UK

Royal Marine Taliban attack inquest held

An inquest is taking place in Dorchester into the death of James Robert Wright.

The 22-year-old, who served with Plymouth-based 42 Commando, was killed on 5th August when his patrol came under fire from insurgents in Helmand Province.

The father-to-be died in hospital after a grenade was thrown into his patrol's checkpoint in the Nad-e Ali district.

Marine Wright's nickname was "Big Reach", because he once befriended a gangster on the streets of New York who used that name.

Major Steve McCulley, who was Marine Wright's company commander before he was injured in Afghanistan, spoke of his character and enthusiasm.

"James Wright was an outstanding Marine," Major McCulley said.

"He passed out of training just over a year ago and joined Juliet Company, 42 Commander, and I was immediately impressed by his enthusiasm and love of the corps… he was an enthusiastic guy and an incredible Marine.”