In April 2004, Fallujah was under siege by United States Marines, and insurgents were looking to relieve pressure on the city by attempting an offensive of their own.

Ten days before, the highway connecting Al Anbar to Baghdad was cut and the insurgents attacked the capital of the province, Ramadi.

The insurgents engaged the Marines on the outskirts of the city first with a roadside bombing and a continuous barrage from mortar positions.

Unfortunately, in addition to the heavy casualties suffered by the U.S. Marines, Lima Company's Commander, Major Gannon, was killed in action during the battle.

While attempting to link up with Weapons Platoon (Lima Company), Major Gannon entered an area that was occupied by enemy insurgents and was killed.