The U.S. soldier who was killed during an operation in Afghanistan Tuesday was identified as Staff Sgt. Matthew V. Thompson, 28, of Irvine, KABC-TV reported.
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Gov. Jay Inslee issued a statement today on the death of Staff Sgt. Matthew V. Thompson in Helmand Province, Afghanistan.
Thompson was conducting training activities with Afghan peers when the patrol “triggered an improvised explosive device”, according to a U.S. Forces Afghanistan news release.
Thompson was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne), Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington.
The death of Thompson, a Green Beret, was the first of an American service member in Afghanistan since January 2016.
“He was an exceptional Green Beret, a cherished teammate, and devoted husband”. He previously had deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Inherent Resolve.
Thompson was killed by a bomb blast that left another American service member injured and six Afghan soldiers.
Votel extended condolences to the soldier’s family and friends.
“Our deepest sympathies go out to the families and friends of those involved”, General John W. Nicholson, commander of US and North Atlantic Treaty Organisation forces in Afghanistan, said Tuesday before Thompson’s identity was officially announced. Both fatalities occurred in Helmand province and less than 30 miles apart.
Thompson enlisted in the Army in March 2011 as a Special Forces candidate.
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“This tragic event in Helmand province reminds us that Afghanistan remains a unsafe place”, Carter said in a statement Tuesday. That group includes trainers as well as a force to provide protection for them.
