A leading Arbroath figure has questioned the need for troops in Afghanistan, after another marine with a local connection was killed in action.
Arbroath Community Council chairwoman Patricia Millar said “maybe it is time to think about them coming back,” after the death of Marine Paul Warren on Monday.
The 40 Commando member, who also served in Afghanistan with Arbroath-based 45 Commando in 2008 and 2009, was killed in an explosion in Sangin province.
The 23-year-old’s death comes just weeks after he saved the lives of “many” of his colleagues by spotting a potentially devastating improvised bomb while out on patrol.
The heroic marine regularly volunteered to be ‘point man’ during his patrols leading the way in a bid to protect the rest of his unit.
He was just outside his base when the explosion occurred. He was given immediate first aid but died from his injuries.
Paying tribute to Marine Warren, Ms Millar said, “This is another sad death for the marines and for the armed forces, who all do a magnificent job in Afghanistan in trying circumstances.
“My thoughts and prayers are with his family at this very, very sad time.
“It’s very sad to hear that another young man has lost his life and I wonder sometimes when it will end.
“I know they are out there doing their job but maybe it is time to think about them coming back.
“So many young soldiers have died out there.
“We don’t seem to be getting any further forward but, at the same time, they are there to do a job and we must support our men and women.
“His death is really very, very sad.”
Marine Warren, who was from Leyland in Lancashire, was one of three servicemen from 40 Commando to die in three days.ProudPaying tribute, his family called him a “loving son, brother and grandson who made us proud as a family.
“His cheeky smile will be missed by all who knew him.”
Marine Warren was born in Preston and joined the Royal Marines in 2006.
He served with 45 Commando in Afghanistan in 2008/9 and was deployed again in March this year as part of Charlie Company, 40 Commando.
Lieutenant Colonel Paul James, the commanding officer of 40 Commando Group, said he was “an outstanding marine” who had inspired his colleagues.
“He was one of life’s greats and he will be sorely missed by all in 40 Commando,” he said.
“He was without doubt the epitome of his profession.
“Having previously served in Sangin only last year, his experience was invaluable in preparing and, at times, reassuring the men.
“He was a man of presence, a man who inspired others with his professional example and equanimity.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with his parents, his two brothers, his family and his friends.”
Major Ed Moorhouse, the officer commanding Charlie company, added, “At this dark hour, Charlie company remember in their prayers Clifford and Lynn, Paul’s parents, and pray that the light and confidence that he gave us returns to their lives as time heals their tragic loss.”