3rd Infantry Aviation Brigade Steps Up Fight Against Crime
There has been a persistent area to the south of Baghdad that has remained relatively lawless. Despite frequent patrols and the presence of Army and Coalition troops moving through the area, there have continued to be a spate of criminal activity that has been difficult to keep a hold of.
The fight has been stepped up, with the use of Apache and Kiowa attack helicopters in the fight. Since about March 24th, there have been over 35 enemy criminal fighters that have been killed to support the efforts of ground troops. This recent activity in support of ground troops have served to highlight the stepping of activity against the insurgency, but it is not something new.
“We are always looking for the best way to take the fight to the enemy,” said Colonel Dan Ball. Colonel Ball is the Commander of 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade.
The 3rd CAB brigade has been stationed at the Baghdad Airport since May of 2007, and has been instrumental in leading the fight against the insurgency. They support ground coalition and Iraqi Security forces in the area, from the Euphrates and Tigris Rivers south of Baghdad.
Earlier in this deployment period the fight by the Attack helicopters has been against Al Qaeda cells and safe houses south of Baghdad. But now the fight is more centered on eliminating centralized groups of criminals trying to hide among the citizens.
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Small groups of criminals started to attack both Iraqi Security and Coalition forces. It was at this point that the Kiowa and Apache helicopters were brought on scene.
“It is natural considering the type and style of fighting by these criminal elements for my helicopter units to be used in support of our ground troops,” said Colonel Ball.
