By june 18, a total of 701 americans had died in operation enduring freedom. the total includes 700 troops and one department of defense civilian. of these deaths, 471 were killed in action with the enemy while 230 died in noncombat incidents.rnThere have been 3,023 troops wounded in action during OEF. This number includes 1,083 who were wounded and returned to duty within 72 hours and 1,940 who were unable to return to duty quickly.rnAfghan Army forces working with US troops and coalition forces launched a major operation against a Taliban and al Qaeda stronghold in the northern reaches of Helmand Province in late May, resulting in a protracted battle in and around the Nad Ali District.rnOn May 18, ground forces attacked the Taliban-held town of Marja, a major command node and hub of opium processing for the militants, according to a US military source.rnTroops moved to take control of the center of the town, targeting the bazaar where the main Taliban activity was located. Multiple ground engagements occurred on the initial day, prompting repeated calls from close air support.rnAircraft including Air Force B-1B Lancers, F-15E Strike Eagles, and MQ-9 Reapers responded by employing several guided munitions and Hellfire missiles and gun strafing runs against enemy fighting positions.rnContinued engagements in and around the district lasted until May 22, with additional air assets such as A-10 Warthogs and MQ-1 Predators joining the fight.rnOn May 22, several compounds and buildings were bombed in Marja, including the site of drug production operations, as well as groups of enemy personnel.rnAfter taking control of the center of the town, forces discovered war rooms stocked with maps, communications gear, night vision goggles, packaged explosives for vehicle borne improvised explosive devices, and US military vehicle parts, in addition to large amounts of black tar opium and derivatives.rnAround 34 Taliban fighters were reported killed in the fighting to control the town, with 16 terrorists killed during air strikes as Taliban elements attempted to counterattack, according to coalition reports. Six more surrendered.
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