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News - Telegraph TV

Corporal Sarah Bryant, Corporal Sean Reeve, Lance Corporal Richard Larkin and Paul Stout killed in Afghanistan

A Military Operations news article

19 Jun 08

It is with deep regret that the Ministry of Defence must confirm the deaths of Corporal Sarah Bryant of the Intelligence Corps, Corporal Sean Robert Reeve of the Royal Signals, Lance Corporal Richard Larkin and Paul Stout in Afghanistan on Tuesday 17 June 2008.

Top row: Corporal Sarah Bryant, Corporal Sean Robert Reeve, bottom row: Lance Corporal Richard Larkin and Paul Stout
[Pictures: via MOD]

All four soldiers were tragically killed while taking part in a deliberate operation east of Lashkar Gah when the vehicle in which they were travelling was caught in an explosion at approximately 1540hrs. Another soldier was wounded in the incident and is receiving treatment for his wounds at the UK Field Hospital at Camp Bastion. He is in a stable condition.

Corporal Sarah Bryant, Intelligence Corps

Corporal Sarah Bryant of the Intelligence Corps was a member of 15 (United Kingdom) Psychological Operations Group based in Chicksands, Bedfordshire. She deployed to Afghanistan on 15 March 2008 with 152 DELTA Psychological Operations Effects Team in support of the Helmand Task Force within the PSE, serving with the Headquarters of 16 Air Assault Brigade as the Target Audience Analyst.

Corporal Sarah Bryant was born on 17 December 1981 in Liverpool and joined the Army on 21 January 2002 as a member of the Intelligence Corps. On completion of training, she was appointed to 11 MI Sect in Herford Germany, and later served on operations in Iraq. She was married to Carl, also a soldier in the Intelligence Corps, upon whom she doted.

Left: Corporal Sarah Bryant with her husband Carl on her wedding day; right: Corporal Sarah Bryant on patrol in Afghanistan
[Pictures: via MOD]

Utterly professional, Sarah was tenacious and reliable. She was an excellent operator able to turn her hand to any task. Highly competent at both combat Intelligence and Security, she was at ease with her peers and officers alike and was held in high regard. Her professionalism, exceptional trade knowledge and confidence ensured effective liaison with other units, especially on security inspections and investigations.

Everyone she encountered noted her as a friendly, reliable and professional soldier. She had been marked out for potential commissioning but indicated that she wanted to go through the ranks. Her clear potential was highlighted by the fact that she had been pre-selected for promotion to Sergeant on her first look. This is testament to her determination and dedication to the Intelligence Corps, and to life in general.

Sarah's husband, Cpl Carl Bryant, said:

"Although I am devastated beyond words at the death of my beautiful wife Sarah, I am so incredibly proud of her. She was an awesome soldier who died doing the job that she loved. My wife knew the risks, she was there because she wanted to be, and she wouldn't have had it any other way. She was funny, kind and the most amazing person to be around, I will never stop being thankful for the time I spent as her husband. I love her now and always, with all my heart, as do her proud parents, friends and family. My wife was a truly special person who died a hero. Sarah, as with all our fallen, must never be forgotten."

Corporal Sean Robert Reeve
[Picture: via MOD]

Following the news of her death, her Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Jim Suggit, said:

"Sarah had the brightest future ahead of her, both in her career - where she had been pre-selected for promotion - and her personal life. She was a beautiful young woman and also an utterly professional, extremely adept PSYOPS operator, who was highly regarded by all who knew her. She had previously served in Iraq and had prepared fully for her Afghan task, both physically and mentally. She had courage, passion and flair for the role she was undertaking, engaging with the people of Helmand Province and trying to give them hope and confidence that they might eventually enjoy peace, progress and prosperity.

"I will miss her delightful charm, her sharp mind, her gentle humour, our close comradeship and seeing her take the many wonderful opportunities life would have presented. We mourn her, we salute her and we will remember the sparkle she brought to us all. She will live eternally in our thoughts and be ever named in our prayers."

Officer Commanding the PSE, Lieutenant Commander Shamus MacLean, Royal Navy, said;

"Today while on operations in Helmand outside Lashkar Gah Cpl Sarah Bryant was killed when the vehicle she was travelling in was involved in an explosion that tragically also took the lives of three of her comrades. Having been on operations in Afghanistan for the past three months, she had already experienced operating on the ground several times in this unforgiving environment, proving herself more than equal to her male colleagues on many occasions. Cpl Bryant was a dedicated soldier who never ceased to push herself in pursuit of her objectives and was courageous in the face of adversity. Her courage is testament to the work that we are conducting here in Afghanistan. Ours is a difficult task and as part of the larger task force we are clear in our own minds what must be done. Today has been a hard day which has shaken us all but this too will pass. We will strive to continue the work already done to ensure that Sarah's sacrifice is not in vain. PSYOPS is a small, close-knit family and Sarah was very much part of that. She will be sorely missed. The most difficult burden is for those she left behind; words cannot describe what they must be feeling. Our thoughts and prayers are with them at this time."

Lance Corporal Richard Larkin
[Picture: via MOD]

Second-in-Command PSE, Flt Lt Jim Hollingworth, said:

"Sarah was the life and soul of the PSE. An individual with so much potential, she was incredibly ambitious and she had high hopes for the future. The smile on her face never faded and she was renowned for her networking ability. She was an unforgettable colleague who will be sorely missed."

Sergeant Major PSE, WO2 Richie Walters, said:

"Cpl Bryant was an exceptional soldier. Her work as a Target Audience Analyst was faultless and her soldiering skills were second to none. Sarah's zest for life, exuberance and smiles will be greatly missed."

Friend and colleague, Sgt 'Pucky' Pucky said:

"During the short time I knew Sarah, I worked closely with her as our disciplines dictated we should. I was quickly aware that she was a diligent, hard working NCO with a can-do attitude and versatile nature to go with her intelligence. She had a relaxed attitude that belied her hard working nature and was always around with a ready smile and cheery conversation, any who met her warmed to so quickly. She will be sorely missed by friends and colleagues alike and our thoughts go to her husband and family."

