Fallen SAS soldiers' families honoured

The families of two Special Air Service soldiers killed in Afghanistan were presented with the New Zealand Memorial Cross on 31st March 2012.

The Memorial Crosses were presented to the families of Corporal Doug Grant and Lance Corporal Leon Smith by Prime Minister John Key at a private ceremony at SAS headquarters at Papakura Military Camp. The medal is given to family members of personnel who lose their lives during, or as a result of, operational service outside New Zealand.

Grant was shot by the Taliban while attempting to free captives held in the British Counsel offices in Kabul on 19th August 2011. Smith was killed on 28th September 2011 after being struck by a Taliban bullet while securing a compound in Kabul.

Click here for full story

US Marine Corporal Roberto Cazarez

24-year-old US Marine Corporal Roberto Cazarez, died while conducting combat operations in Helmand province on 30th March 2012.

Cpl. Cazarez, from Harbor City, a suburb of Los Angeles, served with the 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division, based at Camp Pendleton, California.

More information to follow.

82nd Airborne Spc. David Taylor

US Army Spc. David W. Taylor, serving with the 82nd Airborne Division, was killed on 29th March 2012 in Kandahar province as a result of an accident at an ammunition supply point.

20-year-old Spc. Taylor was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, based at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. This was his first deployment to Afghanistan. A news release stated that he was helping to move ammunition when some of the rounds exploded.

He enlisted in the Army in March 2010 and joined the 508th in October the same year. More information to follow.

US Army Pfc. Johnathon Davis killed in action in Kandahar

US 82nd Airborne Pfc. Johnathon F. Davis, from Griffin, Georgia, was killed in action on 29th March 2012 from enemy small arms fire in Kandahar province.

20-year-old Pfc. Davis, serving with the 4th Squadron, 73rd Cavalry Regiment, based at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, deployed to Afghanistan in February. He joined the Army in August 2010 as a Cavalry scout.

Relatives of the fallen soldier told news reporters that Pfc. Davis had been shot by a sniper while clearing a rooftop. His widow, Kristen Davis is eight months pregnant with their son Benjamin.

F15 pilot, Captain Francis Imlay killed in accident

USAF F15 pilot, Captain Francis D. Imlay, from Vacaville, California, died on 28th March 2012 from injuries received in an accident involving an F-15 aircraft near a base in Southwest Asia.

31-year-old Capt. Imlay served with the 391st Fighter Squadron, from Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho and was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. He was married with a 4-year-old son and a 2-year-old daughter.

MHAFB Commander Col. Ron Buckley issued the following statement: "Today we mourn the loss of one of our warriors, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and co-workers during this time. He was a true professional and his dedication to the Gunfighter family will not soon be forgotten."

The cause of the accident is being investigated.

US Marine Sergeant Joseph D'Augustine killed in Helmand

29-year-old US Marine Corps Sergeant Joseph D'Augustine, from Waldwick, New Jersey, was killed on 27th March 2012 during a combat operation in Helmand province.

Sgt. D'Augustine was a bomb and mine disposal technician serving with the 8th Engineer Support Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, based at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. The former Waldwick High School graduate had served four overseas combat tours during his career. This was his second deployment to Afghanistan.

According to news reports, Sgt. D’Augustine was due to return home in less than two weeks for his sister's wedding. He leaves his parents Anthony and Patricia, and sisters, Nicole, Jennifer and Michele among other relatives and friends.

US Army Sergeant William Wilson III killed in Paktika

27-year-old US Army Sergeant William R. Wilson III, from Getzville, New York, was killed in Paktika province on 26th March 2012 by an Afghan policeman who shot Sgt. Wilson at a checkpoint.

Sgt. Wilson served with the Germany-based 2nd Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment, 172nd Infantry Brigade. He joined the Army in 2005.

According to his facebook page, Sgt. Wilson attended Williamsville North High School and had recently been home on leave from Afghanistan. He leaves his parents, William and Kim and brothers, Wesley and Jeremy along with many friends and relatives.

Royal Marine Sergeant Luke Taylor killed in Helmand

Royal Marine Sergeant Luke Taylor was one of two British soldiers shot and killed at the main entrance to Lashkar Gah Main Operating Base in Helmand province on Monday, 26th March 2012.

33-year-old Sergeant Taylor, from Bournemouth, joined the Royal Marines in 1997. He had been in Afghanistan for just four weeks. His Commanding Officer said: "Sergeant Taylor epitomised everything positive about the military – he worked hard and played hard and his efforts here in Helmand will not be forgotten."

A colour sergeant from the Royal Marines said: "Luke, you had a Heart of Oak that came with loyalty and a brilliant sense of humour. These are the traits of an inspired father, loving husband, Royal Marine and quality oppo. Stand Easy Royal."

