3 RIFLES battlegroup marches through Edinburgh

More than 400 members of 3 Rifles battlegroup have marched along The Royal Mile from Castle Terrace to the Palace of Holyrood.

The battlegroup, which comprises 3 Battalion The Rifles and B Coy of the 1st Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland (1SCOTS), spent the last six-and-a-half months in the Sangin area of Helmand province.

Sadly, they lost 30 members of the 1,400-strong battlegroup whilst deployed.

Several thousand onlookers applauded the troops as they marched from Edinburgh Castle accompanied by The Band and Bugles of the Rifles.

The soldiers were saying thank you to the people of Edinburgh of their support while they were away in Afghanistan by marching down the Royal Mile.

3 RIFLES remember colleagues lost in Afghanistan

Over 400 members of 3rd Battalion The Rifles (3 RIFLES) Battle Group marched along Colinton Road in Edinburgh this morning to remember their colleagues who did not return from their recent deployment to Afghanistan.

The soldiers marched from Redford and Dreghorn Barracks to Colinton Parish Church for a memorial service to honour those that died during the battle group's six-month tour of Afghanistan from October 2009 to April 2010.

Several thousand onlookers applauded the troops as they marched from their barracks to the church accompanied by the Band and Bugles of The Rifles and the Band of The Royal Regiment of Scotland.

During their deployment, the battle group, which comprised 3rd Battalion The Rifles and B Company of 1st Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland, were in the Sangin area of Helmand province.

30 members of the 1,400-strong battle group were lost.

The Sangin area of Helmand is widely regarded as one of the most difficult areas of operation for International Security Assistance Force troops in Afghanistan.

3 RIFLES worked with the Afghan National Army and Afghan National Police to provide security in the area.

3 RIFLES have now been replaced in Sangin by the Royal Marines of 40 Commando.

Following today's march and service the soldiers will return to the streets tomorrow, Saturday 8 May 2010, to say thank you to the people of Edinburgh for their support while they were away in Afghanistan by marching down the Royal Mile from Johnston Terrace to Holyrood Palace at 1030 hrs.

Behind the headlines, what is it like to fight in Afghanistan?

The 3rd Battalion of the Rifles Regiment has just returned from a six-month tour of duty in the country.

Among their number is Major Richard Streatfeild. During the tour, he commanded "A Company" 4 Rifles, attached to 3 Rifles in Battlegroup North, from a base in the upper Sangin valley where the heaviest of the fighting has been so far. The BBC have been be following his progress over the past months.

For a full insight into life on tour in Helmand click here for the blog on the BBC website.

3 RIFLES improve security along Helmand road

Riflemen from B Company, 3rd Battalion the Rifles (3 RIFLES), have been undertaking an operation to maintain security on Route 611 through Helmand province, thereby improving freedom of movement in the area.

Based at Forward Operating Base Jackson, Sangin, since October 2009, B Company has been working closely with Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF) to secure the area to allow locals to go about their normal lives.

Thanks partly to the ability of ISAF and ANSF to maintain security on Route 611, the primary route which connects the town to the outlying communities, the Sangin bazaar has grown considerably recently.

Operation GHARTSE GHADMAHE 5 was the latest move by Combined Force Sangin to improve freedom of movement on Route 611, with the soldiers creating new checkpoints and improved culverts that are harder for the insurgents to lay IEDs in.

Captain Warren Marginson, Second-in-Command of B Company, explained:

"Route 611 is vital to the local economy of Sangin, and securing it is one of our primary responsibilities."

While Sappers from the Royal Engineers set about construction and culvert work, B Company Riflemen from 4 Platoon and Recce Platoon secured the area to the south to allow the work to go ahead unhindered.

Serjeant Lee Slater, Recce Platoon, commented:

"We attracted quite a lot of attention from the insurgents when we moved into our positions.

"The fact that they were concentrating their attacks on us and not the engineers means that the plan was working - even if it was a bit hectic at times."

For over 72 hours B Company remained in position and repulsed numerous insurgent attacks. After the initial onslaught, attacks petered out as the insurgents accepted defeat.

With the construction work completed, Route 611 is now more secure.

Captain Marginson said:

"The stream of local nationals heading along Route 611 is the best indicator of the progress we are making in Sangin."

Rifleman Mark Turner killed in Afghanistan

It is with sadness that the Ministry of Defence must confirm that Rifleman Mark Turner from 3rd Battalion, The Rifles was killed in Afghanistan on Sunday 4 April 2010.


Rifleman Turner was killed as a result of an explosion that happened while he was on a foot patrol against insurgents near Forward Operating Base Zeebrugge, in the Kajaki area of Helmand Province.

Rifleman Mark Turner

Rifleman Mark Turner was born on 11 October 1988. He grew up in Gateshead and was educated at Thomas Hepburn Community School and then went to work as a panel beater before joining the Army.

Rifleman Turner joined the Army in January 2006 at the age of eighteen, completing phase one training before joining Second Battalion the Light Infantry in the summer of 2006. Rifleman Turner was a trained Assault Pioneer and Team Medic and had been on several overseas exercises including Kenya and Belize. He had already been on one previous tour of duty in Afghanistan from September 2006 to April 2007 during which he was injured in a road traffic accident.

Rifleman Turner was killed on 04 April 2010 when an improvised explosive device detonated while he was patrolling with his platoon to the north of Kajaki, in Helmand, Afghanistan. He leaves behind his family and fiancée.

Rifleman Turner's family made the following statement:

"Mark was a proper Mammy's boy described by his loving family as being ‘daft as a brush'. He was a fanatical supporter of Newcastle United who looked forward to their imminent return to the Premier League, boasting about the fact that he had managed to watch the recent match against Nottingham Forest whilst out in Afghanistan.

"Mark loved to play poker and he also enjoyed listening to all types of music, having a distinct like of Dean Martin songs. He loved his food and regularly took up his passion of devouring cheese pizzas; however in food terms, nothing could surpass his desire of yellow Telly Tubby biscuits, sent out to him by his family.

