A Royal Marine from Somerset's 40 Commando has been killed in Afghanistan, the Ministry of Defence has said.
An MoD statement released this morning said a Marine and a soldier from 3 Medical Regiment died from injuries sustained whilst on patrol in the Nahr-e Saraj district of Helmand Province.
Spokesman for Task Force Helmand, Major Laurence Roche, said: "I am extremely sorry to announce the deaths of a Royal Marine from 40 Commando and a soldier from 3 Medical Regiment serving with Task Force Helmand.
"This is dreadful news for all of us serving in Afghanistan. Our sincere condolences go to their families, friends and colleagues at this time of grief."
The MoD said next of kin have been informed, and have requested a period of grace before further details are released.
40 Commando Royal Marines is based at Norton Manor Camp, near Taunton, and has been awarded the Freedom of the Borough.
Mayor of Taunton Deane, Cllr Terry Hall, said: "My heart goes out to the family of the Royal Marine and I would like to offer my sincere condolences.
"I am sure that the Taunton Deane community feels equally saddened by this terrible news."
