War On Terror News

War In Iraq News Daily - November 30, 2008

Bosnians Mark End of Mission

Sunday, 30 November 2008

The Army Achievement Medal was presented to each Bosnia-Herzegovina Soldier for services rendered from Aug. 27 to December 2008. The forces from Bosnia-Herzegovina were honored by their Coalition partners for their service in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. The historic event marked the end of a commitment that started in June 2005. Photo by Multi-National Division - Baghdad.

BAGHDAD — In a ceremony at Hope Chapel on Victory Base Complex Nov. 29, a Contingent of military forces from Bosnia-Herzegovina was honored by their Coalition partners for their service in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. The historic event marked the end of a commitment that started in June 2005.

“This is a historic day for the nation of Iraq and for the nation of Bosnia-Herzegovina,” said Maj. Gen. Michael Ferriter, deputy commanding general for operations, Multi-National Corp – Iraq, who was speaking on behalf of Lt. Gen. Lloyd Austin, commanding general of MNC-I. “It is also a bittersweet day since we must farewell a long time partner of the Coalition, but in doing so recognize that their departure represents a great success that has been achieved here in Iraq. Success that could not be achieved without their support.”

While the Bosnian-Herzegovina troop numbers were less than 150 Soldiers, the commitment was seemingly larger considering the conflicts within their own country.

“Bosnia-Herzegovina has recently come out of a tragic conflict,” said Brig. Gen. Stamenko Novakovic, commander of the 6th Infantry Brigade Bosnia-Herzegovina Armed Forces. “The country is not fully recovered … but we understand the situation in Iraq, and the suffering of the Iraqi people. We found strength to contribute to Operation Iraqi Freedom.

“We hope the Soldiers from Bosnia-Herzegovina met their tasks with success and fulfilled your and our expectations and justified invested efforts. To the brotherly people of Iraq we wish that just like in our country that you can overcome every trouble and advance peace and prosperity,” he said.

Making up the Bosnia-Herzegovina contingent were two forces – armed forces security and the explosive ordnance disposal units. The explosive ordinance units provided support to Multi-National Force – West and Multi-National Division – Center. Meanwhile, the infantry element of the Bosnian-Herzegovina forces provided support on Victory Base Complex for Multi-National Division – Bagdad.

Addressing the Bosnian-Herzegovina Soldiers, Maj. Gen. Khudaier Abass of the Iraqi Army, Multi-National Force – Iraq CJ5 Coalition, pointed out that while he spoke English he didn’t want anything lost to translation. “I will speak in Arabic this time as I want to mean every single word that I’m going to say. In English, I can’t express it in the way I want to feel it from my heart toward our friends, our brothers from Bosnia.”

And while his words had to be translated twice, through English and then Bosnian, his heartfelt thanks from the nation of Iraq seemed clear.

“On behalf of the Iraqi Army and all Iraqi people I give thanks and admiration. Bosnia has been through similar circumstances as Iraq is going through now,” Abass said. “Bosnia today provides support and help to our country. We will never forget this help the Iraqi people, the next generation—for what the Bosnian Armed Forces did for Iraq. Iraq is moving forward in the democratic process, development and reconstruction. All of this is due to the help of the Bosnian friendly forces.

Abass paused for a moment, and then provided an invitation of the Soldiers in the room to one day come back to Iraq—as a guest.

“God willing, we will meet in the near future in Iraq, and at that time, you and your family will be our guest,” he said. “I wish Bosnia and its’ people prosperity and progress and may God help the Coalition forces and their families.”

(By Maj. Craig Heathscott, Multi-National Force – Iraq)

Sunni, Shia, Christians Work Together to Equip Iraqi Security Forces

BAGHDAD — Senior Iraqi and Coalition leaders marked the transfer of the 3,000th armored Humvee to the Government of Iraq Nov. 22, through a program employing 522 Iraqis from different ethnic and religious backgrounds including Sunni, Shi’a and Christian.  This milestone transfer is part of a program to produce mission-ready armored Humvees for issue to the Iraqi military and Police forces and to provide on-the-job training to Iraqi mechanics.

 

Coalition Releases 17,500 Detainees in 2008

BAGHDAD — Coalition forces, in coordination with the Government of Iraq, have released more than 17,500 internees back into their communities this year, dropping the total population in the theater internment facilities to about 15,800. It has been determined that these individuals no longer pose a threat to the Iraqi citizens, Iraqi Security Forces or the GoI.  The improved security in Iraq coupled with the educational and vocational programs available to the detainees inside the theater internment facilities, have allowed for record releases during 2008.

 

Basra Airport Demonstrates Self-Sufficiency during Hajj

BASRA — Basra International Airport’s (BIA) management proved they can function independently from Coalition support as phase one of the Hajj comes to an end. BIA officials reported that more than 4,700 pilgrims left the international portal to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, for this year’s Islamic celebration, an increase of more than 1,000 from last year.

 

Saturday, 29 November 2008	Influential Sons of Iraq leader returns to Baqubah
Saturday, 29 November 2008	Two suspected AQI members detained in Diyala

 

Cornucopia

 

Saturday, 29 November 2008	MND-B Soldiers locate munitions in Baghdad
Saturday, 29 November 2008	Sunni, Shi’a, Christians work together to equip Iraqi Security Forces
Saturday, 29 November 2008	Soldiers seize cash, detain 6 in Rusafa (Baghdad)

 

Lasting Pride

 

Saturday, 29 November 2008	BIA demonstrates self-sufficiency during Hajj
Saturday, 29 November 2008	Influential Sons of Iraq leader returns to Baqubah

 

Sergeant Major

 

Saturday, 29 November 2008	MND-B Soldiers detain 8 suspected criminals throughout Baghdad
Saturday, 29 November 2008	ISF captures 2 terrorists, 1 JAM-SG during separate operations in northern Iraq
Saturday, 29 November 2008	Coalition forces released more than 17,500 detainees this year

 

Ancient Arch

 

Saturday, 29 November 2008	MND–B Soldiers detain wanted SG criminal, NPs find a cache (Baghdad)
Saturday, 29 November 2008	Coalition forces continue to target Katai’b Hezbollah (Baghdad)

 

Brigadier General Blanchette answers your questions

Now this could prove to be real interesting!  How often do you get a chance to submit a question or two to a Brigadier General over in Afghanistan?  Here's your chance!  Read below to find out how you would go about doing so.   MsMarti

Ask ISAF: Brigadier General Blanchette answers your questions

KABUL, Afghanistan — On Monday we launched a new initiative to allow those of you base here in Afghanistan and those abroad to ask questions of an ISAF General.

This week, Brigadier General Richard Blanchette, the ISAF spokesperson, has answered questions from KUNA of Pakistan and The Globe and Mail of Canada.

This episode features questions about ISAF tactics to avoid civilian casualties, ISAF efforts to defeat the insurgency and ISAF’s role in counter narcotics.