"His fiancée said that he always insisted on perfection and referred to their affection when Mark said they were both like ‘peas and carrots'. Mark will be dearly missed by his mother Anne, fiancée Liesha, stepfather Joe, brother David and three sisters Lisa, Joanne and Julie."

Lieutenant Colonel Nick Kitson, Commanding Officer 3 RIFLES Battle Group said:

"Rifleman Mark Turner was a remarkable young man who took in his stride the toughest and most dangerous job available here in Afghanistan. Daily he took responsibility for the lives of his friends by putting himself out in front and clearing the ground of the deadly devices left by insurgents with nothing to call on but a metal detector and his own instincts. It typifies the selfless can-do, the unflinching get-on-with-the-job attitude of our Riflemen to see young men such as he carrying out this task willingly, without thought for their own safety, merely for that of their friends and comrades.

"Rifleman Turner was a much loved and respected member of his Company and of this Battle Group. His conduct and talents were nothing short of exemplary and he was blessed with a smile and a joke for every occasion. The kind of stoicism, humour and determination he showed on a daily basis is something of which our nation can be very proud. He has made an invaluable contribution to the marked achievements of his Company around the strategically crucial area of the Kajaki Dam in the very north of Helmand.

"Rifleman Turned died doing a job he loved and for which he had a prolific talent. His brothers in arms will miss both the security and confidence he provided and the warmth of his wit and friendship. His loss is a tragedy and is felt most keenly by all in the Battle Group. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and his fiancée Leisha at this terrible time. We know that they will remember him as we do; as an exceptional soldier and a loving, loyal friend."

Rifleman Daniel Holkham killed in Afghanistan

It is with regret that the Ministry of Defence must confirm the death of Rifleman Daniel Holkham, from 3rd Battalion The Rifles, serving with 3 RIFLES Battle Group, who was killed in Afghanistan on Saturday 27 March 2010.


Rfn Holkham, aged 19, died in an explosion that was caused by a suicide bomber, who detonated a device near to the Sangin Bazaar.

Rifleman Daniel Holkham

Rifleman Daniel 'Danny' Holkham was born in Chatham on 2 August 1990. He attended Minster College in Sheerness achieving an NVQ in engineering before enlisting to join the Army at the age of sixteen.

Rifleman Holkham gained a place at the Army Foundation College in Harrogate where he completed his phase one training prior to going to the Infantry Training Centre, Catterick for his Infantry specific education.

On completion in April 2008 he joined 3 RIFLES in Edinburgh and was posted to 4 Platoon, B Company.

He took part in the Battalion exercise in Kenya later that year and then the pre-deployment build up training for operations in Afghanistan throughout 2009.

Rifleman Holkham deployed to Afghanistan in September 2009 and was working with his Platoon from a patrol base in central Sangin to provide security and development to the local people.

He was killed on 27 March 2010 when he stopped a suicide bomber who then detonated a device just outside the Sangin Bazaar.

Rifleman Holkham leaves behind his parents Rodney and Tracy, his girlfriend Nikki, and his two brothers Andrew and Matthew who are both serving with 3 RIFLES.

Rifleman Holkham's family said:

"The loss of our son Danny has left a huge hole in our lives and that of his brothers and friends that can never again be filled. He served his country faithfully and with great pride."

Lieutenant Colonel Nick Kitson, Commanding Officer, 3 RIFLES Battle Group said:

"Daniel Holkham was a model Rifleman; robust, bright and dedicated, he was everything a commander could hope for and more. Joining us a year before our build up training for this deployment, he had ample opportunity to show that he had both quality and potential in abundance.

"There is no doubt that a bright future lay ahead of this young man and it is a tragedy that he has been robbed of the opportunity to fulfil it.

"Rifleman Holkham was well established as the lead man in his patrol, responsible for searching the ground for buried explosive devices to allow his patrol to pass safely.

"The selflessness and professionalism required to carry out this task, day after day, in the most challenging of environments, is one of the most humbling things to witness.

"Rifleman Holkham carried out this task diligently, willingly and with plenty of professional pride, such was his dedication to his fellow Riflemen. He died at the head of his patrol, another unquestioningly courageous Rifleman intercepting a crazed suicide bomber before he could cause havoc in the Sangin bazaar.

"The loss of a Rifleman so full of promise is a devastating blow to the Battle Group but we will draw inspiration from his example and continue undeterred in carrying out the valuable work for which he laid down his life.

"The thoughts and prayers of this whole Battle Group are very much with his family at this most difficult time. We know that they remember him, as we do, with happiness and pride. We all and draw comfort and inspiration from his honoured memory."

Serjeant Steven Campbell killed in Afghanistan

It is with regret that the Ministry of Defence must confirm that Serjeant Steven Campbell, from 3rd Battalion The Rifles, was killed in Afghanistan on Monday 22 March 2010.


Serjeant Campbell, aged 30, was killed when an improvised explosive device detonated while he was patrolling with his Platoon around 3km south of Sangin district centre.

Serjeant Steven Campbell

Serjeant Steven Campbell was born in Durham on 9 May 1979. He joined the Army on 28 April 1998 at the age of eighteen, completing phase one training in December that year before joining Second Battalion the Light Infantry.

Serjeant Campbell completed the required courses to be promoted through the ranks to corporal before being posted as an instructor to the Army Foundation College in 2003. In 2005 he returned to the Battalion, now based in Edinburgh.

He passed the Platoon Serjeants Battle Course and was promoted to the rank of Serjeant in October 2006. He worked as a Platoon Serjeant in B Company 3 RIFLES after formation, before again being sent to instruct recruits at the Infantry Training Centre in Catterick in 2008.

Serjeant Campbell returned to 3 RIFLES during the Battalion's current deployment to Sangin, in Helmand Province. He was originally sent to B Company to assist the Company Headquarters but on 10 March he was sent to A Company to take on the role of Platoon Serjeant.

He leaves behind his wife Lisa, son Brandon, and his parents.

His family have made the following statement:

"Serjeant Steven Campbell was born on 9 May 1979, he lived in Pelton, Chester le Street in Co Durham. He was a loving husband to Lisa and a loving father to Brandon, and he will be missed by all his family and friends."

