With the deaths of eight service members in multiple attacks there on Oct. 27, the U.S. marked the deadliest month of fighting in Afghanistan since Operation Enduring Freedom began eight years ago. The October toll reached 53, exceeding the previous high of 51 deaths, set in August. Several other service members who were wounded in the complex attacks were transported to military medical treatment facilities. In complex attacks, the enemy launches multiple, simultaneous assaults on vehicles or positions, using several improvised explosive devices to maximize casualties, a Marine spokesman said.
