Monday, October 31, 2011

US Army Sergeant Christopher Newman

US Army Staff Sergeant Christopher Rod Newman, age 26, was a victim of the Kabul suicide bomber who rammed a car packed with explosives into a NATO armored bus on 29th October 2011.

Staff Sgt. Newman, from Shelby, North Carolina, served with Medical Company A, Tripler Army Medical Center, Hawaii. He deployed to Afghanistan in May this year and was due to return home for two weeks leave next month.

Staff Sgt. Newman leaves his wife Amanda and 5-year-old daughter among other loving relatives and friends.

Scottish construction worker among Kabul dead

Scottish construction worker, David Quinn, from Airdrie, Lanarkshire, was killed on 29th October 2011 in Kabul, when a suicide bomber rammed a car packed with explosives into an armoured NATO bus.

Mr. Quinn was working for Texas-based construction firm Fluor Corporation in the country. He was a former pupil at Caldervale High School in Airdrie and leaves his wife Jane and daughter Sophie.

Other victims of the attack included British construction worker Stephen Brown, who also worked for Fluor Corp., Canadian soldier Master Corporal Byron Greff, four US soldiers, a civilian from Kosovo and five American civilians.

Australian Army Captain Bryce Duffy

Australian Army Captain Bryce Duffy, age 26, was one of three soldiers killed on 29th October 2011 by a rogue Afghan Army soldier at a patrol base in northern Kandahar.

Captain Duffy was born in Sydney and was educated in Brisbane. He joined the Australian Defence Force Academy in January 2003 and completed a Bachelor of Science. He graduated from the Royal Military College in December 2006 and was posted to 1st Field Regiment, Royal Australian Artillery based in Brisbane. He was transferred to the 4th Field Regiment in January 2011 as the Assistant Operations Officer, before his second deployment to Afghanistan in September.

Captain Duffy was a well known and highly-regarded young officer. He was recognised by his commanders for his strength of character, determination and diligence. He leaves his partner, parents and family.

Australian Army Corporal Ashley Birt

Australian Army Corporal Ashley Birt, age 22, was one of three soldiers killed on 29th October 2011 by a rogue Afghan Army soldier at a patrol base in northern Kandahar.

Cpl. Birt joined the Australian Regular Army in June 2007 and served with the Royal Australian Engineers as a Geospatial Technician. He was promoted to Lance Corporal in February 2011 and to Corporal in April 2011.

His colleagues describe him as being a proud and well-liked soldier of the 1 TOPO SVY SQN. He maintained a very high level of physical fitness and played hockey at the highest levels. Due to his natural leadership style, maturity, hard work ethic and dedication to his specialist trade, he was quickly promoted through the ranks.

He leaves his parents Don and Linda and his brother Dale, who issued the following statement: "The death of Ashley has been a tragic shock to our family, his mates and the Gympie community. Ashley was a proud soldier who loved his job. He was a loving son, devoted brother, wonderful uncle and loyal friend who will be dearly missed."

Australian Army Lance Corporal Luke Gavin

Australian Army Lance Corporal Luke Gavin, age 27, was one of three soldiers killed on 29th October 2011 by a rogue Afghan Army soldier at a patrol base in northern Kandahar.

L-Cpl. Gavin joined the in 2004 and, on completion of his basic training was posted as an infantryman to the 2nd Battalion, the Royal Australian Regiment (2RAR), in Townsville in 2005. He was promoted to Lance Corporal in January 2009. He was a highly-qualified soldier, having completed specialist training as a combat first aider, Pashtu linguist and infantry support weapons operator.

L-Cpl. Gaving served in East Timor three times and deployed to Afghanistan in June 2011. He leaves his wife and their three children.

Sunday, October 30, 2011

Two British contractors killed in Kabul suicide bombing

Two British electrical engineers were among those killed on 29th October 2011 in Kabul when a suicide car bomber rammed the armored bus they were travelling in.

The men, aged 34 and 52, were locally named as David Quinn and Stephen Brown. They were working for Texas-based Fluor Corporation which holds various NATO engineering and construction contracts.

Saturday, October 29, 2011

Video: Kabul suicide bomb attack 29 October 2011

13 ISAF members dead in Kabul suicide car bombing

KABUL: Five International Security Assistance Force service members and eight ISAF civilian employees died following a suicide vehicle-born improvised explosive device attack in Kabul on 29th October 2011.

One of the ISAF service members has been named as Canadian Master Corporal Byron Greff.

More information to follow.

Three Australian soldiers killed in shooting incident

Three Australian soldiers were killed and seven wounded by a rogue member of the Afghan Army on 29th October 2011. They were shot during a parade at a patrol base in northern Kandahar Province.

It is believed that two died instantly and the third died later in a military field hospital.

The killer was shot dead.

Afghan Army commander, General Abdul Hameed, issued this statement: "At around 8.30 this morning (Kabul time), an ANA soldier named Darwish who had been serving as an ANA soldier for the past three years opened fire on a group of Australian military officers, killing three of them."

