Insurgents attack medical evacuation helicopter

KABUL, AFGHANISTAN

05.14.2011

Courtesy Story

ISAF Joint Command

KABUL, Afghanistan – A medical evacuation helicopter, marked with the universally recognized Red Cross symbol, came under attack by insurgents yesterday while medical providers attempted to recover a wounded service member in Sangin District, Helmand province.

Insurgents opened fire on the evacuation helicopter as it approached the designated landing area near where the service member had been injured by an improvised explosive device.

A combined Afghan and coalition dismounted patrol conducting clearing operations struck an IED resulting in one coalition soldier wounded. The combined force moved to a nearby area suitable for a helicopter landing, and called for medical evacuation.

"Attacking a medical evacuation helicopter is un-Islamic, inhumane, and a further demonstration of insurgent hypocrisy," said U.S. Marine Corps Col. Scott Alley, ISAF Joint Command Combined Joint Operations Center director.

• Date Taken: 05.14.2011
• Date Posted: 05.14.2011 06:31
• Story ID: 70368
• Location: KABUL, AF