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U.S. Embassy Expresses Sorrow about
Death of Salvadoran Soldier in Iraq
July 19, 2006

The Government of the United States was deeply saddened by the loss of Salvadoran Sergeant José Miguel Perdomo, a member of El Salvador’s  Cuscatlán Battalion, while on duty in Iraq.

Perdomo was killed when a hand-made bomb exploded beneath six armored vehicles in the convoy that was returning the Salvadoran soldiers to their base camp, near Al Kut.

Due to shrapnel from the explosion, another Salvadoran Soldier, Corporal  Alexander Herrera Díaz, was injured.  Both soldiers were taken to the Hospital in Bagdad.  

We wish to express our sympathy to the family of Sergeant José Miguel Perdomo and the gratitude of the people of the United States for his great sacrifice.  This brave soldier gave his life to help the Iraqi people build a free, democratic, and stable country. 

We are also hoping for the quick recovery of Corporal Herrera Díaz.

The United States of America greatly appreciates the continued support of the government of El Salvadador in this moment of great difficulty.  Today we share the sorrow of Salvadorans.  Despite setbacks and tragedies such as we have seen today, together we will win the war against terrorism and make the world a safer place for us all.  The American people thank the people of El Salvador for their enduring support and friendship.