A video of the interview is available for download in broadcast quality from the link below.

We look forward to receiving your questions for next week’s ‘Ask ISAF’, the subject of which will be announced next Monday.

Contact Information ISAF Public Affairs Office
Tel: +93 (0)79 51 1155 - Mobile: 0093 (0) 799 55 8291

[email protected] - www.nato.int/isaf/

War In Afghanistan Daily News - November 30, 2008

News From NATO

Afghanistan, ISAF maintain pressure on insurgents

KANDAHAR PROVINCE, Afghanistan — Soldiers from the Afghan National Security Forces join their international partners in an assembly area in Zharey district during Operation Janupi Tapu 2. (ISAF photo)

KABUL, Afghanistan — ISAF soldiers from the 3rd Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment Battle Group, have completed Operation Janubi Tapu 2 in Zharey district, Kandahar.

The three-day operation, which took place Nov. 25-28, also included Afghan National Security Forces, U.S. mentor teams and British Royal Marine Commandos.

“The purpose of the operation was to disrupt insurgents in central Zharey district in order to substantially reduce their ability to plan, coordinate, stage and conduct offensive operations in and around Kandahar city,” said Lieutenant Colonel Roger Barrett, commanding officer of the 3rd Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment Battle Group.

KANDAHAR PROVINCE, Afghanistan — ISAF soldiers from the 3rd Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment Battle Group, advance upon their objective in the Zharey district during Operation Janubi Tapu 2. (ISAF photo)

As the battle group pushed into Zharey, a traditional insurgent safe haven, they overwhelmed the insurgents’ capability to react, proving ANSF and ISAF have the ability to conduct operations at a time and location of their choosing.

Operation Janubi Tapu 2 targeted command and control nodes, seized compounds of interest and disrupted insurgent safe havens. Several weapons caches, IEDs and IED-making equipment were found and destroyed during the operation.

“The success of this operation means that the insurgents will remain off balance and will be less capable of terrorizing the citizens of Kandahar province,” said Brigadier General Denis Thompson, commander of Task Force Kandahar. “This will allow the government of Afghanistan and international partners to forge ahead with the crucial development work that will have a lasting impact on the people.”

Insurgent losses were significant during this operation and included 27 detainees taken by ANSF and ISAF forces.

“We will continue to aggressively operate during the winter months,” Lieutenant Colonel Barrett said. “The insurgents will have nowhere to rest, nowhere to hide and nowhere to reconstitute.”

The operation began days after the Afghan National Army and ISAF units completed three deliberate operations in Kandahar’s districts of Zharey, Panjwayi and Maywand. Operation Mutafiq Tander 6, Operation Janubi Tapu 1, and Operation Joosh Karay were synchronized to degrade the insurgents’ capabilities and leave them few options for escape.

NATO Secretary General sees progress with border security

NORTH-EASTERN AFGHANISTAN — NATO Secretary General Jaap de Hoop Scheffer discusses coordination of joint Afghan and Pakistan operations with a member of Pakistan’s Frontier Corps at the Khyber Border Coordination Center in north-eastern Afghanistan. (ISAF Photo)

KABUL, Afghanistan — NATO Secretary General Jaap de Hoop Scheffer visited several locations across north-eastern Afghanistan Nov. 27 to discuss border operations, be briefed by key leaders and meet with soldiers.

PRT lights bazaar with solar power

KABUL, Afghanistan — ISAF’s Zabul Provincial Reconstruction Team recently finished the installation of 90 solar-powered lights in communities across Zabul province.

The light installation is part of a project to use alternative energy whilst also providing a much needed service to the people of Zabul.

The citizens of Shajoy city originally identified the lighting problem. They wanted lights to illuminate their bazaar, which is the largest in the province, so it can stay open safely after sunset. The lighting would also allow the Afghan National Security Forces to safely conduct security patrols in the area.

Two Tornado aircraft arrive at Mazar-E Sharif air base

MAZAR-E SHARIF, Afghanistan — A Tornado taxis after landing at the airfield here. This aircraft is one of two sent by Italy to help provide addition reconnaissance assets to ISAF forces in Afghanistan. (ISAF photo)

KABUL, Afghanistan — Two Tornado fighter reconnaissance aircraft from the 6th Wing, Ghedi, Italy, recently arrived at Mazar-e Sharif Airfield, in Balkh province.

CPO Brian Cissell, USN, BSM, Iraq, Louisville, KY

 

Brian Cissell

The Story:

Heroes do more than just destroy their enemies: They also build up their friends. During an eight-month deployment in Iraq, Chief Cissell oversaw $30 million worth of reconstruction efforts in southwest Baghdad. When his team of 20 people arrived in an area known as the “Triangle of Death,” they faced neighborhoods without utilities, schools without supplies, and hospitals that were inoperable. As the team began to build up the infrastructure, insurgents attempted to thwart the reconstruction efforts. On two occasions they succeeded by destroying a council building and a police station. Cissell had the buildings rebuilt; a signal that reconstruction efforts could be slowed but not defeated. Cissell’s job was largely one of management: He had to work with engineers and local contractors, with mayors and local sheiks, all in an effort to make sure that the construction efforts were geared to what the townspeople and local governments wanted. In all, Cissell’s team built 14 schools, four hospitals, five main water stations, four sewage pumping stations, two council buildings, two major police stations, and several electrical grids to distribute power throughout the neighborhoods. For his leadership and service, Cissell was awarded the Bronze Star on Dec. 8, 2006.

• Hometown: Louisville, KY
• Awarded: Bronze Star
• External Links:
  • USS Abraham Lincoln story
  • http://www.defenselink.mil/heroes/profiles/cissellB.html
• Interview:
  • Apr 25, 2007 (3.3MB)
    WDAY 970 AM

Manas Airmen open base to Kyrgyz college students

Manas Airmen open base to Kyrgyz college students

Students from the American University of Central Asia tour a KC-135 Stratotanker during a Nov. 5 visit to Manas Air Base, Kyrgyzstan. Students learned about the mission and the Airmen who serve at the base. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Master Sgt. Patrick J. McCracken) Download HiRes

by Senior Master Sgt. Patrick J. McCracken
376th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs

11/24/2008 - MANAS AIR BASE, Kyrgyzstan (AFNS)  -- Looking for ways to strengthen ties with the local Kyrgyz people, Manas Air Base Airmen hosted 15 students and faculty from the American Central University of Central Asia here Nov. 5.

The AUCA students' first stop was to the wing headquarters building where they were welcomed by Col. Christopher Bence, the 376th Air Expeditionary Wing commander. He explained Airmen here work to support the movement of personnel and equipment into and out of Afghanistan and also refuel aircraft flying over Afghanistan daily with its fleet of KC-135 Stratotankers.

