Showing posts with label Iraq. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Iraq. Show all posts
Saturday, December 10, 2022
IS Leader Kills Himself During Raid by US Troops in Syria
On Wednesday 7 December 2022,US Special Operations Forces conducted a night raid in Idlib,Northwest Syria,resulting in the death of Islamic State leader Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi,US President Joseph R. Biden announced Thursday morning.Mr.Biden said:
Thanks to the bravery of our troops,this horrible terrorist leader is no more.Knowing that terrorist had chosen to surround himself with families,including children,we made a choice to pursue a Special Forces raid at a much greater risk to our own people rather than targeting him with an airstrike.*
Such missions are in support of Operation Inherent Resolve (OIR),which seeks the lasting defeat of IS.Al-Qurayshi took control of IS when US troops neutralised former IS mastermind Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi in 2019.*
In the course of the approximately two-hour combat operation,up to thirteen people were killed,including civilians as well as militants,according to a Syrian Civil Defence group.The Pentagon is conducting an after-action review of the raid.*
Al-Qurayshi blew himself and his family up with an explosive device when the US SOFs announced their presence outside the multi-family residence.The suicide blast caused the residence's partial destruction.Al-Qurayhsi's deputy and the deputy's wife were on the first floor and were killed by the SOFs when he engaged them in a firefight.No US troops were harmed during the raid.It is believed a few other militants were killed by attack helicopters as the militants approached the compound and were deemed hostile.*
According to the monitoring organisation the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR),since early December,IS has stepped up its activity in areas held by US Ally the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).These activities include the assassination of,and attacks on,SDF members and members of the Autonomous Administration.At least eight IS operations were documented by SOHR activists against SDF members in the Deir Ezzor and al-Hasakah areas that killed three SDF members and wounded six others,including a civilian.There were also clashes in the Deir Ezzor countryside between the SDF and IS cells.The IS cells threaten everyone in the area,SOHR said.*
There are about 900 US troops in Syria,and 2500 in Iraq,serving in support of OIR.Through August 2022,US troops in Iraq and Syria combined had come under 30 indirect-fire attacks-mainly rocket attacks,according to OIR.Several attacks were launched against US troops by Iran-backed militants.*
IS no longer controls territory in Iraq or Syria.It just conducts sporadic attacks with its militant cells.*
Tuesday, July 27, 2021
US Continues Combat Air Role in Afghanistan - plus the future of the Iraq Mission
According to GEN Kenneth McKenzie,US Marine Corps,Commander,US Central Command:
We have increased airstrikes against the Taliban in support of Afghan forces over the past several days,and we are prepared to continue this heightened support in the coming weeks if the Taliban continue their attacks.Taliban victory is not inevitable.*
In addition,the US will continue giving the Afghan Air Force logistical support following the withdrawal of all US and foreign forces as of 31 August 2021.*
Meanwhile,about 900 US troops,including some in Infantry Figthing Vehicles, continue to support Operation Inherent Resolve against Islamic State militants in Syria.With regard to Iraq,US President Joseph R. Biden received Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa Al-Kadhimi at the White House yesterday.The two leaders discussed the ongoing strategic dialogue between the two countries,which includes health care;climate change;energy;strengthening Iraqi democracy;and security cooperation-especially our shared fight against ISIS (another word for Islamic State) and our counterterrorism effort.*
President Biden noted that:
Today our relations are stronger than ever.I think things are going well.Our troops will continue to train,to assist,to help,and to deal with ISIS as it arises.*
Mr.Biden announced that the 2500 US troops in Iraq will no longer be in a combat role after the end of 2021,however.Indeed,it has been some time since they exercised such a function.NATO has a separate training mission in Iraq as well.*
The Iraqi Security Forces still need more training.What is more,they need the intelligence support that the US troops provide through their presence in Iraq,observed CNN correspondent Arwa Damon.*
Tuesday, May 5, 2020
Operation Inherent Resolve:RAF Pounds IS in Iraq as Green Berets Patrol Northern Syria
The war on Islamic State continues unabated in Iraq, Syria and elsewhere, despite the global pandemic coalition forces are also dealing with.This has been made clear as Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve (CJTF-OIR) conducted various operations in recent days.
On 28 April 2020,two RAF Eurofighter Typhoon fighters, flying out of RAF Arotiri, Cyprus,staged a night raid on an IS stronghold in the Hamrin Mountains of Northern Iraq.They acted when military intelligence revealed the militants were hiding in the warren of caves and tunnels they maintain in the rugged mountainous terrain Northeast of Bayji,Iraq.The Typhoons successfully delivered their Pavehawk IV guided munitions on their targets, the British Ministry of Defence announced.Defence Minister Ben Wallace noted that:
The Daesh (another name for IS) threat is relentless and so will we be.*
Also participating in the raid were a Voyager refueling tanker plane and other unidentified OIR aircraft. The Hamrin Mountains are used by IS to smuggle weapons; facilitate senior leader movements; and plot terrorist attacks in the region,CJTF-OIR stated.Daesh senior leaders and their operatives have used the mountains as one of their last operating areas in Iraq.*
Following the raid,Iraqi Security Forces found IS documents; electronic devices; and fragments of weapons and other gear in the caves, some of which were rendered inaccessible.Initial estimates show that 5-10 militants were killed.Follow on searches continue.*
The next day,29 April 2020, the MaT partner forces and US Army Special Forces (Green Berets) conducted a joint patrol in the At Tanf,Syria area to continue the mission to defeat remaining elements of Daesh and set conditions for their lasting defeat, the Global Coalition said, adding that:
While the terrorist group no longer occupies territory in Iraq and Syria,it remains a threat there and elsewhere.
The Global Coalition will continue its comprehensive efforts in Iraq and Syria, and globally, to deny ISIS's (another name for IS) ambitions and the activities of its branches and networks, until the job is done.*
On 16 April, the Political Directors of the Global Coalition Defeat Daesh/ISIS Small Group had met, agreeing to maintain maximum pressure on Daesh/ISIS despite the several and multifaceted challenges, including those posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.*
On 28 April 2020,two RAF Eurofighter Typhoon fighters, flying out of RAF Arotiri, Cyprus,staged a night raid on an IS stronghold in the Hamrin Mountains of Northern Iraq.They acted when military intelligence revealed the militants were hiding in the warren of caves and tunnels they maintain in the rugged mountainous terrain Northeast of Bayji,Iraq.The Typhoons successfully delivered their Pavehawk IV guided munitions on their targets, the British Ministry of Defence announced.Defence Minister Ben Wallace noted that:
The Daesh (another name for IS) threat is relentless and so will we be.*
Also participating in the raid were a Voyager refueling tanker plane and other unidentified OIR aircraft. The Hamrin Mountains are used by IS to smuggle weapons; facilitate senior leader movements; and plot terrorist attacks in the region,CJTF-OIR stated.Daesh senior leaders and their operatives have used the mountains as one of their last operating areas in Iraq.*
Following the raid,Iraqi Security Forces found IS documents; electronic devices; and fragments of weapons and other gear in the caves, some of which were rendered inaccessible.Initial estimates show that 5-10 militants were killed.Follow on searches continue.*
The next day,29 April 2020, the MaT partner forces and US Army Special Forces (Green Berets) conducted a joint patrol in the At Tanf,Syria area to continue the mission to defeat remaining elements of Daesh and set conditions for their lasting defeat, the Global Coalition said, adding that:
While the terrorist group no longer occupies territory in Iraq and Syria,it remains a threat there and elsewhere.
