FORT DRUM, N.Y. (AP) — Soldiers at Fort Drum and veterans of the battle depicted in the film "Blackhawk Down" are commemorating the engagement's 25th anniversary.

Officials with the 10th Mountain Division say three days of events starting Wednesday will honor the veterans of the Battle of Mogadishu and the 18 American soldiers who were killed in Somalia 25 years ago this week.

The battle began Oct. 3, 1993, when two Blackhawk helicopters were shot down as Army Rangers and Delta Force teams conducted raids to capture Somali warlords who controlled food sources meant for starving civilians.

A soldier in the 10th Mountain Division, Pfc. James Martin, was among the U.S. soldiers killed.

This week's events include a screening of a documentary film about the battle and a panel discussion on the battle with Mogadishu veterans.

More From WIBX 950