Soldiers Killed In Iraq Identified

NewsOn6.com

LEXINGTON, OK -- The families of three Oklahoma National Guardsmen killed when their helicopter crashed in Southern Iraq, want more answers about what happened. 

Corporal Michael Thompson from Kingston, Oklahoma, Sergeant Daniel Eshbaugh from Norman and Warrant Officer Brady Rudolf from Moore were among the 7 soldiers killed when the Chinook helicopter crashed early Thursday morning in Iraq. 

The other 4 soldiers killed were from Texas. 

Military officials think the chopper suffered a mechanical malfunction and was not shot down near Basra. 

The soldiers were part of the Detachment 1, Company B, 2 nd Battalion, 149 th Aviation, from Lexington, Oklahoma. 

"Our casualty assistance teams are currently with our family members," said Maj. Gen Harry M. Wyatt III, adjutant general of Oklahoma.  "Our hearts, thoughts, prayers and support go out to their families, friends and fellow Soldiers during this difficult time."

Oklahoma Governor Brad Henry also issued a statement Thursday evening.  

"The brave men and women of the Oklahoma Army and Air National Guard have an awesome responsibility. They place themselves in harm's way for the sake of the country they love. The tragic deaths of three Oklahoma Guardsmen remind us of the dangers they routinely face so that Americans can enjoy the freedoms upon which this nation was founded."

The unit had just deployed a few weeks ago.

Related story: 9/18/2008  Chopper Crash In Iraq Kills Guardsmen