A Battlefield Tourist

A Battlefield Tour of Musa Qala District Center

Apr 13 at 3:03pm by David Tate

3/8 Marine on patrol in Musa Qala, Helmand Province

In mid-February I was invited to go to Musa Qala, Helmand Province and embed with 3/8 Marines who make up the Police Mentoring Team (PMT) there.  These Marines come from a variety of places throughout the battalion, including from the battalion commanders own Personal Security Detatchment.

The mission here is basically a legacy mission that began when the preceding Marine unit came here to help pacify the district center.  Since then, 3/8 Marines have been strict on their mission of training and mentoring the Afghan National Police who secure the District Center.  For 7km in each direction, British and Afghan troops secure the rest of the district center.  Beyond that, the territory belongs to the Taliban.

A Battlefield Tour of Musa Qala District Center

Note: After further review, I pulled two images that showed overlook of ISAF bases that could pose a security risk. The other concerns were addressed and deemed fit to publish.

DT