19 Military Photos From Operation Just Cause

History March 18, 2025

Operation Just Cause, the U.S.Military invasion of Panama in December 1989, was a very quick yet intense conflict that was focused on successfully overthrowing dictator, Manuel Noriega. Over 27,000 American troops that were supported by airstrikes as well as special forces ended up launching a coordinated assault to dismantle Noriega’s regime and also restore democratic governance. This collection of photos provides a visceral glimpse into the high-stakes intensity of the wartime efforts.

1. Operation Just Cause against the (de facto) dictator Manuel Noriega

Three soldiers in camouflage and helmets aim rifles through a window in a defensive stance. One uses binoculars. Equipment is scattered around them. Outdoors, a landscape with open fields is visible in the background. Black and white image.
redditravenroth

These guys are clearly focused in.

2. U.S. soldier in Panama, 1989

redditcallahan44

What a stud.

3. U.S. Airborne drop during Operation Just Cause

Numerous paratroopers and cargo are seen descending from multiple military aircraft in the sky, deploying round parachutes against a clear backdrop. The scene suggests a large-scale airborne operation or exercise.
redditsealius13

Now that’s a stunning shot.

4. U.S. soldiers control a panamanian highway tollbooth.

Soldiers are stationed at a road checkpoint with military vehicles parked nearby. A large sign overhead reads "PARA QUE EL CANAL SEA NUESTRO RESISTE." The setting appears to be tropical, with trees visible in the background.
redditdieselpwer

Looks like another intense day out there.

5. U.S. Soldiers in Panama during Operation Just Cause (1989)

Three soldiers in camouflage uniforms and helmets stand with rifles in front of a military vehicle, conversing with two women. Another soldier sits in the vehicle. A building with a metal gate is in the background.
redditdeleted

There were pauses for making some small talk.

6. ST4 Operation Just Cause, Panama, 1989

A group of soldiers in camouflage uniforms and hats pose in a forested area. They hold rifles and other gear. In front of them is a flag featuring a skull and crossed swords. The background consists of trees and uneven terrain.
reddit305fun2

These guys clearly mean business.

7. Ready to roll in Operation Just Cause (1989)

A man with a mustache and aviator sunglasses wearing a headset is seated in front of control panels and screens. He is looking back at the camera. The control panels include various dials and screens.
redditperfectengineer1989

Nice shades there.

8. U. S. Marines of Company D, 2nd Light Armored Infantry Battalion

A military vehicle with soldiers is parked on a street in front of a partially demolished building. Dust or smoke is in the air, suggesting recent destruction. Nearby structures appear damaged, and debris is scattered around.
reddithestolemybaloons

Talk about an intense approach.

9. Operation Just Cause in 1989 in Panama, US

A tank is parked partially inside a laundromat, breaking through the front of the building. The storefronts show signs for drinks and detergent. The tank is surrounded by debris and sandbags.
redditmactan400/

That tank clearly just ripped right through the wall.

10. U.S. paratroopers in Panama during Operation Just Cause

Three soldiers in camouflage and helmets take tactical positions behind a low wall. One is crouching, another kneeling with a weapon, and the third walking carefully. Sunlight and shadows are visible on the concrete ground.
redditjimmyjimgohome

The action shots really take these wartime photos to a different level.

11. Two soldiers of the 7th Infantry Division take a break while on patrol during Operation Just Cause

Two soldiers in camouflage uniforms and face paint under a tree. One stands holding a rifle, while the other lies on the ground holding binoculars. They appear to be in a training or field exercise setting.
redditsgthardtimes

The stache really ties the whole fit together.

12. U.S. Army soldier in Panama City, Panama, during Operation Just Cause

A person in military camouflage applies green face paint, using a side mirror of a vehicle for guidance. They wear a camouflage uniform and appear focused on preparing their appearance.
redditvanish7848

Getting ready to go.

13. U.S. Army Soldiers patrolling the streets of Panama during Operation Just Cause

A soldier in a helmet is stationed on top of an armored vehicle, equipped with a mounted gun. The vehicle is inscribed with "Merry Christmas!" and "Feliz Navidad!" Tall buildings and the ocean are in the background under a clear blue sky.
redditlastwarfare453

They’ve got their ride outfitted.

14. 75th Ranger Regiment in Panama during Operation Just Cause

Seven soldiers in camouflage uniforms and helmets hold rifles, posing for a group photo. Behind them is a wall with partially visible text. The setting appears to be outdoors with grass underfoot.
redditbrironborn

These guys weren’t messing around.

15. Operation Just Cause ’89

Two soldiers in camouflage uniforms and helmets crouch in tall grass. The front soldier holds a firearm and looks to the left, while the second soldier appears behind him. Distant buildings and a helicopter are visible in the background.
redditjimmyjimgohoome

Looking good, fellas.

16. Operation Just Cause, 1989

Two soldiers in camouflage gear patrol a city street, each holding a rifle. One soldier gestures while the other looks ahead. Cars are parked along the road surrounded by tall buildings and a cloudy sky.
redditjimmyjimgohome

One of those angles that really makes you feel like you’re almost there.

17. Members of SEAL Team 4 pose for a group photo before Operation Just Cause in Panama 1989

A group of sixteen men in casual and military-style clothing pose for a photo on a ship's deck. The sea is visible in the background. Some men are standing, while others are crouching or sitting. The mood appears relaxed and informal.
redditknotsfodays

The lads look ready to roll.

18. The crew of a Marine LAV25 light armored vehicle (LAV) takes a break as the vehicle commander checks a map.

Three soldiers in a military tank: two are in the turret with a map, and one is in front of the open hatch. They're on a paved road with trees, a white building, and a hill in the background.
redditdeleted

Those maps were indispensable.

19. U.S. soldiers surrounding the Vatican embassy in Panama during Operation Just Cause, 1989

Soldiers in military gear sit in and on a Humvee in an urban area. "Merry Christmas!" is written on the vehicle's side. One soldier mans a mounted gun, while buildings and palm trees are visible in the background.
redditmrpre180

A tough time to keep the holiday spirits going.

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