Marine was planning to quit: mum

8:51am Friday 23rd February 2007

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A LANCASHIRE Marine was killed by a landmine in Afghanistan as he was planning to quit and set up home with his fiancee, it has been revealed.

Jonathan Holland, 23, from 45 Commando, died while on routine patrol in the Sangin Valley in the notoriously dangerous Helmand Province.

He is believed to be the first Lancashire soldier to die during the Afghanistan conflict.

His family said, Jonathan, known as Dutchy by his friends, was giving serious thought to buying a house with Hayley, the girlfriend he adored, and going into business with his younger brother.

His death is believed to be the second tragedy to hit his family in a week after his mother's sister died after falling down stairs at home.

His mother Bernadette described the Chorley-born Royal Marine as "a kind and caring lad who would do anything for anyone" and said the news had devastated the family.

She said: "His death leaves a huge hole in our lives; his memory will live on with us and all who knew him. Our thoughts are with all his friends in 45 Commando who continue to serve in Afghanistan.

"He had a healthy appetite for all that life offered, he had a 'big heart', and a wonderful sense of humour.

"He loved his life in the Royal Marines and we were all so proud of him when he joined."

Jonathan's bosses said he was an exceptional soldier who was popular with this colleagues and his ability to see the funny side of almost anything was legendary within his company He joined the in Royal Marines in 2002, and joined the 45 Commando unit after passing out of Commando Training.

He was the longest serving member of Whiskey Company, a fact of which he was extremely proud.

In 2003 he was deployed on Operation FRESCO, fighting fires during the firemen's strike, before going on peace-keeping duties to Northern Ireland on Operation BANNER later that year.

Following an injury, he became the company clerk for a period, during which he took part in exercises in the USA.

Marine chiefs said he worked tremendously hard to regain full fitness and set his heart on going with his friends and colleagues to Afghanistan on Operation HERRICK, an international security operation, in October 2006.

His bosses said he was tough but compassionate and in Afghanistan would often be found up late at night listening to the cares and concerns of the men with whom he lived so closely.

Prior to joining the Royal Marines Jonathan had been very keen on martial arts, and still retained his love of the sport within the Corps.

He enjoyed reading books on mixed martial arts in his spare time, and would often practice new moves or holds on his mates and brother.

Royal Marine Holland's Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Duncan Dewar RM, said: "Marine Holland epitomised the exacting standards of professionalism that we aspire to within the Royal Marines.

"He set the very best of examples and was a truly loyal friend to many of the Marines within the unit.

"His death has been deeply shocking and we are profoundly saddened by his loss.

"Our thoughts are very much with his family and friends at this extremely difficult time."

The Acting Commander of the UK Task Force, Colonel Ian Huntley said: "While the loss of a valued colleague is a severe blow, our immediate thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends, whose anguish must be immense. Our heartfelt condolences go out to them.

"This loss, though tragic, will not deflect us from our mission, rather it hardens our resolve."

Defence Secretary Des Browne said: "I am very proud of the incredible work that our Armed Forces are doing in Afghanistan to improve the lives of the Afghan people.

"Marine Holland made a vital contribution to this important mission."