The Commanding Officer of the Royal Marines unit based in Arbroath has paid tribute to the member of 45 Commando who was found dead in the Angus glens on Friday.
Luke Ireland, from Monifieth, was discovered in Glen Clova around 24 hours after he had indicated to his family that he was going for a run at nearby Loch Brandy.
Lt Col Dan Cheesman describedthe 20-year-old as an “exceptional” marine who would be “forever remembered” by the unit.
He said: “We are deeply shocked and saddened by the early death of Royal Marine Luke Ireland in the mountains of Glen Clova.
“He excelled in his role as a general purpose machine gunner, revelledin taking part in 45Commando’s recentexercise in California and was looking forward to deploying to Belize toconduct jungle training in the new year.
“Luke’s insatiable sense of humour, enthusiasm, popularity and moralcourage made him an exceptional Royal Marines Commando.
“He will be forever remembered. His loss is a significant blow to 45Commando and the Royal Marines.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with MarineIreland’s family and friends at this difficult time.”
Mr Ireland’s disappearance sparked a searchoperation through the night involving around 250people.
The search was calledoff shortly after 1pm onFriday after his body was found.
It is understood that Mr Ireland left the hotelwearing a running vest and shorts and it is thought he faced overnight temperatures of 4C and -11C with wind chill.
A spokesman for Police Scotland said the death was “not being treated as suspicious”.