Wales Afghanistan News

More than 300 soldiers from 1st Battalion Welsh Guards, who have just returned from Afghanistan, will attend a memorial service on Thursday to remember four soldiers who were killed during the latest tour.

Lance Corporal Lee Davies, Guardsman Craig Roderick, Guardsman Apete Tuisovurua and Warrant Officer Class 2 Leonard Thomas were all killed in action during Operation Herrick 16.

After attending the service, the guards will parade through Cardiff from Cardiff Castle, through St Mary Street, around Mill Lane, through The Hayes and then back to the castle via Castle Street and Cardiff Arms Park.

Cardiff Council Leader, Councillor Heather Joyce, who will receive the official salute from the battalion, said: "The homecoming parade provides the opportunity for Cardiff residents and visitors to welcome the brave men and women from 1st Battalion Welsh Guards back to our capital city.

"The regiment held their first homecoming in 2010 in the city and I am delighted they will return once more to parade across the capital. I am very proud to be receiving the salute from the regiment and I would encourage people to come along to honour our soldiers."

• UK
• Afghanistan
• Welsh Guards

Two Welsh soldiers have been honoured at a ceremony in London for their efforts whilst serving in Afghanistan. Rifleman Matthew Wilson from Aberystwyth has been presented with the Military Cross for protecting a wounded comrade.

While Corporal Matthew Perry from Newport has been given the Queens Commendation. David Wood has the full report.

• UK
• Afghanistan

A football match held yesterday in honour of Captain Stephen Healey, who was killed while serving in Afghanistan in May, raised at least £1,950 for charity. The money is being donated to Stephen's charity of choice, Blind Veterans UK, who he did a lot of work with in years gone by.

Future matches will be held every year on the anniversary of Stephen's death, on the May bank holiday.

• World
• Afghanistan
• Cardiff

The body of Guardsman Jamie Shadrake, of the Reconnaissance Platoon, 1st Battalion Grenadier Guards, has been repatriated this afternoon. He was killed in Afghanistan on Friday. The 20-year-old was brought up near Cardiff before moving with his family to Wrexham.

• UK
• Afghanistan