Marines killed in Afghanistan

Two Royal Marines have been killed in an explosion in southern Afghanistan, the Ministry of Defence has said. The pair, whose next of kin have been told, were serving with the Nato-led International Security Assistance Force, which has sent the families its "deepest sympathies".
ISAF's Brigadier General Richard Blanchette said: "Their lives are irreplaceable to all of us who fight for the peace and stability of Afghanistan." The men, from UK Landing Force Command Support Group, were taking part in a joint patrol with soldiers from Afghan security forces.
Their vehicle was struck by an explosive device in the Garmsir district of Southern Helmand yesterday afternoon. Commander Paula Rowe, of Task Force Helmand, said: "This is a tragic blow to us all in the task force, but our loss is nothing compared to that of their families and loved ones."