Third Brave Rifles in the Storm (Concord 1026)

1026

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PUBLICATIONS COMPANY

Copyright © 1992 by CONCORD PUBLICATIONS CO, 603-609 Castle Peak Road Kong Nom Industrial Building lO/F, B1, Tsuen Wan New Territories, Hong Kong All rights reserved, No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying or otherwise, without the prior written permission of Concord Publications Co, We welcome authors who can help expand our range of books, If you would like to submit material, please feel free to contact us, We are always on the look-out for new, unpublished photos for this series, If you have photos or slides or information you feel may be useful to future volumes, please send them to us for possible future publication, Full photo credits will be given upon publication, ISBN 962-361-026-2

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Front Cover An M1A 1(HA) of the regiment. Take note of the new style of tracks. The 3rd ACR received their M1 A 1s only hours before the ground war started. The crews of these two vehicles are pointing in the air at attacking U.S. aircraft. (Anderson)

Back Cover This unit of the 3rd ACR marches through ticker tape parade held in Dallas, Texas on the 4th of July, 1991. (Dasing)

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On the 7th of August, 1990 the bugles were blown , the 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment was alerted for de­ ployment to Saudi Arabia to take part in Operation Desert Shield (Concord #2003 Operation Desert Shield). The 3rd ACR ,based at FT. BLISS in west Texas next to EI Paso was quite used to the desert. While not in the northern Ch ihuahuan desert the regiment would be training in the Mojave desert of southern California where the National Training Center is located. However the 3rd ACR found out that the Saudi Arabian desert was totally different from the west Texas or Californian desert and over there they would face an enemy that had been seasoned from fighting desert warfare since 1979. At that t ime the Regimental Commander was Col. Douglas Starr. Before the deployment the 3rd ACR was about a 3,900 - man regiment operating at 85 percent strength. By the time the regiment was ready to move out they were at full operational strength of 4,272 soldiers. When the orders came for deployment the 3rd ACR was in the process of rail load ing their vehicles for deployment to FT. IRWIN (N .T.C.) and alltheyhadtodowasto change their destination to the Port of Beaumont on the Texas south­ ern coast. With their veh icles tied down on rail cars and not available for training or gunnery, the soldiers spent the time remaining at FT. BLISS working on other basic skills like marksmanship, first aid and N.B.C. training . There was still a major logistical issue that must be settled before the trains left FT. BLISS. Should the regiment receive its live tank ammunition and T.O .W. anti-armor missiles at FT. BLISS, or wa it fo r the munitions to be delivered to the regiment once it arrived in Saudi Arabia? Col. Starr and other 3rd ACR staff officers, felt the regiment should travel with its ammuni­ tion, ready to fight as soon as the tanks rolled off the transport ships. Analysis showed that the ammunition would get to FT. BLISS in time to load the tank and other AFVs shortly before the trai ns w e re due to depart FT. BLISS, the soldiers of the regiment were greeted by several convoys of trucks ,loaded with 1-1/2 million pounds of ammunition . The Defense Department granted waivers for ship­ ping the hazardous materials, the troops loaded ammo and other supplies on 13 trains carrying 2,160 pieces of equ ipment. The trains departed FT. BLISS between 21-29

August, 1990 for the port of Beaumont. Preparations had to be made in order for the vehicles of the 3rd ACR to be made seaworthy. Vehicles were prepared for shipping by taping windows , removing flammable items and draining fuel tanks . The regiment loaded on six ships which departed the port of Beaumont on the following dates: 1. Gu lf Banker, 1 September, 1990 2. Ashly Lykes , 1 September, 1990 3. Cape Horn , 4 September, 1990 4. Gulf Trader, 4 September, 1990 5. Cape Ducato , 6 September, 1990 6. Honduras, 8 September, 1990 The Gulf Banke r transloaded onto the American Condor in Jacksonville, FL. due to maintena nce difficul­ ties. Three weeks later, the ships began to arrive at the Saudi Arabian port of AL JUBAYL. Two more weeks fol­ lowed before the last of the ships would arrive. Soldiers of the 3rd ACR began arriving between September 19th and October 3rd , 18 aircraft in all flew 4,272 troops from FT. BLISS to Saudi Arabia. Organization

Upon arrival, the regiment washoused in fourdockside warehouses w hi le unload ing its vehicles. The regiment spent the next few weeks (Sept 20 - Oct 15) assembling atthe port site. The 3rd ACR was assigned to the XVIII (18) Airborne Corps which was a total surprise to the reg iment who had always been associated with III Corps located at FT. HOOD, TEXAS, Working with the XVIII Airborne Corps was indeed a new challenge . The surprise continued , upon arrival to Saudi Arabia, the regiment was informed by the XVIII Airborne Corps Commander Lt. Gen . Gary Luck that the 3rd ACR was being attached to the 24th Infantry Division (mechanized) at the part of AL JUBAYL. For the record armored cavalry regiments usually work independently as a self contained fighting unit. Desert Shield

On the 22nd of October, 1990,the 3rd ACR wastaken from the 241D. (mech .) and made a subordinate com­ mand of the XVIII Airborne Co rps, by that time the 3rd ACR had almost completed its move from the port of AL JUBAYL to the Saudi Arabian town of AN NU 'AYRIYAH . The 3rd ACR was positioned in the strategic town of

