What a shameful waste

[M_Six]

A simple precaution of using a safety ropes would have prevented these needless deaths. I hope someone is made to answer for this. These guys were from the local reserve unit here.

The Marines themselves should have been responsible. They are trained in these sort of procedures. Looks to me they just disregarded basic safety precautions resulting in this tragedy.

[MD1032]

They also disreguarded LOGIC.

This is a tragedy to be sure, but I'm not sure exactly who's responsible... if anyone is. We all take risks everyday when we choose to leave the house (or we may even fall victim to an accident within our own homes) I'm not diminishing these soldiers deaths, nor am I saying that this couldn't have been avoided, but it's also true that there's no agency and no set of rules that will protect all people at all times in all situations.

[pickel]

The Marines were sent to the other side of the canal to provide security against any Iraqi soldiers or irregulars who might be hiding behind a large berm on the opposite side.

Obviuosly two Marines made it across and the two who drowned took a wrong turn and wound up under the water
Their training should have had them have sense enough to wear a saftey line. This will be one of many sad stories. I hope their deaths and the deaths of others are worth it.