Captain Mathew Ferrara.

Embassy Extends Condolences - November 11

The Embassy extends our condolences to the friends and family of Captain Mathew Ferrara, killed in action in Afghanistan.  Born a dual citizen of both the United States and New Zealand, Capt. Ferrara had several family members here in New Zealand - in Auckland, Wellington and elsewhere - including his uncle the Hon Phil Goff.

Capt. Ferrara was serving in the U.S. Army, with the NATO led International Security Assistance Force.  ISAF's mission is to assist the Afghan government in bringing about a secure environment in which stabilisation and reconstruction can take place.

The death of any U.S. serviceman is a tragedy to be mourned, and the loss of such a decent young man engaged on a mission of peace is especially keenly felt here.  His strong New Zealand connections make this even more immediate to the Embassy, our Ambassador, and our staff.  The Embassy flag was flown at half-staff on Sunday, November 11 and Monday, November 12.