A sergeant from the Royal Marines said: "Luke, a hoofing Bootneck, hoofing bloke, hoofing mate. Always with a smile on your face and the ability to make us all laugh - you will be sorely missed your friend and brother in arms."

Sgt. Taylor married in 2008 and leaves behind his beloved wife, Nicola, and their young son, Roan.

*Due to the nature of Sergeant Taylor's work, the above quotes have been anonymised*

British Army Lance Corporal Michael Foley killed in Helmand

British Army Lance Corporal Michael Foley, of the Adjutant General's Corps (Staff and Personnel Support), was one of two soldiers shot and killed at the main entrance to Lashkar Gah Main Operating Base in Helmand province on Monday, 26th March 2012.

Lance Corporal Foley was born in Burnley, Lancashire. He joined the Army September 2003. He deployed to Afghanistan in September 2011 as a key member of the Task Force Helmand Headquarters Information Hub team. On 26th March, he was manning the front gate as part of the guard force for Main Operating Base, Lashkar Gah, when he and Sergeant Luke Taylor, of the Royal Marines, were killed by a rogue member of the Afghan National Army.

Major BJ Cattermole, Scots Dragoon Guards, Chief of Staff, Headquarters 20th Armoured Brigade, said: "Lance Corporal Foley died protecting his comrades - his final gift of service to the Army and his country, and the ultimate sacrifice by a young commander who epitomised selfless service and dedication throughout his Army career."

Lance Corporal Foley leaves behind his beloved wife, Sophie, and three young children, Calum, Warren and Jake; as well as parents, Craig and Debbie, sister, Lisa and brother, Jordan.

Former US Sheriff's Deputy Jim St. Pierre dies in Afghanistan

51-year-old former US Sheriff’s Deputy Jim St. Pierre died on Saturday 24th March 2012 from a heart attack in Afghanistan.

He had been in the country on a contract with American K-9 Detection Services serving at Camp Leatherneck. He joined the company in 2010 as a Patrol Narcotics Detection Dog Handler with K9 Jowi. 

The company said that he and Jowi had found drugs on numerous occasions during their two years in the country.

French Army Captain Christophe Schnetterle

French Army Captain Christophe Schnetterle, from the 93rd Mountain Artillery Regiment, died in France on 27th March 2012 from injuries he received in January while serving in Afghanistan. 

Captain Schnetterle was seriously wounded in Kapisa during an attack by an Afghan Army soldier on a group of French soldiers 20th January 2012. He had been airlifted to France and died at the Val de Grace hospital in Paris. In the attack, four of his comrades were killed and 14 other soldiers were injured in the attack. 

45 years old, Captain Schnetterle was married with two young girls of 16 and 21 years. He joined the Army in 1986 and was promoted to Captain in 2006. This was his second mission in Afghanistan, deploying in December 2011. He had also previously served in Djibouti, Guyana, Ivory Coast, Martinique and Lebanon.

Nato soldier killed by Afghan policeman

A NATO/ISAF soldier was shot and killed by an Afghan policeman in Paktika province, eastern Afghanistan.  The incident happened yesterday, 26th March 2012 and followed the earlier shooting of two British soldiers.

The victim has been identified as US Army Sergeant William Wilson.

US Army Captain Aaron Istre

US Army Captain Aaron D. Istre, aged 37, died in Kabul on 24th March 2012. The circumstances of his death are being investigated.

Capt. Istre deployed to Afghanistan in December 2011. He had previously served in Iraq.

His awards and decorations include two Meritorious Service Medals, Joint Service Commendation Medal, two Army Commendation Medals, five Army Achievement Medals, Army Good Conduct Medal, two National Defense Service Medals, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal with campaign star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Korean Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Service Medal, Non-commissioned Officers Professional Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, two Overseas Service Ribbon, and NATO Medal.

He joined the military in November 1998 and was assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 13th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary), at Fort Hood since June 2009.

US Army Sgt. Daniel Brown killed by bomb blast in Kandahar

27-year-old US Army Sergeant Daniel J. Brown, from Idaho, was killed in action on 24th March 2012 in Kandahar province, Afghanistan. He died from injuries suffered by a bomb blast.

Sgt. Brown served with the 2nd Battalion, 8th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, based at Fort Carson, Colorado. He deployed to Afghanistan in May 2011. He also served in Iraq from March 2005 to February 2006.

He leaves behind his wife Jordan Brown and their 3-month old twin daughters Mattie and Marlee, his brother Matt, his parents Becky and Jerry Brown and his grandparents Lee and Barbara Urie.

