United States Marine Corps
Press Release
Public Affairs Office
11th Marine Expeditionary Unit
(Special Operations Capable)
Capt. Carrie C. Batson
Forward Operating Base Duke, Iraq
Contact: batsoncc@11meu.usmc.mil

Release # 0806-04-1228

11th MEU Marines come under enemy fire in Najaf
Aug 2, 2004

FOB DUKE, Iraq, -- Marines from the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) came under small arms, RPG and mortar fire while driving past the An Najaf Maternity Hospital during a peaceful security patrol in the city today.

Marines were patrolling in areas of the city authorized under the cease-fire agreement reached in June between coalition forces and Muqtada Sadr's self-designated Madhi Army, as brokered by the Governor of Najaf, other local civic leaders and the Bayt al-Shia (the informal counsel of senior Shia clerics).

Marines returned well-aimed fire, taking caution to avoid all non-combatants. It is estimated that two Anti-Iraqi Forces were killed during the engagement.

There were no Marines casualties.

11th MEU Marines stand committed with the citizens of the An Najaf province against those who violently oppose a new and democratic Iraq. Let Anti-Iraqi Forces understand the clear message that precise, lethal firepower will be brought to bear upon them when they chose to stand and fight.

The 11th MEU assumed control of the An Najaf and Al Qadisiyah provinces on July 31, and are conducting operations in order to foster a secure and stable environment for the citizens of the two provinces.

* For more information, contact Capt. Carrie C. Batson at batsoncc@11meu.usmc.mil

* Visit the 11th MEU website at www.11meu.usmc.mil or www.usmc.mil/11thmeu


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Text-only version of release attached below:


11th MEU Marines come under small arms fire in Najaf.txt