Blake Hall
A service member from the United States of America was killed on Tuesday by a roadside bomb — according to a statement from U.S. military authorities. The tragedy occurred in Afghanistan’s Helmand province.
Another American troop, along with six Afghans, were injured in the attack as well.
This from Military.com:
The name of the service member who died wasn’t released, pending notification of family members, the release states. The individual was killed while conducting an operation with Afghan forces when their patrol triggered an improvised explosive device, or IED, it states.
“On behalf of all U.S. Forces-Afghanistan, as well as Resolute Support, our deepest sympathies go out to the families and friends of those involved,” Gen. John W. Nicholson, commander of USFOR-A and Resolute Support, said in the statement. “We are deeply saddened by this loss, but remain committed to helping our Afghan partners provide a brighter future for themselves and their children.”
The troops are in the region to train and advise the Afghan forces in their fight against the Taliban.
UPDATE: The deceased service member, a United States Army soldier, has been identified by military officials …
This from U.S. Central Command:
Gen. Joseph L. Votel, U.S. Central Command commander, released the following statement today:
“Our CENTCOM family is deeply affected by the death of Army Staff Sgt. Matthew V. Thompson in Helmand Province, Afghanistan, from injuries sustained when an improvised explosive device detonated during dismounted operations.”
“On behalf of the men and women of U.S. Central Command, I extend our sincere condolences to the family, friends and Sgt. Thompson’s fellow service members, as well as gratitude for his selfless and honorable service to our Nation.”
Please stay tuned to the blog for more on this developing story.