OPERATIONS DESERT SHIELD 82D ENGINEER BATTALION 28 AUG 91

File: 971208_sep96_decls2_0015.txt
Page: 0015
Total Pages: 57
Subject = OPERATIONS DESERT SHIELD    82D ENGINEER BATTALION  28 AUG 91   

Box ID = BX000301

Folder Title = 82D ENG BN AFTER ACTION REVIEW COMMENTS  5 APR 91                                               

Unit = VII CORPS   

Parent Org = ARCENT      






            05 Jan 91: CSM Henson goes to Dammam with a 40 ton tractor trailer
            to pickup an order for the Dynamite Base PX. The 7th EN Brigade
            hold a Commanders' meeting. The staff presents a coarse of actions
            briefing to the Commmander.


            06 Jan 91: CSM Henson and M916 and trailer arrive back from Port
            with items for Dynamite Base PX. Demonstration Number 2 of the
            Rapid Deployment Sled (a.k.a. 'Schnorrbusch Sled') is set for
            today. The bangalores are reinforced with metal rods welded every
            few feet. The RDS makes a successful run. A Company joins 2/2 ACR
            for the first maneuver training conducted in the Regiment. The
            three day FTX focuses on Squadron maneuver and offensive battle
            drills. A Company perfects its company wedge formation, with
            platoons in diamond. Wheeled vehicles are integrated into the
            Squadron field and combat trains.


            07 Jan 91: The Dynamite Base FN annex has its Graid Opening. 2ACR
            CPX OPORD is issued to Company Commanders. The Battalion receives
            an OPORD from 2ACR for the defense of LBA. In case of a preemptive
            strike, Blue Babe and the 2ACR are the only combat units in sector.


            08 Jan 91: D Company sends dozers, bucket loaders, and SEE to the
            87th Maintenance Battalion to assist in the construction of a
            perimeter berm and survivability positions. The mission is
            completed on the gth.


            10 Jan 91: AiLno, which previously was issued and held by squad
            leaders, is issued to soldier level. B Company sends a SEE out for
            the day to construct survivability positions for the 87th Chemical
            Company. The Battalion deploys for a CPX.


            11 Jan 91: Battalion participates with 2ACR in a CPX. 2ACR sets up
            a SIMCTR and the Companies send out their TOC. HHC's participation
            is the Battalion TOC, ALOC, and company operations. The exercise
            plan used is tailored after a possible scenario for upcoming future
            operations. The CPX is fast and furious. It seems that the 2ACR
            is literally racing toward BASRAH. Spot reports become so numerous
            that they are difficult to manage. The Iraqi forces utilize
            chemical munitions and more than half of a line company becomes
            casualties after being caught in an artillery barrage.


            12 Jan 91: Commander attends 7th EN Brigade meeting.


            13 Jan 91: TIUMINT sources report that Iraq will launch a preemptive
            attack tomorrow at 0300. The CPX is cut short and the Battalion
            moves back to the base camp. The move back is during the evening
            in a torrential rain. It takes 3-1/2 hours to go 17 milesl