Two British soldiers killed by Afghan Army soldier

Two British soldiers have been killed today (26 March 2012) by an Afghan National Army soldier at the Lashkar Gah base in Helmand province, southern Afghanistan.

The two servicemen, Royal Marine Sergeant Luke Taylor and Lance Corporal Michael Foley from the Adjutant General's Corps, were serving as part of Task Force Helmand when they were shot and killed at the main entrance to the base.

The gunman was killed as troops reacted to the shooting.

Bomb blast in Kandahar kills nine

At least nine people, including a NATO soldier, have been killed by a bomb that exploded in southern Afghanistan.

The blast occurred as a joint Afghan and NATO unit patrolled through Arghandab district of Kandahar province late on Saturday, Shah Mohammad, the district administrator, told press.

The Afghan dead included three police officers, four members of the government-sponsored militia force "local police", and one translator, Mohammad said.

Source: Aljazeera

Italian Army Sergeant Michele Silvestri killed in mortar attack

33-year-old Italian Army Sergeant Michele Silvestri, serving with the 21st Engineer Regiment, was killed in action on Saturday 24th March 2012 when his unit came under mortar fire in the Gulistan district of Farah province. Five other soldiers were wounded in the attack.

Sgt. Silvestri was born in Naples and lived in Monte di Procida. He was married with an 8-year-old child. He joined the Army in 1997 and had deployed several times to Afghanistan, Iraq and Kosovo. He had been in Afghanistan just ten days into a six-month tour.

Italian soldier killed, five wounded in mortar attack

An Italian soldier, Sergeant Michele Silvestri, has been killed in a mortar attack in western Afghanistan's Farah Province.

Italian defence chiefs said that the attack took place early evening on Saturday 24th March at a Forward Operating Base in the southeastern district of Gulistan. Five Italian soldiers were injured. The wounded were evacuated by helicopter to a military field hospital.

US Army Specialist Dennis Weichel Jr.

29-year-old Rhode Island National Guard Specialist Dennis P. Weichel Jr., from Providence, was killed on 22nd March in a vehicle accident in Laghman province.

Spc. Weichel joined the National Guard in 2001. He served with the East Greenwich-based 1st Battalion, 143rd Infantry Regiment, 56th Troop Command which deployed earlier this month. He had also served in Iraq in 2005.

A Pawtucket resident, Spc. Weichel is survived by three children and his parents.

French soldier dies in eastern Afghanistan - 22 March 2012

A French soldier has died of non-battle injuries in Afghanistan's northeastern province of Kapisa.

Afghan sources told Press TV that the soldier died of non-combat related injuries in Kapisa province, located some 800 kilometers (497 miles) northeast of the country's capital Kabul, on Thursday 22nd March 2012.

The French government has not yet confirmed the incident. More information to follow.

Posthumous Bravery Medal for Para who died saving friend

The family of British Parachute Regiment Private Martin Bell, killed in Afghanistan while saving the life of a wounded colleague, have received the George Medal on his behalf from Her Majesty The Queen.

Private Bell ignored an order not to move from the safety of his position to help an injured colleague. His actions saved the life of the other soldier but a hidden bomb took the life of Private Bell.

The George Medal is usually a civilian award, but can be given to members of the armed forces for "acts for which military honours would not usually be granted"; for example, acts of great bravery when not in the presence of the enemy.

Pte Bell's citation read: "Judging the needs of the critically injured casualty greater than his own life, and in an act of supreme selflessness, Private Bell ran to the casualty in order to render him immediate aid."

Click here to read full report on SkyNews

Captain Rupert Bowers killed in action in Helmand

British Army Captain Rupert William Michael Bowers was killed in Afghanistan on 21st March 2012. He served with the 2nd Battalion The Mercian Regiment (Worcesters and Foresters) (2 MERCIAN), and was attached to 2nd Battalion The Rifles (2 RIFLES).

Captain Bowers was leading a patrol in the Nahr-e Saraj district in Helmand province to clear a position from the threat of insurgents when he was killed by the explosion from an insurgent bomb.

This was his third deployment to Afghanistan. In 2007, while in Afghanistan, he was 'Mentioned in Dispatches' for his actions during a complex insurgent ambush.

Lieutenant Colonel Colin R Marks (Commanding Officer, 2 MERCIAN) said Captain Bowers was "a gifted officer who excelled in the field and was happiest when leading men in battle."

Warrant Officer Class 1 (Regimental Sergeant Major) Martyn Chatterley said: "Captain Rupert Bowers was a larger than life character with an immense personality that impressed the soldiers and officers who served alongside him, always there with a quick-witted one-liner that brought a smile to everyone's face.

