Royal Marine Dale Gostick was killed in Afghanistan on 25 May, 2008, when the vehicle he was driving was struck by a mine.

He was travelling near the Helmand River where his troop, 3rd Troop of the Armoured Support Company, was returning from supplying paratroopers at the Forward Operating Base.

He was known among his fellow marines for his sense of humour and they would often turn to him if they wanted cheering up. He had a long-term girlfriend called Beccy,

Dale Gostick, 22, who was from Oxford, joined the Royal Marines in 2004 and served with 42 Commando Unit in Plymouth. In 2006 he trained to operate Viking all-terrain vehicles and shortly afterwards he was deployed to Afghanistan for the first time.

He was on his second deployment, supplying ground troops in Helmand Province, when he was killed and was considered to be a promising marine.

Major Jez Stemp, Marine Gostick’s commanding officer with the Armoured Support Company, said: "We have lost a great marine. He was a huge part of his troop and the company alike – he was highly professional and a good friend to all who knew him.

"He was a selfless and generous member of the company who would offer his strength and broad shoulders to anyone in need. Marine Gostick epitomised the Commando spirit – cheerful in the face of adversity, selfless, and above all, a good friend.

Lance Corporal Dan Andrew RM said: "Dale was a top bloke, there’s no question about it. If I was ever down or annoyed about something I knew going to Dale would be the thing to do, knowing he would be on my level. Everyone got on with him and everyone will miss him. He was a ‘Bootneck’ through and through. The company has lost a great bloke."

Fellow marine Tommy Aylett said: "Dale was a good friend of mine; he had such a great character always joking and smiling. He was a great listener and if you wanted to be cheered up he was perfect to make you smile."

Marine ‘Bomber’ Harris said: "I worked with Dale for the first two months of the tour. Those months were the easiest of the tour because of his professionalism and his hard work. I will miss Dale hugely and he will be a great loss to the Royal Marines."

His family paid the following tribute to him: "Dale was much loved and respected by his family and all who knew him. Dale had a huge character, making time for all who needed him. His passing has left an irreplaceable hole in so many people’s lives. He is dearly loved and deeply missed by Beccy."