Battle for Fallujah

Just as it was critical in open desert operations during the initial stages of Operation Iraqi Freedom, cannon artillery has played a key role in the ongoing fight against insurgent and terrorist strongholds in the streets of Iraq's major urban areas.

The most notable of these operations was the November-2004 Battle for Fallujah, which was considered the most intense urban battle since Hue City in Vietnam in 1968. During the battle, cannons proved invaluable to soldiers and Marines going from house to house to rid the city of insurgents. The Washington Post reported that soldiers sweeping through Fallujah credited "Powerful artillery pieces such as the Paladin for the ease and speed with which the U.S. military has been able to take control of most of Fallujah (Washington Post, "Artillerymen Clear Path for the Infantry," Nov. 11, 2004)."

The Battle for Fallujah was a clear demonstration of how cannon artillery, with the ability to provide danger-close fire support to maneuver units in a moment's notice, is a decisive factor in urban combat.

Below are links to some stats and quotes excerpted from various news sources that highlight cannon artillery's critical role during this pivotal battle.

Battle for Fallujah After Action Report Excerpts

General Media Quotes