Building Outposts in Helmand Province for Security
In response to insurgent tactics to place IEDs, the mission of 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion recently was to convoy to three designated positions, and build observation posts along the route known as Cowboys. These are just a few more of many OPs that have been built along the notorious route, developing a chain of security leading south along the road. Each post has sight to the next post, and with each new OP comes increased road security.
“Our goal is to get eyes in the structure and to fight and have clear path for us and the people of Afghanistan,” said Staff Sgt. Juan A. Perez, a combat engineer for 2nd CEB. “The people see that were fixing roads and adding protection. It’s good in soo many ways and aspects, and the Marines will have a place if they get engaged.”
Marines worked from early morning to late into the night on a rocky dirt path surrounded by brush, mud houses, and a murky green canal. Shoveling mounds of dirt, placing concertina wire and sawing lumber were just a few of the tasks Marines had to do to build the posts, and although at times fatigue was apparent, the Marines didn’t complain.
“It’s tough but sometimes you just got to push through and get the job done. What gets me through it is seeing everyone come together through that hard work, and getting the mission done,” said Lance Cpl. Sherwin O. Charles, a motor transport operator for 2nd CEB.
Each of the outposts took several hours to create. But after three days of work, three new OPs were completed – manned by infantry Marines. With their work done, 2nd CEB convoyed back to their base on an IED-free route. This is what I like to hear. What about you?
Sgt Stryker – Over and Out.
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Marines Build OPs to Provide Security
Sgt. Jorge A. Lopez, motor transport maintenance for 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion, works with a fellow Marine to build a rooftop for an observation post along route Cowboys, Helmand province, Afghanistan, Jan. 7. During 2nd CEB’s mission on route Cowboys, three OPs were constructed along the road.
A Marine with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion uses a sledge hammer to knock a wooden beam into the ground, for the construction of an observation post on route Cowboys, in Helmand province, Afghanistan, Jan. 6. During their mission on route Cowboys, 2nd CEB constructed three observation posts along the road.
Marines with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion flatten the dirt of a protective wall on a newly constructed observation post on route Cowboys, Helmand province, Afghanistan, Jan. 6. During their mission on route Cowboys, 2nd CEB constructed three observation posts along the road.
Marines with 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion work into the night constructing an observation post along route Cowboys, Helmand province, Afghanistan, Jan. 7. 2nd CEB’s mission included the construction of three observation posts on route Cowboys.