Employees of Minden firm killed in Iraq

MINDEN - Two employees of a private security firm based here were killed Thursday in Iraq, the company's owners said.

The men were identified as Jimmy A. Riddle, 53, of The Colony, Texas, and Brian J. Wagoner, 30, of Fayetteville, N.C.

Both worked for SOC-SMG Inc., which provides security for a corporation under contract to destroy captured enemy munitions in Iraq.

They were in a vehicle escorting a convoy of workers in Al Ashraf when a explosive device was detonated, destroying the vehicle.

"They were respected by their peers and company management," the company said. "Both will be sorely missed."

A fund has been established for their families. Contributions may be made to the Riddle & Wagoner Memorial Fund, Business Bank of Nevada, c/o SOC-SMG Inc., 2393 Heybourne Road, Minden, NV 89423.

Riddle was a former police officer and member of the U.S. Marines. Wagoner also was a law enforcement veteran and served in the U.S. Army.