Two Soldiers Killed In Afghanistan

Two British soldiers have been killed after their armoured vehicle struck a makeshift bomb in Afghanistan on Thursday.

Both soldiers were from 1st the Queen's Dragoon Guards, which had been providing security in the Yakchal region of Nahr-e-Saraj, according to Task Force Helmand spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Gordon Mackenzie.

Spokesman for Task Force Helmand, Lieutenant Colonel Gordon Mackenzie, said: "It is with great sadness that I must confirm the deaths of two soldiers from 1st The Queen's Dragoon Guards after their vehicle was hit by an IED. Our deepest condolences go out to the families and loved ones of both these brave soldiers at this very difficult time."

The soldiers' families have been informed and have asked for a 24 hour period of grace before further details are released.

A number of tributes have already been paid to one of the soldiers, whose name was released on Friday morning, Lance Corporal Peter Eustace, of 2 Rifles. He was deployed to Afghanistan as a mortar fire controller.

An MoD spokesman said Lance Corporal Eustace, known to his friends as 'Eust', was a huge character and a bedrock of the mortar platoon he loved.

"He had a wicked sense of humour, optimistic nature and love of life that will make him sorely missed by all who had the privilege to know him. Our thoughts and prayers are with his mother, Carol, his sister, Kirsty, his brother, Ryan, and his girlfriend, Aimi."

On Friday, LCpl Eustace's family issued a statement saying: "Peter was very fit and he always wanted to join the Army, he was committed to carrying out a full career there. He will be missed by his family and friends and is loved by all. Peter was a loving son and grandson and will be especially missed by his girlfriend, Aimi. He will also be missed by loving dog Macey."

Meanwhile, Lieutenant Colonel Bill Wright MBE, Commanding Officer 2 Rifles, said: "Lance Corporal Eustace looked and was every inch the archetypal Mortarman: utterly professional; dedicated to his fellow Riflemen and blessed with a huge character that matched his size. Full of an irreverent sense of humour no one, not even the Commanding Officer, was safe from his endless banter.

"He will be sorely missed by all, particularly the Mortar Platoon and his fellow chosen men in the Corporals' Mess."

(DW)