Good News From Iraq

AL-QAEDA MILITARY EMIR, 16 OTHER SUSPECTS DETAINED IN RAIDS

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition Forces detained 17 suspected terrorists including a reported al-Qaeda in Iraq military emir during operations early Saturday morning.

Northwest of Taji, eight suspected terrorists were detained during a Coalition Forces raid.

Among the suspects detained was the accused al-Qaeda emir of Rusafa and former vehicle-borne improvised explosive device cell leader.

“This is another significant step in our efforts to disrupt the VBIED network and their devastating attacks against the Iraqi people,” said Lt. Col. Christopher Garver, MNF-I spokesperson.

In Mosul, Coalition Forces captured two suspects with ties to recent al-Qaeda attacks on Iraqi and Coalition Forces.

During a raid in Baghdad, three al-Qaeda in Iraq suspects were captured, and four more were captured east of Amiriyah.

Iraqi soldiers and coalition helicopters repel terrorist attack
Multi-National Division – North PAO

MOSUL, Iraq – Iraqi Army soldiers engaged and destroyed two Vehicle Borne IEDs as
insurgents attacked their combat outpost in Mosul Sunday.

Iraqi soldiers immediately treated the injured, reinforced security and returned fire
as nearby insurgents attacked the combat outpost.

Two Multi-National Division-North helicopters were in the area and immediately
responded to support the Iraqi outpost under attack. Insurgent ground fire struck one of
the aircraft, causing it to make a precautionary landing due to mechanical problems.

The helicopter, an OH-58D “Kiowa Warrior”, landed safely away from the
engagement area. The pilots of the downed aircraft, both uninjured, were safely
recovered by a second helicopter and returned to base.

The recovered pilots returned to their Coalition base, launched another helicopter and went back to the engagement area to continue the fight.

Their original aircraft was recovered by an alternate air crew.

Four Iraqi Army soldiers were killed and four others were wounded in the attack.

An unknown number of AIF, including the two vehicle drivers, were killed in the
engagement.

Provincial Security Forces discover weapons cache
Multi-National Force – West PAO

RAMADI, Iraq – Provincial Security Force 1 discovered a weapons cache in the Hay Al Dhobot Thanaya district while conducting clearing operations here April 13.

The cache consisted of 22 speed bump improvised explosive devices, 11 fire extinguishers, four propane cylinders, two suicide vests, 60 projectiles and mortars ranging in size from 60mm to 130mm, and 10 gallons of chlorine.

Golf Company, 2nd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment assisted in the recovery of the cache by securing the area until demolition experts arrived to assess and reduce the cache.

The weapons and materials discovered are commonly used by insurgents to
make improvised explosive devices.

Coalition demolition experts destroyed the cache with a controlled detonation.

Local citizens turn in extremists
Multi-National Division – North PAO

BAQUBAH, Iraq – Local citizens in Buhriz, a neighborhood within Baqubah, Iraq, informed Iraqi Security and Coalition Forces of six terrorists in the area, leading to their detention Friday.

The terrorists admitted being responsible for placing and detonating improvised explosive devices and have been transferred to a detention facility.

“The people are getting tired of the terrorists’ continued violence, realizing the terrorists wish to bring nothing but destruction and harm to their families and their villages,” said Col. David W. Sutherland, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division commander and senior U.S. Army officer in Diyala province. “They will not be swayed by the terrorists’ actions and are beginning to turn to the security forces for help as they recognize the ISF are the true protectors of their country.”

Operation Yukon River reaps cache, seizes eight suspects in southern Baghdad
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO

KALSU, Iraq — An operation south of Baghdad by Iraqi Army troops uncovered a weapons cache and detained eight insurgent suspects April 12.

Members of the 5th Battalion, 4th Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division and paratroopers from 1st Squadron, 40th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 25th Infantry Division, conducted clearing operations in Adwaniyah, limiting the ability of anti-Iraqi forces to operate in the area.

Eight insurgent suspects were detained in the operation, dubbed Operation Yukon River. The cache uncovered included five AK-47s, more than 30 loose AK-47 rounds, 13 AK-47 ammunition magazines, one machine gun, one rifle with night site and flash suppressor, one hand grenade, two bandoliers and one ski mask.

No casualties resulted in the operation. Operation Yukon River was a joint effort that established security in the southeastern portion of Baghdad.

The detainees are being held for further questioning.

10 detained following mortar attack
4th BCT (Abn.), 25th Inf. Div. Public Affairs Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO

KALSU, Iraq — Ten suspected insurgents were seized by Coalition Forces south east of Forward Operating Base Kalsu and two weapons caches were uncovered April 13 here, following an insurgent mortar attack.

Paratroopers from 2nd Battalion, 377th Parachute Field Artillery Regiment, 4th Bbrigade Combat Team (Airborne), 25th Infantry Division were pursuing insurgents identified as a mortar team when they uncovered the caches and seized the suspected insurgents.

The caches contained one .22-caliber rifle, four AK-47s, .22-caliber rifle ammunition, AK-47 ammunition, one mortar tube, one mortar base plate and one mortar tripod.

No casualties resulted from this operation. The 10 suspects have been detained for further questioning.

Earlier in the day, enemy mortar fire was reported near to FOB Kalsu.

Operation Yukon River reaps cache, seizes eight suspects in southern Baghdad
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO

KALSU, Iraq — An operation south of Baghdad by Iraqi Army troops uncovered a weapons cache and detained eight insurgent suspects April 12.

