U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Dave Thompson
Task Force Spartan Public Affairs

FORWARD OPERATING BASE SALERNO, Afghanistan, Nov. 7, 2006 — If there was any doubt as to the resolve and capability of the Afghan National Security Forces and their determination to protect their homeland from terrorist extremists, an Afghan police officer gave his life to make a strong case to the contrary.

In a display of selfless heroism, Afghan National Police Officer Abbarker died protecting the lives of the Andar District Governor, his fellow police officers and Coalition soldiers.

While guarding the Miri District Center in the District of Ghazni, Abbarker noticed that a man had bypassed the security checkpoint and was attempting to run into the District Center. Abbarker immediately suspected foul play and gave chase to stop the intruder. He tackled the man, forcing him away from the government officials and Coalition forces. As he wrestled to restrain the man and move him farther away from the

official party, the intruder detonated a vest packed with explosives, killing himself and the brave Abbarker.

Abbarker’s actions cost him his life, but in so doing, he saved the lives of many fellow Afghans as well as Coalition soldiers. Abdul Rhaim, the Andar District Governor, said that Abbarker was a brave soldier and that he had great respect for him and was deeply grateful for the unselfish sacrifice that saved his life and so many others.

“The honor and bravery of this man amazes me,” said U.S. Army Lt. Col. Steven Gilbert, Commander of Task Force Iron Grays. ”His actions have saved the lives of many fellow Afghans and Coalition forces from the cowardly actions of a suicide bomber and his great sacrifice will not be in vain.”