Sign in. It’s quick, free and it’s up to you.
An account is an optional way to support the work we do. Find out more.
CIA World Factbook via Creative Commons
Afghanistan
Derry soldier killed in Afghanistan
A 20-year-old Coleraine man has been killed while on patrol in Afghanistan.
A DERRY MAN has been killed in Afghanistan, where he was serving with the First Battalion of the Royal Irish Regiment of the British army, RTÉ reports.
The 20-year-old soldier is reportedly from Coleraine. He was on patrol in the Nad’e Ali area of Helmand province when an explosion occurred.
The young man has not yet been publicly identified but is expected to be named later today.
Spokesman for Task Force Helmand, Lieutenant Colonel David Eastman, said:
On this day of all days, his loss feels especially poignant and, as with all of our brave, fallen comrades, will be forever marked in our thoughts; he will be sorely missed.
Northern Ireland First Minister Peter Robinson, extended his deepest sympathies to the young man’s family and added:
This death brings home the reality of war. Remembrance Sunday is not about the past, it’s about the present.
have your say