Two soldiers die in Afghanistan

Rifleman Murphy died trying to save his comrade

Two soldiers from the West Midlands have been named among six servicemen who died in Afghanistan on Friday.

Cpl Jonathan Horne and Rifleman Joseph Murphy were killed fighting the Taliban in Helmand Province.

Rifleman Murphy, 18, of Castle Bromwich, died trying to rescue his comrade Rifleman Daniel Simpson, who also died.

Father-of-two Cpl Horne, 27, of Walsall, had also served in Iraq and in Kosovo.

He is survived by his wife Rachel, his children Frankie and Jessica, his parents and three brothers.

'Most caring'

Rachel Horne said: "A sad farewell to my wonderful husband who was a devoted father, husband and a loving son.

"We will miss you more than words could ever describe.

Cpl Jonathan Horne was a "rising star"

"You were the most caring, thoughtful, funniest, loving and generous person I have ever known.

"You were so brave and we are all so proud of what you have done. We will always love and miss you. You will forever be in our thoughts."

Lieutenant Colonel Rob Thomson MBE, Commanding Officer 2 RIFLES Battle Group, said Cpl Horne was at the top of "a generation of rising stars".

Major Alistair Field, Officer Commanding C Company 2 RIFLES, said he was "highly competent, professional and caring, but tough with a wicked Brummie sense of humour".

He added: "My lasting memory is seeing him in action helping the wounded, calmly controlling the situation until tragically his young life was ended by the evil insurgents."

'Passionate Villa fan'

Rifleman Murphy's parents Brian and Jill said he died "doing the job he loved whilst serving his country".

Capt Edward Poynter, Operations Officer C Company 2 RIFLES, said he was "exceptional young Rifleman".

He added: "He was fiercely proud of his section and his platoon, a passionate Villa fan and the joker of the company.

"Rifleman Murphy was carrying his close friend and battle-buddy, Rifleman Simpson, to safety after he had been wounded in the first explosion when a second device initiated and killed them both instantly.

"Rifleman Murphy gave his life while trying to save that of his fellow Rifleman. The thoughts and prayers of all in C Company are with him and his family. Rifleman Murphy, We will never forget your smile."