Lieutenant Oliver Augustin, left, with Marine Sam Alexander

by Jess Banham

A Kent Royal Marine has been killed in a bomb blast in Afghanistan, it was revealed today.

Lieutenant Oliver Augustin, of the 42 Commando Royal Marines, was killed by an IED on Friday.

He had been "disrupting insurgent activity" while on patrol in the Nad-e Ali district in Helmand province.

The 23-year-old, from Eynsford, had only completed his training in December 2010.

Marine Sam Alexander, 28, from Hammersmith in London, also died in the blast.

In a joint statement, Lieutenant Augustin's mum Jane and dad Sean, said: "Ollie was a much loved and cherished son.

"He was a beautiful boy who we were very proud of. He had many friends that he loved and who loved him in return.

"His warmth and humour lit a room and infected all around him. He dealt with people in a thoughtful and compassionate way.

"His independence and sense of adventure meant that he embraced life and his chosen path."

Lt Augustin's sister Sarah also added: "Oli, you were a one in a million. You were brave, you were funny and I couldn't have wished for a better brother."

Major Steven McCulley Royal Marines, Officer Commanding Juliet Company, 42 Commando Royal Marines, said: "Lieutenant Ollie Augustin was the epitome of a Royal Marines Officer.

"I was immediately impressed by the way in which no task was too difficult or onerous for him.

"Utterly reliable, he clearly relished leading Marines and his lads loved him. It is truly tragic that his life has been cut short and I will always remember him."

Did you know Lt Augustin? Post your tribute to him in the comment box below or e-mailmultimediadesk@thekmgroup.co.uk.