26th Marine Expeditionary Unit begins arriving in Helmand

KABUL, AFGHANISTAN

01.17.2011

Courtesy Story

ISAF Joint Command

KABUL, Afghanistan – An aviation detachment of Marines from the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit began arriving at Camp Leatherneck in Helmand province this week in support of ongoing operations in Afghanistan.

According to Lt. Col. Arend Westra, the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward) future plans officer, the detachment consists of several Marines from various units augmented to elements of the Battalion Landing Team from 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment. Part of their mission will consist of conducting patrols and providing security as roads are improved in Northern Helmand.

Once improved, this road, known as the Peace Highway or Route 611, will connect Northern Helmand to Highway 1 – the only major highway in Afghanistan.

The aviation combat element of the detachment will augment 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward) with MV-22B Ospreys and AH-1W Super Cobras and Marines from aviation logistics, air control and refueling military occupational specialties.

Marines of Battalion Landing Team 3/8 will be dispersed to conduct their mission in Northern Helmand, while the 26th MEU’s aviation combat element Marines will remain at Camp Bastion and Camp Leatherneck, providing air support and medium lift sorties.

• Date Taken: 01.17.2011
• Date Posted: 01.17.2011 11:02
• Story ID: 63691
• Location: KABUL, AF