The three soldiers killed were: Captain Bryce Duffy, Cpl. Ashley Birt and L-Cpl. Luke Gavin

Canadian Army Master Corporal Byron Greff

Canadian Army Master Corporal Byron Greff, from the 3rd Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry, was killed in Kabul on 29th October 2011 when the vehicle he was in was rammed by a suicide bomber driving a car packed with explosives.

M-Cpl. Greff was serving as a mentor and trainer advising Afghan National Army trainers who provide recruit training to Afghan soldiers. He is the first Canadian soldier to be killed since Canada ended its combat mission in Afghanistan in July, and launched its current operation to train Afghan troops.

He joined the Canadian Forces in 2001 and had been serving with the Third Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry since 2002. In his free time, he enjoyed hunting and hockey, and in typical paratrooper fashion, he was extremely fit. This was his second deployment to Afghanistan.

Friday, October 28, 2011

US Army Spc. Jesse Snow posthumously awarded Silver Star

US Army Spc. Jesse A. Snow, who was killed in action in Afghanistan last year on 14th November, has been posthumously awarded the Silver Star.

Spc. Snow's family received the award for "his courageous and selfless actions in saving the lives of three fellow brothers in arms and solely denying the enemy the ability to capture any American soldiers," the US Air Force said at the ceremony at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.

Click here to read full report at Dayton Daily News

Funeral for US Army Staff Sgt. Jorge M. Oliveira

Newark: With heavy hearts and solemn salutes, more than 2,500 service members and police watched pallbearers carry Staff Sgt. Jorge M. Oliveira's casket, draped with an American flag, into the Cathedral Basilica today.

Oliveira, 33, of Newark, was killed last week in Afghanistan's Paktika Province when his unit was attacked by insurgents using an improvised explosive device, the Department of Defense said. Oliveira, who friends called George, was also an Essex County sheriff's officer for 11 years.




Click here to read full story at nj.com

US Marine Staff Sergeant Stephen Dunning

Japan-based US Marine Staff Sgt. Stephen J. Dunning was killed on 27th October while attempting to disarm a homemade bomb that had been buried by insurgents in Helmand province.

31-year-old SSgt Dunning, from Milpitas, California, served with the 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, based in Okinawa. He had served in the military for almost 13 years. This was his second combat deployment to Afghanistan.

More information to follow.

US Army Sergeant John Lyons

26-year-old US Army Sgt. John A. Lyons, from Seaside Park, New Jersey was killed in action in Ghazni province on 26th October 2011. He died during an exchange of fire with enemy forces.

Sgt. Lyons served with the 8th Engineer Battalion, 36th Engineer Brigade based at Fort Hood in Texas. He joined the Army in February 2009 as a combat engineer and deployed to Afghanistan in December 2010 on a one year mission.

His awards and decorations include the NATO Medal, three Army Achievement Medals, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with campaign star, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon and Combat Action Badge.

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

US Marine Lance Cpl. Jason Barfield

22-year-old US Marine Lance Corporal Jason N. Barfield, from Ashford, Alabama, died in Helmand province on 24th October 2011 during combat operations in the area.

L-Cpl. Barfield served with 3rd Combat Engineer Battalion, 1st Marine Division, based at Twentynine Palms, California. He joined the Marine Corps in January 2010. This was his first combat deployment to Afghanistan.

His personal service awards include the Purple Heart, Combat Action Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal and the NATO-ISAF Medal.

Army reclaims salary "overpaid" to soldier killed in action

British Army claws back 433 pounds 'overpaid' to dead soldier ... because he was shot dead in Afghanistan 10 days before pay day...

Yes, you read that right...

A soldier had his wages docked - after he gave his life for Queen and country.

Lance Corporal Jordan Bancroft, 25, was shot dead in Afghanistan as he patrolled a meeting between peacekeepers and Afghan elders.

Now his family are appalled after defence officials clawed back 433 pounds which was 'overpaid' for the ten days between his death and pay day.

Jordan's father, Tony, said: 'Words fail me. He didn't ask to be shot.

Read full report at the Daily Mail

US soldier shot dead by police

32-year-old U.S soldier Trent Lloyd Thorp, from Joint Base Lewis-McChord was fatally shot early Sunday 23rd October 2011 during a confrontation with police in his neighborhood.

Thorp joined the Army in May 2008 and was sent to Fort Lee. He deployed to Afghanistan in June 2010 and returned in May this year, according to JBLM.

He arrived at Lewis-McChord on 10th October and was assigned to the 24th Quartermaster Company, 80th Ordnance Battalion, part of the 593rd Sustainment Brigade.

Read full report at The News Tribune

We have included this news item because the soldier in question had served in Afghanistan.

US Army Sergeant Edward Grace

US Army Sergeant Edward Grace, serving with the Massachusetts National Guard in Afghanistan, died on 22nd October 2011 from an unknown medical condition at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.

