Multi-National Corps - Iraq
Public Affairs Office, Camp Victory
APO AE 09342

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
RELEASE No. 20070109-03
Jan. 9, 2007

Multi-National Division - North PAO

BALAD RUZ, Iraq - Combined operations continued south of Balad Ruz with Iraqi army and Coalition Forces clearing areas near Turki Village where CF discovered several large caches containing hundreds of rockets, IED-making materials, small arms munitions and dozens of anti-tank weapons.

In addition, one of the buildings searched included a command and control room, a medical station, a sleeping area and a closet-sized room covered in blood.

The building, which also contained IED-making material, was destroyed by CF.

"This is just another example of the hatred that the terrorists have for the people of Diyala," said Col. David W. Sutherland, 3-1 Cav. commander and senior U.S. Army officer in Diyala.

The 1st Brigade, 5th Iraqi Army, with support from CF from the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, began operations Jan. 4, with a combined air and ground assault and continues to tackle anti-Iraqi forces responsible for attacks on tribes and Iraqi families in the region.

During clearing operations, the Soldiers encountered improvised explosive devices emplaced by the enemy to defend safe havens.

While some Soldiers sustained minor injuries, their resolve to target the enemy was not diminished.

According to Sutherland, one battalion from 1-5 IA scheduled to rotate off the battlefield for refitting demanded they remain with their Coalition counterparts until the fight is complete.

CF identified and killed several AIF responsible for the IED attacks as well as those emplacing future IEDs. Additionally, several suspected terrorists were detained for further questioning.

"This operation demands a force that is able to adapt, and the IA and Task Force 5-73 are doing just that. They are able to be flexible in execution and maintain tempo and the ability to mass on the terrorists as they consolidate and regroup," Sutherland said.


FOR MORE INFORMATION OR HIGH-RES PHOTOS, CONTACT MULTI-NATIONAL DIVISION - NORTH BY E-MAIL AT TFLIGHTNING.PAO-AT-US.ARMY.MIL