Members of the 5th Battalion, 4th Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division and paratroopers from 1st Squadron, 40th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 25th Infantry Division, conducted clearing operations in Adwaniyah, limiting the ability of anti-Iraqi forces to operate in the area.

Eight insurgent suspects were detained in the operation, dubbed Operation Yukon River. The cache uncovered included five AK-47s, more than 30 loose AK-47 rounds, 13 AK-47 ammunition magazines, one machine gun, one rifle with night site and flash suppressor, one hand grenade, two bandoliers and one ski mask.

No casualties resulted in the operation. Operation Yukon River was a joint effort that established security in the southeastern portion of Baghdad.

The detainees are being held for further questioning.

IA Soldiers clear IEDs, rescue victims
Multi-National Division -North PAO

AS SADIYAH, Iraq – Iraqi Army Soldiers from 1st Company, 1st Battalion, 5th IA cleared
two improvised explosive devices and rescued two vehicle drivers when a group of anti-
Iraqi forces attacked a fuel convoy enroute from Baqubah, Iraq, to Iran Saturday.

5th IA Soldiers responded to the attack on the convoy, which consisted of seven
tractor-trailer fuel trucks, after reports of small-arms fire.

The IA Soldiers cleared two IEDs enroute to the site. Once they arrived on scene,
the Soldiers secured the site and recovered the vehicles while rescuing casualties.
Five vehicle drivers and one passenger were killed during the attack.

Two drivers were taken to the 5th IA compound for security and questioning.

The incident remains under investigation.

FIVE TERRORISTS KILLED, TWO DETAINED IN BASRAH RAID

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Iraqi and Coalition Forces killed five terrorists and detained two suspected terrorists during an operation early Saturday morning in Basrah targeting rogue Jaysh al Mahdi elements.

During the raid, Iraqi and Coalition Forces began receiving enemy small arms fire. Ground forces returned fire killing five terrorists.

Ground forces also discovered three men running electric wire used to detonate improvised explosive devices across a road. The three men fled as ground forces approached.

"As the Iraqi Prime Minister has repeatedly stated, militias that do not adopt to the rule of law have no place in Iraq's future," said Lt. Col. Christopher Garver, a spokesperson for MNF-I. "Those who use terror as a weapon against the Iraqi people will be targeted and eliminated."

Two roadside bomb teams hit while laying devices in Basra
Basra Press Information Centre

BASRA- Two roadside bomb teams were hit by British forces after they were seen in the process of laying their devices yesterday.

This took place on the outskirts of the Hyall Shuala District to the west of Basra City.

It is assessed that at least eight of those laying the devices were killed.

The location of the strike was close to where two roadside bomb attacks took place last week.

It is not possible to directly link those killed last night with last week’s roadside bombs.

However, these militiamen were intent upon launching exactly the same type of attack in the same area.

This was a security operation launched by the Force Reserve, 2nd Bn Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment Battlegroup.

Precision guided ground to ground missiles, tank fire and 105mm light gun were employed as they were available and most suited to the range and nature of the target.

Air support was available throughout but it was decided not to use air-delivered munitions in order to keep the risk of collateral damage to an absolute minimum.

“The Multinational Force (MNF) in SE Iraq must be able to strike those militia who seek to kill its soldiers, and who also intimidate the people of Basra with death threats.

Operations against rogue militia will therefore continue, especially so against their leadership and their weapons stocks but also, as in this case, against operatives.

Increasingly, over the coming weeks and months, these operations will become Iraqi-led and executed.

Disrupting militia operations and eroding their capabilities, alongside building Iraqi Security Force capacity, will create the conditions for successful security transition in Basra,” said Lt Col Kevin Stratford-Wright, spokesman for MND(SE).

Iraqi Special Operations Forces raid nets five Al-Qaeda members in Baghdad
Multi-National Corps – Iraq PAO

BAGHDAD – Iraqi Special Operations Forces conducted a late night raid in Baghdad on April 11, capturing five suspects believed to be linked with al-Qaeda in Iraq.

With coalition advisers present for support, Iraqi Forces raided several residences in western Baghdad and detained their targets without incident.

The primary targets of this operation are alleged to be involved in insurgent
activities and organizations in the Baghdad area. As prior intelligence provided by locals indicated, Iraqi Forces also discovered weapons at the locations raided.

No Iraqi or coalition forces were injured during this operation.

ONE MAN KILLED, FOUR SUSPECTS DETAINED IN BAGHDAD RAID

BAGHDAD – One armed man was killed Monday morning and four suspected terrorists were detained when Coalition Forces conducted a raid on individuals with suspected ties to al-Qaida in Baghdad.

Four suspected terrorists with ties to facilitating foreign fighters were detained when ground forces cleared a building.

Shortly after securing the targeted building, ground forces encountered four armed men emerging from a nearby palm grove. Assessing the armed men as hostile, Coalition Forces used appropriate self-defense measures and engaged the armed men, killing one.

Iraqis at the scene claimed the man killed worked for airport highway security. Coalition Forces are working to validate the claim and determine his association with the suspected terrorists detained during the operation.

Coalition Forces make every effort to reduce risk to Iraqi civilians by coordinating their operations with other friendly forces in the area.

Two-day mission provides medical care for about 550 Iraqis
Multi-National Division – Center PAO

Mahmudiyah, Iraq -- After providing more than 330 Iraqi citizens with medical
attention April 11, Soldiers from Fort Drum, N.Y., helped 217 more people the
next day.

Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 15th Field Artillery Regiment and the 478th Civil Affairs Battalion, both from 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, brought medical assistance and supplies to the people of Mamudiyah, Iraq. The previous day’s mission was carried out in Latifyah.

The missions were part of an effort to improve relations with the local Iraqi people, said 2nd Lt. Nicole McNish, executive officer for Headquarters Battery, 2-
15 FA.

The units conduct such medical operations at least four times a month, said Spc. Cecilia Morales, a medic with Company C, Brigade Support Battalion, 2nd BCT, 10th Mtn. Div.

The clinic was set up at a local boys’ school with soldiers of the 4th Battalion, 6th Infantry Regiment of the Iraqi army assisting with security. “Sometimes finding a good location can be a challenge,” said Capt. Ian McKenna, commander of HHB, 2-15 FA.

Having local medical providers is also an issue,” McKenna said. “There are a lot of problems that we can’t fix at a one-stop shop. We’re here, we can address the little things, but we can’t fix the long-term things like diabetes, hypertension or allergies.”

While McKenna acknowledged the shortcomings of the system, he was quick to praise the efforts of his Iraqi counterparts, such as Capt. Assad Muhammad Hamad, Headquarters and Service Company commander of 4-6.“He’s a little guy with a big heart – the heart of a lion,” McKenna said. “We work well together with the Iraqi army, so security is not a big issue.”

McKenna said that he thinks some big changes will need to be made in order to see dramatic improvements in Iraq’s health care.“It’s still good,” he said. “It shows the Iraqis are taking the lead.”

In spite of the disappointment of not being able to provide long-term solutions, Soldiers who participated in the mission had positive things to say about the end results.

“We helped 217 people today,” said Sgt. John Sniadecki, a radar operator and the commander of the relief for Mamudiyah Base Defense Operations Center.

Other medical personnel also expressed why they felt it was a success. “I feel pretty good,” said Pfc. Lisa Doeker, a medic attached to HHB 2-15 FA. “It’s a nice way to give back to the Iraqi people. And it’s a nice change from trauma.”

Insurgent mortar team run to ground by paratroopers in Kalsu
2nd Battalion, 377th PFAR Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO

KALSU, Iraq — Paratroopers from the 2nd Battalion, 377th Parachute Field Artillery Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 25th Infantry Division,
artillerymen by trade, are accustomed to providing, not receiving, indirect fire.

But on the evening of April 13, Forward Operating Base Kalsu, located south of Baghdad, received mortar fire, and paratroopers from the 2-377th PFAR were dispatched to respond.

The mortar team, consisting of eight insurgents, was observed by returning their mortar system and individual weapons to a cache site immediately following the indirect fire attack.

A platoon from the Battery B “Eagles” were conducting another mission in the area, when they received the call to change their mission and detain the individuals seen leaving the cache site.

“I was expecting just another quiet evening until I got the call over the radio explaining the situation,” said Sgt. 1st Class Bobby Joe Williams, a gunnery sergeant and native of Water Valley, Miss. “My paratroopers were ready and willing to capture the individuals behind the recent mortar attacks,” he added.

The Battery A “Falcons” were on the FOB at the time of the attack, and quickly assembled the battalion’s quick reaction force and moved to team up with their Eagle counterparts.

Members of Bravo Battery immediately detained nine individuals, while Alpha Battery retrieved the weapons from the cache site and pursued a fleeing insurgent.

The fugitive fled approximately nearly three-quarters of a mile over rough terrain, to no avail.

“After chasing him for over 45 minutes, through six canals we were very proud to show him that he wasn’t getting away from this group of paratroopers,” said Capt. Matthew Thompson, Alpha Battery commander and Panama City, Fla., native.

“You had better be in some excellent physical shape, if you want to try and outrun the paratroopers of Falcon Battery,” he added. A total of ten individuals, six AK47 rifles, numerous AK47 magazines and a mortar system were captured.

The detainees are being held for questioning.

Operation Dixon: Nitric acid cache seized, three detained
2nd IBCT, 2nd Inf. Div. Public Affairs Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO

FORWARD OPERATING BASE LOYALTY, Iraq — Multi-National Division –
Baghdad Soldiers seized a large cache consisting of 600 five-gallon containers of
nitric acid during an operation in eastern Baghdad April 12.

Soldiers from Company D, 1st Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division, uncovered the nitric acid cache inside a warehouse during cordon and search operations in the Baghdad’s Rusafa district.

“Operation Dixon” was aimed at disrupting local vehicle-borne improvised
explosive device networks operating in the area and gaining additional information and intelligence on the VBIED networks.

Nitric acid is commonly used as a primary ingredient in explosives. Numerous locations were searched in the Rusafa district. Besides the nitric acid cache uncovered, three Iraqi suspects were detained and various items were confiscated, to include mobile phones, vehicle license plates, various identification cards, batteries, ammunitions and electrical components.

The suspects are being held for further questioning.

Acid-laden truck bombing foiled north of Baghdad
1BCT, 1st Cavalry Div,
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO

BAGHDAD — A dump truck overturned attempting to deliver its payload of explosives and nitric acid during a foiled attack in Mushada, Iraq Monday.

A coalition patrol approached to assist the driver of an overturned dump truck and found the vehicle loaded with nitric acid containers and explosives.

The driver was taken into custody and confessed that he was paid to attack the Joint Security Station in Mushada, which also houses the town’s Iraqi police station.