"Despite being young, his leadership and command presence was impressive. Never one to sit back and wait, he was a professional who was brave to the end. He will be sorely missed by all in 2 MERCIAN but will never be forgotten. ‘Stand Firm and Strike Hard'."

Captain Rupert Bowers leaves behind his beloved wife, Victoria, and his newly-born son, Hugo, as well as parents, Patrick and Jane, and sister, Juliet.

US Army Sergeant Jamie Jarboe dies from injuries received in Afghanistan

US Army Sergeant Jamie Jarboe, age 27, died on 21st March 2012 from wounds he received in Afghanistan last year.


Sgt. Jarboe was on a foot patrol in Afghanistan in April 2011 when he was shot by a sniper. The bullet penetrated his spine and he was left paralyzed from the chest down.


He was serving with the 4th Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Heavy Brigade Combat Team of the 1st Infantry Division at the time.


The married father of two had more than 100 surgical operations since being shot. He arrived home in Topeka, Kansas, five weeks ago to a hero's welcome and was due for more surgery.

British soldier killed in action - 21 March 2012

A British soldier serving with the 2nd Battalion The Mercian Regiment (2 MERCIAN) was killed in Afghanistan on 21st March 2012 after being caught in a bomb blast while on a joint patrol in Nahr-e Saraj district, Helmand province.

The soldier, an officer, has been named as Captain Rupert Bowers.

Home at last - tears as six British Army KIA repatriated to Britain

The bodies of six soldiers killed in a bomb blast in Afghanistan are repatriated to the UK.

Praise for work of fallen Bomb Disposal expert

An inquest into the death of a highly decorated bomb disposal expert in Afghanistan has heard how his work helped bring down a notorious bomb maker.

Staff Sergeant Brett Linley was dealing with his third IED of the day when it detonated and killed him:

COMBAT STRESS - The Enemy Within

CombatStress is a charity dedicated to helping veterans overcome PTSD. The video below movingly shows the effects PTSD can have on someone. Please take a moment to watch it. Please also visit the CombatStress website for more information about the charity.

Turkish soldiers killed in helicopter crash identified

A Turkish military aircraft transported the bodies of twelve military personnel killed in a helicopter crash, back to Turkey in the early hours of 18th March. On arrival at Etimesgut Military Airport, the bodies were transferred to Forensic Medicine Institution at Kecioren. Turkish officials have released the names of the crash victims:

Major Mithat Çolak
Major Şükür Bağdatlı
Major Serkan Dogan
Major Ismail Cem Yakinlar
Captain Adil Erdogan
Captain Ilker Aydin
Lieutenant Murat Yildiz
Lieutenant Tahsin Barutçu
Lieutenant Okan Melikoğlu
Sgt. Major Salih Helvacı
Sgt. Major Mehmet Akbas
Sergeant Onay Vurucu

Turkish military fatalities in Afghanistan

US Army 2nd Lieutenant Clovis Ray

US Army Second Lt. Clovis T. Ray was killed in action on 15th March 2012 when a bomb exploded during a patrol in Kunar province. He leaves behind his wife Shannon and 5-year-old son Dean Aaron.

2Lt. Ray served with the Hawaii-based 2nd Battalion, 35th Infantry Regiment. This was his first tour of duty in Afghanistan and he was due home next month. He joined the Army in April 2010 and deployed in December last year.

2Lt. Ray's awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal (posthumous), Purple Heart (posthumous), two Army Commendation Medals, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Bronze Service Star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, NATO Medal (posthumous), Combat Infantry Badge and Parachutist Badge.

His father, Bob Ray, told MySanAntonio, that his son had given up a lucrative career as an investment banker to join the Army. He had worked for Wells Fargo in San Antonio, where he lived for many years. "I had no idea until he called and said, ‘Dad, I've joined the Army, I want to serve my country," his father said.

Twelve Turkish soldiers killed in helicopter crash

The Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that twelve military personnel were killed when their helicopter crashed on Friday 16th March 2012.

The helicopter was on a mission for NATO forces when it went down near Kabul, the Turkish military said in a statement. "Twelve of our military personnel on board were martyred," it said.

Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said there were officers and non-commissioned officers on board.

There was no enemy activity in the area at the time of the crash, according to NATO.

The aircraft went down in a residential area on the outskirts of Kabul, killing four Afghan civilians on the ground.

More details to follow.

Bomb blast kills NATO soldier in eastern Afghanistan

An ISAF/NATO service member died in eastern Afghanistan on 15th March 2012 as a result of an improvised explosive device injury.

The victim was later identified as US Army Second Lt. Clovis T. Ray.

