Remembering the Fallen: on this day in 2007, Marine Thomas Curry, 42 Commando, was killed in Afghanistan when he came under enemy fire while in the process of clearing an enemy compound.

He had joined the Air Training Corps at the age of fourteen - while with them he went on a Marine Assault Course, after which his heart was set on becoming a Marine. He had joined the Royal Marines in May of 2005, after having previously being turned down – he went on a strict fitness regime and succeeded on his next attempt. During his initial commando training he was awarded the Commando Medal, having been voted by his peers as the man whose character best reflected the Commando qualities of unselfishness, leadership, determination, and cheerfulness in the face of adversity.

Lieutenant Colonel Matt Holmes said: “The tragic loss of Marine Curry is felt deeply by all, a reflection of what he brought to life and all those who knew him. Tom died displaying the qualities so typical of him, that had rapidly earned him the respect of his colleagues. He was at the front, courageously closing with the enemy, with no thought for his own safety, just that of his colleagues who were close by. He was a glowing example of what a Royal Marine represents: courageous, robust and highly professional. That he carried these qualities as a young man into the dangers of battle speaks volumes, and we are all immensely proud of him. Tom was also a self-effacing, utterly unselfish and cheerful individual, never slow to have a laugh at his own expense. His country has lost a brave, selfless servant who contributed much in his short time. In the close-knit community that is his Company and Commando unit, we feel his loss deeply.”

Thomas, from London, had just turned 21 years old and was engaged to be married.