Menu
15/09/2008
Para Killed In Afghanistan Named
A British soldier killed while on routine patrol in the Taliban stronghold of Helmand Province, in southern Afghanistan, has been named as Lance Corporal Nicky Mason.
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) confirmed the 26-year-old's death today, bringing the total of British lives lost in the conflict to 120, since 2001.
The 2nd Battalion of the Parachute Regiment solider was killed by an explosion on Saturday, in the south of the country, where Taliban resistance remains strong.
Lieutenant Colonel Joe O'Sullivan, L/Cpl Mason's commanding officer, said he was part of the high-profile operation to move a turbine up to the Kajaki Dam, to provide electricity for the rest of Helmand.
He was described as a "dearly-loved" brother, son and friend by his family.
Major Simon Britton, Officer Commanding X Company at Kajaki, paid tribute to the young man.
"He was an excellent soldier undoubtedly, but his outstanding quality was his warmth and character.
"His ready smile was infectious and his effect upon the morale of those who lived and fought beside him will be truly missed."
British troops were deployed to Afghanistan in 2001, following a US-led invasion of the country, in the wake of terrorist attacks in New York.
Over the last three months Taliban fractions have stepped-up bombing campaigns, with increased roadside attacks and ambushes.
The east and south of the country remain the most deadly areas, with recent fighting creating the highest foreign troop casualties since the conflict began.
Of the 8,100 British troops based in Afghanistan, the majority have been deployed to Helmand.
The area is treacherous due to its barren landscape and river valleys that provide refuge for Taliban fighters.
(PR/JM)
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) confirmed the 26-year-old's death today, bringing the total of British lives lost in the conflict to 120, since 2001.
The 2nd Battalion of the Parachute Regiment solider was killed by an explosion on Saturday, in the south of the country, where Taliban resistance remains strong.
Lieutenant Colonel Joe O'Sullivan, L/Cpl Mason's commanding officer, said he was part of the high-profile operation to move a turbine up to the Kajaki Dam, to provide electricity for the rest of Helmand.
He was described as a "dearly-loved" brother, son and friend by his family.
Major Simon Britton, Officer Commanding X Company at Kajaki, paid tribute to the young man.
"He was an excellent soldier undoubtedly, but his outstanding quality was his warmth and character.
"His ready smile was infectious and his effect upon the morale of those who lived and fought beside him will be truly missed."
British troops were deployed to Afghanistan in 2001, following a US-led invasion of the country, in the wake of terrorist attacks in New York.
Over the last three months Taliban fractions have stepped-up bombing campaigns, with increased roadside attacks and ambushes.
The east and south of the country remain the most deadly areas, with recent fighting creating the highest foreign troop casualties since the conflict began.
Of the 8,100 British troops based in Afghanistan, the majority have been deployed to Helmand.
The area is treacherous due to its barren landscape and river valleys that provide refuge for Taliban fighters.
(PR/JM)
Related UK National News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
02 August 2010
More Soldiers Die In Afghanistan Conflict
Two more British troops have paid the ultimate price this past weekend after Taliban forces shot dead one British soldier and killed another in a bomb attack in Afghanistan's southern Helmand province.
More Soldiers Die In Afghanistan Conflict
Two more British troops have paid the ultimate price this past weekend after Taliban forces shot dead one British soldier and killed another in a bomb attack in Afghanistan's southern Helmand province.
16 October 2008
Household Cavalry Soldier Killed In Afghanistan
A British soldier has been killed while on patrol in the southern province of Afghanistan, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has announced. The soldier died after an explosion 14 miles north of the Taliban stronghold of Helmand yesterday. The MoD said the soldier had served in D Squadron of the Household Cavalry regiment.
Household Cavalry Soldier Killed In Afghanistan
A British soldier has been killed while on patrol in the southern province of Afghanistan, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has announced. The soldier died after an explosion 14 miles north of the Taliban stronghold of Helmand yesterday. The MoD said the soldier had served in D Squadron of the Household Cavalry regiment.
10 December 2007
PM's Christmas Tour Continues With Afghanistan
Prime Minister Gordon Brown has reaffirmed Britain's commitment to Afghanistan on security and economic development issues during a surprise visit to British troops in the country.
PM's Christmas Tour Continues With Afghanistan
Prime Minister Gordon Brown has reaffirmed Britain's commitment to Afghanistan on security and economic development issues during a surprise visit to British troops in the country.
03 July 2006
More troops for Afghanistan
More British troops are to be sent to Afghanistan, amid increased fighting with Taliban fighters, according to reports.
More troops for Afghanistan
More British troops are to be sent to Afghanistan, amid increased fighting with Taliban fighters, according to reports.
02 July 2009
Two UK Troops Die In Afghan Blast
A further two British soldiers have been killed in southern Afghanistan. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has confirmed they died in an explosion in Helmand province. Another six members of Nato forces were also wounded in the attack on Wednesday involving an improvised explosive device (IED).
Two UK Troops Die In Afghan Blast
A further two British soldiers have been killed in southern Afghanistan. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has confirmed they died in an explosion in Helmand province. Another six members of Nato forces were also wounded in the attack on Wednesday involving an improvised explosive device (IED).
-
Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
