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

• Heavy weapons platoon from E Company (HMMWVs
with TOW anti-tank weapons, M-19 grenade
launchers, and .50 caliber machine guns);
• Three 105mm howitzers from D Battery with two
TPQ-36 counter-battery radars;
• Scout sniper teams; and
• Advanced Trauma Life Support Team (ATLS) led by
the battalion surgeon.
This package, coupled with the available close air
support, provided the essential combat power to ensure the
security of Tuzla Airbase. However, I would not be
comfortable with the security until the third rifle company
and the remainder of the heavy weapons company arrived
in Tuzla. The planned airflow to insert the remainder of the
ABCT was:
• Day 2: A Company (-), three heavy weapons platoons
from E Company, a TPQ-36 and a TPQ-37 radar
section, and the TF Tactical Operations Center;
• Day 3: Remainder of E Company (Heavy Weapons), A
Company (-), D Battery (-), and Combat Service
Support elements; and
• Day 4: Combat Service Support Elements, and supply
and ammo pallets.
The planned deployment on December 15 was not
executed due to adverse weather in Bosnia. The snow, fog,
and limited instrumentation at Tuzla Airbase prevented
C-130s from landing for 3 days. During this waiting period,
the Blue Falcons conducted rehearsals and squad training,
and rested in the hangers at Aviano Airbase. We were ready
to go, and this delay was frustrating for all of us.
The Transfer of Authority (TOA) between TF EAGLE
and the UNPROFOR was to occur on December 20—in less
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