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• May 9, 2007 9:01 am US/Eastern
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  FBI: Fort Dix Nearly Became A Battleground

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FBI: Fort Dix Nearly Became A Battleground

Read The Full Federal Indictment

Fort Dix Responds To Foiled Terror Plot

FORT DIX, N.J. (CBS) ― "They wanted to kill as many soldiers as possible." That's the alleged motive behind a terrorist plot stopped by federal authorities.

The location for their massacre was supposed to be Fort Dix Army base in New Jersey. The base is the last stop for U.S. Army reservists before they are deployed to Iraq, but it was also the latest target in the war.

Authorities say six suspected terrorists wanted to turn the Army base into a battleground.

"Today we dodged a bullet in fact when you look at type of weapons this group was trying to purchase. We may have dodged a lot of bullets," said J.P. Weis of the FBI.

Investigators say some of the men were arrested while trying to buy automatic weapons from undercover FBI informants.

Mohamad Shnewer, Driton Duka, Eljvir Duka, Shain Duka, Serdar Tatar and Agron Abdullahu were all charged in the plot.

Prosecutors say that with only six people, they could have killed at least 100 soldiers by using rocket-propelled grenades.

The suspects were caught when they allegedly took a training tape to a New Jersey video store to make copies on DVD. A store employee called the FBI.

According to U.S. Attorney Christopher Christie, "The philosophy that supports and encourages jihad around the world against Americans came to life here in New Jersey and threatened the lives of our citizens."

Investigators say one of the suspects knew Fort Dix like the back of his hand. Serdar Tartar made deliveries on the base, while working at his father's pizzeria.

All six suspects lived in the area, and they didn't give many warning signs.

"You just have to really be mindful and aware of your surroundings. Because that's just how it is now. It's 2007, and it could be your next door neighbor," said National Guardsman David Cohen.

Investigators say the suspects didn't just talk about their plan, they practiced it at a shooting range in the Poconos.

The alleged terrorists had been practicing with AK-47s at a shooting range in Gouldsboro, Pennsylvania.

The activity alarmed the state parks commission, and they alerted the feds. One of the six suspects also rented a house nearby.

Locals say the six men tried to fit in. Many are understandably shocked at the turn of events.

The owner of the local tavern says the men were there just four weeks ago, drinking vodka and even buying shots for her.

(© MMVII, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)