“I am deeply saddened to learn of the death of Private Vasil Kuljanishvili and the wounding of Sergeant Paata Rostobaia while serving in NATO’s Resolute Support mission in Afghanistan. On behalf of my country, I extend my deepest sympathies to the family of Private Kuljanishvili, and to the entire Georgian people. I also wish Sergeant Rostobaia a speedy and full recovery. Private Kuljanishvili"s and Sergeant Rostobaia"s bravery and sacrifice in support of international security symbolizes the heroism and valor of Georgian soldiers who fight shoulder-to-shoulder with U.S. Marines and Afghan government forces in Afghanistan - as equals, friends and brothers. This is a fight for the values we share. In honor of the loss of Private Kuljanishvili, I have ordered the U.S. Embassy’s flag be lowered to half-staff for the next 24 hours.” – says Ambassador Ian Kelly.