Repatriation of six British soldiers killed in Afghanistan

The bodies of six British soldiers killed in a bomb blast in Afghanistan on 6th March arrived at RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire on Tuesday 20th March. Click here to view video of the repatriation.

The soldiers killed were Cpl Jake Hartley, Pte Anthony Frampton, Pte Christopher Kershaw, Pte Daniel Wade and Pte Daniel Wilford from 3rd Battalion the Yorkshire Regiment and Sgt Nigel Coupe from 1st Battalion The Duke of Lancaster's Regiment.

The plane will land at around 1:30pm and the cortege will pass by the Memorial Garden between 4:30pm and 5.00pm, reaching the John Radcliffe Hospital at around 6.00pm.

Norton Way will be closed from approx 1.00pm, whilst Station Road, Brize Norton, will be closed for approximately 10 minutes once the cortege leaves Britannia Gate at RAF Brize Norton.

There will be road closures in place at the Marston Ferry Road / Cherwell Drive Junction, Marston Road / Cherwell Drive Junction, and by mini roundabout by the entrance to the John Radcliffe Hospital. Please expect severe delays in this area whilst the road closures are in operation.

Please note that times are subject to change at short notice. Should the date and times change, we will update the information here.

Turkish Helicopter crash near Kabul kills all on board

A helicopter of the Turkish military has crashed into houses on the outskirts of Kabul, killing all on board, according to Afghan police.

Turkey's foreign ministry confirmed the crash but declined to give further details. "We confirm that a Turkish helicopter crashed in Kabul according to initial findings," a ministry diplomat said. The official did not release any information on the death toll or the cause of the crash.

Afghan authorities were trying to determine the nationalities of the people who were on the helicopter when it crashed, Kabul criminal investigation department head Mohammad Zahir told news reporters.

Rescue workers were searching through the wreckage, in the Bagrami district of Kabul province, to determine whether there were any more casualties.

The Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that twelve military personnel were killed.

US Army Spc. Daquane Rivers

21-year-old US Army Specialist Daquane D. Rivers, from Florida, died in Paktika province on 14th March 2012 from non-combat related injuries.

Spc. Rivers served with the 2nd Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment, 172nd Infantry Brigade, based at Grafenwoehr, Germany.

More information to follow.

ISAF service member dies eastern Afghanistan - 14 March

A ISAF/NATO service member died as a result of a non-battle related injury in eastern Afghanistan on 14th March 2012.

The US soldier was later named as 21-year-old Spc. Daquane D. Rivers

US Army Staff Sergeant Jesse Grindey

30-year-old US Army Staff Sgt. Jesse J. Grindey, serving with the 287th Military Police Company, 97th Military Police Battalion, 89th Military Police Brigade, died on 12th March 2012 in Kandahar province.

SSgt Grindey, from Hazel Green, Wisconsin, joined the Army in 2002 and served in Iraq, Korea and Japan. He deployed to Afghanistan last December. The circumstances of his death in Afghanistan have not yet been officially released.

His awards include the Army Commendation Medal with five oak leaf clusters, the Army Good Conduct Medal with three oak leaf clusters, Iraqi Campaign Medal with two campaign stars, Army Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Korea Defense Service Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon with three stars, the Non-Commissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon and the Army Service Ribbon.

SSgt Grindey leaves his father Richard, mother Sara, his wife Mary, 3-year-old son Jesse Jr. and 2-year-old daughter Joanna.

British Army Sergeant Nigel Coupe killed in action in Helmand

33-year-old British Army Sergeant Nigel Coupe, from Lytham Saint Annes, Lancashire, was one of six British soldiers killed in action on 6th March 2012 when the Warrior AFV he was in struck a huge bomb during a patrol in Helmand Province.

The senior Non-commissioned Officer served with the 1st Battalion The Duke of Lancaster's Regiment, and was attached to 3rd Battalion The Yorkshire Regiment as a Warrior Sergeant in 7 Platoon, Corunna Company. He joined the Army in January 1996 and was enlisted into The Queen's Lancashire Regiment which subsequently became 1st Battalion The Duke of Lancaster's Regiment.

Lieutenant Colonel Nicholas Wood, Commanding Officer, 1st Battalion The Duke of Lancaster's Regiment, said: "Sergeant Nigel Coupe was quite simply an outstanding soldier who epitomised all that a sergeant from The Duke of Lancaster's Regiment should be.

"Professional, courageous and utterly dedicated to his job, he was highly-regarded by all who worked with him. Those who had the pleasure to spend time with him whether in the back of his Warrior, in the mess, or out in the field, were touched by his humour, his kindness and his willingness to help others. Everyone who knew him wanted to be with him. He was completely selfless."

