Troops 'paid the ultimate price'
Updated on 09 June 2008
Gordon Brown marks the grim milestone of 100 British military deaths in Afghanistan.
Gordon Brown has today paid tribute to British troops who've died in Afghanistan, as a suicide blast brought the total to 100. The prime minister insisted that they had helped make progress in moving a lawless country towards democracy.
The three members of 2nd Battalion of the Parachute Regiment were killed yesterday by an explosive device while on foot patrol in the Upper Sangin Valley in Helmand province.
Next of kin have been informed - and they're expected to be named later today.
Suicide bomb attack
The three soldiers from 2nd Battalion the Parachute Regiment were on a routine foot patrol in the Upper Sangin Valley in Helmand Province on Sunday when a suicide bomber struck.
A Ministry of Defence spokesman said: "Four soldiers were injured in the attack and were evacuated to the medical facility at Camp Bastion.
"Sadly, one soldier was pronounced dead on arrival and despite the best efforts of the medical team, two of the soldiers died as a result of their wounds.
"A fourth soldier is currently receiving treatment for his wounds and is expected to make a good recovery."
'Every one of those deaths is a tragedy. Nothing can ever compensate for the loss felt by their loved ones and to them all I extend my deepest sympathies.'Air Chief Marshal Sir Jock Stirrup
The next of kin of all the soldiers have been informed and they have asked for a 24-hour period of grace before more details are released.
The deaths mean 100 British service personnel have now died since operations began in November 2001 - 74 as a result of hostile action and the others from illness, accidents, non-combat injuries or other causes.
Chief of the Defence Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Jock Stirrup, said: "As you know, 100 brave and professional servicemen have now died in Afghanistan. They laid their lives down for their country and their comrades.
"Every one of those deaths is a tragedy. Nothing can ever compensate for the loss felt by their loved ones and to them all I extend my deepest sympathies.
"I only hope that the terrible hardship that they have been asked to bear can be eased by the certainty that in Afghanistan our forces are engaged in a most worthy and noble endeavour. And they are making good progress."
Secretary of State for Defence Des Browne said: "I would like to express my deepest sympathy for the family, comrades and friends of the three soldiers killed in Afghanistan this weekend.
"My thoughts at this time are also with the loved ones of each and every one of the 100 courageous members of the British Armed Forces who have now lost their lives in Afghanistan."
