Family's grief over Afghan blast death Royal Marine

A British serviceman killed in an explosion in southern Afghanistan was named today.

Royal Marine Dale Gostick, 22, from Oxford, died when his vehicle was caught in a blast north of Sangin, Helmand Province, the Ministry of Defence said.

His death on Sunday brought the number of British military personnel who have died in Afghanistan since 2001 to 97.

Marine Gostick, of 3 Troop Armoured Support Company, Royal Marines, was driving a Viking armoured vehicle when it hit a suspected mine.

Medics attempted to revive him but he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Another two Royal Marines are still receiving treatment after being injured in the incident at the Sangin crossing of the Helmand River.

The troops were returning to base after operations supporting soldiers from the 2nd Battalion of the Parachute Regiment around Musa Qaleh.

Marine Gostick, known affectionately by his friends as "master chief general of the universe", was remembered for his sense of humour and relaxed attitude to life.

His family paid tribute to a "huge character" who made time for everyone, adding: "His passing has left an irreplaceable hole in so many people's lives."

They said he was "dearly loved and deeply missed" by his girlfriend Beccy.

Marine Gostick joined the Royal Marines in late 2004 and passed the gruelling 32-week training course before becoming a member of Plymouth-based 42 Commando.

Blast victim: Marine Gostick was killed in an explosion in southern Afghanistan on Sunday.

In 2006 he completed a Viking operators course and served in Afghanistan with the Royal Marines' Armoured Support Company as part of 3 Commando Brigade.
He arrived in Afghanistan for his second deployment in December 2007.

Major Jez Stemp, officer commanding the Armoured Support Company, said the unit had lost a "great Marine" who was both extremely popular and hugely experienced.
He went on: "He was a highly professional Marine and a good friend to all who knew him.

"A confident and outgoing Marine, he seemed to thrive on the challenges which life presented him and took great pride in his ability both as a rifleman and as a Viking operator.

"His experience and courage as a Viking operator in Afghanistan was a comfort to those around him, and his advice was often sought by both peers and commanders."
Maj Stemp added: "A physically strong man with a great sense of humour, he was everything you would expect a Marine to be.

"During the extensive operations conducted by the Armoured Support Company, Marine Gostick was always to be found at the heart of any activity, standing shoulder to shoulder with his friends and colleagues, whatever the task asked of them.

Blasted: A Viking all-terrain vehicle like the one Marine Gostock was travelling when the attack took place

"He was a courageous and gentle man who would not flinch at a challenge or a dangerous task.

"He was a selfless and generous member of the company who would offer his strength and broad shoulders to anyone in need.

"Marine Gostick epitomised the Commando spirit - cheerful in the face of adversity, selfless, and above all, a good friend."

Defence Secretary Des Browne said: "I was deeply saddened to hear of the death of Marine Dale Gostick, who was returning to his base after the successful completion of an operation in the Musa Qaleh area.

"I was in Helmand only two days ago and, as ever, I was humbled by the courage and professionalism of our Service personnel - people like Dale who put their lives on the line for their country and comrades.

"My deepest sympathies are extended to his family."