Modesto Marine Among 2 Killed In Afghanistan

RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) -- Military officials are investigating the deaths of two North Carolina-based Marines who were killed in Afghanistan.

The Department of Defense reported Monday that 27-year-old Sgt. Kevin B. Balduf of Nashville, Tenn., and 43-year-old Lt. Col. Benjamin J. Palmer of Modesto, Calif., died May 12 in Helmand province.

No additional details were provided.

Balduf was assigned to 8th Communications Battalion, II Marine Expeditionary Force at Camp Lejeune. Palmer was assigned to Marine Wing Headquarters Squadron 2, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, II Marine Expeditionary Force at Cherry Point.

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