Commando-led disruption operation leads to at least 6 insurgents killed

HELMAND, AFGHANISTAN

06.06.2011

Story by Staff Sgt. Ryan Whitney 

NATO Special Operations Component Command-Afghanistan

HELMAND, Afghanistan – A Commando-led disruption operation in Baghran district of Helmand province resulted in at least six insurgents killed and multiple weapon caches destroyed June 6.

The Afghan Commando-Coalition Special Operation combined force was met with heavy resistance and effective fire throughout the day. This fire resulted in two members, one Commando and one Special Operator, receiving gunshot wounds during the operation.

Both wounded individuals are stable, and have been safely transported to a medical facility for further treatment.

“It is always hard when those you fight beside are injured,” said a Special Operator on the operation. “Even though two of our men were removed from the fight because of their injuries, the impact we made on the insurgents in the area was far greater.”

The goal of the operation was to disrupt insurgent activity in the Wonay, Manu and Suray villages, which are believed to be a staging ground and safe haven according to Afghan leadership.

To achieve the desired effect, the force engaged enemy combatants with effective fire and multiple air platform attacks.

These included 30 mm gun runs from A-10’s and GBU-38’s, precision guided ordnance, whenever the area was clear of innocent civilians.

The combat resulted in the positive identification of six enemy combatants killed during the fighting.

“I believe this operation achieved its goal,” said an Afghan Commando. “We eliminated many insurgents in the area, as well as destroyed many of their supplies. Those insurgents left should know that they are not safe or wanted here any longer.”

During the operation, no civilians were injured in the fighting, or property damage reported.

• Date Taken: 06.06.2011
• Date Posted: 06.08.2011 01:49
• Story ID: 71730
• Location: HELMAND, AF