From The Sunday Times

September 30, 2007

Biggest blitz by paras since WW2 to crush Taliban

Michael Smith and Louise Armitstead

BRITAIN is to deploy its biggest contingent of paratroopers and special forces since the second world war in a bid to crush the Taliban in Afghanistan.

Ministers are to send 3,000 paratroopers, including the entire Parachute Regiment, to southern Afghanistan in the spring, as well as trebling the number of special forces in the country.

It will be the first time in the regiment's history that all four para battalions, including its reservists, have fought together on the same battlefield. The number of UK special forces personnel will rise to more than 800 and will include the bulk of the Special Forces Support Group, which is largely comprised of paratroopers.

The deployment comes amid fears that the Taliban are likely to regroup over the winter and retake terrain from weaker Afghan forces unable to hold their positions.

It has also emerged that the Ministry of Defence (MoD) is considering ways in which private security companies could bolster frontline troops in war zones such as Afghanistan. Options include "defensive" tasks such as guarding military bases, helping to escort convoys, supplying frontline soldiers and transporting troops.

Gordon Brown is expected to signal a renewed emphasis on Afghanistan next week when he announces that local forces have officially taken control of southern Iraq. The number of UK troops in the country is expected to be cut from the current 5,000, freeing resources for deployment in Afghanistan.

Brown is expected to commit British troops to Helmand province until at least 2010, although senior officers privately expect to be there much longer. "The aim is for special forces to target the Taliban before they cause problems, while the paras provide security for reconstruction to get going in earnest," one officer said.

The plan will see the current force of 7,000 British troops return from Afghanistan and a total of 8,000 sent out, bringing together the army's most battle-hardened elite. Officers admit that, with 81 killed and more than 250 wounded, the Taliban have provided some of the fiercest resistance seen since the Korean war.

UK special forces will also concentrate for the first time solely on southern Helmand and will be expected not only to target the Taliban but also the drug barons funding them. The RAF will increase the number of aircraft in the country, adding Tornado and Typhoon ground attack planes to its existing Harrier squadrons.

A group of high-level civil servants has been set up to investigate the possibility of hiring private contractors to perform defensive duties in warzones. The group, which is being lead by Peter January of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and includes high-ranking officials from the MoD and the Department for International Development, has been consulting experts from the private sector for some months.

Andy Bearpark, director-general of the British Association of Private Security Companies, said he was in "constant contact" with both the MoD and the Foreign Office over what postconflict resolution work its members could carry out.

"The British military is getting more stretched, and so it makes sense to explore ways of utilising the skills of private security companies," he said.

Read Mick Smith's defence blog

> HOMECOMING SOLDIERS ARE REUNITED WITH...

HOMECOMING SOLDIERS ARE REUNITED WITH LOVED ONES

BY MARTIN NAYLOR
MNAYLOR@DERBYTELEGRAPH.CO.UK

09:30 - 26 September 2007

Scenes of celebration and relief greeted the first Derbyshire soldiers to arrive home last night from a tour of duty in Afghanistan.

They were among 111 1st Battalion Grenadier Guards returning to their base in Aldershot.

Families and friends greeted them with banners and balloons.

Husbands were reunited with wives, mothers with sons and children with fathers at the Hampshire barracks.

One soldier from the 351-year-old regiment was 28-year-old Lance Corporal Tim Leatherland, from Alfreton.

Afghanistan was his fifth overseas tour of duty. He has also served in Bosnia, Kosovo, Northern Ireland and Iraq.

He said: "Even though I am relatively experienced I can honestly say that I have never done a tour like that.

"The fighting was incredibly intense and we were dealing with a determined enemy."

The battalion was based at Camp Shorabak, in Helmand province, during the six-month tour which included 'Operational Mentoring and Liaison Training'.

This involved working with the Afghan national army and training them in the same way British soldiers would be trained.

They were given advice and access to the same armaments and equipment used by the British Army.

Another member of the battalion back on British soil last night was Lance Corporal Martin Jordan, 24, of Alvaston.

He said: "This was easily the toughest tour of duty I have undertaken in eight years in the Army.

"The hardest part for me was losing two close friends, Guardsman Downes and Guardsman Probyn. Morale does take a bit of a dip when things like that happen.

"When we lost them both I didn't have a girlfriend, which they both did, and I found myself thinking why couldn't it have been me?"

As well as Neil Downes, 20, from Manchester and Daniel Probyn, 22, from Tipton, the Grenadier Guards also lost Guardsman Simon Davison, 22, from Cannock, and David Atherton, 25, also from Manchester.

Another Grenadier, 27-year-old guardsman Daryl Hickey, from Birmingham, was killed while on manoeuvres with the 2nd Mercian (Worcesters and Foresters) regiment in Afghanistan on July 12.

Regiment Adjutant Major Grant Baker heaped praise on the guards as they came off coaches from RAF Brize Norton, in Oxfordshire.

He said: "This tour is the first time the regiment has seen fighting and warfare this intense since the Second World War. Our committed men showed bravery beyond their years in the face of an enemy stiff with resolve."

The 2nd Mercian Regiment (Worcesters and Foresters), in which most of Derbyshire's soldiers are represented, is due home next month, at about the same time as the rest of the Grenadier Guards.

> UK's Afghan gains 'may be lost'

UK's Afghan gains 'may be lost'

Gen McNeill said he expected the Taleban to regroup over winter British troops in Afghanistan may have to take ground they have gained this summer again next year, the Nato commander has warned. Gen Dan McNeill said the alliance had made some important military gains over the past six months in Helmand. But he expressed concern that Afghan security forces would not be able to retain security in the territory as the Taleban regroup over winter. About 25 British troops have been killed there in the past six months. Tactics in Helmand province, in the south of Afghanistan, over the past six months have been to push the Taleban out of the lush river valleys where the insurgents have had a stronghold. The tactics have meant close-quarters fighting for British troops. Exit strategy Gen McNeill, in an interview with BBC correspondent Alastair Leithhead, said this had been a successful military strategy but that he was concerned the job of holding the ground would not be done effectively by Afghan national security forces. He said some of the ground taken may have to be taken all over again next year if the Taleban regroup over the winter as he fears they will. "I think there is some chance of that because the Afghan national security forces have not been as successful in holding as we would like them to be," he said. "We are likely to have to do some of this work again. "It would nice if the Afghan national security force could hold it, then there's less of a chance we'll have to do it again." Our correspondent explained that after British troops have pushed forward, leaving Afghan National Security Forces behind to hold the ground, it can be difficult to maintain security. Taleban fighters launch insurgent-style attacks such as roadside bombings, which eat away at the confidence the presence of international forces is trying to achieve. Operations would have to be launched again to increase the level of security, he explained. Training the Afghan army and police to a level where they can maintain Afghanistan security is the exit strategy for foreign forces. Gen McNeill said the mission was on track and he was pleased with the military progress and ongoing reconstruction projects. However, he said the third key pillar - improving governance - was not going well and more work would have to be done.

> Grenadier Guards return home after si...

Grenadier Guards return home after six-month tour of Afghanistan

By DANIEL BATES - More by this author >> Last updated at 09:24am on 26th September 2007

Comments

There were tears and celebrations as 111 members of the Grenadier Guards returned to their barracks in Aldershot after a six-month tour of Afghanistan.

But the joy was tempered by the loss of five of their comrades and concerns among the soldiers over how quickly they had been sent away.

The 111 service personnel flew into RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire at 8pm this evening before being bussed down to their Hampshire barracks.

Scroll down for more...

Reunited: Lance Sgt Chris Beardshaw of the Grenadier Guards cuddles his children after he arrived back to Aldershot from Afghanistan

There they were met by their wives and young children holding up banners which read "Welcome home Daddy", "Welcome back home" and "Welcome home Rob and all the Grenadier Guards".

As the men got off the coaches their families rushed towards them and greeted them with tearful hugs.

The mood was summed up by commanding officer Lt Col Carew Hatherley.

He had an emotional reunion with his wife Canada, 35, and daughter Isabelle, six even though she didn't initially recognise who he was.

He said: "It's been a long old six months and has been pretty ferocious at times.

"We've been very busy these last couple of years and it's fantastic to be home and see my family.

"Isabelle didn't actually recognise me when she first saw me and asked: 'Is that you Daddy?'

"Whilst it is great to be home our thoughts are with those who didn't make it back."

Sgt Lee Northam, 34, from Windsor, was looking forward to seeing one-year-old son Henry take his first steps.

He said: "Its lovely to be home and I've seen a DVD of Henry walking but to actually see it for myself will be incredible."

His wife Anne, 39, a PA added: "Today is like all of my birthdays have come at the same time. The last few days have been a real rollercoaster and I've been living on adrenaline.

"Its going to be lovely to have him home for more than a couple of weeks."

