Operation Desert Storm: Key Battles and Leadership Insights
From Tanks to Airpower: The First Gulf War’s Combat Operations
Today is January 4th, 2025—thirty-four years ago, U.S. and coalition forces were about to transition from Operation Desert Shield to Desert Storm. Operation Desert Storm was the combat phase of what most now call the First Gulf War, aimed at freeing Kuwait from Iraq's occupation. It kicked off on January 17, 1991, after Saddam Hussein's forces invaded Kuwait in August 1990. Led by the United States, a coalition of 42 countries came together to push back against Iraq’s aggression and liberate Kuwait. The operation started with a massive air campaign, followed by a fast-moving ground attack. For those of us in uniform, it was a moment that showcased the U.S. Military near the peak of its Cold War strength. Kuwait was liberated by February 28, 1991
During this period, the U.S. Mili…
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