Operation
Laser Strike
Pacullpa,
Peru
1996
Operation Laser Strike was a counter narcotics
operation headed up by Southern Command in Panama. Commanded by Major
Bob Cole and Master Sergeant Chris Diggons, units from 2d Marine Division
(2d SRIG & 7th Comm Bn.) and 2d Marine Aircraft Wing (MACG-28, MACS-6,
MWCS-28, 2d LAAD, MASS-2, & MTACS-28) were ordered to Pacullpa, Peru
in April, 1996. The GO/NO GO games lasted until August before we finally
went. We headed to Howard AFB in Panama to stage out of (directly attached
to the Air Force's 612th Tactical Aircraft Group) and flew to Peru in a
combination of Air Force, Air Force Reserve, Air National Guard, and Southern
Air Transport (?) C-130s during the first week. Once we got there we all
got busy setting up equipment and building fighting positions. We were
assisted by host nation air control liaison and our security was augmented
by Peruvian Air Force (FAP), all under the command of Comandante Oviedo.
Our mission was to integrate into an air, land, and sea radar surveillance
command and control system to identify airborne narco traffickers.
Me at the front gate.
Me at security post #1.
Me and HM3Volbrecht in front of the chow hall.
Utilities Section.
GySgt Roberto Quinones & me in the Compound.
GySgt Quinones & me receiving awards from Maj Bob Cole & MSgt Chris
Diggons.
Comm Section
Hootches
AN/TPS-59 Surveillance Radar
Deluxe Accommodations, Field Expedient Urinal.