An explosive ordnance team was called in to assess the contents of the truck and dispose of the material. The team discovered eight containers of nitric acid, eight directional fragmentation explosives devices, and two large rounds of ordnance.

The explosives and munitions discovered will be disposed of by EOD once they are carefully removed from the site.

The driver is being held for further questioning.

COALITION FORCES CAPTURE EIGHT SUSPECTED TERRORISTS

BAGHDAD – Eight suspected terrorists, including two linked to a network placing improvised explosive devices, were detained Tuesday when Coalition Forces conducted raids near Baghdad and Fallujah.

In Baghdad, two individuals were detained for having alleged ties to a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device network operating in the area. They are suspected of providing and transporting VBIED materials.

In Karmah, a village northeast of Fallujah, Coalition Forces detained six men for suspected ties to the al-Qaida terrorist network.

“These captures are another step in disrupting the terrorist networks operating in Iraq,” said Lt. Col. Christopher Garver, MNF-I spokesperson.

B-Roll – 3rd Gridiron Greats Tour comes to 3rd Infantry
Division Headquarters
Multi-National Division – Center PAO

BAGHDAD – ‘B-Roll’ of NFL players Chris Harris, Nick Harper, and Idonije visiting the 3rd Infantry Division headquarters is available upon request from the Digital Video and Imagery Distribution System (DVIDS) by calling (678) 421-6604 or by accessing the DVIDS Web site at http://www.dvidshub.net/.

The footage depicts the athletes meeting with Maj. Gen. Rick Lynch, 3rd Infantry Division commander, Command Sgt. Maj. Jesse L. Andrews Jr, 3rd Infantry Division command sergeant major, and Colonel Mark McKnight, 3rd Infantry Division chief of staff. The athletes also toured the headquarters building to meet with soldiers and sign autographs.

Iraqi Security Forces to dedicate soccer field
Media invited to observe ceremony in NE Baghdad
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO

BAGHDAD — Media are invited to observe Iraqi Security Forces as they dedicate a soccer field to children in the Shaab/Ur neighborhood of northeast Baghdad, Wednesday, April 18 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

Media interested in attending please contact Maj. Kevin Inglin at Multi-National Division – Baghdad public affairs at
kevin.inglin@mnd-b.army.mil
This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
or 0790-174-3303 no later than April 17. Air transport to this event will be provided.

Media will meet at the CPIC for ground transport to LZ Washington.

Operation Eagle Lightning nets terrorists, weapons caches and IEDs
2nd BCT, 10th Mtn. Div.(L) PAO Multi-National Division – Center PAO

BAGHDAD – Coalition and Iraqi forces detained 33 suspected terrorists, discovered six weapons caches and five improvised explosive devices during a
combat operation in the Shaka area, just south of Baghdad, Monday.

Soldiers from the 2nd Battalion, 15th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Brigade
Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry) and the 4th Brigade, 6th
Iraqi army Division participated in the operation, dubbed Operation Eagle
Lightning, as part of an effort to disrupt anti-Iraqi forces within the Shaka area
and to deny enemy forces safe haven within that area.

The six caches consisted of a 14.5mm anti-aircraft gun, 250 14.5mm rounds, a sniper rifle, five empty artillery canisters, an artillery round, a canister with homemade explosives, five IEDs, eight rocket propelled grenade launchers, 200 loose rifle rounds, an RPG launcher, three ski masks, three magazine racks, two AK-47s, two flak vests, 12 AK-47 magazines, a grenade, a large caliber weapon with ammunition and an insurgent propaganda videotape.

During the operation a total of 33 suspected terrorists were detained. Of the five IEDs, one was discovered to be an anti-tank mine.

The contents of the cache were destroyed during a controlled detonation conducted by the Explosive Ordnance Team.

The detainees were held for further questioning.

FIVE KILLED, 30 DETAINED IN RAID NEAR FALLUJAH

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Five terrorists were killed, four suspected terrorists were wounded and 26 more were detained Wednesday morning during an operation near Karmah, a rural area northeast of Fallujah.

Coalition Forces raided a group of buildings known to be used by terrorists and found explosive materials in one of the buildings. A helicopter used precision-guided munitions to strike the contents of the building. Secondary explosions at the site confirmed the material inside was explosive.

During the operation, Coalition Forces were engaged by a group of armed men and returned fire in self-defense, killing five and wounding four. The wounded were taken to military medical facilities for treatment.

Twenty-six additional suspected terrorists were detained during the operation. Women and children were present, but no civilians were injured in the operation.

“Terrorists continue to operate among women and children, putting innocent Iraqis in danger,” said Lt. Col. Christopher Garver, MNF-I spokesperson.

SUSPECTED CHLORINE-BOMB TERRORISTS DETAINED

BAGHDAD, Iraq – One terrorist was killed and eight suspected terrorists linked to al-Qaeda foreign fighters and improvised explosive device networks were detained Wednesday in two separate Coalition Forces raids.

One armed terrorist was killed and Coalition Forces detained five suspected terrorists west of Taji. The suspected terrorists are believed to be tied to al-Qaeda in Iraq and a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device network known to use chlorine in its attacks. They are also allegedly involved in facilitating foreign terrorist movements.

“This capture disrupts a threat to the people of Iraq as well as Coalition Forces,” said Lt. Col. Christopher Garver, MNF-I spokesperson “Terrorists continue to disregard the safety of all Iraqis, and we will persist in dismantling their networks that undermine the security of the Iraqi people.”

