U.S. Soldier Killed in Helmand Province

One U.S. Soldier was killed late Monday afternoon July 3 as the result of wounds received during an indirect fire attack.

Pfc. Hansen B. Kirkpatrick, 19, of Wasilla, Ark., was killed by indirect fire in Helmand province while deployed as part of the U.S. advise-assist and counterterrorism operations in the country.

Two Soldiers were also wounded in the attack, but their wounds are not considered life threatening and they are being treated at a coalition medical facility.

“At a time when we remember the patriots who founded our nation in freedom, we are saddened by the loss of one of our comrades who was here protecting our freedom at home,” said General John Nicholson, Commander, U.S. Forces-Afghanistan. “We will keep his family in our thoughts and prayers as we reflect on the sacrifice he and others have made to secure our freedoms and help make Afghanistan a better place.”

There has been fierce fighting in Helmand where Afghan security forces have been locked in constant clashes with Taliban insurgents, who have managed to reestablish a significant presence in the area. At least 300 Marines have been deployed to the province to train, advise and assist Afghan soldiers and police.