The Untold Story of US Marines at Camp Bastion, Afghanistan, 2012

The Scuttlebutt: Understanding Military Culture

We welcome journalist Jeanne McKinney to shine a light on a little-known episode of the war in Afghanistan that illuminates the larger political, social, and military landscape of our longest war.

Jeanne’s book, Triumph Over the Taliban: The Untold Story of US Marines’ Courageous Fight to Save Camp Bastion, tells the story of September 12, 2012, in Helmand Province, Afghanistan when an attack on Camp Bastion, a critical forward operating base, showcased the resilience, bravery, and strategic acumen of the US Marines.

Camp Bastion was a massive military base established by the British and later expanded to include US Marines and Afghan forces. Spanning 40 square miles with a 25-mile fence line, the base was situated in one of the most volatile regions of Afghanistan. The base’s sheer size and strategic importance made it a prime target for the Taliban, who were deeply entrenched in the surrounding poppy fields, a key source of their funding.

The Taliban meticulously planned their assault on Camp Bastion for over a year. Originally scheduled for July 2012, the attack was postponed due to an accidental explosion during training. The final assault was executed on a particularly dark night, leveraging the element of surprise. Fifteen Taliban fighters infiltrated the base, aiming to destroy aircraft and kill as many Marines as possible.

What made this attack unique was the Taliban’s approach. Unlike their usual tactics of using suicide bombers and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), this was a ground assault. The fighters carried rifles and RPGs, prepared for direct combat—a rare and bold move for the Taliban.

The Marines stationed at Camp Bastion demonstrated exceptional valor and quick thinking. Upon hearing the initial explosions, they initially assumed it was a controlled detonation. However, they quickly realized the gravity of the situation and sprang into action. Despite the chaos and darkness, the Marines mobilized, formed defensive positions, and protected civilians on the base.

One of the most remarkable aspects of their response was the transition of Aviation Marines into infantry roles. Trained to handle crises, they put down their wrenches and picked up rifles, showcasing the versatility and preparedness ingrained in Marine training. Their swift and coordinated actions prevented what could have been a catastrophic loss of life and equipment.

The attack on Camp Bastion occurred three days after the Benghazi attack, which dominated the news cycle. As a result, this significant event did not receive the attention it deserved. Media reports often focused on the blame game, targeting two Marine generals for security lapses. This narrative overshadowed the heroism displayed by the Marines on the ground.

At the time, there was a push to downsize the military presence in Afghanistan, leading to reduced security measures at bases like Camp Bastion. The generals on the ground, aware of the vulnerabilities, requested additional resources and security enhancements, but these were denied due to political considerations.

This incident underscores the broader issue of how military decisions are often influenced by political agendas, sometimes at the expense of on-ground safety and effectiveness. The attack on Camp Bastion serves as a stark reminder of the need for robust security measures and the importance of listening to military leaders who understand the complexities of the battlefield.

The attack on Camp Bastion is a powerful example of military courage and the complexities of modern warfare. It highlights the importance of readiness, the impact of political decisions on military operations, and the need to honor and recognize the sacrifices of those who serve. As we reflect on this event, it serves as a reminder of the bravery of the US Marines and the enduring spirit of those who stand on the front lines to protect our freedoms.

We’re grateful to UPMC for Life and Tobacco Free Adagio Health for sponsoring this event!

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