AAR 1ST MARDIV IN SWA

File: 970725_dec96_decls34_0066.txt
Page: 0066
Total Pages: 130
Subject = AAR  1ST MARDIV IN SWA                                          

Parent Organization = MCCDC       

Unit = WDID        

Folder Title = AFTER ACTION REPORT 1ST MARINE DIVISION IN SOUTHWEST ASIA   WDID SWA 0073                       

Document Number =          1

Box ID = BX600145


                                 UNCLASSIFIED




                           ANECDOTE FROM THE  SECOND OBOTACLE  BREACH

              The command group Alpha convoy moved at a slow rate through the
            central portion of Burqan Oil Field.    It was late at night.    Vision
            was obscured gs a result of the soot and smoke from the blown
            oilwell heads.   As our vehicle continued to lead the convoy, a small
            light was spotted to the east.    Momentarily after the xichtinc, a
            human whistle sounded.   The convoy halted as several Iraqi soldierr
            approached waiving white flacs.    Security wau quickly set out alonc
            the flanks while in excess O'@@ two hundred surrendering Iraqi
            soldiers were formed into a group. One of the soldiers initially
            sighted kept waiving his hand. He was a captain and spoke onglish
            well. Relief and cooperation best described their reaction to beini
            captured by Marines. Further explanation from the Iraqi captain
            revealed that his group represented remnants of numerous units and
            that they were previously captured that afternoon and told to head
            south.  Of course, by that time they weri hunqxry, thirsty, and
            nervous about further engagements.    Colonel Admire directed 14RE's
            and water to be passed out to each EPW, medical care to be given to
            the injured, and documentation completed.     It was obvious that we
            could not transport this group of EPW's due to the size and lack of
            vehicles. The look on the face of each Iraqi soldier that coulc
            comprehend beine left behind, was one of utter disappointment.

                      Submitted by Capt R. C. Burge, HO 3dMAR Reat S-2





























                                     UNCLASSIFIED