The Global Coalition will continue its comprehensive efforts in Iraq and Syria, and globally, to deny ISIS's (another name for IS) ambitions and the activities of its branches and networks, until the job is done.*
On 16 April, the Political Directors of the Global Coalition Defeat Daesh/ISIS Small Group had met, agreeing to maintain maximum pressure on Daesh/ISIS despite the several and multifaceted challenges, including those posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.*
Thursday, March 12, 2020
Iraq:British Soldier Killed in Action Identified
The British Soldier killed during an Iran-backed militia attack on Camp Taji,Iraq has been identified by the Ministry of Defence as LCPL Brodie Gillon.She was a reservist member of the Scottish and North Irish Yeomanry.*
In civilian life,LCPL Gillon was a self-employed sports physiotherapist.She had joined the regiment in 2015 as a Combat Medical Technician (CMT),and qualified as a Class I CMT in 2018.*
LCPL Gillon had volunteered to serve in Iraq.She was highly regarded both within the Regiment and beyond.*
In civilian life,LCPL Gillon was a self-employed sports physiotherapist.She had joined the regiment in 2015 as a Combat Medical Technician (CMT),and qualified as a Class I CMT in 2018.*
LCPL Gillon had volunteered to serve in Iraq.She was highly regarded both within the Regiment and beyond.*
US,British Troops Killed in Rocket Attack on Coalition Base - Updated
Two US troops, reportedly a US Army Soldier and a US Air Force Airman,as well as a British service member, were killed in a rocket attack on the Operation Inherent Resolve base Camp Taji,Iraq on 11 March 2020, several official sources reported.Twelve other Coalition members were wounded.Identities are being withheld pending family notification.*
Camp Taji hosts Coalition personnel for their train, advise and assist mission to the Iraqi Security Forces.The base was hit by about 18 107mm Katyusha rockets.The ISF located an abandoned rocket launcher truck a few miles from Camp Taji.*
Subsequently the monitoring group Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said an airstrike by unidentified aircraft hit Iranian-backed militia bases in the al-Hasyan area of Syria near the Iraqi border, killing 26 militia members and wounding more than 15 others.Apparently this was a retaliatory strike.Both US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and British Prime Minister Boris Johnson had promised to hold those responsible for the rocket attack to account.*
Update:The US says it launched airstrikes on five bases containing advanced Iranian weapons such as Katyusha rockets.The bases belong to the Iranian-backed militia Kitaib Hezbollah,which US CENTCOM commander Kenneth "Frank" McKenzie,USMC,notes is the only militia that has attacked Coalition bases with such weaponry.At the same time,the US denies that it participated in the airstrikes reported by the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.
Possibly Israel carried out those strikes.*
Most likely the rocket attack by Iranian proxies in the region is a continuation of Iran's hostility to the West in general, and the United States in particular, which flared up in 2019 with similar attacks on OIR bases that killed an American contractor.In response, the US carried out an airstrike that killed Major General Qasem Soleimani of Iran's Revolutionary Guard.*
Camp Taji hosts Coalition personnel for their train, advise and assist mission to the Iraqi Security Forces.The base was hit by about 18 107mm Katyusha rockets.The ISF located an abandoned rocket launcher truck a few miles from Camp Taji.*
Subsequently the monitoring group Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said an airstrike by unidentified aircraft hit Iranian-backed militia bases in the al-Hasyan area of Syria near the Iraqi border, killing 26 militia members and wounding more than 15 others.Apparently this was a retaliatory strike.Both US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and British Prime Minister Boris Johnson had promised to hold those responsible for the rocket attack to account.*
Update:The US says it launched airstrikes on five bases containing advanced Iranian weapons such as Katyusha rockets.The bases belong to the Iranian-backed militia Kitaib Hezbollah,which US CENTCOM commander Kenneth "Frank" McKenzie,USMC,notes is the only militia that has attacked Coalition bases with such weaponry.At the same time,the US denies that it participated in the airstrikes reported by the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.
Possibly Israel carried out those strikes.*
Most likely the rocket attack by Iranian proxies in the region is a continuation of Iran's hostility to the West in general, and the United States in particular, which flared up in 2019 with similar attacks on OIR bases that killed an American contractor.In response, the US carried out an airstrike that killed Major General Qasem Soleimani of Iran's Revolutionary Guard.*
Tuesday, March 10, 2020
Operation Inherent Resolve:Two Marines Die in Iraq Battle
On 8 March 2020,two US Marines died in combat against Islamic State forces in the mountains of Northcentral Iraq.They were accompanying and assisting Iraqi Security Forces on an air assault mission in the Southern Makhmur Mountains to evict the IS militants from a well-fortified cave complex.
In the course of the raid,a fierce firefight ensued at close range.Killed in the battle were CAPT Moises A. Navas,34,of Germantown, Maryland and GYSGT Diego D. Pongo,34,of Simi Valley, California.They were members of 2nd Marine Raider Battalion, Marine Corps Special Operations Command, out of Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.
About 12 US Marines accompanied several dozen Iraqi counterterrorism troops in the attempt to evict IS from the caves.Besides the USMC deaths, three other Marines were wounded along with another Coalition member, while 17-19 IS militants were killed.*
Gunney Pongo had served heroically in Helmand Province, Afghanistan in 2013, receiving a Bronze Star Medal with Combat Distinguishing Device.He is survived by his daughter and mother.CAPT Navas,a native of Panama,had served in Japan and was awarded the Joint Service Commendation Medal and National Defense Service Medal.He leaves behind his wife and three daughters.*
They are the first American troops killed in action in Iraq this year.*
Thou shalt seek them,and shalt not find them, even them that contend with thee: they that war with thee shall be as nothing, and as a thing of nought.
