UUP leader Mike Nesbitt said the tragic death of the soldier from Comber was a reminder of the bravery of British troops serving in the fight for freedom.
“It was with great regret and much sadness that I learned of the tragic death of a young woman from Comber who died in the service of her country alongside a colleague from the Royal Marines,” said Mr Nesbitt.
“It is a reminder of the incredible bravery displayed by our armed forces as they risk their lives for our freedom. The debt we owe them is one that can never be repaid.
“On behalf of my party, I would like to extend my deepest and sincerest sympathies to Family, Friends and Colleagues of the fallen.”
Jim Shannon MP for Strangford said he was shocked by the death, and urged local people to keep the soldier’s family in their prayers.
“All I could think of was the poor family not 10 minutes away from my office whose life would never be the same.
“I cannot even begin to imagine what they are going through at this time and I know that our whole community will rally behind them in anyway that they can.
He added: “At this time my heart feels as if it is breaking for those who knew and loved this courageous young lady who gave her all in Service for Queen and Country, and in this time of their deepest grief and I would offer myself to help them in whatever way that I can.”
TUV leader Jim Allister said his party members across the Province will be deeply saddened by the death of the soldier who was “killed while serving her country”.
“Sadly many families in Northern Ireland will be able to empathise to at least some degree as they have experienced what it means to lose a loved one who was serving to protect freedom against the threat of terror,” the North Antrim MLA said.
“Coming so soon after the launch of the British Legion’s annual Poppy Appeal it is a particularly stark reminder of the sacrifice of our Armed Forces.”
Alliance Strangford MLA Kieran McCarthy said: “This is tragic news that will be felt across the local community in Comber.
“She was out in Afghanistan playing a very important role in helping deliver peace to a troubled land.”
Ards Councillor Trevor Cummings said the death would bring heartbreak to a town with a proud services tradition.
“I am deeply shocked and saddened to learn of the death. My immediate thoughts and prayers are with those of her family.
“Comber is a tight knit community which will feel the heartbreak of this tragic loss. Her sacrifice will leave an indelible impression on a town with a proud affiliation to those in the services,” he said.
Strangford UKIP MLA David McNarry said: “She also went to render life preserving assistance to her Army colleagues and Afghan Civilians and even injured enemy combatants. We must never forget the supreme sacrifice being made by our best young people on our behalf... I offer our sincere condolences to the family.”
Comments