Lance Sgt Chris Beardshaw, 29, was met by his family holding a "Welcome Home Daddy" banner.

He picked up son Rhys, five, who asked him: "Daddy, are you staying for more than a few weeks?" To which he replied: "Yes I am son, I love you."

He was then hugged by other son Devon, two, daughter Dannielle, 12, and wife Lara, 35.

She said: "I've been in touch with him once a week or so on the phone but to see him in the flesh, I can't describe it. I hardly recognised him as he's been away for so long."

Some of the soldiers raised concerns that they had been sent out to Afghanistan too soon after coming back from a tour of Iraq.

Guardsman Matthew Lyne-Pirkis, 27, said: "The time between us coming home and us being sent out is ridiculous.

"I went straight onto a medic course after I got back from Iraq and didn't really get a break at all. This will be a much needed rest."

The turnaround between this deployment and the previous one in Afghanistan is believed to be the fastest for any infantry unit in modern history.

Lance Sergeant Paul Fear, 36, added: "It's a massive relief to have this break because we've done three tours in the last three years.

"Officially we're supposed to get a two-year break between the tours but between Iraq and Afghanistan it was only a matter of months."

The Grenadier Guards were sent on a tour of Bosnia in 2004/2005, then they were sent to Iraq in 2006 and that was followed by Afghanistan in 2007.

The Grenadier Guards' role in their latest mission in Afghanistan was to train up and supervise the Afghan Army.

Around 100 have already returned home after a six month tour and 200 more will return in mid-October.

> On the ground with the Grenadiers

On the ground with the Grenadiers

By Vaughan Smith Freelance video journalist

Twenty years ago I left the Grenadier Guards to become a freelance cameraman.

The Grenadiers have been training the Afghan National Army

Three months later I was in Southern Afghanistan filming Afghans shelling Russians at Kandahar's Airport.

I could not have then imagined that Afghanistan's wars would drag on this long and that the Grenadier Guards would one day end up fighting in Afghanistan.

The Grenadier Guards, part of 12 Brigade commanded by Brigadier John Lorimer, have been in Southern Afghanistan all summer, often fighting in temperatures in the high 40s.

Training on the job

At the end of August I went to stay with them in Helmand for three weeks.

The troops spent much of the operation wading through water

Of the films that I took, the operation conducted on 30 and 31 August 2007 in the Sangin Valley best illustrated what British soldiers have been doing this summer in Southern Afghanistan.

The Grenadiers have been training the Helmand Brigade of the Afghan National Army.

But this is no normal training programme. The bullets are real and so are the Taliban. This really is training on job.

Controlling the troops

This operation was the first time that the ANA were employed by the British within a formal British military operation of this size.

Controlling this number of troops, trying to keep them safe while making quick progress and managing the communications and fire support is complex.

Training the ANA is the sort of work that would normally be done by Special Forces.

The four Grenadiers in the film have to have their wits about them. They have to be extra vigilant: they cannot expect ANA soldiers to behave the way British soldiers would.

The Grenadiers, while taking the lead in attacks, have to carry extra equipment.

The ANA are brave fighters, and are excellent at spotting the Taliban, but they are not used to British levels of military discipline and organisation.

The Grenadiers rely on translators for communication and this is very difficult when the bullets are flying.

In conversation, British officers loosely estimated that, during this operation in the Sangin Valley, they killed about 30 Taliban.

These are not official figures. It is not the British Army's policy to claim body-counts.

Tactics

British soldiers seem respectful of the fighting ability of the Taliban. The Taliban are very mobile, know the ground better and try to surprise and disrupt the British and Afghan National Army advance whenever they can.

Running between compounds - but the Taliban have usually fled by the time they arrive

The Taliban are almost always the first to open fire, seeing the British before being seen. They fire with automatic weapons and rocket propelled grenades.

The British, when they have worked out where the Taliban are firing from, return fire aggressively to encourage the Taliban to "keep their heads down" and therefore stop firing.

British tactics are methodical but more cumbersome. The British are not prepared to take unnecessary casualties and try to use helicopters or artillery in an attempt to kill the Taliban before sending soldiers in.

Most of the time, when the soldiers arrive they find that the Taliban have evacuated their positions, taking any wounded or dead with them.

The British, part of a larger NATO force, aim to clear areas of Taliban and encourage the farmers and townsfolk to return and carry on with life as normal.

It is too early to say whether they are going to be successful in the long run.

When NATO leave Afghanistan the Afghan National Army (ANA) will have to take over the fight against the Taliban, securing whatever gains NATO has achieved.

Modern warfare

The fighting in Afghanistan is tough and would be recognised by veterans of the Second World War. But the Taliban are not the German Wehrmacht and modern wars that are 60 years apart defy simplistic comparison.

Taking aim - but the Taliban are nearly always the first to open fire

One important difference is that modern medicine greatly increases the chances of surviving a battle wound.

In the Second World War, more Commonwealth soldiers were listed as missing or killed than were evacuated as wounded.

In Southern Afghanistan today, a soldier that has the misfortune of being hit has roughly a 90 per cent chance of living.

But there is, consequently, a very much larger chance the injured soldier will end up facing life without a limb or two, lose their eyesight, or spend the rest their life bearing severe disfigurement.

The British public does not properly understand this loss because casualty statistics issued have yet to detail these severe injuries.

Carrying the 'kit'

There are stories about the British equipment not being good enough.

During my stay in Helmand almost everybody complained about the lack of transport helicopters. But then there is not much else to do, except complain, when you are waiting for a helicopter.

The soldiers don't grumble about their personal "kit". The boots are good, ammunition plentiful and the fire support too.

Some say that the larger radios that they carry are too heavy. This is important because the British carry everything with them all the time.

They fight with their packs on.

This report can be seen on Newsnight on Wednesday, 26 September at 10.30pm on BBC TWO.

You can watch and read more about Vaughan Smith's work at fromthefrontline.co.uk.

> MOD to give troops £140 council tax r...

MOD to give troops £140 council tax rebate

By BENEDICT BROGAN Last updated at 00:18am on 25th September 2007

Soldiers say are unfairly targeted by the tax system

Troops serving in Iraq and Afghanistan are to receive a £140 council tax rebate.

The Ministry of Defence has agreed to the cut following a sustained grass roots campaign by servicemen and their families.

Soldiers have complained that they are unfairly targeted by the tax system because they are expected to keep paying council tax even while they are abroad on active service.

But it is understood the discount will apply only to those deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan - those serving in Bosnia, the Falklands and other overseas posts will not qualify.

With the average council tax bill at £952 - or about £18.31 a week - the cut planned by Defence Secretary Des Browne is worth about 15 per cent.

Gordon Brown has been stung by recent criticisms that the Government is neglecting the welfare of the Armed Forces at a time when servicemen are giving their lives in Iraq and Afghanistan.

While based in combat positions, British soldiers get free food and accommodation, although they have to pay council tax on their usually meagre barrack rooms in Britain.

In his speech to the Labour conference yesterday, the Prime Minister said: "Our Armed Services with bravery and heroism every single day make us proud. We mourn those who have been lost and we honour all those who in distant places of danger give so much to our country."

But Conservative defence spokesman Liam Fox said last night: "This has all the hallmarks of the MoD being bounced into giving a good headline to Number 10."

"The nature of this measure will be divisive amongst the Armed Forces because it discriminates between personnel on different operations."

"It will put further pressure on the frontline budget because no new money is being made available to the MoD. Yet again it's Gordon's spin first, our forces' welfare second."

The council tax rebate is the latest boost to overseas troops amid concern that their morale is being stretched to breaking point.

Until last month families of British servicemen and women had to pay hundreds of pounds a year to send their relatives parcels from home.

But the Royal Mail waived the charges after public outcry and pressure from the head of the Army, General Sir Richard Dannatt.

But many complain their wages do not reflect their dangerous work and long hours.

A soldier on £14,300 is being paid at the rate of £2.45 an hour for being on duty for at least 16 hours a day in a combat zone.

The statutory minimum wage is £5.05 an hour, which will soon rise to £5.35.

A Sergeant First Class in the U.S. Army with more than four years' experience would earn a comparative wage, while an American private starting their army career would earn just £7,800 a year.

But on top of that both can get dozens of other allowances, including a tax-free housing benefit. They also get a basic allowance of subsistence for meals which is around £95 for officers and £140 for enlisted members.

Another benefit they can claim is the hazardous duty pay incentive to reflect the dangers they are in. For most this is £75 a month but can but as much as £112 a month.

U.S. troops also receive significantly better hospital care if they are injured.

The MoD says British troops get subsidised accommodation and food, sports and entertainment facilities, free medical and dental care, discounted rail travel and subsidised crËche and nursery facilities on most bases.

