Mortar attack ends month long lull at base (Ramadi)

[Barrett808]

Mortar attack ends month long lull at base
By Christian Lowe
Times staff writer
December 28, 2005

RAMADI, Iraq — The mid-day calm was shattered Tuesday when enemy mortars targeted a Marine base here, the first time near-lethal fire has fallen on the camp in nearly a month.

Marines were chomping on grilled cheese sandwiches and potato chips in the Camp Hurricane Point dining hall when the computerized trill of a newly installed warning system chimed in.

“Incoming! Incoming!” the electronic voice blared, accompanied by a high-pitched siren.

Just a few seconds later: “thaRUMP!” Then another, much closer this time.

“THARUMP!” Marines stood bolt upright, looked around at each other.

“THARUMP!” another one.

The sound of shrapnel and other debris from the explosion tinkled on the tin roof of the chow hall. The Marines crouched under the long tables for cover, waiting for another impact. They remembered a similar attack several months ago that nearly pulverized a building just next door.

(more)

http://www.marinetimes.com/story.php?f=1-292925-1434483.php

[Rainscents]

1. Freedom is on the march!