Gurkha Killed At Afghan Checkpoint Named

A British soldier killed on an attack on the checkpoint he was guarding in Afghanistan has been named as Rifleman Vijay Rai of the 2nd Battalion, The Royal Gurkha Rifles.

Rifleman Rai, who was born in Nepal, had followed in his father and elder brother's footsteps in entering military service. His middle brother is still serving with the Indian Gurkhas.

"He was very proud to be a Gurkha, and died doing his chosen job. His father and family members are very proud of him," his family said in a statement.

Rifleman Rai was killed by gunshot wounds after the checkpoint in the Nahr-e Saraj region of Helmand province came under attack on Saturday.

Colleagues paid tribute to the 21-year-old, speaking of his desire to follow his family military tradition.

Lieutenant Colonel Fraser Rea, Commanding Officer, 2nd Battalion, The Royal Gurkha Rifles, said: "Rifleman Vijay was tough, loyal, uncomplaining and utterly professional.

"He was deeply committed to his fellow soldiers in Amboor Company and to the local Afghans whose lives he strove to improve during the tour.

"He came from a military background and was immensely proud to have been selected for service in the British Army.