Army in the Gulf War: Ausa - The Unsung Heroes

When we think about the Gulf War, the first thing that comes to mind is the massive military operation led by the United States. However, it is often forgotten that there were other nations who played a vital role in this conflict. One such country was Australia, whose army - the Ausa - contributed significantly to the success of the international coalition against Iraq. In this article, we will take a closer look at the Ausa's involvement in the Gulf War and explore the heroic acts performed by these unsung heroes.

The Role of Ausa in the Gulf War

The Ausa, officially known as the Australian Defence Force, joined the coalition forces in the Gulf War as one of the many countries committed to liberating Kuwait from the Iraqi invasion. Australia's involvement began in August 1990 when the conflict escalated, and Iraq's aggression became a threat to regional stability.

The initial contribution from Ausa was in the form of military advisors and liaison officers who worked closely with their allied counterparts. However, as the situation worsened, Australia decided to deploy ground forces, including infantry battalions, armored units, and special forces, to support the coalition's efforts. In total, more than 2,000 Ausa personnel were stationed in the Gulf region during the war.

Certain Victory: The U.S. Army in the Gulf War: U.S.Army in the Gulf War (Ausa Book)

by A. Naomi Paik (Kindle Edition)

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Language	:	English
File size	:	7075 KB
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The Ausa's involvement extended beyond combat operations. They also provided valuable support in areas such as logistics, intelligence gathering, engineering, and medical assistance. Their expertise in these fields proved instrumental in maintaining the coalition's operational effectiveness.

The Unsung Heroes of Ausa

While the US-led coalition received most of the media attention during the Gulf War, it is crucial to recognize the bravery and dedication displayed by the Ausa personnel on the ground. Despite being a relatively small force compared to the US and other larger nations, the Ausa soldiers played a significant role in several key operations.

Battle of Wadi Al Batin

One of the most notable contributions of the Ausa was their participation in the Battle of Wadi Al Batin. This was a crucial battle that took place in northeastern Saudi Arabia, where the coalition forces faced stiff resistance from Iraqi troops. The Ausa soldiers conducted several successful maneuver operations, providing critical support to allied forces and eventually helping to push back the Iraqi army.

During this intense battle, the Ausa soldiers demonstrated exceptional combat skills and resilience, often operating in challenging desert conditions. Their ability to adapt quickly to changing circumstances and work seamlessly with their coalition partners proved crucial in gaining the upper hand against the enemy.

Mine Clearance and Explosive Ordnance Disposal

Another area where the Ausa made a significant impact was in mine clearance and explosive ordnance disposal. In a war-torn region littered with landmines and unexploded ordnance, the Ausa's specialized teams played a vital role in identifying and neutralizing these threats.

Their expertise in this field not only ensured the safety of coalition forces but also helped in the post-war reconstruction efforts. By clearing mines and unexploded ordnance, the Ausa soldiers enabled humanitarian organizations to provide vital assistance to the local population and facilitated the return of normalcy in the region.

Humanitarian Assistance

It is important to note that the Ausa's involvement was not limited to military combat. They also actively participated in delivering humanitarian assistance to the war-affected civilians. The Ausa soldiers were instrumental in distributing food, medical supplies, and other essentials to the people who had been displaced or affected by the conflict.

Their presence on the ground and close coordination with humanitarian organizations allowed them to make a significant positive impact on the lives of those who were suffering due to the war. Their efforts in this aspect of the Gulf War demonstrated their commitment not just to military objectives but also to the well-being of the people of the region.

The Legacy of Ausa's Contribution

Despite their significant contributions, the Ausa's involvement in the Gulf War often goes unnoticed. It is unfortunate that the media focus was primarily on the larger coalition forces, overshadowing the bravery and sacrifices made by the Ausa soldiers.

However, the legacy of their contribution lives on. Their invaluable support and selfless dedication in the Gulf War showcased the professionalism and capabilities of the Ausa. Their efforts strengthened the bond between Australia and its allies and cemented their reputation as a reliable and dependable partner.

The Ausa's involvement in the Gulf War also had a lasting impact on Australia's defense policies and capabilities. Lessons learned from this conflict led to significant changes in the country's military strategies and equipment acquisitions, ensuring its readiness for future conflicts.

In

As we reflect on the Gulf War, it is essential to acknowledge the crucial role played by the Ausa - the unsung heroes who fought alongside their allies. Their bravery, expertise, and dedication during those tumultuous days in the desert deserve our utmost respect and gratitude.

Their achievements in the Battle of Wadi Al Batin, mine clearance, explosive ordnance disposal, and humanitarian assistance are worthy of recognition and should serve as an inspiration to future generations of soldiers. The Ausa may have been the forgotten heroes of the Gulf War, but their legacy will continue to live on for years to come.

Certain Victory: The U.S. Army in the Gulf War: U.S.Army in the Gulf War (Ausa Book)

by A. Naomi Paik (Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	7075 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	224 pages

FREE

The official U.S. Army account of Army performance in the Gulf War, Certain Victory was originally published by the Office of the Chief of Staff, U.S. Army, in 1993. Brig. Gen. Scales, who headed the Army's Desert Storm Study Project, offers a highly readable and abundantly illustrated chronicle.