39-year-old Sgt. Grace had been flown to Walter Reed from Afghanistan, where he was serving with the 182nd Infantry Battalion, providing security for a provincial reconstruction team. He joined the National Guard in 2006 and deployed to Afghanistan in March this year for a 1-year mission.

Lt. Col. James Sahady, public affairs officer with the Massachusetts Army National Guard told the press that Sgt. Grace’s medical condition was not combat-related.

Monday, October 24, 2011

British troops return to base after 6-month Helmand deployment

British soldiers from The Highlanders have started to return to their base in Fallingbostel, Germany, after a six-month tour in Afghanistan. More than 400 soldiers from 4 SCOTS deployed to Helmand Province under the command of 3 Commando Brigade in April this year.

US Marine Lance Cpl. Jordan Bastean

19-year-old US Marine Lance Corporal Jordan S. Bastean died on 23rd October 2011 during combat operations in Helmand province.

L-Cpl. Bastean, from Pekin, Illinois, served with the 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, based at Twentynine Palms, California.

More information to follow.

Polish Army Pfc. Mariusz Deptula

28-year-old Polish Army Private 1st Class Mariusz Deptula was killed in action during a patrol in Ghazni province on 23rd October 2011. The vehicle he was in drove over a buried road mine. He was evacuated to a field hospital at the Polish base but died from his injuries.

Pfc. Deptula served with the 15th GiĹĽycko Mechanized Brigade. This was his first deployment to Afghanistan. He leaves his wife and daughter among other relatives and friends.

Another soldier in the vehicle was seriously wounded, but his life was not in danger.

USAF Airman 1st Class Jerome Miller Jr.

23-year-old USAF Airman 1st Class Jerome D. Miller Jr., from Washington, D.C. died in Parwan province on 13th October 2011 due to a non-combat related incident.

Afc. Miller served with the 459th Security Forces Squadron, based at Andrews Air Force Base.

More information to follow.

US Army Sergeant Paul Rivera

US Army Sergeant Paul A. Rivera was killed in Logar province on 22nd October 2011 when the vehicle he was in rolled over during an attack by enemy forces.

26-year-old Sgt. Rivera, from Round Rock, Texas, served with the 709th Military Police Battalion, 18th Military Police Brigade, based in Hohenfels, Germany. He joined the Army in 2003 after graduating from Stony Point High School. This was his second deployment to Afghanistan.

Sgt. Rivera was posthumously promoted from corporal.

US Ranger Sergeant 1st Class Kristoffer Domeij

An insurgent bomb claimed the life of US Army Sergeant 1st Class Kristoffer B. Domeij, age 29, from Colorado Springs, Colorado, along with two other soldiers on 22nd October 2011 in Kandahar province. Sgt. Domeij was serving with the 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment.

He joined the Army in July 2001 after graduating from Rancho Bernardo High School, and joined the 75th Ranger Regiment in 2002, where he served as a forward observer. This was his 14th combat deployment.

Sgt. Domeij was described as "a Ranger you wanted at your side when the chips were down" by 2nd battalion commander Lt. Col. David Hodne, who went on to say: "He was one of those men who was known by all as much for his humor, enthusiasm, and loyal friendship as he was for his unparalleled skill and bravery under fire."

Sgt. Domeij leaves his wife Sarah, daughters Mikajsa and Aaliyah, his mother Scoti and brother Kyle.

The other soldiers killed were 1st Lieutenant Ashley White and Pfc. Christopher Horns.

US Ranger Pfc. Christopher Horns

An insurgent bomb claimed the life of US Army Private 1st Class Christopher A. Horns, from Colorado Springs, Colorado, along with two other soldiers on 22nd October 2011 in Kandahar province. Pfc. Horns was serving with the 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment.

20-year-old Pfc. Horns joined the Army in July 2010 and was assigned as a rifleman to the 75th Ranger Regiment in March this year. This was his first deployment to Afghanistan.

Lt. Col. David Hodne, commander of the 2nd Battalion, paid this tribute to Pfc. Horns: "Courageous and disciplined, he lost his life while pressing the assault in an area known for insurgent activity. He earned the universal respect of seniors and peers alike. We will honor his service and remember his sacrifice."

Pfc. Horns leaves his parents Larry and Tamara Horns, and his sister Tiffany.

US Army Lieutenant Ashley White

An insurgent bomb claimed the life of US Army officer, 1st Lieutenant Ashley I. White, from Ohio, along with two other soldiers on 22nd October 2011 in Kandahar province.

1Lt. White, age 24, served with the North Carolina National Guard, assigned to 230th Brigade Support Battalion, 30th Heavy Brigade Combat Team. According to various news sources, she was part of an elite Cultural Support Team of female soldiers working alongside Special Operations forces.

