2 die as U.S. fighter jet crashes in Afghanistan

[laststeamtrain]

Source: LA TIMES

2 die as U.S. fighter jet crashes in Afghanistan
The F-15E crash brings coalition deaths to 50 in July. That includes 26 Americans.
By Laura King
Los Angeles Times Staff Writer

3:36 AM PDT, July 18, 2009

KABUL, Afghanistan — An American fighter jet crashed today in eastern Afghanistan, killing the two-man crew, U.S. military officials said.

The crash of the F-15E came amid what has already proven the deadliest month for Western troops in the course of the nearly 8-year-old Afghanistan conflict.

At least 50 coalition service members, including 26 Americans, have been killed so far in July. The highest previous monthly tally for Western troop fatalities in Afghanistan was 46.

American military officials have said the ongoing buildup of U.S. troops, together with a push into some previously insurgent-controlled areas, is likely to exact a rising casualty toll in coming months.

Read more: http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/world/la-fgw-afghanistan-crash19-2009jul19,0,796872.story

[ohio2007]

1. They didn't punch out

wonder if they flew into a mountain due to instrument failure

[Flaneur]

2. Busy, busy, the deadliest month so far for US and NATO forces.

And it's barely half over. 50 killed so far in July, compared to 30 for the whole month last year.

Edit for link: http://icasualties.org/oef/