FORWARD OPERATING BASE FENTY, Afghanistan (Jan. 6, 2013) - The 2nd Squadron, 17th Cavalry Regiment, has a long and proud history that spans nearly a century. Its long history includes campaigns in World War II, Vietnam and Iraq. The Soldiers of 2-17 CAV are currently on their next rendezvous with destiny at Forward Operating Base Fenty, Afghanistan.
Task Force Saber provides air support for Nuristan, Nangrahar, Kunar and Laghman provinces. Covering this area brings close air support, reconnaissance and target acquisition capabilities to the units operating in those provinces
"We added Kapisa Province to support 4th Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, Task Force Long Knife," said Lt. Col. Michael Harvey, commander, 2-17 CAV. "We have a wide variety of units and organizations that we service, including our brothers and sisters in 1st Brigade, 101st Airborne Division, and 201st Corps, Afghan National Army."
For helicopters to cover such a large area, proper maintenance is essential. The Soldiers of TF Saber keep the OH-58D Kiowa Warrior, AH-64D Apache, UH-60 Black Hawk, and CH-47 Chinook helicopters flying every day.
"Our Soldiers show how easily they adapt," said Command Sgt. Maj. Stuart C. O'Black. "They are doing twice the aircraft maintenance of some of their comrades. They are keeping a lot of aircraft up and running 24 hours per day."
Ongoing operations can put a lot of wear and tear on Soldiers. Units fostering tight relationships among its members fare better under stress.
Bringing everyone together into the task force configuration was difficult, said O'Black. We offer the cavalry brotherhood to bring everyone together.
At the end of the day, ensuring that the Soldiers on the ground and all the Soldiers of Task Force Saber make it home is the highest priority.
"We came in as a family," said Harvey. "I want to leave as a family.
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