Warrant Officer 2nd Class Michael Norman Williams and Private Joe John Whittaker killed in Afghanistan

WO2 Michael Williams (left) and Private Joe Whittaker

It is with deep regret that the Ministry of Defence must confirm the deaths of Warrant Officer 2nd Class Michael Williams of 2nd Battalion The Parachute Regiment (2 PARA) and Private Joe Whittaker from 4th Battalion The Parachute Regiment in Afghanistan on Tuesday 24 June 2008.

WO2 Michael Williams was killed during a firefight. He was on a deliberate operation against the Taliban in the Upper Sangin Valley when he was fatally wounded.

Private Joe Whittaker, a reserve soldier who was attached to 2nd Battalion The Parachute Regiment, was killed by a suspected Improvised Explosive Device.

"There's really too much to be able to put into words when it comes to Mark. He was the classic case of short of height, but tall in stature; a man who was larger than life. You were loved Mark by all that knew you, and your memory will forever be carried by us." Quote: Sergeant Major Karl Mitchell

"He was great for morale, always upbeat and optimistic, and he approached all tasks with verve and enthusiasm. The thing that always impressed me about Joe was his desire to be the best soldier he could be." Quote: Private Steven Fisher

Pip pip