A bomb killed an American soldier and wounded four others when it exploded near their armored vehicle in Paktika Province, near the Pakistan border, the United States military said Saturday.The wounded soldiers were taken to nearby bases for treatment. One was in critical condition, one was in stable condition and two returned to duty, the military said.
It said the soldiers were providing security in anticipation of landmark legislative elections next month, which Taliban rebels have vowed to subvert. Paktika Province has been an active combat zone since American-led forces overthrew the Taliban in 2001. Since then, American and Afghan forces have conducted many sweeps in the region to try to root out fighters for the Taliban and Al Qaeda.
"Our forces have gained a great deal against the enemy, and our actions will ensure a safe and secure election next month," said Brig. Gen. James G. Champion, deputy commander of coalition forces in the country. "We will honor our fallen comrade by taking the fight to these cowards who are responsible for this attack."