- Isaiah 41:12
In the course of the raid,a fierce firefight ensued at close range.Killed in the battle were CAPT Moises A. Navas,34,of Germantown, Maryland and GYSGT Diego D. Pongo,34,of Simi Valley, California.They were members of 2nd Marine Raider Battalion, Marine Corps Special Operations Command, out of Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.
About 12 US Marines accompanied several dozen Iraqi counterterrorism troops in the attempt to evict IS from the caves.Besides the USMC deaths, three other Marines were wounded along with another Coalition member, while 17-19 IS militants were killed.*
Gunney Pongo had served heroically in Helmand Province, Afghanistan in 2013, receiving a Bronze Star Medal with Combat Distinguishing Device.He is survived by his daughter and mother.CAPT Navas,a native of Panama,had served in Japan and was awarded the Joint Service Commendation Medal and National Defense Service Medal.He leaves behind his wife and three daughters.*
They are the first American troops killed in action in Iraq this year.*
Thou shalt seek them,and shalt not find them, even them that contend with thee: they that war with thee shall be as nothing, and as a thing of nought.
- Isaiah 41:12
Tuesday, January 28, 2020
Operation Inherent Resolve:US Combat Operations in Syria Resume
Following a sequestration of troops for force protection during the Iran crisis,US service members are once again conducting combat operations against Islamic State remnants in Syria alongside their longtime Syrian Kurd allies in the Syrian Democratic Forces.According to US CENTCOM commander GEN Kenneth "Frank" McKenzie,Jr.,US Marine Corps,who spoke to journalists from the Associated Press and The Washington Post while touring five US bases in the Eastern Security Zone,the two close members of Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve are now conducting up to 3-4 operations a week.The US outposts GEN McKenzie visited house a total of around 750 US troops and are scattered across a swath of ESZ territory running from Deir-el-Zour in the Northeast to the Euphrates River Valley and the Iraqi border east of al-Hassakeh.The names and exact locations of many of the bases are classified.
GEN McKenzie told the journalists:
I frankly don't know how long we're going to be here.And I have no instructions other than to continue to work with our partners here.Now we're firmly focused on the lasting defeat of ISIS (another name for Islamic State).*
Accompanying GEN McKenzie was MG Eric Hill,US Air Force,commander of Special Operations Forces in Iraq and Syria.He said his troops are training and conducting operations with the Syrian Democratic Forces to shut down IS,who are hiding in valleys,caves and deserts,where they attempt to regroup following their defeat at the hands of CJTF-OIR in their former capital of Raqqa,Syria.*
Another 5,000 US troops are across the border in Iraq on a train,advise and assist mission with the Iraqi Security Forces,who are engaged in their own battle with IS remnants in Iraq.Many of the IS militants are located in Anbar Province in Western Iraq.
NATO also has a training mission underway in Iraq.*
GEN McKenzie told the journalists:
I frankly don't know how long we're going to be here.And I have no instructions other than to continue to work with our partners here.Now we're firmly focused on the lasting defeat of ISIS (another name for Islamic State).*
Accompanying GEN McKenzie was MG Eric Hill,US Air Force,commander of Special Operations Forces in Iraq and Syria.He said his troops are training and conducting operations with the Syrian Democratic Forces to shut down IS,who are hiding in valleys,caves and deserts,where they attempt to regroup following their defeat at the hands of CJTF-OIR in their former capital of Raqqa,Syria.*
Another 5,000 US troops are across the border in Iraq on a train,advise and assist mission with the Iraqi Security Forces,who are engaged in their own battle with IS remnants in Iraq.Many of the IS militants are located in Anbar Province in Western Iraq.
NATO also has a training mission underway in Iraq.*
Monday, August 12, 2019
Operation Inherent Resolve:US Marine Corps SOF Member Killed in Action in Iraq
On 10 August 2019,GYSGT Scott A. Koppenhafer,35,of Mancos,Colorado was killed in action in Iraq when he was engaged by enemy small arms fire,the Pentagon said.The battle is being investigated.
GYSGT Koppenhafer was a member of 2nd Marine Raider Battalion,MARSOC,out of Camp Lejeune,North Carolina.He had pulled four tours in his MARSOC career,including one in Afghanistan,where he was meritoriously promoted to Staff Sergeant,as well as Iraq.*
According to US CENTCOM,Gunny Koppenhafer was killed while on a joint mission with the Iraqi Security Forces in Nineveh Province,Northern Iraq.He was serving as an advisor to the Iraqi Security Forces as they attempt to dislodge remnants of the Islamic State in Northern Iraq.
GYSGT Koppenhafer had been decorated with the Bronze Star Medal with Combat Distinguishing Device (2);the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with Combat Distinguishing Device (2);the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (2);and the Combat Action Ribbon (2).*
The revered special operator was the third US service member to be killed in action in Operation Inherent Resolve this year.About 5,000 US troops are currently deployed to Iraq with OIR in a train,advise and assist mission.In 2018,Gunny Koppenhafer was named the 2018 Marine Special Operator of the Year for his masterful leadership that directly contributed to the defeat of Islamic State forces in Northern Iraq.He is survived by his wife and two children.*
"Nevertheless I am continually with thee:thou hast holden me by my right hand.
Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel,and afterword receive me to glory."
-Psalm 73:23-24
GYSGT Koppenhafer was a member of 2nd Marine Raider Battalion,MARSOC,out of Camp Lejeune,North Carolina.He had pulled four tours in his MARSOC career,including one in Afghanistan,where he was meritoriously promoted to Staff Sergeant,as well as Iraq.*
According to US CENTCOM,Gunny Koppenhafer was killed while on a joint mission with the Iraqi Security Forces in Nineveh Province,Northern Iraq.He was serving as an advisor to the Iraqi Security Forces as they attempt to dislodge remnants of the Islamic State in Northern Iraq.
GYSGT Koppenhafer had been decorated with the Bronze Star Medal with Combat Distinguishing Device (2);the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with Combat Distinguishing Device (2);the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (2);and the Combat Action Ribbon (2).*
The revered special operator was the third US service member to be killed in action in Operation Inherent Resolve this year.About 5,000 US troops are currently deployed to Iraq with OIR in a train,advise and assist mission.In 2018,Gunny Koppenhafer was named the 2018 Marine Special Operator of the Year for his masterful leadership that directly contributed to the defeat of Islamic State forces in Northern Iraq.He is survived by his wife and two children.*
"Nevertheless I am continually with thee:thou hast holden me by my right hand.
Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel,and afterword receive me to glory."
