The commanding general of the soldiers involved says that this was an "isolated incident." This is not the first time there have been complaints of inadequate equipment or protection.

{mos_sb_discuss:5}

Here is the entire American Forces Press release:

By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Oct. 18, 2004 -- The commanding general of a group of soldiers that allegedly refused to take part in a recent convoy operation in Iraq told reporters the event was an "isolated incident."

Army Brig. Gen. Jim Chambers, commanding general of the 13th Corps Support Command, confirmed at an Oct. 17 press briefing in Baghdad that about 18 reserve soldiers with the 343rd Quartermaster Company didn't accompany a recent fuel supply convoy.

The Oct. 13 supply mission, Chambers noted, did move out a little while later with other soldiers. Chambers said the convoy in question was carrying good fuel and that all convoy protection measures were in place.

Some relatives of soldiers who didn't accompany the convoy were quoted in news reports saying the soldiers believed they were delivering contaminated helicopter fuel and that convoy protection measures were inadequate.

Chambers noted that the 343rd , based in Rock Hill, S.C., has successfully carried out its combat missions since being deployed to Iraq nine months ago.

The general said a full investigation of the incident is under way. Disciplinary action would be meted out if warranted, he added. All 18 soldiers involved have returned to duty and are performing routine tasks, Chambers said.