In Mosul, three suspected terrorists with ties to the al-Qaeda in Iraq network were detained.

Joint statement by Ambassador Asquith, Ambassador Crocker and Gen. Petraeus on the transfer of Maysan Province

BAGHDAD – Today’s transfer of security responsibility in Maysan Province from the Multi-National Force–Iraq to the Government of Iraq and civilian-controlled Iraqi Security Forces (ISF) demonstrates another step towards a stable and secure Iraq. Maysan is the fourth of 18 provinces to be transitioned and this reflects Iraq’s continued steps toward a capability to govern and protect itself and its citizens as a sovereign nation.

The joint decision of the Iraqi Government and the MNF-I to transition security responsibility reflects their assessment of the situation in Maysan and the capabilities of the Iraqi Security Forces there. It also reflects an assessment of Maysan’s provincial leadership as having the ability to perform governance duties at the provincial level. Transition teams are in place to facilitate the transfer process, and Coalition forces stand ready to provide assistance if needed.

Even after today’s transfer, Multi-National Force-Iraq will remain committed to the development of Maysan Province. To date, the US Army Corps of Engineers has completed 211 projects in Maysan Province, totaling $98.2 million, and it will provide further funding for 15 additional projects totaling $14 million dollars. In addition to this, the Maysan Provincial Reconstruction Team is working with provincial officials to increase their ability to access central government funds and to improve the capacity of provincial institutions to spend revenues effectively. The PRT is also funding $8 million of health and road infrastructure projects, which will speed the delivery of essential services to the people of Maysan.

The transition of responsibility in Maysan Province represents another step toward Iraqi self-reliance. With the continued support of the Coalition, Iraq will continue to progress along a path to national unity, improved security, and increasing prosperity that benefits all its citizens.

Engineers begin large-scale construction in Amariyah-Ferris
2nd Marine Logistics Group (Forward) PAO
Multi-National Force – West PAO

AL TAQADDUM, Iraq – In the largest engineering operation since 2nd Marine Logistics Group (Forward) arrived in January, the 8th Engineer Support Battalion began construction of a number of combat outposts in the Amariyah-Ferris region of Al Anbar Province April 14.

The battalion, with support from Combat Logistics Battalion 6, is constructing the outposts in support of Operation Fardh al Qanoon (Enforce the Law), intended to interdict terrorist movement in and out of Baghdad and return control of the area to the Iraqi people.

The Amariyah-Ferris region, approximately 25 kilometers south of the city of Fallujah, has become a fallback point for terrorist groups pushed out of urban areas in the wake of successful operations by Iraqi and Coalition Forces.

The positions constructed by 8th ESB, currently operating under the 30th Naval Construction Regiment, will ultimately be turned over to Iraqi control.

Iraqi Special Operations Forces Conduct Several Raids in Baghdad; Achieve All Objectives
Multi-National Corps – Iraq PAO

BAGHDAD – Iraqi Special Operations Forces conducted several early morning raids in east Baghdad on April 17, detaining a target believed to be responsible for the kidnapping and murder of an interpreter working for Coalition Forces. In another raid, they detained four individuals suspected of being involved in death squad activities along with attacks against ISOF and coalition forces.

With coalition advisers present for support, Iraqi Special Forces raided a residence in the Al Kamalaya neighborhood in east Baghdad and captured the targeted individual.

The primary target of this operation is believed to be personally responsible for the kidnapping and murder of a female Iraqi interpreter who worked with Coalition Forces and is believed to be linked with extremist elements of the Jaysh al-Madhi. One automatic weapon was confiscated.

In the second raid in Sadr City, Iraqi Special Forces also detained four individuals believed to be involved in death squad activities as well as attacks on Coalition and Iraqi Security Forces. They also seized one automatic weapon.

No Iraqi or coalition forces were injured during these operations.

Quick-thinking IA soldier recognizes, engages SVBIED
Multi-National Division – North PAO

MOSUL, Iraq – An alert Iraqi Army soldier from 1st Battalion, 2nd Brigade, 2nd Iraqi Army Division, near Nablis, identified and engaged a driver attempting to attack an Iraqi combat outpost Tuesday with a suicide vehicle-borne improvised explosive device.

The driver was shot and killed by the soldier, causing his bomb to detonate prematurely.

The blast, although missing its intended target, killed three Iraqi civilians and wounded four others.

Soldiers from the 2nd Brigade, 2nd Iraqi Army Division responded to the scene and offered assistance moving the wounded to a local Hospital.

School reopens in Ramadi
Multi-National Force – West PAO

AR RAMADI, Iraq - Marking the culmination of a 53-day renovation project, members of the West Central Ramadi District Council and local residents held a grand re-opening ceremony for the Al Warar Boys School here, April 17.

Approximately 100 students, more than a dozen teachers and numerous city leaders were in attendance for the ribbon cutting ceremony of the newly renovated facility. Arif Mokber Sayad, vice president of the WCRDC, and Fadel Khalaf Saleh, provincial director general of education were given the honor of cutting the ribbon for the celebratory occasion.

“Being here and seeing these happy children makes me remember my own childhood,” Sayad said. “Because of the cooperation of the people of Ramadi and the Coalition Forces, we will be able to educate our children properly.”

Approximately 100 Iraqi workers from local neighborhoods were contracted for the renovation, adding four new classrooms, repairing the roof, floors and plumbing, replacing all the doors and windows, installing air conditioning and heating units, and repainting the building.