-Psalm 73:23-24
Sunday, March 24, 2019
Pentagon Identifies US Soldiers Killed in Action
The Pentagon has released the names of two US Army troops NATO said were killed by small arms fire in Afghanistan.They are SFC Will D. Lindsay,33,of Cortez, Colorado and SPC Joseph P. Collette,29, of Lancaster, Ohio.
Pentagon sources said they were on a joint Operation with Afghan National Defence and Security Forces in Kunduz Province, Northern Afghanistan,a site of periodic assaults by Taliban militants.*
An Afghan source reported that Coalition aircraft provided close air support during the battle.*
SFC Lindsay was a member of the 2nd Battalion,10th Special Forces Group (Airborne). SPC Collette was a member of the 71st Explosive Ordnance Group,242nd Ordnance Battalion, and was assigned to a Special Forces unit.
SFC Lindsay had pulled five tours in Iraq, plus tours in Tajikistan and Afghanistan, where he was supporting the counter-terror Operation Freedom's Sentinel.His decorations include the Purple Heart Medal; Bronze Star Medal;and Valorous Unit Award.He was married and the father of four daughters.*
ANDSF members were reportedly also killed during the operation.*
For I am persuaded, that neither death,nor life,nor angels,nor principalities,nor powers,nor things present,nor things to come,
Nor height,nor depth,nor any creature,shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
-Romans 8:38-39
Pentagon sources said they were on a joint Operation with Afghan National Defence and Security Forces in Kunduz Province, Northern Afghanistan,a site of periodic assaults by Taliban militants.*
An Afghan source reported that Coalition aircraft provided close air support during the battle.*
SFC Lindsay was a member of the 2nd Battalion,10th Special Forces Group (Airborne). SPC Collette was a member of the 71st Explosive Ordnance Group,242nd Ordnance Battalion, and was assigned to a Special Forces unit.
SFC Lindsay had pulled five tours in Iraq, plus tours in Tajikistan and Afghanistan, where he was supporting the counter-terror Operation Freedom's Sentinel.His decorations include the Purple Heart Medal; Bronze Star Medal;and Valorous Unit Award.He was married and the father of four daughters.*
ANDSF members were reportedly also killed during the operation.*
For I am persuaded, that neither death,nor life,nor angels,nor principalities,nor powers,nor things present,nor things to come,
Nor height,nor depth,nor any creature,shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
-Romans 8:38-39
Tuesday, February 26, 2019
Marine Expeditionary Unit Key in Recent Combat vs. IS
The 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit played a major role in recent strikes against Islamic State targets in Iraq and Syria.Particularly impressive was the air combat element provided by the F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighters of Fighter Attack Squadron (VFMA) 211, the Avengers. Their effort was characterised by 13th MEU Commander COL Candler Nelms as being:
A considerable portion of the ordnance that was dropped in theatre... They were active and did very well... But there's no breaking point with these guys;they just crushed it.*
The Avengers were flying off the amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) as part of the Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ARG). The ARG's deployment has taken it to the Indo-Pacific and into the Middle East, with the Avengers flying their first combat missions in close air support in Afghanistan in September 2018.
They then moved on to missions in Syria and Iraq, providing close air support and defensive counter air as a precaution, what with Russian aircraft being active in Syria.There were no incidents with the Russians.
The Avengers flew twice the amount of flight hours a Harrier squadron could have, according to COL Nelms.*
Other MEU assets used included the CH-53E Super Stallion heavy-lift helicopter for airlift in Iraq, and a battery of M777 howitzers deployed to Syria.*
COL Nelms explained that:
When combined with inherent capabilities of the 13th MEU and Essex ARG, the F-35B strengthens the amphibious force through new and increased multi-mission capabilities, making our team a more lethal and survivable crisis response force.*
The ARG, for its part,consists of:
Amphibious transport dock USS Anchorage (LPD 23);
And Amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47);
in addition, the Blackjacks of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 21;
Detachments from Assault Craft Unit 5;
Naval Beach Group 1;
Beachmaster Unit 1;
Fleet Surgical Team 3;
Tactical Air Control Squadron 11 and other assets.*
Within the MEU are the command element; aviation combat element; ground combat element; and logistics combat element.*
Operation Inherent Resolve continues as the Syrian Democratic Forces destroy the last IS urban stronghold in Baghouz, Syria, backed by Coalition partners.
A considerable portion of the ordnance that was dropped in theatre... They were active and did very well... But there's no breaking point with these guys;they just crushed it.*
The Avengers were flying off the amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) as part of the Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ARG). The ARG's deployment has taken it to the Indo-Pacific and into the Middle East, with the Avengers flying their first combat missions in close air support in Afghanistan in September 2018.
They then moved on to missions in Syria and Iraq, providing close air support and defensive counter air as a precaution, what with Russian aircraft being active in Syria.There were no incidents with the Russians.
The Avengers flew twice the amount of flight hours a Harrier squadron could have, according to COL Nelms.*
Other MEU assets used included the CH-53E Super Stallion heavy-lift helicopter for airlift in Iraq, and a battery of M777 howitzers deployed to Syria.*
COL Nelms explained that:
When combined with inherent capabilities of the 13th MEU and Essex ARG, the F-35B strengthens the amphibious force through new and increased multi-mission capabilities, making our team a more lethal and survivable crisis response force.*
The ARG, for its part,consists of:
Amphibious transport dock USS Anchorage (LPD 23);
And Amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47);
in addition, the Blackjacks of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 21;
Detachments from Assault Craft Unit 5;
Naval Beach Group 1;
Beachmaster Unit 1;
Fleet Surgical Team 3;
Tactical Air Control Squadron 11 and other assets.*
Within the MEU are the command element; aviation combat element; ground combat element; and logistics combat element.*
Operation Inherent Resolve continues as the Syrian Democratic Forces destroy the last IS urban stronghold in Baghouz, Syria, backed by Coalition partners.
Tuesday, February 5, 2019
New Pentagon Report Paints Stark Picture of Islamic State Reality
The 16th Lead Inspector General for Operation Inherent Resolve's report to the US Congress blows away political aspirations with cold on the ground facts.Based on a Pentagon official's inquiries to US CENTCOM and Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve officials, the report notes that:
The effort to defeat ISIS (another name for Islamic State) continues as ISIS remains a potent force of battle-hardened and well-disciplined fighters that 'could likely resurge in Syria' absent continued counterterrorism pressure.
US CENTCOM officials believe that:
ISIS is regenerating key functions and capabilities more quickly in Iraq than in Syria, and "absent sustained pressure,ISIS could likely resurge in Syria within six to twelve months and regain limited territory."*
What is more:
ISIS remains active in rural Iraq and continues to conduct attacks, assassinations,and to resort to robbery and money laundering to raise funds.
