MICHAEL JONESRoyal Marine Michael Jones, who died on 29 July, 2007 aged 26 had given eight years of distinguished service in the Army before his untimely death in Afghanistan.
Described as a loyal friend, Lance Corporal Jones worked as a commando in the Special Boats Service and was taking part in an operation in southern Afghanistan when he was fatally wounded.
Whilst in Afghanistan he had been involved in an operation to force Taliban insurgents away from a stronghold position in the Helmand province.
Given direct instructions to arrest rebel Taliban insurgents in the Helmand province, the operation team Lance CorporalJones was serving with came under attack. During the ensuing gun battle Lance CorporalJones was shot and killed whilst bravely defending his position.
Lance Corporal Michael Jones was born on 2 February, 1981 and raised in North Newbald, Yorkshire and enrolled in the Royal Marines on 18 February, 1999 only a few weeks after his 18th birthday.
He had already completed tours of Kosovo and Iraq before his arrival in Afghanistan.
Lieutenant Commander Brenda Steele, from the Nato-led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) said: “It was a specific ground operation against a Taliban group but it looks like they engaged each other with small arms fire.”
She added: “ISAF mourns the loss of this brave soldier. He gave his life for a better future for Afghanistan.”
It is understood that 1500 UK troops have been involved in the specific ground operation against the Taliban working beside colleagues from the United States, Denmark, and Estonia.
Lance CorporalJones was the fourth serviceman to be killed in the country since 25 July, 2007. He is also the 68th member of the British armed forces to be killed in Afghanistan since 2001.
Lance CorporalJones’ Commanding Officer who wished to remain un-named said: “Michael was a truly exceptional Junior Non-Commissioned Officer, the best at his level, who unflinchingly stood, time after time, shoulder to shoulder with his friends in the very worst of conditions. It will be impossible to replace Michael.”
He added: “He will be remembered as a genuine and loyal friend whose selfless bravery whilst assaulting a formidable Taliban position is an example to us all.”
Defence Secretary Des Browne also paid tribute saying: “Lance Corporal Jones was an experienced and courageous Royal Marine.”
“His significant contribution towards the defence of his country will not be forgotten and his loss will be felt by all who knew him.” My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and comrades."
Keep me informed of updates