AN NU'AVRIVAH becausetheattacking IraqiArmywould have to travel southeast down tapeline road until they reached AN NU'AVRIVAH. At that time the Iraqis would be able to decide to go on or not, in which they had not chosen this route after all because of the U,S. and coalition forces didn't give them time to make a major decision, When the 3rd ACR reached its defensive line in Saudi Arabia the 24 I.D. Cmech.) felt a bit of relief be­ cause up until the arrival of the regiment, the only heavy armor in Saudi Arabia was those of the 24 I.D. Cmech .) whom still had the standard M1 (105mm) lacking the necessary firepower that was needed. The 3rd ACR, on the other hand, was equipped with M1A 1's that could handle any major Iraqi threat. The regiment was re­ positioned In early December to the Saudi town of ASH SHU' BAH (known as Camp Cactus) located some 560km northwest of AN NU'AVRIVAH. First contact with the enemy It was during a scouting mission when elements of the 3rd ACR first encountered the Iraqi Army, and the first U.S. troops to engage in combat and also take Iraqi POW's.

The action occurred on the afternoon of January 22nd, 1991 when 3rd Pit, I Troop, 3rd Sqn. and 'rhe commander of the 3rd ACR Col. Starr came upon a Saudi Border Patrol unltflghting a reinforced Iraqi platoon sized unit. At that time they had taken a small number of Iraqi prisoners of war. During the skirmish, only two U,S, troops were slightly wounded. The next engagement with the Iraqi Army wouldn't come for another month. During that time the 3rd ACR continued to train and run screening missions on the Iraqi border. Finally the word had come the 3rd ACR was being relieved by elements of the 101 st Airborne Division (Air Assault) and the 24 I.D, (mech.), it was time forthe regiment to begin swapping (trading) all of its M 1A l' sand M3A 1 cavalry fighting vehicles for the new and more heavily armored M 1A 1(HA) and M3A2 Bradley's. The M 1A 1 Heavy has improved survivability through its heavier armor made with depleted uranium and bigger tank tracks for improved maneuverability. All of the Iraqi AFV's with Chinese or Soviet origin were proved to be no match for the M 1A l' s, The M3A2 Bradley has improved armor and an Improved fire control system and new tracks for better maneuverability. The 3rd Sqn. was the last unit to swap out Its tanks, only 36 hours before the start of the ground war.

Breaching the berm - the war begins

At 7a.m. February 22nd, 1991, after a 14 minute artillery barrage on Iraqi positions along the border, vehicles of the 2nd Sqn. breached the eight foot berm and entered Iraqi soil. The 2nd Sqn, drove 40km into Iraq without any resistance and returned by 3p.m. Mean­ while, the 43rd Engineer company equipped with the M9(ACE) and the M728(CEV) made 73 holes in the berm for the vehicles of the regiment to pass through. On the morning of February 24th, Col. Starr got a call from the XVIII Airborne Corps asking when he could be ready to attack, The word came about twenty minutes later that he would begin his decent into Iraq around 3p.m. that afternoon, The regiment advanced into Iraq with the 2nd Sqn. on the left and the 1st Sqn. on the right and the 3rd followed in the rear keeping track of the regiments boundary lines while coordinating with the 241. D. (mech.) and the 1st U.S. Armored Division, They moved through the Iraqi countryside during the night finding out how difficult night maneuvers can really be. At times platoons lost contact with their troop and troops with their squad­ rons, if they would have encountered any opposition that night it could have been a real challenge. The next day (Feb . 25th) the regiment had traveled same 80km into Iraq, before halting for refueling and to regain some type of composition. On February 26th, the regiment which had been placed back under the control of the 24 I.D. (mech.), advanced to and occupied a location In the desert east of the Saudi town of AL BUSAVVAH where It refueled. After a couple of hours the regiment moved east, two squadrons abreast and one in reserve as they had done before, this time the objective was AL BUSAVVAH N.E. airfield. Following a brief artillery barrage the 3rd Sqn. attacked the airfield while the 2nd Sqn. scouted forthe enemy. Upon arrival to the airfield the 3rd Sqn. found it to be deserted. The regiments next target was a gas-oil separation plant at Qalib AI Luhays, about 75km norrh-east of AL BUSAVVAH, in the southernmost portion of the regiments sector. The attack was launched with the 2nd Sqn. coming down from the north whole the 3rd Sqn. seized the airfield to the west of the separation plant. The 1st Sqn. advanced from the south through a minefield. Later that day Etroop, 2nd Sqn. began taking heavy weapons fire from a series of Iraqi bunkers. The 'rroop returned fire with 120mm tank rounds and 25mm

