22                          HUMANITARIAN OPERATIONS IN NORTHERN IRAQ, 1991:


support detachments from il~e 2d FSSG at Camp Lejeune. It contained the
equipment and trained personnel to support an amphibious assault or to become
the MEU's lifeblood on shore. Marine Corps doctrine dictated that MSSG-24 be
organized and equipped to operate using sea-based logistics. Briefly, this meant
MSSG-24 relied on shipborne facilities for maintenance and supply, rather than
bases on the shore. Doctrine anticipated an amphibious campaign conducted close
to the beach, so equipment needed for inland operations or extended periods on
shore was limited. Bulk supplies had to be transported ashore from amphibious
shipping by helicopters or landed from surface craft. The MEU brought only
enough supplies for 15 days of operations on shore, a package called Landing
Force Operational Readiness Material (LFORM). Although this period could be
marginally extended by careful management or reduced demand, any extended
stay on shore required outside support.
    The MSSG-24 commanding officer was Lieutenant Colonel Richard T. Kohl.
Kohl was a logistics specialist with many years of experience. Originally an
infantry officer, he became a rifle battalion logistics officer (S-4) after being
wounded in Vietnam. He became a logistician full time in 1978. Kohl had
experience with logistics units ranging in size from small combat service support
detachments to Fleet Marine Force level. Lieutenant Colonel Kohl had nine
continuous years of service in the Fleet Marine Force. He was assisted by Major
Charles V. Mugno, MS&G-24's executive officer. Mugno knew the ins and outs
of logistics well, and had an excellent eye for detail.~ Unfortunately for MSSG-
24, Mugno would be obliged to attend to other duties during Operation Provide
Comfort. Luckily, Kohl could count on the services of a proficient staff which


                                  A


Marine engineers from MSSG 24 are busy constructing a water distribution point on the banks of
the Khabur River in Central zcLkho. Clearly visible are a portable electrical generator, the Reverse
Osmosis Water Punficaflon Units (ROWPU) hol'ling tanks, and a field antenna. The compound is
protected by a single strand of barbed wire. The Khabur River is a tributary of the famous Tigris
River which runs from the Taurus Mountains through Iraq to the Persian Gulf