America's North Shore Journal

A vehicle-borne improvised explosive device detonated in the Iraqi city of Taza in Kirkuk province, killing at least 82 Iraqi civilians and wounding approximately 200, June 20.

Taza Police and Iraqi emergency services responded quickly by securing the area, beginning rescue efforts and transporting the wounded to a local hospital for medical care. Residents from several neighboring villages also arrived to assist in the rescue.

Mayor Talib, the mayor of Taza, arrived at the scene and began coordinating the humanitarian efforts by establishing a shelter for families of the victims inside the mosque grounds where the blankets and water were distributed. Many of the town’s residents, and others from neighboring towns, contributed to the relief efforts.

“Every neighboring village is lending a hand,” said Lt. Col. Andy Shoffner, the commander of 4th Sqdn. 9th Cav. Regt., who arrived on scene shortly after the attack and whose unit provided the assistance.
Soldiers from 4th Squadron, 9th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, assisted by providing humanitarian aid in the form of water and blankets; assisted in controlling traffic; coordinated for light sets to better allow relief workers in finding survivors; and U.S. scout helicopters provided air support.

According to Maj. Ian Palmer, the 4th Sqdn., 9th Cav. Regt. Operations officer, the target was believed to be the town’s mosque, but the bomber instead drove into a residential neighborhood less than one hundred yards from the mosque. The bomb struck shortly after midday prayers.

In compliance with the Security Agreement signed by Iraq and the United States on January 1, 2009, U.S. forces continue to transition to an enabling role in the security of Kirkuk province. .

To inform officials about suspicious behavior involving this or any incident of possible terrorism, call 104 or 345 on a cell phone, from a land-line the number is 650-034.

MNF-I