Abstract
Captain Jean Boy deployed to Afghanistan in 2006 where his team transitioned from French Panhard VBLs to the AM General HUMVEE while working alongside U.S. forces. The switch to the larger, more powerful HUMVEE not only enhanced their operational effectiveness but also facilitated seamless integration with American units during crucial missions in the fight against terrorism.
My HUMVEE Story | by Captain Jean Boy
As a French SOF Lieutenant, I was deployed with my Direct Action (DA) team to the Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force – Afghanistan (CJSOTF-A) during Operation Enduring Freedom in 2006.
To integrate my DA team into a U.S. Task Group, we transitioned from our small, compact French armored vehicles, the Panhard VBL, to the AM General HUMVEE. This change allowed us to adapt to “the American way of life,” characterized by the HUMVEE’s impressive size, superior protection, and formidable power. The switch also enabled us to operate effectively alongside our American brothers-in-arms, conducting extended armored raids and contributing to the fight against terrorism.”
Jean serves the French Ministry of Defense by working in the Defense Industry to provide valuable solutions for the Warfighter’s mission.
CAPT (Ret.) Jean Boy, served on active duty for the French Army for 15 years.
Media Contact: Deborah Reyes, Executive Director, Global Marketing and Strategic Communications
E-mail: deborah.reyes@amgeneral.com