Augusta's 319th takes big step into Iraq

CAMP VIPER, Iraq - Augusta's 319th Transportation Company crossed the Iraqi border in darkness early today, arriving at a new camp on a cold morning in an area that apparently has seen little combat.

The unit left Camp Coyote in Kuwait as part of a massive convoy that stretched three miles and included both the 319th's entire fleet of tanker trucks and parts of the U.S. Marine Corps' 6th Motors Transport Battalion.

The convoy - which crossed into Iraq at about 3 a.m - carried fuel, food, water and ammunition.

The command Humvee crossed the border on a dirt road, passing by a demolished bunker, an overturned burned-out vehicle and a destroyed transport.

The 319th's 1st. Lt. Daniel Perugini, 30, of Augusta, said it was more likely garbage than carnage.

"It's probably from last time," he said, referring to the 1991 Persian Gulf War.

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He said there was little resistance when U.S. troops moved through this area in the past few days.

The Humvee made constant stops along the dirt road leading to Camp Viper, helping Marine trucks, which had mechanical problems and flat tires.

Lt. Perugini said it was to be expected in a convoy of this size.

The 319th's commander, Capt. Mohandas Martin, said crossing into Iraq is a significant step for the unit.

"It shows that we are a vital part of this campaign," he said. "We're contributing to the freedom of a country that's been suppressed by a dictator."

--From the Sunday, March 23, 2003 printed edition of the Augusta Chronicle