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Bradley chain-gun rounds, destroying one Iraqi truck and killing several Iraqi soldiers. At 7:30a.m. on February 28th, 1991 the regiment received word that a cease-fire would take affect at 8a.m. Two hours later word came for the regiment to move out to secure a downed UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter, a medivac one. It was shot down about 20km east of the regiment's position, close to the AR RUMAYLAH airfield under the control of Iraqi forces (Tawakaina Mech . Div. and the Nebuccnezzer Div. of the Republican Guards). As an M 1A 1 mineplough was breaching a chain link fence surrounding the airfield several ZSU-23-4's opened up on Etroop , and were quickly destroyed by 20 or more Bradley's having a hey day on the Iraqi vehicles. The Bradley's only live fire 1 or 2 times a year so the crew members really took advantage of a live target. "It was quite a firepower demonstration ." Moments later E troop encountered small arms and RPG fire that was quickly suppressed by the fire from M 1A1's & M3A2's. Then they began to receive tank fire from Iraqi T-55 and other dug in vehicles of the Republi­ can Guard. A couple of the ZPU's and T-55's were taken out by the 120mm rounds of the M 1A l' s. Shortly after the brief firefight the Iraqi soldiers started emerging from fo x holes and bunkers. The battle was over in 20 minutes, when the smoke cleared the Iraqi loss was quite heavy that day with over 50 vehicles knocked out and 165 E.P.W.'s captured. Upon inspection of the area numer­ ous bunkers with ammunition of all types, including artil­ lery rounds, small arms, AAA and aviation rockets were discovered. The 3rd ACR fought a war in Southwest Asia and never lost a life in combat, some would say that would be a miracle but others say that's what hard training in the hot Texas desert does to a soldier and it is how "Brave Rifles" are made. Redeployment to home station:

The 3rd ACRs redeployment began on 10th March 91. The regiments tracked vehicles were transported, in the same fashion as Desert Caravan, from TAA CACTUS to the port of AL JUBAYL. The 3rd ACR conducted port operations from 10th-30th March, loading eight ships total. The regiment, being the first XVIII Corps unit desig­ nated to redeploy, faced several problems stemming from the hastily assembled redeployment plan. Lack of an established infrastructure, needed to wash the 1,800+

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vehicles, sustain life support, and questions over customs inspection standards hampered the redeployment ef­ fort, however as these problems were overcome the process became more efficient. Lessons learned from being the first unitto undergo redeployment were passed on to follow on units. The airflow of personnel out of theater occurred simultaneously with port operations. Over 3,600 personnel departed in a period of 96 hours, leaving over 1,000 personnel to complete the port op­ erations. By 5th April 91, the last remaining personnel arrived at Biggs Army Airfield, FT. BLISS, TX for a reception they will never forget. At that time the regiment was detached from the XVIII Airborne Corps and returned to the control of the III Mobile Armored Corps. I would like to thank the following people for making this book possible: 1. FREDDIE LEUNG 2. TONY CHIN 3. S.F.C. RICK (HAVE A BETIER DAY!) HUNT 4. S.SGT COLYER 5. MICKIE MILLER 6. S.SGT KEVIN DASING 7. MAJOR JIM ANDERSON 8. HEADQUARTERS 3rd ACR 9. JEFF BRUSTLE 10. CPT. JIM SILSBY Photo Credits S.F.C. HUNT

MAJOR ANDERSON

SSG COLYER

SSG DASING

SSG SANDERS

SSG MOSER

SGT KLANG

SPC LAI\JG

SPC SCARUFFI

PFC LANGEN

Troops of the 3rd ACR are being loaded onto Saudi buses for the trip to Camp Manley, Saudi Arabian buses were used to transport U,S, troops due to shortages of U,S, vehicles, (Oasing)

Oct, 10th, 1990 Saudi port of ALJUBAYL,an M1A1 of the 3rd ACR uploading , The port of AL JUBAYL was one ofthe larger ports that was capable of handling larger loads, (Oasing)

This M1A1 at Camp Manley receiving a fresh set of hubs, The 3rdACR was the first unitto arrive in Saudi Arabia equipped with the more powerful M 1A 1, (Oasing)

An M3A 1 Bradley being pushed by another. Notice the first M3A 1 is missing its right track. The tracks on some Bradleys were removed in order for the AFV's crews to practice busting through berms. (Hunt)

An M88A1 from a 3rd ACR support unit is in the process of pulling a pack. The M88A 1 has been in use for 20 years by the U.S. military. (Dasing)

Looking through a TOW sight at another Bradley. The Bradley is equipped with an I.S.U. (Thermal-imaging Integrated Sight Unit) that allows the crew members to seek out and destroy its enemy under any circumstances. (Sand,ers)

Desert training, troops running and doing P.T. while wearing a gas mask. The Iraqi threat of chemical warfare forced the U.S. troops to carry their gas masks at all times. (Dasing)

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An M1 A 1 cresting a hill while training for an Iraqi attack. The 3rd ACR 's M1A 1s were stationed at Camp Manley, Saudi Arabia. (Dasing)

3rd ACR M1 A 1s on a desert training mission. Notice the spool of barbed wire hanging off the rear of the tank. The M1 A 1s of the 3rd ACR are that of an earlier production model. They are superior to the M 1 Abrams because of their 120mm smooth bore gun and its new N.B.C. system. (Anderson)

An M 1A 1 during maneuvers. Noticethe spare roadwheel hanging from the rear stowagebin/basket. (Dasing)

This M1 A1, vehicle E-43 is in the process of being stripped for spare parts. Note that crew member has removed the outer shell from his tanker helmet (CVC). (Dasing)

A Bradley and crew at a campsite south of Kuwait, Oct. 90 . This Bradley has its side skirts folded in the up position, to help prevent the drive train from getting clogged by sand and mud. (Sanders)

This M3A 1 Bradleywon't be seeing much more action. The fire on board this Bradley was caused by a crew heater. No one was injured from this Bradley's mishap. Under intense heat the Bradley can suffer a meltdown because of its all aluminum design. (Hunt)

SFC Rick "Have A Better Day" Hunt, posing with a M3 grease gun. SFC Hunt, who is a M 1A 1 co mmander is seen here with fellow cavalry members.

