Embassy of the United States

2009 Press Releases

The U.S. Embassy in Estonia Extends its Condolences to the Family of Master Sergeant Allain Tikko and to the People of Estonia

Tallinn, June 15, 2009

The Embassy of the United States extends its deepest condolences to the family of Master Sergeant Allain Tikko, who was killed in action today 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. Today's incident demonstrates the difficulty of this mission, but we reaffirm its importance to our collective security.

Estonia has lost a brave son who was willing to serve in the most dangerous province in Afghanistan. Master Sergeant Tikko died trying to create the conditions so that others could live in peace – an ideal for which many 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 Tikko's service and his memory. We will not fail in carrying out his mission.