THE TENSION: Combat Camera: Operation Skagway in Central Iraq

A U.S. Army soldier makes a radio check prior to commencing a night mission in the central region of Iraq, Oct. 3. The soldiers are attached to 1st Platoon, Baker Company, 3rd Battalion, 509th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division. Photographer: Petty Officer 2nd Class Justin Thomas, Joint Combat Camera Center.

U.S. Army soldiers prepare their armored vehicle prior to commencing a mission in central Iraq, Oct. 3. The soldiers are attached to 1st Platoon, Baker Company, 3rd Battalion, 509th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division. Photographer: Petty Officer 2nd Class Justin Thomas, Joint Combat Camera Center.

A U.S. Army soldier works on some of his gear prior to commencing a night mission in the central region of Iraq, Oct. 3. The soldier is attached to 1st Platoon, Baker Company, 3rd Battalion, 509th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division. Photographer: Petty Officer 2nd Class Justin Thomas, Joint Combat Camera Center.

A U.S. Army gunner scans the area for enemy targets during a night mission. The soldier is attached to 1st Platoon, Baker Company, 3rd Battalion, 509th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division. Photographer: Petty Officer 2nd Class Justin Thomas, Joint Combat Camera Center.