A Bradley crew member with an M-60 machine gun equipped with a night vision scope. The scope is AN/PVS-4 Starlight scope which entered service in the late 1960's. (Hunt)

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M1 A 1 tanker taking a quick rest during the harsh desert training. Take note that the tanker is wearing a sweater with his body armor over it. He is also equipped with a bayonet. (Anderson)

An M1 A1 with mineplough . Notice the pair of eyes that are painted on the hydraulic cylinders. (Langen)

A column of early production M1 A 1s have stopped during a patrol to tie down equipment. Notice that these M1 A 1s have spare track and roadwhee l on them , they also seem to be carrying large spools of barbed wire. (Anderson)

This M1A1, nicknamed the "SLAYER", on maneuvers in the northern Saudi desert. In the background is what appears to be a M977 HEMTT (Heavy Expandable Mobile Tactical Truck) transport. (Anderson)

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An M1A1 is leaving a trail of dust in its wake . Notice that one of the M1 A 1 armored skirts is in the opened position. (Anderson)

A 3rd ACR M3A 1 Bradley being recovered by an M88A 1. The M88A 1 and the M578A 1 were the only recovery vehicles capable of retrieving the M3 Bradleys during Desert Shield/Storm. (Anderson)

One of the main prob lems with the M 1 ABRAMS deployment to Saudi Arabia was the constant clogging of its filtering system as seen in this photo . A M 1A 1 crew member is in the process of cleaning its air filters . (Anderson)

This M1 A 1 nicknamed "Hard to Kill" as seen on a training mission. Notice that this M1 A 1 has a large numberof7.62 ammo cans hanging from its stowage racks . (Anderson)

This M1 A 1 is receiving fuel from a M978 HEMTT refueling tanker truck. (Anderson )

A pair of U.S. Army fuel bladders. These fuel :.;:. ders were located throughout the Saudi desert - rder to cut down on major refueling times and to " minate bottlenecking at refueling depots . .:. erson)

A 3rd ACR AH-1 (Cobra) helicopter is taking off after the crew landed the Cobra to relieve themselves. (Hunt)

.:,. 3rd ACR airfield located in the northern Saudi desert. Take note that all of the UH-60s in this photo seem to be MEDEVAC helicopters. (Anderson)

A MEDEVAC UH-60 (Blackhawk) is seen here picking up patients. The Blackhawks cou ld handle a larger load than the older UH-1 (Huey). (Anderson)

A trashed AH-1 after being recovered from the Saudi desert. This Cobra crashed because of its lack of fuel. (Anderson)

An M977 HEMTT is seen here transporting a downed UH-1 (Huey). (Anderson)

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A U.S. Army vehicle scrap yard somewhere in northern Saudi Arabia . The scrap yard has a large number of armored vehicles in it including a M577A 1 and a .1981 (FIST-V). (Anderson)

- .1 ese M3A 1 Bradleys while on patrol discovered the remains of a Kuwaiti pick up truck. (Anderson)

Aconvoy of tank transporters. The M911 HET (Heavy EquipmentTransport) was the main tank transporter used by the U.S. Armyduring Desert Storm. (Anderson)

Hummv Avengers, notice the M.R.E. (Meals Ready to Eat) boxes located on the roof of these vehicles. (Anderson)

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A U.S. Army desert field station located in northern Saudi Arabia. Next to the field station is a desert Hummv that has crudely hand-painted Black Crossl (Anderson)

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.A 3rd ACR M 113A2 on patrol. Notice the spare Stinger boxes on the roof of the APC. The M113A2 is an improved version of the M113A 1. (Anderson)

An M93 N.B.C. reconnaissance vehicle which is a German manufactured vehicle also known as the Fuchs (Fox). The U.S. Army received these vehicles during Desert Storm , because the U.S. Army did not have a vehicle capable of performing the duties that the Fox COUld. (Anderson)

3rd ACR Hummv's (Hummer) are on patrol in the Saudi Arabian desert. Noticethatthe M-60 machine gun has a scope mounted to it. Alsotake note of the unusual : )sition of the spare tire mounted on the roof of the far Hummer. (Anderson)

This M88A1 ARV (Armored Recovery VehiclE is pictured here with a thrown track. Notice that th vehicle still retains the original European style pair scheme. (Anderson)

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One of many 3rd ACR camps in Saudi Arabia. This one has been named Camp Cactus. (Anderson)

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A ground view of a 3rd ACR command post. The camouflage netting is quite effective. (Anderson)

Officersofthe 3rd ACR during a training mission. Silsby, the soldier on the left,carries a private 'Ju rchased"Rambo" style fighting knife. (Anderson) ~p t.