A press release from Army Special Operations Command said 1Lt. White "selflessly served and her actions exemplify the highest commitment to duty, honor and country."

She leaves her husband Captain Jason Stumpf, her parents, Robert and Deborah White, brother Josh and twin sister Brittney.

The other soldiers killed were Sgt. 1st Class Kristoffer Domeij and Pfc.Christopher A. Horns, both serving with the 75th Ranger Regiment.

Thursday, October 20, 2011

US Navy Chief Petty Officer Raymond Border

US Navy Chief Petty Officer Raymond J. Border, died on 19th October 2011 during a mission to assess a route in Paktika province. He was serving with a provincial reconstruction team.

31-year-old CPO Border, from Ohio, was based in Gulfport, Mississippi with Navy Mobile Construction Battalion 74. He had been in the Navy for 12 years and had previously served in Iraq and Afghanistan. This was his second deployment to Afghanistan.

His awards include the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (3 times), the Joint Meritorious Unit Award, the National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Service Medal, the Humanitarian Service Medal and the Philippine Presidential Unit Citation, among others.

CPO Border leaves his parents, Craig and Julie Border, children Donovan and Shelva, two siblings and his fiancé, among other relatives and friends.

New Jersey National Guard Staff Sgt. Jorge Oliveira

US Army Staff Sergeant Jorge Miguel Oliveira, was killed in action on 19th October 2011 in Paktika province, Afghanistan, when an insurgent bomb exploded beside his unit.

33-year-old SSgt. Oliveira, from Newark, New Jersey was serving with the New Jersey Army National Guard, assigned to 2nd Battalion, 113th Infantry Regiment, based at Riverdale. This was his third deployment with the New Jersey National Guard. He served in Iraq in 2008.

SSgt. Oliveira was a Law Enforcement Officer with the Essex County Sheriff's Office in New Jersey, where he had served for 11 years. He joined the National Guard in 2003 and served at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba in 2004. The following year he served in response to Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans.

He leaves his mother and father, a brother and sister.

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Repatriation of fallen Gurkha - Rifleman Vijay Rai

The repatriation of Rifleman Vijay Rai from 2nd Battalion The Royal Gurkha Rifles, who was killed in action in Helmand province on 15th October, will take place at RAF Brize Norton, Oxfordshire, on Thursday 27th October 2011.

The plane carrying his body is due to land at 2pm. The cortege will pass the memorial garden at 4.30pm, reaching the John Radcliffe hospital at 5.15pm. All timings are approximate.

We will update this posting if any of the above details change. 

About British repatriations

The sad, but proud, duty of receiving British fallen military personnel killed in action, transferred to RAF Brize Norton from RAF Lyneham on 1st September 2011.

The deceased are flown back on a C-17 of RAF Number 99 Squadron where members of their families are waiting at a new purpose built Repatriation Centre. Senior Military Representatives, including the Station Commander, will also be in attendance.

Le nom du caporal Louaisil gravé sur le monument de Ballots

Le nom de ce marsouin de 24 ans, tombĂ© en Afghanistan le 18 mai 2011, apparait dĂ©sormais sur le monument aux morts de Ballots , dont il Ă©tait originaire, Ă  la suite de ceux de ses frères d’armes tuĂ©s lors de prĂ©cĂ©dents conflits.

« Tu rejoins sur ce monument les hĂ©ros de Ballots qui t’ont prĂ©cĂ©dĂ© sur le chemin de l’honneur, du courage et du sacrifice », a annoncĂ© avec Ă©motion le maire de la commune, M. François Quargnul , en dĂ©voilant le monument.

Les proches du caporal Louaisil, ainsi que le chef de corps de son unitĂ©, le 2e rĂ©giment d’infanterie de marine (2e RIMa) d’Auvours, et ses camarades de la 2e compagnie , Ă©taient prĂ©sents pour honorer sa mĂ©moire.

Cette inscription a été décidée par le conseil municipal de Ballots, qui tenait à rendre hommage à cet enfant du pays, connu et apprécié.

Une proposition de loi a Ă©tĂ© dĂ©posĂ©e en septembre pour rendre systĂ©matique l’inscription du nom des soldats tombĂ©s en opĂ©ration extĂ©rieure sur le monument de leurs communes de naissance et de rĂ©sidence.


Tuesday, October 18, 2011

Contacting us

We've had problems with our old contact form so we've set up a new one. 
To contact us, click this link.

US Army Spc. Michael Elm

25-year-old US Army Specialist Michael D. Elm was killed in action on 14th October 2011 from an enemy bomb blast in Khowst, Afghanistan.

Spc. Elm, from Pheonix, Arizona, served with the 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, based at Fort Knox. He joined the Army in February 2009 and joined his unit at Fort Knox in June. This was his first combat deployment to Afghanistan.

His awards and decorations include the Army Achievement Medal, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terror Medal and the Army Service Ribbon.

He was also posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal and Purple Heart.

