TRAVIS MACKINRoyal Marine Travis Mackin was killed on 11 January, 2009 by an explosion in southern Afghanistan.
The 22-year-old marine was from UK Landing Force Command Support Group, operating as part of 45 Commando Royal Marines.
He was killed in action in Kajaki, northern Helmand Province during a joint patrol with Victor Company, 45 Commando Group Royal Marines and the Afghan National Security Forces.
At the time he was leading his team to destroy a key Taliban command cell.
This cell had been responsible for numerous attacks on both coalition and Afghan National Security Forces in the Kajaki area.
Whilst establishing a vital fire-support location to protect his colleagues advancing on a Taliban defensive position, he was killed by an enemy improvised explosive device.
Marine Mackin was a keen sportsman who played ice hockey for the Royal Navy.
His family said: "Travis was a much loved son and brother who is never going to leave us and will be in our hearts and souls forever.
"He lived for the Marines and was so proud of his uniform. His untimely death leaves a massive hole in all the lives of his family and friends.
"He touched the hearts of all those that met him and we are so proud and honoured to have had him in our lives."
His girlfriend Laura said: "I am so honoured to have been his girlfriend and he is irreplaceable in my heart. To me he was the most honourable, unselfish and caring person I have ever known and he never ceased to make me laugh.
"I will miss him beyond words but equally I am so proud to have known this wonderful man."
Major Nigel Somerville said: "A talented, popular and exceptionally courageous individual, Marine Travis Mackin died supporting his colleagues in the face of hostile enemy action.
"Brave, calm and always measured under enemy fire, Travis was synonymous with leading his team from the very front to support his colleagues around him.
"This is how he died and how he will always be remembered. The dedication, loyalty and pure courage shown by someone so young is truly humbling."
The Royal Marine, from Plymouth, was the 139th British serviceman to die there since 2001.
Keep me informed of updates
