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Mogadishu Essay

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History Essay on Operation Gothic Serpent

Abstract

Operation Gothic Serpent in Oct 1993 in Mogadishu, Somalia has been labeled one of the bloodiest firefights for United States troops. It has also arguably been remembered as one of the U.S. military’s blunders. Although the majority of Americans were disgusted and outraged by the failed operation, it can be used as a tool to study the vital role of NCOs and force readiness.

History Essay on Operation Gothic Serpent

One of the most widely debated issues in American politics is what specific role the United States should take in world crises. Some would argue that it is the US’s responsibility to promote and defend …show more content…

Mogadishu was a city in practical ruins from years of civil war. Infrastructure was badly damaged or totally destroyed. Despite living in deplorable conditions, the Somalis fought unpredictably hard to fight off UN and US forces. The majority of the soldiers, albeit very well trained, were very young with little real world experience. Eager to quickly neutralize the enemy and secure the targets, several contingencies were overlooked. Egotism between two very elite forces caused rifts among troops as well. Ground convoys could not reach the downed helicopters. Intelligence sources also greatly underestimated the type and amount of weaponry. Others believed that they would encounter less hostile Somalis that would be more sympathetic to the mission of the UN and US. Forces encountered on the ground fought with veracity. It is arguable that the true nature of the operation from a humanitarian mission to a capture mission made certain resources unavailable to the troops. Furthermore, planners should have taken advantages of available technology and avoided a daytime mission.

As in any battle in history, enlisted personnel play a vital role. NCOs are an integral part in all militaries. By virtue of their rank and assignment, NCOs primary responsibility is training. Secondary to training, responsibilities include maintaining discipline, protecting assets, ensuring

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