News Releases for July 2003
July 22, 2003
For more information contact: Col. Elroy Tomanek, Chief of Staff ND Army National Guard
(701) 333-3002; Cell (701) 226-4353
957 Soldier Killed, Another Injured In Iraq
BISMARCK, N.D. - At approximately 8:30 AM Iraq time July 22nd (11:30 PM CDT, July 21st), one soldier was killed and another injured from the 957th Multi-Role Bridge Company, Bismarck, ND. Specialist Jon P. Fettig, 30, Dickinson, ND, was killed and Specialist Brandon Erickson, 22, Bismarck, ND, was wounded. According to military sources in Iraq, the enemy attack occurred on a highway north of Baghdad. Members of the 957th were in convoy when attacked with rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs).
Fettig was fatally injured at the scene and Erickson wounded. Although his injuries were not life threatening, Erickson was evacuated to a medical aid station where he is receiving treatment and reported to be doing well. No other information on his condition is available at this time.
"Today, as we mourn a native son, North Dakotans are reminded of just how high the price of freedom is," said Gov. John Hoeven. "Specialist Jon Fettig has paid the ultimate price for his country. We are truly proud of him, and along with his family, we mourn his loss. Mikey and I, on behalf of the people of North Dakota, express our heartfelt condolences to Specialist Fettig's family and loved ones. Our thoughts and prayers are also with Specialist Brandon Erickson as he recovers from his wounds."
Maj. Gen. Michael Haugen, Adjutant General of the North Dakota National Guard said that Specialist Jon P. Fettig exemplifies the proud history and volunteer spirit of North Dakotans, who have always been concerned over human suffering worldwide. This is a tragic loss for North Dakota and the North Dakota Army National Guard. We are concerned with the safety of all our soldiers serving in the area. Our prayers go out to our soldiers for their safe return.
No other soldiers from the North Dakota Army National Guard were wounded in this incident.
The family has asked that there be no media contact with the family for 24 hours.