Lieutenant Colonel Nick Kitson, Commanding Officer, 3 RIFLES Battle Group said:

"Serjeant Steve Campbell was one of the army's rarest treasures. So positive and energetic, it was truly an honour and a pleasure to know him and to have him with this Battle Group. He returned to the Battalion from Catterick just under two months ago, full of enthusiasm to get stuck in. Initially disappointed with a Headquarters post, he nonetheless happily put his shoulder to the wheel, immediately adding tremendous value.

"When the opportunity arose Serjeant Campbell jumped at the chance to get back out on the ground. A warrior to his core, he was delighted to return to real soldiering, relishing the opportunity to be in the thick of things alongside his fellow Riflemen. It was our good fortune to have such a man to bring his infectious enthusiasm and inspirational leadership to the younger men of a hard-pressed Platoon on the frontline of this most tough fight.

"His boundless energy, positivity and vivacity reinvigorated his men and it is the cruellest of tragedies that he was taken in his prime. Such was his impact, though, that nothing will erase the indelible mark he had made there in just a few days.

"Serjeant Campbell epitomised selfless commitment and everything it means to be a Rifleman. Nothing was too much trouble for him; his needs always came last. He has been held in the highest regard, his memory remains a beacon of light as we continue building on the success to which he has contributed much. Fit, capable and versatile, he was a Commanding Officer's dream, guaranteed to complete any task in any sphere and to do it to the highest standard. He had such a promising future, it is impossible to quantify what this Regiment has lost. He will be sorely missed by us all.

"We take comfort from the fact that he died doing a job he loved, with people who cared deeply for him. He thought of nothing but the welfare of his men, the success of our mission and a better future for this troubled land. His loss is a devastating blow but we shall steel ourselves all the more, remaining true to his exemplary energy and determination. Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers go out to his wife and son, but also to his wider family, friends and loved ones."

If you think the 3 Rifles heroes of Afghanistan are brave, meet their families

By Robert Hardman

Captain Craig McBurney quietly leaves the room, his mobile phone pressed to his ear.

A mother is on the line, understandably distraught having just learned that her son has been shot.
Keeping busy: Kim Harrison and daughter Brooke, four

The young man will pull through and has been well enough to call her from his hospital bed in Afghanistan.

But she is in shock. 'The poor woman was on the floor in pieces,' says Capt McBurney when he returns.

He introduces me to a group of Army wives who can now dare to contemplate that longed-for moment - next month's reunion with their husbands.

Are they ticking off the days? Some shake their heads.

'Tempting fate,' says one. Deborah Fleming, on the other hand, tells me she is counting down to the two big stars on her calendar. One marks Rifleman John Fleming's return home. The other, days later, is the due date for their baby.

Capt McBurney has to slide out of the room again. It turns out that a recuperating double amputee needs help with a hospital appointment. His phone rings once more.

The parents of a dead Rifleman are desperate to retrieve their son's camera and its precious images from Afghanistan.

In fact, Capt McBurney's phone hardly stops. It might be a soldier's wife having a late-night panic attack. It might be a dawn alert from a Casualty Notifying Officer at the door of a family whose life is about to fall apart.

Capt McBurney, 41, treats every caller with equal concern; he's off to Afghanistan himself next year.

But in his 25 years in the Army, he has never known a six-month spell like this one. And nor has anyone else round here, for that matter.

Capt McBurney is the welfare officer for the 3rd Battalion of The Rifles, known as 3 Rifles - the most battle-scarred unit in the British Army.

Little wonder that they will shortly receive the ultimate accolade for an English battalion - a homecoming parade the full length of Edinburgh's Royal Mile.

And if you think these troops are brave, then just meet their families.

We have heard a lot about The Rifles and their work recently. All too often, though, the reports have concluded with the same heart-sinking phrase: 'The families have been informed.'

Just last night, we learned that another member of 3 Rifles had made the ultimate sacrifice.

Back in Britain, Capt McBurney and the battalion's rear operations team have become horribly familiar with the rituals of RAF Lyneham and Wootton Bassett.

This is because 3 Rifles are currently based around Sangin, the most dangerous place on Earth for a British soldier.

That is, in no way, to diminish the threat faced by so many brave men and women elsewhere in Afghanistan. Only last week, the Royal Anglians, based in Musa Qala, lost three of their finest.

But since deploying in Sangin last autumn, the 3 Rifles Battle Group (which includes troops from other units, like posthumous bomb disposal hero, Olaf Schmid GC) has seen 28 men killed and many more horribly injured.

Their immediate predecessors in the same place, 2 Rifles, endured similar losses last year. Military chiefs have described it as 'the most kinetic tour' of the entire Afghan campaign. A civilian translation might be: 'a bloody nightmare'.

Yes, The Rifles have unquestionably made great strides in ousting the Taliban and restoring a semblance of normality to their corner of Helmand Province.

But, as a regiment, they have now lost more in Afghanistan (44 men) than any regiment, including the Paras, lost in the Falklands. According to the National Army Museum, you have to go back to the Korean War to find a sadder regimental casualty list.

One band of Riflemen - A Company's 2nd Platoon - arrived in Sangin with 27 men last October. Of that original number, just 11 are still there. In the first week of this month alone, six Riflemen gave their lives for Queen and country.

The atmosphere is summed up by one recent visitor who describes the sight of elite, battle-hardened troops throwing up their breakfasts as they set off on patrol. And there is still another month of this tour to go.

None of us can comprehend what it is like to be in Sangin right now - except through the powerful dispatches of BBC2's Newsnight's Mark Urban - so I have come to battalion HQ to see the other side of the regimental story.

John Milton observed: 'They also serve who only stand and wait.' And here at Redford Barracks in the Edinburgh suburb of Colinton, they are doing just that.

As one young mother says: 'Just the sight of a strange car in the street turns you cold. You think: "Have they come to knock on my door?".'

Most of the huge Edwardian facade stands empty today. But there is plenty of activity in a converted blockhouse off to the side. Known as 'Sharpe's Retreat', named after the fictional 19th century Rifleman of book and television fame, this is the new battalion welfare centre.

