Dear All,

I think by now that most readers will have identified that Mick was divorced and re married.  Many of those who use the site are in the same situation and I  think all will agree that this is nothing unusual.

Please be aware that there are two bereaved families going through the grieving process that need our support as a regiment. 

Mick made his choices in life as we all do.

I respect his choices and will continue to work with representatives of both families - who are absolutely united in ensuring that his passing is observed with dignity and due ceremony.

As his friends we should be united in our support for ALL those who his life touched as there is no measurement for grief.

It is grief.

My sincere condolences to family and friends of Mick Rattigan.

Even though it is in excess of 35 years since I last saw Mick,  I remember him as a very humorous and cheerful man.

Mick was 2ic of one my sections in 2Pl A Coy during our first Belfast Tour where,  sadly, we  lost Cpl Ian Morrill within days of our arrival. Mick stepped into the breech immediately and completed the rest of the tour as Section Commander.

He could always be relied upon under the most trying circumstances and, despite his "bobbing and weaving"!!, he was a man of the utmost integrity and loyalty.

I  hope his family is able to take some comfort from the many tributes that have already been made.

Mick Taylor

mike@createdesignandprint.co.uk

Val Rattigan, Micks wife from 1966-2006 .                                                                                                                                 I would very much like to thank all our old Green Jacket friends for their messages and kind words, for Mick.
 Mick was not just a soldier but a Green Jacket through and through, immensely proud to be one of the chosen men.
 Thank you also for your messages of condolence for myself and our three children, David, Richard and Karen.
 REST IN PEACE MICK X

my condolencies to micks family,i knew him well and will remember him with warmth and respect,top man.

 Sorry I'am late, Just found out.
 All thats been said is true of Mick and could'ent pay him any better complimants.

RIP Mate,
 From a Mate.

I am truly saddened to hear about the death of Mick. I bumped into Karen today in Canterbury and not seeing her for nearly twenty years. I asked how Mick was and she told me of his passing. I owe much to Mick and his mentoring. Years ago, when i was thinking of leaving the army back in 1988, he managed to use his contacts and get me transferred into 2 RGJ. Then some five years later, when I was thinking of putting myself forward for selection, but was not sure if I had what it took to pass? He gave me a 'Mick style interview without coffee' and told me to man up and go for it..! Needless to say, through the fear of failing and having to then face Mick, I passed! I then spent the next 5 years serving up in Hereford and being very happy. 

He was an inspiration and a character that I will never forget..!

May you rest in peace Mick..! I am so sad you have left us..! You will be missed but never forgotten..!