Army News, news from Iraq, - Army Times

Army IDs 4 guardsmen killed in Iraq

WILMINGTON, N.C. — Four North Carolina National Guard soldiers were killed in Baghdad on the last day of regular combat operations for U.S. forces in Iraqi cities, the military said Thursday.

The Department of Defense said an improvised explosive device detonated near their vehicle, killing the four men who were assigned to the 120th Combined Arms Battalion in Wilmington.

“The North Carolina National Guard and the people of our state mourn today with the families of these fine soldiers,” said North Carolina National Guard commander Maj. Gen. William E. Ingram Jr. “The Guard is a very close-knit organization, and the loss of these brave men will leave a lasting impact on us all.”

Officials identified the men as Sgt. 1st Class Edward C. Kramer, 39, of Wilmington, Sgt. Roger L. Adams Jr., 36, of Jacksonville, Sgt. Juan C. Baldeosingh, 30, of Newport and Spc. Robert L. Bittiker, 39, of Jacksonville.

The deaths bring to 15 the total number of North Carolina National Guard soldiers killed in action since Sept. 11, 2001.

The 120th Combined Arms Battalion is part of North Carolina’s 30th Heavy Brigade Combat team, headquartered in Clinton.