Corporal Damian Mulvihill was a Royal Marine killed by an explosion while on patrol in southern Afghanistan on 20 February, 2008.

Cpl Mulvihill, who served with the 40 Commando unit, died during a UK-Afghan operation to deter Taliban intimidation of local people in Helmand Province.

He was leading his section when an "improvised explosive device" was detonated, killing him instantly, the Ministry of Defence said.

He left behind a fiancée, Lisa, and many friends in the forces and back home in Plymouth.

Damian Mulvihill, known as ‘Dee’, was born on 5 June, 1975. He joined the Marines in 1998 at the age of 23. He overcame a bout of septicaemia to complete his commando training and graduated to join the 42 Commando unit.

He served in Sierra Leone and Northern Ireland and was promoted to Lance Corporal in 2002. The following year he undertook specialist training and rose to the rank of Corporal.

The 40 Commando Royal Marines were halfway through a six-month deployment to Afghanistan, assisting the country’s Army fight Taliban resistance, when Cpl Mulvihill was killed. He was the 88th British service person to die in Afghanistan since operations began in 2001.

Described as a ‘Gentle Giant’, Cpl Mulvihill was a man of impressive stature who competed at boxing, rugby and water polo. But he was also known for his sense of humour, caring nature and patient listening.

His commanding officer, Lieutenant Colonel Stuart Birrell, said: "Corporal Mulvihill played a full and distinguished part in all operations conducted by his company, leading his section of men fearlessly on countless patrols and engagements.

"He was a larger-than-life individual, with a personality to match, and his fellow Marines took great comfort from his mere presence. As a friend he was loyal and trusted, as a comrade he was admired and emulated; a man of considerable ability, he will be sadly missed. Corporal Mulvihill has been cruelly taken from us in the prime of life but he shall not be forgotten."

Captain Ian Preece, of the Princess of Wales Royal Regiment, spoke of Cpl Mulvihill’s "casual bravery" in dangerous situations and "determination and professionalism" that made him an inspiration to the other men.

"He will be remembered as an excellent soldier who always upheld the finest traditions of the Royal Marines," he added.

Captain Mark Elliott, adjutant to 40 Commando Royal Marines, said: "Dee was a unique individual who brought inspiration to all that knew him. He was admired by his peers and respected by his superiors, an outstanding leader of men. His never-ceasing smile and bear-like handshake will always be remembered, as will his passion on the rugby pitch."

Royal Marines colleague Corporal Malcolm Bell remembered "Big Dee, the gentle giant", saying: "Even though his time-keeping was horrendous, with his calm, laid back character, Dee always managed to get things sorted, big or small. He was never angry or down, a man who was always tranquil with himself and everyone around him."

Damian Mulvihill’s family and fiancée released the following statement: "He was so loved by the whole family, he never had a bad word to say about anyone and always looked for the good in people. He was a son, a brother and uncle in a million, and a soul-mate to Lisa, and we will all miss him forever."