He was conducting a patrol near Kajaki, in Helmand Province with Lieutenant John Thornton, 23, both of 40 Commando Royal Marines, shortly before 5pm local time on Sunday when their vehicle was caught in a blast.

Medical treatment was provided before both soldiers were taken to the field hospital at Camp Bastion but, despite the best efforts of the medical team, both died as a result of their wounds, the Ministry of Defence said.

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Lieutenant Colonel Stuart Birrell, Commanding Officer 40 Commando Royal Marines, known as Charlie Company
His resolve and determination to succeed in all he undertook was truly breathtaking.
A consummate professional, he was deeply respected in his company. In battle he was steadfast and utterly dependable, in barracks he was a true friend and comrade whose presence was a comfort in difficult times.
A loving, compassionate husband and father, he will be dearly missed by his wife, Claire, and his young daughter, Molly, along with his parents Gary and Maxine, and his sister, Katie.

Major Duncan Manning, Officer Commanding Charlie Company
A larger-than-life character, he was known by all, and respected by both peers and commanders alike.
For him the glass was always half full and regardless of conditions he remained positive.
The one thing that always struck you when you saw Marine Marsh, regardless of the time of day, was his smile that appeared to be ever-present, lifting the morale for those around.
His ready wit and good humour were balanced, however, with high professional skills and a devotion to his chosen profession.
"He could regularly be seen behind the aiming sight of his Javelin missile system, maintaining his focus for hours on end.
If any member of his troop were to find themselves in a difficult and dangerous situation, it was Dave Marsh they wanted by their side. It is for this reason that his troop commander selected Dave to be his driver.

Warrant Officer First Class 'Brum' Warrington
He had a streak of devilment in him that kept everyone on their toes, as he loved to play pranks on anyone who let their guard down.
He was the character that every Royal Marine Company needed and every Sergeant Major loved to have around, for so many different reasons.

Sergeant Darren 'Daz' Joyce, Fire Support Group Troop Sergeant, Charlie Company
Marine Dave Marsh, or 'Comedy Dave', was an outstanding character and a true 'Bootneck'.
Committed to his family and work, socially he was always there to lift spirits when times were hard.

Corporal 'Cash' Cashman, Fire Support Group Section Commander, Charlie Company
Larger-than-life Dave 'Billy the Kid' will be remembered for his boundless energy and manic character.
A permanent source of morale for his fellow Marines, his professionalism was without question and doing his job so well made my job so much easier.