Warriors in Peace Operations - Strategic Studies Institute - U.S. Army

Force protection became a necessary burden for all
support missions; security details took soldiers away from
assigned duties. Perimeter/gate guards and other security
details consumed 12-15 soldiers per 12-hour period.
Further, the Task Force Eagle commander’s four-vehicle
convoy rule limited the unit’s ability to provide timely
resupply and maintenance. This four-vehicles rule entailed
convoy movements at platoon level and required eight
soldiers for each convoy mission. Also, at least one convoy
vehicle required a crew-served weapon.
SUMMARY
The battalion was able to accomplish this very tough and
demanding mission because of the highly trained and
motivated soldiers assigned. One in particular was the
battalion CSM. We were blessed with this outstanding
soldier who loved his job and the soldiers that he led. Tough,
determined, stubborn, and professional, CSM Bedford was
an inspiration to the soldiers of the 1AD and to me.
The doctrinal guidance provided in FM 100-5 and FM
1-500 provided the framework for the battalion Combat
Service Support plan. However, our soldiers’ ability to
anticipate and provide responsive support enabled the
aviation units to project their might. The most important
characteristic of this deployment was the battalion’s ability
to respond flexibly to any mission. The individual soldier’s
performance and the team effort of the “Workhorse”
battalion ranged from outstanding to superb. The unity of
effort and integration of tactics, techniques, and procedures
created an atmosphere of skilled professionals delivering
sustained and reliable logistical support. This support
guaranteed the success of all Task Force Eagle’s aviation
assets. Despite harsh weather and unanticipated missions,
the battalion supported the process of bringing peace to a
war-torn area of the world. I feel extremely honored to have
been a part of this mission. A bonus was to have served with
and commanded the 127th Aviation Support Battalion.
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