During the briefing, the students learned about 650 Kyrgyz people are employed by Manas AB and many others are employed by local contractors who bid for various base projects. They learned that Airmen, in their off-duty time, volunteer to visit schools and orphanages to help fix plumbing, repair roofs or build playgrounds, and donated money over the years to pay for 114 heart surgeries at the Children's Heart Hospital in Bishkek.

"I think I speak for everyone here when I say that we all had a mental picture of how the American base might be like, but it is nothing like we imagined. It is so much better and the Airmen so friendly," said Madina Alieva, an AUCA student.

After the mission briefing, the students visited the passenger terminal where they got to see firsthand how the wing supports passengers and equipment transiting through Manas AB. Part of that process includes the expeditionary theater distribution center, where servicemembers receive individual body armor prior to going into Afghanistan. 

"I cannot believe how heavy all of this equipment is and how hard it is to maneuver in," said Zemfira Idrisova, an AUCA career counselor assistant. "It must be really tough for those guys to have to wear all of that gear every day."

The students then met the security forces dog handlers and saw a demonstration of the working dogs in action before heading to the flightline and touring a KC-135.

Their visit culminated with a dinner with wing leadership and two AUCA alumni who now work on the base as interpreters. 

"I was so very happy when the base approached me about bringing the students out to see what they do and to share their educational and career experiences," said Lira Djuraeva, an AUCA student career counselor. "I was so impressed with the Airmen here and how real and down to Earth they are. This is such a wonderful opportunity for all of us to have this interaction and we really enjoyed our visit. I am already planning for our next visit."

Manas Airmen open base to Kyrgyz college students

Manas Airmen open base to Kyrgyz college students

Manas Airmen open base to Kyrgyz college students

Manas Airmen open base to Kyrgyz college students

Students from the American University of Central Asia tour a KC-135 Stratotanker during a Nov. 5 visit to Manas Air Base, Kyrgyzstan. Students learned about the mission and the Airmen who serve at the base. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Master Sgt. Patrick J. McCracken)   Download Full Image | E-mail a friend

Students from the American University of Central Asia try on individual body armor used by forces deploying to Afghanistan during a Nov. 5 visit to Manas Air Base, Kyrgyzstan. Students learned about the mission and the Airmen who serve at the base. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Master Sgt. Patrick J. McCracken)   Download Full Image

Manas Airmen open base to Kyrgyz college students

Manas Airmen open base to Kyrgyz college students

Manas Airmen open base to Kyrgyz college students

Manas Airmen open base to Kyrgyz college students

Students from the American University of Central Asia tour a KC-135 Stratotanker during a Nov. 5 visit to Manas Air Base, Kyrgyzstan. Students learned about the mission and the Airmen who serve at the base. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Master Sgt. Patrick J. McCracken)   Download Full Image | E-mail a friend

Students from the American University of Central Asia try on individual body armor used by forces deploying to Afghanistan during a Nov. 5 visit to Manas Air Base, Kyrgyzstan. Students learned about the mission and the Airmen who serve at the base. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Master Sgt. Patrick J. McCracken)   Download Full Image | E-mail a friend

Col. Christopher Bence gives a mission briefing to students from the American University of Central Asia during a Nov. 5 visit to Manas Air Base, Kyrgyzstan. Students learned about the mission and the Airmen who serve at the base. Colonel Bence is the 376th Air Expeditionary Wing commander. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Master Sgt. Patrick J. McCracken)   Download Full Image

Manas Airmen open base to Kyrgyz college students

Manas Airmen open base to Kyrgyz college students

Manas Airmen open base to Kyrgyz college students

Manas Airmen open base to Kyrgyz college students

Students from the American University of Central Asia tour a KC-135 Stratotanker during a Nov. 5 visit to Manas Air Base, Kyrgyzstan. Students learned about the mission and the Airmen who serve at the base. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Master Sgt. Patrick J. McCracken)   Download Full Image | E-mail a friend

Students from the American University of Central Asia try on individual body armor used by forces deploying to Afghanistan during a Nov. 5 visit to Manas Air Base, Kyrgyzstan. Students learned about the mission and the Airmen who serve at the base. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Master Sgt. Patrick J. McCracken)   Download Full Image | E-mail a friend

Col. Christopher Bence gives a mission briefing to students from the American University of Central Asia during a Nov. 5 visit to Manas Air Base, Kyrgyzstan. Students learned about the mission and the Airmen who serve at the base. Colonel Bence is the 376th Air Expeditionary Wing commander. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Master Sgt. Patrick J. McCracken)   Download Full Image | E-mail a friend

Students from the American University of Central Asia have dinner with Airmen during a Nov. 5 visit to Manas Air Base, Kyrgyzstan. Students learned about the mission and the Airmen who serve at the base. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Master Sgt. Patrick J. McCracken)   Download Full Image

Incirlik volunteers strengthen community

Incirlik volunteers strengthen community

Staff Sgt. Christopher Self sands rust off a slide at an Incirlik Village park Nov 15 at Incirlik, Turkey. Sergeant Self was among the estimated 75 volunteers present who helped the Incirlik Air Base Chapel staff renovate the park. Sergeant Self is assigned to the 39th Logistics Readiness Squadron. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Benjamin Wilson) Download HiRes

by Senior Airman Benjamin Wilson
39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs

11/26/2008 - INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey (AFNS) -- Incirlik Air Base members reached out to help citizens of Incirlik by renovating a village park with fresh paint, landscaping and equipment Nov. 15 in the village just outside the base. 

About 75 base volunteers ventured out to the nearby Incirlik Village park to give Turkish children a nicer place to play and a renovated area for the community to gather.

Master Sgt. Edward Gunter of the 39th Operations Squadron and his wife, Darcy, worked with Chaplain (Lt. Col.) James Tims, the 39th Air Base Wing chapel, to get this project underway. They researched the different aspects of the project and then compiled a team to take on the project.

Master Sgts. Kevin Barstow and David Gurley, both of the 39th Civil Engineer Squadron, gathered the proper tools, equipment and personnel needed for each step of the process.

"I also reached out to Lt. Col. Michelle Raven (the 39th Air Base Wing staff judge advocate and project volunteer) because I wanted legal counsel and oversight," Chaplain Tims said.

Not everything in need of repair is handled by the base community.

"The mayor has called the city civil engineer department to test the electrical capability," Chaplain Tims said. "We (volunteers) are buying new fixtures to go over the lights because all the lights are broken. The electrical work will be done by the mayor's office."

Due to its popularity, this park is at the top of the local renovation list.

"This park is without a doubt the biggest need," Chaplain Tims said. "More kids use it than any other local park."

Funding for the project comes completely from donated chapel general funds specifically given for this project, Chaplain Tims said.

"This project will be a success if we visit in January and see children playing in a clean, safe area," Colonel Raven said.

