Marine killed in Afghanistan

A MARINE from Warrington has died after being gunned down while in action in Afghanistan.
Marine Steven Birdsall, (pictured) from Great Sankey, was a former pupil of Great Sankey High School,
He was shot and wounded on Sunday and died on Monday.
Tributes have been paid to him from officers and colleagues in 40 Commando Group, Combined Force, Sangin.
Lieutenant Colonel Paul James, commanding officer of the elite group, said: “Marine Steven Birdsall was a brilliant young marine whose gallantry, selflessness and determination impressed all who knew him.
“He was strong, brave, full of spirit and full of character.
“A talented footballer, he played for 40 Commando immediately on joining the unit and quickly proved to be a fit motivated marine who inspired others.
“He possessed a sharp mind and a big and generous heart – he loved his family, his friends and his fellow marines; and they adored him in return.
“He was a consummate professional; forever focused, very proud and utterly dependable; yet always cheerful and magnanimous. “He was the perfect marine.
“He sadly died on patrol in Northern Sangin, doing the job he loved, protecting the people.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with his parents, his sister, his family and his friends.
“He will be sadly missed by all in 40 Commando. Marine Steven Birdsall was, and always will be, a Royal Marine Commando.”
Alan Yates, head teacher at Great Sankey High School, said: “Steven was a smashing lad; he was a credit to Great Sankey High School, his family and to himself.
“During his time with us he lived life to the full and was very actively involved in school life. The whole school community is shocked and saddened by the news of the tragic loss of Steven and our heart felt condolences go out to the family and friends that he leaves behind.”
Tributes have poured in from colleagues.
Major Mark Totten Royal Marines, Officer Commanding Bravo Company, 40 Commando Royal Marines, said: “Marine Stevie Birdsall was a jovial, fun loving and exceptionally talented young man who has been taken in his prime.
“His ability on the sports field had ensured considerable success as a footballer prior to joining the Royal Marines, with whom he developed and flourished.
“The determination that led to his sporting success allowed him to complete Initial Commando Training, despite setback through injury and was a permanent fixture of his approach to service life.
“He sharpened his field craft skills with Delta Company in the jungle of Brunei before joining Bravo Company for deployment to Afghanistan.
“He never missed an opportunity to excel whether at work or playing football.
“Arguably his finest hour was leading a scratch team to success in the Cancun Beach Football Festival, a champagne moment that remains unequalled among those who shared it.
“Once deployed, Stevie brought enormous courage, humour and emotional support to his section; he laughed, larked and listened within the patrol base and was a centre of gravity for morale.
“On the ground his contribution was unstinting; sharp and alert, even when carrying the most burdensome equipment.
“He was quick to occupy exposed positions within a patrol and faced the enemy with gallantry.
“Stevie’s last act was to watch over a Royal Engineer team as they laboured in the Afghan sun.
“He was a model Bootneck, true friend and comrade.
“The love of his family was demonstrated daily through the marvellous packages he received and selflessly shared; our thoughts and prayers are with them in this most difficult time.”
Defence Secretary Dr Liam Fox said: “Marine Birdsall has given his life helping to deliver real progress in Afghanistan, which is at the heart of our efforts to protect security in the UK.
“His colleagues speak of a brave, strong and dependable Marine.
“I extend my deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.”