For centuries Afghanistan has found itself stuck in the middle of war and conflict. Still despite topping the news cycle early on in the Global War on Terror (that is not over by the way) many have little insight as to what it is like to deploy, live and operate in the war torn country. The following pages will give you a glimpse into just what a day in the life of a US patriot in Afghanistan is as well as the dangerous terrain in which they operate.
Terrain: Contrary to many beliefs, Afghanistan is not a giant desert. The terrain in the war torn country is extremely diverse and often times difficult for even the most skilled mountaineer. The Hindu Kush mountains stretch along the Afghanistan/Pakistan border and maintain some of the highest peaks in the world. Their highest point, Terichmir, is found across the Afghan border in the violent, Taliban controlled district of Chitral. Its peak tops out at 25,289 ft.
Don’t trust us on the terrain? Take a peek from these F-15E Strike Eagles. With the rugged terrain in Afghanistan and higher elevations comes frigid temperatures and snow-capped peaks. You may sweat a lot in Afghanistan, but some of our coldest winters were spent in Afghanistan.
Yes, the terrain is that bad: This HUMVEE patrol through Afghanistan’s rugged terrain is a good illustration of the difficulties one faces while hunting the enemy. Possible locations for enemy fighters and ambushes are unlimited, not to mention the dangers of simply driving on narrow mountain passes.
Bagram Airfield: If you have deployed to Afghanistan, odds are you have transited through Bagram Airfield, the largest base in country. This sprawling compound serves as the hub for major US military and government operations and helps distribute materials and personnel to Forward Operating Bases throughout the country. Above a C-17 Globemaster takes off into the Afghan skies with the aforementioned rugged terrain dead ahead.
CH-47 Chinook: Another right of passage is your first ride on the CH-47 Chinook. Sure, the US military has other rotor craft but the flying school bus (as it’s referred to) still dominates the skies in Afghanistan. The tandem rotor heavy lift Chinook isn’t going to win a race, but it serves as a solid troop and equipment transport platform. That said, several tragedies have occurred with the Chinook as its easily targeted by Taliban members on the ground.
The rear gunner’s view from a CH-47 Chinook in Afghanistan. Yes, I took the picture and yes we made a hard landing on a remote farm after a mechanical failure on this very flight…oh the memories.
That farm looked something like this. Trust me, the farmers were as surprised as we were to make a stop on their property.