Opened last month by the battalion's Royal Colonel, Princess Alexandra, it is buzzing with young children playing in the family room, while a local cook does a cake-making display.

It's fantastic to have a place like this because there are times when you suddenly don't want to be at home on your own,' says Kim Harrison, 31, wife of Regimental Serjeant Major Robert Harrison.

Ellen Longmate, 32, wife of Serjeant Major James Longmate, is arranging a sale of 3 Rifles sweatshirts ('My Daddy My Hero') for the battalion's charity appeal.

Every week or two during the tour, they get brief, garbled telephone calls from their loved ones but they admit that it is never easy.

'The families always just want to reassure the men that all is well even if it's not,' says Ellen, 'and the men want to do the same at their end.'

'It's good to give yourselves projects,' says Kitty Kitson, 38. 'It doesn't matter if you don't get it all done. But it keeps you busy.' Kitty has plenty on her mind.

Not only is she looking after three young children (and expecting her fourth) but she is the wife of Lt-Col Nick Kitson, 40, the inspirational commanding officer of the 550 men of 3 Rifles.

When two of his men were killed intercepting a suicide bomber outside Sangin's bazaar, Lt-Col Kitson was out patrolling the same spot himself the following day to reassure the locals that the Rifles would not budge.

Kitty's big project is raising funds for the battalion's 'Swift And Bold' wristband appeal to help the bereaved and injured - see www.swiftandbold.org. Boris Johnson and Jean-Claude van Damme are among the latest to adopt the must-have, green bracelets.

As the CO's wife, she is also an ambassador to the local community. This is particularly important because The Rifles are so new.

Created in 2007 through a merger of gallant names like the Royal Greenjackets and The Light Infantry, their military DNA goes back to Pegasus Bridge, Flanders, Waterloo and beyond.

But they are a fresh creation - and an English one to boot. While their permanent home is Scotland, most of 3 Rifles have been recruited from Yorkshire and the North-East.

However, Kitty Kitson and all the other wives on 'The Patch' have been bowled over by their Scottish neighbours. 'There is a real love for us in this community. It's very touching,' she says.

For the full story click here for the MailOnline

3 RIFLES solider tackles live Taleban hand grenade

A soldier of 3 RIFLES has been talking about his decision to pick up a live Taleban hand grenade and throw it back in an attempt to save himself and his comrades.

Rifleman James McKie from Recce Platoon, 3rd Battalion The Rifles was under fire from three directions when the hand grenade hit his Platoon commander and landed at his feet.



“My first thought was I hope this doesn’t hurt too much” he said. “That, and I’ve really only got one chance to do this. If it fails, either way, doing nothing, I’m going to get the same amount of hurt. So I picked it up and threw it off the roof”.
The actions of Rifleman McKie helped to save the lives of his Commander and one other soldier who were engaging the enemy in a fire fight, from a compound roof, in the Sangin area of Helmand Province.

“The fire was disciplined and accurate. I managed to spot one of the firing points and I engaged with my GPMG to suppress the enemy. After a few minutes they stopped firing and we continued observing to the east. It must have been no more than five minutes and then I heard what sounded like a mini flare come from our right where I knew there were none of our guys, so I thought this was really unusual. It was actually the fly-off lever of a grenade that had been thrown from the alleyway below”.

Rifleman McKie sustained fragmentation injuries to his right arm and face as the grenade exploded mid air, close to where he stood.



Fragmentation also hit his Platoon Commander Captain Graeme Kerr who sustained injuries to his leg and who is recovering at Selly Oak Hospital in the UK.

“We were in a high position on a compound roof. There was no way you could throw yourself off and not get injured, so I made a decision to pick up the grenade and throw it off the roof. And I threw it quite deliberately. I tried to throw it properly, to clear the roof. I didn’t want to do it half arsed and have them throw it back at us or anything like that. I remember thinking that if I didn’t pull this off, it was going to hurt. But at that stage I was pretty much committed.

“My platoon has taken a lot of casualties. I really didn’t want to see anyone else get hurt. So I committed to that course of action. It was dropping down into the alleyway before it detonated. As I continued to watch it, as you are trained to, I received fragmentation in my face and right arm. Because of the way Captain Kerr was positioned, he got a larger piece of fragmentation in his left leg, but otherwise no-one else was seriously hurt”.

Rifleman McKie then threw smoke to cover their withdrawal and with Captain Kerr and his section, withdrew, firing and manoeuvring until they reached the safety of another compound. Captain Kerr was immediately evacuated by helicopter, but Rifleman McKie was able to continue in his duties until the following day when he was evacuated to Bastion, despite his protests to stay.

“In retrospect, people keep telling me how brave I am, which I’m slightly embarrassed about. I’d like to think that anyone in that situation would have done the same or something similar because you can’t just sit there and let yourself or other people get hurt. I don’t feel particularly brave. I thought: I have to do this to survive. Not just for myself but for the guys around me as well. I’m not expecting anything from them, I don’t want any thanks from them, I just don’t want them to get hurt.

Rifleman McKie recently joined the British Army, having previously served in the New Zealand Army. “I love soldiering”, he said. “I love being here in Afghanistan. Obviously bad things happen and I can’t go back and change it, but what I can do is try and stop things happening around me. As far as the military experience goes, this is the ultimate for a career soldier. I understand there are a lot of people out here who don’t like it, who can’t wait to get home, that’s their opinion and I have to respect that, but this is what I want to do”.

Rifleman Liam Maughan of 3 RIFLES killed in Afghanistan

It is with great sadness that the Ministry of Defence must confirm the death of Rifleman Liam Maughan of 3rd Battalion The Rifles (3 RIFLES).



Rifleman Maughan died from wounds received as a result of small arms fire which occurred near Sangin, in Helmand province, during the morning of Saturday 6 March 2010.

Rifleman Liam Maughan

Liam Maughan was born in Doncaster on 6 July 1991. He attended Hatfield Visual Arts College before joining the Army on 6 January 2008 when he was sent for initial training at the Army Foundation College in Harrogate. Upon completion of his course, he was sent for Phase Two training at the Infantry Training Centre in Catterick, completing this in March 2009.

