Aug. 06., 2011. - ISAF Mourns Loss of 38 Killed in Helicopter Crash

[SgtJim]

ISAF Joint Command - Afghanistan
2011-08-C-017
For Immediate Release


KABUL, Afghanistan (Aug. 6, 2011) – Thirty International Security Assistance Force service members, one civilian interpreter, and seven Afghan commandos were killed when a coalition CH-47 Chinook crashed in Afghanistan early today.

All of the ISAF service members on board were from the U.S.

The incident represents the highest number of U.S. forces killed during a single event in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

“No words describe the sorrow we feel in the wake of this tragic loss,” said General John R. Allen, Commander, International Security Assistance Force. “All of those killed in this operation were true heroes who had already given so much in the defense of freedom. Their sacrifice will not be forgotten. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families who are now waiting for their loved ones to return home. We will do everything in our power to support them in this time of need.”

“We also mourn the loss of our heroic Afghan partners who fight with us shoulder to shoulder, every day,” added Allen.

An investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the crash. Additional details will be provided as they become available.

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previously release about the crash:

Helicopter Crashes in Eastern Afghanistan; Recovery Underway

ISAF Joint Command - Afghanistan
2011-08-S-014
For Immediate Release

KABUL, Afghanistan (Aug. 6, 2011) – An International Security Assistance Force helicopter crashed in eastern Afghanistan today, and recovery operations are underway.

ISAF is still in the process of assessing the circumstances to determine the facts of the incident, reporting indicates there was enemy activity in the area.

Additional details will be released as appropriate.

[SgtJim]

Statement by U.S. President Obama on deadly NATO helicopter crash

U.S. President Barack Obama on Saturday morning released the following statement after a NATO helicopter crash in eastern Afghanistan killed 31 Americans and 7 Afghan soldiers.
"My thoughts and prayers go out to the families and loved ones of the Americans who were lost earlier today in Afghanistan. Their deaths are a reminder of the extraordinary sacrifices made by the men and women of our military and their families, including all who have served in Afghanistan. We will draw inspiration from their lives, and continue the work of securing our country and standing up for the values that they embodied. We also mourn the Afghans who died alongside our troops in pursuit of a more peaceful and hopeful future for their country. At this difficult hour, all Americans are united in support of our men and women in uniform who serve so that we can live in freedom and security."
From NATO Secretary General:

06 Aug. 2011
Secretary General's statement on helicopter tragedy in Afghanistan

I am deeply saddened by the death of US service members and Afghan soldiers in today's helicopter incident. My thoughts and condolences are with their families and loved ones.
In this tragic moment I would like to stress NATO's strong solidarity with the American and the Afghan people as well as with their respective Governments.
Brave and committed men and women from 48 countries are working along side their Afghan counterparts, to make Afghanistan a peaceful and stable country. We honour their sacrifices.
We are determined to stay the course, especially in this crucial period when Afghan and international security forces are working closer than ever to make transition a success