*
The IG's report covers the period from 1 October 2018 to 31 December 2018.According to the report:
ISIS is still able to coordinate offensives and counter-offensives,as well as operate as a decentralized insurgency.
In Iraq, the Iraqi Security Forces are still reliant on the United States and Coalition support.*
As for the Syrian Democratic Forces,CJTF-OIR said Coalition support is 'vital to the SDF's ability to defeat ISIS in the Middle Euphrates River Valley.'
Iraq's problems include lack of a tasking system for Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance assets and vetting procedures for HUMINT.Even trained ISF units have shortfalls in command and control; leadership; physical resilience; and ability to execute basic minor infantry tactics, the IG's report indicates.
The effort to defeat ISIS (another name for Islamic State) continues as ISIS remains a potent force of battle-hardened and well-disciplined fighters that 'could likely resurge in Syria' absent continued counterterrorism pressure.
US CENTCOM officials believe that:
ISIS is regenerating key functions and capabilities more quickly in Iraq than in Syria, and "absent sustained pressure,ISIS could likely resurge in Syria within six to twelve months and regain limited territory."*
What is more:
ISIS remains active in rural Iraq and continues to conduct attacks, assassinations,and to resort to robbery and money laundering to raise funds.
*
The IG's report covers the period from 1 October 2018 to 31 December 2018.According to the report:
ISIS is still able to coordinate offensives and counter-offensives,as well as operate as a decentralized insurgency.
In Iraq, the Iraqi Security Forces are still reliant on the United States and Coalition support.*
As for the Syrian Democratic Forces,CJTF-OIR said Coalition support is 'vital to the SDF's ability to defeat ISIS in the Middle Euphrates River Valley.'
Iraq's problems include lack of a tasking system for Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance assets and vetting procedures for HUMINT.Even trained ISF units have shortfalls in command and control; leadership; physical resilience; and ability to execute basic minor infantry tactics, the IG's report indicates.
Wednesday, December 26, 2018
Tuesday, July 24, 2018
Iraq and Syria:Operation Inherent Resolve Intensifies Effort to Disrupt Militant Plans - lines of communication
While their countrymen lay asleep,from 16-22 July 2018,Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve redoubled its campaign against Islamic State in Iraq,Syria and the Levant extremists.The international partners pulverised the takfiri terrorists with 24 strikes spread out over 40 engagements in Iraq and Syria.
Among the strikes in Syria were:
on 21 July,the Task Force engaged an ISIL tactical unit near Abu Kamal,destroying 3 vehicles and a line of communication;
on 19 July,there were 4 strikes near Abu Kamal,engaging an ISIL tactical unit and leveling 2 logistics hubs and 2 lines of communication;
On 18 July,there were again 4 strikes near Abu Kamal,engaging an ISIL tactical unit,destroying 2 vehicles and 3 lines of communication;
on 17 July,near Soor,a strike engaged an ISIL tactical unit,destroying 2 motorcycles.
In Iraq:
on 20 July,the Task Force struck targets near Sulayman Bek,engaging a tactical unit and destroying 2 vehicles and a cave;
on 17 July,again near Sulaymen Bek,the Task Force engaged an ISIL tactical unit,wiping out a VBIED and 2 fighting positions;
on 16 July,near Makhmour,9 strikes destroyed 14 ISIL caves;5 tunnels;and 4 buildings.*
The strikes were carried out by fighter;bomber;rotary-wing or remotely-piloted aircraft;rocket-propelled artillery;and ground-based tactical artillery.No further details were disclosed.*
Earlier,from 24 Apil to 26 June 2018,CJTFOIR neutralised 6 ISIL leaders and planners.This campaign of kinetic strikes stifled the Islamist extremist militants' attack planning,facilitation and operations conceived against Saudi Arabia;the US;and Sweden.Killed were:
on 24 April,Munnawar al-Mutayari,a Syria-based militant plotting external attacks on Saudi Arabia;
on 2 June,Soufiane Makouh of Belgium,plotting in Syria against the US and its interests;
on 12 June,Simak,who was plotting attacks in Sweden,and his associates Abu Awf;Abu Quddamah;and Sharif al-Ragub ( killed on 26 June).
The strikes were to disrupt ISIL's ability to plan,coordinate,and carry out attacks,CJTFOIR said.*
A line of communication is a route from a supply base to an operating base for supplies or reinforcements.A military operation cannot succeed without effective lines of communication.
Among the strikes in Syria were:
on 21 July,the Task Force engaged an ISIL tactical unit near Abu Kamal,destroying 3 vehicles and a line of communication;
on 19 July,there were 4 strikes near Abu Kamal,engaging an ISIL tactical unit and leveling 2 logistics hubs and 2 lines of communication;
On 18 July,there were again 4 strikes near Abu Kamal,engaging an ISIL tactical unit,destroying 2 vehicles and 3 lines of communication;
on 17 July,near Soor,a strike engaged an ISIL tactical unit,destroying 2 motorcycles.
In Iraq:
on 20 July,the Task Force struck targets near Sulayman Bek,engaging a tactical unit and destroying 2 vehicles and a cave;
on 17 July,again near Sulaymen Bek,the Task Force engaged an ISIL tactical unit,wiping out a VBIED and 2 fighting positions;
on 16 July,near Makhmour,9 strikes destroyed 14 ISIL caves;5 tunnels;and 4 buildings.*
The strikes were carried out by fighter;bomber;rotary-wing or remotely-piloted aircraft;rocket-propelled artillery;and ground-based tactical artillery.No further details were disclosed.*
Earlier,from 24 Apil to 26 June 2018,CJTFOIR neutralised 6 ISIL leaders and planners.This campaign of kinetic strikes stifled the Islamist extremist militants' attack planning,facilitation and operations conceived against Saudi Arabia;the US;and Sweden.Killed were:
on 24 April,Munnawar al-Mutayari,a Syria-based militant plotting external attacks on Saudi Arabia;
on 2 June,Soufiane Makouh of Belgium,plotting in Syria against the US and its interests;
on 12 June,Simak,who was plotting attacks in Sweden,and his associates Abu Awf;Abu Quddamah;and Sharif al-Ragub ( killed on 26 June).
The strikes were to disrupt ISIL's ability to plan,coordinate,and carry out attacks,CJTFOIR said.*
A line of communication is a route from a supply base to an operating base for supplies or reinforcements.A military operation cannot succeed without effective lines of communication.
Tuesday, May 15, 2018
Operation Inherent Resolve:Euphrates River Valley
By 8 May 2018,the Syrian Democratic Forces,assisted by Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve,had resumed their offensive operations to clear the final Daesh territories in Eastern Syria,according to MGEN Felix Gedney,British Army,Deputy Commander of CJTF-OIR.This manifested as SDF moving to secure the Syrian-Iraqi border by eliminating Daesh resistance and establishing defensive posts in coordination with the Iraqi Security Forces,who are operating on the other side of the border.*
Daesh is the Arabic word for the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant.*
At the same time,from 4-10 May,CJTF-OIR conducted 53 strikes consisting of 63 engagements against Daesh.For example,in Syria:
On 10 May,a strike destroyed an ISIL artillery piece near Dayr Az Zawr;
on 9 May,near Shadaddi,a strike destroyed an ISIL VBIED factory;and,near Dayz Az Zawr,a strike destroyed an ISIL IED belt.
In Iraq:
On 7 May,near Kisik,coalition military forces conducted a strike destroying 3 ISIL tunnels and a weapons cache;
On 5 May,near Mosul,two strikes destroyed 7 ISIL tunnel systems;near Makhmur,a strike destroyed an ISIL cave.*
Strikes are conducted by fighter,attack,bomber,rotary-wing or remotely piloted aircraft;rocket-propelled artillery;and ground-based artillery.*
As of now,ground operations by the SDF,coupled with intelligence,surveillance and fire support provided by CJTF-OIR,are having a devastating effect as SDF continues to liberate lands held by Daesh terrorists.Fighter jets from France are providing precision fires to crush the last of Daesh's fake caliphate.As we have proven many,many times over the course of this campaign,CJTF-OIR will relentlessly pursue ISIS (another name for ISIL) wherever they are,until we have destroyed all of ISIS' geographic holdings,MGEN Gedney tweeted.
Daesh is the Arabic word for the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant.*
At the same time,from 4-10 May,CJTF-OIR conducted 53 strikes consisting of 63 engagements against Daesh.For example,in Syria:
On 10 May,a strike destroyed an ISIL artillery piece near Dayr Az Zawr;
on 9 May,near Shadaddi,a strike destroyed an ISIL VBIED factory;and,near Dayz Az Zawr,a strike destroyed an ISIL IED belt.
In Iraq:
On 7 May,near Kisik,coalition military forces conducted a strike destroying 3 ISIL tunnels and a weapons cache;
On 5 May,near Mosul,two strikes destroyed 7 ISIL tunnel systems;near Makhmur,a strike destroyed an ISIL cave.*
Strikes are conducted by fighter,attack,bomber,rotary-wing or remotely piloted aircraft;rocket-propelled artillery;and ground-based artillery.*
As of now,ground operations by the SDF,coupled with intelligence,surveillance and fire support provided by CJTF-OIR,are having a devastating effect as SDF continues to liberate lands held by Daesh terrorists.Fighter jets from France are providing precision fires to crush the last of Daesh's fake caliphate.As we have proven many,many times over the course of this campaign,CJTF-OIR will relentlessly pursue ISIS (another name for ISIL) wherever they are,until we have destroyed all of ISIS' geographic holdings,MGEN Gedney tweeted.
Tuesday, April 3, 2018
B-1 Bombers Arrive Back in CENTCOM AOR - plus more on MSGT Johnathan Dunbar
The B-1B Lancer bomber has arrived back at Al Udeid Air Base,Qatar,to resume strategic bombing missions after two years during which the B-52H Stratofortress had served in that role.The number of B-1s involved was not disclosed.
Airmen had been training intensely for several months for the CENTCOM precision strike missions at Ellsworth Air Force Base,South Dakota.They are rejoining Operation Inherent Resolve in Iraq and Syria,and Operation Freedom's Sentinel in Afghanistan.*
The US Soldier recently killed in action in Northern Syria,Master Sergeant Johnathan J. Dunbar of Austin,Texas,had served three tours in Iraq and three in Afghanistan.He was awarded three Bronze Star Medals,which are given for heroic or exceptionally meritorious service in a battle zone.The Bronze Star ranks just above the Purple Heart.*
He was described as being a member of Headquarters,US Army Special Operations Command in Fort Bragg,North Carolina-a designation which often implies being a member of the elite Delta Force.*
MSGT Dunbar had earned a Ranger Tab,which does not necessarily mean he actually served in the 75th Ranger Regiment.It does mean he graduated from Ranger School,signifying a high degree of expertise in small unit combat tactics.
He also had completed the Special Forces Sniper Course,and was awarded six Army Achievement Medals,as well as four Army Commendation Medals.
Certain US Airmen,Marines and Canadian Forces members have also earned the Ranger Tab.
Airmen had been training intensely for several months for the CENTCOM precision strike missions at Ellsworth Air Force Base,South Dakota.They are rejoining Operation Inherent Resolve in Iraq and Syria,and Operation Freedom's Sentinel in Afghanistan.*
The US Soldier recently killed in action in Northern Syria,Master Sergeant Johnathan J. Dunbar of Austin,Texas,had served three tours in Iraq and three in Afghanistan.He was awarded three Bronze Star Medals,which are given for heroic or exceptionally meritorious service in a battle zone.The Bronze Star ranks just above the Purple Heart.*
He was described as being a member of Headquarters,US Army Special Operations Command in Fort Bragg,North Carolina-a designation which often implies being a member of the elite Delta Force.*
MSGT Dunbar had earned a Ranger Tab,which does not necessarily mean he actually served in the 75th Ranger Regiment.It does mean he graduated from Ranger School,signifying a high degree of expertise in small unit combat tactics.
He also had completed the Special Forces Sniper Course,and was awarded six Army Achievement Medals,as well as four Army Commendation Medals.
Certain US Airmen,Marines and Canadian Forces members have also earned the Ranger Tab.
Saturday, March 31, 2018
Update:US and British Soldier Killed in Syria Identified
The names of those killed in action in Manbij,Syria while serving in Operation Inherent Resolve have been released.The British Soldier was Sergeant Matthew Tonroe,33,a member of sniper platoon,3rd Battalion,Parachute Regiment.The American killed was Master Sergeant Johnathan J. Dunbar,36,a member of Headquarters,US Army Special Operations Command,out of Fort Bragg,North Carolina.*
The troops were killed when an IED exploded near their patrol.SGT Tonroe was embedded with US Special Operations Forces engaged in a mopping up operation directed at ISIL militants.He is the first British combat death in OIR,which was launched in Iraq in 2014 to neutralise the Islamist extremist group that evolved from al-Qaida in Iraq and later expanded into Syria.
Manbij is near the Turkish border.
ISIL sleeper cells have materialised in Syria in the wake of the organisation's suffering major defeats in Iraq and Syria at the hands of Combined Joint Task Force OIR.
The particulars of SOF activity in Syria have been closely held.
The troops were killed when an IED exploded near their patrol.SGT Tonroe was embedded with US Special Operations Forces engaged in a mopping up operation directed at ISIL militants.He is the first British combat death in OIR,which was launched in Iraq in 2014 to neutralise the Islamist extremist group that evolved from al-Qaida in Iraq and later expanded into Syria.
Manbij is near the Turkish border.
ISIL sleeper cells have materialised in Syria in the wake of the organisation's suffering major defeats in Iraq and Syria at the hands of Combined Joint Task Force OIR.
The particulars of SOF activity in Syria have been closely held.
Wednesday, August 16, 2017
Iraq Update:Fallen Soldiers Identified - Iraq Campaign continues
The Pentagon has released the names of the two US troops who died in Northern Iraq on 13 August 2017 while supporting Operation Inherent Resolve.Both were with the 2nd Battalion,319th Airborne Field Artillery Regiment,2nd Brigade Combat Team,82nd Airborne Division out of Fort Hood,Texas:
Sergeant Roshain Euvince Brooks,30,of Brooklyn,New York and Sergeant Allen Levi Stigler Jr. of Arlington,Texas.
SGT Brooks joined the Army in July 2012.He was deployed to Afghanistan from June-November 2014.
SGT Stigler joined the Army in November 2013.He was on his first deployment.*
According to Pentagon spokesman Colonel Rob Manning,US Army,an Army artillery section was conducting a counterfire mission against an Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant mortar site at the time of the incident.An investigation is ongoing.
To the west of Mosul,the 9th and 15th Iraqi Army Divisions maintain defensive positions on the west forward line of troops near Tal Afar,and the coalition continues to support the Iraqis as they reset and prepare for follow-on operations in the Western Nineveh Province,COL Manning added.*
The Iraqi Security Forces said the Soldiers died when a shell exploded in a cannon they were inspecting.
Sergeant Roshain Euvince Brooks,30,of Brooklyn,New York and Sergeant Allen Levi Stigler Jr. of Arlington,Texas.
SGT Brooks joined the Army in July 2012.He was deployed to Afghanistan from June-November 2014.
SGT Stigler joined the Army in November 2013.He was on his first deployment.*
According to Pentagon spokesman Colonel Rob Manning,US Army,an Army artillery section was conducting a counterfire mission against an Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant mortar site at the time of the incident.An investigation is ongoing.
To the west of Mosul,the 9th and 15th Iraqi Army Divisions maintain defensive positions on the west forward line of troops near Tal Afar,and the coalition continues to support the Iraqis as they reset and prepare for follow-on operations in the Western Nineveh Province,COL Manning added.*
The Iraqi Security Forces said the Soldiers died when a shell exploded in a cannon they were inspecting.
Monday, August 14, 2017
Bulletin:Two US Troops Die in Iraq - Tal Afar campaign underway
The Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve has announced the death of two US Soldiers on 13 August 2017 in Northern Iraq and the wounding of five others.They were conducting combat operations at the time,but were not in contact with the enemy.The incident is under investigation.According to The Washington Post,the Iraqi Security Forces said the troops died when a shell exploded in a cannon the Soldiers were making a routine inspection of.
The Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant extremists claimed responsibility for the casualties,saying they had attacked the troops,but CJTFOIR said it was a false claim.*
At this time,the ISF are working to liberate the city of Tal Afar in Northern Iraq,which is near Mosul,which they have recently recaptured from ISIL militants.The US Army has for some time been supporting the ISF with artillery strikes from several fire bases.France has also supported the ISF with its artillery.*
The latest incident brings the total number of US deaths in Operation Inherent Resolve this year to nine.Lieutenant General Stephen Townsend,US Army,Commander,CJTFOIR,said in a statement to the Soldiers' family and comrades that:
There are no words to describe the respect I have for you and sorrow I have for your loss.I hope there is some solace in knowing their loss has meaning for our country and all the members of our coalition as the fallen service members were fighting to defeat a truly evil enemy and to protect our homelands.*
The Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant extremists claimed responsibility for the casualties,saying they had attacked the troops,but CJTFOIR said it was a false claim.*
At this time,the ISF are working to liberate the city of Tal Afar in Northern Iraq,which is near Mosul,which they have recently recaptured from ISIL militants.The US Army has for some time been supporting the ISF with artillery strikes from several fire bases.France has also supported the ISF with its artillery.*
The latest incident brings the total number of US deaths in Operation Inherent Resolve this year to nine.Lieutenant General Stephen Townsend,US Army,Commander,CJTFOIR,said in a statement to the Soldiers' family and comrades that:
There are no words to describe the respect I have for you and sorrow I have for your loss.I hope there is some solace in knowing their loss has meaning for our country and all the members of our coalition as the fallen service members were fighting to defeat a truly evil enemy and to protect our homelands.*
Tuesday, June 27, 2017
War on ISIL:Air Campaign Update - plus a Canadian Forces sniper's world record kill
The air war against the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant continued on 26 June 2017,according to Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve.The OIR coalition conducted 31 strikes consisting of 45 engagements,CJTFOIR said in a press release.
In Syria,coalition forces conducted 27 strikes consisting of 39 engagements against ISIL targets,among them:
near Dawr Az Zawr,7 strikes engaged 2 ISIL tactical units and destroyed 3 vehicles;a tactical vehicle;2 bunkers;2 pumpjacks;a front-end loader;an IED factory;and an ISIL headquarters,while damaging 2 fighting positions;
near Raqqa,18 strikes engaged 15 ISIL tactical units and destroyed 13 fighting positions;2 vehicles;a VBIED;an IED factory and an ISIL headquarters,damaging 2 fighting positions.*
In Iraq,coalition forces conducted 4 strikes consisting of 6 engagements against ISIL targets,among them:
near Beiji,3 strikes engaged an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed a tactical vehicle storage facility;a tactical vehicle;and an ISIL fuel tanker;
near Tikrit,a strike engaged an ISIL tactical unit;
on 25 June,near Mosul,3 strikes began that engaged 2 ISIL tactical units and destroyed 14 fighting positions;5 weapons systems;3 medium machine guns;3 rocket-propelled grenade systems;2 mortar systems;a command-and-control node;and suppressed 5 mortar teams.These strikes closed within the past 24 hours,so were added to the 26 June report.*
The OIR strikes are conducted by fighter,attack,bomber,rotary-wing or remotely piloted aircraft;rocket-propelled artillery;and some ground-based artillery when fired on planned targets.No information on which countries participated in the strikes was provided.*
It is ironic that,with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau removing Canadian Forces from the OIR air campaign in an attempt to distance them from direct combat against ISIL,it was a Canadian Special Operations Forces member of Joint Task Force 2 who has just set the world record for a sniper kill by neutralising an ISIL militant from a distance of 3.54 kilometers,or about 2.2 miles.Congratulations to our loyal northern neighbours,who always find a way to assist,even joining the US Army so they could fight in the Vietnam War alongside Americans.
