"...the next thing we knew..."

Courtesy Photo | CAMP ARIFIJAN, Kuwait (November 8, 2006) -- Civilians load a Marine aircraft during their evacuation from Lebanon during the 34 day war between Israel and Hezbollah.  

CAMP ARIFJAN, KUWAIT

11.08.2006

Story by Spc. Deborah Ledesma 

40th Public Affairs Detachment

By Spc. Debrah Robertson
Desert Voice Staff Writer/40th Public Affairs Detachment

CAMP ARIFJAN, Kuwait (November 8, 2006) --- When Maj. Roderick Riley, a country
desk officer for Civil International Military Affairs, arrived in Beirut, Lebanon, he would describe it as "a beautiful city that had just recovered from a perilous civil war."

"It's Eurocentric with beautiful pastel," said Riley. "It's like Paris, but cleaner."

Then, three days into their mission in Lebanon, they received a call from the U.S. Embassy in Lebanon. "Two Israeli soldiers had been kidnapped. Return [to Kuwait] ASAP!"

"We didn't think anything of it, but then the next thing we knew, rounds were coming in on us," said Riley.

Sent to Lebanon to conduct an infantry seminar for the Lebanese army, the team of five was enthusiastic about their mission.

"Under the umbrella of the Theater Security Cooperation, we are tasked to conduct events with countries in the [area of operation]," said Riley, "and to foster better relationships."

"We made great strides while we were there," said Riley. "We were there to strengthen the Lebanese army so that the Lebanese people wouldn't have to depend on Hezbollah for protection."

The seminar focused on infantry tactics, techniques and procedures, said Col. Tom Crowder, the C9 forward for Third Army/ USARCENT. When the war began, the seminar had to be curtailed.

The seminar was about 80 percent finished when the group was gathered and locked in the U.S. Embassy for seven days before being evacuated to Cyprus, said Crowder.

Among the first flight of U.S. citizens to be evacuated, Riley and his team helped to load the Marine helicopter tasked with the duty.

"It was a very stressful time," said Riley. The civilians being loaded onto the helicopter were scared.

"One child became sick," said Riley. "Luckily, I had Pepto-Bismol in my bag.

"Hundreds of people were lined up outside the embassy. Everyone wanted to get a visa or green card, but they couldn't get out," he added.

Marines were sent in to aid in the evacuation after the airport had been bombed.

"Israel suspected Hezbollah was being re-armed through the airport," said Riley.

The evacuation had to be conducted using military helicopters and boats.

"We made great strides while there. Now, after the war is over, we may have to start over [with our mission]," said Riley.

"When Lebanon 'opens up' again for security operations, we will reengage the program," said Crowder.

"The U.S. Embassy still has a relationship with Lebanon," said Riley. "The lines of communication are still open."

• Date Taken: 11.08.2006
• Date Posted: 11.13.2006 12:12
• Story ID: 8249
• Location: CAMP ARIFJAN, KW