Two Australian Commandos killed in helicopter crash

Two Australian Special Forces soldiers from 2nd Commando Regiment were killed when an ISAF helicopter crashed in Helmand earlier today, 30th August 2012.

The Australian Special Forces and their partnered Afghan National Security Force unit were participating in a targeted mission at the time of the incident.

Acting Chief of the Defence Force, Air Marshal Mark Binskin said the soldiers were en route to the mission area when their aircraft impacted the ground.

“Early reporting indicates the aircraft was attempting to land in the mission area when the incident occurred,” Air Marshal Binskin said.

The two soldiers were later identified as: Lance Corporal Mervyn McDonald and Private Nathanael Galagher.