> Army chief warns of social 'gulf'

Army chief warns of social 'gulf'

The head of the British Army says he is becoming increasingly concerned about "the growing gulf between the Army and the nation".

Gen Sir Richard Dannatt said soldiers were sometimes greeted with indifference on returning from service.

He contrasted the attitude in Britain with support for soldiers among people in the United States.

A "willingness to serve in such an atmosphere again" could be sapped, he said in a speech in London.

Gen Dannatt told the International Institute for Strategic Studies: "Soldiers want to be understood and they want to be respected for their commitment.

"When a young soldier has been fighting in Basra or Helmand, he wants to know that the people in their local pub know and understand what he has been doing and why."

"Soldiers are genuinely concerned when they come back from Iraq to hear the population that sent them being occasionally dismissive or indifferent about their achievements," he added.

Gen Dannatt compared the situations in the UK and the US, where firms offer discounts to serving soldiers and people shake the hand of those in uniform.

He said that, in the UK, "we still have a nation that, at times, seems immune to homeless and psychologically-damaged soldiers".

"As operational commitments have become more intense, so has the need for support from the nation," he said.

"We must move from being a society that uses the military as a political and media football and more towards seeing the military for what it is."

That was "the instrument of foreign policy conducted by a democratically-elected government acting in the name of the people".

Campaign support

Gen Dannatt also called for a radical rethink on the equipment used in the British Army.

He said that "too often we have been seduced by high technology".

He called for more money to be spent on "getting the very lowest level right".

This involved "equipping the man first and building the system around him", Gen Dannatt added.

Major General Patrick Cordingley, who commanded the Desert Rats during the 1991 Gulf War, agreed there was a lack of understanding about the role of armed forces in Iraq and Afghanistan.

"I think the real problem is that the armed forces are at war and the country isn't, therefore there is an inevitable misunderstanding of what our armed forces are doing," he told BBC News 24.

There was a great difference between the public's attitude to the first Gulf War and the second, he said.

"The first Gulf War was seen to be just, was seen to be the correct thing to do and the country was right behind everybody who went down and what went on.

"The second Gulf War was a very different situation indeed - probably not just, perhaps not even legal and a 50-50 split in the country - not a popular war."

He added that he believed the media and the Ministry of Defence were partly to blame for not explaining what members of the armed forces were doing in Iraq and Afghanistan.

> Colour Sergeant Phillip Newman & Priv...

Colour Sergeant Phillip Newman & Private Brian Tunnicliffe killed in Afghanistan

21 Sep 07

It is with much sadness that the Ministry of Defence must confirm the deaths of Colour Sergeant Phillip Newman of 4th Battalion The Mercian Regiment and Private Brian Tunnicliffe of 2nd Battalion The Mercian Regiment (Worcesters and Foresters) in a tragic accident in southern Afghanistan on Thursday 20 September 2007.

Colour Sergeant Phillip Newman
[Picture: MOD]

Both soldiers were deployed on Operation Palk Wahel with A (Grenadier) Company 2nd Battalion The Mercian Regiment (Worcesters and Foresters) and were conducting an essential re-supply during a pause in the fighting.

They were travelling in a Pinzgauer 4X4, 5km south west of their patrol base in an area north of Gereshk, on their way to a rendezvous point as part of a two vehicle replenishment patrol. The vehicle over-turned and tragically landed on its roof in an irrigation channel. One other passenger was able to escape without injury. Despite all of the efforts of the patrol, a medical officer, engineers and a quick reaction force who were on the scene within minutes, sadly Colour Sergeant Newman and Private Tunnicliffe were unable to be saved.

Colour Sergeant Phillip Newman
Colour Sergeant Phillip Newman, aged 36, enlisted into the Territorial Army in Coventry in August 1994 as a member of the 5th Battalion, The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers, later to become the West Midlands Regiment, and as of 1st September 2007, 4th Battalion The Mercian Regiment. Throughout his Territorial Army career, Colour Sergeant Newman showed true commitment to operations having deployed to Afghanistan previously and Iraq on a further occasion in support of the regular Army. Due to his natural talent and hard work, he rose quickly through the ranks and became a formidable Colour Sergeant who was an outstanding model for the current day Territorial Army soldier.

Colour Sergeant Newman volunteered to deploy to Afghanistan and had previously served with 1st Battalion, The Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regiment (now 2nd Battalion The Mercian Regiment) on Operation HERRICK 1 in 2004/5 as an operations senior non commissioned officer and watch keeper. He had recently requested to stay with the Battalion for the next two years on a full time reserve service contract. He was going to be employed as Officer Commanding Machine Gun Platoon, an area where he had a specific expertise.

Whilst on Op HERRICK 6, he was employed once again as an operations senior non commissioned officer and assisted with the Company Quarter Master Sergeant party. He had recently returned from a demanding deployment with A (Grenadier) Company to Garmsir in southern Helmand Province, Afghanistan.

Colour Sergeant Newman will be sorely missed by both his regular and Territorial Army colleagues and will be remembered as a professional, dedicated soldier and loving family man. His loss will be immeasurable for the Army but his love of the job and the love and pride he showed for his family should never be forgotten. Our thoughts are with his wife Stephanie and his children Mackenzie, Josh and Tia at this very difficult time.

Commanding Officer - 4th Battalion The Mercian Regiment, Lieutenant Colonel Ivan Yardley said:

"Colour Sergeant Phillip Newman joined 5th Battalion, The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers in August 1994 at his local Territorial Army centre and was extremely proud of his Fusilier heritage. He was a mainstay of the West Midlands Regiment, later 4th Battalion The Mercian Regiment. Phillip was a highly experienced and professional member of the Territorial Army having served in Afghanistan on two previous occasions in support of the regular Army and also in Iraq with a Territorial Army company comprised of soldiers from the West Midlands area. Using his knowledge and leadership he provided a strong role model for many young Territorial soldiers who were experiencing operations for the first time. Phillip volunteered again to deploy to Afghanistan and it was during this deployment that he was tragically killed.

"As a member of the Territorial Army he was well known throughout all ranks of the Battalion as a larger than life character and his thirst for adventure was infectious for so many of those who were close to him. Phillip touched many people's lives, here and abroad; he personified all that was good in a soldier, he led from the front and protected those who could not protect themselves. A tragic loss, but far from a wasted life, I, like so many people who served with Phillip feel extremely privileged to have known him. This hugely experienced and popular soldier will be missed by all ranks of this Battalion and also the wider Mercian Regiment which he served so well. He will be remembered as a professional, dedicated soldier and loving family man. His loss will be immeasurable for the Army but his love of the job and the love and pride he showed for his family should never be forgotten.

"Phillip was a dedicated family man; he took great pride in his children's achievements and was devoted to Stephanie, his wife. It is Stephanie and his three children Mackenzie, Josh and Tia that our thoughts and prayers are with at this difficult time."

Permanent Staff Administration Officer A (Fusilier) Company - 4th Battalion The Mercian Regiment, Captain Steve Hopkinson said:

"Colour Sergeant Phil Newman was a first class, staunch Fusilier who wore the hackle with pride and was admired by all in A (Fusilier) Company. A veteran of four operational tours he provided knowledge, experience and realism into all aspects of Territorial Army life. A colleague, a confidant and great friend, I will miss his sense of humour and his outlook on life. A man who placed family first, he will be sadly missed. A true Fusilier!"

Colleague and friend, Sergeant Billy Henry 4th Battalion The Mercian Regiment said:

"Colour Sergeant Phil Newman, a professional, dedicated soldier respected by all who knew him, Phil served for 13 years in the Territorial Army as a part of 5th Battalion The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers and West Midlands Regiment. He also undertook full time reserve service operational tours in both Afghanistan and Iraq in his time. A harder working or dedicated senior non commissioned officer you could not find. I served with Phil during training, Recce platoon and Sustained Fire platoon 5th Battalion The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers and as a part of A (Fusilier) Company, West Midlands Regiment. He was a close genuine friend, with a great sense of humour and a loving family man he will be sorely missed by all who knew him."

Colour Sergeant Newman's wife, Stephanie said:

"Phil was a loving husband and a brilliant father of three to Josh, 12, Mackenzie, 11, and Tia, 8. He took great pride in all of his achievements. His great sense of humour made the most of any situation. We are very proud of him. He died doing what he loved and we will all miss him very much."

Private Brian Tunnicliffe
[Picture: MOD]

Private Brian Tunnicliffe
Private Brian Tunnicliffe, aged 33, from Ilkeston, was enlisted into the Army in Derby and commenced his training at the Army Training Regiment Lichfield followed by the Infantry Training Centre Catterick in January 1997. He arrived at the Battalion in the summer of 1997, whilst it was based in Tidworth. He deployed soon after to Bosnia in 1998. He later deployed to Omagh, Northern Ireland in 2000 for a two year residential tour of duty and again to South Armagh in 2003. Additionally he had deployed to Belize and Kenya and exercised on HMS Nottingham.

