Identities of troops killed in Afghanistan released
Thursday, 26 Jun 2008 11:11
Two British troops killed in Afghanistan named
Two British troops killed in Afghanistan have been named as Private Joe Whittaker and Sergeant Major Michael Williams.
The pair were killed on Tuesday. Sergeant Major Williams died in a firefight with the Taliban, while Private Whittaker was killed whilst checking for mines.
The deaths occurred in separate incidents but were part of the same operation.
Defence secretary Des Browne today said he was "deeply saddened" by the soldiers' deaths.
"They both died in the most heroic of circumstances," Mr Browne said.
"Company Sergeant Major Williams was taking part in a deliberate operation to drive Taliban fighters from the Upper Sangin Valley and Private Whittaker was checking the road for mines to ensure the safety of his comrades.
"At this extremely difficult time, my thoughts are with their family, friends and comrades."