UK confirms death of 300th soldier in Afghanistan

LONDON - The British Ministry of Defence has confirmed the death of its 300th soldier in Afghanistan.

According to a Sky News report, the dead soldier is a marine from the 40 Commando Royal Marines, part of Combined Force Sangin.

He died at the New Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham on Sunday as a result of injuries sustained from an explosion in the Sangin District of Helmand Province on June 12.

Major Renny Bulmer, spokesman for 40 Commando, said: “Our thoughts are with his immediate family who were with him at the hospital.

Prime Minister David Cameron said: “It is desperately sad news, another family with such grief and pain and loss.

“Of course the 300th death is no more or less tragic than the 299 that came before, but it is a moment, I think, for the whole country to reflect on the incredible service and sacrifice and dedication that our armed services give on our behalf,” he said.

“We are paying a high price for keeping our country safe, for making our world a safer place and we should keep asking why we’re there and how long we must be there,” he added.

Chief of Defence Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Jock Stirrup said: “Our Armed Forces take enormous pride in their role in Afghanistan where they are helping to provide security to protect our freedoms at home.”

“We remember everyone who has given their life in the line of duty and honour the significant progress they have helped to deliver in Afghanistan,” he added. (ANI)