WHEN Lance Corporal David Radband found British soldiers under heavy fire in Afghanistan, he knew what he had to do.

The 24-year-old, from Bampton, led the men through a barrage of bullets and cleared Taliban fighters from their positions – without the loss of a single life in his section.

Although one officer from another regiment died in the fight, L Cpl Radband’s bravery significantly reduced the chance of further casualties.

L Cpl Radband – then a private – has now been rewarded with a Mention in Dispatches following a nomination by the Commanding Officer of the Welsh Guards.

Last night, his parents spoke of their pride for their “amazing” son.

Although part of the Parachute Regiment, L Cpl Radband operated with the Welsh Guards from June to September last year.

He is now in Cardiff preparing for his third tour of duty in Afghanistan.

Dad Steve Radband, 48, from Fox Close, said: “He is a very modest lad.

“Although we speak to him regularly, we had no idea this had happened until his citation came through. I’m extremely proud of him and everything he is doing out in Afghanistan.”

Mr and Mrs Radband have hung the Parachute Regiment flag in their back garden to salute the bravery of their son and his colleagues.

Mum Sarah Radband, 45, the clerk of Bampton Parish Council, said: “Of course it’s worrying having David out there. The Parachute Regiment has lost a few lads, a number of whom we knew, and it can be difficult.

“But he is doing the job he loves and I am so proud of him and the amazing job he is doing. He means everything to me.”

L Cpl Radband’s citation says his “professionalism, stoical attitude and numerous acts of bravery were recognised and highly regarded” by the Welsh Guards.

Bampton has been called the “most loyal village in Oxfordshire” because of the support it offers servicemen and women.

In a population of only 2,000, at least 14 families have sons or daughters on active service.

On May 14 2009, Marine Jason Mackie, 21, was killed when his vehicle hit a roadside bomb in the Basharan area of Helmand.

Villagers rallied around his mother Lee Mackie, who moved to the village in 2002, and even raised £5,000 for the War Memorial to be restored and have Marine Mackie’s name added.

L Cpl Radband is also close friends with Cpl Tom Neathway, who aims to return to Afghanistan in January despite losing three limbs in a bomb blast.

Mr Radband said: “Tom is an inspirational man. He is admired by so many servicemen and his desire to go back to Afghanistan is incredible.”