The U.S. Embassy in Estonia Extends its Condolences to the Families of Master Sergeant Eerik Salmus and Sergeant Raivis Kang, and to the People of Estonia
Tallinn, August 24, 2009
The Embassy of the United States extends its deepest and sincerest condolences to the family of Master Sergeant Eerik Salmus and Sergeant Raivis Kang, who were killed in action yesterday in Helmand, Afghanistan, and to the people of Estonia.
American and Estonian soldiers are working together in the NATO mission in Afghanistan to bring stability to that country and train Afghans to be able to take responsibility for their own security. The mission in Afghanistan is NATO's highest priority because the terrorists trained there have carried out attacks around the world. Yesterday's tragic consequences demonstrate the clear danger and difficulty of this mission, but we reaffirm its importance to our collective security.
Estonia has lost two brave sons who were willing to serve in the most dangerous province in Afghanistan. Master Sergeant Salmus and Sergeant Kang died trying to create the conditions so that others could live in peace - an ideal for which countless Americans and Estonians have sacrificed their lives throughout the history of our two nations. Sacrifices for such causes deserve the greatest recognition and gratitude. We honor Master Sergeant Salmus' and Sergeant Kang's service and their memory. We will not fail in carrying out their mission.