Africa could become a swamp of terror. (Our story is here.) In that huge continent, US forces—airmen, marines, sailors, and soldiers—are engaged in another type of war against terror. There the troops are mainly support units rather than combat forces. The job is to help plan and build schools, work on roads and fix bridges, and provide medical and dental care, among other basic but essential functions, says Marine Corps Maj. Gen. Timothy Ghormley, commander of Combined Joint Task Force Horn of Africa. The tours vary from six months to a year, and the troops include active and reserves.
We looked back on the past 12 months to find the stories that resonated the most with you, our audience, and these 10 topped the list. Maybe you missed one the first time around, or perhaps you’d like to revisit a favorite.