U.S. Service Member and at Least 16 Suspected Rebels Killed in Afghan

[steve2470]

Fighting (rest of headline)


http://ap.tbo.com/ap/breaking/MGBDB06D6CE.html

KABUL, Afghanistan (AP) - One U.S. service member and at least 16 suspected Taliban rebels were killed in fighting in southern Afghanistan, the U.S. military said Tuesday.

Two American troops also were wounded Tuesday when a roadside bomb exploded near their vehicle in eastern Ghazni province.

The American was killed when Afghan and U.S. forces came under attack during a patrol Monday in southern Zabul province's Day Chopan district, triggering a firefight, the U.S. military said in a statement. U.S. and coalition aircraft provided air support during the clash.

"We are greatly saddened by the loss," U.S. Brig. Gen. James G. Champion was quoted as saying. "Afghan and U.S. forces will continue this search and attack mission to ensure there are no enemy safe havens in this region."

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