Three Diggers wounded in Afghanistan

(AAP) - Three Australian soldiers have been wounded in two separate incidents in Afghanistan.

Two of the soldiers, who were patrolling in the Mirabad Valley region of Oruzgan
Province, were wounded when an improvised explosive device detonated.
One of the soldiers suffered minor blast and fragmentation wounds and is expected to
arrive back in Australia within a few days.
Another Australian soldier received superficial wounds in an IED blast while on a
separate patrol in the same region.
The latest casualties take the number of Australians wounded in Afghanistan so far
this year to 18.
Both incidents occurred on Saturday.
Two of the wounded soldiers are expected to remain in Afghanistan while they are
treated for their injuries.
Commander Joint Task Force 633 Major General John Cantwell praised the bravery of
the soldiers who completed their missions despite their wounds.
It was decided to evacuate the most seriously injured soldier to ensure the best
chance of a full recovery.
"The patrol reacted quickly to the blast, immediately securing the site, treating
the wounded soldier and detaining two men suspected to have been involved in the
placement and detonation of the improvised explosive device," Major General Cantwell
said.
"Initial medical assessment identified superficial wounds but to ensure he had the
best chance for a full recovery we decided to evacuate him from the site and let the
surgeons have a look."
Maj Gen Cantwell also paid tribute to two Afghan troops wounded in an IED blast
while on patrol with Australian forces in the Chora region in a third incident later
on Saturday.
Both men were treated for superficial wounds, before continuing with their mission.
"I am proud of the guts and determination displayed by the soldiers in these
patrols," Maj Gen Cantwell said.
"They looked after their mates then continued with their mission."
The families of the soldiers have been contacted.