Flying with the 101st Combat Aviation Brigade in Iraq, 2003

During my time in Iraq, there was one group of people who stood out for their extraordinary dedication and skill—the pilots of the 101st Combat Aviation Brigade. These aviators played a crucial role in keeping us moving across the country, allowing us to avoid many of the dangers and challenges faced by ground convoys. Whether it was moving between bases, scouting potential new locations for troops, or delivering supplies, the 101st’s contribution was indispensable to our mission and the success of coalition operations in Iraq.

The 101st Combat Aviation Brigade was a part of the legendary 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), and in 2003, they were vital to the rapid advance of coalition forces during the invasion of Iraq. Their helicopters—Black Hawks, Apaches, and Chinooks—provided air mobility that gave coalition troops a significant tactical advantage over the enemy. The brigade played a critical role in air assaults, troop transportation, reconnaissance, and medical evacuation missions, ensuring that ground forces had the support they needed to push deeper into hostile territory.

In the early days of Operation Iraqi Freedom, the brigade was instrumental in key engagements like the Battle of Karbala, providing air support and transport that allowed coalition forces to secure vital infrastructure and move swiftly towards Baghdad. Their ability to insert troops into combat zones quickly and efficiently helped maintain the momentum of the ground invasion, while their air cover ensured that coalition troops could outmaneuver insurgent forces.

For those of us on the ground, flying with the 101st was more than just a way to get from one place to another—it was a lifeline. The terrain in Iraq was challenging, and the threat of roadside IEDs and ambushes made ground convoys incredibly dangerous. Thanks to the Witchdoctors, we were able to avoid many of these hazards, moving quickly and safely between bases and operational sites. Whether we were heading out to check potential locations for new bases or transporting vital supplies, the 101st kept us on the move and out of harm’s way.

Their professionalism and efficiency were unmatched. I’ll never forget the sense of security that came with flying in one of their helicopters, knowing that these pilots had our backs. Their knowledge of the terrain, their quick decision-making, and their ability to navigate even the most challenging conditions allowed us to focus on the mission ahead. They didn’t just transport us—they ensured that we could do our jobs effectively and safely.

I am incredibly grateful to the entire 101st Combat Aviation Brigade. Without their expertise and support, our mission would have been far more difficult and dangerous. They allowed us to avoid many of the challenges faced by ground convoys, helping us bypass the IEDs, ambushes, and other threats that plagued the roads of Iraq. Thanks to them, we could move swiftly and effectively, staying one step ahead of the enemy and ensuring that we could focus on our objectives.

Flying with the 101st wasn’t just about getting from point A to point B—it was about teamwork, trust, and resilience in the face of adversity. Their efforts were a vital part of the broader mission in Iraq, and for that, I’ll always be grateful. Hats off to these incredible pilots who kept us moving and made the mission possible.