As a senior Private soldier, Private Tunnicliffe had been employed in various roles over the last 10 years. He spent most of his career as a store man in A (Grenadier) Company, assisting many an Officer Commanding and Company Quarter Master Sergeant. His varied other tasks included a spell as Ram Orderly to Private Derby, the Regiment's Swalesdale Derbyshire Ram mascot. Private Derby too was thankful for the companionship, never had he been exercised so much or cared for so diligently. More recently Private Tunnicliffe was employed in the motor transport platoon.

Commanding Officer 2nd Battalion The Mercian Regiment (Worcesters and Foresters) Lieutenant Colonel Simon Banton said:

"'Private 'Tunny' Tunnicliffe was a true Regimental character known to every officer and soldier alike who has served with the Battalion over the past decade. He would always go the extra mile, ensuring those around him were looked after, whether it be his Company Commander or the soldiers in the Company. All he ever wanted was to make others happy; a thank you and pat on the back was always sufficient reward.

"As soldiers past and present will testify, there isn't a single man who has served in 1st Battalion The Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters/ 2nd Battalion The Mercian Regiment (Worcesters and Foresters) who won't have a collection of 'Tunnicliffe stories'. Private Tunnicliffe reflected the archetypal county infantryman, fiercely loyal to his regiment and his friends. A truly big hearted Ilkeston man through and through, our lives are darker now that his bright light has gone out."

Captain Adrian Garrett - Adjutant 2nd Battalion The Mercian Regiment (Worcesters and Foresters) said:

"Private Tunnicliffe was one of the first soldiers that I met when I joined the Battalion. As the Company store man he always gave 100 % effort to the guys deploying onto the ground. His natural strength was renowned, although in true contrast you would never meet a warmer spirited individual with always a kind word. All Worcesters and Foresters, past and present have lost a close friend."

Captain Richard (Fred) Slaney - Quarter Master (Technical) 2nd Battalion The Mercian Regiment (Worcesters and Foresters) said:

"Never afraid of hard work, Private Tunnicliffe would always get stuck in and offer a lending hand no matter what the task. He had two sides; on one side he was as strong as an ox, he could dig a trench and have brews on in no time. On the other side he loved baking cakes which he would proudly share with the lads, quite clearly he was very popular within the motor transport platoon. A real lively character who was full of chat, he will be truly missed."

Sergeant Brian Burgess - Motor Transport Platoon Sergeant 2nd Battalion The Mercian Regiment (Worcesters and Foresters) said:

"Private Tunnicliffe was as strong as an ox, with a large heart to match. He went out of his way to help you, all he wanted was praise. Everyone knew 'Tunni', his character and that familiar voice."

Private Tunnicliffe's wife, Lindsey said:

"Beloved Husband and Best Friend. Loved the Army, always reliable and the worst cook in the world. We'll miss you "Tunni""

Defence Secretary Des Browne said:

"I am deeply saddened by the deaths of Colour Sergeant Newman and Private Tunnicliffe. Both were dedicated, professional soldiers. Their loss strengthens our resolve to continue with our mission in Afghanistan and I commend their comrades for continuing the fight at what must be a difficult time for them. My thoughts and prayers are with their family, friends and comrades."

> Lance Corporal Ivano Violino killed i...

Lance Corporal Ivano Violino killed in Afghanistan

19 Sep 07

It is with immense sadness that the Ministry of Defence must confirm the death of Lance Corporal Ivano Violino from 20 Field Squadron, 36 Engineer Regiment in southern Afghanistan on Monday 17 September 2007.

Lance Corporal Ivano Violino
[Picture: MOD]

Lance Corporal Violino was commanding an FL12 Self-Loading Dump Truck on a routine logistics convoy, moving vital engineering equipment to a Forward Operating Base 19 kilometre north east of the town of Gereshk in Helmand province, when his vehicle was caught in an explosion. Despite the best efforts of the Air Medical Emergency Response Team who arrived on the scene shortly after the explosion, Lance Corporal Violino was sadly pronounced dead on arrival at the field hospital at Camp Bastion.

Lance Corporal Ivano Violino

Lance Corporal Ivano Violino, known as "Sean", aged 29, was born in Salford. He joined the Army on 18 January 2002. Having completed combat engineer training at 3 Royal School Military Engineering Regiment and driver training at the Defence School of Transport, Leaconfield, Lance Corporal Violino joined 36 Engineer Regiment as a member of the Combat Support Troop, 50 Headquarters & Support Squadron on 11 February 2003. He was an Army canoeist and regularly represented the regiment at rugby.

In March 2003 Lance Corporal Violino deployed with the Regiment to Kuwait and took part in Operation TELIC. He was deservedly promoted to Lance Corporal in October 2004 and in April 2006 he was cross-posted within 36 Engineer Regiment to Support Troop, 20 Field Squadron.

As part of 20 Field Squadron he deployed to Canada in February 2007 to take part in a demanding construction exercise to upgrade and construct facilities at the British Army Training Unit, Suffield. Thereafter Lance Corporal Violino participated fully in the pre-deployment training for Afghanistan deploying with his Squadron on the 52 Infantry Brigade exercise on Salisbury Plain and taking part in a live firing exercise on Thetford Training Area. Prior to his deployment, Lance Corporal Violino's high professional standards were recognised when he was selected for promotion to Corporal.

"The very epitome of a modern professional soldier, [Lance Corporal Violino] lived life to the full and gave his all to the Army, his comrades and to his family."

Lieutenant Colonel Richard Wardlaw, Commanding Officer 36 Engineer Regiment

Lance Corporal Violino arrived in Afghanistan on 2 September 2007 and is sadly the first fatality from 36 Engineer Regiment. He leaves behind his wife, Katey Anne (known as Katey), and seven-year-old twins from a previous relationship, Ellie and Lewis.

Lieutenant Colonel Richard Wardlaw, Commanding Officer 36 Engineer Regiment, said:

"Lance Corporal Violino was an experienced and dedicated junior non commissioned officer, the very epitome of a modern professional soldier, who lived life to the full and gave his all to the Army, his comrades and to his family. Extremely fit, enthusiastic and exceptionally hard working, he drew respect and praise in equal measure: his recent and early selection for promotion to Corporal is testament to the excellent career which lay ahead. He will be sorely missed but never forgotten by all those who had the honour to serve alongside him."

Major Gareth Baker, Officer Commanding 20 Field Squadron, said:

"Lance Corporal Violino was a dedicated professional with a strong sense of duty and endless enthusiasm for his chosen career. He was a privilege to command; was always positive, proactive, and utterly reliable in everything he did. He took immense pride in his performance both at work and in his sporting pursuits. An excellent sportsman; he was awarded Army colours for canoeing and was an integral member of the winning Royal Engineers team in the extremely physically demanding Devizes to Westminster canoe race.

"Lance Corporal Violino's outstanding performance was recognised by all who worked with him. He made his mark in the Squadron with his endless professional knowledge, high standards and genteel manner."

Major Gareth Baker, Officer Commanding 20 Field Squadron

"Lance Corporal Violino's outstanding performance was recognised by all who worked with him. He made his mark in the Squadron with his endless professional knowledge, high standards and genteel manner. Nothing was too much trouble and he had time for anyone who would benefit from his experience. He regularly took on responsibilities beyond his rank and was always prepared to help others. This fact had been recognised by his early promotion to Lance Corporal and his recent selection for promotion to Corporal ahead of his peers.

"I cannot express how deeply shocked all of the Squadron have been by this tragic loss so early in our deployment. Lance Corporal Violino was killed by an indiscriminate explosive device while commanding a key piece of engineer equipment. His mission was to move the equipment as part of a large logistics convoy to ensure it was in the right place at the right time. Our only consolation is that it was typical of his character to volunteer for this mission, fully aware of the risks associated, and he was supporting the Squadron effort in the best way he could. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends who have lost a husband, father and exceptional man."

Warrant Officer Class 2 Pat Rendell, Squadron Sergeant Major 20 Field Squadron, said:

"Lance Corporal Ivano Violino was a first class junior non commissioned officer, a larger than life character and an extremely well respected member of the Squadron and Regiment. The word professional sums this man up perfectly, as proved by his recent selection for promotion to Corporal. The enthusiasm with which he conducted himself was infectious and others who worked alongside him have no doubt benefited from his breadth and depth of knowledge. The news of his death came as a great shock to all who knew him. My thoughts go out to all his family and friends. He will be sorely missed by all members of 20 Field Squadron. Missed but not forgotten."