Friend and colleague, Cpl 'OB' O'Brien said:

"Sarah and I had only worked together for a short time but quickly became friends. She was the life and soul of the office always ready with a smile. She will be sorely missed by those who knew her, a special person who touched everyone she met. Our thoughts and condolences go out to her family and friends."

Back in the UK, Staff Sergeant Nick Wildman said:

"I have known Sarah for about ten months since she arrived at 15 (UK) Psychological Operations Group with a smile on her face, and I don't remember not seeing her smiling since then. Everyone who met Sarah seemed to take an instant shine to her. We have numerous mutual friends, colleagues and acquaintances from previous jobs and postings, all of whom spoke highly of her.

"Sarah had a happy, easy-going manner and never seemed to get flustered or exceptionally angry with anything or anyone - 'Laissez-faire' - I was so rightly informed by her husband. Sarah was calm, feminine and petite; this did not stop her being an all round, determined soldier.

"Sarah did not avoid hard work, she did not back out of the physical and always tried her best. Sarah was articulate, intelligent and very sociable. Sarah was a fine Intelligence Corps Operator and a strong purposeful soldier with a massive future ahead. We will miss her."

Cpl T Edwards said:

"It has been my honour to serve with Cpl Sarah Bryant in 15 (UK) Psychological Operations Group for just under a year. Sarah was a popular and well-regarded colleague who was professional, pragmatic and conscientious in both her bearing and performance. Sarah was a passionate soldier who loved the Army and was proud to be Intelligence Corps. Always ready with a smile and a friendly word regardless of the situation, even those who met her briefly were left with the impression that they had been talking to an old friend. Sarah's positive outlook and passion for her job could not but be admired. However, no one could doubt her devotion to her husband, family and 'baby', Labrador 'Tyson'. Sarah was a credit to her family and an example for others within the Corps. We have lost a treasured friend and colleague, our grief at her loss will not heal quickly, nor would we want it to."

Paul Stout
[Picture: via MOD]

Statement from the family of Corporal Sean Robert Reeve, aged 28, Royal Signals:

"A dearly loved son, brother, godparent, uncle, grandson, and friend, who was loving, loyal, honourable, selfless and gentle. A pillar of strength that all could turn to. Sean’s professionalism and determination for all that he did was an inspiration to all that were fortunate to have known him. Taken from us but never forgotten. We would like to add that at this time our joint family position is that we do not wish to make any further comment to the media. We ask that you respect our personal request for privacy, and allow us to grieve in peace."

Statement from the family of Lance Corporal Richard Larkin, aged 39:

"Lance Corporal Richard Larkin was a beloved husband, father, son and brother whose tragic and untimely death will be deeply mourned by his family, friends and colleagues. We request that the media leave us to grieve in peace and respect our privacy at this very difficult time."

Statement from the family of Paul Stout, aged 31:

"Paul was a loving father and devoted husband. He was a wonderful son and brother and will be greatly missed by all his family and friends. Our lives will be changed forever by this loss. We request that we are allowed to grieve in peace without media intrusion."

Defence Secretary Des Browne said:

"I was incredibly saddened to hear of the tragic losses of the past two weeks, most recently that of Corporal Sarah Bryant, Lance Corporal Richard Larkin, Corporal Sean Reeve and Paul Stout, who lost their lives on Tuesday.

"All four were immensely dedicated and professional service personnel and my sincere and deepest condolences go out to all of their family and loved ones. I cannot comprehend the pain they are going through. They have made the ultimate sacrifice, laying down their life alongside those of their comrades in pursuit of the aim of a peaceful and stable Afghanistan. We will ensure their losses were not in vain."

Defence Secretary announces Afghan troop increase

A Defence Policy and Business news article

16 Jun 08

Defence Secretary Des Browne has today, 16 June 2008, announced a plan to increase the number of troops deployed to Afghanistan.

Members of The Parachute Regiment on operations in Afghanistan
[Picture: Sgt Ian Houlding]

In a statement to Parliament on the current situation in the country, Mr Browne confirmed that an additional 230 troops will be sent to Afghanistan as part of a rebalancing of UK forces.

These latest adjustments will serve three aims. Firstly, to improve the level of protection afforded to our UK troops deployed in the region. Secondly, to increase the capacity to deliver training and mentoring to the Afghan National Security Forces. And thirdly, to increase the capacity of UK troops to deliver the civil effects of reconstruction and development.

The full statement by Defence Secretary Des Browne to Parliament on Monday 16 June 2008 is below:

"Last December my Right Honourable Friend The Prime Minister set out a clear and long term framework for bringing security and political, social and economic development to Afghanistan. I would like to give the House an update on some of the progress that we have made since then in Afghanistan – based on my most recent visit to Afghanistan last month – and to set out our future plans for the UK's military contribution to the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force.

"Mr Speaker, the security situation in Afghanistan has improved in the last 12 months. The Taliban's leadership has been targeted successfully and recent operations in southern Helmand have disrupted severely their training and lines of communication. This has had two principal effects. Firstly their sphere of influence has been reduced. Nine tenths of the security incidents are confined to one tenth of the country. The rest is relatively peaceful.

"Secondly we have seen them reduce their ambition from insurgency to terrorism. The Taliban's campaign is now limited to intimidating Afghan communities, coercing the vulnerable into becoming suicide bombers and carrying out brutal and indiscriminate attacks on the International Community and above all the Afghans themselves – men, women and children. As their conventional attacks have failed we have seen their tactics shift to mines, roadside bombs and suicide vests. These tactics run deeply counter to the Afghan culture. As does the Taliban's reliance on paid foreign fighters – the so called 'ten dollar Talibs' who now make up the majority of those doing the fighting for them. Mr Speaker I fully recognise that the Taliban's new tactics pose a different but very serious challenge, both to our forces and to the local people. We need to ensure that we do all that we can to mitigate this new danger and I am fully engaged on making sure that we do so.

"Mr Speaker, I share the understandable international concern about the breakout that happened from Kandahar Prison on Friday 13th June. The Government of Afghanistan is leading the response to this incident and we are monitoring this closely. We have always said that the challenge of supporting an Afghan lead on security goes wider than support to the Afghan Armed Forces to include the justice sector and we are already engaged in supporting a programme of justice reform that includes work on prisons. International support to the Afghan Government's security response is being provided through NATO's presence in Kandahar. Let me conclude here by saying that, notwithstanding the extremely serious nature of this incident, it does not change our view that the Taliban are losing the fight in southern Afghanistan.

