CONTINGENCY OPERATING SITE HUNTER, Iraq- Forward Support Companies routinely hit the pavement delivering critical supplies to units remotely stationed in rural southern Maysan province.
“I’ve been on enough patrols to know how important our mission is,” said Pfc. Seth Morgan, a light-wheeled vehicle mechanic from Fruitland, Idaho, assigned to Delta Forward Support Company, 121st Brigade Support Battalion.
Each combat logistics patrol enables commanders to continue joint operations with Iraqi Security Forces along the Iraqi border. “The troops we support need food, supplies and equipment to fulfill their missions,” said Morgan. “We get them what they need.”
Delta FSC, attached to 2nd Squadron, 13th Cavalry Regiment, is responsible for accomplishing this ever-important task. Covering more than 500 miles per week, they understand the complexity of each mission. Every trip offers unique challenges for Soldiers to remain alert as environments and conditions vary through villages, marshes and deserts.
To ensure safety on the road, Spc. Derek Davies, a Bradley fighting vehicle system maintenance technician from Mansfield, Ohio, said, “We always practice battle drills before missions and report everything we see while on the road.” Clearing roads is simplified by the addition of flood lights on the lead truck of a convoy.
The unit tested their tactical proficiency when an explosively formed projectile detonated on one of their convoys, disabling a vehicle. Events like these act as a firm reminder of the inherent risks associated with their mission. They also illustrate the importance of maintaining situational awareness and combat readiness.
But Delta doesn’t just run convoys to supply Soldiers. Their team of mechanics is also responsible for supporting all vehicles and equipment on Contingency Operating Site Hunter and the surrounding stations.
“We’ve been fortunate to have an excellent section of mechanics, ready to assist with any type of mechanical issue,” said Sgt. 1st Class John Ochoa, maintenance section noncommissioned officer from Tucson, Ariz.
“It’s our job to keep (Cavalry) on the road, allowing them to focus on their mission and not on their vehicle,” added Ochoa.
Completing more than 150 unscheduled maintenance work orders since assuming control in May, Delta mechanics continue to provide pivotal support in weekly logistical operations.
Second Squadron, 13th Cavalry Regiment is deployed to advise and assist the Iraqi Security Forces. This mission is made possible by the logistics warriors traveling across the open roads, providing critical supplies and logistics support to units in remote stations.
