Remembering the Fallen: on this day in 2010, Marine Anthony Dean Hotine, Alpha Company, 40 Commando Royal Marines, was killed in Afghanistan. He died in an explosion during a joint reassurance patrol with the Afghan National Army in the area around Patrol Base Jamil, in the Sangin district of Helmand province.

Marine Hotine had joined the Royal Marines in 2007, gained HGV driver qualification, and while drafted to Yankee Company, 45 Commando Royal Marines in 2008, he deployed on his first tour to Afghanistan, specialising as a Signaller. In 2009 he joined Command Company, 40 Commando Royal Marines and began Mission Specific Training for his second deployment to Afghanistan. He is remembered by comrades as mature, courageous, and kind-hearted with an infectious smile.

Lieutenant Colonel Paul James said: “Marine Anthony Hotine was a brilliant young man who was at the height of his profession: bright, selfless, dedicated and keen-spirited, he was an outstanding Marine. Having previously served in Sangin a little over a year ago, he wanted to return next year for his third deployment - he was one of the most loyally committed men I have ever met. An ambitious character who always had a plan, he strove for greatness, both in his life and in his work, and invariably achieved it. He had an infectious wit, a sharp mind and a big and generous heart. He sadly died on patrol in southern Sangin doing the job he loved, alongside the Marines he so passionately cared for and with the friends who so loved him in return. He will be sadly missed by all in 40 Commando. “

Anthony, from Warminster, was 21 years old.