"The Afghan people, like people the world over, long for security, stability and prosperity. They understand that the Taliban cannot deliver these things. Our forces – alongside the US, Canadian, Dutch, Australian, Danish and many others – are in Afghanistan to fulfil a UN mandate, to support the elected Government, to train and mentor the Afghan army and police and to give the Afghan people hope for the future. I believe, as I think does the great majority of this House, that Afghanistan is a noble cause. But we also know that it comes at a tragic human cost – as we have been reminded over the last week. The recent deaths of five members of 2 PARA – as well as the 97 other UK fatalities in Afghanistan since 2002 and all those UK personnel who have been wounded or otherwise scarred by this conflict – are an enduring measure of the dangers that our young servicemen and women face on operations on our behalf.

"Mr Speaker the military know better than anyone that this is a campaign that cannot be won by military means alone. Once security has improved – and it has – delivering improvements in infrastructure, governance, rule of law, schools, hospitals and services must follow. Generating these things in a country that has been devastated by decades of conflict and which is the fourth poorest country in the world is difficult and challenging – it will be a long term endeavour. But I saw real progress here during my trip. There is now a tangible sense that life for many Afghans is improving.

"In Helmand, they have a new and extremely able Governor – Governor Mangal – who is spreading the writ of the Government of Afghanistan further into this once lawless province. During the week of my visit the local people of Garmsir re-opened their hospital for the first time in two years. In Lashkar Gah they had also just opened a new high school – some of the girls attending that school will represent the first women in their families ever to go to school and receive an education.

"We the UK are not alone in our commitment to Afghanistan. Last week 80 countries and international organisations met in Paris at the International Conference in support of Afghanistan. In Paris the Afghan Government's National Development Strategy was launched. This plan provides an Afghan blueprint for the future development of their country. And last week in Paris the International Community pledged $20.4 billion to help fund it and reaffirmed their support for Kai Eide's role in co-ordinating their efforts to help deliver it.

"The security situation in Afghanistan has improved in the last 12 months. The Taliban's leadership has been targeted successfully and recent operations in southern Helmand have disrupted severely their training and lines of communication."

Des Browne

"Mr Speaker I am not underestimating how much remains to be done. But the green shoots of development and democracy are becoming ever more firmly rooted in a security environment that has improved out of all measure since the UK forces deployed to southern Afghanistan two years ago.

"Mr Speaker, this focus on development does not mean we are complacent about security – far from it. As I said before, the shift in tactics – while being in one sense a sign of strategic weakness – presents us with a different but still very serious challenge, one that our forces are confronting with the same courage, professionalism and intelligence they have shown throughout the campaign. At the same time, the Prime Minister's December statement made clear, over time we plan to rebalance our military commitment from one based on direct combat operations to one of support for the Afghans' own security forces. There is good news here – the Afghan National Army is a success story. Afghan soldiers are fearless and redoubtable fighters and the ANA is respected and admired by the Afghan people. Their professional competence is also increasing by the day. The first ANA Kandak (or Battalion) has now reached Capability Milestone 1 which means they are capable of fully independent operations. Our soldiers are finding that the level of mentoring that the Afghan National Army requires has markedly reduced as their capability and experience grows, and this is no mean achievement.

"Creating an effective police force is proving to be a more difficult challenge. To accelerate this process the Coalition has introduced a process called Focussed District Development which is in effect a mass training and retraining of the Afghan National Police, District by District. This ambitious plan has an annual budget of $2 billion a year and it is making a big difference. But we have to accept that creating an independent, effective police force in Afghanistan will not happen overnight.

"Counter Insurgency campaigns ultimately are about winning the support of the local population. With the diminishing relevance of the Taliban's campaign and the increasing delivery of development I am in little doubt that we are winning that too.

"It is in this context that I have, with the military advice of the Chiefs of Staff, decided to make a number of adjustments to the profile of our forces in Afghanistan. Currently we have 7,800 troops in Afghanistan deployed to Helmand, Kandahar and Kabul. As a result of a recent review I have approved the removal of around 400 posts from the Afghan Operational Establishment Table. These posts are no longer required due to reorganisation and the changed nature of the tactical situation. At the same time we have identified a requirement for, in total, 630 new posts, creating a net increase in our forces in Afghanistan of some 230 personnel to around 8,030 by Spring 2009.

"Mr Speaker, broadly these adjustments have three aims. Firstly to improve the level of protection afforded to our personnel. Secondly to increase the capacity of our forces to deliver training and mentoring to the Afghan National Security Forces. And thirdly to increase the capacity of our forces to deliver the civil effects of reconstruction and development in an insecure or semi-secure environment. All of these aims are vital if we are to sustain the progress that we are making.

"Let me set out the nature of these changes.

"Mr Speaker the first objective of these force adjustments is to increase the protection that we are able to give our brave servicemen and women as they conduct their mission in Afghanistan. In the months ahead we will deploy more troops to man the additional Viking and Mastiff vehicles that we have already ordered. Further specialists will deploy to man reconnaissance and warning systems in our Forward Operating Bases in Helmand and we will also reinforce the Royal Air Force Regiment Squadron that helps defend Kandahar Airfield. The House will recall that improvements that we have made to ground support and crewing arrangements for our CH-47 Chinook and AH-64 Apache helicopters have increased the total amount of flying time per month available to our commanders in Afghanistan. Part of this uplift will be delivered by an increase in helicopter crews which I am announcing today.

"Amongst the most potent of all our capabilities in deterring and denying the insurgency is our ability to project Close Air Support. In Afghanistan we have a contingent of Harrier GR7/GR9s that have proven time and again their value in defending the lives of our troops, our Allies and those they are there to protect. The Harrier Force first deployed to Kandahar Airfield in November 2004 and continuously has been operational ever since. This is an impressive record by any standard but I am very mindful of the strain that this extended deployment has put upon the crews, their families and the wider roles of Joint Force Harrier. I have therefore decided to withdraw the Harrier Force by Spring 2009 and to replace them with an equivalent force of Tornado GR4s.