These "Brave Rifle" officers seem to have spare time while they gather for a friendly photo session during a unit briefing. (Anderson)

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Hummv Avengers and crews are pulling guard duty on a command and communication site. Notice the field gear hanging from the tail gate area of the Hummer. derson)

A 3rd ACR supply depot. Depots like this one were a common sight in Saudi Arabia. (Anderson)

- - s M3A 1 and crew takes time out to pose for ::,-..:-: ). (Lang)

A Hummv (Hummer) ofthe 3rd ACR loaded with members of the regiment. Notice the little heart attached to the rear of the Hummer. (Anderson)

A Hummv and a Ml13A 1 are receiving fuel. Notice the orange colored air identification marker panels on the roof of the two vehicles. The orange air 1.0. panels used to prevent an attack from coalition aircraft against the vehicles using the orange markers. (Anderson)

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A 3rd ACR SEE (Small Emplacement Excavator) is seen here digging a trench for a latrine. TheSEE isa newvehicleinthe U.S. Army inventory. It is based on the German Unimog 4x4 chassis and is built by Mercedes Benz. (Anderson)

An M1 059, which is an M113A2 equipped wit: a smoke generator. The M 1059 first entered serviCE with the U.S. Army in 1988 and is capable of layin ~ an oil-fog smoke bank. (Anderson)

An M48 AVLB at Camp Manley located in northern Saudi Arabia. The M48 AVLB can deploy its bridge in a two minute time period and will be replaced by thi M1 A 1 AVLB in the near future. (Anderson)

is supply truck is transporting artillery ammunition that is destined for a field artillery unit. (Anderson)

U.S.troops patrolling a Saudi airbase. Notice the heavily sandbagged look­ :Jt tower. (Anderson)

A CUCV which is driving alongside of a Saudi airbase. Notice the bunker located underneath the guard tower. (Anderson)

-.vo M113A2s and a M577 A 1 parked on a U.S. Army bridge. Notice the red cross and red crescent painted on the side of the APCs. (Anderson)

These command and communication trucks are set up and ready for action in the northern Saudi desert. Notice that the hood is raised on one of the trucks, thiE was a common sight in Saudi Arabia because of the intense heat. (Anderson)

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Soldiers of the 3rd ACR are having their fun, by -g nylon and burlap sandbags. (Anderson)

A 3rd ACR 5 ton truck is pulling a M198 artillery (howitzer) piece. (Anderson)

- rd ACR M577A 1 mobile command post. (Anderson)

This regimental 5 ton truck has its hood r­ seems to be undergoing repairs. (Anderson)

A field artillery unit that is preparing to move out. They are equipped with M548s and M109A3 S.P. guns. (Anderson)

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M3A 1 is catching a lift from a HET on the

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M1A 1 being transportated to the staging area for the ground assault into Iraq. (Anderson)

A battery of M 109A3s, they all seem to have their M-2 .50 cal. machine guns mounted in case of an air attack from the Iraqi Air Force. (Anderson)

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These transport vehicles are heading west on pipeline road , while receiving air cover. Notice the civilian school bus that is located on the side of the highw (Anderson)

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Acolumnof M109A3spreparingtogoona fire mission. The M1 09A3 isaself-propelledgunthatcansendan ammunition round 15 miles down range. The M10~ family entered service in 1979. (Anderson)

- Saudi Arabian National Guard Chevrolet _': ruck. The Chevy is mounting a .50 cal. -,- - e gun. Civilian vehicles were heavily utilized --;: Saudi National Guard. (Dasing)

A British Challenger 1, MK III is being transported to the Kuwaiti border by a Scammell commander tank transporter. The Challenger belongs to the Queens Royal Irish Hussars. (Dasing)

= rming a desert caravan, these 3rd ACR vehicles were transported to the border staging areas while the crews remained inside of their AFVs. (Anderson)

South of the neutral zone, helicopters of the 4th sqn. are in their bunkers. Notice wet laundry hanging from the rotor blades of the UH-60 Blackhawk. (Oasing :

This M1 A 1 of E-troop, 2nd sqn. has been named ''The Rebels" by its crew members who are; (left to right),PFC WILLIS, CPL COLON, PFC EASH and SSG OASING. (Oasing)

An AH-64 (APACHE) attack helicopter is flying cover for M1A 1s of the 3 ACR. The AH-64 is an all-weather tank-killing helicopter. (Oasing)

A 3rd ACR M88A1 is helping a disabled M1 A 1 that has thrown a track while calibrating its 120mm gun at a tank range in Saudi Arabia. (Oasing)

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These M 1A 1s are being transported to Camp Manley by civilian Saudi trucks. The U.S. Army had a shortage of H ETs and were forced to buy or lease Saudi abian heavy transport vehicles. (Anderson)

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Troops from the 3rd ACR during a training mission . The soldierin the center :-eems to have an airiorce survival knife hanging from his web gear. (Anderson)

This Bradley is on patrol in northern Saudi Arabia, it is also carrying an extra load of track and munitions. Eventually the Bradleys received a new style oftrack known as the 5,000 mile track. The old style of track could not take the abuse and harsh desert conditions. (Anderson)

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A UH-60 (Blackhawk) helicopter is receiving fuel from a M978 tanker (HEMTT). The UH-60 was the main transport helicopter used by the army during the ; Jlf operations. (Anderson)

This M3A 1 and its crew from the 3rd AC;: nicknamedthe"AVENGINGANGEL" havedecid2: to take a rest. Notice the portable jam box on tr :: roof of the Bradley. (Anderson)

This Hummv Avenger is being refuelled by a 3rd ACR support vehicle. The Avengers did not get to see much action in the gulf conflict because of the lack of Iraqi airforce effort in flying combat missions. (Anderson)

A column of M3A 1s of the 3rd ACR preparing to move out. The Bradleys performed quite well during its deploymentto Saudi Arabia. Thiswas not the first time that the Bradley had trained in Saudi Arabia. The Bradleys underwent a desert training program in 1985. (Anderson)

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A U.S. Army vehicle scrap yard somewhere in northern Saudi Arabia.

