Iraq invaded Kuwait on August 2, 1990. By August 7, the United States had deployed troops and equipment to bases in the Middle East while simultaneously organizing a coalition of nations in opposition to the Iraqi invasion. United Nations Security Council Resolution 678, approved on November 29, 1990, demanded that Iraq withdraw from Kuwait and authorized the U. S.-led coalition to launch an offensive if Iraq did not comply by January 15, 1991. When Iraq refused to leave Kuwait, the coalition attacked on January 17. By February 27, Iraqi forces were driven from Kuwait and a cease-fire was declared on February 28, 1991. The military operation, dubbed "Operation Desert Storm," was successful and one of the shortest in which the United States has participated.

During Operation Desert Storm, more than 1,000 West Virginia men and women from Army Reserve and West Virginia National Guard units were deployed, including reserve units from Elkins, Bluefield, Kingwood, Morgantown, and Charleston. In addition, members of the West Virginia Army National Guard's 1st Battalion, 201st Field Artillery (Fairmont), and elements of the West Virginia Air National Guard's (Charleston) and 167th Tactical Airlift Groups (Martinsburg) were sent to the Middle East.