Incirlik volunteers strengthen community

Incirlik volunteers strengthen community

Incirlik volunteers strengthen community

Staff Sgt. Christopher Self sands rust off a slide at an Incirlik Village park Nov 15 at Incirlik, Turkey. Sergeant Self was among the estimated 75 volunteers present who helped the Incirlik Air Base Chapel staff renovate the park. Sergeant Self is assigned to the 39th Logistics Readiness Squadron. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Benjamin Wilson)   Download Full Image | E-mail a friend

Ramazan Celebi and Tech Sgt. Adanzy Hart replace swings at an Incirlik Village park Nov. 15 at Incirlik, Turkey. Sergeant Hart, assigned to the 39th Civil Engineering Squadron, and Mr. Celebi were among the estimated 75 volunteers present who helped the Incirlik Air Base Chapel staff renovate the park. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Benjamin Wilson)   Download Full Image

Incirlik volunteers strengthen community

Incirlik volunteers strengthen community

Incirlik volunteers strengthen community

Staff Sgt. Christopher Self sands rust off a slide at an Incirlik Village park Nov 15 at Incirlik, Turkey. Sergeant Self was among the estimated 75 volunteers present who helped the Incirlik Air Base Chapel staff renovate the park. Sergeant Self is assigned to the 39th Logistics Readiness Squadron. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Benjamin Wilson)   Download Full Image | E-mail a friend

Ramazan Celebi and Tech Sgt. Adanzy Hart replace swings at an Incirlik Village park Nov. 15 at Incirlik, Turkey. Sergeant Hart, assigned to the 39th Civil Engineering Squadron, and Mr. Celebi were among the estimated 75 volunteers present who helped the Incirlik Air Base Chapel staff renovate the park. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Benjamin Wilson)   Download Full Image | E-mail a friend

Senior Airman Jessica Rodulfo adds a new coat of white paint to a concrete wall in one of Incirlik Village's parks Nov. 15 at Incirlik, Turkey. Airman Rodulfo was among the estimated 75 volunteers present who helped the Incirlik Air Base Chapel staff renovate the park. Airman Rodulfo is assigned to the 39th Logistics Readiness Squadron. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Benjamin Wilson)   Download Full Image

Nov. 28 airpower summary

Nov. 28 airpower summary

11/29/2008 - SOUTHWEST ASIA (AFNS) -- Coalition airpower integrated with coalition ground forces in Iraq and International Security Assistance Force troops in Afghanistan during operations Nov. 28, according to Combined Air and Space Operations Center officials here.

In Afghanistan, an Air Force MQ-9 Reaper used Hellfire missiles against anti-Afghan forces carrying weapons and moving away from a compound in the vicinity of Bolocan. Furthermore, coalition aircraft performed shows of force to deter enemy activities in the same area. The missions were confirmed a success by the on-scene joint terminal attack controllers.

In the vicinity of Shkin, Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt IIs dropped 500 pound bombs onto an anti-Afghan forces mortar team that was firing at a coalition convoy from a ridgeline. The JTACs declared the missions were successful.

An A-10 and a coalition aircraft conducted shows of force to deter enemy activities near Lashkar Gah and Sangin. The missions were reported a success by the JTACs.

In the vicinity of Farah and Asmar, Air Force F-15E Strike Eagles performed shows of force and provided armed aerial overwatch to deter anti-Afghan forces from firing at a coalition convoy conducting operations in the area. The JTACs confirmed the missions were successful.

In total, 46 close-air-support missions were flown in support of the ISAF and Afghan security forces, reconstruction activities and route patrols.

Fourteen Air Force intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft flew missions as part of operations in Afghanistan.

In Iraq, coalition aircraft flew 48 close-air-support missions for Operation Iraqi Freedom. These missions integrated and synchronized with coalition ground forces, protected key infrastructure, provided overwatch for reconstruction activities and helped to deter and disrupt hostile activities.

Twenty-seven Air Force, Navy and coalition ISR aircraft flew missions as part of operations in Iraq.

Air Force C-130 Hercules aircraft and C-17 Globemaster IIIs provided intra-theater heavy airlift, helping to sustain operations throughout Afghanistan, Iraq and the Horn of Africa.

Approximately 125 airlift sorties were flown, more than 300 tons of cargo were delivered and nearly 2,700 passengers were transported. Airlift included approximately 28,500 pounds of troop re-supply that was air-dropped in Afghanistan

Coalition C-130 crews flew as part of operations in Afghanistan or Iraq.

On Nov. 27, Air Force and coalition aerial refueling crews flew 49 sorties and off-loaded approximately 3.5 million pounds of fuel to 280 receiving aircraft.

University Donates Textbooks, English Materials to Iraqis

University Donates Engineering Books

By Nita R. Fulford
Special to American Forces Press Service

CAMP MITTICA, Iraq, Nov. 26, 2008 – In a country with a desperate need for engineers, two 402nd Army Field Support Brigade contractors are bridging an Oregon university with Iraqi students and faculty thirsty for knowledge.

From far left, Jesus Quispe, Josh Mater, Dhi Qar University Chancellor Ali Ismael Obeidi al-Snafi and various university staff members look over textbooks donated by the Oregon State University College of Engineering. U.S. Army photo by Maj. Chad Carroll   (Click photo for screen-resolution image);high-resolution image available.

About 200 students and teachers from Dhi Qar University are the beneficiaries of new engineering textbooks from the Oregon State University College of Engineering delivered during a Nov. 11 ceremony that marked the beginning of an exchange program to enhance higher education.

Joshua Mater, president of the Michael Scott Mater Foundation, and Jesus Quispe, vice president of the foundation, presented Chancellor Ali Ismael Obeidi al-Snafi of Dhi Qar University with the books, worth $20,000, as well as English-as-a-second-language materials from the Book Wish Foundation and Oxford University Press. The English materials are from the Headway Program, which teaches English as a second language.

Mater credited Army Col. Robert P. Sullivan, 402nd Army Field Support Brigade commander, and Army Lt. Col. Joe Hart, commander of the brigade’s 2nd Battalion, with facilitating the donation.

“Thanks to the support of Colonel Sullivan and Lieutenant Colonel Hart of the 402nd AFSB, we are one step closer to making this partnership a reality,” Mater said.

The brigade is part of the Army Sustainment Command’s global logistics support network. Sullivan requested the support of leadership and approved the manpower to execute the mission, and many members of the 2nd Battalion worked in various capacities to facilitate the project.

Mater is the 402nd AFSB’s operations officer, and Quispe is the redistribution property accountability team administrator for the brigade’s 2nd Battalion logistics function. Both work for Honeywell Technology Solutions.

The Michael Scott Mater Foundation is a nonprofit group that aims to provide better education for poor students and communities around the world by providing education, life skills, equal rights, values and a caring environment, according to the foundation’s Web site.

With the Iraq project, the foundation worked with representatives of both universities to develop a relationship that will benefit both through cooperative learning, Mater said. The primary initiatives are to develop an exchange program that will target engineering and English language majors at the master’s degree level and develop professional training seminars focused on Iraqi city planners, engineers and public servants, he added.

