Joao Silva Wounded

by Editor on October 25, 2010

Joao Silva on assignment in Madagascar, February 2009. (Photo: AP, Jerome Delay)

One of the most respected war photographers in the world, Joao Silva, was severely wounded Saturday when he stepped on an IED.  On assignment for the New York Times, Mr. Silva was on patrol with a unit of the Fourth Infantry Division in southern Afghanistan.

Word has come quickly through the photojournalist world that Mr. Silva has had both legs amputated below the knee.  After undergoing surgery at a military hospital in the Kandahar province, he was moved to Bagram Air Force base near Kabul.  He has since been moved to Germany for further treatment.

The official Times report may be read here.

Portuguese – born Joao Silva was made famous in part by his coverage of the 1990s violence in South Africa (he was part of the renowned “Bang-Bang Club”, along with fellow photographers Bill Keller, Kevin Carter, and Ken Oosterbroek.  He is renown throughout photojournalism circles as an exceptional photographer with a quiet, respectful way of obtaining his images.

My hopes and prayers go to Mr. Silva and his family.  War photographers – of which I have a most fervent intent of being one day soon – face serious injury or death often.  Often the risks go unspoken about, but it is always sobering when something goes wrong.

Godspeed to a quick recovery, Mr. Silva.  Our prayers are with you.

Tags: News

{ 0 comments… add one now }

Leave a Comment

Previous post:

Next post: