America's North Shore Journal

MNF-I Iraqi Special Operations Forces conducted a raid Oct. 29 in Khadra detaining a suspected al Qaeda in Iraq terrorist network leader and three others. The AQI leader is believed to lead four insurgent groups who are suspected of conducting attacks on Iraqi Security Forces and terrorizing local civilians. Coalition Forces believe he and his network are involved in attacks on Iraqi infrastructure and medical facilities, including the burning of Iraq’s main drug storehouse which provided medicine to sick citizens. Iraqi Special Operations Forces were advised by U.S. Special Forces in the operation to capture the suspected terrorist. During the operation, Iraqi and U.S. Forces came under insurgent fire and responded with proportional return fire. No civilian casualties or damage to property occurred as a result of … Read entire article »

MNF-I Operation Rock Hammer III, a joint Iraqi Security and Coalition Forces operation in southwestern Baqouba, resulted in the discovery of six weapons caches and a bomb-making factory Oct. 28, significantly reducing the enemy’s supply network. “The discovery of these caches continues to limit the terrorists’ ability to conduct acts of disgrace against the population and the security forces,” said Col. David W. Sutherland, commander of Coalition Forces in Diyala Province. “The Iraqi Security Forces, in partnership with my Soldiers, will continue to aggressively and persistently attack the enemy’s perceived safe havens. They are not welcome in Diyala and will not disrupt the progression of the province.” Iraqi Army Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 5th Iraqi Army Division, partnered with Soldiers from Company A, 1st Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment, attached to 3rd … Read entire article »