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AN~CDOTE FRO~ T}{E SECO~D ODSTACL~ ~~EACP.

  The command group Alpha convoy moved at a slow rate through the
central portion of Burqan Oil Field.  It was late at ni9ht.   Vi~ion
was obscured as a result of the soot and smoke from the blown
oilwell heads.  As our vehicle continued to lead the convoy, a small
light was spotted to the east.  Momentarily after the siahtina, a
human whistle sounded.  The convoy halted as several Iraqi soldiers
approached waiving white flags.  Security waje quickly set out along
the flanks whil~ in excess of two hundred surrendering Iraqi      -
soldiers were formed into a group.  One of the soldiers initiali'~
sighted kept waiving his hand.  Xe was a captain and spoke english
well.  Relief land cooperation best described their reaction to bein~
captured by Marines.  Further explanation from the Iraqi captain
revealed that his group represented remnants of numerous units and
that they were previously captured that afternoon and told to head
south.  Of course1 by that time they were hung~ry, thirst'~, and
nervous about further engagements.  Colonel Admire directed ?iRS's
and water to be passed out to each ~PW, medical care to be a*iv~r to
the injured, and documentation compl~ted.  It was obvious that we
could not transport this group of EPW's due to the size and lack ot
vehicles.  The look on the face of each Iraqi soldier that coul~
comprehend being left behind, was one of utter disappo~ntment.

Submitted by Capt ~. C. Burge, HQ 3dMAR ~egt S-2

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