After Iraq invaded Kuwait in 1990, the United Nations intervened with a stern resolution warning Iraq to withdraw or United States and UN forces would drive them out. Iraq refused, and Operation Desert Storm began. During the operation, Marines accomplished a wide range of missions: From the air, Marine pilots used fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft to destroy Iraq’s air and naval forces, anti-air defenses and ballistic missile launchers. With amphibious tactics, more than 8,000 Marines were able to storm the shores of Kuwait, ousting Iraq’s army. On Iraqi soil, Marines crossed minefields, barbed-wire obstacles, booby traps, and fire trenches while under attack from Iraqi artillery. With precise air operations, tenacious amphibious assaults, and versatile land tactics, the Marines led one of the most successful assaults in modern warfare. Following the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, the United States government declared a “Global War on Terrorism.” In response to the Taliban government’s refusal to respond to known terrorist activities within their borders, Marines were deployed to Afghanistan as part of Operation Enduring Freedom. In 2003, Iraq became a second front in the war on terrorism with Operation Iraqi Freedom. Both operations are ongoing, with Marine responsibilities ranging from combat and security operations to humanitarian efforts.
Episodes:
- The Gathering Storm
- Battle of Khafji
- Thunder and Lightning
- The Dagger
- The Ice Tray
- Operation Enduring Freedom
- Unfinished Business
- Crossing the Line
- Nasirya
- Street Fight
- On the Tigris
- Nation Building