Iraqi Training Battalion in Al Kasik GRADUATES 212

DDR COURSE GRADUATES 212

BAGHDAD, Iraq – As part of the Iraqi military’s ongoing effort to strengthen its forces, 212 direct recruit replacements graduated from the Iraqi Training Battalion in Al Kasik, Jan. 27.

Recruits spent three weeks in basic military skills refresher with concentration on blocks of instruction in likely mission subjects like traffic control points, local security patrols and fixed-site security.

The soldiers are all being assigned to the Iraqi Army’s 4th Brigade. -30-

NEWS RELEASE HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES CENTRAL COMMAND
7115 South Boundary Boulevard
MacDill AFB, Fla. 33621-5101
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January 27, 2005 Release Number: 05-01-105 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

3rd Marine Aircraft Wing of the I Marine Expeditionary Force

Thirty Marines, 1 Sailor Die in Helicopter Crash

Camp Fallujah, Iraq – Thirty Marines and one Sailor from the 1st Marine Division and the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing of the I Marine Expeditionary Force died early this morning when their CH-53E “Super Stallion” helicopter crashed near Ar Rutbah in the Al Anbar Province while conducting security and stabilization operations.

All Marines, Sailors, Soldiers and Airmen of the I Marine Expeditionary Force mourn the tragic loss of our brothers in arms.

A recovery team is at the crash site, and the cause of the crash is currently under investigation.

The names of the deceased are being withheld pending next of kin notification.

“While we mourn the loss of these heroes, we will honor their sacrifice by continuing our mission to bring democracy to the people of Iraq,” said Lt. Gen. John F. Sattler, commanding general, I Marine Expeditionary Force. “To the families of these brave men, our heartfelt thoughts and prayers go out to you at this most difficult of times.” Release #050126r