Iraqi, U.S. forces help families of bridge tragedy victims

Courtesy Photo | Iraqi Police and 2 BCT Soldiers hand out aid packages Sept. 13 during a humanitarian assistance project to families affected by a bridge stampede Aug. 31.  

BAGHDAD, IRAQ

09.18.2005

Courtesy Story

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2nd Brigade Combat Team PAO

BAGHDAD -- Coalition and Iraqi Forces teamed up with local officials in Sadr City Sept. 13 and 14 to provide humanitarian aid to families affected by the events at the Khadamiyah Bridge Aug. 31.

The aid was a follow-up operation to an initial humanitarian package that was provided Sept. 3.

Hundreds of men, women and children died Aug. 31 when they were trampled or fell from a bridge over the Tigris River after panic swept through the crowd as they headed to a religious ceremony at a nearby mosque.

"The humanitarian supplies provided to the local citizens are intended to help them during a very tragic circumstance. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all the families involved," said Maj. Kurt Anderson, civil affairs team chief with 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division.

Each family received a package consisting of one kerosene heater, two food bags, a dozen water bottles, five notebooks, and one box of pencils.

"I was very impressed with the role of the Iraqi Police as the aid packages were handed out," Anderson said. "They definitely were of great assistance, not just in handing out the packages but also with comforting their fellow countrymen during a very difficult time."

The earlier humanitarian packages consisted of rice, sugar, cooking oil, tea and tomato paste.

• Date Taken: 09.18.2005
• Date Posted: 09.18.2005 20:00
• Story ID: 3043
• Location: BAGHDAD, IQ