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KABUL - Four British soldiers in Afghanistan strapped themselves to the wings of fast-moving Apache attack helicopters in a daring attempt to rescue a comrade shot by the Taleban.
"This is believed to be the first time UK forces have ever tried this type of rescue mission ... It was an extraordinary tale of heroism and bravery ... to rescue a fallen comrade," said task force spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Rory Bruce.
Royal Marine Lance Corporal Matthew Ford, 30, was shot on Tuesday when more than 200 British troops attacked the Taleban's Jugroom Fort in Helmand.
When Ford was discovered to be missing, the marines decided the helicopters provided the best opportunity to rescue him.
They can carry only a pilot and a gunner, although there are attachments on the wings that soldiers can harness themselves to in emergencies.
Two troops each were strapped to the wings of two Apache helicopters, with a third Apache and several ground units providing covering fire. After landing at the site of the battle, the four soldiers found Ford dead, but were able to recover his body.
- AFP
