Soldier killed in Afghanistan named

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Lance Corporal Benjamin Whatley. 20, from King's Lynn in Norfolk, was killed by enemy fire in the Nad-e-Ali District of central Helmand while leading his men into action.

The Royal Marine is the 136th British serviceman to die in Afghanistan since the start of operations in October 2001.

A statement released on behalf of Lance Corporal Whatley's family said: "Ben was a vibrant, happy person who had an unbridled enthusiasm for life. He was so proud to be a Royal Marine; his death creates an irreplaceable loss for all his family and friends."

His commanding officer in 42 Commando Royal Marines, Lieutenant Colonel Charlie Stickland, said: "Another 'Smiley Boy' from 42 Commando lost whilst doing the job he loved, in an environment in which he excelled and surrounded by his mates.

"His loss has rocked the entire Commando, particularly the tight and combat hardened band of warriors that are 'Lightening' Lima Company.

"Lance Corporal Ben Whatley sat at the heart of a group of comrades bound together through rugged shared experiences, with strength of friendship that many cannot understand.

"He had truly earned his Lance Corporal's stripe and had so much more to give. All he served with knew him as a 'Proper Bootneck' and an uncompromising friend.

"His loss bonds us tighter and makes us all the more determined to maintain the initiative against our foe.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and other loved ones at this tragic, tragic time."