More tributes have flooded in for a former soldier whose death while walking his dog close to a barracks near Tidworth sparked a murder investigation.
64-year-old Graham Pennycook has been remembered as a “true gentleman”, Royal Engineer and mentor by scores of people who knew him.
The former serviceman died while out walking his dog, Sky, in the Perham Down area of Wiltshire on Thursday 24 September.
His body was discovered in woodland near the polo field following a concern for welfare report, with Wiltshire Police subsequently launching a murder investigation.
Since news of his death emerged, numerous former British Army colleagues have shared memories of Graham and the impact he had on their lives and careers.
Marcus Hackney, who served with Graham, said: “When you say he was one of the nicest people I ever met…. It’s always taken as a cliche statement… BUT…. Graham was this person.
“Serving in the army with him as one of our superiors was an immense privilege.”
He added: “a man that people looked up too and wanted to be like. Kind professional and man who had manners and a huge amount of integrity.”
Carl Peter described Graham as a mentor who provided guidance during his own military career.
He said: “Graham was a mighty man, but humble in his approach. He was a true mentor to me at 22 before and after I was commissioned and I absorbed all his guidance and advice like a sponge.
“There are many good men in the Army but Graham stood taller than most of them.”
Andrew Barr said: “Graham was a superb soldier and officer. I was blessed to serve alongside him and to walk in his mighty footsteps. He always put others first.”
Mark Paul, who served with Graham in 26 Engineer Regiment, recalled the support and advice he received from him.
He said: “Still in shock, Graham was my QM when I was SSM in 26 Engineer Regiment and he always had time for a chat, no matter how busy he was. He offered genuine guidance, support and advice, and played a bigger part in helping me get to where I am today than he probably ever realised.
“A truly genuine, kind and respected man who will be deeply missed. My thoughts are with his family, friends and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. RIP my friend.”
Neil Pompey FC Gray said Graham was someone he looked up to as a junior non-commissioned officer.
He said: “Graham Pennycook was someone who I looked up to as a JNCO and I was grateful our career paths crossed several times before I left the Corps, professional, dedicated and incredibly grounded in bridging the gap between being an Warrant Officer or Officer and the Junior Ranks, rest easy Sir and it was my pleasure to serve alongside you, the Army v Navy will never be the same without you.”
George Nightingale also remembered Graham as a role model during his military career.
He said: “It was a privilege to have known and worked with Graham. He was such a calm and considerate person and managed to get the best out of those around him.
“I held him in high regard as he was a great role model and it was a pleasure to serve alongside him.”
Tributes have also come from people who knew Graham after his military service.
Rob Jackson said: “Very sad and shocked to see this news. I worked with Graham at Landmarc. He was always friendly, well respected and loved his spaniel. Thoughts with his family.”
Aaron Sylvester, who works at Jim’s Barbershop in Andover and said he used to trim Graham’s beard, wrote: “I am shocked and saddened to here of the passing of one of my customers Such a shame he was a lovely man and a true gentleman and he will be missed my thoughts go to his family and friends a this sad time.may he rest in peace”
Graham’s wife Jacky previously described the shock of losing him as “devastating” for his family and friends.
She asked those who knew him to raise a glass or cup and remember “Our Graham”.
Wiltshire Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding Graham’s death.
The force is asking anyone who was driving in Ludgershall between 9am and 6pm that day to check for dashcam footage, including a map of the area of interest.
Detectives are particularly interested in footage captured on Somme Road, the unnamed road bordering the polo field, Shoddesden Lane and the A3026 through Ludgershall.
Police want motorists to make contact even if they do not believe their recordings contain anything significant.
Detective Chief Inspector Phil Walker, of the Major Crime Investigation Team, said: “If you were driving in the area on Thursday 24th September and have dash camera footage, it’s vital that you contact us.
“Even if you think there is nothing important on your recording, we need to hear from you. Your camera recording may hold vital information to assist us in this murder investigation.”
He continued: “We would like you to upload the information to our dedicated website. If you are unsure how to do this, please provide your contact information and someone from our team can help you.”
