One hundred Plymouth based royal marines are due to return from Afghanistan later.

The marines from 42 commando have been in Helmand Province for the last six months. 

As the unit, which served on the frontline as part of 3 Commando Brigade returns to the UK, the commanding officer has paid tribute to those troops coming home, as well as those who MADE the ultimate sacrifice.

Seven royal marines from 42 commando tragically lost their lives during the deployment.

Commanding officer Leftenant colonel Ewan Murchison has said his thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of Lieutenant Ollie Augustin, Sergeant Barry Weston, Lance Corporal Martin Gill and marines Sam Alexander, Nigel Mead, James Wright and David Fairbrother, who were all killed in action.

He added their deaths were felt deeply across the unit and they will be sorely missed - but despite the tragic losses, the unit continued to focus on providing security for the people of Afghanistan.

Today the families and friends of the one hundred returning royal marines will welcome them back as their plane arrives in the UK.

But those who have not returned will not be forgotten.