Sgt. Coupe leaves behind his beloved wife Natalie, and two children, Ella and Jasmine, mother Elaine, father Alan, sister Linda and grandfather Roy.

British Army Corporal Luke Hartley killed in action in Helmand

20-year-old British Army Corporal Jake Hartley, from Dewsbury, was one of six British soldiers killed in action on 6th March 2012 when the Warrior AFV he was in struck a huge bomb during a patrol in Helmand Province.

He joined the 3rd Battalion The Yorkshire Regiment in December 2008 and his potential was immediately recognised. Corporal Hartley had a very bright future in the Army and he was already promoting well ahead of his years, which is testament to his soldiering ability.

Major Edward Colver, Officer Commanding Corunna Company, 3rd Battalion The Yorkshire Regiment, said: "Corporal Hartley was quite simply one of the best Non-Commissioned Officers I have ever had the privilege of working with. From the moment I met him on exercise on the prairies of Canada I knew he was a star of the future."

Cpl. Hartley leaves behind his mother and stepfather, Nathalie and Mark, brother Ethan and uncle and best friend, Luke.

British Army Private Anthony Frampton killed in action in Helmand

20-year-old British Army Private Anthony Frampton, from Huddersfield, was one of six British soldiers killed in action on 6th March 2012 when the Warrior AFV he was in struck a huge bomb during a patrol in Helmand Province.

He joined the Army in January 2009 and joined the 3rd Battalion The Yorkshire Regiment at Warminster in August 2009. In January 2010 he deployed to the Falkland Islands. On his return, he joined the Light Platoon, Somme Company. It was here that he displayed his natural physical fitness and amazing character. Fit, robust and intelligent he soon completed training to use the Javelin missile system.

Lieutenant Colonel Zac Stenning, Commanding Officer, 3rd Battalion The Yorkshire Regiment, said: "Private Anthony Frampton was a unique young man. Fit, carefree, and always the life and soul of his Platoon, he was a true legend amongst his peers. A thoroughly likeable young man, he could motivate and encourage the entire Battalion with his cheekiness and smile."

Pvt. Frampton leaves behind his mother and stepfather, Margaret and Martin, his father Gary, sisters, Gemma and Nicola, great uncle Pat and extended family.

British Army Private Christopher Kershaw killed in action in Helmand

19-year-old British Army Private Christopher Kershaw, from Bradford, was one of six British soldiers killed in action on 6th March 2012 when the Warrior AFV he was in struck a huge bomb during a patrol in Helmand Province.

He joined the 3rd Battalion The Yorkshire Regiment in September 2011 and was immediately put on a Warrior driving cadre. He was an extremely effective Light Machine Gun gunner and was subsequently selected to fill this role on operations. He proved himself, in a very short time, to be an excellent soldier and a great friend to many in the Company.

His mother Monica paid the following tribute: "Chris - our hero. He loved anything to do with the Army from the age of 5 years old. He lived the dream until the end. God bless, Chris, love you loads, Mum."

Lieutenant Colonel Zac Stenning, Commanding Officer, 3rd Battalion The Yorkshire Regiment, said: "Private Christopher Kershaw was a fiercely fit young man who thrived on soldiering. His natural love of the outdoors shone through in his personal and professional life. Given this passion and his continuous desire to educate himself, he already stood out amongst his peers as a Corporal of the future. We have lost today a true Yorkshire Warrior. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family."

Pvt. Kershaw leaves behind his parents Brian and Monica, and sister Sarah Louise.

British Army Private Daniel Wilford killed in action in Helmand

21-year-old British Army Private Daniel Wilford, from Huddersfield, was one of six British soldiers killed in action on 6th March 2012 when the Warrior AFV he was in struck a huge bomb during a patrol in Helmand Province.

Pvt. Wilford joined 3rd Battalion The Yorkshire Regiment in April 2010. He deployed to Canada as a Warrior Gunner in June 2011 before deploying to Afghanistan in February 2012.

Major Edward Colver, Officer Commanding Corunna Company, 3rd Battalion, The Yorkshire Regiment, said: "Private Wilford joined Corunna Company in June 2010. A quiet unassuming character he went about his daily business in a professional and competent manner. He was an exceptional Warrior gunner, it was often noted how proficient he was in the turret and his calmness put many a commander to shame. He was hugely popular amongst the lads and will be sorely missed by Corunna Company, his comrades and his friends."

Pvt. Wilford leaves behind his mother and stepfather, Diane and Paul, his brother Alex and his grandparents.

