Charlie Company 2nd LAR[clarification needed] played a key part in the operation.

1st platoon Charlie company 2nd LAR advanced deep into the outskirts the town, ahead of the main force overnight.

A force of about 1,000 marines and sailors from Regimental Combat Team 2 and Iraqi soldiers form 1st Company, 2nd Battalion, 4th Brigade took part in the offensive.

[1] The operation was designed to root out anti-Iraqi and anti-coalition forces and destroying some of their support system.

[2] While clearing the city, marines and Iraqi forces came under heavy fire but managed to fight off the insurgents with only one friendly killed in action.