The improved security in and around Ramadi has made this project and others possible in recent months. The cooperation between tribal leaders, local citizens and the Iraqi Police and Army in the province along with Coalition Forces continues to grow, providing a more solid foundation for future development.

Ironhorse troops take down suspected al-Qaeda leader
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO

CAMP TAJI, Iraq – Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers detained a suspected al-Qaeda leader north of Tarmiyah, Iraq in the early morning hours of April 20.

Along with the suspected terrorist cell leader, Soldiers from the 1st “Ironhorse” Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division detained 14 other individuals suspected of insurgent activity.

Working off tips from local residents that insurgents were operating out of two houses in the area, Ironhorse troopers from the 2nd Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment were able to execute the arrests. This was just one of several recent tips from local villagers that have led to the capture of key al-Qaeda suspects, helping to reduce the level of violence in the area.

No U.S. Soldiers were killed or wounded during the operation.

All 15 suspects were detained for further questioning.

Ammunition found, six suspected insurgents detained
Multi-National Division – Baghdad

KALSU, Iraq – Ammunition was found and six suspected insurgents were detained south of Baghdad April 20.

Paratroopers from Troop A, 1st Squadron, 40th Cavalry Regiment, found the ammunition and detained six suspects at the cache site.

The find consisted of five charges for mortar rounds, two boxes of machine gun ammunition and a box of various rounds of ammunition.

The suspects are being held for further questioning.

Bomb-making materials uncovered, five detained
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO

KALSU, Iraq – Improvised explosive device-making materials were found in the home of a suspected militia leader and five suspected insurgents were detained in Diwaniyah, Iraq April 20.

Soldiers from a military transition team found the materials and secured the five individuals. The suspects are being held for further questioning.

MND-B Soldiers attacked from mosque; two insurgents killed
Multi-National Division - Baghdad Public Affairs

CAMP LIBERTY, Iraq – Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers came under small arms from a mosque in a southwestern Baghdad neighborhood April 20

Two insurgents were killed in the firefight.

An element from the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division came under attack from small arms fire at approximately 9:45 a.m. The gunshots came from the site of the Husayniayh al-Bayaa Mosque.

Additional Soldiers arrived to assist, cordoning off access roads and securing the area. Aviation support also arrived at the scene of the fighting, but did not engage any targets.

After two insurgents were killed in the incident, Soldiers searched nearby buildings and found chemicals in a house believed to be bomb-making materials. One suspect was detained from the search.

Iraqi Army troops from the 1st Battalion, 1st Regiment, 2nd Iraqi Army Division entered the mosque at approximately 2:30 p.m. No other suspects or weaponry was uncovered from this search. No U.S. troops entered the mosque.

There were no U.S. or coalition casualties taken from this engagement.

CHLORINE TANKS DESTROYED, TERRORISTS KILLED IN RAIDS

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition Forces further disrupted terrorist cells using improvised explosive devices Friday morning when eight terrorists were killed and 41 suspected terrorists were detained during operations around Iraq.

Near Mahmudiyah, Coalition Forces detained eight suspected terrorists. Another raid uncovered a building containing seven tanks of chlorine, which Coalition Forces destroyed.

Seven armed terrorists were killed after they fired upon Coalition Forces entering a building. Forces on the scene detained 15 suspected terrorists who are allegedly tied to al-Qaeda in Iraq.

One armed terrorist was killed when Coalition Forces entered a building in Baghdad to conduct an operation to disrupt the Baghdad vehicle-borne IED network. Six suspected terrorists were detained, and Coalition Forces found VBIED components in the building.

Another operation in Baghdad netted two individuals with suspected ties to the Baghdad IED network. Near Mosul, Coalition Forces detained 10 suspected terrorists in two separate operations to disrupt the al-Qaeda network in northern Iraq.

“Terrorists continue to endanger the Iraqi people and security forces by using explosives, and we will continue to disrupt their networks across the country,” said Lt. Col. Christopher Garver, MNF-I spokesperson.

Cavalry mortarmen help deter attacks
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO
By Sgt. Robert Yde
2nd BCT, 1st Cav. Div. Public Affairs

FORWARD OPERATING BASE ECHO, Iraq – For many months, coalition Soldiers based here had been the recipients of nearly nightly mortar attacks originating from the nearby town of Diwaniyah.

As the security situation in Diwaniyah continued to deteriorate, the Baghdad-based, Stryker unit, 1st Squadron, 14th Cavalry Regiment, attached to the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, was sent here to help out.

After arriving to the FOB, putting a stop to the constant mortar and rocket attacks was a top priority.

“Basically when we first arrived here, the FOB was receiving several mortar and rocket attacks,” explained the commander of 1-14th’s Troop A, Capt. Gerald Resmondo. “We set up a two-front operation. One is the mortars that we have established here on FOB Echo. They conduct a counter-mortar (fire) where they pick outlying locations that are possible locations where mortars or rockets could be fired from.”

The second part of the operation is sending out troops to search out insurgent mortar teams.

“I push out the troop, and we deny the terrain,” explained the West Palm Beach, Fla. native. “We … search any vehicles in those areas, and we will investigate any suspicious activities.”

Back on the FOB, mortar teams continue to fire around the clock to deter attacks on the base and support the Soldiers out in sector.

“We shoot a pretty significant amount,,” Gervais said.