Rifleman Maughan arrived with 3rd Battalion The Rifles in Edinburgh on 30 March 2009 and joined B Company for their pre-deployment training. He deployed to Sangin, Afghanistan, with 5 Platoon in September 2009 where he was employed as a sharpshooter in his patrol. His platoon are based out of a new patrol base in central Sangin and have been conducting regular patrols and operations to bring reassurance and security to the local population.

Rifleman Maughan was shot and killed while in a position of overwatch, providing protection to his platoon as they engaged with the local population. He leaves behind his parents, girlfriend, and newborn son.

Rifleman Maughan's family said:

"Liam was a tall, handsome six-footer, with looks to melt the heart of any girl and make men envious, but he was also a son and a brother, a fiance and a father to his own son who he will now never meet.

"This cruel and premature departure from us leaves dreams unfulfilled, potentials unrealised and a massive irreparable hole in the lives of everyone who knew him."

Lieutenant Colonel Nick Kitson, Commanding Officer, 3 RIFLES Battle Group, said:

"The loss of such a keen, dedicated and promising Rifleman is a devastating blow to the Battle Group. Rifleman Maughan, at the age of eighteen, had already ably demonstrated his clear potential. Capable, enthusiastic, courageous and loyal, he had all the attributes of the best kind of Rifleman. He has been an absolute credit to his family and our nation, typical of the young men of today who are putting their lives on the line in the service of their mates, their country and a better future for this region.

"Selfless and committed, he died working tirelessly to provide security and hope for the local people of Sangin who may never know nor understand the great sacrifice that he has made on their behalf. Rifleman Maughan was loved by those who stood alongside him and will be sorely missed by us all, his comrades.

"Our thoughts and prayers are very much with Rifleman Maughan's infant son, as they are with the rest of his family, and we hope that he may grow up to understand just how great a sacrifice his father made in the service of his country. We pray also that both family and loved ones may find comfort in the memory of such a selfless, courageous and dedicated Rifleman. We shall carry on his good work undaunted as he would wish."

Rifleman Jonathon Allott of 3 RIFLES killed in Afghanistan

It is with deep regret that the Ministry of Defence has confirmed the death of Rifleman Jonathon Allott of 3rd Battalion The Rifles (3 RIFLES).



Rifleman Allott died from wounds received as a result of an explosion which occurred near Sangin, in Helmand province, during the morning of Friday 5 March 2010.

Rifleman Jonathon Allott

Jonathon Michael Allott was born in North Shields on 31 May 1990. He attended Kings High School in his home town of Bournemouth before becoming an apprentice bricklayer.

On 16 November 2008 he enlisted to join the Army and was sent for training at the Infantry Training Centre in Catterick, completing this at the end of May 2009. He joined 3rd Battalion The Rifles in Edinburgh in June 2009 and joined B Company for their pre-deployment training.

Rifleman Allott deployed to Sangin, Afghanistan, in September 2009 where he was employed as the front man in his patrol, responsible for clearing the ground of improvised explosive devices.

His platoon was working out of a patrol base in the centre of Sangin and, alongside their Afghan National Army partners, were providing security and reassurance to the local population.

Rifleman Allott died from his wounds following an IED blast whilst deployed on an operation to insert a new patrol base. He leaves behind his parents, sister and two brothers.

Rifleman Allott's family said:

"Jonathon Michael Allott (Jonny) died a hero doing the job he loved - he will be sorely missed by the whole family and all who knew him. He had a wish that his brothers could have shared his experiences with him. Jonathon couldn't wait to get home and wear his medal with pride."

Lieutenant Colonel Nick Kitson, Commanding Officer, 3 RIFLES Battle Group, said:

"Rifleman Jonathon Allott was an inspirational young man in so many ways. His warm and friendly nature endeared him to all whose path he crossed but belied the streak of steel that ran through him making him a true warrior.

"Having arrived with us some nine months ago, he had already made a name for himself as someone for whom nothing was too much trouble, whether it was taking time to talk to a fellow Rifleman or clearing the ground of deadly IEDs for his platoon to pass safely. There is no doubt that he had a promising future. This Battle Group has lost a respected brother-in-arms and our nation one of its very best sons.

"Rifleman Allott died doing a job that he loved and for which he had a natural talent. Giving, determined and selfless, he was, with his fellow Riflemen, bringing security and development to the impoverished and oppressed locals of Sangin. For their tomorrow he gave his own.

"The Battle Group will miss him most keenly. His family and loved ones are very much in our thoughts and prayers. We know that they will remember him, as we do, with great pride, taking comfort from the memory of a courageous, smiling and promising young Rifleman."

Corporal Richard Green killed in Afghanistan

It is with regret that the Ministry of Defence must confirm that Corporal Richard Green from 3rd Battalion The Rifles (3 RIFLES) was killed in Afghanistan on Tuesday 2 March 2010.



Corporal Green died as a result of small arms fire near Sangin in Helmand province.

Corporal Richard Green

Corporal Richard Green was born on 4 September 1986 in Reading. He attended Little Heath Secondary School, gaining a GNVQ (General National Vocational Qualification) in Leisure and Tourism before joining the Army on 4 August 2003 at the age of sixteen.

He attended Phase One training at the Army Training Regiment in Bassingbourn, before reporting to the Infantry Training Centre Catterick in January 2004 for his infantry specific training.

Corporal Green successfully completed a Junior Non-Commissioned Officer cadre within a year of arriving at 3 RIFLES and, a year after that, had completed the demanding Section Commanders' Battle Course to qualify him for promotion to Corporal.

Corporal Green deployed to Afghanistan in September 2009 with 3 RIFLES Recce Platoon. Following five months of patrolling and operating in the town of Sangin, he was sent with his team to a patrol base to work alongside his Afghan National Army partners to bring stability and development to local Afghans.

He leaves behind his father Chris, his mother Eileen, and his brother and sister, Daniel and Charlotte.

Corporal Green's family made the following statement:

"Richard was a larger than life character who packed so much into his short life. In his own words he was the 'Greenmeister', a true legend. He wouldn't want any of us mourning his death, rather he would want us all to celebrate his life. On his recent R&R Richard said 'If anything happens to me know that I've lived life to the full, have no regrets, and love my job.'

"We are so proud of him and will miss him more than words can ever say, but we do take comfort from the thought that, if there is a heaven, he is now having a laugh with his friends whose lives have been taken, just like his, over the past year."

Lieutenant Colonel Nick Kitson, Commanding Officer, 3 RIFLES Battle Group, said:

"Corporal Richard Green was a man at the very top of his game. Having breezed through courses that test even the best of young Riflemen, he showed himself, at the age of 23, to be up to any challenge that the Army could throw at him.

"Out here the Reconnaissance Platoon has constantly been in the thick of it. Corporal Green has never faltered nor taken a backward step, leading others selflessly, both by his example and his compelling personality.

"In the field and on operations he has been in his element, setting the highest standards and excelling in every way.

"The Battle Group has lost one of its most capable young commanders and his sudden absence leaves both a large gap and a heavier burden.

"We shall continue his work with renewed vigour. Cut down by a gunman hiding in the shadows, Corporal Green died whilst standing firm and proud alongside the Afghan Warriors who are increasingly taking security responsibility from the British troops here.

"Running a vehicle checkpoint as morning traffic headed into the vibrant bazaar, they were there for no other purpose than to give the locals of Sangin, and this region, a better future. Chosen for this mentoring role precisely because of his ability, maturity and breadth of vision, his enduring contribution in supporting and developing the local security forces cannot be overstated.

"The thoughts and prayers of this entire Battle Group go out to Corporal Green's family and loved ones. We know that they will remember him, as we do, with nothing but pride, drawing comfort and strength from his revered memory."

Rifleman Mark Marshall killed in Afghanistan

It is with regret that the Ministry of Defence must confirm that Rifleman Mark Marshall from 6th BATTALION, THE RIFLES, serving with 3 RIFLEs Battle Group was killed in Afghanistan on Sunday 14 February 2010.
Rifleman Marshall was killed when an IED detonated while he was on a routine foot patrol providing reassurance and security to the local population near Forward Operating Base Inkerman to the north east of Sangin in Helmand province.

Rifleman Mark Marshall

Rifleman Mark Marshall was born in Exeter on 24 March 1980. He went to Saint Peters Church of England High School in Exeter where he gained a BTEC in Public Services before joining the Police as a Community Support Officer.

Rifleman Marshall joined 6 RIFLES, a Territorial Army Battalion, in October 2007 and attended training at the Infantry Training Centre in Catterick in October 2008. He completed an Assault Pioneer Cadre prior to mobilising to serve with the 3 RIFLES BG on Op HERRICK 11 in June 2009.

Rifleman Marshall was posted to C Company 3 RIFLES with whom he completed pre-deployment training before deploying to Kajaki in Northern Helmand. He served in Kajaki for two months before his Platoon was sent to occupy a Patrol Base in the northern part of the town of Sangin. Throughout this time Rifleman Marshall was employed as the point man in his patrol, charged with the clearance of the ground of Improvised Explosive Devices.

He leaves behind his mother, Lynn, his girlfriend, Hayley, and his brother and sister, Alex and Jo.

His mother, Mrs Lynn Marshall, paid the following tribute:

"I am hugely proud of my dear and beloved son; he lived life to the full and will be sorely missed by all."

Taliban make children plant IEDs to thwart Army snipers

By Christopher Leake, Mail on Sunday

Corporal Tony Duncan gives sweets to Afghan children

Boys as young as 12 are being used by the Taliban to plant bombs designed to kill and maim British troops in Afghanistan.

Army commanders say insurgents are forcing children to lay improvised explosive devices (IEDs) because they know they will not be shot by British snipers.

Senior military sources say the children’s parents and families are likely to have been threatened by the Taliban to allow their sons to carry out the dangerous task.

Details of the new tactic were revealed last night in Sangin, Helmand Province, where soldiers of the 3 Rifles Battle Group have been fighting the Taliban for the past four months.

Troops say they have seen insurgents sending out boys to lay IEDs, sometimes only 150 yards from British positions.

A senior Army source said: ‘The Taliban know that if they get caught in the sights of our snipers, they don’t last long, so they have resorted to hiding behind compound walls and directing children to plant bombs for them.

‘Lots of home-made IEDs detonate before they have even been laid, but the Taliban don’t seem to care whether a child gets killed or maimed. Some boys are as young as 12.’

In neighbouring Musa Qaleh district, where Prince Harry’s Household Cavalry Battle Group operates, child victims of IEDs are common. Many come from poor farming families. They unwittingly pick up detonators to play with them, only to have hands blown off.

Surgeon Lieutenant Colonel Jedge Lewin, 41, the Household Cavalry Battle Group’s doctor, said: ‘In the past few days alone, we have had five cases of children who have been exposed to blasts causing severe damage to, or loss of, hands and fingers.

‘Children can pick up devices when they are playing or handle detonators when forced to plant the bombs. This is a cowardly Taliban tactic and when children are suffering the consequences, it’s particularly sickening.’

The use of children, however, is fuelling defections from the Taliban. Captain Rolly Spiller, of the Household Cavalry, who was injured on a previous tour by an IED, said: ‘We’ve had former Taliban fighters come to us and say,

“I have children now. I don’t want them to be blown up.”’

A British hearts and minds campaign in Sangin and Musa Qaleh is also said to be weakening the Taliban’s grip.

Capt Spiller added: ‘Local farmers are realising they have no real quarrel with us. Many of them would rather go back to farming and selling their goods in the local bazaar.

‘The Musa Qaleh bazaar is now thriving, with a livestock market, attracting about 3,000 people every week. The Sangin bazaar, once a ghost town, has more than 200 stalls open daily.’

Every day, men and women from the Royal Logistics Corps and the Royal Engineers find and defuse IEDs, often using their fingertips just inches from the devices.

