The complex nature of the environment in Iraq in 2006–07 as part of 'the Surge' resulted in a wide range of security, stability and counter-insurgency operations conducted under difficult conditions. Soldiers patrolled extensively by day and night as a part of framework operations, set ambushes ('counter improvised explosive device patrols' in the politically correct terminology of the time) to retain freedom of action astride the approaches to Tallil and coalition lines of communication northwards to Baghdad, and sought to disrupt the indirect fire threat to the Coalition FOB. Direct fire contacts with insurgents took place during both tours in 2006–07 and ranged from fleeting engagements to the series of contacts involving OBG(W) 2 elements over 48 hours on 23 and 24 April 2006. Soldiers also experienced enemy indirect fire and improvised explosive devices. Both tours saw personnel wounded in action but fortunately neither battle group suffered any killed in action. The 5 RAR Battle Group regularly provided support to strike operations undertaken by United States Special Forces, including a mission late 2007 that resulted in the detention of a Corps-level high-value target. In July 2007 the 5 RAR battle group also seized two bridges in An Nasiriyah as part of a challenging passage of lines operation with the British Army's Kings Royal Hussars Battle Group. During both tours members of 5 RAR trained and mentored the Iraqi Army and Police, as well as undertaking construction and reconstruction work to shape the operating environment. Lieutenant Colonel Jake Ellwood was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for his command and leadership in action as the commanding officer of OBG(W) 3.