MoD Names Marines Killed In Afghan Blast
The British servicemen killed in an explosion in Afghanistan on Friday have been named by the Ministry of Defence.
They were Mne Sam Alexander, 28, from Hammersmith in west London, and Lieutenant Ollie Augustin, from Kent, both of 42 Commando Royal Marines.
The pair were on patrol in the Loy Mandeh area of the Nad-e Ali District of Helmand Province when they were caught in a blast from an IED (improvised explosive device).
Mne Alexander was awarded the Military Cross for gallantry during a previous tour of Afghanistan.
Colleagues said he embodied the attributes of a Royal Marines Commando and was "courageous, selfless, resolute".
As well as his wife Claire, he leaves a one-year-old son Leo, mother Serena and father Stuart.
Lt Augustin, who was leading the patrol on Friday, leaves his father Sean, his mother Jane and his sister Sarah.
Mne Alexander received the Military Cross in 2009 after saving the life of a colleague who had been wounded by Taliban fighters.
The citation said he carried out his brave actions "despite being completely exposed to heavy and accurate enemy fire".
His wife Claire said "Sam was so special. He was the gentlest of men but tough when he needed to be.
"Sam was a loving husband and a wonderful father. He was our rock and my best friend. He has been taken from me all too soon."
Lt Augustin, who went to Dartford Grammar School in Kent, began his training in 2009 and was passed fit for duty in December last year.
His colleagues described him as a passionate and selfless leader.
His parents, Jane and Sean, said: "Ollie was a much loved and cherished son. He was a beautiful boy who we were very proud of."
His sister Sarah added: "Ollie, you were a one in a million. You were brave, you were funny and I couldn't have wished for a better brother."
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