Everyday marks an anniversary of a significant event in American military history, but today stands out among them.
On this date in 1993, US service members were engaged in what is now known as the Battle of Mogadishu. Elements of TF Ranger, a joint organization, had deployed to Mogadishu, Somalia. Already having conducted operations for some time, on this day, they raided the city’s Olympic Hotel in order to capture key leaders of the Aidid Militia.
Unfortunately, during the exfil portion of the raid, a battle ensued which claimed the lives of 18 Americans and wounded another 73. Additionally, CW3 Michael Durant was captured by the Aideed militia. Fortunately, Durant was later repatriated and went on to retire from the 160th.
Of the men killed that day, two would be awarded the Medal of Honor, Delta Operators Gary Gordon and Randy Shughart, for their selfless efforts to protect Durant after his aircraft, callsign Super 64, was shot down.
If you are unfamiliar with the events, one of the best accounts of the battle is contained in the book, “Blackhawk Down” by author Mark Bowden. Much of the information was serialized prior to the book’s publication in the Philadelphia Enquirer. Later this was made into a movie bearing the same name.
Please take a moment to remember these men and their sacrifice.
Additionally, the 75th Ranger Regiment was created on this day in 1984, with the stand up of its 3rd Battalion. Thirty-five years later, the Ranger Regiment boasts boasts five battalions of some of the most elite warriors on the face of our planet.
Bless the families of all the 18 Americans that died that day, to my fellow Bco Rangers we have never forgotten you and still honor your memories in the flagship company of 3/75. The lessons learned from that tragic day has saved so many lives. 1B, RLTW
To the 19 warriors who died in the Mog- you are not forgotten. Two days after the battle ended, a mortar landed in the U.S. compound, killing Delta SFC Matt Rierson, who was the 19th casualty.
Read David Kilcullen’s account in Out of the Mountains.
I Spy Rick Kaiser from DevGru 🙂
To Remembrance
I’m not sure there are words to describe these 2 men in particular. I get chills every time I look at a photo of them or see that part of the movie. Knowing you are probably going to die, but being willing to do that fucking blows my mind.
I was lucky enough to fight alongside many great worriers 26years ago on this day. R. I. P. To those we lost.