Force Member Killed On Operations In Afghanistan

Mentoring And Reconstruction Task Force Member Killed On Operations In Afghanistan

An Australian soldier serving with the Mentoring and Reconstruction Task Force in Afghanistan was killed while on operations north of Tarin Kowt yesterday morning, Saturday, Afghanistan time.

The soldier was killed when an anti-personnel explosive device exploded.

A second Australian soldier was wounded. Three Afghan civilians were also injured in the incident.

The Chief of the Defence Force, Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston, said the incident occurred during an operation against a compound of interest in the Baluchi Valley.

“It appears that in the course of the cordon and search operation – conducted with our Afghan National Army partners - an anti-personnel explosive device has exploded, killing one Australian soldier and wounding another,” Air Chief Marshal Houston said.

Three Afghan civilians also received less serious injuries in the explosion. One of the injured is believed to be an eight-year-old boy.

“All those injured in the incident were provided immediate first aid and promptly evacuated by helicopter to the ISAF medical facility in Tarin Kowt,” Air Chief Marshal Houston said.

Air Chief Marshal Houston expressed his deepest sympathy to the family of the deceased soldier.

“In this time of grief, the Australian Defence Force offers its full support and condolences to the family of this courageous fallen soldier.

“Preparations are now underway to bring him home so his family can lay him to rest.”

Air Chief Marshal Houston said the wounded soldier had undergone surgery and was now in a serious but stable condition.

“Our thoughts are also with his family at this difficult time.

“This terrible incident is a sad reminder of the dangers faced by our soldiers in Afghanistan.”

As operations are still ongoing no further information on this incident can be provided, in order to protect those still in the field.

This is the 11th Australian soldier to be killed on operations in Afghanistan.

ENDS

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