Jim Blackburn

Bengal 6

 

Fellow Blackhorse Veterans,

The Ironhorse Squadron continues to push the terrorists into the hinterland of irrelevancy while pulling the locals of the fence and into the future.  Since our last update in May, 1/11 ACR has moved to a new area of operations in the western part of Abu Ghraib.  We immediately got to work and have continued to build on the superb legacy that you made in Vietnam.  Every second, our Troopers continue to take the fight to enemy’s doorstep. 

           During the past five months, 1/11th ACR has successfully in integrated our non-lethal fight to complement what the Regiment is used to doing best – Find The Bastards And Piling On!  In doing so, we have conducted five Medical Civilian Assistance Program (MEDCAP) visits treating over 1,200 patients, distributed over 40,000 pieces of humanitarian assistance such as chickens, toys school supplies, hygiene projects and medical supplies to the local populace.  These efforts have “broken the ice” with many local nationals who are now more comfortable giving our Troopers actionable intelligence. 

Additionally, we have been working with an Iraqi Army Battalion that had limited combat experience in Fallujah with the United States Marine Corps.  Under our steady hand, they have developed into a force that is now capable of operating in their own battlespace.  Their introduction into the urban centers of Abu Ghraib has made significant strides in accomplishing our mission.  Our combined operations with the Iraqi Army have resulted in the detention of 175 individuals and the capture of over 25 weapons caches by TF 1/11th ACR Troopers. 

           Finally, I wanted to thank Blackhorse Production’s own Gerry Williamson and Eric Newton for their visit to 1st Squadron earlier this month.  We appreciate their efforts to preserve the fine history of the Blackhorse’s actions in Iraq.  While here, they saw some of the daily contact that our Troopers have experienced over the past nine months.  Their visit had a significant impact on the Troopers morale as they shared their stories of Vietnam with the newest generation of Blackhorse Veterans.  I am truly honored to be serving in with these fine Troopers and proud to participate in the writing of the next chapter of Blackhorse history!

 

Allons!

 

Jim Blackburn

Bengal 6