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Afghan deaths reach Falklands level (From Leigh Journal)
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Afghan deaths reach Falklands level
5:37pm Monday 8th February 2010
Britain must hold its resolve in Afghanistan, the Defence Secretary has insisted, as the UK death toll equalled that of the Falklands War.
The milestone was reached as two soldiers from the Royal Scots Borderers, 1st Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland, were killed by an explosion in Sangin in Helmand province on Sunday night. Their families have been informed.
A total of 255 British servicemen and women have now died since operations in Afghanistan began in October 2001.
The pair were not involved in Operation Moshtarak, a major offensive against insurgents in central Helmand due to begin in the coming days.
But Defence Secretary Bob Ainsworth warned on Sunday that British casualties were a "very real risk" during the bid to clear militants from areas surrounding the town of Marjah in Helmand.
On Monday he said: "We have seen an intense, hard and bloody period in Afghanistan but, as we prepare to consolidate our progress with the launch of Operation Moshtarak, it is imperative that we hold our resolve. The national security of the UK and the safety of its citizens depends on that."
Taliban fighters have been given the choice of laying down their weapons or facing "overwhelming force" from thousands of UK, US and Afghan troops.
Chief of the Defence Staff Air Chief Marshal Sir Jock Stirrup said while the Falklands milestone would attract attention, British troops would continue their work regardless. He said: "Sad milestones such as this naturally attract attention in the UK, but in theatre our people continue resolutely and courageously with the task of assisting Afghans to build their own future."
The latest two British casualties, who were serving with the 3 Rifles Battle Group in Sangin, were killed by an improvised explosive device while on a foot patrol.
Task Force Helmand spokesman Lieutenant Colonel David Wakefield said: "Two of our comrades have been cruelly taken from us, but their bravery and fortitude will not be forgotten."
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Two British troops have died in an explosion in Sangin in Helmand Province, Afghanistan
Two British troops have died in an explosion in Sangin in Helmand Province, Afghanistan
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