British Army Private Daniel Wade killed in action in Helmand

20-year-old British Army Private Daniel Wade, from Warrington, was one of six British soldiers killed in action on 6th March 2012 when the Warrior AFV he was in struck a huge bomb during a patrol in Helmand Province.

Pvt. Wade served with the 3rd Battalion The Yorkshire Regiment and had joined the regiment 12 months ago. He was expecting a baby girl with his fiancée Emma Hickman when he embarked on his first tour of Afghanistan.

Lieutenant Colonel Zac Stenning, Commanding Officer, 3rd Battalion The Yorkshire Regiment, said: "Private Daniel Wade was a new young soldier in this family Battalion. A Cheshire lad in a Yorkshire regiment, Dan arrived keen and energetic and in only a very short period of time had made a real mark within Corunna Company.

"Quiet and unassuming, he was very committed in all that he did. It is to his credit that he completed his Warrior Driver course so successfully early in his career. His passion for motocross and Superbikes marked him out as a man who loved speed.

"We have lost today a young man who had so much to give in his life, both as a son, brother and as a soldier. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family."

Pvt. Wade leaves behind his mother Lisa, sister Stacey, fiancée Emma and unborn baby, Lexie.

Friends and relatives lay wreaths for fallen Brits

Friends and family gathered to leave flowers and messages for the fallen British soldiers killed in action this week. Watch video:

US Army Spc. Edward Acosta dies from bomb injuries

21-year-old US Army combat medic Edward J. Acosta, who was critically wounded last December when his patrol vehicle hit a roadside bomb in Wardak province, died on 5th March 2012 at a Southern California veterans hospital.

Spc. Acosta, from Hesperia, California, served with the Texas-based 2nd Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment, 1st Armored Division.

His grandmother told the Ventura County Star that Spc. Acosta was "a fan of snowboarding and skiing," and that he had been "fascinated by the military from an early age." He joined the Army in 2008, served in Korea in 2009 and deployed to Afghanistan in October 2011.

He leaves his wife Lindsay and their young daughter Emmalyn who was born while he was in Afghanistan.

Six dead British soldiers named by MoD

Top row (from left): Sergeant Nigel Coupe, Corporal Jake Hartley and Private Anthony Frampton. Bottom row (from left): Private Christopher Kershaw, Private Daniel Wade and Private Daniel Wilford

The British Ministry of Defence has released the names of six British soldiers killed in action, following an attack on their Warrior armoured vehicle on 6th March 2012 in Helmand.

The names released are: Sergeant Nigel Coupe, aged 33, 1st Battalion The Duke of Lancaster's Regiment

The five soldiers from 3rd Battalion The Yorkshire Regiment are: Corporal Jake Hartley (20), Private Anthony Frampton (20), Private Christopher Kershaw (19), Private Daniel Wade (20), and Private Daniel Wilford (21).

6 British troops killed in action in Helmand

The British Ministry of Defence has announced that six British soldiers were killed in action, after their Warrior armoured vehicle was caught in an explosion on Tuesday 6th March.

The soldiers, five from 3rd Battalion The Yorkshire Regiment and one from 1st Battalion The Duke of Lancaster's Regiment, were on a mounted patrol at the time.

Lieutenant Colonel Gordon Mackenzie, spokesman for Task Force Helmand, said:

"I have the tragic duty to report that six soldiers are missing, believed killed, during a security patrol. The six soldiers, five from 3rd Battalion The Yorkshire Regiment and one from 1st Battalion The Duke of Lancaster's Regiment, were on patrol in a Warrior armoured fighting vehicle when it was caught in an explosion in the Task Force Helmand Area of Operations."

Update: The six soldiers have been named by the Ministry of Defence

Funeral of fallen British SAC Ryan Tomlin

The funeral of an RAF airman who was killed in Afghanistan has taken place today.

21-year-old Senior Aircraftman Ryan Tomlin of 2 Squadron RAF Regiment was shot while on patrol in Nade Ali last month.

His family described him as a 'true hero and a shining star'. The funeral took place at St Mary's Church in Hemel Hempstead.

US Paratroop Staff Sgt. Jordan Bear

US Army Staff Sergeant Jordan Bear, from Denver, Colorado, was one of two 82nd Airborne Division troops killed in action on 1st March 2012 during an enemy attack at their base in Kandahar province.

SSgt. Bear and Pfc. Payton Jones, both serving with the 2nd Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment based at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, died when two Afghan National Army soldiers and an Afghan civilian shot them.

SSgt. Bear joined the Army in September 2004 and had deployed twice to Afghanistan prior to this mission. His awards include the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart, the NATO Medal, the Army Commendation Medal with one oak leaf cluster, the Army Good Conduct Medal with one oak leaf cluster, among others.

