Experts Investigating Source of Mosul Explosion

By Samantha L. Quigley American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Dec. 21, 2004 -- Explosives experts are investigating the source of a single, large explosion on a U.S. base in southwest Mosul, Iraq, Task Force Olympia Commander Army Brig. Gen. Carter Ham said in a televised statement.

The blast, which occurred just after noon today in a dining facility, killed more than 20 people and wounded more than 60. Those killed and wounded include U.S. military personnel, U.S. contractors, foreign-national contractors and Iraqi soldiers, Ham said. The military is in the process of notifying their families and units.

Ham said the U.S. soldiers responded in a typical manner -- "with bravery, with unselfish caring for one another."

"In the chaos that followed that attack, there was no differentiation by nationality; whether one wore a uniform or civilian clothes, they were all brothers-in-arms taking care of one another," he said. "And I think that's something that all Americans and, indeed, all Iraqis can be very proud of."

While acknowledging the sadness of the day, Ham said the soldiers would come back from this attack and see that the mission is brought to a successful end.

Related Site: Multinational Force Iraq