Private Tait was enlisted into the Army on 3 July 2007 and commenced recruit training at the Infantry Training Centre, Catterick on 13 July 2007. He was due to join The Royal Regiment of Scotland and was being trained in the Royal Regiment of Scotland Company of the 1st Infantry Training Battalion.

Private Tait was on a night exercise on Wednesday 8 August 2007 when he was severely injured in a helicopter accident in which two RAF personnel also died. He died of his injuries in hospital on 10 August 2007.

A full investigation into the circumstances surrounding this tragedy is currently being conducted by both the civil police and the military authorities.

Private Tait’s platoon commander, Captain Rob Earle, of The Royal Regiment of Scotland, described him as:

"A recruit who was progressing well with his training and growing in professional confidence. Sean was a positive and well liked member of Assaye Platoon. He never lost his Glasgow sense of humour as he adapted to Army life; a quality that served him well on the Combat Infantryman’s Course. He will be sorely missed by all in his Platoon."

His Company Commander, Major Neil Wright, of The Royal Regiment of Scotland, remembers Private Tait as:

"A committed and enthusiastic young recruit who had made a really good start with his training on the Combat Infantryman’s Course. His loss has been a real blow not only to his Platoon but also to the Company as a whole. We have lost a real friend and professional colleague."

Private Tait’s Commanding Officer, Lt Col Mike Thornton, of The Rifles, described him as:

"A young man who had made a real impact in his short time with Assaye Platoon. His sharp sense of humour and gritty approach to Infantry training are just the qualities we need from today’s young infantry soldier; he had a bright future.

"Whilst his loss has been a hard blow to all of us here at the 1st ITB, it pales into insignificance when compared to the loss that his family must now contend with. Our thoughts and prayers are very much with them and his loved ones at this difficult time."