3 Americans Killed In Attack On Kenyan Airfield By Al-Shabab Militants

[jpak]

https://www.npr.org/2020/01/05/793752674/airfield-used-by-u-s-forces-in-kenya-comes-under-attack-by-al-shabab-militants

A U.S. service member and two Defense Department contractors were killed Sunday when the terrorist organization al-Shabab attacked a Kenyan airfield used by both Kenyan and U.S. forces.

Two Defense Department members were also injured in the attack, according to United States Africa Command. They are said to be in stable condition.

The attack by the Somali-based al-Shabab, which is affiliated with al-Qaida, was the group's first against U.S. forces in Kenya, according to The Associated Press. The site of the attack, Manda Bay Airfield, is used by U.S. forces to provide training and counterterrorism support to partners in East Africa, as well as to protect U.S. interests in the area.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of our teammates who lost their lives today," said U.S. Army Gen. Stephen Townsend, the commander of U.S. Africa Command. "As we honor their sacrifice, let's also harden our resolve. Alongside our African and international partners, we will pursue those responsible for this attack and al-Shabaab who seeks to harm Americans and U.S. interests."

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[doc03]

1. These DD "contractors" are private mercenaries I assume like Blackwater was nt

[Ex Lurker]

2. Maybe but not necessarily

My BIL is a DoD contractor overseas. He keeps the computer networks running on the base where he's located. A contractor might be anything from a "mercenary," as you say, to someone who provides catering services or building maintenance.

[MoonRiver]

3. I wonder if this was an attack in response to Iran.

[Takket]

4. didn't Pompeo tell those dead Americans that we are safer now?