Stephen Phillips

Operation Earnest Will is the precursor to all our modern conflict. The U.S. Navy’s presence led to a stalemated conclusion of the Tanker War, and thus the Iran-Iraq War. Iraqi did not achieve its aims, invaded Kuwait, leading to Desert Shield, Storm, and all other operations through Operation Iraqi Freedom. Add to this, increased presence of Americans on the Saudi peninsula was a factor in forming Al Qaeda, which attacked our nation on 9/11, resulting in the Global War on Terrorism.

To learn more about Operation Earnest Will, the last time we fought Iran in the Persian Gulf, read “A Poisoned Chalice: The U.S. Navy in the Persian Gulf, 1987-1988.” Published by Potomac Books, order directly with code 6AS26 for 40% off.

On May 17, 1987, an Iraqi Air Force jet, in a case of misidentification, attacked USS Stark with two Exocet missiles. My research revealed that the aircraft was not an F-1 Mirage, but a Falcon 50. Decades later, historical understanding can change.

To learn more about Operation Earnest Will, the last time we fought Iran in the Persian Gulf, and the precursor to our nation’s war in the region thereafter, read “A Poisoned Chalice: The U.S. Navy in the Persian Gulf, 1987-1988.” Published by Potomac Books, order directly with code 6AS26 for 40% off.