An attack by Taliban forces led to the death of Marine Richard J Watson, 23, of 42 Commando Royal Marines, in Afghanistan on 12 December, 2006.

The Ministry of Defence said that he died at Now Zad, in the north of Helmand Province.

His task force was patrolling the north of the district when it came under attack, and Marine Watson was hit by small arms fire and fatally wounded.

His mother said after his death was confirmed: "In or out of his uniform Richard was and remains our hero; a loving son, dedicated brother and devoted boyfriend.

"He brought so much joy and happiness to our home, a home that now feels cold and empty without the warmth and love of a mother's son."

Marine 'Richie' Watson was known to be devoted to both his family and his military service.

His passion for life was clear to all that knew him, according to the MoD. Marine Watson often talked about his love for his family and girlfriend, and was an avid letter writer.

His Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Matt Holmes RM, said: "Marine Watson loved to play the joker, which made him popular with all his colleagues.

"He was always quick to play a prank on others but always first to laugh at a joke at his own expense.

"To lose a colleague like Richie is a heavy blow to all. He will be missed for his friendly approachable manner, his selfless diligent work ethic and above all his irrepressible sense of good fun."

Marine Watson was born in Caterham, Surrey, and joined the Royal Marines in 2005.

He joined 4 Troop K Company directly after training, in April, 2006, and after further training was deployed with the rest of the unit to Helmand Province, Afghanistan.

His Army bosses said that he had already made his mark on operations within his fighting Company as a natural leader and candidate for promotion.

His decision-making displayed "a calm, level-headedness much beyond his years", which quickly identified him early as a candidate for promotion.

And he "radiated confidence" to those in his charge, ensuring any task given to his team was diligently completed, with a reliability that everyone soon came to trust.