New York Fundraiser 2024 - Objective Gecko

Join us at One World Trade Observatory as we commemorate Objective Gecko, the first special-ops mission in Afghanistan, with keynote speaker Ambassador Dell L. Dailey.

Date

July 15, 2024

Category

Community

We are excited to return to One World Trade Observatory for this year's New York fundraiser. We will look back at how the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (SOAR) helped launch the Global War on Terror, Twenty-three (23) years ago this October.

Keynote Speaker: Ambassador Dell L. Dailey

Ambassador Dell L. Dailey

Ambassador Dell L. Dailey is one of Army Aviation's greatest leaders, having served his country 42 years with great distinction as a Cadet, Infantryman, Combat Commander, Master Army Aviator, Ranger, Special Operator, General Officer and Statesman.

A 1971 West Point 2LT of Infantry, Airborne-Ranger, he commanded two companies in Infantry and five Aviation units. Special Operations Forces assignments include the 75th Rangers and the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne) where he commanded two companies, two battalions and the Regiment.

As the Commander of Joint Special Operations Command, he masterminded and executed key elements in the first Afghanistan campaign plan after 9/11. In close succession his command led forces into Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom.

The First Special-Ops Mission in Afghanistan - Objective Gecko

On October 19, 2001, just weeks after the devastating terrorist attacks on September 11, the United States initiated a critical counter offensive against the Taliban in Afghanistan.

This mission marked the beginning of Operation Enduring Freedom, aimed at dismantling Al Qaeda and overthrowing the Taliban regime that provided sanctuary to the terrorist group.

Objective Gecko planned to raid the compound residence of Mullah Omar, the leader of the Taliban. Night Stalkers, renowned for their expertise in flying under hazardous conditions, transported Delta Force operators via MH-47 Chinook helicopters and MH-60 Direct Action Penetrators (DAP), successfully executing the longest air assault raid in U.S. Military history.

Night Stalkers Don't Quit.

Brian Supko
Executive Director

Author
Brian Supko

LTC (Ret.) Brian Supko served in the 160th SOAR from 2004 to 2020 and commanded the Special Operations Aviation Training Battalion. He is a Distinguished Flying Cross recipient.

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