91热爆

Servicemen killed in Afghanistan return to the UK

  • Published

As the bodies of seven British soldiers and Royal Marines are flown back to the UK, people in Wootton Bassett have yet again come to pay their respects.

Coffins containing L/Cpl David Ramsden, Colour Sgt Martyn Horton, Pte Alex Isaac, Pte Douglas Halliday, Sgt Steven Darbyshire, L/Cpl Michael Taylor and Marine Paul Warren were repatriated at nearby RAF Lyneham on Tuesday afternoon (29 June).

As with all British troops killed in Afghanistan, the coffins will be driven through the town in Wiltshire after landing.

Newsbeat's Jonathan Blake has been asking people in the town for their thoughts on what have now become regular repatriation processions.

Kelly Ormond

Image source, (C) British Broadcasting Corporation

"It is important, I've got family that are in the army so I think it's really important to show respect, even if it is just for a minute to think about how lucky we are, or just to thank the boys for what they are doing which is a really, really hard job.

"A few months ago there was a couple a week and there's seven this evening and it's quite shocking really. The more that come through, the more people turn up.

"It is sombre, I wouldn't say it's morbid, it's just a genuine sign of respect.

"It is sad to see and it probably hits us more here when they come through, but I think enough is enough now."

James Dent, 18

Image source, (C) British Broadcasting Corporation

"I think it is good that the whole community comes together and shows their support for the armed forces. It's really good to see everyone come out onto the streets.

"It is sad but it shows that everyone cares. I haven't been to that many processions but it is a good feeling knowing that you are a part of this community.

"It helps you think about it more, what they're putting on the line. I'm wanting to join up as well, so it's a shock, but it's a reminder of what you sign up for."

Bryn Burns

Image source, (C) British Broadcasting Corporation

"I've come down here for a friend that was killed in the accident on Wednesday, Lance Corporal David Ramsden.

"It's extremely important. He was the first person I met when I got into the regiment myself, he was a friend to everyone and he helped me fit in well. The least I could do was come down and see him land on British shores again.

"He was an excellent soldier, great for morale. He loved army life and was extremely professional of what he did.

"I don't think we should be out there any more. Our boys, they've got enough worries of their own without worrying about someone else's in another country.

"We know our boys are doing an excellent job out there but I think we should get them back home and keep them safe."