Firebase Phoenix

Firebase Phoenix is a small American firebase in the Korengal valley in Kunar Province, Afghanistan. The valley is very close to the Pakistani border, north of the Khyber Pass, east of Tora Bora.

"The view from a gun position at Firebase Phoenix overlooking the Korengal valley. Paratroopers from Company B, 2nd Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment (Airborne), 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team, occupy several small firebases along the valley in one of the most hard-fought areas in Afghanistan's Regional Command - East area of responsibility."

U.S. Army Pfc. Mathew Moreno, 2nd Platoon, Battle Company, 2nd Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment (Airborne), looks through a Lightweight Laser designator Rangefinder at Firebase Phoenix in Korengal Valley, Afghanistan, June 10, 2007. U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Brandon Aird

One of the purposes of the Firebase is to guard and help facilitate those rebuilding the Pesh River Road. The American Forces Press Service quoted Sergeant first class Jose Magaña:

“I hope they know by now why they are here. To look out outside the base and see people doing things, selling things, kids going to schools, even girls, that’s why we’re here, so that the Afghan people can do things many take for granted. It’s not easy to bear all the sacrifices these soldiers are making, but their role is historic in granting people the same freedoms we have at home.” “Our job is to secure an area of the Pech River road. The strategic location and purpose of this road make it very valuable. We need to ensure the road’s progress moves forward. This road will improve the lives of the people who live here, enhance the Afghan security forces’ ability to control the area and stimulate economic and social development.”