Bullet-proof helmet saves marine’s life

ROYAL Marine Commando Eric Walderman has a reason to smile.

Yesterday he cheated death after taking four shots in his bullet-proof helmet.

Marine Walderman's life was saved by his tough Kevlar helmet after he was caught in the gun sights of enemy Iraqis during a savage firefight in Umm Qasr.

Yesterday, his relieved partner Lindsey Robinson, 25, at home with their son Danny, two, said: "I can't believe it. He is so lucky to be alive. He's the luckiest man out there. I'm just so glad he's still alive."

The 25-year-old's incredible escape came as the Marines drove the last Iraqi fighters out of the port town.

The four bullets ripped through the outer camouflage of the standard-issue helmet, but were stopped by the ultra-tough protective Kevlar shell.

If they had been just an inch lower, the young father would have joined the list of British casualties.

The former welder achieved a life-long ambition by joining the Marines three years ago.

After 30 weeks' training, he passed out on March 27, 2000, receiving the famous green beret.

He was also awarded the Commando Medal, the second-highest commendation for new Marines, for being an outstanding new recruit.

He went to the Gulf on January 15.

He lives in Fleetwood, Lancashire, with his girlfriend of eight years Lindsey, a hotel receptionist, and their son.

She said: "I just want to hold him, I want him to come home now but he's out there until the job is finished.

"We wanted to get married this year and talked about a wedding in Mexico but the war took over."

His father, also called Eric, and brother Karl, 23, a labourer, as well as the rest of his family and friends, would be glad to see him back home.

His mother Brenda said: "I'm shocked. I just want him home. I'm happy but a bit devastated by this."

After passing out, her son had a two-year posting with the Royal Fleet Protection, guarding submarines at Faslane.

Most recently, he spent five months on tour in Dubai before being sent to the Gulf.