Remember Lance CPL Edwards’ sacrifice as we stand here near the Operation Enduring Freedom Tennis Courts Stone. This stone serves as a poignant reminder of Operation Enduring Freedom. It also honors those who served.
Operation Enduring Freedom was the official U.S. government name. It applied to the initial stage of the War in Afghanistan from 2001 to 2014. It also included the larger Global War on Terrorism. President George W. Bush announced airstrikes against Al-Qaeda and the Taliban had begun in Afghanistan on October 7, 2001. This was a response to the September 11 attacks.
Beyond Afghanistan, Operation Enduring Freedom included counterterrorism. These operations occurred in countries like the Philippines and Trans Sahara. After thirteen years, President Barack Obama declared the end of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. That happened on December 28, 2014. Subsequent U.S. military actions in Afghanistan occurred under Operation Freedom’s Sentinel.
Operation Enduring Freedom had several subordinate operations. These operations targeted Al-Qaeda and Taliban remnants. They occurred in the Philippines, Trans Sahara, and possibly Georgia’s Pankisi Gorge. The term “OEF” usually refers to the Afghanistan War phase from 2001 to 2014. Other operations had loose connections. All operations focused on counterterrorism.
Initially, it was called Operation Infinite Justice. This name changed to avoid offending Muslims. Islam is the majority religion in Afghanistan. President Bush’s remark about a “crusade” against terrorism also contributed to the renaming.
Early combat involved strikes from B-1, B-2, and B-52 bombers. F-14 and F/A-18 fighters also participated. Tomahawk cruise missiles launched from U.S. and British ships.
President Bush outlined initial military objectives. They included destroying terrorist camps in Afghanistan. Capturing al-Qaeda leaders was another goal. The U.S. also wanted to stop terrorist activities in Afghanistan.
Over 1,200 soldiers from U.S. Special Operations Command Pacific deployed to the Philippines. Their mission was to support the Armed Forces of the Philippines. They aimed to uproot terrorist forces on Basilan. Groups included Abu Sayyaf, al-Qaeda, and Jemaah Islamiyah. The operation involved training the AFP and providing humanitarian aid.
In October 2002, Combined Task Force 150 and U.S. Special Forces established themselves in Djibouti. The operation’s goals were to provide humanitarian aid. They also patrolled the Horn of Africa. This reduced the abilities of terrorist organizations. Humanitarian aid prevented militant groups from gaining support.
Coalition forces searched ships entering the region for illegal cargo. They also trained and equipped armed forces in the region. Humanitarian efforts included building schools and water wells.
Since 2001, the U.S. government spent over $150 billion on Operation Enduring Freedom. Remember the sacrifices made during Operation Enduring Freedom. Honor the memory of Lance CPL Edwards and all who served. Let this stone remind us of their courage and dedication.