Afghanistan Fatality
- November 28th, 2008
- Posted by EUEditor
The Australian Defence Force has released the name of the Army officer killed in Afghanistan on Thursday (27.11.08).
Lieutenant Michael Fussell, 25, unmarried, died after the detonation of an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) during a dismounted patrol by commandos from the Special Operations Task group in Oruzgan Provice. Two others were slightly wounded. His death brings to seven the number of Australians killed during the present Afghanistan commitment.
The Australian Defence Minister, Joel Fitzgibbon, has reiterated demands for stepped up contributions of troops from European countries in the North Atlantic Alliance, to the NATO-led military effort in Afghanistan. (See EUAustralia Online, 24.3.08, Rudd Takes NATO – Afghanistan Concerns to the Top; 11, 18.2.08, More Say on Afghanistan).
Click for ADF statement.
PERSONAL DETAILS OF SOLDIER KILLED IN AFGHANISTAN 28.11.08
Lieutenant was a member of the Sydney-based 4th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (Commando) and was conducting a dismounted patrol when he and his team were struck by the IED.
Lieutenant Fussell was 25 years old, was not married and had no children. His immediate family is currently receiving support from Army representatives.
Two other Special Operations Task Group personnel were slightly wounded in the explosion and have now returned to operational duties. Defence will not release the names of the wounded personnel.
Chief of Army, Lieutenant General Ken Gillespie, extended his deepest condolences to the family and friends of Lieutenant Fussell.
“Our hearts go out to Michael’s family during this very sad time. I hope the knowledge that they are in the thoughts and prayers of so many Australians will be a source of comfort for them.
“Michael died while serving his nation and his sacrifice will never be forgotten. This loss is felt heavily by the wider Defence Community, and particularly by members of the Australian Army,†Lieutenant General Gillespie said
28/11/2008
Reference:
Australian Defence Department, Canberra, Media Release, 28.11.08
Picture: Michael Fussell