Mater, an OSU graduate and former Army captain who spent eight months helping to rebuild Iraq, drew on his alma mater to continue his work.

“More than any other time in recent history, Iraq’s destiny is of its own choosing,” he said. “The youth of this country did not seek, nor did they provoke, strict limitations on what they are able to achieve. They did not expect, nor did they invite, a confrontation with fundamentalism. Yet, the true measure of a people’s strength is how they rise to master those moments when they do arrive.

“This is a time for Iraqi heroes. They will do what is hard and achieve what is great.”

The foundation is named for Mater’s father, Michael Scott Mater, who was president of Mater Engineering of Corvallis, Ore. He was at the forefront of community development and improvement projects, and died of cancer in 2002.

The textbook exchange was a collaboration of multiple entities, Mater said. In addition to OSU and Dhi Qar University, it also included the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the U.S. State Department, the Book Wish Foundation, Honeywell Technology Solutions, and the 1st Cavalry Division’s 4th Brigade Combat Team from Fort Hood, Texas, as well as officials at Contingency Operations Base Adder and 402nd AFSB leadership at Joint Base Balad, both in Iraq.

“This exchange program represents a new trend in partnering between American and Iraqi universities,” Ali, the chancellor, said.

Where traditional relationships usually rely on national government intervention, this program will bring the two university leaders together at Oregon State in early 2009 to discuss curriculum structuring and formalize an agreement that will enable students from Dhi Qar University to study at OSU, Mater said.

“We are bound together by centuries of commitments by those who came before us to a love of learning, an abiding search for truths and a sense of duty to find solutions for the problems of humanity,” OSU President Ed Ray wrote in a letter to Ali for the textbook exchange.

(Nita R. Fulford works at the 402nd Army Field Support Brigade.)

The Power of the Propaganda of Peace

During the Cold War, our Enemy developed an entire directorate of the KGB to conduct Misinformation operations.  The World had learned during World War II how important not only accurate Intelligence was but also how effective it was to provide the enemy with seemingly accurate but patently false intelligence was. 

Stalin executed people who provided him accurate information concerning a Nazi invasion because he was convinced by the misinformation.  D-Day was successful in part because Hitler was convinced by a very effective plan that convinced him that it would occur elsewhere.  When it became apparent that Germany would lose, their Army concentrated their forces on holding off the Soviets long enough to allow American Victory on the western front.  Why?

The Germans knew that the Soviets would oppress their Nation while America & Britain would deal fairly with the defeated Nation.  Even in a loss, they sought the best for their Nation and people.  But with Victory in a hot war came the onset of a long "Cold War" with a former ally turned foe.

For decades to come, Communism spread on rally cries of "Power to the People," while the blood of the people was shed to create absolute tyranny over the people that provided the power to the tyrants. 

But there is a key component to winning on the battlefield no matter the morality of the struggle: the will of the people to continue the high cost of battle.  If the will of the people considers the struggle unworthy of the cost, they will not support the struggle.  The Disinformation Directorate of the KGB was established to erode the will of people of those opposing tyranny while building support of the will of the people to support Communism.

It developed and supported movements within the United States to erode the will of the people to oppose it's expansion globally.  It  needed only a few people willing to commit to its cause and spread its specious slogans.  The bulk of these forces were normal Americans who were as opposed to Communist tyranny as those willing to sacrifice all to oppose it, but that had bought the specious slogans undermining the fact that "the only thing necessary for evil to reign is for good men to do nothing."

No one likes war, particularly not those who fight wars: Troops.  But war is sometimes necessary.  Wars will happen no matter if good people deem it necessary or if they deem it perpetually evil.  In some wars, such as was the case in the war against Nazi Germany, wars are fought between honorable Soldiers but one side of which was ruled by an evil tyrant.  Today's enemies are not honorable, nor are their leaders, which makes the necessity greater, not less.

Our Troops today are the most honorable, best trained and most effective Military ever to set foot on the battlefield.  They are fighting a concentration of one of the most evil, vile, tyrannical designed enemies we have ever faced.  Our Troops risk their own life and limb to protect civilians while our enemy purposely kill and torture civilians, most notably women and children.

On 9/12/2001, it would have seemed incomprehensible that a disinformation campaign against our Actions could have any effect at all or that even our old foe the Communists would take it upon themselves.  It seemed we were united as a Nation, finally, against a belatedly recognized threat that had continued to attack us until they could no longer be ignored.

But neither communism nor islamism can stand alone against freedom and democracy nor Our Troops.  As seemingly opposed as communism appears to be to islamism, it is not.  They share a desire for absolute power and tyranical rule.  They recognize that the greatest threat to their tyranny is for their people to see the successful economic freedom of those like them just across their borders and around the world.

And hence we find the same leadership that has opposed the Cold War fight against Communism leading the opposition to a Hot War against terrorism and Islamism.  We find the same people leading the propaganda against our Troops in Iraq and Afghanistan that for decades have fought the training of Latin American military leaders in Human Rights and Military Tactics at Fort Benning.

We find that we are enticed today by the specious slogans of "no more war," "make love not war," and "free healthcare" paid for by higher taxes on those "evil" rich people to erode the support of the American people for the Mission of our Honorable Troops against a truly evil enemy.

"Freedom is not Free."  It is paid for in blood and it must be defended from tyrants and terrorists as well as politicians that attempt to erode it.

The fact that the deeds reported on this website and so many others like it goes unreported by our media should raise suspicion.  The fact that those openly hostile to Victory on the battlefield so quickly report every loss on the battlefield should be noted and questioned to motivation.  We will find that much of the journalistic world is subjectively supporting a party while being led unknowingly into erosion of the very freedoms they enjoy, but that others are more actively engaged in spreading the propaganda of the enemy, i.e.  the erosion of support of the people for opposition to the enemy.

The next time you read a news article that tells you the latest loss of an American Soldier, check here for how many American Victories, how many enemy losses that same article refused to report.  And ask yourself how your own support for the Mission would be effected by the knowledge that Our Troops are winning and how much they are sacrificing for your freedom, your success, your comfort, and the freedoms of others, given only what the mainstream media is reporting.  Ask yourself why the press continues to report only the negatives, only those things that would negatively effect your opinion of the Troops and their Mission.

Ask the media why they refuse to report of the Generosity of Our Troops, the Losses of our Enemy, and the Victories of Our Troops.

And then expose yourself to the truth, the facts, and the opinions of sites developed by Our Troops, Our Veterans, and those that have risked all and sacrificed much to keep you safe.  Those that continue to devote years of their lives and entire lives by re-enlisting to take those risks for your freedoms.  Sites like this one, like Bouhammers, like Vets4Victory, and like this one: http://pricewepay.net/patriots/ from a Cold War Veteran that fought two hot wars against Communism: one hot and one openly contested here at home.

