U.S. Marines Withdraw to Warships Off the Liberian Coast

Sunday, August 24, 2003

The Associated Press

A West African peacekeeping force that arrived about three weeks ago has helped stop fighting in Monrovia. The government and two main rebel movements also signed a peace accord made possible by the resignation and exile on Aug. 11 of former President Charles G. Taylor, who is now in Nigeria.

MONROVIA, Liberia -- AP
A 150-member Marine force withdrew to warships off the Liberian coast here today, ending significant United States military deployment on the ground after just 11 days, and disappointing many Liberians.

Marine spokesmen said American troops would be in better position on the warships to respond to any flare-ups after the signing last week of a peace accord meant to end 14 years of conflict that has claimed more than 150,000 lives.

About 100 American troops remain on the ground — 70 guarding the United States Embassy, and 30 acting as liaisons with West African peacekeepers, Lt. Col. Tom Collins, spokesman for the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit force, said as he left.

Liberians, watching American helicopters whir out of sight in the unannounced departure, spoke fearfully of being deserted.
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2003 © The Associated Press.

Dan