3 Paras Named

[The-Black-Sheep]

Today, the names of the Paras that were killed in Afghanistan were released.

Corporal Kevin Mulligan
Lance Corporal Dale Thomas Hopkins
Private Kyle Adams

All 3 were part of the Special Forces Support Group (SFSG), formed to give extra fire power to the SAS and SBS when they needed it.

It's a double blow this time. It's sad enough when you hear about the death of troops from your country, but it hurts even more when one of them is a good friend of yours.

Kyle was in my form class from 1999 - 2004 aswell as a number of science classes. He was an excellent sportsman, particularly at cricket, and was always a good person to have a few drinks with. It was hard to keep in touch with him and many other old school friends since everyone went their separate ways, but it was always great to see him whenever he was home.

From his commanding officer - "Always ready for the next challenge, he was a real team player, and indeed was a talented sportsman."

I found out Thursday evening, yet didn't believe it at 1st since there was no official statement from the M.O.D. Yet seeing the news Friday morning and also seeing/hearing his name on tv has made this into one of the most surrealistic 36 hours I'll ever experience in my life.

R.I.P Kyle - You were true friend, a true soldier, and a true hero. I'm raising a glass of port for you right now fella. I'll never forget you...none of us will

[H]

:-/

"...one of the most surrealistic 36 hours I'll ever experience in my life."

We'll hope there's no more in this category...


8-)

[BFMF]

I'm sorry to hear for your loss. I kinda know what you're going through....

[C]

Another very sad loss in the 'Stan; something that we'll have to get very used to, particularly as the first few years passed with low casualties, and in the shadow of the Iraq conflict, which was always a bit more politically sensitive and controversial.

It's a double blow this time. It's sad enough when you hear about the death of troops from your country, but it hurts even more when one of them is a good friend of yours.

I found out Thursday evening, yet didn't believe it at 1st since there was no official statement from the M.O.D. Yet seeing the news Friday morning and also seeing/hearing his name on tv has made this into one of the most surrealistic 36 hours I'll ever experience in my life.

Gutting indeed - a recent accident saw the death of one of my compatriots through my training - and when it's the first time it happens it's a very surreal experience.

People are always slating facebook, but I'm very glad I found out about my friends death by people posting condolences on his facebook page, rather than 12 hours later when his face was on the BBC's 6 o'clock news.

RIP Gents.

[homebrewer]

If it helps, take comfort in the fact that these fine gentlemen were engaged in a pursuit for which they were willing to lose their lives to defend the People of their mother country, its principles and its future. Godspeed, gentlemen. Your sacrifice is very much appreciated by this one person in the United States...

[Ang2dogs]

If it helps, take comfort in the fact that these fine gentlemen were engaged in a pursuit for which they were willing to lose their lives to defend the People of their mother country, its principles and its future. Godspeed, gentlemen. Your sacrifice is very much appreciated by this one person in the United States...

ROGER THAT!
May they now rest in peace

[scalper_old]

Sorry for the loss of your friend.

[The-Black-Sheep]

The 3 bodies were flown back today along with Pvt Jason Williams who died a few days after them.

It's good to know Kyle is back home, just not in the way any of us wanted.

homebrewer, your comment has filled me with enormous pride. It's very much appreciated.

Thanks to all who commented. Really means a lot.

Alec

[Alonso]

Very sorry to hear about it. May he rest in peace  :-/

[SubZer0]

I'm so sorry to hear of this loss, Alec. May they all rest in peace