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Challenges of the wilderness

Dec-26-2005 » Filed Under: 172nd SBCT

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By MARGARET FRIEDENAUER, News-Miner

RAWAH, IRAQ--In some ways, Combat Outpost Rawah is a rather appropriate setting for the 4th Squadron, 14th Cavalry of the 172nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team. They come from the state dubbed "The Last Frontier," an equally suitable title for this area of Iraq that remains one of the most active regions in the country for enemy activity.

Most of the brigade is located in and around the Mosul area on large bases with adequate amenities. They patrol urban neighborhoods that have seen dramatic decreases in enemy activity and have worked hand-in-hand with up-and-coming Iraqi army and police.

But the 4-14 is responsible, along with a joint task force of marines, sailors and airmen, for an area of Western Iraq that encompasses 28,000 square kilometers throughout the Euphrates River Valley, along with 68 kilometers of the Syrian border. This area is rural, desolate desert with austere living conditions. And here, the battle still rages.

"We're about 18 months behind where Mosul is right now as far as security," Lt. Col. Mark Freitag said. "It's a different fight. It's not even close."

Sand and explosives

The 4-14 arrived here four months ago to an outpost that was just being created. There were a few wooden buildings used for the operational center and command offices. Mostly there were tents for sleeping, mobile units for eating and sand enough for all. Now there are a few more buildings and amenities, but there is still no running water or paved walkways. It's more difficult than at other bases to call and e-mail home. [...]


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