Australian Task Force leadership visits wounded soldiers in Germany

Defense Media Release, Monday, 28 June 2010

Middle East Commander visits wounded soldiers in Germany

The Commander and Regimental Sergeant Major of Australia’s Joint Task Force 633 have visited seven Australian commandos who continue to receive treatment for wounds they sustained in a helicopter crash on June 21.

Major General John Cantwell and Warrant Officer Class One Don Spinks made the flight into Germany over the weekend to see the soldiers in the US Army’s Landstuhl Regional Medical Center and pass on their best wishes.

Major General Cantwell said the soldiers were receiving first-class care from a team of very experienced and well-resourced medical staff at the facility.

“The latest medical assessment confirms two soldiers remain in a critical condition with very serious injuries, with the other five in a satisfactory condition,” Major General Cantwell said.

“The wounded soldiers still have a long way to go given they were involved in a very serious helicopter crash but they have received excellent care in Afghanistan and here in Germany.”

Major General Cantwell and Warrant Officer Class One Spinks also took the opportunity to speak with families of the wounded soldiers who had been moved to Germany to be with their loved ones.

“It has been a really tough week for the families and I assured them that the thoughts of the entire ADF family are with them. I know they are confident we are doing everything we can to assist the soldiers,” Major General Cantwell said.

“As the Commander I consider the care and welfare of these families part of my responsibility and I’m doing everything I can to ensure that they are being looked after as well.”

You may remember MG Cantwell from this recent post about the Australian SOTG's offensive in Shah Wali Kot, which included the video below. I knew he looked familiar but (as usual!) couldn't place him until afterwards. The nurses say he spent a good amount of time with each patient and his family, which is as it should be. We wish the soldiers all the best for a speedy recovery and a safe flight home. Proud to stand with you, Australia!