Battle of Mogadishu: Black Hawk Down

Battle of Mogadishu: Black Hawk Down

The Battle of Mogadishu (or the Day of the Rangers’), also known as the Black Hawk Down Incident, was part of Operation Gothic Serpent. On 3–4 October 1993, in Mogadishu, Somalia, the United States—supported by United Nations Operation Somalia referred to as UNOSOM II— fought against Somali National Alliance or SNA fighters and other insurgents in south Mogadishu. No battle since the Vietnam War had resulted in so many U.S. casualties, including 18 dead American soldiers and 73 wounded. The bodies of fallen US troops were dragged through the streets by enraged Somalis, an act that was broadcast on American television to public outcry. Learn how events over the preceding several years and actions by the United Nations led up to this terrible battle. What lessons can be learned and applied to the present day?

Connect with history by getting hands-on with iconic firearms, including the M16A2, the AK-47, and Beretta M9.