"Sean was very proud to be a member of the Armed Forces, in particular the Royal Engineers, and having been selected for promotion to Corporal had a bright future ahead of him. The world is a poorer place without Sean."

Lance Corporal Violino's wife, Katey

A close friend of Lance Corporal Violino, Lance Corporal Adam Cornelius, 50 Headquarters and Support Squadron, said:

"Lance Corporal Violino, or Sean to his friends, was an all round good guy. I had the privilege to know him, his wife Katey and his two young twins Ellie and Lewis. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family at this time of great sadness.

"I will remember Sean best for his 'Cheeky Chappy' attitude to life both in and out of work. His death is a massive loss as he was an individual who had so much to give to others."

Lance Corporal Graham Bradley, 20 Field Squadron, a close friend, added:

"Sean was an excellent non commissioned officer who was well respected by his blokes. But most of all he was a genuinely good man and friend; he talked constantly about his wife, children and his ambitions for himself and his family."

Sean's wife, Katey, said:

"Sean will be sadly missed for his infectious enthusiasm for life and his desire to be everyone's friend. He was popular with everyone he met and was loved by friends and family alike. Sean was very proud to be a member of the Armed Forces, in particular the Royal Engineers, and having been selected for promotion to Corporal had a bright future ahead of him. The world is a poorer place without Sean."

Defence Secretary Des Browne said:

"The death of Lance Corporal Violino is profoundly tragic. The Army has lost a highly professional soldier and his death is an immense blow to all who knew him. I hope that his family, friends and comrades will draw comfort from the fact that he died doing a job he clearly excelled at. My thoughts are with all of them at this very sad time."

> Heavy fighting in S Afghanistan

Heavy fighting in S Afghanistan

By Chris Morris BBC News, Kabul

There have been more military clashes in southern Afghanistan between Afghan and international security forces and Taleban insurgents.

It has been announced that a British soldier was killed in Helmand province on Monday.

The Afghan defence ministry says 14 Taleban were killed in two separate clashes elsewhere in the province.

Police also say that a Taleban leader who kidnapped 23 South Koreans in July has been killed in a US air strike.

There is no independent confirmation of the claim.

A British soldier serving with the Nato-led International Security Assistance Force (Isaf) was killed after an explosion hit his army truck in the Gereshk district of Helmand province.

The Ministry of Defence in London says he was taking part in a routine logistics convoy.

Elsewhere in Helmand, Afghan officials say nine Taleban insurgents planning an ambush were killed in an American air strike, while five others died when they attacked Afghan and US-led forces.

The latest fighting comes as the United Nations in Afghanistan is mounting a big public campaign to promote International Peace Day later this week.

The head of the UN mission here has called for a complete cessation of violence on 21 September, while the World Health Organisation and the UN Children's Fund have appealed for three days of calm.

They want to vaccinate children across the south of the country against polio.

Posters promoting International Peace Day have appeared around the capital Kabul.

But military clashes have become routine here and several thousand people have been killed during the course of this year.

From The Times

September 19, 2007

Don' t leave Iraq: quit Afghanistan instead

Iain Duncan Smith

Britain has sleepwalked into a fierce military engagement in Helmand province in Afghanistan, blind to the strategic consequences of doing so. When we first deployed troops in the province, the Defence Secretary at the time said he "hoped" they would be out without firing a shot. Since then, our troops have had to be reinforced and now find themselves holding the line between the Kabul Government and the Taleban.

The British Army is fighting a war on two fronts with resources depleted by defence cuts. Not surprisingly, the military chiefs decided something had to give - and the powers that be chose Iraq. The Iraq war is unpopular at home and the pressure for more troops and equipment in Afghanistan grows daily. Afghanistan v Iraq: it's a "no brainer". Or is it?

Of course, supporting the fledgeling democratic Government in Kabul is important; but Iraq is much more strategically vital. It is galling that after all the hard work our forces have put in to stabilising Iraq, their withdrawal should be seen by the world as a retreat. But by failing to get the balance of priorities right between Iraq and Afghanistan we have only ourselves to blame.

The UK is America's most capable ally in Iraq. Other Western nations such as Germany and France steadfastly refuse to be involved militarily, citing their opposition to the war - although the recent foiled bomb plots in Germany show that that cuts no ice with al-Qaeda. However, France and Germany supported the Afghan war and, given our commitment in Iraq, their forces should now be deployed in Helmand province, not ours. Yet they won't do their bit. The British Government should have been raising merry hell with them every time our ministers meet, telling them their failure to face up to their responsibilities is shameful. Yet little seems to happen.

Background

It is strange that, at the moment General Petraeus is demonstrating that the surge in US forces is yielding results in Baghdad and beyond, the British seem to quit the field. It sends all the wrong signals to the insurgents and Iran, which stands to gain enormously from the British departure. This is a strategic mistake at a time when we are trying to apply international pressure on Iran to stop developing nuclear weapons.

The problems in Iraq are great but the rewards for success are also huge. Al-Qaeda has thrown everything into Iraq and to show it can be beaten would send shockwaves around the world. A democratic Iraq is a challenge to the violent ideology of militant Islam, and would stabilise the whole region in a way Afghanistan cannot. After all the superhuman effort over the past few years, a precipitate British withdrawal, which has its roots in our appallingly underfunded and undermanned army, makes no sense.

• Have your say

> Medical Facilities in Afghanistan

Medical Facilities in Afghanistan

16 Sep 07

The Sunday Telegraph has published an article today, Sunday 16 September 2007, claiming that there are critical shortages of doctors for British troops in Afghanistan and that the 40-bed field hospital at Camp Bastion, the main British base in Helmand, closed its doors twice in the past six months because it ran out of beds.

British medics from 208 Field Hospital treat casualties from the suicide bomb attack in Gereshk earlier this month
[Picture: MOD]

Camp Bastion field hospital was never closed. Bed occupancy at the various field hospitals is controlled by Regional Command (South) across its Area of Operations and hospitals have overlapping arcs. British casualties are sent to the field hospital at Camp Bastion wherever possible but it is not unusual for UK troops to be treated in other facilities in the RC(S) area. We often treat other International Security Assistance Force, Afghan National Army troops, Afghan National Police or civilians in our facilities as well.

Threat levels around the AO fluctuate and as a result we constantly rebalance where our medical staff are based and move doctors around depending on the balance of risk or whether we are conducting an operation etc.

The Sunday Telegraph article reports that the shortage of doctors was revealed following the death last month of Captain David Hicks, second-in-command of C (Essex) Company 1 Royal Anglians, who they say had repeatedly requested that a doctor capable of conducting emergency minor surgery be sent to Patrol Base Inkerman in the Sangin valley.

For Inkerman, where the threat level went up over a short period of time, we assessed the risk and we immediately rebalanced our doctors, taking advantage of a doctor returning from R&R to base him there. He was swapped to Inkerman and arrived the day after Capt Hicks was killed. We have combat medical technicians at forward operating bases (FOB). They are trained to deliver specialist trauma care. A combat medical technician is based at Inkerman.

Doctors are the only people able to write prescriptions and administer primary care, which is important in locations where the threat of indirect fire (such as PB Inkerman) means that movement of helicopters is minimised and as such primary care and long term health planning is more safely delivered at the FOB or PB rather than back at the facility at Camp Bastion. They do not deliver trauma care that is any different to that administered by a Combat Medical Technician.

> England's Northern Cavalry' on the charge in Helmand

DefenceNews Article

Military Operations

'England's Northern Cavalry' on the charge in Helmand

13 Sep 07

Nicknamed England's Northern Cavalry, it is not horses that The Light Dragoons have gone into battle with in southern Afghanistan but robust and effective tracked vehicles. Report by Major John Godfrey and Corporal Jon Bevan.

Major John Godfrey watches the battle commence in the Green Zone from his armoured Spartan vehicle
[Picture: Corporal Jon Bevan RLC]

During the last few months, the armoured vehicles of The Light Dragoons' B Squadron, better known as CVR(T) or Combat Vehicle Reconnaissance (Tracked), have covered a combined total of over 40,000 miles, often operating right at the limit of support helicopter range. Indeed B Squadron are the only sub-unit to have operated to the north of Musa-Qaleh, in support of operations around Gereshk and the Lower Sangin Valley, and on the banks of the 'fish hook' of the River Helmand in the far south of the Province.

Renowned for being a close-knit unit it is this bond that has been the key to the unit's success during their current operational tour, a tour which has seen them regularly conduct dangerous patrols and brought them face to face with the Taliban.

CVR(T) may be no spring chicken, but it continues to demonstrate its effectiveness on the ground in Afghanistan. During a recent operation, B Squadron conducted a 220 kilometre insertion to establish a screen to the north of the River Helmand.

