Crumbling Spires: Marine Gary Wright

20 October, 2006

Marine Gary Wright

The Ministry of Defence has revealed that the 41st British fatality in Afghanistan was Marine Gary Wright, from Glasgow. We can only pray that his colleague, seriously injured in the attack, makes a full recovery.

From inthenews.co.uk

A British marine who died in southern Afghanistan after a suicide bomber detonated himself next to his vehicle has been named by the Ministry of Defence (MoD).

Marine Gary Wright, 22, from Glasgow died from injuries sustained in the blast, which killed two children and seriously injured another marine in Lashkar Gah, Helmand province.

The passionate Scottish football fan, described as having a "cheerful and optimistic outlook on life" had served in the Commando Royal Marines since October after initially joining the Royal Marines four years ago.

"Gary was a popular and hard-working member of Recce Troop where his positive attitude and soldiering ability set a fine example to those around him. He was a consistently high performer who found he had a natural affinity to the harsh conditions encountered on demanding exercises and operations in a variety of environments," an MoD statement today said.

Marine Wright's Commanding officer Lieutenant Colonel Duncan Dewar RM, described the 22-year-old as an "outstanding" member of the elite Recce Troop unit.

He said Marine Wright was "extremely popular with a good sense of humour, he was very highly thought of by everyone who worked with him".

"He was an excellent marine who died doing the job he loved and will be missed by all his friends in 45 Commando. Our thoughts are very much with his family at this difficult time," Lt Col Dewar added.