The comrades who’d follow him into hell

GLOWING character statements in support of Sergeant Alexander Blackman were presented to the Court of Appeal from comrades – some still serving – who said they would follow him ‘to hell and back’.

‘Al was commanding the front vehicle which was receiving rocket propelled grenades (RPGs) and heavy machine gun fire. Al’s vehicle was hit by an RPG. Only his quick thinking and strong leadership ensured a safe withdrawal, suffering no casualties.’

Craig Capewell, 23 years in the Royal Marines

‘In Iraq, Al’s group was targeted in a heavy ambush. Hundreds of bullets hammered the road and vehicles. Rockets were slamming into vehicles and exploding on buildings behind Al and the other Marines, raining rubble on them. Al managed to move his group out of the killing ground. I would trust Alexander Blackman with my wealth, wife and five children.’

Garnett Harrington, former Marine and Canadian Army officer

‘This is a man who would give you the skin off his back if you should need it. No greater friend could a man ask for.’

Jamie Wright, Royal Marine for 22 years

‘In Iraq, when he was ambushed and his vehicle took direct hits from RPG rounds, he made sure his men came first. The Marines were dispersed, his vehicle on fire, yet he remained lucid in command.’

Kieran Roe, serving Royal Marine warrant officer

‘Following a particularly horrific incident, Al took the time to talk to me, make sure I was OK and told me he was proud of me and how I handled things that day. It was clear he genuinely cared about me.’

‘There was an IED explosion and one casualty. It turned out to be a 17-year-old

Afghan boy. Al and his team decided, at some risk to themselves, to recover the boy, treat his wounds and bring him back. The boy survived.’

Padre Peter Hallam, Royal Navy

‘I began to hate anyone who was not one of our own. Al gave me a firm but fair message: “Don’t tar them all with the same brush.” He was a great role model. If he was to come back to the Royal Marines, I would follow him to hell and back without any questions.’

Thomas Quinn, serving Royal Marine commando

‘Alexander Blackman is a loyal and trustworthy individual who has the highest standards of leadership, integrity and professionalism.’

Christopher Saxby, serving Royal Marine warrant officer