A UH-60 (Blackhawk) is getting ready to drop a sling-load. Sling-loads is a quick method of moving goods to the front line units. (Anderson)

- ':::DEVAC UH-60 (Blackhawk) is seen here picking up patients. The Blackhawks could handle a larger load than the older UH-1 (Huey). (Anderson)

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An M35A2 (deuce-and-a-half) truck complete with a gung-ho crew. This M35A2 has a M-2 .50 cal. machine gun mounted on a ring mount and an Alice pack on the front fender. (Anderson)

These Hummv's of the 3rd ACR are both carrying spools of barbed wire and mounting M-60 machine gun on their M.G. mounts. (Anderson)

"Cowabunga Dudes". An M 1A 1 of the 3rd ACR has a teenage mutant ninje:.· turtle as a mascot. (Anderson)

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This M88A 1 and crew seem to be taking a short break during a training mission. The M88A 1 is the only vehicle in the U.S. Army inventory that is capable of retrievi n; the M1 A 1s. (Anderson)

These trailers from a support unit are loaded :'1 155mm and 203mm (Bin) artillery ammunition.

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This M3A 1 commanded by SSG Charles Moser is on patrol in the neutral zone. The commander of this Bradley has named his vehicle the U.S.A. ENTERPRISE. (Dasing)

An M577A1 command post. The M577 first entered service in 1963 with the U.S. Army and over 5,000 models have been built since then. (Anderson)

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Officers of the regiment are being briefed. Notice the names that have been painted on the barrels of the M1 A 1(HA)s. (Anderson)

Proud members of the 3rd ACR are seen here, posing for a photo while displaying a large photo c' Saddam Hussein. (Hunt)

These M3A2sare being test driven before the delivery to the front line units. (Anderson)

This BMP-1 was captured atthe Ar Rumaylah airfield. The BMP-1, entered in 1967, carries a driver and a ten-or eleven man squad, and is fully :: ll phibious. It has a 73mm gun for its main armament and weights 13.9 tons. Jasing)

This Republican Guard T-55 has seen its last battle, sitting knocked out at Ar Rumaylah airfield. (Langen)

This Iraqi truck was abandoned by fleeing Iraqi Republican Guard troops . Dkm east ofthe Ar Rumaylah airfield. The truck had 120mm mortars and ammo : 1 board. (Langen)

Thisdisplayof Iraqi ammunition was removed from an Iraqi BMP-1.lncluded in this photo are 73mm rounds from the main gun, Sagger rounds mounted on their rails and a number of RPG rounds. (Fisher)

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This picture shows a 3rd ACR staging point for captured Iraqi vehicles. The vehicles pictured here are: SA-9 Gaskin, MT-LB, Polish WTZ-2 ARV and a couple :-. SRDM-2s. (Lang)

An M1 A1 "ABRAMS" with a mineplough attached to it is patrolling a Saudi air1ield. The M1A 1 mine plough of Israeli design saw its debut in Saudi Arabia du operation Desert Storm. (Anderson)

This M1 A 1 Heavy, commanded by CPT Poling who is also the commander of the 2/3 sqn, is seen here during a welcoming home parade at Fort Bliss. May · 1991. CPT Poling must be a Notre Dame Alumni member because of the "GO IRISH'' slogan on the side of the grenade box. (Dasing)

This Bradley crew member is having the - : l orable duties of burying the vehicle's trash. ::asing)

These M 1A 1s of E-troop , 4th platoon are searching the open desert looking for Iraqi reconnaissance vehicles. (Dasing)

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ACR tank crew are repacking equipment and extra stowage on their new M1A1 "Heavies". The M1 A 1 Heavy is an uparmored version of the M1 A1. (Anderson)

This M1A1(HA) has a full load, but the members still load more equipment onto the :: bustle rack and turret roof. (Anderson)

These M1A1 "Heavies" are in the process 01 receiving their ammunition. The crew member in the loader's hatch appears to be holding a APFSDS(SABOT) 120mm tank round. (Anderson)

ese M3A2s have just arrived in country. These M3A2s seem to be quite small compared to the equipment located on the dock behind them. (Anderson)

A new M 1A 1(HA) which is in the process of being turned overto its new unit. - his M 1A 1 (HA) shows a better view of the new style of track. (Anderson)

These M3A 1 Bradleys are in line to be turned in for the newer M3A2s. Note the mixture of uniforms that the AFV crews are wearing. (Anderson)

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An M1A1 is sitting next to a M1 A 1(HA) that is going to replace it. Take note of the difference in tracks between the two M1 A 1s. The M1 A 1(HA) has the newer of track while the M1A1 retains the older style. (Anderson)

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M3A 1 and M3A2s are sitting atthe port while waiting to be exchanged. Take note thatthe M3A2 has one road wheel that is painted green while the rest ofthem are tan. (Anderson)

The M3A2s were well received by their new crews , the most notice=-: change between the two vehicles are the new plates mounted to the side 0 ' ­ M3A2s. (Anderson)

A staging area for the new M3A2s. These Bradleys will soon be driven away by their new crews. (Anderson)

Crew members of the 3rd ACR are checking out their new M3A2s .(Anderson)

- -s.se M3A2s are being test driven before their delivery to the front line units. erson)