"I have already mentioned by developing the Afghan Security Forces we are setting the conditions to allow them to take an increased role in their own security. To accelerate this we will expand our fourth Operational Mentor and Liaison Team to accelerate the development of the Afghan National Army. And we will continue to train the Afghan National Police. In particular, we will focus our efforts to help Afghan National Army and Police Commanders develop the skills they need to lead their forces effectively in a demanding and often very dangerous area.

"Counter Insurgency campaigns ultimately are about winning the support of the local population. With the diminishing relevance of the Taliban's campaign and the increasing delivery of development I am in little doubt that we are winning that too."

Des Browne

"The improved security situation that our forces are generating has provided us with a real opportunity to increase the rate of our delivery of civil effect. I have therefore decided that when 3 Commando Brigade deploys to Afghanistan this October, it will deploy with an additional Infantry Battalion Headquarters and Sub-Unit. These forces will operate in southern Helmand to ensure that we are able to consolidate and exploit the security gains that we have made in that area. 3 Commando Brigade will also deploy with an extra troop of Royal Engineers to support our Provincial Reconstruction Team by undertaking Quick Impact Projects in support of the local community. These forces will be supported by more medical, logistical and equipment support troops.

"In addition we will attach Civil-Military Co-operation Officers to each of our Battlegroups and we will form Military Stabilisation Teams on the model of the ad hoc team that we deployed with great success in the wake of our reoccupation of Musa Qaleh. Both of these measures will enable us to take forward development projects including quick impact projects in areas where the level of threat remains high.

"Mr Speaker my announcement today of a net uplift of 230 additional troops does not in proportionate terms represent a very significant increase. It does not mean our mission is expanding. It means we are taking the steps necessary to take our mission forward as effectively as we can, with a force whose profile and capabilities are optimised to the conditions that they face. As I have explained the uplift and rebalancing will enable our forces to strengthen their protection and to increase the rate at which they are able to build Afghan capacity, in security, governance and development. Some of these new capabilities will need a year before they are available for operations in Afghanistan. Others will deploy much sooner. And, of course, we shall continue to work to develop the optimum balance of forces and capabilities – in conjunction with the Afghan Government and our Allies – in what can be rapidly changing conditions. These additional forces will ensure we can maintain the growing reach of the Afghan Government in Helmand, increase the military contribution to development and accelerate the pace of Afghanisation.

"Mr Speaker, we talk in this House in terms of numbers, units, and strategies. But as the events of the last week have reminded all of us, behind these numbers are individual young men or women, working courageously in strange, difficult, and dangerous conditions far from their family back home. Constantly I am impressed by their bravery and resourcefulness and, on behalf of the Government and I am sure the whole House, I express our gratitude for their service to the nation, and commit myself to continuing to do everything we can to support them."

Lance Corporal James Bateman and Private Jeff Doherty killed in Afghanistan

A Military Operations news article

13 Jun 08

It is with deep sadness that the Ministry of Defence must confirm the deaths of Lance Corporal James Bateman and Private Jeff Doherty of 2nd Battalion The Parachute Regiment (2 PARA) on Thursday 12 June 2008 in Helmand Province, Afghanistan.

Lance Corporal James 'Jay' Bateman and Private Jeff 'Doc' Doherty
[Picture: via MOD]

Early on 12 June 2008, 8 Platoon of C (Bruneval) Company, 2 Battalion The Parachute Regiment was engaged by the Taliban north of their base at FOB Gibraltar in the Upper Gereshk Valley, Helmand Province.

During the exchange of fire Lance Corporal James Bateman and Private Jeff Doherty were killed in the face of the enemy amongst their colleagues and friends.

Commanding Officer of 2 PARA, Lieutenant Colonel Joe O'Sullivan, paid the following tribute:

"This morning, 8 Platoon of C (Bruneval) Company was engaged by the Taliban north of their base at FOB Gibraltar. During the exchange of fire LCpl James Bateman and Pte Jeff Doherty were killed.

"They died doing what they had been asked to do, operating in difficult country against a dangerous enemy to make it harder for the enemy to influence the people and give those people the chance of a better life. They had patrolled the area around FOB Gibraltar with great skill for two months and had taken the fight to the Taliban in the Musa Qaleh Wadi.

"The Battalion's memorial stone bears the inscription 'there is no better place in the world to be than in the midst of 2 PARA when there is a battle on'. LCpl James Bateman and Pte Jeff Doherty wanted to be in The Parachute Regiment and in the midst of 2 PARA in Afghanistan.

"Their commitment to their friends and the steadfast courage they showed as they faced their battle this morning is in the finest tradition of the Regiment and admired by us all. We will think about them, and what they were prepared to give here, and we will think about their families whose loss is so great.

"They will join Pte Charles Murray, Pte Daniel Gamble and Pte Nathan Cuthbertson and return home to where their families and the Regiment are waiting to meet them, and we will continue with our work in the Helmand River valley.

"Much is said about how difficult that work is and how long it may take, but 2 PARA is somewhat older than the Taliban; the Battalion has seen challenging times before and has always succeeded - no matter what odds have been stacked against it. So we will pay our respects and we will ensure that record is kept as our tribute to them."

Lance Corporal James 'Jay' Bateman
[Picture: via MOD]

Lance Corporal James Bateman

James 'Jay' Bateman was born on 11 January 1979 and grew up in Staines, Middlesex, where he went to school. He lived in Colchester with his wife Victoria to whom he was married in Salisbury Cathedral last year. Jay was a man of passions, dedicated to his wife, applying relentless enthusiasm to his job and fervent about West Ham United football club. He was larger than life in every respect, a man of considerable physical presence; he was loud, vivacious and overflowing with life.

He joined The Parachute Regiment in 2001, and upon completion of his training was posted to 2 PARA in March 2002, initially to 9 Platoon, C (Bruneval) Company.

On promotion to Lance Corporal he was posted to D Company. He had served with the Battalion in Northern Ireland and Iraq previously. It was just before deployment that he returned to 8 Platoon as Second-in-Command of 1 Section in the Company in which he began his career. Brimming with enthusiasm, he had his sights set on gaining a posting to 16 Air Assault Brigade's specialist Pathfinder Platoon.

