Cheryl Cole flew out to Afghanistan earlier this week (September 14) to boost the morale of troops and spent time with the forces, even firing a rifle. 

The 'Promise This' hitmaker landed at the RAF base in Bastion yesterday and wore combat clothes for the occasion. She also learned to fire a cannon, took part in exercises and posed for photos with the officers. Speaking to The Mirror newspaper about her experience, Cole said:

"I went into the room and heard an explosion. It was scary. I was terrified. I’m not ashamed to say I screamed and uttered a few expletives. I always had admiration for what the guys do out here, but seeing them here at work is awe inspiring. I’m delighted to be here to recognise all the hard work they do. Every one of them is a hero in my book.”

Lt Col Tim Purbrick added, "She was not afraid to get her shoes dirty. When everyone heard she was coming we did not know what to expect as she’s a huge star."

"But whatever ­preconceptions we had went out of the window as soon as we met her. Her smile is infectious, she was up for doing everything we suggested. She was like one of the lads.”

While in Afghanistan, she filmed a special tribute to the frontline troops as part of a feature that will be shown at the Pride of Britain Awards next month. 

Watch Cole's BRIT Awards interview here: