• Military

• WMD Menu                           

• Introduction
• Systems
• Facilities
• Agencies
• Operations
• Countries
• Hot Documents
• News
• Reports
• Policy
• Budget
• Congress
• Links

• Intelligence
• Homeland Security
• Space

NEWS RELEASE HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES CENTRAL COMMAND 7115 South Boundary Boulevard MacDill AFB, Fla. 33621-5101 Phone: (813) 827-5894; FAX: (813) 827-2211; DSN 651-5894

December 22, 2004
Release Number: 04-12-45


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


MNF-I STATEMENT ON MOSUL ATTACK

BAGHDAD, Iraq - A preliminary investigation indicates that the explosion at the U.S. Army dining facility at Forward Operating Base (FOB) Marez in Mosul on Tuesday was likely caused by an improvised explosive device worn by a suicide attacker.

Evidence found at the site includes components normally associated with improvised explosive devices. There was no physical evidence of a rocket, mortar, or other type of indirect fire weapon.

As a result of these findings, LTG Thomas F. Metz, Commanding General, Multi-National Corps - Iraq, has ordered a full investigation to determine the complete facts and circumstances surrounding the attack.

"Our prayers and condolences go out to the loved ones and families of these brave men and women," said Gen. George W. Casey, Jr., Commanding General, Multi-National Force - Iraq. "We will determine exactly what happened at FOB Marez and continue to work to ensure the safety and security of our people and our operating bases."

Military officials have expected increased violence as insurgents try to intimidate the Iraqi people and disrupt January elections.

"Insurgents are desperate to create the perception that elections are not possible," said General Casey. "We will not allow terrorist violence to stop progress toward elections."

Updated information establishes that 22 people were killed in the attack, including 14 U.S. service members, four U.S. civilian contractors, three members of the Iraqi Security Forces, and one unidentified non-US person.

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


TEXT FOR RELEASE AND OPSEC REVIEW PROVIDED BY THE COMBINED PRESS INFORMATION CENTER. FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT (703) 270-0320.

-30-