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Local soldier has "amazing day" in Iraq

Sep- 9-2005 » Filed Under: TF Freedom

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In the middle of a major Coalition and Iraqi Army action against anti-Iraqi insurgents in northwestern Iraq, Lt. Col. Cecil Nance of the North Carolina National Guard intervened to see a grandmother, mother and newborn baby to safety.

Midmorning on this particular early June day, soldiers reported "civilians on the battlefield," and described two adult females carrying a "package." Because this region was already a hotbed of insurgent activity and reports of suicide bombers (even using women) were on the rise, extreme caution was advised. When Nance arrived on the scene, he discovered the "package" to be a newborn baby.

Nance learned through an interpreter, the mother had delivered her baby by Caesarian section only five days earlier. Now she, her mother, and baby were caught in no man's land, wanting nothing more than to go home. [...]

While Nance obtained military authorization, he coaxed the women and baby into an air conditioned Humvee to protect them from the 100-degree heat and provide a modicum of comfort. Nance then hurried to the Iraqi Police Checkpoint to arrange transportation and an escort. The police were ordered to search the civilians' home to ensure insurgents had not occupied the premises in their absence.

The police followed Nance to his Humvee. He cradled the baby gently in his arms as the mother, who was in considerable pain, got into the police car.

After three intense hours, the trio, who will, with hope, represent three generations of grateful, freedom loving Iraqis, were on their way home. Mission accomplished.

"What an amazing day," said Nance in wonder and relief.


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