Earthpigs last convoy

Photo By Spc. Mathew Schlueter | Capt. Peter DeCrans, commander of Charlie Company, 1/34th Brigade Special Troops Battalion, attached to the 1st Squadron, 94th Cavalry, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 34th infantry Division “Red Bulls” speaks to his soldiers and congratulates them on a job well done.  

CAMP BUEHRING, KUWAIT

12.15.2011

Courtesy Story

1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 34th Red Bull Infantry Division

CAMP BUEHRING, Kuwait - Second Platoon of Charlie Company, 1/34th Brigade Special Troops Battalion, attached to the 1st Squadron, 94th Cavalry Regiment, return to Camp Buehring, Kuwait, Dec. 15 to mark the end of the company’s mission into Iraq.

Upon completion of their mission, 10 gun trucks operated by 2nd Platoon soldiers of Charlie Company, 1/34th BSTB drove into their home station at Camp Buehring, Kuwait.

Having been given orders to go directly to the Armor of God, a large overhang in which pre-mission inspections are completed, the soldiers cleared their weapons and proceeded down the gravel road. As they made their turn, chemical luminescent sticks (chem-sticks) whirled around on strings above the remaining Charlie Company soldiers' heads who lined the 200 meter path to the overhang. Many chem-sticks were thrown onto the trucks, giving them an ever green glow.

The trucks pulled in and as the soldiers exited their mine resistant armor protected vehicles they were greeted with handshakes, smiles, and music. Each member of the company was afforded one non-alcoholic beverage and some supplied themselves with congratulatory cigars.

After some brief socializing, the company commander, Capt. Peter DeCrans, called everyone to gather around him. Capt. DeCrans explained the nature of the celebration to the company.

The return of 2nd Platoon had marked the completion of the company’s final convoy escort mission to Iraq. The squadron compiled over one million miles and moved thousands of truck loads out of the combat zone. The mission was declared a great success and milestone in the history of the unit.

After the gathering, the soldiers lingered a while to exchange stories and enjoy the celebration. With much still to do, the returning platoon continued on with their typical after-mission routines of fueling up and parking the trucks, unloading gear, and turning in sensitive items.

With convoy operations completed by Dec. 31, the company will look to focus on training for the remainder of the tour. Proficiency in weapons, warrior, and military occupation specialty skills will be emphasized.

• Date Taken: 12.15.2011
• Date Posted: 01.05.2012 06:37
• Story ID: 82036
• Location: CAMP BUEHRING, KW