HomeMy WebLinkAbout(S1) KENNETH LOFTIN ODS 2026 FEBRUARY 10, 2026 COUNCIL MEETINGOperation Desert Storm
A Summary of the 1991 Gulf War Campaign
Introduc�on
Operation Desert Storm marked a pivotal moment in military history, representing
the decisive phase of the Gulf War that led to the liberation of Kuwait and the
significant defeat of Iraqi forces. The operation commenced on January 17, 1991,
following months of preparation under Operation Desert Shield.
Air Campaign Launch
At 2:36 AM Baghdad time on January 17, 1991, Task Force Normandy initiated
the air campaign by striking Iraqi radar sites. This task force was composed of nine
Apache helicopters from the U.S. Army's 101st Aviation Regiment, supported by
four Air Force MH-53 Pave Low helicopters. Their attack with 27 Hellfire missiles
and 100 Hydra-70 rockets disabled critical radar and anti-aircraft defenses, opening
a twenty-mile corridor through Iraqi airspace.
This breakthrough allowed U.S. Air Force F-15 fighters, backed by F-111 Ravens,
to enter Iraqi territory with minimal opposition. The subsequent air operations
targeted Iraqi positions and supply lines, significantly weakening the enemy’s
capabilities.
Ground Offensive
The ground war began on February 24, 1991, under challenging weather
conditions. The XVIII Airborne Corps maneuvered around the exposed flank of the
Iraqi Army, while allied forces in the east advanced northward toward Kuwait City.
The Tiger Brigade spearheaded the assault through burning Kuwaiti oil fields, and
by midday, elements of the 101st and 82d Airborne Divisions were deep inside
Iraq.
The VII Corps commenced its attack ahead of schedule, with U.S. soldiers from
the 1st Infantry Division swiftly overtaking Iraqi positions, prompting mass
surrenders. On February 25, the 1st Armored Division defeated the Iraqi 26th
Infantry Division, and the VII Corps shifted eastward. The 24th Infantry Division
advanced 200 miles north to the Euphrates River Valley by noon on February 26,
effectively cutting off a major Iraqi supply route and consolidating allied control.
Victory and Casual�es
The swift and overwhelming success of allied forces led to the rapid collapse of
Iraqi resistance. With the VII Corps prepared to eliminate the remaining
Republican Guard units, a cease-fire prevented further destruction. In just 100
hours, U.S. and coalition ground forces achieved a decisive victory, destroying
over 3,000 tanks, 1,400 armored personnel carriers, and 2,200 artillery pieces. The
cost to the United States was 96 soldiers killed in action.
A�ermath and Humanitarian Efforts
Following the liberation of Kuwait, U.S. forces shifted focus to humanitarian
missions, assisting Kuwaiti citizens in reclaiming and rebuilding their country. The
transition from combat operations to peacekeeping and reconstruction marked a
new chapter, as most coalition units returned home and the long process of
restoring Kuwait began.
Conclusion
Operation Desert Storm demonstrated the effectiveness of coordinated air and
ground operations, leading to a swift victory and the restoration of Kuwaiti
sovereignty. The campaign’s legacy is reflected in its military achievements and
the subsequent humanitarian assistance provided by U.S. and allied forces.