Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes
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Jed Boal reporting Iraqi guerrilla commanders are now offering a 5-thousand dollar bounty to anyone killing an American. And, two U.S. soldiers were killed in the past 24- hours.
While much of America's attention has shifted away from the war, a group of Utahns is on a roll to keep the mounting casualties in -focus.
American troops remain under seige in Iraq. Soldiers still die daily, more than 250 since the conflict began. But, some young Utahns are on a mission across America for those who sacrificed their lives.
Firefights still stagger the march towards peace in Iraq.. This time, shots fired on a humvee. U-S forces fought back. Two soldiers were hurt. Overnight, in a separate gun battle two soldiers died.
256 American troops have died since the beginning of military operations in Iraq. A handful of Utahns decided to raise money and awareness for the families of those soldiers.
Clark Madsen/Skate Across America: "WE WATCHED THESE SOLDIERS DIE FOR OUR FREEDOMS THAT WE TAKE FOR GRANTED. SO THIS IS OUR WAY OF GIVING BACK TO THOSE SOLDIERS."
What do they do?...they skate... all across the country...starting in San Francisco last month ending in New York City September 11th.
For the families of the fallen soldiers.
Mike Phillips/Skate Across America: "ALL THESE FAMILIES DON'T GET VERY MUCH FROM THE GOVERNMENT...IT'S OUR WAY OF SAYING, THANKS WE APPRECIATE WHAT YOU DO FOR US."
Jed Boal/Eyewitness News: "WHAT DO THE SKATERS HOPE TO ACCOMPLISH? THEY HOPE THAT WITH EVERY MILE THAT THEY SKATE AND EVERY DOLLAR THEY RAISE...THE CHILDREN OF THE SOLDIERS KILLED IN IRAQ KNOW THAT SOMEONE IS LOOKING OUT FOR THEIR FUTURE."
The skate team takes a bruising on the road and performing stunts...they want the soldiers' families to see their effort and know people care.
The tour started slowly, but, it's gaining momentum and attention...they've picked up sponsorships from Operation Kids and Xango...
The skaters follow news from Iraq and say they feel a connection with the soldiers.
Clark Madsen/Skate Across America: "IT REALLY PAINS US. EVERY DAY WE SEE A GROUP OF SOLDIERS AMBUSHED OR KILLED...THAT JUST MAKES THE FIFTY OR 80 MILES...THAT MUCH EASIER FOR US
They skate some long days...but, feel good about what they're doing and the reponse they're getting.