‘They are real heroes of this campaign,’ said Major Rob Philipson-Stow, second-in-command of the Household Cavalry Battle Group. ‘The way they approach their jobs is phenomenal.’

TALIBAN COWARDS SEND CHILDREN TO PLANT BOMBS

By Marco Giannangeli, Sunday Express


BOYS as young as 12 are being sent to lay roadside bombs near British bases in Afghanistan.

While Taliban fighters cower behind walls, out of sight of British snipers, the children run the risk of carrying the rudimentary and highly volatile explosive devices which sometimes explode before they can be positioned.

Lieutenant Colonel Jedge Lewin, 41, a surgeon with 3 Rifles Battle Group in Sangrin, northern Helmand said: “In the past few days alone we have had five cases of children who have been exposed to blasts which have caused severe damage to or loss of hands and fingers.

“Children can pick up small explosive devices when they are playing or handle detonators when forced to plant IEDs. This is a cowardly ­Taliban tactic and when children are suffering the consequences, it’s particularly sickening.”

Last night Colonel Richard Kemp, former head of British forces in Afghanistan, said: “The Taliban have long used civilians, men and women, to draw enemy fire from their positions and the recent use of young children is a sad extension of this. It shows that they’re increasingly desperate. Tactics like this cannot be used indefinitely.”

The vile tactic is being used as thousands of British, US and Afghan troops mount the biggest push in the campaign so far to eliminate the last Taliban strongholds in Helmand Province. More than 9,500 British troops have been joined by 30,000 US marines and a large force of Afghan National Army soldiers in the biggest offensive since the conflict began in 2001. Operation Moshtarak, which means “work together”, will force insurgents out of all populated areas by the end of the year. It comes as the man in charge of all coalition forces, General Stanley McChrystal, said the situation in Afghanistan was “no longer deteriorating”.

The operation will target Taliban positions that commanders have not been able to attack due to a lack of manpower and is part two of a three-part strategy. Part one secured areas in the south, around Kandahar, and improved communications in Helmand province.

Lance Corporal Daniel Cooper of 3 RIFLES killed in Afghanistan

It is with deep regret that the Ministry of Defence must confirm the death of Lance Corporal Daniel Cooper from 3rd Battalion The Rifles.

Lance Corporal Cooper died from wounds received as a result of an explosion near Sangin, in Helmand province, during the morning of 24 January 2010.

Lance Corporal Daniel Cooper, 3 RIFLES

Daniel Cooper was born in Hereford on 10 March 1988. He went to Whitecross High School before enlisting and going to the Army Training Regiment in Bassingbourn in 2005 for his phase one training. He received phase two training at ITC Catterick and joined 2 LI in Edinburgh in 2006.

Lance Corporal Cooper deployed with A Company 3 RIFLES to Afghanistan in October 2009 and was operating in southern Sangin. Following the injury to his section Second In Command he was promoted to LCpl in the field on 21 December 2009 and stepped up to fill this role.

On 24 January 2010, he was leading a resupply patrol when an improvised explosive device detonated critically injuring him. He later died of his wounds.

Lance Corporal Cooper's parents, Karl and Caroline Cooper said:

"A caring son, brother and partner. He was not just a brother but a best friend who will be sadly missed by all that knew him. Daniel, we were proud to be your parents from the day you were born."

Lieutenant Colonel Nick Kitson, Commanding Officer 3 RIFLES Battle Group said:

"Lance Corporal Daniel Cooper was one of the great characters of the Battalion; his sense of humour and zest for life were topped only by his ability and determination. The consummate soldier, he was the complete package; fit, bright and dedicated to his work. Ever cheerful and irrepressibly positive, he shone as an example to the more junior Riflemen on how to act and what to aim for.

"Lance Corporal Cooper was cruelly taken from us while doing the job he loved. He had survived numerous brushes with danger in this tough fight alongside colleagues and mates who respected, trusted and loved him. The loss of a Rifleman brimming with such talent and potential leaves a real gap in the Battle Group for the here and now and in this his Battalion for the longer term.

"The thoughts and prayers of this whole Battle Group go out to his family and loved ones. We know that they, like us, will take comfort from fond memories of a man who truly loved life and made every second of it count. We shall continue with the noble task for which he laid down his life, steeled by his unhesitating sacrifice and in the certain knowledge that this is what he would expect of us.

"A proud son of Herefordshire, he will be sorely missed by us all."

Lt Col Nick Kitson: This is no time to waver: progress in Helmand is slow but steady

In recent weeks here in Helmand, the theme has been one of continued progress on all fronts. The temperature, the reduced winter vegetation and the pressure the insurgents face – from us and others – have all acted in our favour.

We have been ruthless in exploiting these advantages and every soldier has worked tirelessly, with great commitment, to ensure we press home every opportunity to increase the security in our areas and convince the locals to reject the insurgents.

Mobilising the population to reject the insurgency is the name of the game; our Afghan army and police partners are working with us towards this goal. Having conducted several significant operations to establish ourselves in new, smaller patrol bases with a broader and more comprehensive footprint we are now living at much closer quarters with the population.

Now that we are genuinely their neighbours in a large number of places – there are 29 security force locations in the Battle Group area, of which we are present in 23 – we can communicate with the locals on a continuous basis, understand their hopes and fears and tell them the truth about what we are trying to do.

This is a traditional and remote rural area with few trappings of the modern world, even by Afghan standards. Yes, there are battered old cars, motorbikes and the occasional ancient tractor but even the ubiquitous mobile phone has no functioning network here. The people have not had the benefit of meaningful modern education. The limited healthcare is normally in the hands of profiteers offering little but quackery.

As such, the locals are prone to the tallest of stories that the Taliban have to offer. This intimidation and misinformation is purely to cow the population into submission – and for no other purpose than to retain the dominance of power-hungry extremists and smugglers with no interest beyond their own status and material gain.

By getting among the population and interacting with them on a persistent basis, we with our Afghan colleagues provide them with visible, tangible security and protection from these abuses.

Corporal Lee Brownson and Rifleman Luke Farmer killed in Afghanistan

It is with sadness that the Ministry of Defence must confirm that Corporal Lee Brownson and Rifleman Luke Farmer from 3rd Battalion, the Rifles were killed in Afghanistan on 15 January 2010.

