in january 2002, the 4 og arrived in kuwait in support of operations southern watch and enduring freedom, flying missions over iraq and afghanistan. on 1 march 2002, operation anaconda was launched, and the group's mission was to provide close air support into afghanistan. operation anaconda ended 21 march 2002 with the 4 og's greatest highlight being their performance at roberts ridge. members of the 335th fighter squadron successfully suppressed enemy fire from al-qaida troops, as army and air force personnel retrieved stranded and fallen comrades.