6:51am Monday 9th June 2008
By Rachel Fitch
Defence bosses have paid tribute to the "extraordinary sacrifice" made by three Colchester soldiers killed in Afghanistan.
The men, from the 2nd Battalion the Parachute Regiment, were on routine patrol in Helmand Province yesterday when they were attacked by a suicide bomber.
Families of the victims have been informed, the Ministry of Defence confirmed.
It takes the total number of British troops killed in the conflict to 100.
The Paras were near their base in the Upper Sangin Valley when the fatal attack was launched at 11am local time.
Four soldiers were injured and evacuated to the medical facility at Camp Bastion.
One soldier was pronounced dead on arrival and two of the soldiers died as a result of their wounds.
The fourth soldier is being treated for his injuries and is expected to make a good recovery.
Chief of the Defence Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Jock Stirrup, said: "It is with both a sense of deep sadness and pride that I have reflected on these most recent British deaths in Afghanistan.
"As you know, 100 brave and professional servicemen have now died in Afghanistan. They laid their lives down for their country and their comrades.
"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."
He continued: "Our Armed Forces are resolute in doing what their country asks of them.
"These deaths, though hard to bear, remind us all of the extraordinary sacrifices they and their families make on our behalf.
"We continue to owe them a great debt of gratitude."
Secretary of State for Defence, Des Browne, said: "I would like to express my deepest sympathy for the family, comrades and friends of the three soldiers killed in Afghanistan this weekend.
"My thoughts at this time are also with the loved ones of each and every one of the 100 courageous members of the British Armed Forces who have now lost their lives in Afghanistan.
"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."
© Copyright 2001-2012 Newsquest Media Group
http://www.gazette-news.co.uk/trade_directory/