Three Afghan Commandos killed in Paktya Improvised Explosive Device strike

KABUL, AFGHANISTAN

03.28.2009

Courtesy Story

U.S. Forces Afghanistan

KABUL, Afghanistan – Three Afghan commandos of the Afghan national army's 203rd Corps were killed today when their vehicle struck an improvised explosive device in the Gardez District, Paktya province.

The elite Afghan soldiers struck an IED while conducting a combat reconnaissance patrol in support of ongoing operations to rout militants from the area, in order to bring freedom and security to the Afghan people. Four other ANA commandos were injured in the attack, and were immediately evacuated to a coalition medical facility.

The commandos detained six individuals with suspected involvement in the attack. No coalition force or noncombatant casualties were reported.

"We proudly fought alongside these elite soldiers, and now we will mourn deeply for them. These men fought and died for an ideology that encompassed liberty and equality for all, and, in their honor, we will continue to support the commandos as they fight for the freedom of the Afghan people," said a coalition spokesman.

• Date Taken: 03.28.2009
• Date Posted: 03.28.2009 12:48
• Story ID: 31744
• Location: KABUL, AF