The big swap at Camp Cactus, crew members are loading equipment onto their new M3A2s. The 3rd ACR received theirnew Bradleys and M1 A 1(HA)s only hours before the ground war started. (Dasing)

A new M3A2 that still retains the old style of Bradley tracks. (Anderson)

These Bradleys are being transported by civilian trucks that were purchased from U.S. oil companies located in Saudi Arabia. (Lang)

M3A2s of the 3rd ACR, E troop, 2nd sqn. are proceeding through a belT The 2nd sqn. was the first unit of the XVIII Abn. Corps to enter Iraq. Feb. 22n 1991. (Sanders)

A deserted Iraqi outpost captured bythe3rd platoon, E troop. Feb. 22,1991. (Oasing)

Captured Iraqi weapons are being displayed on the roof of a Hummv. The~ Iraqi AK-47s were captured during a fire fight between the Iraqis and 3rd AC members. (Hunt)

SPC Hale who is a crew member of this M88A 1. Hale is seen here while taking a break shortly after entering Iraq. SPC Hale has mounted a night vision scope on his M-2 .50 cal. machine gun. (Langen)

An Iraqi officer that was captured by 3rd ACR troops on the 22nd of January, -99 1. The 3rd ACR soldiers were supporting a Saudi National Guard unit that had :.~ n attacked by a large Iraqi force. (Hunt)

This Bradley is loaded down with extra ammo boxes and other supplies. This was a common practice among AFV crews during Desert Storm. (Dasing)

A small town that is located on the Saudi/I raqi border. (Lang)

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) ne M3A2 is seen here moving through the Iraqi desert.

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An M3A2 of the 3rd ACR is seen here travelling cautiously on an Ire: highway as Iraqi truck burns a short distance ahead of the Bradley. (Lange -

These M3A2s of the regiment are engaging in combat during fighting in Iraq . Feb . 1991 . (Langen)

An Iraqi POW preparing to be taken to a holding compound. (Anderson)

A pair of Soviet built Iraqi trucks are seen here burning while a 3rd ACR scouting team scans the

for more enemy targets, (Lang)

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Troops of the 3rd ACR gather around a burning Iraqi truck west of Ar

=Jmaylah oilfield, February 27,1991, (Dasing)

The grisly remains of a once proud Iraqi soldier, (Hunt)

3rd ACR M3A2 Bradleys are seen here passing an abandoned Iraqi T-69 tank, (Fisher)

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Crew members of this E troop, 2nd sqn, M3A2 "The Enterprise" have gathered around their vehicle to pose for a photo , They are ; (left to right) , SPC Scaruffi, -= =C Stewart, SSG Moser, SGT Grey and SSG Dasing, (Dasing)

These tan and green painted Iraqi T-55s were abandoned by their brave crews in a last minute desperation attempt to escape. (Oasing)

Curious "Brave Rifle" crew members are seen here looking at a knocked out Soviet manufactured T-55. (Hunt)

An Iraqi T-55 sits burning in its original position. A larg number of T-55s and T-69s were destroyed at the " Rumaylah airfield by the 3rd ACR . (Oasing)

An abandoned Soviet built MT -LB was found in excellent condition by members of the regiment. (Oasing)

February 28, 1991 , Ar Rumaylah airfield. One of the many ZPU-4s left =.:Jandoned by the Iraqi army. (Oasing)

A view sh owing destroyed Iraqi bunkers at the Ar Rumaylah airfield. This photo was taken by the driver in his M1 A 1 (HA). (Oasing)

A pairof M1 A 1(HA) is approaching a Soviet builtZPU-4 anti-aircraft gun. The ZPU-4 23mm anti-aircraft gun is capable ottiring 3,240 rounds a minute and has gained the respect from Allied helicopter pilots during Operation Desert Storm. (Langen)

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Knocked out Iraqi ZPU-4 anti-aircraft guns. The ZPU-4 is a four barrelled 23mm anti-aircraft gun that has been in service with the Eastern Bloc and Third World mies since the early 1960s. (Oasing)

This Iraqi radar site was captured by E-troop of 3rd ACR on February 28, 1991 at Ar Rumayl, airlield . (Dasing)

An Iraqi command post that was captured by the 3rd ACR at the Ar Rumaylah airlield . (Dasing)

One of the many Iraqi ammunition bunkers ttYo were found at the airlield . (Dasing)

During the battle of the Ar Rumaylah airlield a vast number of Iraqi soldiers would approach an American vehicle waving a little white flag or a U.S. surrender sheetthat were air dropped. In this photo three soldiers from the 3rd ACR are approaching the Iraqi soldiers . (Scaruffi)

3rd ACR troops are in the process of mopping 1-2qi ::: D s aner th e battle around the Ar Rumaylah airfield perimeter. Februar 28. 1991 . (Dasing)

group of EPWs are under guard by an M3A2 Bradley of the 3rd ACR. (Hunt)

Defeated Iraqi soldiers in a mixture of uniforms are being taken to a POW compound. (Dasing)

Iraqi EPW is being sent to a holding area. (Anderson)

An M981 (FIST-V) is shown here guarding Iraqi EPWs. The M981 is essentially the M901 (TOW) vehicle fitted with a vehicle laser locater and aANITAS-4 night land navigation system. The M981 first entered service in 1985. (Dasing)

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These Iraqi EPWs are being guarded ~ regimental troops. Note that two of the soldiers 2--: not wearing the "Brave Rifle" patch. (Anderson)