The soldiers were killed as a result of an IED explosion while on patrol near Sangin, in Helmand Province.

Corporal Lee Brownson

Corporal Lee Brownson was born in Bishop Auckland on 15 September 1979. He went to King James the First Comprehensive School prior to enlisting in the Army on 30 August 1996.

He attended phase one training at the Army Training Regiment in Winchester before attending the Infantry Training Centre Catterick in November 1996. He completed training and was posted to the Second Battalion, the Light Infantry based at the time in Palace Barracks, Northern Ireland.

During his time in the army Corporal Brownson has served in Sierra Leone, Cyprus, Iraq, Kosovo and Afghanistan. He completed the Platoon Serjeants Battle Course in Brecon in March 2009 gaining the highest possible grade. Corporal Brownson assumed the role of section commander with 2 Platoon, A Company 3 RIFLES and it was in this role that he deployed on Op HERRICK 11.

He leaves behind his wife Leeanne, two daughters Ginalee and Morgan and his unborn child.

Lieutenant Colonel Nick Kitson, Commanding Officer 3 RIFLES BG said:

"Corporal Lee Brownson was the very best of Riflemen, brimming with energy, cheer, modesty and resourcefulness. Such was his self confidence and inner strength that nothing was too much trouble for him in understanding and caring for the needs of those around him. Whether for his beloved wife and daughters at home or for his brothers in arms here in Afghanistan, his first priority was to take care of others.

"His loss leaves a gaping hole but we shall close ranks and continue the fight, a fight at the forefront of which he was always to be found. We honour his brave sacrifice, saluting his commitment and example.

"He played a massive part in our work out here, proving himself in combat on countless occasions and giving untold strength to his men through tough times. With spirit and compassion in equally copious measure, he was a beacon of inspiration to us all.

"He was a leader in every sense; commanding the respect not only of those who worked for him, but also of those for whom he worked. Representing the bright future of the army and his loss is a heavy burden to bear.

"There will be no shortage of Riflemen willing to share stories of his life with his children in the years to come. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family. We know that they will draw strength, as do we, from the finest of examples he set in life."

Rifleman Luke Farmer

Rifleman Farmer was born in Pontefract, West Yorkshire on 27 July 1990. He went to Minsthorpe Community College before joining the Army in 2008. He attended training at the Infantry Training Centre in Catterick from October 2008 to April 2009 before joining A Company 3 RIFLES in their pre-deployment training for Op HERRICK 11.

Mark, Luke's father said:

"I was the proudest dad at his passing out parade. I felt 20 feet tall the day Luke received the award for the fittest soldier within his intake. He could have one day gone to the Olympics as a 100m metre sprinter, he was that fast."

Angela, Luke's mother said:

"Luke was a young man who didn't cause us any problems. He was well loved by us and his extended family and friends. He was a good rugby league player who played for Upton Amateur Rugby Football Club. His favourite Rugby League team were The Castleford Tigers. He will be missed by all including the friends and his cousin who he joined up with."

Scott, Luke's eldest brother said:

"He was simply the bestest brother."

Derek, Luke's paternal grandfather said:

"Luke was a brilliant grandson. We'll always remember the times we took him and his brothers on holiday."

Lieutenant Colonel Nick Kitson, Commanding Officer 3 RIFLES BG said:

"Rifleman Luke Farmer was everything I could ask a Rifleman to be; fit, robust, capable, determined and loyal. His dedication served as an inspiration to his fellow Riflemen and his selfless commitment was an example to all.

"Rifleman Farmer is a shining example of the young men who are serving in this place for the benefit of all. His sacrifice is as humbling as his commitment is inspiring and we shall take strength from his memory.

"Our pain is no less for him being quite new to our band of brothers; indeed the loss of such blinding potential, and one so young, is a bitter pill to swallow. We lost a top quality young Rifleman, so much so that he had most definitely made his mark during the very full months he had been with us.

"The thoughts and prayers of this whole Battle Group go out to his family at this tragic time. We know that they too will find comfort in all that he had achieved and the great promise which he showed."

PICTURE of the day: 3 RIFLES Recce in Sangin

Colour Serjeant Paul 'Skip' Lucke and Signaller, Rifleman James McKie, both with Recce Platoon, 3 Rifles Battlegroup based at Patrol Base Airport Lounge near Sangin monitor the radio net following an explosion nearby

An Afghan National Army soldier after a joint patrol with Recce Platoon

British soldiers 'go firm' and keep watch during a Reassurance Patrol conducted by Recce Platoon, 3 Rifles Battlegroup based at Patrol Base Airport Lounge near Sangin

Pictures: Sgt Rob Knight

Key area residents 'feel ignored'

UK Press Association

More British support is needed to help push insurgents out of a remote but strategically important area of Afghanistan, the assistant district governor has said.

Local people in the Kajaki area of northern Helmand feel as if they are being ignored, he said.

Many villages surrounding the British base in the area were deserted in 2006 after the Taliban threatened to kill anybody who was seen co-operating with coalition troops.

Speaking through an interpreter, Torjan, who uses only one name, said if the situation was to improve there would need to be more help from both coalition forces and the Afghan government.

He said the British were doing a good job with the small number of soldiers based in the area but more men were needed to mount a surge against the enemy.

"For a future operation we will need more men here," he said. "The bazaar in this district has been closed for three or four years. I don't know why Isaf and the Afghan government don't pay attention to the situation in this area. The local civilians are very disappointed."

The area is important because of the Kajaki dam, which provides electricity to Helmand province and parts of Kandahar province. The dam itself is firmly under the Isaf control, but securing the surrounding areas for people to return to their homes is not as high on the list of priorities.

The district does not have big population centres like Sangin, Musa Qala and Nowzad. Even so, soldiers from C Company, 3rd Battalion The Rifles, are trying to push the security bubble further north. And there are plans to build another observation post, to be manned by the Afghan National Police (ANP).

This mini police station would watch over the area, help push the Taliban further from the dam, and give more security to local villagers.