If these guys aren't up for some bravery medals then there's something seriously wrong. Of course they deserve them anyway for fighting in the War on Terror's forgotten conflict but this just sticks out as daring do that belongs more in the pages of Boys Own and Commando comics than in today's newspapers. Whether you're a bloodthirsty chickenhawk or a tofu chewing pacifist treehugger you cannot deny the bravery and dedication to their fellow comrades.
The Royal Marine killed in action in Afghanistan on Monday was the subject of a dramatic rescue attempt by his colleagues, the MoD has revealed. L/Cpl Mathew Ford, of 45 Commando Royal Marines, died during an attack on a Taleban fort in the Helmand province.When his colleagues regrouped and found he was missing, they flew back.
Four strapped themselves to two Apache helicopters which landed inside and outside the fort's wall. But they discovered he was already dead.
UK Task Force spokesman, Lt Col Rory Bruce, said the heroic mission was a "leap into the unknown".
"This is believed to be the first time UK forces have ever tried this type of rescue mission," he said.
"It was an extraordinary tale of heroism and bravery of our airmen, soldiers and marines who were all prepared to put themselves back into the line of fire to rescue a fallen comrade.
[...]
The MoD said the Apache helicopter can only carry a pilot and a gunner but there are attachments on the wings for personnel to harness themselves to in emergencies.
The fort had been a surveillance target for more than two months.
A third Apache helicopter and other units provided covering fire, as the rescue bid got under way, the MoD said.
The helicopters landed in the fort and located L/Cpl Ford's body, which they then strapped to the Apache.
A gong for each man involved I hope.
Via BBC NEWS