He leaves his wife, Sarah Bear, his 4-year-old daughter, Kailee Holbrook, and his 2-month-old son, Kayden Bear.

US Paratroop Pfc. Payton Jones

US Army Private 1st Class Payton A. Jones from Texas was one of two 82nd Airborne Division troops killed in action on 1st March 2012 during an enemy attack at their base in Kandahar province.

Pfc. Jones and Staff Sgt. Jordan Bear, both serving with the 2nd Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment based at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, died when two Afghan National Army soldiers and an Afghan civilian shot them.

Pfc. Jones joined the Army in July 2010. This was his first overseas combat deployment. His awards and decorations include the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart, National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the Overseas Service Ribbon, the Combat Infantryman's Badge and the Parachutist Badge.

He leaves his father Buell Jones and mother Tami Sims, among other relatives.

US Military fatalities - January and February 2012

The following is a list of known United States Military fatalities in Afghanistan - January and February 2012:

FEB
25-Feb	Loftis, John D.	Lt. Col.	44	866th Air Expeditionary Squadron, USAF
25-Feb	Marchanti, Robert	Major	48	Maryland National Guard
23-Feb	Born, Joshua A.	Sergeant	25	16th Military Police Brigade
23-Feb	Conrad, Timothy Jr.	Sergeant	22	16th Military Police Brigade
21-Feb	McKenna, Allen R. Jr	Sergeant	28	1st Squadron, 10th Cavalry
17-Feb	Pough, Paris S.	PO1	40	Navy
16-Feb	Reed, Jerry D.	Sergeant	30	2nd Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment
11-Feb	Cortez, Cesar	Pfc.	24	5th Battalion, 52nd Air Defense Artillery Reg.
10-Feb	Montes De Oca, Osbrany	L-Cpl.	20	2nd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment
07-Feb	Sutton, Billy A.	Sgt. 1st	42	Mississippi National Guard
03-Feb	Hildner, Terence J.	Brig. Gen.	49	13th Expeditionary Sustainment Command
01-Feb	Dycus, Edward J.	L-Cpl.	22	2nd Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment
JAN
31-Jan	Stacey, William C.	Sergeant	23	2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment
25-Jan	Johnson, David A.	1st Lt.	24	5th Battalion, 20th Infantry Regiment
22-Jan	Pairsh, Joshua C.	Captain	29	4th Civil Affairs Group, Marine Forces Reserve
21-Jan	Singer, Christopher G.	Corporal	23	3rd Combat Engineer Battalion, Marine Corps
19-Jan	Bartle, Daniel B.	Captain	27	Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 363
19-Jan	McHone, Nathan R.	Captain	29	Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 363
19-Jan	Riddick, Travis W.	MSgt.	40	Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 363
19-Jan	Stites, Jesse W.	Corporal	23	Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 363
19-Jan	Reinhard, Kevin J.	Corporal	25	Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 363
19-Jan	Logan, Joseph D.	Corporal	22	Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 363
18-Jan	McGeath, Phillip D.	Corporal	25	1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment
18-Jan	Benson, Keith D.	Spc.	27	2nd Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment
15-Jan	Bateman, Jon-Luke	Corporal	22	2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment
15-Jan	Cochran, Kenneth E.	L-Cpl.	20	9th Engineer Support Battalion, Marine Corps
15-Jan	Wise, Benjamin B.	Sgt. 1st	34	3rd Battalion, 1st Special Forces Group
11-Jan	Turner, Neil	Pfc.	21	1st Battalion, 41st Infantry Regiment
10-Jan	Pyron, Michael W.	Pfc.	30	25th Signal Battalion, 160th Signal Brigade
08-Jan	Napier, Dustin P.	Pfc.	20	1st Battalion, 24th Infantry Regiment
06-Jan	Metzger, Jonathan M.	Staff Sgt	32	713th Engineer Company, Indiana Nat. Guard
06-Jan	Leonhardt, Brian J.	Spc.	21	713th Engineer Company, Indiana Nat. Guard
06-Jan	Tauteris, Robert J.	Spc.	44	713th Engineer Company, Indiana Nat. Guard
06-Jan	Patterson, Christopher A.	Spc.	20	713th Engineer Company, Indiana Nat. Guard
05-Jan	Bell, Bryan R.	Sr. Airman	23	2nd Civil Engineer Squadron, USAF
05-Jan	Schwartz, Matthew S.	Tech. Sgt.	34	90th Civil Engineer Squadron, USAF
05-Jan	Seidler, Matthew R.	Airman 1st	24	21st Civil Engineer Squadron, USAF
02-Jan	Regelin, Chad R.	PO1	24	Marine Special Operations Company Bravo