Demand that the newsmedia return to Objectively and Truthfully support the freedoms they enjoy above the party they endorse.  And remind them that their subscriptions will continue to decline, along with their advertising dollars, if they continue to be the propaganda tool of the parties to which they subscribe and the enemies we fight.

War on Terror News©2007-2008, ARM, all rights reserved.

AFPC Airmen hold unit run in honor of Warrior Care Month

AFPC Airmen hold unit run in honor of Warrior Care Month

by 2nd Lt. Gina Vaccaro
Air Force Personnel Center Public Affairs

11/26/2008 - RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas (AFNS)  -- Hundreds of Airmen from the Air Force Personnel Center here ran through the streets around Airmen's Heritage Park here Nov. 25 in honor of Air Force wounded warriors.

AFPC officials hosted the run as part of Warrior Care Month to honor the sacrifices of Air Force wounded warriors and to increase awareness and support for them.

Maj. Gen. K.C. McClain, the AFPC commander, introduced the event acknowledging Warrior Care Month and AFPC's role in supporting wounded warriors.

"November is set aside by the Department of Defense to honor wounded warriors, and AFPC plays a key role in supporting them," General McClain said. "We have worked policies and developed programs to help (wounded warriors) return to active duty in the Air Force or to transition into civilian life."

Staff Sgt. Scott Lilley, an Airman who was wounded in Iraq and is overcoming his injuries so he can return to active duty, attended the event and thanked the runners.

"I would like to thank all of you for showing your support," Sergeant Lilley said. "It means a lot not only to me, but also to all other injured Airmen."

On April 15, 2007, while Sergeant Lilley was deployed in Iraq, his Humvee was attacked and a piece of shrapnel penetrated his brain. Barely 18 months later, Sergeant Lilley has graduated from the Basic Instructor Course at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, and is planning to return to active duty as a security forces instructor there.

General McClain described Sergeant Lilley's perseverance and his will to survive before the run began.

"Sergeant Lilley's decision to stay in the Air Force is a testament to his courage and serves as an example of one of the many Air Force wounded warriors sacrificing for us every day," the general said.

After the run, Sergeant Lilley spoke of his rehabilitation and of the Air Force's Wounded Warrior program. He praised the services he received and the support the military has given his family throughout his recovery. He also spoke of his plan to return to active duty and encouraged other wounded warriors to do the same.

"By coming back to active duty, you will not only be doing good for yourself, you will be doing a lot of good for the Air Force," Sergeant Lilley said.

Also during the run, a group of AFPC Airmen ran in formation carrying rucksacks in honor of all wounded warriors. Runners were also invited to wear a runner's bib honoring wounded warriors. 

AFPC officials also worked with the Randolph AFB Company Grade Officers Council to collect donations of nonperishable food items to donate to the Fisher House at Lackland AFB. Fisher House Inc. is a nonprofit organization that provides lodging, food and transportation to families of Airmen receiving medical treatment.

Warrior Care Month is part of an ongoing Defense Department initiative to care for and support wounded warriors and their family members. For more information about Warrior Care Month or the Wounded Warrior Program, visit the Air Force Wounded Warrior Web site at http://www.woundedwarrior.af.mil/.

Nov. 27 airpower summary

Nov. 27 airpower summary 

11/28/2008 - SOUTHWEST ASIA (AFNS) -- Coalition airpower integrated with coalition ground forces in Iraq and International Security Assistance Force troops in Afghanistan during operations Nov. 27, according to Combined Air and Space Operations Center officials here. 

In Afghanistan, Air Force F-15E Strike Eagles and A-10 Thunderbolt IIs fired cannon rounds, and a Navy F/A-18F Super Hornet dropped a guided bomb unit-38 onto anti-Afghan forces in the vicinity of Morghab. The missions were confirmed a success by on-scene joint terminal attack controllers. 

In the vicinity of Bari Kowt, F-15Es dropped a GBU-31 and a GBU-38 onto anti-coalition members who were firing at a coalition forces convoy from a cave on the hillside. The JTAC declared the mission was successful. 

Coalition aircraft conducted a show of force to deter enemy activities near Mushan. The mission was reported a success by the JTAC. 

In the vicinity of Malek Din and Qalat, F-15Es performed shows of force and provided armed aerial overwatch to deter anti-Afghan forces from firing at a coalition convoy traveling to a nearby forward operating base along the Pakistan, Afghanistan border. The JTACs confirmed the missions were successful. 

A Navy F/A-18E Super Hornet conducted a show of force to deter enemy fighters and provided armed aerial overwatch for a coalition convoy in the vicinity of Lashkar Gah. The mission was declared a success by the JTAC. 

In the vicinity of Shkin, an A-10 conducted a show of force to deter anti-Afghan activities. The JTAC reported the mission was successful.

A coalition aircraft performed a show of force to deter anti-coalition members who were emplacing improvised explosive devices on the side of a known travel route near Gereshk. The mission was declared a success by the JTAC. 

In total, 69 close-air-support missions were flown in support of the ISAF and Afghan security forces, reconstruction activities and route patrols. 

Fourteen Air Force intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft flew missions as part of operations in Afghanistan. Additionally, four Navy and coalition aircraft performed tactical reconnaissance. 

In Iraq, Air Force F-16CJ Fighting Falcons performed shows of force and provided armed aerial overwatch for coalition ground forces who were conducting IED search operations in the vicinity of Baqubah. The JTACs confirmed the missions were successful. 

In total, coalition aircraft flew 48 close-air-support missions for Operation Iraqi Freedom. These missions integrated and synchronized with coalition ground forces, protected key infrastructure, provided overwatch for reconstruction activities and helped to deter and disrupt hostile activities. 

Thirty-two Air Force, Navy and coalition ISR aircraft flew missions as part of operations in Iraq. Additionally, three Air Force and coalition aircraft performed tactical reconnaissance. 

Air Force C-130 Hercules aircraft and C-17 Globemaster IIIs provided intra-theater heavy airlift, helping to sustain operations throughout Afghanistan, Iraq and the Horn of Africa. 

Approximately 100 airlift sorties were flown, more than 350 tons of cargo were delivered and nearly 1,700 passengers were transported. 

Coalition C-130 crews flew as part of operations in Afghanistan or Iraq. 

On Nov. 26, Air Force and coalition aerial refueling crews flew 50 sorties and off-loaded approximately 3.7 million pounds of fuel to 290 receiving aircraft.

Dangerous Liasions: Chavez, Castro, & Others

The Head in the Sand crowd often point to a regional tyrant and their relative weakness in comparison to our own power.   Some seem to endorse a sense of "fairness" in dealing with them, that we should not utilize the bulk of our National ability to confront an "incapable" regional bully. 

As we prepared for Our Thanksgiving Day weekend, we were confronted with the News of Terrorism in Mumbai, India, attacks which at the most recent count killed 195 people on the other side of the world.  Few people in our Nation realize that India is attacked more by terrorists than nearly any other nation.  And this was a major attack, designed to demonstrate by our enemy that it is alive and well, capable of a coordinated attack in the home of their enemy.

