Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Soldier killed by blast is 299th to die in Afghanistan

Sam Marsden
Friday 18 June 2010 19:00 EDT
Comments

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

A British soldier has been killed by an explosion in southern Afghanistan, the Ministry of Defence said.

The serviceman, from The Royal Dragoon Guards, was guarding his comrades when he was hit by the blast in the Nahr-e Saraj District of Helmand Province yesterday afternoon. His family have been informed.

His death takes the number of British troops killed in Afghanistan since operations began to 299.

Lieutenant Colonel James Carr-Smith, a spokesman for Task Force Helmand, paid tribute to the soldier.

He said: "He was providing security for a patrol that was conducting a clearance operation when tragically he was struck by an explosion. He died doing his duty. He was a courageous and dedicated soldier who made the ultimate sacrifice. He will be greatly missed and his actions will not be forgotten. We will remember him."

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in