Military Mishaps: Lessons from Tragic and Frustrating Deployments

As a seasoned professional in the military, I have witnessed numerous instances where things went drastically wrong. These mishaps can range from small oversights to catastrophic failures, often leading to significant damage and loss. In this article, we will explore some of the most notorious military mistakes, including deployments gone wrong, operations that went awry, and tragic accidents.

Deployments Gone Wrong: The JRTC Incident

During a JRTC deployment, we faced a particularly frustrating situation. Initially, the training mission was to commence on August 15th. However, on August 16th, we were still stranded on Fort Bragg, waiting for our transportation to the actual training grounds at Fort Polk. This delay was a direct result of a major oversight somewhere in the planning process. It took us an entire week to make it to the planned location, leading to significant delays and frustrations.

Field Artillery Mishap: The Day 2 Catastrophe

Another memorable instance occurred during a division-level exercise where Field Artillery units were conducting their exercises. The plan was for the 82nd Airborne Division to jump into the drop zone (DZ) on Day 3. However, due to an unexplained mix-up in communication, the jump occurred on Day 2. Thousands of soldiers were deployed early, leading to chaotic incidents.

Despite the wind conditions being unfavorable for a mid-day jump, the jump was allowed to proceed. The result was that several C-17 transport aircraft carrying personnel landed east of the intended drop zone, causing the pilots to fly back over the same area for a second drop. This resulted in hundreds of troops hitting the ground over a field crowded with vehicles and artillery pieces. The incident led to significant injuries and even death, with some reports suggesting that the division S3 had to write 1000 KIA (Killed in Action) letters to families of those presumed deceased.

Misleading Operational Orders: A Day Early?

Another example is a scenario where the operational order (OPORD) clearly indicated a jump on Day 3, with the FRAGO (Fragmentary Order) confirming it as H36. However, due to a simple arithmetic error, an entire division misunderstood the instructions to be on Day 2. This oversight delayed the mission and frustrated troops waiting for the correct timing.

Operational Mishaps: Beyond Deployment and Airborne Drops

In addition to deployment and airborne mishaps, there are a number of other operational errors that have led to significant consequences. One such instance involves a tragedy that occurred when a soldier was arrested for assault against his stepdaughter. The story began with a stepdaughter telling her mother that she hoped a certain person would die. When the mother asked for details, the stepdaughter revealed the information, leading to a call to the police and an arrest before the individual could board the plane. The rapid discharge of the soldier and the alleged false reporting by the police led to a series of ethically questionable decisions.

Lessons from Military Mishaps

These stories highlight the importance of clear communication and adherence to operational plans. They also serve as a reminder that even the most minutiae can have significant consequences in the military. By learning from these mistakes, we can work towards preventing similar incidents in the future. It is crucial to maintain a high level of vigilance and ensure that all plans are followed diligently.

Conclusion

The military is not immune to accidents and misunderstandings. From deployments to airborne operations, these stories underscore the critical need for effective communication and meticulous planning. By consistently striving for excellence and learning from our mistakes, we can ensure safer and more successful missions.