SOFIA, June 18 (Xinhua) -- One soldier died and three others were injured during an airborne operation while participating in U.S.-led multinational exercise Swift Response 19 in Cheshnegirovo, Bulgaria, on Tuesday, an official statement said.
"The airborne jump was immediately suspended in order to attend to the paratrooper," said the statement of the U.S. Army Europe, published on the website of the U.S. embassy in Bulgaria.
All casualties were immediately transported to local hospitals where one was pronounced dead, one was admitted for further evaluation, and two were treated and released, the statement said.
"Though we take the utmost precaution and attempt to mitigate risk through rigorous training and careful planning, we need to train in realistic environments to ensure our forces are ready to respond to any crises," the statement said.
"Our sincere condolences go out to the Soldier's family and his unit. Military protocols are being followed regarding next of kin notification. Further information will be made available by the appropriate national authorities," the statement said.
According to the statement, Swift Response 2019 is a U.S. Army Europe-directed exercise led by the U.S. Global Response Force taking place from June 11-24 at various locations in Bulgaria, Croatia and Romania.
