BAGHDAD, Iraq – Over 200 service members from across Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve and NATO Mission Iraq honored those that served in the Battle of Mogadishu during the annual Mogadishu Mile, Oct. 4.
In 1993, following the notable “Black Hawk Down” incident and the operation’s exfiltration, Soldiers were required to move on foot under intense enemy gunfire. Their route became known as the Mogadishu Mile.
Lt. Col. Max Ferguson, commander of 2nd Battalion, 14th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (LI), addressed the participants prior to embarking on the 2.14 mile course.
“As you look to your left and right, this event is not about finishing first, it’s about remembering and honoring those heroes from the Battle of Mogadishu, and finishing together,” said Ferguson.
Soldiers from other nations felt a strong sense of camaraderie participating alongside their American counterparts.
“I felt proud to finish the course, not only representing my nation’s flag, but to participate with everyone in this Coalition was an honor,” said Soldad de Primera (Pfc.) Banuar, Banuar, a sniper with the Spanish Army.
This year marks 30 years since the Battle of Mogadishu, which was chronicled in the book, “Black Hawk Down: A Story of Modern Warfare” and the 2001 movie, “Black Hawk Down.”
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