These two Iraqi Republican Guard troops were killed when they tried to escape, resulting in a flury of 25mm chain gun rounds that destroyed the cab of the truck. (Dasing)

These Iraqi soldiers will not see any more fighting , for them the war is ove.­ (Anderson)

When war broke out with Iraq there were still a large n mba­ ' U.S . troops Nearing the woodland camouflaged BDUs. (Anderson)

Iraqi EPWs are being transported in Iraqi army trucks. (Lang)

Wounded Iraqi EPWs are being treated by a 3rd ACR medic. (Dasing)

A 3rd ACR AFV crew member stands near a Soviet manufactured ZSU-23­ 4 anti-aircraft vehicle. The ZSU-23-4 is a self-propelled 23mm anti-aircraft gun that is nicknamed "Shilka" and is capable of shooting down enemy aircraft at a distance of 7,000 meters. (Fisher)

3rd platoon, E troop rounding up EPWs at Ar Rumaylah airfield. (Dasing)

A cache of Iraqi hand grenades was found by a 3rd ACR tank crew. There seems to be four different styles of grenades. (Hunt)

These AK-47s are being displayed after they v, ~ confiscated from surrendering Iraqi soldiers. Take note -­ the recoil springs and bolts have been removed from t s weapons. (Hunt)

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An M3A1 Bradley passes by a BMP-1 that is buried in a hull defilade position. (Fisher)

A Soviet made Iraqi BRDM-2Rkhb (Radiobiological-Chemical-Biological) reconnaissance vehicle that was captured by the 3rd ACR. Next to the BRDM is a­ 72M. (Dasing)

SSG Kevin Oasing olthe 3rd ACR Headquarter Regiment poses on top of an Iraqi YW-531 APC. Dasing is holding an M16A2 with scope. (Moser)

Two members from the 3rd ACR are presenting their trophies. To the rear is a Chines8 built, Iraqi YW-531 APC. (Hunt)

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This BMP-1 looks a little ragged on the outside, but like most Iraqi AFVs, they were in perfect operating condition. (Hunt)

An M 1A 1 tank crew commanded by SFC Rick "Have a : 3tter day" Hunt are seen here posing for a quick photo. 3-C Hunt's M1 A 1 is along side the T-72. (Hunt)

Two officers from the regimentsupportsquadron - Capt. Jim Silsby (left) and Major Jim Anderson, holding a captured Iraqi AKM. (Anderson)

This Iraqi T-72 has trapped itself in a desert culdesac. It was later destroyed. (Hunt)

Like most Iraqi tanks, this T-72M has been abandoned by its Republica­ Guard crew. (Hunt)

AT-72M captured by E troop atthe Ar Rumaylat airfield on the 1st of March, 1991, The T-72M haE a 125mm gun and is the most modern tank in t h ~ Iraqi inventory. The Iraqi calls the T-72the Babylor Lion. (Klang)

This artillery piece was first believed to be a South African G-5 Howitzer. It was later identified as a Cardoen CC45 155mm Howitzer produced under license in Chile. (Dasing)

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March 3, 1991, Ar Rumaylah oilfields. Members of the 43rd engineers are destroying Iraqi bunkers. (Oasing)

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This Bradley crew is ready to return home. They are; (left to right) , SPC Scaruffi, PFC Stewart and SSG Moser. The crew has chosen to fly two different flags - a U.S. flag and a Confederate flag of Southern States used during the U.S. Civil War. (Oasing)

Several batteries of this 155mm Howitzer were found fully uploaded, ready to fire between the Ar Rumaylah airfield and the oilfield. (Oasing)

A car load of Ethiopian civilians on the way :c pilgrimage have been stopped by3rdACR Bradley~ checking for weapons and other contrabano (Langen)

This M3A2 of the 3rd ACR has come upon an Iraqi officer's command vehicle on March 3,1991. (Sanders)

This view taken from an M1 A1 show how ba r~ the desert really is. Never-the-Iess, please note tlls Saddam Hussain monument in the middle of t ~ desert.

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CPL Kelly Dickerson (Gunner) and SGT Darryl Jacobson (Loader) are seen here on their M1 A 1 vehicle #E41 patrolling the Ar Rumaylah oilfields. March 3, 1991. (Langen)

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This 3rd ACR M88A 1 is towing a captured Iraqi ailerof American manufacture, Thatwill be used as a commanding officer's office, (Oasing)

These AFV crew members are unloading their ammunition in preparation fortheirtrip home, March 9, 1991. (Oasing)

These M3A2s are moving through the Ar Rumaylah oilfields in March 1991. (Oasing)

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March 7, 1991 -1200 hrs . E troop is starting its 290km trip out of Iraq to Camp Cactus located in Saudi Arabia. Notice the second M-113 towing a capture d I "­ trailer. (Dasing)

March 17, 1991. AI Jubayl, Saudi Arabia. Col. Starr, commander of 3rd ACR gave soldiers of the regiments a briefing on proper behavior before returning home. (Dasing)

March 18, 1991, Biggs Army Airfield, EI Paso, Texas. These troops c..;= standing in line waiting to turn in their weapons that they have been attached ­ since October of 1990. (Dasing)

May 18, 1991, a welcoming home parade for the 3rd ACR's 3rd sqn., commanded by LTC Daly. (Dasing)