The partner of a Marine shot dead in a fire-fight has paid tribute to a serviceman who "lived to be a hero and died a hero".
Lance Corporal Michael Taylor, 30, was the third of four marines from 40 Commando fatally injured in as many days in the Sangin district of Helmand province.
His partner Sonia Fleming said: "Michael you were my soul mate, you were the best loving partner and dad anyone could have asked for.
"You lived to be a hero and died a hero. We are all extremely proud of you and always will be. Your legacy will live on through your three wonderful boys who will inspire to be just like you."
Lance Corporal Taylor, from Rhyl, north Wales, was named just hours after a fellow marine was killed in an exchange of fire with insurgent forces.
Their deaths follow those of Marines Paul Warren and Richard Hollington, who became the 300th British serviceman to die since the conflict began.
He lost his fight for life on Sunday - eight days after he was critically wounded in a blast.
Lance Corporal Taylor leaves behind his three sons Ethan, Wesley and Charlton.
Ethan, 13, said: "He was a great dad and he did everything for us. He was always active and took us to football games, he was one in a million and I love him. Rest in peace dad. I will be thinking of you all the time, missing you already."
Wesley, 11, said: "He was the best dad I could have ever wished for and I can never replace him. He did our family proud and deserved everything he achieved in his life."
