ISAF mourns loss of 38 killed in helicopter crash

KABUL, AFGHANISTAN

08.06.2011

Courtesy Story

ISAF Joint Command

KABUL, Afghanistan – Thirty International Security Assistance Force service members, one civilian interpreter, and seven Afghan commandos were killed when a coalition CH-47 Chinook crashed in Afghanistan early Aug. 6.

All of the ISAF service members on board were from the U.S.

The incident represents the highest number of U.S. forces killed during a single event in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

“No words describe the sorrow we feel in the wake of this tragic loss,” said Gen. John R. Allen, commander, International Security Assistance Force. “All of those killed in this operation were true heroes who had already given so much in the defense of freedom. Their sacrifice will not be forgotten. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families who are now waiting for their loved ones to return home. We will do everything in our power to support them in this time of need.”

“We also mourn the loss of our heroic Afghan partners who fight with us shoulder to shoulder, every day,” added Allen.

An investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the crash. Additional details will be provided as they become available.

• Date Taken: 08.06.2011
• Date Posted: 08.06.2011 15:53
• Story ID: 74965
• Location: KABUL, AF