BAGHDAD, Iraq – Soldiers from the 6th and 9th Iraqi Army Divisions, supported by Multi- National Division – Baghdad Soldiers, conducted one of the largest operations of the past six months to gain control of a terrorist stronghold south of Baghdad.
Operation Glory Light was designed to deny terrorists sanctuary and preempt enemy attacks in the Baghdad area.
The operation began in the early morning hours of March 2 when the soldiers of 3rd Battalion, 1st Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division, and 1st Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division Soldiers air assaulted into the Sadr-Yusufiyah area.
Following the air assault, the Soldiers were attacked by indirect and small-arms fire. They also discovered a roadside bomb.
Soldiers from the 6th and 9th IA Divisions then moved into position to clear, search and secure roads and houses in the town. From March 5-6, the 9th IA Div. uncovered nine weapons caches, consisting of 131 mortar rounds, nine 50mm mortars, 17 rockets, two rocket-propelled grenade launchers, six AK-47 rifles, two BKC machine guns and a large amount of bomb-making materials.
The operation lasted for one week.
In total, the combined efforts of the Soldiers resulted in the discovery of 26 roadside bombs, two vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices and 15 weapons caches.
The operation also involved seven engagements with the enemy resulting in the detention of 16 suspected terrorists, two terrorists killed and one wounded.
Through the hard work and determination of each Soldier involved in the operation, the town of Sadr-Yusufiyah is now secured by Iraqi forces and supported by Soldiers from the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division.
Source: Multi-National Force-Iraq