Sapper Jamie Larcombe, 21, was killed after his patrol came under heavy fire in the Mirabad region around 10:30pm (AEDT) last night. An Afghan man employed as an interpreter was also killed in the attack.Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston says both men were shot and unable to be revived, despite the best efforts of their comrades. "Unfortunately the soldier and interpreter showed no signs of life despite best efforts," he said.
He says other soldiers in the patrol were able to repel the attack while they attempted first aid and called for a medivac.
Sapper Larcombe had been serving in Afghanistan since September. Larcombe, from the Darwin-based First Combat Regiment, was from the same regiment as Corporal Richard Atkinson, killed earlier this month in Afghanistan.
Air Chief Marshal Houston has praised Sapper Larcombe, who was originally from South Australia.
"He was a quiet achiever who worked hard and was focused on getting the job done," he said. "He was courageous and professional. Our nation should mourn the loss of this fine young Australian."
Air Chief Marshal Houston says Sapper Larcombe is survived by his parents, three younger sisters and his girlfriend. "They are a very close family and can be proud of Jamie," he said.
Twenty-three Australian soldiers have now been killed since Australia sent troops to Afghanistan in 2001.