Remembering the Fallen: on this day, Lance Corporal Kyle Marshall, 2nd Battalion, the Parachute Regiment, was fatally wounded by an IED during an operation in an area in the south of the Nahr-e Saraj district of Helmand province.

He joined the regiment in 2007, and by January of 2010 had been promoted to lance corporal. He was popular, considered a natural leader, and always cheerful, described by one of his superior officers as “destined for stardom”. Being a paratrooper was for him not a job but a way of life; colleagues found him to be inspiring, a true friend, full of mischief but someone who would care and listen if they needed to talk.

Lieutenant Colonel Andrew Harrison said of him: "Lance Corporal Kyle Marshall was one of the most popular young commanders in the Battalion. A charismatic, upbeat Geordie, he was ice-cool under fire and a natural leader always. He mentored, coaxed and taught his soldiers with consummate passion and consistent diligence. He was ever-optimistic, even in the bleakest of circumstances, and could charm all he met. He is irreplaceable. He died as he lived, at the front, guiding his men, surrounded by friends and at the very tip of the Battalion spear. In the very moments before he passed away, he led his team in the discovery of a huge bomb making factory. Thirty-five devices and a plethora of explosive components were subsequently found in the building. This discovery will undoubtedly save numerous colleagues and locals falling prey to the most insidious of insurgent threats. His friends have lost the closest of mates and the most able of colleagues. The Battalion has lost a stunning young leader and a bright hope for the future. Rest in Peace. Utrinque Paratus."

Kyle, from Newcastle, was 23 years old and engaged to be married.