Amidst news reports that British aid worker Linda Norgrove, who was being held captive in Afghanistan, was accidentally killed by U.S. forces attempting to rescue her, Michael Yon filed the following report:
I contacted via email the office of General Petraeus in regard to the tragedy surrounding Ms. Norgrove. After two wars, General Petraeus is one of the sources I greatly trust. I did not speak to him directly about this. The General’s staff responded immediately with emails and a phone call. This is what I have, from Major Sunset Belinsky in Afghanistan:
“Additional information developed by the military commander in charge of the rescue operation prompted Gen. Petraeus to call for an immediate investigation. Review of the surveillance footage and discussions with rescue team members did not conclusively determine the cause of Linda Norgrove’s death. The initial report was that the captor set off some sort of explosive device which killed Ms. Norgrove. The review showed what was believed to be a member of the rescue team throwing a hand grenade in the area near where Ms. Norgrove was later found. It’s now unclear what the exact circumstances surrounding her death are, and the investigation will attempt to determine the facts.”
On a personal note, I do not know who was on that rescue mission but there is a good chance I know one or more. These men are the best we have, and I would trust my life with them. The facts are not in, but there is no doubt that General Petraeus and his people will deliver the facts in due course. As we mourn the loss of Ms. Norgrove, please remember who these men are who would give their own lives to save hers. Rest in peace Linda Norgrove.