But what does this have to do with Chavez and other irritants?  Chavez did not plan or execute those attacks. He was preparing for the arrival of Russia's new President at the time.  Like Ahdiminijihadist, his words are more bluster than reality.  The problem is that he may let himself bite off more than he can chew.  The same goes for Ahdiminijihadist and others.

Chavez's power is derived primarily by the social programs he established with oil money.  But as the price of oil shot up, he failed to re-invest into the infrastructure that was paying the bills.  In fact, he was busy doing the opposite, running off the very companies that were investing in his financial well-being: Oil Companies.

In the last few months the price of oil has dropped from an all-time high of nearly $150/barrel to a more realistic $55/barrel neighborhood.  This is good news for most of the world, including the United States, but it is bad news for those tyrants that have staked their economies solely to the high price of oil.  Several Nations have break even points of $75/barrel and many of those nations have long term policies of being our opponents. 

In short, this is doubly good news for Our Nation.  Gas prices have dropped, the cost of goods transported to our stores should reflect the lower costs, and our enemies should begin to feel the economic crunch instead of us.  Our recovery and their pains are related.  And I don't feel a tad bit bad about it.

I do not propose military actions at this time even if we must continue to train and be prepared to act should such an action become necessary.

But we must also be vigilant of those yapping chihuahuas that may have gotten themselves into a position they can't get out of.  And though it would not be intuitive, the Communists of the left are interconnected to the Islamists of the far right.  Ahdimnijihadist and Chavez are united in irritating the United States.  They are united in their desire to keep dictatorial governments like their own viable in a world shedding tyranny, just as WWI was in large part fought to keep monarchy a viable form of government.

Should it become necessary to confront these enemies militarily, it is not "fair" nor responsible to "play fair."  Overwhelming force saves lives; most importantly the lives of Our Troops, but also lives of our future allies but current opponents.  As important, our ability and willingness to do so, when necessary, to use force makes it less likely we will need to do so.

Our diplomats can work out more favorable deals when they have at their disposal both favorable and punitive actions to offer.  Our diplomats can more effectively prevent the necessity of war when they have the best information about the preparedness of the opponent to wage war, i.e. Intelligence Reports.

War on Terror News©2007-2008, ARM, all rights reserved.

Coalition forces kill Cross-Dressing Taliban Commander 2008

Coalition forces kill Taliban commander

from U.S. Forces Afghanistan

11/29/2008 - KABUL, Afghanistan -- Coalition forces killed four Taliban fighters, including a targeted Taliban commander who was dressed as a woman, during an operation to disrupt the Taliban's roadside bomb and foreign fighter networks in Ghanzni province, Friday. 

Coalition forces killed Haji Yakub, a Taliban commander in Qarabagh district, which is located approximately 290 km southwest of Kabul. The Taliban commander was responsible for killing innocent civilians by directing roadside bomb, suicide and other attacks against GIRoA and Coalition forces in the region. Intelligence also suggests Yakub facilitated the movements of foreign fighters, weapons and bomb making materials into Ghazni. 

While the force approached the targeted building they received small-arms fire from two armed militants. Coalition forces returned fire, killing both militants. The force then proceeded to instruct all individuals inside the compound to surrender and exit. Six women and 12 children responded to the command and exited the building peacefully. As the force questioned the women they discovered one woman was actually a male dressed in women's clothing and wearing a burqa. The male, later identified as Yakub, attempted to engage the force and was killed. 

During the operation, a fourth armed militant was killed after he displayed hostile intent and attempted to engage the force. 

A search of the compound revealed multiple AK-47 assault rifles and other military equipment. 

Col. Jerry O'Hara commented that "Coalition forces continue to pursue these enemies of the innocent and do their upmost to prevent further harm to Afghan citizens."

[According to the Koran, Cross-dressing is a sin.  According to Warriors, dressing up in a woman's veil is a cowardly way to attempt escape.  According to the CAIR (and under consideration by the TSA), 2010, those dressed in a Muslim woman's veil should not be searched below the neck.]

War In Afghanistan Daily News - November 29, 2008

Coalition, Afghan Vehicles Collide in Kabul Highway Accident

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 28, 2008 – A coalition-forces vehicle and a van carrying Afghan civilians were involved in a traffic accident on Highway 1 in the capital city of Kabul today, military officials said.

Both vehicles were traveling east when the van attempted to move into the left lane of traffic where it struck the side of the coalition vehicle, according to a U.S. military news release. The coalition vehicle’s driver was unable to swerve to avoid the van, the release said, because of a median separating the east-bound and west-bound lanes of traffic. The Afghan van skidded off the highway and struck a roadside shop.

The release didn’t say whether or not coalition forces or Afghan civilians had been injured or killed as a result of the accident.

The accident was reported to the Afghan National Police. The incident is under investigation.

“We regret this incident and express our condolences to the families and people involved,” said Army Col. Jerry O’Hara, U.S. Forces Afghanistan spokesman.

In news yesterday, Afghan and coalition forces killed seven militants and uncovered three caches containing drugs and improvised explosive device-making materials during a clearing operation in Nahr Surkh district, Helmand province.

In Nov. 26 operations:

Coalition forces killed 15 militants and detained six suspected militants during an early-morning raid in Anizai, part of Zhari district in Kandahar province.

Afghan and coalition forces detained seven suspected militants during a combined operation aimed at disrupting the Haqqani terrorist network in Khost province.

(Compiled from U.S. Forces Afghanistan news releases.)

News From NATO

ISAF counters rocket attacks from insurgents

KABUL, Afghanistan — ISAF countered three attempts by insurgent forces to attack ISAF bases in Bermel district, Paktika, Nov. 27.

ISAF soldiers first saw two insurgents positioning rockets in preparation for an attack. The ISAF troops fired six artillery rounds at the location.

Incident on Jalalabad Rd, Kabul

KABUL, Afghanistan — ISAF is aware of an incident which took place this afternoon on the Jalalabad Rd, approximately 1.5km south of Kabul International Airport.

An ISAF patrol was dispatched from Camp SOUTER having received reports that a civilian contractor had been involved in a traffic accident.

News From Bagram Air Base

ANSF, Coalition forces disrupt militant operations in Helmand

KABUL, Afghanistan -- Afghan National Security Forces and Coalition forces killed 33 militants Friday in Nad Ali District, Helmand province, about 150 kilometers west of Kandahar city in southern Afghanistan.

Pilot surpasses 3,000 hours in A-10 Thunderbolt

BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan -- The list of single-seat fighter pilots who have flown 3,000 hours in one particular aircraft is short. On Nov. 21, a new name was added to that list when Lt. Col. David Dressel, flew his 3,000th hour in an A-10 Thunderbolt II while flying a close air support mission over Afghanistan.

