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Dead UK soldier is named by MoD Dead UK soldier is named by MoD
(11 minutes later)
A soldier killed in Afghanistan has been named as Rifleman Philip Allen, of 2nd Battalion The Rifles, by the Ministry of Defence. A soldier killed in Afghanistan has been named as Rifleman Philip Allen, aged 20, of 2nd Battalion The Rifles, by the Ministry of Defence.
At the time of his death Rifleman Allen was serving with A Company, 4th Battalion The Rifles, within the 3 Rifles Battle Group. At the time of his death Rifleman Allen, born in Dorset, was serving with A Company, 4th Battalion The Rifles, within the 3 Rifles Battle Group.
He was killed following the detonation of an Improvised Explosive Device in central Helmand Province on Saturday.He was killed following the detonation of an Improvised Explosive Device in central Helmand Province on Saturday.
His platoon was conducting a patrol to provide security for local Afghans.His platoon was conducting a patrol to provide security for local Afghans.
He attended school in Dorchester and joined the Army in the spring of this year.
His mother, Karen Charman-Allen, said: "I would like to thank all of the soldiers who have served with and knew Phil.
"He was proud to have been a soldier in 2 Rifles and to have served on tour with them in Afghanistan."
He is sorely, sorely missed but we know that the loss is nothing compared to his family from whom he has been so tragically taken Lieutenant Colonel Rob Thomson, Commanding Officer 2 Rifles
Lieutenant Colonel Nick Kitson, Commanding Officer 3 Rifles, said: "Rifleman Philip Allen had been with the Battle Group for only a few short weeks but had already made a lasting impression.
"His youthful exuberance made him immediately likeable to those who he worked with and his ability made him a valued member of a tight knit team.
"A loyal friend, a committed Rifleman and a strong and capable soldier all made him a shining prospect for the future."
Lieutenant Colonel Rob Thomson, Commanding Officer 2 Rifles, said: "He is sorely, sorely missed but we know that the loss is nothing compared to his family from whom he has been so tragically taken.
"They are front and centre of our thoughts and prayers."
Secretary of State for Defence, Bob Ainsworth MP, said: "I was very saddened to learn of the death of Rifleman Philip Allen, a young soldier who had achieved so much and impressed so many people during his brief time in the Army.
"His death cuts short what his commanders tell me would have been a successful career and very bright future in the Armed Forces.
"My thoughts and sympathies are with Rifleman Allen's family, friends and colleagues."