JUST an ordinary guy doing his job – that is how Colchester soldier Jan Fourie sees his part in saving the life of a badly-injured colleague in Afghanistan.

The South African-born lance corporal, of 2 Para, was a member of the patrols platoon who rushed to help sniper Lance Corporal Tom Neathway after he was caught in a boobytrap blast.

Under unrelenting fire from Taliban fighters, the platoon medic used tourniquets to patch up his friend’s wounds.

Then, with communications down, he held him during a two-kilometre quadbike scramble to a military helicopter.

The 26-year-old’s skill, courage and determination are being recognised through a nomination in the Sun newspaper’s new military awards.

The winners, chosen by a dozen top national and defence figures, will receive their awards tomorrow.