34                                U.S. MARINES IN THE PERSIAN GULF, 1990-1 991


heavy armored power around the division's flank and help to pull the remainder
of the division through. Although this was not needed in the end, it was an
important contingency to anticipate.
    Within an hour of beginning its operation, the 2d LAl Battalion was in
contact with the enemy. Mortar fire was received, and in one of the more
dramatic incidents of the operation, a HMMWV carrying a low-altitude air
defense team attached to the battalion received a direct hit.1~ The round
impacted in the rear of the vehicle, the force of the explosion pushing the
occupants, Lance Corporal Robert M. Grady and Lance Corporal William B.
Noland, across the hood, from which they rolled onto the sand. Although the
vehicle was destroyed, both Marines were unhurt, emerging from the wreck
literally without a scratch. Apparently their personal gear and other equipment,
piled behind them, absorbed the effects of the blast. After returning to the
division CP and briefing General Keys, their only request was for another
vehicle so they could return to the fight.
    The actions of Company C, 2d LAl Battalion are illustrative of those of the
entire battalion at this time. Commanded by Captain Kenneth W.  Amidon, the


                                     Department of Defense Photo (USMC) 0338 7 91
Capt Kenneth W. Amidon, commanding officer of Company C, 2d LightAnnored infantry
Battalion, holds an orders group with platoon leaders during the movement into Kuwait.