Monday, October 17, 2011

Since 2001, an estimated 40,000 people have died

Since 2001, an estimated 40,000 people have died in Afghanistan and the number keeps on rising daily. It is impossible to put an exact figure on the fatalities.

40,000 deaths may sound a lot, and indeed it is, but that number pales into insignificance when compared to other conflicts around the world.

For example, the civil war in Somalia from 1988 to 2004 claimed an estimated 550,000 lives.

The 1989 Liberia civil war claimed an estimated 220,000 lives and the 1991 to 1997 Congo civil war took over 800,000 lives.

The 1991 Gulf War claimed an estimated 85,000 lives; Sierra Leone's civil war from 1991 to 2000 took 200,000 lives, as did the 1991-2009 Russia-Chechnya war.

The Yugoslavian wars between 1992 and 1996 saw an estimated 260,000 fatalities. In Algeria the civil war between 1992 and 1992 claimed 150,000 lives.

Here's some more:

Tajikstan civil war (1992-1996) claimed 50,000 lives.
Burundi civil war (1993-2005) took over 200,000 lives.
Rwanda civil war (1994) took a staggering 900,000 lives.
Ethiopia-Eritrea war (1998-2000) claimed 75,000 lives.
Sudan-Darfur (2003-2009) took an estimated 300,000 lives.

Since 2003, the Iraqi civil war has seen an estimated 60,000 people killed.

However, compare all of the above to the Congo/Zaire conflict that began in 1998. So far, an estimated 3.8 MILLION people have died.

US Army Staff Sgt. Houston Taylor

Hawaii-based US Army Staff Sergeant Houston M. Taylor, from Texas, was killed in action on 13th October 2011 when enemy forces attacked his unit in Kunar province.

25-year-old SSgt. Taylor served with the 2nd Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division. Married to his childhood sweetheart and father to two children, he had been in the Army since 2005. He joined the 2nd Battalion in March 2010 and was assigned as a section leader.

His medals and awards include the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, Army Commendation Medal 2 OLC, Army Achievement Medal 3 OLC, Meritorious Unit Citation, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Iraqi Campaign Medal with 3 Bronze Stars, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Bronze Service Star, Global War on Terrorism Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon with numeral 3, NATO Medal and Combat Infantry Badge.

Gurkha Rifleman Vijay Rai

Rifleman Vijay Rai from 2nd Battalion The Royal Gurkha Rifles was killed in action in Helmand province on 15th October 2011. His unit was protecting a checkpoint in Nahr-e-Saraj district when they were attacked by enemy forces. Rifleman Rai died from gunshot wounds.

Rifleman Rai was born in Bhojpur District, Deaurali, in the East of Nepal in August 1990. After passing the infamous Gurkha Selection, he joined the British Army in December 2008. He was posted to 2 RGR in Brunei when he finished his basic training.

On 14th October, his Company deployed with members of the Afghan Uniformed Police (AUP) and soldiers from the 1 RIFLES to a checkpoint in an area known to have a strong insurgent presence. Next day, Rifleman Rai was in position on the roof of the checkpoint when enemy forces attacked with small arms fire. Rifleman Rai was hit in the opening burst. He was given medical care on the ground and evacuated to Bastion hospital by helicopter but sadly he later died of his wounds.

Rifleman Vijay's family said: "Our family is shocked with the news of Vijay's death in Afghanistan on 15th October 2011. He was the youngest son. He followed his father's and brother's footsteps as his father and elder brother served as Indian Gurkhas and his middle brother is serving with Indian Gurkhas as a Sergeant. He rang his family a day before he was taken away from us.

"He was very proud to be a Gurkha, and died doing his chosen job. His father and family members are very proud of him."

Repatriation of Rifleman Vijay Rai will take place on Thursday 27th October 2011

Sunday, October 16, 2011

Combat Air Medevac in Afghanistan

Real war footage of air medevac teams operating in Afghanistan.


US Army Specialist Jeremiah Sancho

US Army 10th Mountain Division Spc. Jeremiah "Jerry" T. Sancho was killed in action on 13th October 2011 when enemy forces detonated a bomb against his unit in Kandahar province.

23-year-old Spc. Sancho, from Palm Bay, Florida, was serving with the 3rd Squadron, 71st Cavalry Regiment, based at Fort Drum, New York. He deployed to Afghanistan in April this year.

His awards and decorations include the Afghanistan Campaign Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the Overseas Service Ribbon, the NATO Medal and the Combat Action Badge.

His wife, RaiAnne, posted this farewell message to him on her Facebook page: "Jerry I miss you. I love you so much baby. I don’t know what I’m gonna do without you, but I know you’re watching over me. I love you and was proud to be your wife."

Saturday, October 15, 2011

Estonian Army Corporal Agris Hutrof killed in action

Estonian Army Corporal Agris Hutrof was killed in action during a firefight with enemy forces in Helmand province on 15th October 2011.

