Australian soldier wounded and a military dog killed in Afghanistan

An Australian soldier sustained a minor wound during a partnered operation conducted by Afghan National Security Forces and the Special Operations Task Group on 25 June 2012.

The soldier referred himself to the medical centre upon completion of the operation where it was confirmed he had suffered a minor fragmentation wound.

The soldier was treated at the medical centre and has returned to full duties. He has informed his next of kin.

A military dog was killed during the same operation when he was struck by small-arms fire in an engagement with insurgents.

The dog’s body was returned to Multi-National Base – Tarin Kot and his ashes will be repatriated to Australia in the near future.

The four year old dog was on his second tour to Afghanistan when he was killed.

Commanding Officer SOTG, LTCOL J, said the dog’s death would have a big impact on the Task Group.

“Personnel who work closely with our dogs form extremely close bonds with them so this death will affect them. This dog was a much-loved member of the SOTG and he will be sorely missed.”

LTCOL J said the mission destroyed an insurgent bomb training and manufacturing facility.

“This camp contained an extensive number of weapons and IED making equipment,” he said.

“This operation will prove highly effective in reducing the ability of insurgents to target Afghan National Security and Coalition Forces.”

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Defence Media Operations 02 6127 1999