Coalition Forces Respond to IED Attack, Detain 21

By Pfc. Evan Loyd
2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division Public Affairs Office

FORWARD OPERATING BASE HAMMER, Iraq – Two improvised explosive devices struck a coalition force convoy in Wehida, Iraq, May 2, leading to the capture of 21 detainees.

The 13th Georgian Light Infantry Battalion was en route to Combat Outpost Cleary when the attack occurred. The soldiers immediately secured the area and called for quick reaction force assistance.

Arriving at the scene, the QRF from 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, and 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, secured the area and began casualty evacuation of a wounded soldier and translator.

Continuing on to COP Cleary, the coalition forces received fire from nearby buildings. In response, the troops established a base of fire and started a cordon and search of the area.

During the cordon and search, the coalition forces captured 21 detainees, which led to five pin-point raids and the capture of three persons responsible for the attack on the Georgian patrol.

“We worked with the Georgians as they took the lead,” said Capt. Jimmy Hathaway, from Columbus, Ga., 3rd BCT Georgian army liaison officer.

The 2nd BCT, 1st Armd. Div., from Baumholder, Germany, deployed in support of Operation Iraq Freedom in April.

The 3rd BCT, 3rd Infantry Division, from Fort Benning, Ga., has been deployed in support of OIF since March 2007.