CAMP BLUE DIAMOND, Ar Ramadi, Iraq
Tahleb Ebrahim Saoud, the deputy governor of Al Anbar, died at the Ramadi Hospital today as a result of wounds received in an insurgent attack. Deputy Governor Tahleb was in route to a meeting at the Provincial Government Center in Ar Ramadi when Al Qaeda in Iraq terrorists attacked his car with small-arms fire killing him and his assistant. “The deputy governor was a responsible leader diligently working to improve Al Anbar for all its citizens,” said Col. Robert G. Sokoloski, chief of staff, 2nd Marine Division. “Under his leadership numerous projects were initiated that improved roads and electrical services to various communities.” Iraqi Security Forces and coalition forces continue to conduct operations to root out Al Qaeda in Iraq terrorists and provide a secure and safe environment for Iraq’s democracy to succeed. “Insurgents continue their campaign of fear against local Iraqi civilians through murder and intimidation,” said Sokoloski. “The insurgents are against progress and only desire a return to the ways of the 7th century.”