Gainesy
2nd Nov 2003, 16:14
BBC reports US Army Chinook shot down near Baghdad. POB 25-30ish, one fatality reported.
Bo Nalls
2nd Nov 2003, 18:23
From the CNN site @ 1120Z
BAGHDAD, Iraq (CNN) -- The U.S. death toll from a downed Chinook helicopter near Fallujah, has risen to 13, military officials said.
The helicopter was shot down by a shoulder-type missile, about 60 kilometers west of the Iraqi capital Baghdad, at 8 a.m. Sunday, witnesses told CNN.
Between 32 and 35 people from the Army's 82nd Airborne Division were traveling on the Chinook, which was one of two flying to the Baghdad International Airport from a U.S. base camp. The men were beginning a "R and R" mission -- a short break from war.
CNN's Jane Arraf, who is at the scene, said witnesses saw a shoulder-type missile strike the helicopter just before it crashed into a field in a farming area.
"They (coalition forces) are controlling traffic, with guns at the ready. They are saying it is still a volatile area," she said.
"The area is in the middle of farmland, and it would be extremely easy for somebody to hide here and launch a missile, which is what witnesses are saying."
My thoughts and prayers go to all the families involved. :(
Felix Lighter
3rd Nov 2003, 02:56
All above confirmed..... very bad day that is effecting all other civ/mil traffic into Baghdad.
Awaiting further from higher command but as of now it is all stop.
Anon