Increased Convoy Activity as Operation New Dawn Concludes
The number of convoys departing from Iraq is increasing daily as Operation New Dawn approaches its conclusion.
According to Army Staff Sgt. Erick Torres, convoy commander of the 233rd Transportation Company, October has been particularly hectic, with numerous military units on base preparing to ship their equipment back home.
“The most difficult aspect of this role is loading the vehicles,” mentioned Torres, who is from Phenix City, Alabama.
He explained that convoys consisting of vehicles and equipment are being organized and dispatched as part of the final exit preparations from Iraq.
Flatbed trucks, carrying Humvees, tanks, and mine-resistant vehicles, line up to a ramp where the loading process takes place. Torres noted that once everything is loaded and the necessary paperwork is finalized, the convoy gathers at a staging area before leaving.
Torres also pointed out that there is a significant amount of equipment that needs to be transported before the year concludes, prompting soldiers and civilian contractors to work extended hours to ensure everything is packed accurately and ready for shipping.
One key responsibility for a convoy commander, according to Torres, involves confirming the serial numbers of vehicles and equipment against unit rosters prior to shipment. While this makes for long days, he emphasizes that it is a vital part of the process.
Story by Army Spc. Anthony T Zane, 362nd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