Lance Corporal Bateman was a proud and honest Paratrooper, respected for being a gentleman as much as he was for his unbridled energy and professionalism. He was fit and had taken part in amateur boxing at company level. He barely stopped to pause, with unmatched staying power and a work ethic that put most to shame. C (Bruneval) Company was his spiritual home and his return to the company marked a new juncture in his career.

He leaves behind his wife Victoria, whom he adored.

His Company Commander, Major Adam Dawson, said:

"LCpl Bateman rejoined the company shortly before the deployment for the Herrick 8 tour. I am unable to recollect a soldier more happy to be back amongst his friends, at the sharp end and taking on what he considered to be his core business, his profession and a challenge.

"He was elated to be back with 8 Platoon and exemplified everything that is expected of the Junior Non-Commissioned Officer on operations – he was energetic, hard working, fit and keen, a source of inspiration and a man with a light heart and a sensitive touch.

"This was the life he had chosen, it was the life he loved and he had aspirations to join his brother at The Special Forces Support Group on completion of the tour. He was the first to volunteer, the last to give up and above all extremely proud to be a Paratrooper, imbued with the Regimental ethos and dedicated to his friends and his soldiers.

"His death leaves an irreplaceable gap in the ranks of Bruneval Company and a hole in the lives of his friends and colleagues who consider themselves blessed to have known him. A loyal husband and a gentleman."

Sergeant Chris Lloyd, his friend and 8 Platoon Sergeant, spoke warmly in remembrance of him:

"Lance Corporal 'Jay' Bateman and I first met in Iraq on Op Telic 7. Jay was a larger than life character with a heart to match it. He absolutely revelled in his work and was the first person to volunteer for a task. He was the true definition of a paratrooper, fit, strong, full of determination and with a fantastic sense of humour.

"I became close friends with him and know that his job was second only to his love for his wife Victoria whom he doted upon. He was a friend as well as a colleague and the Platoon will miss him dearly."

"He was so proud to be a Paratrooper and epitomised every aspect of what that meant."

Private Keith Abraham

1 Section Commander and close friend Corporal Adam Ireland said:

"I remember Jay arriving at 2 PARA and because of his easy going personality it wasn't long before we were good friends. As my second in command he was my right hand man and I could always rely on him. He always put the soldiers' safety before his own, ensuring kit was working correctly and the blokes were in good fire positions.

"His dedication to ensuring their safety is sadly what cost him his life. 1 Section, 8 Platoon and I will never forget the sacrifice you made for us."

Colleague and friend Corporal Gareth Storey recalled their time together in Afghanistan:

"No matter what problems I had, Jay would always be there to listen and to offer some advice. I will miss his smile and the copious amounts of tea we would have together trying to put the world to rights.

"My thoughts go to his loved ones, family and friends. Jay did the job he loved and will be remembered by all who knew him."

Corporal Paul Knapp remembers his friend:

"Jay was a loveable guy, with the craziest sense of humour you could ever come across. Always willing to help, he had a heart of pure gold. When I first came to 2 PARA Jay was one of the senior soldiers. His physical stature was quite imposing to a young soldier but his gentle personality and his way of communicating made me feel very welcome.

"We became good friends during our tour of Iraq in December 2003 and from there our friendship grew. In 2006 Jay married Victoria and I was proud to be in his guard of honour. He was a great character and a true legend.

"I will miss you fat head, I'm so sorry your time with us was cut short. My thoughts are with Vix and your family. Rest in peace my friend. Until we meet again."

Private Keith Abraham of 1 Section 8 Platoon spoke of his admiration for his colleague:

"Jay was the senior Private when I first arrived at 2 PARA. He immediately took me in, explained how things work in Battalion and made sure I was ready for whatever was ahead. He was so proud to be a Paratrooper and epitomised every aspect of what that meant. He would do anything for his men without question and always managed to provide us with morale, whether he meant it or not!

"Jay Bateman was a good friend and the world has lost one of its characters. We'll miss you Jay."

Private Billy Innes of 1 Section 8 Platoon said of his colleague and commander:

"I've known Jay since I've been in Battalion and he is well known throughout 2 PARA. He became my section 2IC for the tour which I was very happy about as he was a great soldier and worked hard for his men. He would always be talking to us on and off the battlefield and always had time for everyone. He was a genuinely great bloke, he will be sorely missed and my heart goes out to his wife and family."

Lance Corporal Bateman's wife, Victoria Bateman, made the following statement:

"I would like to firstly thank everybody for their ongoing support. Secondly, I would like you all to know how immensely proud we are of him and all that he has achieved.

"I know how he loved The Parachute Regiment and I draw comfort from the fact that he died doing the job he loved, for the country he loved, with the friends he loved.

"He was a loving Husband, Brother, Son and Uncle. I would like the lads to carry on the work he was doing.

"I love him and will miss him greatly. He was our hero."

Private Jeff Doherty [Picture: via MOD]

Private Jeff Sean Doherty

Private Jeff 'Doc' Doherty was born in Coventry on 10 June 1988. Joining The Parachute Regiment had long been his passion and he passed out with 699 Platoon from the Infantry Training Centre Catterick, joining 2 PARA in March 2006.

His deployment with C (Bruneval) Company to Afghanistan on Op Herrick 8 was his first operational tour. He lived in Southam, Warwickshire, with his father at the family home.

Private Doherty completed the Drill and Duties course for promotion to Lance Corporal in 2007 and given his very strong performance during the early months of the tour he was a firm contender for promotion on return from Afghanistan.

He was an exceptionally fit and strong Paratrooper, proud in his profession and intent on making every moment count. He had boxed at an amateur level for the company at lightweight during inter company boxing where he had displayed his hallmark tenacity, strength, speed and courage.

He had a passion for The Parachute Regiment, living life to the full and always living up to the motto Utrinque Paratus – he was truly ready for anything. Private Doherty was a morale tonic, he touched all he knew with his infectious sense of humour and ability to lift the veil of darkness from any bleak moment.

He leaves behind a much-loved younger brother and three sisters.

His Company Commander, Major Adam Dawson, spoke of his potential and talent:

"Pte Doherty was at the top of his game, selected to be lead Scout in his section for his maturity, professionalism and innate talent for soldiering. By very nature of his role, he was always to be found at the front, finding the safe route for his team and using his skills to pathfind through the intricacies of the Helmand Green Zone.

