Nathanael Galagher, from Pilliga was killed in a helicopter crash in Afghanistan. Photo: Defence
THE north-west and New England region has again been affected by the loss of a soldier in Afghanistan.
Wee Waa's Nathanael Galagher was one of two Commandos killed in a Iroquois helicopter crash in Helmand Province on Thursday ((Aug 30)).
The 23-year-old Private enlisted in the army in 2007 and was on his second deployment to Afghanistan.
He served with the 2nd Commando Regiment based at Holsworthy Barracks in Sydney.
Chief of the Defence Force General David Hurley said Private Gallagher was survived by his partner, parents and sister.
The region has previously lost Lieutenant Michael Fussell who was serving with the Special Operations Task Group when he was killed in action by an Improvised Explosive Device detonation while conducting a dismounted patrol in Uruzgan province, on November 27, 2008.
He was the seventh Australian to die in Afghanistan.
The latest deaths brings the total Australians killed in Afghanistan to 38.
Private Galagher is survived by his partner Jessie, parents Wayne and Sally and sister Elanor.