For most of the Soldiers on the mortar teams, this mission is the first chance they have had to fire mortars since arriving in Iraq nearly 10 months ago.

“We don’t get to do this mission in Baghdad, and it’s a nice change of pace to do what we’re actually trained to do,” Gervais said. “When we’re in Baghdad, we just do presence patrols, raids, clearance ops, all that other stuff just like 11Bs (infantrymen) would.”

The Soldiers have established firing points, in case a mission comes down through the fire direction center. Between missions, equipment maintenance and cleaning are performed to ensure everything is working properly and to cut down on the chance of any misfires.

Each fire team is made up of three Soldiers: the gunner, the assistant gunner and the ammo bearer.

While each job is essential, the gunner plays the central role.

“I deal with the elevation, make sure all the levels are right and make sure everything is functional,” explained Spc. Domingo Sanchez, a gunner with Troop C. “The gunner is the main person who makes sure everything is working right and everything is leveled and makes sure the other guys are doing their jobs. So if they’re doing their jobs and I’m doing mine we get the mission done.”

As Sanchez’s ammo bearer, Spc. Anthony Rogers said his main job is to prepare the rounds and get them ready to fire.

“I set the fuses and the time for when they need to burst and the charges for the flight,” Rogers said. Once all the prep work has been done, the process of actually firing the rounds is performed in a matter of seconds.

The mortar teams fire either illumination rounds or high explosive rounds, depending on what each specific mission calls for.

The request for illumination rounds is usually called in from sector at night and according to Resmondo serves two purposes for his troops.

“Once we get eyes on an observer location, we’ll call for illum., initially, just to light up an area and show the enemy that we can do that,” he explained “The second reason is so that we can observe anything that could possibly be out in the open areas.”

This two-front combination of continual mortar fire from the FOB and the Soldiers operating out in the city has seemingly paid off as rocket and mortar attacks on FOB Echo have decreased significantly.

“I think over the last few days we’ve had one rocket attack and it wasn’t very accurate. So it seems to be working,” Gervais said.

Sgt. Jason Chavis, with Troop A, said he believes that the mortar teams have had more of a psychological impact than a physical impact on militia in the area, but noted that the outcome is the same.

“Everybody’s in hiding now,” said Sgt. Jason Chavis, a Pembroke, N.C. native, speaking of the feedback he is hearing from the Soldiers out patrolling Diwaniyah every day. “They said that they’re not coming out and all the shooting and everything else has calmed down.”

As life has improved in the city, it has also improved for the coalition troops based at FOB Echo.

“The situation has definitely improved here on the FOB,” Resmondo said.

School reopens in Ramadi
Multi-National Force – West PAO

AR RAMADI, Iraq - Marking the culmination of a 53-day renovation project, members of the West Central Ramadi District Council and local residents held a grand re-opening ceremony for the Al Warar Boys School here, April 17.

Approximately 100 students, more than a dozen teachers and numerous city leaders were in attendance for the ribbon cutting ceremony of the newly renovated facility. Arif Mokber Sayad, vice president of the WCRDC, and Fadel Khalaf Saleh, provincial director general of education were given the honor of cutting the ribbon for the celebratory occasion.

“Being here and seeing these happy children makes me remember my own childhood,” Sayad said. “Because of the cooperation of the people of Ramadi and the Coalition Forces, we will be able to educate our children properly.”

Approximately 100 Iraqi workers from local neighborhoods were contracted for the renovation, adding four new classrooms, repairing the roof, floors and plumbing, replacing all the doors and windows, installing air conditioning and heating units, and repainting the building.

The improved security in and around Ramadi has made this project and others possible in recent months. The cooperation between tribal leaders, local citizens and the Iraqi Police and Army in the province along with Coalition Forces continues to grow, providing a more solid foundation for future development.

MND-B Soldiers engage insurgents, kill three after discovering IED
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO 1st BCT, 1st Cav. Div. Public Affairs

CAMP TAJI, Iraq – Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers engaged three men involved in improvised explosive device attacks, killing all three near Tarmiyah, Iraq April 18. One U.S. Soldier was wounded in the engagement.

Soldiers from Company D, 2nd Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment were conducting a foot patrol searching for terrorists responsible for IED attacks in the area when the incident occurred.

While on the patrol, the troops came across a man attempting to emplace an IED. The man threw his detonator and ran from the Soldiers. The Soldiers pursued the insurgent to an abandoned house from which objects were thrown at them. Two other men came at the Soldiers from the direction of the house.

One of the insurgents attacked a Soldier. Following hand-to-hand fighting, the insurgent was killed. The Soldier suffered minor injuries.

The other two insurgents, who were carrying an IED, attempted to run but were engaged by 2-8 Cavalry troops. The two insurgents were killed when the gunfire detonated the IED.

The wounded Soldier was treated for minor wounds and was then returned to duty.

There were no other U.S. casualties from the engagement.

COALITION FORCES ELIMINATE POTENTIAL VBIED STOREHOUSE

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition Forces raided a building southeast of Fallujah today where terrorists had been operating and uncovered two dump trucks and materials to make improvised explosive devices.

In addition to the dump trucks, Coalition Forces found twenty 20-pound bags of sodium sulfate and 76 five-gallon drums of nitric acid, materials that are used to make explosives.

The materials were destroyed at the site.

SUSPECTED TERRORISTS DETAINED IN COALITION RAIDS

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition Forces detained 13 suspected terrorists in raids in central Iraq Saturday morning.

