Commandos cheered by father's record

Soldiers have hailed a rock song penned by the father of a South Staffordshire serviceman as a morale booster.

David Allen, of Perton, near Wolverhampton, was so proud when his son James joined the elite unit of the Royal Marines, 40 Commando, that he wrote a song called Glory to the Boys.

The track has now been recorded by Midland band Dementia. It has been played on armed forces radio station BFBS and is set for release next weekend, with money raised going to Royal Marine charities.

The second-in-command of 40 Commando has spoken about how much it means to his men to know that the public supports them as they head for Sangin, Afghanistan, for a gruelling six-month tour.

Major Andy Walker said his men would be given copies of Glory to the Boys before they deploy this summer. "The lads are going to love this one," he said.

"This is a cracking record which deserves to do really well. It's an added bonus that it's supporting the Royal Marines for 40 Commando and our charities.

"This is a perfect example of how support from the public to the Royal Marines increases their morale and helps to keep it high, regardless of the challenges they will face in Afghanistan."

Major Walker added: "Knowing that the public will be thinking about us and supporting us while we're in Afghanistan this summer really matters to the Commandos."

40 Commando was last deployed to Afghanistan as part of Operation Herrick 7 in 2007 to 2008, during which three were killed.

Trees of remembrance have been planted in memory of Marine David Marsh, Cpl Damian Mulvihill and Lt John Thornton at the commandos' memorial garden at their camp near Taunton, Somerset.

Among those returning to Helmand with the unit is Sgt John Thompson, who in 2007 was awarded the Conspicuous Gallantry Cross, which is second only to the Victoria Cross.

Sgt Thompson was recognised for more than 30 acts of outstanding bravery and leadership while under Taliban fire.