MoD Names Marine Killed By Mine

A Royal Marine killed in Afghanistan was named yesterday as Dale Gostick, 22, from Oxford. He died on Sunday when his vehicle was struck by a mine north of Sangin in Helmand province, the Ministry of defense said.

His death brought to 97 the number of British military personnel who have died in Afghanistan since 2001.

It also raises a question of the vulnerability of Viking armored vehicles to mines placed by the Taliban and suspected of originating from Iran. Four have been destroyed by mines.

Gostick, of 3 Troop Armoured Support Company, Royal Marines, was driving his Viking when it hit the mine. Medics tried to revive him but he was pronounced dead at the scene, the MoD said. The troops had been returning to base after supporting soldiers from the 2nd Battalion of the Parachute Regiment around Musa Qaleh.

Known affectionately by friends as "master chief general of the universe", Gostick was remembered for his sense of humor and relaxed attitude to life. His family paid tribute to him: "His passing has left an irreplaceable hole in so many people's lives."

He had begun his second Afghanistan deployment in December 2007. Major Jez Stemp, officer commanding the Armoured Support Company, said: "He was a courageous and gentle man who would not flinch at a challenge or a dangerous task. [He] epitomized the commando spirit, cheerful in the face of adversity, selfless, and above all, a good friend."