The sniper used a MacMillan TAC-50 .50 caliber weapon,which is the world's longest shoulder-fired firearm,and a 750-grain Hornady round.Experts point out that his spotter's skill in evaluating the atmospheric conditions all the way to the target was also critical to the success of the mission.
Mr.Trudeau insisted the sniper kill was both praiseworthy and consistent with Canada's advise and assist role in Iraq.Canadian Forces are expected to defend themselves and coalition partners during the course of their mission,he told reporters.
In Syria,coalition forces conducted 27 strikes consisting of 39 engagements against ISIL targets,among them:
near Dawr Az Zawr,7 strikes engaged 2 ISIL tactical units and destroyed 3 vehicles;a tactical vehicle;2 bunkers;2 pumpjacks;a front-end loader;an IED factory;and an ISIL headquarters,while damaging 2 fighting positions;
near Raqqa,18 strikes engaged 15 ISIL tactical units and destroyed 13 fighting positions;2 vehicles;a VBIED;an IED factory and an ISIL headquarters,damaging 2 fighting positions.*
In Iraq,coalition forces conducted 4 strikes consisting of 6 engagements against ISIL targets,among them:
near Beiji,3 strikes engaged an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed a tactical vehicle storage facility;a tactical vehicle;and an ISIL fuel tanker;
near Tikrit,a strike engaged an ISIL tactical unit;
on 25 June,near Mosul,3 strikes began that engaged 2 ISIL tactical units and destroyed 14 fighting positions;5 weapons systems;3 medium machine guns;3 rocket-propelled grenade systems;2 mortar systems;a command-and-control node;and suppressed 5 mortar teams.These strikes closed within the past 24 hours,so were added to the 26 June report.*
The OIR strikes are conducted by fighter,attack,bomber,rotary-wing or remotely piloted aircraft;rocket-propelled artillery;and some ground-based artillery when fired on planned targets.No information on which countries participated in the strikes was provided.*
It is ironic that,with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau removing Canadian Forces from the OIR air campaign in an attempt to distance them from direct combat against ISIL,it was a Canadian Special Operations Forces member of Joint Task Force 2 who has just set the world record for a sniper kill by neutralising an ISIL militant from a distance of 3.54 kilometers,or about 2.2 miles.Congratulations to our loyal northern neighbours,who always find a way to assist,even joining the US Army so they could fight in the Vietnam War alongside Americans.
The sniper used a MacMillan TAC-50 .50 caliber weapon,which is the world's longest shoulder-fired firearm,and a 750-grain Hornady round.Experts point out that his spotter's skill in evaluating the atmospheric conditions all the way to the target was also critical to the success of the mission.
Mr.Trudeau insisted the sniper kill was both praiseworthy and consistent with Canada's advise and assist role in Iraq.Canadian Forces are expected to defend themselves and coalition partners during the course of their mission,he told reporters.
Tuesday, May 2, 2017
As Battle of Mosul Ebbs,US Army Officer Killed in Iraq
Even as the Iraqi Security Forces near perhaps the greatest victory in their history by having liberated all but a pocket of the longtime Islamist extremist stronghold of Mosul,a young US Army officer was killed in action on 29 April 2017 by an Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant IED as he helped secure the outskirts of the city.He was identified by the Pentagon as 1st Lieutenant Weston C. Lee,25,of Bluffton,Georgia.1ST LT Lee was on a patrol in support of Operation Inherent Resolve,providing security as part of advise and assist to partnered forces,when the IED exploded.ISIL militants have heavily mined and booby-trapped all the areas of and around Mosul they withdrew from,making the city and surrounding area extremely hazardous.*
1ST LT Lee was a member of the 1st Battalion,325th Infantry Regiment,2nd Brigade Combat Team,82nd Airborne Division,out of Fort Bragg,North Carolina.An ROTC graduate of the University of North Georgia,he had enlisted in the Army in 2015 and excelled in pistol marksmanship as an ROTC cadet.Commissioned a 2nd lieutenant in December 2014,1ST LT Lee earned his Ranger tab prior to his Parachutist badge.Among his other decorations were the National Defense Service Medal,Global War on Terrorism Service Medal and Army Service Ribbon.The paratrooper was on his first tour in Iraq,having deployed there in December 2016,and posthumously received the Bronze Star Medal,Purple Heart and Meritorious Service Medal.*
At this point,the ISF have wiped out most of the 6,000 ISIL fighters that had been holding Mosul.Only 200-300 remain,and they are surrounded in the city's northwest,dug in among about 400,000 civilians running short on food,water and medicine in the historic Old City area.Mostly the US-trained Counter Terrorism Service and Federal Police are fighting inside Mosul;while the Iraqi Army regulars,Shiite volunteers and Kurdish Peshmerga control the perimeter.A total of about 100,000 ground troops supported by OIR coalition airpower and artillery have been battling ISIL in the Battle of Mosul since October 2016,which is expected to be concluded in a maximum of three weeks' time.
1ST LT Lee was a member of the 1st Battalion,325th Infantry Regiment,2nd Brigade Combat Team,82nd Airborne Division,out of Fort Bragg,North Carolina.An ROTC graduate of the University of North Georgia,he had enlisted in the Army in 2015 and excelled in pistol marksmanship as an ROTC cadet.Commissioned a 2nd lieutenant in December 2014,1ST LT Lee earned his Ranger tab prior to his Parachutist badge.Among his other decorations were the National Defense Service Medal,Global War on Terrorism Service Medal and Army Service Ribbon.The paratrooper was on his first tour in Iraq,having deployed there in December 2016,and posthumously received the Bronze Star Medal,Purple Heart and Meritorious Service Medal.*
At this point,the ISF have wiped out most of the 6,000 ISIL fighters that had been holding Mosul.Only 200-300 remain,and they are surrounded in the city's northwest,dug in among about 400,000 civilians running short on food,water and medicine in the historic Old City area.Mostly the US-trained Counter Terrorism Service and Federal Police are fighting inside Mosul;while the Iraqi Army regulars,Shiite volunteers and Kurdish Peshmerga control the perimeter.A total of about 100,000 ground troops supported by OIR coalition airpower and artillery have been battling ISIL in the Battle of Mosul since October 2016,which is expected to be concluded in a maximum of three weeks' time.
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