"He demonstrated all that is dear to the Paratrooper – he was passionate, fit, robust and never one to call time. His boxing talents were also well recognised and he had a formidable reputation in the ring, displaying the same determination that he reflected in his daily soldiering.

"Proud and strong, light hearted and a liver of life, Pte Doherty will not fade in the memories of the men of Bruneval Company, he will be held as the standard, the epitome of the Paratrooper on operations and the soldier entrusted to keep his section on track.

"He died as he lived, placing others first and accepting the significant burden of responsibility for his fellow Paratrooper who followed him. I was proud to have known him."

His platoon sergeant, Sergeant Chris Lloyd, said:

"Pte 'Jeff' Doherty arrived in the Platoon upon our return from Op Telic 7, Iraq. He was rarely seen without a smile on his face and his sense of humour was infectious. He quickly became very popular not only within the Platoon but across the Battalion. He showed a keen interest in learning to box and as with everything else he attempted he gave it every ounce of his energy.

"He was fit, motivated and had been selected to attend the promotion course at such an early stage in his career due to all these factors. He had recently started dating Etoille whom he had known for 11 years. He was the main deliverer of morale in the Platoon and his passing has left a void that will not be easily filled. He will be missed immensely."

Corporal 'Des' Desmond, Section Commander in 8 Platoon, praised his colleague and friend:

"Private Doherty, Doc, had been in my section since he came to the Battalion in early 2006, he had worked his way up from rifleman to Machine Gunner and, after completing Drill and Duties, he successfully became lead scout and was trusted implicitly.

"Doc's wacky sense of humour and keen work ethic made him instantly likeable, and over the last couple of years we became friends. Doc would always do more than I asked of him and thrived on the responsibility as my lead scout while on Op Herrick 8.

"I can't emphasise how much I will miss him being around, I was with him at the last and I can say with total honesty that I was proud to serve and fight alongside him – he died doing what he loved.

"Pte Doherty was a Paratrooper and a real friend to myself and all of 8 Platoon, he had become like a younger brother who regularly needed helping out of a scrape or two. Mine, and the rest of the Section's thoughts are with his family and friends."

"He died as he lived, placing others first and accepting the significant burden of responsibility for his fellow Paratrooper who followed him."

Major Adam Dawson

Close friend Corporal Adam Ireland said:

"Jeff was like a brother and one of my closest friends. He has always been in 8 Platoon and lived next to me. Early on it was obvious that he was an excellent soldier. We could not be separated and people referred to him as my protégé, which we both loved. He was an ambassador for the Regiment."

Corporal Gareth Storey recalls taking him through his training:

"I first met Private Doherty in 2005 when he arrived in 699 Platoon at ITC Catterick and into my section. Doc had the ability to have all those around him, be they close friends or strangers, in complete stitches.

"At work he carried out all tasks to the best of his ability and played just as hard. He epitomised what it is to be a Paratrooper and I know that all those who knew him will feel his loss greatly. My thoughts are now with his loved ones at home, Doc did the job he loved and would never give in no matter what the cost. Doc you will be missed – take care son."

Private Lee Crudgington recalled their time together in training and in 8 Platoon:

"I can remember the very first time I met him which was in training at ITC Catterick. Jeff started out in the same platoon as me, 699 Athens Platoon. We were then put in the same section and then the same fire team and our friendship grew. There was no-one in the Platoon that could help but like him because he was such a joker and had reserves of morale – he always turned the darkest times into occasions for amusement.

"We met up again after the Iraq tour in Colchester, we shared a room and our friendship grew even though Jeff's bedspace was always messy. Jeff was liked very much across the Battalion and loved even more by his Platoon, we will never forget him, he is one of a kind. Every Man an Emperor."

Colleague and friend in 8 Platoon, Private Peter O'Neill, said:

"I first met Doc after I moved to 8 Platoon, he was the first to welcome me as a brother, we quickly bonded and became the best of friends in our social, private and professional lives. Doc's dedication to the Regiment was second-to-none, he was fit, strong and had the mentality to crack on no matter what the job.

"He was a real character who was always lifting morale when needed and even when it wasn't. He was and always will be typical of a British Paratrooper. I miss you Doc, see you at the reorg."

Private Billy Innes recalls his unique character:

"I've known and worked with Jeff for the last two and a half years and I have countless great memories thanks to him. I always loved his ability to switch from the joker of the platoon to the professional soldier; the new lads always looked up to him. He was a proud Paratrooper and friend. My sympathies go out to his family and friends – he will be greatly missed."

Private Doherty's family have made the following statement:

"We would like to thank all those who have sent their kind words following the death of our son JJ. Many of these have come from his friends in 2 PARA who continue to serve in Afghanistan. Our thoughts are with you all and with your families. We also have special thoughts for the families of the other soldiers who have also died whilst serving abroad. This is a terribly difficult time.

"JJ was such a wonderful son. He was the light of our lives and we all loved him. He was a hero to his brother and sisters and they loved him dearly. We will never forget the bright sparkle in his eyes and the way he could light up a room with his smile. He touched everyone who met him and we shall miss him desperately. We would ask for some space now to allow us to come to terms with our loss.

"Jeff lived and died doing what he loved and we are proud of him for that. We sincerely hope that his friends can draw strength from his death and we wish them all a safe return home."

Defence Secretary Des Browne said:

"It has been an intense and terrible week for those serving in Afghanistan, no more so than for those in 2 PARA. The deaths of Lance Corporal Bateman and Private Doherty will come as a further blow to them all, however they died as they live; excellent soldiers carrying out their duties with professionalism and courage.

"My thoughts are very much with their family and friends as they come to terms with their loss."

News Article

Two soldiers from 2 PARA killed in Afghanistan on 12 June

A Military Operations news article

12 Jun 08

It is with deep regret that the MOD must confirm that two British soldiers from 2nd Battalion the Parachute Regiment were killed in Afghanistan today, 12 June 2008.

Ministry of Defence

They were conducting a routine foot patrol in the vicinity of their base at Forward Operating Base Gibraltar in the Upper Gereshk Valley when they came under enemy fire, tragically killing two of the patrol party.

