British soldiers killed by blast in Afghanistan

Nov 13 2008 by James Cartledge, Birmingham Mail

TWO British Royal Marines were killed in an explosion in southern Afghanistan, the Ministry of Defence confirmed today.

The pair, from UK Landing Force Command Support Group, were taking part in a joint patrol with soldiers from Afghan security forces when their vehicle was struck by an explosive device in the Garmsir district of Southern Helmand at 4.47pm local time yesterday.

Commander Paula Rowe, of Task Force Helmand, said: “This is a tragic blow to us all in the task force, but our loss is nothing compared to that of their families and loved ones.”

Next of kin have been informed. The pair were operating as part of Task Force Helmand’s Information Exploitation Group, which is responsible for gathering information to gain an advantage over enemy forces.

The Marines were on a routine patrol and the cause of the explosion was not yet known.

Brigadier General Richard Blanchette of the Nato-led International Security Assistance Force said: “Our deepest sympathies go out to their family, friends and fellow soldiers.”