The Good News from the Front

I don't often see stories in the mainstream media about these achievements from the front, so it's time to post them at ConservaChick. These are not exclusive updates; they are made available to the press through releases from CENTCOM on a regular basis. Evidently, not many in the mainstream press think they're noteworthy... Every success counts and it's time the word started getting out. From now on, as I get the good news so will you!

SUSPECTED AQ MEDIA EMIR, ALLEGED "BUTCHER" CAPTURED IN RAIDS

BAGHDAD, Iraq - Coalition Forces killed one terrorist and captured 16 suspected terrorists including an alleged al-Qaeda media emir during raids Friday morning throughout Iraq.

In Mosul, Coalition Forces captured an al-Qaeda related suspect known as "The Butcher" who is allegedly responsible for numerous kidnappings, beheadings, and suicide operations in the Ramadi and Mosul areas. Coalition Forces captured five additional suspects and killed one terrorist during the raid.

During operations in Fallujah, Coalition Forces captured two suspected terrorists with alleged ties to foreign fighter facilitation.

Northeast of Karmah, a suspected al-Qaeda media emir was captured along with seven others. The suspects are also believed to be part of an al-Qaeda courier network.

"Coalition Forces will continue to target al-Qaeda in Iraq and foreign terrorist facilitators regardless of where they may hide," said Lt. Col. Christopher Garver, MNF-I spokesperson.

IRAQI ARMY, ATTACK HELICOPTERS CAPTURE 32 INSURGENTS

CONTINGENCY OPERATIONS BASE SPEICHER, Iraq - Iraqi soldiers from the 1st and 3rd Battalions of the 4th Division and Iraqi police from Tikrit's Emergency Service Unit completed operations today in Duluiyah and the Jabouri Peninsula where they detained eight suspected terrorists.

U.S. Soldiers from Company A, 3rd Combined Arms Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, and attack helicopters assisted the Iraqi-led operations, which began at the request of the local populace.

"This operation demonstrates the ability of the [Iraqi security force] to react and conduct complex operations. The support of the forces from Tikrit has been outstanding, and it's impressive that the Iraqi army is able to mass forces at different points in the province," said Lt. Col. Kevin Dunlop, commander, 3rd Combined Arms Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment.

"Operations like this are possible only because local people come forward with information and ask for help. The more information and cooperation the Iraqi army receives, the more frequently it can conduct these missions, so that security is provided for everyone."

In Bayji more than 400 Iraqi army soldiers from the 2nd Strategic Infrastructure Brigade detained more than 24 suspected terrorists during joint operations. Paratroopers from the 1st Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division, provided quick reaction assets.

"The Iraqis are taking great strides in leading and planning operations," said Bryan Owens, commander of the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division.

"Their continued success will help to make Salah Ad Din a peaceful place for all its citizens."