A third soldier was also injured in the incident. They were evacuated to Camp Bastion medical facility where the injured soldier is receiving treatment for his wounds.

The soldiers’ next of kin have been informed and have requested a 24 hour period of grace before further details are released.

Afghanistan: They joined as boys. They died as men. But why?

By Matthew Hickley and Michael Seamark
Last updated at 12:29 PM on 10th June 2008

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They enlisted in the Army as boys at the earliest opportunity, training together as 16-year-olds.

Nathan Cuthbertson and David Murray went on to join the Parachute Regiment together, proudly wearing the coveted wings.

And on Sunday the two friends died together, at just 19, when a Taliban suicide bomber attacked their patrol in southern Afghanistan.

Heroes: (L-R) Private Charles David Murray, Private Nathan Cuthbertson and Private Daniel Gamble

The blast also took the life of their friend and comrade Daniel Gamble, 22. The patrol's language specialist, he had stopped to talk to villagers.

Their deaths took the toll of British lives in Afghanistan to 100.

As tributes were paid to the three young soldiers, families of earlier victims condemned the Government's handling of the conflict as an 'utter waste'.

They angrily questioned Britain's strategy for building a stable Afghanistan, and accused ministers of failing to devote enough resources.

One grieving father warned: 'It is going to turn out as big a disaster as Iraq'.

Former senior military commanders also warned that our forces lacked a clear mission and were in a 'stalemate' with the Taliban.

Private Nathan Cuthbertson had been on a routine foot patrol in the Upper Sangin Valley in Helmand Province when he was killed by an explosion

But Gordon Brown insisted that those who had died serving their country in Afghanistan had 'achieved something of lasting value' and were helping turn a ' lawless region sheltering terrorists into an emerging democracy'.

The three soldiers, who had been in Afghanistan for two months, were members of the Parachute Regiment's 2nd Battalion. Privates Murray, from Carlisle, and Cuthbertson, from Sunderland, were both assault engineers.

Pte Gamble, who grew up in East Sussex, had learned the Afghan Pashtu language before being sent to Helmand province.

Their commander, Lieutenant Colonel Joe O'Sullivan, called them brave young men who had shown the 'clear, cold courage which is the hallmark of their comrades and their regiment'.

He said: 'We will remember what they have done and the life they have given, and what we achieve here will be their memorial.'

Army commanders say the Talibanare turning to suicide attacks and roadside bombs because they cannot face our troops directly and are losing local people's support.

Private Charles David Murray, of 2nd Battalion, the Parachute Regiment

Private Daniel Gamble: Learned Pashtu before going to Helmand

But Anthony Philippson, whose son Captain Jim Philippson, 29, was killed in a firefight in Helmand in 2006, said he now believed Britain's mission was futile.

He said: 'They have never learnt from Vietnam. The trouble with guerillas is they never wear uniforms - they disappear into the trees, then come back and fight when they want to.

'The whole thing is an utter waste of time. I think it is going to turn out as big a disaster as Iraq.'

Referring to the failed Soviet occupation of Afghanistan, he added: 'Why they ever thought they could do a better job than half a million Russians, I will never know - and they had fleets of helicopters.'

The father of Grenadier Guardsman Daryl Hickey, 27, who died last July during an attack on a Taliban position, called for British troops to be pulled out.

Civil engineer Thomas Hickey, 48, from Yardley, Birmingham, said: 'It's a complete waste of a life. I have just been watching about the latest deaths on the news. I see it and I just think, my son went through the same thing. The real question is what are they fighting for?

'All these young men are being killed and for what? We need to take them out of there. It is too late for me but it doesn't have to be for other families.

'The last time I spoke to Daryl I could tell he wasn't himself. He seemed very down, whereas usually he would be laughing and joking. Perhaps he feared something was going to happen.'

Colonel Tim Collins, who led the Royal Irish Regiment into Iraq in 2003, said British forces lacked a 'clear mission', making success difficult to recognise, let alone achieve.

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He questioned claims that allied forces were beating the Taliban, saying: 'They're like a will-o'-the-wisp. They'll change shape and come back. They don't have to beat us, they just have to out-last us. Claiming we're defeating them is like claiming that you've swept water up into a heap. You haven't really.'

But the Prime Minister's spokesman said Britain's presence in Afghanistan was essential.

If we left the forces of the Taliban unchecked, the country 'would be a source of major instability both globally and that would directly affect the UK - as we have seen in a number of terror plots which originated in that part of the world'.

Defence Secretary Des Browne said he was still convinced the campaign was 'the noble cause of the 21st century'.

He insisted: 'We are making significant progress. It's slow, sometimes it's frustratingly slow.

'The reason we are making that progress is because those very brave and professional young men and women have gone about their job in such a way that they have created, in the most difficult of circumstances, a degree of security that many people thought was impossible.'

The comrades in arms who died together

Pte Daniel Gamble

The rifleman and platoon linguist had, with 'typical enthusiasm and professionalism', gone forward to speak to a local Afghan man when his platoon was attacked by the suicide bomber.

The 22-year-old, who grew up in Uckfield, East Sussex, had a variety of jobs after leaving school before applying to join the Parachute Regiment.

After basic training, Pte Gamble joined 2 Para in October 2006 after earning his wings at RAF Brize Norton.

He had completed a 40-week language course to learn Pashtu, one of the main Afghan languages.

His parents Paul and Georgina said: 'Dan died doing the job he was so proud to do, with the regiment he was so proud to be a part of.

'He was special to his family and friends - a true hero in every sense.

'He will be missed by so many people, more than he would ever know.

'We all love him and will miss him so very much, forever in our memories.

'Our hearts go out to the families of the comrades who fell with him.'

As relatives and friends gathered at the family home last night, Mr Gamble said: 'Our emotions are running very high at the moment.

'There are lots of things I would like to say now, but I would probably regret them in the morning.'

Pte Nathan Cuthbertson

The19-year-old excelled in operating his platoon's specialist weapon, the general purpose machine gun.

The Sunderland-born Para began his military career three years ago at the Army Foundation College in Harrogate.

Last night his parents Tom and Carla said: 'He died a hero, doing a job he loved among his friends.

