Historic Oregon Guard 2-162nd Infantry Regiment in Iraq

Alpha Co. is prepared to stay in Scania for the duration of their deployment.

Soldiers from 2-162 on a previous deployment to Iraq. Photo: State of Oregon

(SCANIA, Iraq) - Alpha Company 2-162nd Infantry Regiment, Oregon National Guard, set out on their first, and last, convoy mission to Scania July 31st.

The company, driving 29 vehicles, brought personnel and their gear to Scania, a small base known as a truck stop, along Route Tampa. Alpha Co.'s mission was changed from convoy security to base security for Scania.

"We will operate the Base Defense Operations Center and Tactical Operations Center, provide base defense, the quick recovery force and the immediate reactionary force for Scania," said 1st Sgt. Geoffrey A. Miotke, Alpha Company, 2-162 Infantry.

The company's QRF will supply wreckers if military and military-related vehicles associated with the convoys breakdown on the route. The base can see up to 24 convoys daily with as many as 30 rigs in each convoy.

Route Tampa is a major north/south road from Kuwait to Mosul. The IRF is prepared to deal with base security issues in the case of indirect fire.

The change made a positive difference for Soldiers stationed there.

"There is more variety and we are better trained for that than sitting in vehicles all day," said Sgt. Jason Schimoniz, a truck commander for Alpha Co. "I'm okay without having to do convoy security."

Previously, units have passed through Scania staying only 90 days then moving on. Only the departing unit has stayed longer. Alpha Co. is prepared to stay in Scania for the duration of their deployment.

"We are ready to start our duty," said Sgt. Moises Becerra, a team leader for Alpha Co. "We are no longer waiting for training or transportation. We are here on the ground ready to do our job. We can accomplish something."