Tigers Arrive, Prepare to Take on Baghdad Missions

BAGHDAD, IRAQ

11.10.2004

Courtesy Story

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CAMP TIGERLAND, Iraq - The successful movement from Camp Buehring, Kuwait to a sprawling forward operating base in Baghdad was a historic moment for the Soldiers of the 256th "Tiger" Brigade Combat Team. The brigade is attached to Task Force Baghdad, under the 1st Cavalry Division.

It was the first combat mission for the Tiger Brigade in its long and accomplished history. The 256th was mobilized for Desert Storm, but never deployed due to the short duration of the ground conflict.

Now, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom III, the treacherous convoy marked the end of six months of training and preparations and the beginning of daily combat operations.

"It was a significant accomplishment to arrive safely into Baghdad." said Brig. Gen. John Basilica Jr., the brigade's commanding general. "Others before us have not been so fortunate."

The general noted that the road north to Baghdad often draws the attention of insurgents. He said insurgents with small arms fire, rocket-propelled grenades and improvised explosive devices frequently attack convoys along this route.

"We had our share of incidents," Basilica said. "It could have been worse, but our Soldiers were prepared and responded appropriately." The convoy into Baghdad took four days and three nights. The brigade came north out of Kuwait with each vehicle fitted with some form of additional armor.

Tiger Brigade Soldiers endured a great deal of training beginning at Fort Hood, Texas and it continued in Kuwait. They qualified with individual and crew-served weapons, participated in convoy live fire exercises, as well as drivers" and force protection training, and received briefings on the rules of engagement and rules of force.

Currently the Soldiers are becoming acclimated to their surroundings and settling into what will be their homes and offices for the next year. They are working long hours downloading equipment and setting up operations for the lengthy stay.

Over the next few weeks, the brigade will participate in "left seat/right seat rides," a process where the leaders and Soldiers will shadow their predecessors and will then be observed by them to make sure that the operations have a smooth transfer of authority.

In addition to security patrols, humanitarian relief efforts, and restoration of essential services, the Tigers will help train the Iraqi Security Forces to include the Iraqi National Guard and the local police. The American Soldiers will also provide security for the voter registration process in Baghdad and the upcoming elections.

The facilities in Baghdad offer the Soldiers new ways to keep in touch with their families and loved ones like never before. They have access to 24- hour phone centers and will soon have a 24-hour internet café. There are a number of laundry sites, barbershops, a beauty salon, and workout facilities.

There is also a Morale Welfare Recreation facility that provides a place for Soldiers to relax, watch television and movies or read books. Soldiers reside in trailers furnished with a bed, air-conditioner and heater, wall locker and nightstand.

For a fee there is also a satellite service offered that the troops can purchase, offering internet and cable television. Cell phones are also readily available.

The dining facility is a large, new and provides Soldiers with four meals a day.

It offers a plethora of choices including a main line, short order, soup and salad bars, stir-fry, and a variety of deserts daily. Basilica noted that the 256th has excelled in training and faced many obstacles. He said the next year will be filled with challenges and that his Soldiers will rely on their training to get them through it.

But for now, he's happy to be here. "We are proud to be a part of the 1st Cavalry [Division] Team," he said.

• Date Taken: 11.10.2004
• Date Posted: 11.10.2004 13:40
• Story ID: 582
• Location: BAGHDAD, IQ