Nathan had a real passion for life - he always had a smile and was quick to make friends.'

They added: 'Nathan realised his childhood dream by following his dad's footsteps and joining the Parachute Regiment as a machine gunner.

'His death will leave a massive hole in all of our lives. We will not forget him.'

The official tribute issued by the Ministry of Defence last night said of Pte Cuthbertson, 'rarely seen without a smile, he could be depended upon to cheer up the platoon even in the most adverse conditions from the Northumberland rain of pre-deployment training to the heat of the Afghan summer'.

His platoon commander Lieutenant David True said: 'Pte Cuthbertson loved his platoon and worked tirelessly on its behalf, nowhere more so than in Afghanistan.

'When volunteers were required, his was always the first hand to go up. He was a brilliant soldier and a great man.

'He will be greatly missed.'

Pte David Murray

The 19-year-old rifleman joined 2 Para in December 2006 and undertook specialist training as an Infantry Assault Engineer within a year - a course usually reserved for more experienced soldiers.

Pte Murray was born in Dumfries but grew up in Carlisle.

He left school at 16 to attend the Army Foundation College in Harrogate, representing the college at rugby league during a tour of Australia.

His family, in a statement issued by the Ministry of Defence, said: 'David always dreamed of being a soldier like his uncle, papa and grandad.

'He made us proud, every day, in everything he did.

'He was the little guy with a big heart, although he would never admit it.

'He had the biggest, cheekiest grin that we had ever seen and he always made us laugh with his cheeky way.

'We love you David and are so very proud of you.'

The MoD tribute said 'his technical competency and professionalism shone brightly in Afghanistan.

He worked tirelessly despite soaring temperatures and was totally committed to his job.

'It is often said and never truer, he was a rising star, and a future leader.'

His platoon commander Lieutenant David True said: 'On patrol, Pte Murray was a thoroughly focused and effective soldier who was mature beyond his years.

'Off patrol, Murray was constantly entertaining and the origin of much of the platoon's morale.

'I cannot begin to express how much he brought to the platoon, he will be sorely missed.'

Shocked friends of Pte Murray left a series of messages on the social networking website Bebo last night.

They included 'Rest in Peace' and 'Never forgotten & always missed'.

Other friends, writing before his death, had sent messages of congratulations that he had qualified as a Paratrooper.

And the proud teenager had posted a series of pictures of himself in uniform, alongside more casual photographs of him drinking with friends.

He wrote: 'I live for the weekends and love it when a (sic) get time off work to come home and just get smashed 4 a week or two flat out wid the best mates Carlisle has to offer.'

He signed off with the word 'Airborne' - another reference to his cherished Paratrooper status.

He listed his sports as 'rugby and jumping out of planes'.

Blast takes UK Afghan toll to 100

One hundred UK personnel have died in Afghanistan since 2001

Three British soldiers have been killed in Afghanistan, bringing the number of UK troops killed there to 100 since 2001, the Ministry of Defence said.

The men, from 2nd Battalion the Parachute Regiment, were on foot patrol near their Helmand Province base when they were killed in a suicide attack.

Another man was injured in the blast. Their next of kin have been informed.

Defence Secretary Des Browne said his thoughts were with the loved ones of the 100 "courageous" personnel.

Suicide bomber

Brigadier Mark Carleton-Smith, commander of British forces in Helmand Province, said the foot patrol was returning to base through some villages when it was attacked by a single suicide bomber.

Reports suggest that the attack happened when an insurgent detonated a large explosive device strapped to his chest.

Asked if the attack could have been prevented, Brig Carleton-Smith said troops were inevitably at risk because of their need to work and live among the Afghan people.

But he said, by resorting to suicide tactics, the Taleban were demonstrating that they no longer enjoyed support amongst ordinary Afghans.

The injured soldier who survived Sunday's attack is expected to make a good recovery, the MoD confirmed.

The defence secretary expressed his sympathy for the relatives, friends and comrades of the latest casualties.

In Afghanistan our forces are engaged in a most worthy and noble endeavour Air Chief Marshal Sir Jock Stirrup Sir Jock and Des Browne statements Send us your comments

In a tribute to all the British casualties since 2001, Mr Browne added: "They gave their lives securing freedom and stability, not just for the people of Afghanistan but, as the tragic events of 9/11 showed, for all of us. We will never forget them."

He said that British troops had "transformed" the heartland of the Taleban from an area of lawless oppression and terrorism to a place of democracy and development.

Air Chief Marshal Sir Jock Stirrup paid tribute to 100 "brave and professional servicemen" who had died.

'Deepest sympathies'

He said he reflected on the most recent deaths with "both a sense of deep sadness and pride", saying the military effort was starting to achieve real change.

Sir Jock, who is Chief of the Defence Staff, said: "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."

The BBC's defence correspondent, Paul Adams, says some will question Mr Browne's and Sir Jock's "optimistic" assessments that British troops are helping to turn the tide of the conflict.

"With the country's central government weak and corrupt and Taleban influence still felt in much of the south this war has a long way to go," he said.

'Tragic reminder'

Conservative party leader David Cameron said the country owed "so much" to the servicemen and women fighting in Afghanistan.

"The death toll having now reached 100 serves as a tragic reminder of how brave and courageous they are."

Liberal Democrat leader Nick Clegg said that the cause for which the soldiers died was "a just one."

He added: "The consequences of failure in Afghanistan would be unimaginable - a boost to terrorists who seek to harm our way of life, an increase in hard drugs on our streets and terrible instability in an already unstable region."

Conservative MP Patrick Mercer, a former commanding officer in the British Army, told the BBC that it was time Nato member states began committing more of their forces to combat operations in southern Afghanistan.

He said: "I hope very much that our allies will continue to bear more of the burden than they have done in the past, particularly in things like close air support and artillery support.

"Our infantrymen and our armoured soldiers and our sappers are fighting a hard and difficult battle, and they need as much international support as they can possibly get."

Of the 100 personnel killed in Afghanistan since 2001, 74 have died as a result of hostile action.

The remaining deaths were caused by illness, accidents and non-combat injuries, or else their causes have yet to be formally classified.

The parents of Captain David Hicks, killed in Afghanistan in August 2007, remember their son