Update on the condition of Australian soldiers wounded in action

The seven soldiers wounded in Saturday’s shooting at Forward Operating Base Pacemaker in northern Kandahar province are currently being prepared for aero-medical transfer to Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany in the coming days.

Medical specialists working at the Bagram Medical Facility have reassessed the status of the soldier with the most significant wounds. Overnight his condition has improved from life-threatening.

Chief of Joint Operations Lieutenant General Ash Power said the improvement in the soldier’s medical status was encouraging and testament to the skills and experience of the medical staff in ISAF’s health care facilities.

“I’m very pleased that his condition has improved but he, and several of his mates, remain in a serious condition,” Lieutenant General Power said.

“We’re monitoring their status closely and working with our coalition partners to ensure they are getting the best possible care.”

Lieutenant General Power said senior Australian mentors at Forward Operating Base Pacemaker were now working closely with their Afghan National Army colleagues to develop a plan to recommence formal mentoring in the next few days.

“Afghan commanders made the decision that members of the Afghan National Army's 6th Kandak are no longer confined to their barracks and have recommenced administrative tasks and training within its confines,” he said.

“We expect that Afghan commanders will make the decision to re-issue combat equipment and weapons this week so that operations can resume.”

Defence has also ensured that ADF personnel involved in this incident have been provided the appropriate mental, pastoral and welfare care.

Planning is also underway to return Captain Duffy, Corporal Birt and Lance Corporal Gavin to their families in Australia.

Media contact:

Defence Media Operations 02 6127 1999