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Desert Storm: The Ground War - Days 4 & 5
The fourth and fifth days of the ground war in Desert Storm saw the US military continue its relentless advance towards Kuwait City. The Battle of Medina Ridge, a key engagement that took place on February 25th, 1991, showcased the US military's superior firepower and tactical prowess. The Iraqi Republican Guard, known for its heavy armor and defense capabilities, put up a fierce resistance, but the US forces ultimately prevailed.
The Battle of Medina Ridge
The Battle of Medina Ridge was a crucial turning point in the ground war. The Iraqi forces had fortified the ridge with tanks, artillery, and anti-aircraft guns, making it a formidable obstacle for the US advance. However, the US military employed a combination of air strikes, artillery bombardments, and ground assaults to overcome the Iraqi defenses. The US Army's 1st Infantry Division, also known as the "Big Red One," played a pivotal role in the battle, using its M1 Abrams tanks and Bradley Fighting Vehicles to outmaneuver and destroy the Iraqi forces.
The battle lasted for several hours and resulted in heavy casualties on both sides. However, the US military's superior firepower and tactics ultimately prevailed, allowing them to secure the Medina Ridge and continue their advance towards Kuwait City.
Liberation of Kuwait City
On February 26th, 1991, the US military, supported by coalition forces, launched a final offensive to liberate Kuwait City. The Iraqi forces, demoralized and outmatched, offered little resistance as the US forces swept through the city. The Kuwaiti people, who had suffered under Iraqi occupation for seven months, cheered the arrival of the US forces.
The liberation of Kuwait City marked the end of the ground war in Desert Storm. The Iraqi forces were routed, and Saddam Hussein's regime was forced to accept a ceasefire. The war had a profound impact on the Middle East, reshaping the political landscape and ushering in a new era of US dominance in the region.
Aftermath of the War
The aftermath of the war saw the establishment of a new Kuwaiti government and the deployment of UN peacekeeping forces to maintain stability in the region. The war also led to the imposition of sanctions on Iraq, which remained in place for many years. The war's legacy continues to be debated, with some arguing that it was a necessary intervention to liberate Kuwait, while others criticize the use of force and its long-term consequences for the region.
The fourth and fifth days of the ground war in Desert Storm were pivotal moments in the conflict. The Battle of Medina Ridge demonstrated the US military's strength and tactical prowess, while the liberation of Kuwait City marked the end of Iraqi occupation and the beginning of a new era for the region. The war's legacy continues to be debated, but it remains a significant event in modern military history.
Key Takeaways
- The Battle of Medina Ridge was a crucial turning point in the ground war, showcasing the US military's superior firepower and tactics.
- The liberation of Kuwait City marked the end of the ground war and the beginning of a new era for the region.
- The war's legacy continues to be debated, with some arguing that it was a necessary intervention, while others criticize the use of force and its long-term consequences.