In pictures: 40 Commando medals ceremony
- Published
A medals ceremony was held at 40 Commando's base at Norton Manor Camp on Thursday
Proceedings began with the Royal Marines band who marched on to a large pitch within the grounds of the camp.
About 6,000 friends and family of the Royal Marines were invited to see the special ceremony.
During the ceremony prayers were said to remember the 18 Royal Marines who have died since 2001, when the conflict began.
Former Royal Marines also attended the event, which saw about 700 service personnel being handed their campaign medals for Operation Herrick 17.
The Duke of Edinburgh, who has been the captain of the Royal Marines since the 1950s, attended the ceremony wearing his fatigues to honour the unit.
Although previous deployments have seen armed combat against insurgents, the aim of the final tour was to hand over responsibilities to the Afghan national forces.
Troops had to serve at least 30 days continuously to qualify for the campaign medal.
The Duke of Edinburgh left by helicopter after waving goodbye to the crowds at the camp.
- Published16 May 2013
- Published16 May 2013