1 US soldier killed, 2 wounded in Marja operation

KABUL (Pajhwok): One member of the US special forces was killed and two others were wounded in southern Helmand province on Tuesday, the American military said.

The soldier succumbed to the injuries he had suffered during operations near Marja district, US forces Brigadier General Wilson Shoffner said in a statement.

Col. Michael Lawhorn, spokesman for the Resolute Support mission, said: “We can confirm a US helicopter has landed in Marjah, and is experiencing mechanical problems. It was not shot down.”

US news channels, including NBC and CNN, reported the troops came under heavy mortar and small-arms fire during a counterterrorism operation. A medical helicopter was hit by mortar fire while it was on the ground during the joint American-Afghan mission.

Meanwhile, the Washington Post reported: “The US casualties come as the restive province has seen an uptick in fighting in recent weeks as Taliban have attempted to regain control of key towns such as Sangin, Marja and Lashkargah.”

Brig. Gen. Shoffner said of the casualties: “We are deeply saddened by this loss. Our heartfelt sympathies go out to the families and friends of those involved.” 

pr/mud

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