Civil Affairs in Desert Shield and Desert Storm

This case study traces the numerous contributions of U.S. Civil Affairs assets both in Iraq and Kuwait during combat and post-combat phases. By any standard, CA operations in DESERT SHIELD/STORM were highly effective, aiding displaced citizens, helping rebuild Kuwait, and even saving lives. Perhaps most notable among these Civil Affairs achievements was the contribution of the Kuwait Task Force, which in the pre-war months identified functional experts and planned for post-war liberation by closely coordinating with the Kuwaiti government-in-exile and with U.S. government civilian agencies. In addition to these dramatic successes, this case study also addresses hurdles and roadblocks that limited CA effectiveness.

Eric Ridge