It was a classic Formation Reconnaissance task, B Squadron outflanking known and suspected Taliban defensive positions to the north of Sangin by crossing the dominating Musa-Qaleh wadi at the very base of the Province's northern mountain range.

In Helmand it's impossible to avoid the attention of the Taliban's own reconnaissance network; motorcycles trailed the multinational patrol from a distance, reporting their approach throughout. The deliberate crossing of the kilometre wide and 100 metre deep natural obstacle of the wadi and the final 45 kilometre approach of the patrol was therefore completed at high speed in just five hours, with the patrol changing direction every kilometre to keep Taliban ambush teams en route guessing as to its ultimate destination. Once in position, the Squadron was surrounded in all directions by a combination of natural obstacles and known enemy strongholds.

Corporal John Ford a vehicle mechanic works solidly trying to fix the vehicle even through the night without rest
[Picture: Corporal Jon Bevan RLC]

CVR(T) was designed for use in the rubber plantations of Malaya. It entered service in the early 1970s and, with considerable improvements, is destined to remain in service with the British Army for many more years. It is armed with a number of weapons systems which have proven highly effective in the 40 plus contacts the Squadron has fought over the sweltering summer months.

In August, air conditioning units arrived in theatre to help the crews in the battle against daily driver's cab temperatures of over 65 degrees centigrade. The units are a necessary and welcome addition to the vehicle. However, perhaps the most significant improvement to the vehicle has been the increased armour protection.

During one patrol, the Squadron suffered its first mine strike. Second Lieutenant Merlin Hanbury Tenison, aged 22, from Bodmin, is on his first deployment. Although his Scimitar vehicle was written off, the crew of three walked away completely unscathed:

"We were blown about three feet in the air and the vehicle came to a standstill 50 metres away," he said. "It took a few seconds to realise what had happened, and it was the single most terrifying moment of my life. I was convinced that I was going to die and even worse I thought my crew were all dead."

2nd Lt Hanbury Tenison, like many of his colleagues, believes the training he and his men received - up to ten months before the actual deployment - has prepared them well:

"The training has been superb and it made me ready for combat. The first time that you are shot at, your training kicks in just as the people who taught you said it would. Nothing can prepare you for driving over mines but my friends and colleagues have been very supportive and I can only equate this to falling off a bicycle and getting back on again. Banter between the men makes life bearable over here and even cheating death can be joked about."

The armoured column during the long drive to the first halt across the desert
[Picture: Corporal Jon Bevan RLC]

The Scimitar driver, Trooper Lee Dobbs, aged 20, whose father Mark recently left the Squadron after his six month tour of duty, added:

"One minute we were talking on the intercom about how great this patrol was, driving over mountain dunes, the next minute there was a big explosion and silence. When the vehicle stopped a few seconds later I turned around screaming for my Troop Leader and my friend. I was so relieved when both their heads popped up out of the gun turret."

The Estonian Explosive Ordance Disposal (EOD) team attached to the patrol swept a safe route to the vehicle and after all BOWMAN radio equipment, weapons and personal equipment had been recovered, the vehicle was denied. The incident provided a sobering reminder of the everyday dangers that the vehicle crews face, but also amply illustrated the excellent protection afforded to them.

The Squadron's unsung heroes are their 12 man Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME) Fitter Section. On this patrol, Corporal John Ford a Vehicle Mechanic worked tirelessly with a Spartan vehicle crew for 12 hours throughout the night using a tiny light source to fix a broken down vehicle. While the vehicle crews get into their routine and snatch a few hours of rest each night, the REME soldiers simply do whatever it takes in order to get broken vehicles back on the road.

Lance Corporal Louis Iddon watches from the commanders hatch of his Spartan armoured vehicle
[Picture: Corporal Jon Bevan RLC]

Urgent spare parts are delivered directly to the field and new engines and assemblies, carefully wrapped in foam padding by the Squadron's support staff in Camp Bastion are routinely dropped by airplane or helicopter to the remote desert locations in a matter of hours. The Squadron's availability has remained impressively high throughout the tour.

B Squadron's Commanding Officer, Major John Godfrey, summed up his feelings towards all of his soldiers:

"Afghanistan is a theatre of operations in which British soldiers put the theoretical tactics and ideas taught at its training schools like Brecon and Warminster into actual practice on a daily basis. The enthusiasm shown by the soldiers and their determination to take the fight to the enemy is unstinting. The sense of achievement that we all share at the end of a patrol is something that I have never previously experienced on an operational tour."

British troops are left without medics

By Sean Rayment, Defence Correspondent

Last Updated: 1:29am BST 16/09/2007

The war in Afghanistan is being severely hampered by critical shortages of doctors, helicopters and troops, The Sunday Telegraph has found.

Frontline: Our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan

Despite Tony Blair's promise last year that the Army would be given whatever resources commanders need, shortfalls of vital equipment in Helmand, where 7,000 troops are based, remain.

	Senior officers are under strict orders not to make public demands for more helicopters because the RAF has no more to send

The Ministry of Defence has constantly denied claims that there are too few helicopters in Afghanistan or that commanders are being hampered by shortages of kit and equipment.

After spending three weeks on the front line in Helmand with the Royal Anglian Regiment, however, it can be revealed:

* one military base under daily Taliban attack spent three weeks without a doctor
* the main military hospital in Helmand has run out of beds twice in six month
* no formal system exists in the Army to replace soldiers killed and injured in battle
* helicopter shortages have meant that one isolated base was down to its last 50 rounds of mortar ammunition
* the commanding officer of one unit was stranded at a base for five days by the lack of helicopters
* heavy machine guns in use by the Army are 55 years old

The shortage of doctors in Helmand was revealed following the death last month of Captain David Hicks, second-in-command of C (Essex) Com-p-any 1 Royal Anglians. He had repeatedly requested that a doctor capable of conducting emergency minor surgery be sent to Patrol Base Inkerman in the Sangin valley.

It has also emerged that the 40-bed field hospital at Camp Bastion, the main British base in Helmand, was forced to close its doors twice in the past six months because it ran out of beds. The last occasion was on September 5 following a Taliban attack on an Army patrol that left two soldiers dead and two seriously injured. Soldiers subsequently injured were flown to military hospitals belonging to other coalition members.

One officer who asked not to be named said: "We paid lip service to medical cover in peace time and now we are paying the price. We have only two-thirds of the staff we need. It all comes down to risk management: you should have a doctor in every location where you have more than 100 troops but that is not the case in Helmand. We are making do and we are risking lives."

It can also be revealed that there is no formal system for replacing soldiers killed and injured in battle. Individual regimental organisations must provide their own replacement or "borrow" troops from other units. Remarkably, some of the heavy machine guns being used on operations were made in 1952; many of the armoured vehicles are more than 30 years old.

A total of 78 troops have been killed and hundreds more injured in battle since troops arrived in Afghanistan in 2001. The vast majority of those deaths or injuries have been incurred within the past 18 months since British troops arrived in Helmand.

Patrick Mercer, the Tory MP who is a former infantry commander, called on the Government to give more support to troops in Afghanistan.

"In the past two weeks four soldiers from my own regiment have died in combat," he said. "The Ministry of Defence must make sure that these men have the equipment and doctors they need."

Lieutenant Colonel Richard Eaton, the Army spokesman in Helmand, said: "Brigadier John Lorimer has gone on the record as saying that he has all the resources he needs to complete his military objectives. But like all commanders he could achieve more if he had more resources."

Support helicopters: British commanders in Afghanistan have access to 10 support helicopters, eight Chinooks and two smaller Lynx. However, the Lynx cannot fly during daylight hours because of the effect of the intense heat on their engines.

Support helicopters are vital to operations because of the dangers of moving troops, fuel, ammunition, rations and water by road.

During very busy periods, commanders can call on the resources of American helicopters based at Kandahar.

The lack of support helicopters has hampered the Ministry of Defence since the start of the Afghan campaign. Senior officers are under strict orders not to make public demands for more helicopters because the RAF has no more to send.

Medics: Wounded troops receive excellent care at the field hospital in Camp Bastion but there are growing concerns that, as the fighting intensifies, hard-pressed doctors and nurses will be unable to cope.

There is a shortage of doctors and surgeons from every discipline in the defence medical services with more than a third of posts vacant. Twice in six months, the 40-bed Camp Bastion hospital has run out of beds to treat casualties.

Battle casualty replacements: The Army has no formal system of sending troops to Afghanistan to replace those killed or injured in battle. Instead, regiments are told to "make their own arrangements".

Most troops being sent to Helmand as reinforcements are young and inexperienced, often straight out of training.

Although finding additional troops has not been a problem for the Royal Anglians, who are the best recruited regiment in the Army, it will be a concern for commanders of units that are 10 or 20 per cent below strength, the case with the majority of infantry units.

> Sergeant Craig Brelsford and Private ...

