6th Motor Transport Battalion to Mark 10-Year Anniversary of Iraq Conflict in Las Vegas

Feb. 25, 2013 - PRLog -- Ten years ago this March, the men and women of the 6th Motor Transport Battalion, based at Nellis AFB, began their first tour in Iraq.  Next month, on March 16, the unit will gather here in Las Vegas to remember an experience that forever changed their lives.  The unit is planning a dinner at the Las Vegas National Golf Club and a weekend that includes family activities, horseback riding and golf.

The weekend is being organized by Daniel Thomas, Sgt. USMC retired and others in the unit.  Horses4Heroes, a Las Vegas-based non-profit, is hosting a family day and helping coordinate the weekend's activities.

According to Sgt. Thomas, "Our accomplishments and our ability to endure the hardships of combat were possible due to the family and community support offered to us as 'Vegas Marines.'  Las Vegas has become a special place for all of us and it is fitting that Las Vegas is where we will gather to mark our 10-year anniversary."

In January 2003 approximately 60 Reserve Marines from 6th Motor Transport Battalion were deployed to the Middle East in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. On March 19, this Unit was among the first U.S. Service Members to enter Iraq.  

According to Sgt. Thomas:  "We spent the next several months enduring the hardships of combat. The Unit was split up during this time. While many had a crucial job of protecting and maintaining the supply lines, others were attached to another critical unit. These Marines secured, rebuilt, and protected bridges for the advancing U.S. forces. Our unit held itself well above reproach and maintained the highest traditions of the U.S. Marine Corps.  For this we received several prestigious individual and unit awards, including the Presidential Unit Citation. "

Horses4Heroes is requesting local businesses and individuals to join them in supporting and recognizing this unit and thanking them for their service to community and country. For information on how to support the 6th Motor Transport Battalion's 10th Anniversary Weekend, please call 702.645.8446.

About Horses4Heroes

Horses4Heroes is one of the most successful equestrian support groups for veterans and military families.  Since 2006, Horses4Heroes has introduced more than 5,000 servicemen and women to horses and horseback riding, simply because of their sacrifice and service to our country.  Las Vegas-based Horses4Heroes is a non-profit organization that serves all active duty military personnel, veterans, First Responders and their families.  The organization's growing national network of more than 200 equestrian facilities in 44 states plus Canada provide affordable (sometimes free) recreational, instructional and health & wellness programs for all ages, all riding levels and all disciplines.   These programs emphasize fun and safe activities with horses, mounted and un-mounted for all ages. Participants learn valuable leadership and teamwork skills, make new friends, and develop a lifelong love of horses.