British soldier shot dead on patrol in Afghanistan named by MoD

Corporal Richard Green was killed on Tuesday

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Thursday, 04, Mar 2010 06:00

By Richard James.

A British soldier shot dead while on patrol in southern Afghanistan has been named as Corporal Richard Green by the Ministry of Defence.

Corporal Green, 23, from 3rd Battalion the Rifles (3 Rifles) was killed in southern Sangin, Helmand province, on Tuesday.

Hi family paid tribute to him in a statement released by the MoD, saying: "Richard was a larger than life character who packed so much into his short life.

"In his own words he was the Greenmeister, a true legend. He wouldn't want any of us mourning his death, rather he would want us all to celebrate his life. On his recent R&R Richard said 'If anything happens to me know that I've lived life to the full, have no regrets, and love my job'.

"We are so proud of him and will miss him more than words can ever say, but we do take comfort from the thought that, if there is a heaven, he is now having a laugh with his friends whose lives have been taken, just like his, over the past year."

His commanding officer Lieutenant Colonel Nick Kitson added: "Corporal Green has never faltered nor taken a backward step, leading others selflessly, both by his example and his compelling personality. In the field and on operations he has been in his element, setting the highest standards and excelling in every way.

"The battle group has lost one of its most capable young commanders and his sudden absence leaves both a large gap and a heavier burden. We shall continue his work with renewed vigour.

"Cut down by a gunman hiding in the shadows, Corporal Green died whilst standing firm and proud alongside the Afghan warriors who are increasingly taking security responsibility from the British troops here."

He added the thoughts and prayers of the entire battle group went out to Corporal Green's family and loved ones.

"We know that they will remember him, as we do, with nothing but pride, drawing comfort and strength from this revered memory," he added.

Since operations began in Afghanistan in 2001, 268 British service personnel have been killed.