Sergeant Craig Brelsford and Private Johan Botha killed in Afghanistan

9 Sep 07

It is with deep regret that the Ministry of Defence must confirm the deaths of Sergeant Craig Brelsford and Private Johan Botha, both from The 2nd Battalion, The Mercian Regiment (Worcesters and Foresters), in Afghanistan on Saturday 8 September 2007.

Sergeant Craig Brelsford
[Picture: MOD]

A number of other soldiers were also injured in the incident, two are in a serious condition. Sergeant Brelsford and Private Botha were taking part in a pre-planned operation to disrupt Taliban activity, south of Garmsir, southern Helmand, Province, when their patrol was attacked by enemy fighters shortly after 0045 hours local time. Sadly Sergeant Brelsford and Private Botha were both killed during the subsequent heavy firefight to repel the enemy. A number of Taliban were also killed.

Sergeant Craig Brelsford

Sergeant Craig Brelsford of A (Grenadier) Company, 2nd Battalion, The Mercian Regiment (Worcesters and Foresters) was born on 16 September 1981, he was days away from his 26th birthday. From Nottingham, he was enlisted into the Army on 6 April 1999 and joined 1st Battalion, Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters (29th/45th of Foot) just as the Battalion deployed to Omagh, Northern Ireland in December of the same year.

Sergeant Brelsford served in Northern Ireland on three operational tours and had previously served in Afghanistan on Operation HERRICK 1 in 2004. Additionally he had deployed with his Battalion to Belize (on two occasions) and Kenya on arduous exercises.

Lieutenant Colonel Simon Banton, Commanding Officer 2nd Battalion The Mercian Regiment (Worcesters and Foresters) said:

"Sergeant Craig Brelsford was a hugely popular man and a superb senior non-commissioned officer; fit, strong and robust, he led from the front. It is unsurprising that he fell while attempting to rescue wounded soldiers under enemy fire. Junior soldiers were inspired by him and aspired to follow the example he set. He was assured a bright future and had an enormous amount of potential. His death is keenly felt across the Battalion. He will be sorely missed."

Major Jamie Nowell, Officer Commanding A (Grenadier) Company said:

"Sergeant Craig Brelsford served as a Platoon Sergeant in No 3 Platoon and was a rising star in the Regiment. Despite his relative youth he was incredibly talented and possessed potential and maturity beyond his years. Sergeant Brelsford was one of the most dedicated, professional and highly focused Infantry commanders I have been privileged to work with. He died maintaining the incredibly high standards he lived for and protecting his soldiers' lives - his troops always came first.

"Charismatic, intelligent, tough and robust; Sergeant Brelsford was the perfect Infantry commander. I am convinced that if he had been given the opportunity to choreograph his own death it would not have been dissimilar to the heroic circumstances in which he died. Sergeant Brelsford was killed in action attacking a well defended Taliban position in an attempt to protect and evacuate his wounded comrades. He repeatedly fought through tenacious enemy fire to extract casualties and was hit on his final attack to find Private Botha, also killed in action, who had fallen behind enemy lines - this exceptionally courageous act of bravery and selfless commitment personified the character of Sergeant Brelsford.

"Sergeant Brelsford was not only the consummate professional; he was extremely popular with a friendly, outgoing and mischievous sense of humour which endeared him to everyone. He was idolised by his troops and held in high esteem by his peers. The loss of Sergeant Brelsford is a deep wound to his Company and the wider Battalion. He will be missed by all of us and forgotten by none - it will take some considerable time for the wounds and sense of loss to heal. Our thoughts and prayers go to his family and friends who have lost an exceptional young man."

Company Sergeant Major Pete Lewis, A (Grenadier) Company said:

"'Brels' arrived in the Company a year ago and took over 3 Platoon where he immediately stamped his authority and leadership style on the Platoon, turning it into an excellent team. From the first time I met Sergeant Brelsford he was a pillar to me and somebody I could trust and rely on. In the field he was second to none; one of the best soldiers I have had the honour of working with. There will be a void in the Company where he stood, alongside his soldiers to the end. He will be sorely missed but never forgotten."

Lieutenant Simon Cupples and Second Lieutenant Andy Bell, his Platoon Commanders said:

"Sergeant Brelsford was an extremely professional soldier. He was respected and liked a great deal by the Platoon - something which is not an easy task for a Platoon Sergeant considering the nature of the job. His impressive rise through the ranks and the wealth of knowledge he possessed were reflected in his actions on the ground throughout the tour. His sense of humour led to a natural rapport with everyone he met. Throughout the whole tour Sergeant Brelsford, time and time again, demonstrated calm and considered leadership under pressure and incredible bravery in the face of the enemy. The night he died was no exception to this.

"His death has left a huge gap in both his Platoon and Company and he will be remembered not only for how he served his Platoon, but also as a friend and talented military commander."

Corporal Rocco Zecca, Section Commander and close friend said:

"I first met Sgt Brelsford when I arrived at the Battalion and he was placed in my Platoon. He had arrived five days before me which basically made us the 'new blokes'.

"As a soldier Sergeant Brelsford was very well respected because, despite having only served eight years in the Army, he was recognised as a flyer. He had managed to promote quickly and the amount of courses he had completed in his eight years far exceeded what most would accomplish in their full twenty two. Sergeant Brelsford will always be remembered by 3 Platoon for being a great leader of men as well as a true friend."

Private Paul Bood & Private Samuel Murray - soldiers in Sergeant Brelsford's Platoon said:

"Sergeant Brelsford will be missed by us all, as he was an excellent Platoon Sergeant and a great friend to everyone. He was a funny man and we will all miss his stories, especially the one about the 'armpit'. His death has hit us all in many different ways. He will be missed not just by the Platoon but by everyone who knew him. He will always be in our hearts and minds."

Private Johan Botha
[Picture: MOD]

Private Johan Botha

Private Johan Botha of A (Grenadier) Company, 2nd Battalion, The Mercian Regiment (Worcesters and Foresters) was born in South Africa and enlisted in his home country on 8 June 2005. From Pretoria, he joined 1st Battalion, Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regiment (29th/45th of Foot) in January 2006. This was his first operational deployment and his first deployment overseas with the Army.

Lieutenant Colonel Simon Banton, Commanding Officer 2nd Battalion The Mercian Regiment said:

"Private Botha was a mountain of a man; fit, strong and robust. He was a model soldier and a proud citizen of South Africa. A keen and talented rugby player, he was eagerly looking forward to this rugby world cup. Devoted to his wife and young daughter; our thoughts are with them at this terrible time."

Major Jamie Nowell, Officer Commanding A (Grenadier) Company said:

"Private Botha was the archetypal South African - incredibly proud, strong, tough, robust and an excellent soldier. His natural talent for soldiering was obvious and I would have difficulty picturing him working in any other environment. On the flip side he was a devoted family man; the strong bond and sense of responsibility he held for his wife and daughter were humbling. Private Botha was fortunate enough to have two important families; the one he left at home and missed each and every day - and the one he lived and fought with in Afghanistan. He made incredible sacrifices for each of these family units and fought for them both with passion, pride and devotion.

"Private Botha was killed in action at the very front of an intense battle on the Taliban front line in southern Afghanistan. He had been amidst tenacious fighting on many occasions and was a courageous and brave soldier. He provided support and example to the younger soldiers around him; especially under fire where his calm, professional leadership and aggressive, robust response to enemy action were a testament to his character.

"Private Botha died as a soldier fighting with his friends. The loss of such a fine soldier, friend and colleague will live with the Company forever - he will not be forgotten. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, daughter and family at this time of intense loss."

Lieutenant Simon Cupples, his Platoon Commander said:

"Private Botha was a larger than life character. With a physically dominating frame and a loud personality he always had a presence wherever he was. He was a confident soldier who helped and guided the younger soldiers. Private Botha was South African and had moved to the UK with his wife four years ago. He joined the Battalion in September 2005 and soon became one of the main characters in the Platoon. He had a real passion for soldiering and nothing would faze him. He was looking forward to the Battalion moving to Northern Ireland as that would allow him more time for training, sport and family after two years of public duties. I had also just recommended him for a junior commander's cadre as it was clear that he was ready for promotion after his exceptional performance on operations.

"Private Botha's performance had been excellent throughout this tour. He always worked hard and was never afraid to get into a fight with the enemy. He was also a devoted family man and constantly thought and spoke of his wife and daughter back home. It was clear that even though he loved his job, they were the main priority in his life. He died a true soldier and our hearts are with his wife and baby girl."

