Defining Moments

As TF White Currahee completes 7 months in theater, I can reflect on the highs and lows of our legacy. It most definitely has not been an easy road attempting to facilitate legitimacy in the local and national government as well as separate a resilient enemy from the Afghan populace. The battalion continues to fight a well-equipped and financed enemy that constantly attempts to influence our operational environment through the interdiction of our lines of communication, intimidation tactics against civilians and security forces, and a deliberate information operations campaign saturated with Taliban propaganda and enduring rhetoric. Every single day is a fight to preserve the good in this country and change perceptions regarding security, governance, and development. Through a deliberate partnership with the Afghan security forces, TF WC has maintained the decisive advantage on the battlefield.
As of late, I have been running lots of “errands” throughout our area of operations in an attempt to minimize complacency and gain a better understand and situational awareness of both kinetic and non-kinetic operations. While FOB Orgun-E is very comfortable at times, the monotony of the daily regimen is enough to frustrate and place undue stress on a Soldier. Physical training, cigar smoking, and walkabouts provide the ability to decompress from the rigors of combat.
Task Force White Currahee is comprised of some absolutely amazing Soldiers, Non-Commissioned Officers, and Officers. Having said that, many of those assigned to our TF do some heroic feats each and every day that go un-noticed and barely recognized. One such example is the FST. A Forward Surgical Team is co-located with the TF at FOB Orgun-E that is comprised of surgeons, physician assistants, nurses, and medics. Similar to an ER, the FST receives casualties and patients multiple times a day with a large parameter of injuries from IEDs, direct and indirect fire engagements, UXOs, and non-combat related incidents. Though local nationals, coalition forces, or even an occasional enemy combatant arrive for treatment, these medical professionals treat each patient equally and with the utmost care. I’ve made a concerted effort to be present in the aid station for every US soldier that arrives to provide some sort of comfort during a time of significant trauma and concern. In doing so, I’ve witnessed the passion, dedication, and care that our medical personnel display for each casualty. Not only are they American heroes and have a profound impact on lives of many, but exemplify the goodness in our fight against terrorism.
These are truly trying times for TF WC, but are encouraged by the focus, discipline, and overwhelming character of its Soldiers. While we are justifiably judged by our actions during combat operations, it is comforting to know how the Soldiers in this TF react during defining moments.

Dave