“Don’t Think You’ll Ever Be Over It”: Reflections On The Battle Of Wanat

LTC Matthew R. Myer, USMA 2001, received the 2018 Nininger Award for heroic action in the 2008 Battle of Wanat, Afghanistan. The award is named for Alexander R. Nininger, USMA 1941, who received the Medal of Honor for conspicuous gallantry near Abucay, Bataan, Philippines. On July 13, 2008, several hundred Taliban insurgents attacked the 2nd Platoon of his C Company, 2/503rd Infantry, 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team. The 2nd Platoon fought tenaciously, and was eventually reinforced by the Quick Reaction Force (QRF) Platoon, turning the tide in the battle. In this interview, LTC Matt Myer and CSM Scott Beeson, his former First Sergeant, discuss the Battle of Wanat, including training in Italy for the deployment, preparing to establish COP Kahler, and fighting the battle. They also describe how that battle ten years ago continues to shape their lives.