Pte Kevin Latham, friend and colleague said:

"Private Botha was a well loved and energetic man who loved his family, his mates, his job and his South African heritage. Private Botha died the way a true soldier should. Our section was engaged heavily by an enemy position with intense and accurate fire used to pin us down. In the thick of this was Private Botha. Private Botha was injured and he went to ground. He continued to fight, although he was very seriously injured and despite his severe injuries he was still able to engage the enemy until the very end, ensuring the safety of all his mates. That's what Private Botha was like, always up for the scrap. Private Botha leaves behind a wife, a daughter and his mates. He will always be with us and his family in spirit and will never be forgotten."

Private Kyle Smith, friend and colleague said:

"Private Botha was a hard working, professional bloke who always set a great example to his younger peers. He was a character that everyone respected and also loved. He would put his friends first in any situation. There will be so much that will be missed about Private Botha but he will never be forgotten."

Des Browne, Secretary of State for Defence, said:

"Sergeant Brelsford and Private Botha's deaths are very sad. These brave men have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country and I am sure that they will be sorely missed by all who knew them. I would like to offer my sincere condolences to their families and friends, who are in my thoughts at this difficult time."

> Local lads prepare for dangerous role...

Local lads prepare for dangerous role in war-ravaged Afghanistan

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As the British Army prepares to bolster the peace-keeping force in southern Afghanistan, reporter Mike Chipchase meets some of the 500 young men from the region who are heading to one of the most dangerous places in the world.

On Wednesday, two British soldiers were killed in an explosion in Helmand Province, in southern Afghan-istan.

The deaths of Private Damian Wright, 23, from Mansfield, and Private Ben Ford, 18, from Chesterfield, brought the total number of British troops to have lost their lives in the war-ravaged country to 76 in the past six years.

It is a stark reminder of the perils facing the 540 soldiers of 2nd Battalion the Yorkshire Regiment, who are heading to Helmand for a six-month tour of duty.

From next week, the regiment will form part of 52 Infantry Brigade, which is to relieve the Grenadier Guards, in Operation Herrick.

The battalion, formerly known as The Green Howards, has traditionally recruited young men from the North-East and North Yorkshire. And 80 per cent of those leaving for Afghanistan over the next few weeks are from this region.

Lieutenant Colonel Simon Downey, commanding officer of the battalion known as 2 Yorks, said: "It is a challenging area.

"The test is to train and mentor the Afghan national army in Helmand Province. We will be living alongside our counterparts and deploying with them to allow the democratic government of Afghanistan to do its job.

"While I would not want to be complacent or underestimate the challenge that lies ahead, we are well trained and ready to take forward what is a key part of the international community's remit.

"Like any battalion, we have got people who have served for a number of tours and we have others for whom this will be their first deployment."

The battalion returned from a tour of duty in Bosnia towards the end of last year, but this is undoubtedly its most dangerous mission in recent years.

The six-month deployment will mean the vast majority of 2 Yorks will be away from their loved ones and friends over Christmas.

Lt Col Downey said: "Tours always bring particular challenges, and Christmas is one.

"We will enjoy Christmas in southern Afghanistan and we will ensure that he families who are left at home will be given the support to enjoy their Christmas at home."

Home for the battalion is now Weeton Barracks, near Kirkham, Lancashire. They moved into their new base in July from their previous barracks in Chepstow.

Kate Steventon, 42, is one of the many wives who will be waiting anxiously for their men to return safe and sound.

Mrs Steventon, whose husband Major Marc Steventon is a quartermaster, said: "We will be worrying. There is apprehension, like with any other tour - the concern is where it is and the current situation over there. It doesn't lend itself to a safe environment for the soldiers."

She added: "There is a bond between the families that are left behind - it brings the community together.

"But Christmas is a tough time for the kids, and it's important that they keep communication lines open with their parents overseas.

PRIVATE ALAN ATKINSON

PRIVATE Alan Atkinson, 26, from Scarborough, joined the army as a boy soldier straight from school.

His past tours have involved working in Northern Ireland, Kosovo and Bosnia.

He said: "Northern Ireland was quite an eye opener for me. I went there a boy and came back somewhat more of a man."

As an experienced soldier, he is fully aware of what lies ahead.

He said: "This trip is going to be hard graft.

"You think when you join the army 'am I going to see a war?' - and this will be the first time that I have been in a war situation.

"I'm not saying I'm going to be scared; you've got to think positive and look to your training and skills. You can't switch off for one minute."

Pte Atkinson said it will be difficult adapting to the conditions in Afghanistan.

"I will miss normal life," he said, "because it won't be like normal life out there. We will be living in sand and dirt, but you've just got to crack on with it.

"It's a job and we've got to get it done - nobody else is going to do it."

One of the things he said he was looking forward to was getting back into shape.

He said: "We've had quite a bit of a lull since Bosnia, so the lads are looking forward to getting back into the gym, getting fit and getting into the swing of things again."

PRIVATE TIM GARGAN

HAVING served in Iraq with the 4th Battalion, Private Tim Gargan is no stranger to the harsh world of deployment to a war-torn area.

The 23-year-old, from Scarborough, has been with 2nd Battalion the Yorkshire Regiment for a year, and says he is looking forward to his first tour of duty in Afghanistan.

He said: "It's what I joined the Army for. I always wanted to be a soldier from being a young lad.

"I want to see all these different places and work with different nationalities, and I think what we are going to do is a worthwhile job."

Although Pte Gargan has no qualms about heading into an extremely dangerous area, his mother, father and sister have other thoughts.

He said: "My mum and dad are obviously worried, but they are happy when I'm happy, and I am very happy in my job."

The driver and medic says he is hoping for the same reaction from the Afghan people as he received in Iraq.

He said: "The majority of people we came across in Iraq were pleased to see us. Some of them used to come up and say 'thank you' to us for being there, although some were not so happy. That's just the way it goes.

"I hope they will be able to see the good that we are doing."

He said he would miss playing rugby for Scarborough Thirds and walking his two Border collies while away on deployment.

PRIVATE JOHN WALKER

AT 32, and with ten years' service under his belt, Private John Walker is one of 2 Yorks' more experienced soldiers.

The veteran of tours in Kosovo, Northern Ireland and Bosnia is cautious about what he and his comrades are likely to come face-to-face with in the infamous Taliban stronghold of Helmand Province.

The former sports retail worker, from Linthorpe, Middlesbrough, said: "I was a relatively late starter in the Army, but I have been on three tours now.

"I'm happy I am going to Afghanistan, but it is worrying what could happen out there. It's going to be a dangerous tour."

Despite the obvious dangers, Pte Walker is confident in his own and his colleagues' ability to handle the situation.

He said: "You rely on your training kicking in and the lads around you.

"The lads that I am going to be with are from a different battalion, so I will have to get to know them quickly."

Apart from not seeing his two young children for the best part of six months, Pte Walker said he will miss his beloved Middlesbrough football team.

He said: "I'm a season ticket holder at the Riverside and travel back for home games when I'm not on duty.

"I was one of the few that were there last week," he laughed.

He also admitted it will be hard to be away from home at Christmas.

"It's going to be tough over there at Christmas, missing the kids and the rest of the family. But no matter where we are, we always do a good job."

PRIVATE TOM FOSTER

ONE of the battalion's newest and youngest members is Private Thomas Foster.

The 19-year-old, from Whitby, North Yorkshire, has been in the Army for just under a year, and admits he feels a certain amount of trepidation ahead of his first tour of duty.

Pte Foster said: "I thought initially when I came to the battalion that I would see a bit of the world, but two weeks in, I found out I would be going to Afghanistan.

"To be honest, I'm a bit scared, but we've been well trained and I can't wait to get amongst it.

"I'm looking forward to being with the Afghan soldiers. It will be good to see how they live in the heat and the different conditions and to see how their army compares to ours.

"My job is with a team which will provide cover and fire support for the other teams. We will be covering their backs in case anything goes wrong and keeping them up to date with what is happening around them."

The former pupil at St Joseph's School, in Loftus, and Sacred Heart School, in Redcar, is a keen footballer and cricketer, who plays regularly as an all-rounder for Staithes Cricket Club.

He added: "I sat down with my family the other day and they said they are always here for me, no matter what. But they are going to be scared and worried.

"The main thing I will miss about home is lager - and my family and friends, of course."

RIFLEMAN GARY McCABE

RIFLEMAN Gary McCabe, 20, from Billingham, Teesside, admitted to having mixed feelings about being sent to keep the peace in southern Afghanistan.

The former Billingham Campus School pupil is another who joined the ranks straight after leaving school four years ago.

He said: "I made up my mind that I wanted to join up while in school. I'm looking forward to this tour and I'm not. I'm looking forward to going to a different place, but I'm not looking forward to what could happen.

"The hardest thing is how high it could kick off and that somebody close to me could actually get killed."

Pte McCabe said those fears were shared by his family back in Billingham.

He said: "I think that, deep down, they don't want me to go, but they are behind me all the way."