Australian soldier wounded in Afghanistan

One Mentoring Task Force – Four soldier was wounded in an improvised explosive device incident in Uruzgan Province yesterday, 29 May 2012.

An improvised explosive device explosion occurred during an ISAF-supported patrol in the Char Chineh District of Uruzgan Province.

Acting Chief of Joint Operations Rear Admiral Steve Gilmore said an Afghan National Army vehicle, which was carrying munitions, struck the improvised explosive device.

“Initial reports suggest an Australian soldier near the vehicle was knocked to the ground in the explosion,” Rear Admiral Gilmore said.

“He reacted quickly, and moved to the damaged vehicle to rescue a wounded Afghan soldier inside. After saving the Afghan soldier, the Australian was wounded when the vehicle exploded.

“The Australian soldier’s quick-thinking saved another man’s life.

“The Australian was exposed to blast effects from the vehicle explosion

“He and the Afghan soldier were evacuated by air to the Role Two medical facility at Multi National Base Tarin Kot and are assessed to be in a stable condition,” Rear Admiral Gilmore said.

The soldier’s family in Australia has been informed.

Media contact:
Defence Media Operations (02) 6127 1999