Tributes paid to Royal Marines killed in Afghanistan

Sam Alexander and Ollie Augustin were killed by a blast from an improvised explosive device in Helmand province The families of two Royal Marines who died in an explosion in Afghanistan have paid tribute to them . Marine Sam Alexander, 28, from Hammersmith, west London, and 23-year-old Lieutenant Ollie Augustin, from Kent, were killed by an improvised explosive device in Helmand province on Friday. The men, both from Juliet Company 42 Commando Royal Marines, had been on patrol in the Loy Mandeh area of the Nad-e Ali district. In 2009, Alexander was awarded the Military Cross for gallantry during a previous tour of Afghanistan. Earlier that year, he charged at a Taliban position with his pistol to save a wounded colleague. Colleagues described him as an example to all who worked with him. His wife, Claire, said: “He risked his safety for his friends, but never batted an eyelid. It was his job, and a job he did well. “Sam was a loving husband and a wonderful father. He was our rock and my best friend. He has been taken from me all too soon.” Alexander also leaves a son, Leo, and parents, Stuart and Serena. The commanding officer of 42 Commando Royal Marines, Lieutenant Colonel Ewen Murchison, said Alexander had joined “the legends, the bravest of the brave”. Augustin, who was leading Friday’s patrol, was said to have made a considerable impact within the unit despite only passing for duty six months ago, having trained to join the marines as a commissioned officer. His parents, Jane and Sean, said he was “a much loved and cherished son”. “His warmth and humour lit a room and infected all around him,” they said. “He dealt with people in a thoughtful and compassionate way. His independence and sense of adventure meant that he embraced life and his chosen path.” Augustin also leaves behind a sister, Sarah. Murchison described him as an “inspirational, passionate and selfless” leader. Military Afghanistan Haroon Siddique guardian.co.uk

Posted by on May 29, 2011. Filed under News, Politics, World News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed.