UK death toll in Afghanistan rises to 289
Updated on 31 May 2010
Tributes are being paid to the latest British troop to die in Afghanistan, a marine from 40 Commando Royal Marines who was hit by an explosion while on foot patrol.
The Ministry of Defence has confirmed the marine was killed on Sunday night near Sangin in northern Helmand. His family have been informed.
Lieutenant Colonel James Carr-Smith, spokesman for Task Force Helmand, said: "It is with sadness I must inform you that a marine from 40 Commando Royal Marines was killed last night in an explosion near Sangin in northern Helmand.
"He was conducting a foot patrol in order to further develop the understanding of the local area when he was struck by an explosion.
"His bravery and selfless commitment will not be forgotten. He will be greatly missed and we will remember him."
The announcement follows the death of Corporal Stephen Curley, 26, from 40 Commando Royal Marines, in a similar incident last Wednesday.
He died on the same day as Gunner Zak Cusack, 20, from 4th Regiment Royal Artillery who was killed in a firefight with the Taliban in Helmand Province.
The number of British troops who have now died in operations in Afghanistan since the mission began in 2001 stands at 289.
