American journalist, translator killed in Afghanistan

Kabul: An American photojournalist and his Afghan translator were killed in an attack in Helmand province of Afghanistan.

They were travelling with an Afghan army unit that came under fire in on Sunday, their employer, National Public Radio, has announced.

Two other journalists travelling with American photojournalist David Gilkey and his translator Zabiullah Tamana were unharmed as their vehicle was struck by shellfire near the town of Marjah, Khamaa Press reported.

"David has been covering war and conflict in Iraq and Afghanistan since 9/11," said an NPR official.

US Secretary of State John Kerry praising the "gifted storyteller", said: "This attack is a grim reminder of the danger that continues to face the Afghan people, the dedication of Afghan national defence and security forces to securing their country and of the courage of intrepid journalists."

Gilkey received an Emmy award in 2007 for the video series Band of Brothers, about Michigan marines in Iraq, while his role in an NPR investigation on veteran medical care helped the outlet earn a 2010 George Polk Award.

Last year, Gilkey was honoured with the Edward R Murrow Award for his coverage of international breaking news, military conflicts and natural disasters.