25-year-old Cpl. Hutrof, who was injured seriously during the battle, died after he was transferred to a field hospital. He joined the army as a conscript in 2008 and then opted to turn professional, and had been serving in Afghanistan since May 2011.

Three other Estonian soldiers were also wounded in the incident.

British Gurkha killed in action

A British soldier serving with the 2nd Battalion, The Royal Gurkha Rifles has been killed in action in Afghanistan.

Lt Col Gordon Mackenzie, spokesman for Task Force Helmand, said: "It is with great sadness that I announce that a soldier from the 2nd Battalion, The Royal Gurkha Rifles was killed during operations with Afghan Police partners to extend security in the Nahr-e Saraj region of Helmand.

"Whilst protecting a checkpoint, his team came under insurgent small arms fire, during which he received a fatal gunshot wound."

The fallen soldier has been named as Rifleman Vijay Rai

US Army Pvt. Danny Chen death subject to criminal investigation

MANHATTAN: The US Army's criminal investigations unit is probing the death of a soldier from Manhattan who was killed in Afghanistan early this month.

Army Pvt. Danny Chen, 19, who grew up in Chinatown and went to school on the Lower East Side, died on Oct. 3 in Kandahar Province, the military said last week.

Chen’s parents reportedly said military personnel informed them that their son had been subjected to harassment and physical abuse by fellow soldiers and may have committed suicide. Reports indicate that Chen died from a gunshot wound to the head.

US Marine Lance Corporal Scott Harper

21-year-old US Marine Lance Corporal Scott D. Harper, from Winston, Georgia, was killed in Helmand province whilst conducting combat operations on 13th October 2011.

Lance Cpl. Harper served with the 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, based at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.

More information to follow.

US Navy SEAL Chief Petty Officer Michael Tatham

33-year-old US Navy SEAL Chief Petty Officer Michael R. Tatham, died in a motorcycle accident in Bali, Indonesia whilst on leave from combat operations in Afghanistan.

CPO Tatham, from University Place, Washington, served with a West Coast-based Naval Special Warfare Unit. A native of Fayetteville, North Carolina, CPO Tatham was a highly decorated Special Forces member with combat experience in Iraq and Afghanistan.

His military awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal with combat “V,” Joint Service Achievement Medal, four Navy-Marine Corps Achievement Medals including one with “V,” two Good Conduct Medals, National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, three Sea Service Deployment Ribbons and NATO Service Medal, along with the expert rifle and expert pistol ribbons.

He is survived by his parents and a younger brother.

US Army Staff Sgt. Nathan Wyrick

34-year-old US Army Staff Sgt. Nathan L. Wyrick, died in Kandahar province, Afghanistan on 10th October 2011. His death is currently under investigation. He was posthumously promoted from Sergeant to Staff Sergeant.

SSgt. Wyrick, from Enumclaw, Washington, was a supply specialist serving with the 1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, based at Fort Drum, New York. He had previously served at Fort Lewis for almost four years prior to his transfer to Fort Drum.

This was his second overseas combat deployment. He served in Iraq from August 2008 to August 2009.

SSgt. Wyrick is survived by his a wife and four children.

US Army Staff Sgt. Robert Cowdrey

39-year-old US Army Staff Sergeant Robert B. Cowdrey, from Atwater, Ohio, was killed in action during combat operations in Kunar province on 13th October 2011. He was a flight medic assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 82nd Combat Aviation Brigade, 82nd Airborne Division, based at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. This was his third deployment to Afghanistan.

SSgt. Cowdrey joined the Army in June 2003. He served in Iraq from July 2004 to July 2005 and served in Afghanistan three times, from January 2007 to February 2008 and from April 2009 to March 2010. He deployed on his third tour in August this year.

According to news reports, he lived in Stanford, North Carolina with his wife Jill and three sons.

SSgt. Cowdrey was decorated multiple times. He held the Bronze Star Medal, three Air Medals, two Army Commendation Medals for valor, three Army Commendation Medals, two Army Achievement Medals, two Army Good Conduct Medals, the National Defense Service medal, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal, the Iraq Campaign Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Humanitarian Service Medal, the Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, the Army Service Ribbon, the Overseas Service Ribbon, the NATO Medal, the Combat Medic Badge, the Combat Action Badge and the Aviator Badge.

US Army Chief Warrant Officer James Wilke

US Army Chief Warrant Officer James B. Wilke, aged 38, from Ione, California, died in Doha, Qatar on 10th October. The cause of his death is under investigation.

CWO Wilke, who joined the Army in 1992, served as a Patriot weapons system technician with the 2nd Battalion, 43rd Air Defense Artillery Regiment, 11th Air Defense Artillery Brigade, 32nd Army Air and Missile Defense Command, based at Fort Bliss in Texas. He was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom Afghanistan.

His awards and decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal and the National Defense Service Medal.

According to news reports, CWO Wilke is survived his wife and mother.

