Operation Desert Storm: A Soldier's Story

Between 1990 and 1991, the United States deployed thousands of U.S. soldiers to Iraq during the Gulf War, also known as Operation Desert Storm. One of those soldiers, Kevin Ulibarri, left his home in Belen, New Mexico to join the ranks of the men and women fighting in the Persian Gulf. This is his story.

What led you to join the Army originally?

Graduating, at 17-years-old, in 1986 from a small town school in Belen, New Mexico and not really having anything to do but get into trouble I decided to join the Army National Guard. I figured I could get away from the small town atmosphere and maybe do something with my life other than work at McDonalds, a small car dealership or spend it getting into trouble. Being only 17-years-old at the time, my parents had to sign on my behalf. I left for basic training September 23,1986, on my 18^th birthday.

Where did you serve and in which branch?

I originally went into the New Mexico Army National Guard. Around six months later I went into active duty for the Army where I served with the Big Red One - the 1^st Infantry Division out of Fort Riley, Kansas, 2\16 Infantry.

What was your experience like in Desert Storm?

I don't talk about it much. I am close to my family which made being there hard for me. I couldn't see or talk to my mom, where I used to see her two or three times a week. The things I experienced were a shock. I have never seen so many starving people. There were small kids on the streets begging for food or for money to get food - it was very hurt full. I could only give them what I had. There were days I wouldn't eat so the Iraq kids would have a meal - even if it was a MRE. Being a humble man, I was culture shocked and seeing and doing a lot.

How do you feel about the outcome of Desert Storm?

We are still feeling it now, as far as there are sick veterans from Desert Storm that have problems physical and mentally- as I am myself . I have very mixed emotions about it. I hated it when I was there and looking back now I still hated being there.

The Gulf War received heavy attention from the media and was the first war effort widely televised. How do you feel the firsthand accounts shaped public opinion of U.S. soldiers or the conflict in general?

I felt the Media should not have been in the front lines and that the military told them too much.

What was your own homecoming like? Were you surprised by the civilian reaction to you and other returning soldiers?

I can remember when we waited in country for our civilian flight out. When we finally got on the plane after 2 days of waiting, the flight attendants were so nice and respectful to us. They waited on us hand and foot gave, making sure they gave us whatever we wanted within their abilities.

We landed in New York to switch planes. We got a great welcome when we arrived at the airport. The people waiting inside had a huge banner we all signed - there must have been 5,000 signatures on it. Everyone cheered and clapped when they saw us. Many people thanked us and hugged us. Overall, coming home was a great experience - I love the United States of America.

Do you have any lingering physical effects?

Officially, I do not have any lingering physical effects. However, I still have nightmares and was diagnosed with PTSD. While working my current job, I feel into a deep depression. I also suffer from panic attacks and cannot be around large crowds. Physically, I have internal Gastric problems. I was diagnosed with Epilepsy and suffer with daily pains throughout my body.

I am ok for the most part. There are veterans out there who are worse off than me. While I was turned down for military disabilities, I hope my government will be there for me when I really need them to be. Right now I live day-by-day for God, my wife, my children and my family.

How has your deployment in the Gulf War shaped your life since returning home?

The lessons I learned there shaped my life and transferred on to my kids. Returning home, I reached a good point in my life. I finally met the woman of my dreams - who is now my wife. I have two beautiful children, Kylie who is 15-years-old and Emilio who is 13-years old. Kylie plays basketball for her JV high school team and Emilio is a straight A student who also plays basketball for the 8^th grade middle school team in Belen, New Mexico. Outside of school, he plays YAFL football and club baseball. They are great kids.

Where do you live now and what are you doing?

I live in Los Lunas, New Mexico. I currently work for a government contractor here on Kirtland Air Force Base as an Operations Supervisor for a non-profit organization working with adults with disabilities. I live day by day I try to live life to its fullest.