Southeast of Baghdad, Coalition Forces detained two individuals with suspected ties to al-Qaeda in Iraq and found grenades and a military-style vest for weapons and ammunition.

Coalition Forces detained 11 suspected terrorists in raids west of Taji in continued efforts to disrupt al-Qaeda in Iraq operations and terrorists who facilitate foreign fighters.

Coalition force members discover cache southeast of Baghdad
Multi-National Division – Center PAO

FORWARD OPERATING BASE HAMMER, Iraq – Iraqi Police and Soldiers from
the 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, discovered a weapons
cache containing 10 – 155mm artillery rounds while on a joint patrol in Jisr Diyala Friday.

Iraqi Police discovered a cache, which also contained 100 – 155mm shell casings, when they identified exposed mortar rounds in a vacant lot.

Soldiers of the 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry, 3rd HBCT, have been conducting
regular patrols with the Iraqi Police company since the onset of the Baghdad
Security Plan.

Iraqi Security Forces Conduct Air-Assault Raid, Detain Suspected Al-Qaeda Leader
Multi-National Corps – Iraq PAO

BAGHDAD – Iraqi Police and military forces conducted an early-morning air-assault operation on April 20 in Nineveh Province, capturing a suspect believed to be involved in insurgent activities.

With Coalition advisors present for support, Iraqi forces raided the village of
Fadiliyah and captured their primary target.

During the operation, Iraqi forces received small-arms fire from their target. They returned fire, neutralizing the threat and wounding the insurgent.

Iraqi forces also detained 46 other suspicious individuals who were present
during the operation.

The primary target of this operation is alleged to be a mid-level member in the al- Qaeda leadership responsible for the flow of foreign fighters in northern Iraq from Syria.

A senior Coalition commander said, “This operation highlights the excellent cooperation of Iraqi Police and military forces in their efforts to bring security to the Iraqi people.”

No Iraqi or Coalition forces were injured during this operation.

Clearing operation Nets Five Weapons Caches in Baghdad’s Mansour district
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO 3rd SBCT, 2nd Inf. Div. Public Affairs Officer

BAGHDAD – Coalition Force members and Iraqi Army troops continued clearing
operations in the Iraqi capital’s Mansour security district, uncovering five weapons caches April 21 during Operation Arrowhead Strike 9.

The weapons and ammunition discovered included one submachine gun, five AK-47 assault rifles with eight full magazines, two pistols with four full magazines, one full can of blasting caps used for improvised explosive devices, two small two-way radios and one sword.

Iraqi Army troops from 1st Battalion, 5th Brigade, 5th Iraqi Army Division, along with U.S. Army Soldiers from the 3rd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division participated in the clearing operation.

15 TERRORISTS KILLED, SEVEN SUSPECTED TERRORISTS DETAINED

BAGHDAD – Coalition Forces killed 15 terrorists and detained seven more individuals suspected of kidnapping, facilitating foreign fighters and working with the al Qaeda in Iraq network Sunday.

Coalition Forces conducted air strikes on a known al Qaeda meeting location south of Baghdad that killed fifteen terrorists. Later in the operation, ground forces killed three terrorists loading a vehicle carrying an anti-aircraft weapon.

The raid also uncovered several weapons caches and a second anti-aircraft machine gun.

Northwest of Taji, Coalition Forces detained an individual suspected of ties to kidnapping operations and al Qaeda in Iraq.

“Fifteen dangerous terrorists are no longer a threat to the Iraqi people or the security of the country,” said Lt. Col. Christopher Garver, MNF-I spokesperson. “Coalition Forces will continue to pursue terrorists wherever they may hide.”

ONE TERRORIST KILLED, 19 SUSPECTS CAPTURED, BOMB-MAKING CACHE FOUND

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition Forces killed one terrorist, detained 19 suspected terrorists and found caches of weapons and chemicals used to make improvised explosive devices during operations Sunday.

An armed terrorist was killed and 19 suspected terrorists were detained when Coalition Forces raided several buildings southeast of Fallujah.

During that raid, Coalition Forces found large amounts of chemicals used to make IEDs, several weapons and bomb-making accessories, including more than 50 pressure plates and a suicide vest. A controlled detonation destroyed the materials on site.

A vehicle found on the scene loaded with explosives was destroyed by an air strike.

“Coalition forces continue to remove dangerous stores of weapons and explosives from the hands of terrorists and the enemies of the people of Iraq," said Lt. Col. Christopher Garver, MNF-I spokesperson. "This represents one more small victory in the war against those that would deny safety and security to the Iraqi people.”

19 TERRORISTS DETAINED IN COALITION RAIDS

BAGHDAD - Coalition Forces detained 19 suspected terrorists associated with facilitating foreign fighters, working with al-Qaeda in Iraq and operating a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device network Monday.

South of Karmah, Coalition Forces captured six suspected foreign fighter facilitators connected to the al-Qaeda in Iraq network.

In Anbar province, nine individuals suspected of working with al-Qaeda in Iraq were detained in three separate Coalition raids.

Coalition Forces detained four suspected terrorists south of Taji for their alleged involvement in a network responsible to making and placing VBIEDs.

“The success of coalition operations continues to disrupt al-Qaeda’s operations in Iraq. These captures help restrict their freedom of movement and reduce the organization’s manpower pool, diminishing their ability to attack innocent civilians as well as Iraqi and Coalition Forces,” said Lt. Col. Christopher Garver, MNF-I spokesperson.

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