US Cavalry Captain Drew Russell

US Army Captain Drew E. Russell was killed in action on 8th October 2011 when enemy forces fired a rocket-propelled grenade at his unit in Kandahar province.

25-year-old Capt. Russell, from Scotts, Michigan, served with the 1st Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment, based at Fort Carson, Colorado. He joined the Army in 2004 after graduating from Vicksburg High School. He deployed to Afghanistan in June.

He leaves behind his parents, Patti and Jim Russell, brother James and his girlfriend, Sarah Pfeiffer, among other relatives and friends.

Killed in the same attack was Captain Joshua Lawrence, also with the 1st Squadron.

US Army Cavalry officer, Captain Joshua Lawrence

US Army Captain Joshua S. Lawrence was killed in action on 8th October 2011 when enemy forces fired a rocket-propelled grenade at his unit in Kandahar province.

29-year-old Capt. Lawrence, from Nashville, Tennessee, served with the 1st Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment, based at Fort Carson, Colorado. He joined the Army in April 2005 and joined the 1st Squadron in May this year. He deployed to Afghanistan in June.

His decorations and awards include the Bronze Star Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Joint Service Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Korea Defense Service Medal, among others.

Also killed in the same attack was Captain Drew Russell, also with the 1st Squadron.

Thursday, October 13, 2011

Cause of US Army Helicopter crash released

The cause of the August 2011 Chinook helicopter crash that killed 30 American service personnel has been officially announced by US military investigators.

The official investigation report, released on Wednesday 12th October 2011 by US Central Command said: "A previously undetected group of suspected Taliban fighters fired two or three RPGs in rapid succession from the tower of a two-story mud brick building approximately 220 meters south of the aircraft. The first RPG missed the helicopter, but the second RPG struck one of the blades on the aft (rear) rotor assembly and exploded."

The crash killed everyone on board the helicopter including 17 US Navy SEAL members, 5 US Navy Special Operations personnel, 3 USAF personnel, 5 US Army helicopter crew members, 7 Afghan Commandos, and Afghan interpreter and a US military dog.

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

Czech Army Sergeant Adrian Werner

Czech Army Sergeant Adrian Werner, age 32, died on 9th October 2011 at the military hospital in Olomouc, Czech Republic, from a bullet wound he received when enemy forces attacked a Czech military base in Wardak province on 6th July.

Sgt. Werner was given immediate medical treatment then airlifted to a military hospital in Kabul. The next day he was evacuated to the Central Military Hospital in Prague, Czech Republic. on the spot and in a military hospital in Kabul, and one day later he was flown to the Czech Republic. 

In August he was transferred to a specialist ward of the military hospital in Olomouc, where he sadly succumbed to his injuries.

Sunday, October 9, 2011

US Ranger Spc. Ricardo Cerros Jr.

US Army Specialist Ricardo Cerros Jr was killed in action in Logar province on 8th October 2011 during a gun battle with enemy forces. He died from gunshot wounds.

24-year-old Spc. Cerros, from Salinas, California, served with the 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, based at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington. He enlisted in the Army in July 2010 and joined the Rangers in March this year. This was his first deployment to Afghanistan.

Lt. Col. David Hodne, Commander of 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, said about Spc. Cerros: “He was a warrior who lost his life while fighting courageously alongside his fellow Rangers. We will honor his service to our country and never forget his sacrifice. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Cerros family.”

Spc. Cerros leaves his father and stepmother, Ricardo Cerros Sr. and Deborah Cerros, and his mother, Maqueirte Cuevas among other relatives and friends.

US Marine Lance Corporal Benjamin Schmidt

US Marine Lance Cpl. Benjamin W. Schmidt, was killed in action on 6th October 2011 in Helmand province after being shot in the head by enemy forces.

24-year-old L-Cpl Schmidt, from San Antonio, Texas, served with the 2nd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, based at Camp Pendleton, California. This was his second deployment to Afghanistan.

He leaves his father Dr. David Schmidt, mother Becky Whetstone, sister Casey, girlfriend, Taylor Ryan and other loving relatives.

Wednesday, October 5, 2011

Lance Corporal Rafal Nowakowski

Polish Army Lance Corporal Rafal Nowakowski was killed in action on 4th October 2011 in Ghazni province when a bomb exploded beneath the armored vehicle he was in.

30-year-old L-Cpl. Nowakowski served as a rifleman with the 17th Wielkopolska Mechanised Brigade based at Międzyrzec. He had been in the Polish Army since 2003.

Two other soldiers were wounded and their condition has been described as “stable”.

US Army Private Danny Chen

19-year-old Alaska-based Private Danny Chen, from New York, died in Kandahar province, Afghanistan on 3rd October. Pvt. Chen served with the 3rd Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, based at Fort Wainwright.


Click here for an update on the investigation into Pvt. Chen's death

Monday, October 3, 2011

US Navy SEAL Petty Officer 1st Class Caleb Nelson

US Navy Petty Officer 1st Class (SEAL) Caleb A. Nelson, from Omaha, Nebraska, was killed on 1st October 2011 when the patrol vehicle he was in struck a road mine in Zabul province.

26-year-old PO1 Nelson, father of two boys, served with the Naval Special Warfare Unit, based in Virginia. He had graduated from SEAL training in 2006 and had served in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Captain Tim Szymanski, commander of Nelson's unit said: “Caleb Nelson was a cherished teammate, a gifted SEAL operator, and a loving husband and father. His tireless professionalism, inspiring passion for life and his humble and selfless service to our country made him a role model for all who knew him.”

He is survived by his wife, two sons and his parents.

US Army 1st Sgt. Billy Siercks

US Army 10th Mountain Division First Sergeant Billy J. Siercks died in Landstuhl, Germany on 28th September 2011 from injuries he received during a contact with enemy forces in Logar, Afghanistan, the previous day.

32-year-old Sgt. Siercks, from Velda Village, Missouri, served with the 2nd Battalion, 10th Aviation Regiment, 10th Combat Aviation Brigade, based at Fort Drum, New York.

Sgt. Siercks had served in Iraq and Afghanistan prior to this deployment.

He leaves his wife Georganne, two sons age 3 and 7 and his parents along with other relatives.

Sunday, October 2, 2011

US Military fatalities Afghanistan - September 2011

List of U.S Military fatalities for September 2011 in Afghanistan

Date Name Rank Age Unit
SEP



28-Sep Siercks, Billy J. Sgt. 1st 32 10th Mountain
28-Sep Butz, James A. Spc. 21 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment
28-Sep Sprovtsoff, Nicholas A. Staff Sgt. 28 Marine Corps
28-Sep Diaz, Christopher Sergeant 27 Marine Corps
28-Sep Lechowich, Ivan D. 1st Lt. 27 5th Engineer Battalion
28-Sep Gutowski, Steven E. Spc. 24 5th Engineer Battalion
28-Sep Drake, David A. Pfc. 21 5th Engineer Battalion
28-Sep Iannelli, Ryan K. 1st Lt. 27 Marine Air Group
28-Sep Wimpey Cagle, John R. L-Cpl. 19 2nd Marine Division
26-Sep Fant, Garrett A. Spc. 21 4th Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment
25-Sep Zermeno, Andres 1st Lt. 26 10th Mountain
25-Sep Briseno-Alvarez Jr, Francicsco J. Spc. 27 Oklahoma National Guard
24-Sep Holtz, Tyler N. Sergeant 22 75th Ranger Regiment
24-Sep Watson, Franklin N. L-Cpl. 21 Marine Corps
23-Sep Bigai Baez, Rafael E. Sergeant 28 10th Mountain
23-Sep Aparicio, Carlos A. Pfc. 19 10th Mountain
21-Sep Wright, Terry L-Cpl. 21 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment
21-Sep Roelli, Jakob J. Spc. 24 2nd Battalion, 34th Armor Regiment
21-Sep Dyas, Robert E.  Spc. 21 2nd Battalion, 34th Armor Regiment
18-Sep Sayne, Timothy D. Sergeant 31 5th Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment
18-Sep Cook, Ryan J. Spc. 29 3rd Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment
18-Sep Clark, Chazray C. Spc. 24 4th Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment
17-Sep Eppinger Jr., Garrick L. Sergeant 25 395th Ordnance Company
17-Sep Hosey, Michael W. Staff Sgt. 27 3rd Battalion, 1st Special Forces Group
15-Sep Prince, Mycal L. Sergeant 28 Oklahoma National Guard
15-Sep Dutcher, Michael J. Corporal 22 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment
14-Sep Rodriguez Jr, Rodolpho Sergeant 26 3rd Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment
13-Sep Adams, Danial R. Sgt. 1st 35 1st Battalion, 10th Special Forces Group
10-Sep Quintana, Daniel A. Staff Sgt. 30 2nd Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment
10-Sep Rudd, Keith F. Staff Sgt. 36 82nd Airborne Division
09-Sep Wood, Brett E. Pfc. 19 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment
09-Sep Lundy, Brian K. PO 25 US Navy
09-Sep Isenhower, Bret D. Sergeant 26 Oklahoma National Guard
09-Sep Horton, Christopher D. Spc. 26 Oklahoma National Guard
09-Sep Potter Jr., Tony J. Pfc. 20 Oklahoma National Guard
08-Sep Contreras, Koran P. Spc. 21 10th Mountain
08-Sep Jeffries Jr, Douglas J. Pfc. 20 10th Mountain
04-Sep Marquis, Christophe J. Pfc. 40 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment
03-Sep Scott, Christopher J. Spc. 21 101st Airborne Division
02-Sep Stoda, Chester G. Corporal 32 8th Engineer Battalion

United States military fatalities 2011

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