House Armed Services Committee delegation visits Camp Eggers

KABUL, Afghanistan -- Servicemembers at Camp Eggers shared breakfast with several members of the House Armed Services Committee, or HASC, delegation during their visit on Thanksgiving Day to Combined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan, or CSTC-A, headquarters.

Air Force spouse raises funds for wounded warriors

Air Force spouse raises funds for wounded warriors

Sonja McDonald talks on the phone Nov. 25 in San Antonio. She did a lot of talking during a six-week period in 2006 to raise $217,000 toward the construction, operation and maintenance of the two newest Fisher Houses in San Antonio. Mrs. McDonald is a vice-president of marketing at a local credit union. (U.S. Air Force photo/Lance Cheung) Download HiRes

by Ryan Mattox
Defense Media Activity-San Antonio

11/26/2008 - SAN ANTONIO (AFNS) -- When her husband deployed to Iraq in January of 2006, Sonja McDonald decided to spend her time waiting for his return home, raising money to help wounded warriors and their families.

Mrs. McDonald is married to Capt. Jim McDonald, a nurse at San Antonio Military Medical Center-North, formally known as Brooke Army Medical Center. Mrs. McDonald and her husband are working to help make the war-torn lives of those who are in Iraq and Afghanistan and returning from there a little bit better. 

"He was trying to make a difference for them over there, and I wanted to make a difference here and make sure those here were going to get the care they needed here," Mrs. McDonald said.

After hearing about the Center for the Intrepid and two Fisher Houses being built here through her employer, Mrs. McDonald said she called a local Fisher House here to see how she could make a donation.

"I talked to the Fisher House, but at first, (the official there) thought I just wanted to donate a few hundred dollars," Mrs. McDonald said. "I told her no, I wanted to do something bigger. She then passed me to the Fisher House Foundation. So, I went to my employer and asked if I raised $200,000 between Memorial Day and Fourth of July would you match it, and they said yes." 

Fortunately for the Fisher House Foundation and Mrs. McDonald, her employer started her off with $100,000.

With those funds in hand, she jumped into fundraising mode and campaigned in the local area to raise the rest. Mrs. McDonald, a vice-president of marketing at a San Antonio credit union, managed to raise and additional $217,000 in donations for Fisher House in that six-week period of 2006.

"I held luncheons, meetings, called people, went to a Fourth of July parade, and made speeches. I took any opportunity I could get just to get $10," she said.

Also added to her amount was a $200,000 matching donation from her employer. The $517,000 raised was used to complete Fisher Houses 1 and 2 at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio.

The inspiration behind Mrs. McDonald's efforts was a fellow mother, Becky Ziegel. The mother of a Marine who had been staying at Fort Sam Houston talked to Mrs. McDonald about her experience at the Fisher House.

"I think what sticks in my head when you ask a mom what would you do without the Fisher House is when Becky told me she would have lived in a cardboard box and washed up at the Texaco," Mrs. McDonald said. That grabs at your heart and that's what the Fisher House is trying to prevent. 

"Becky actually helped me with the fundraising," she said. "She went out with me and talked to people."

"I raised money and I did what I had to do, but let's face it, nothing that I did compares to the sacrifices made by those who serve our country and their families. I feel it is our duty to help them," Mrs. McDonald said.

Her efforts in raising the money did go unnoticed by those at the Fisher House. In October, Mrs. McDonald was given a Volunteer Service Award from President Bush in October of 2008.

The Fisher House was founded by Zachary and Elizabeth Fisher in 1990. By 2005, the network had grown to 33 homes that provides a place to stay for families of patients receiving medical care at major military and Veterans Administration medical centers.

"I really don't know what the families would do without the Fisher House," said Grace Blancett, a volunteer coordinator at the Fisher House. "I feel for the families dealing with long-term care and the injuries to their loved ones. I am just happy its here."

War In Iraq News Daily - November 29, 2008

 

Art, Culture Show Opens in Doura

Saturday, 29 November 2008

An Iraqi artist displays his painting at the Doura Art and Culture Show in the Rashid District of southern Baghdad, Nov. 26, 2008. Photo by Maj. David Olson, 4th Infantry Division Public Affairs.

FOB FALCON — Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers joined artists, musicians and Iraqi citizens to celebrate the premier of an art exhibition, Nov. 26, in the Rashid District of southern Baghdad.

The Iraq artists assembled more than 100 artworks at the Doura Technical College to showcase their ability in the local community, an epicenter of commerce for the eastern Rashid area.

Community leaders and local patrons filled rooms prepared with paintings, sculptures and photographs portraying the exhibition’s theme: “New Life, New Culture.”

Doura, a neighborhood with a notorious reputation for its intense sectarian violence, saw credible progress since the arrival of the 2nd Battalion, 4th Infantry Regiment, in November 2007, said Lt. Col. Timothy Watson, commander of the “Warrior” Battalion, attached to the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division.

“We think the event shows incredible work by the people of Doura to bring the community back to life,” stated Watson, a San Diego native. “We are hopeful the progress here will continue.”

Watson described the art show as the pinnacle of social events in his area of operations.

“Thanks to the hard efforts of Capt. Brett Walker and cooperation with the 1st BCT Embedded Provincial Reconstruction Team, we’ve been working towards this in Doura for the last 12 months,” said Watson.

The EPRT team played a crucial role in identifying important details of the show, said Walker, an infantry officer assigned to the 2nd Bn., 4th Inf. Regt, who serves as the information operations officer. The Soldiers offered their assistance to facilitate the five-day event; however, it remains an Iraqi-led event.

“The people of Rashid are ready for art; they are ready for a sophisticated reputation,” added Walker, who hails from Mill Valley, Calif. “It’s a new national identity that will endure for ages.”

Faruq Fu’ad Rafiq Hamdani, a featured artist and event organizer, said he believes everybody continually worked hard to set up for the art and culture show.

It took Hamdani 20 days to prepare supplies and artwork for the show. He said he credits the exhibition to the true efforts of both Iraqis and Coalition forces, adding that the Iraqi people are in need of a place to relieve stress and tiredness.

“These places need to be full of color, exhibition, and true happiness,” he explained.

Hashem Mahmood, the deputy chairman of the Rashid District Counsel, said the variety of artwork served as a canvas for the Iraqi people’s concerns.

“This is what Iraqis are all about,” explained Mahmood. “We have security, so we can have the art show.”

The Doura Art and Culture Show is scheduled to remain open for five days, and buyers can purchase the artwork on the last day of the event.

(By Sgt. David Hodge, 4th Infantry Division)

Bush Hails Passage of New U.S, Iraq Security Pact

WASHINGTON — President George W. Bush and other senior U.S. officials hailed the new U.S.-Iraq security pact that was approved by Iraqi lawmakers in Baghdad Thursday. The two-part security pact consists of a strategic framework agreement that establishes the foundation of a long-term bilateral relationship between the United States and Iraq, as well as a status-of-forces agreement that stipulates how U.S. forces are affected by Iraqi laws.

Iraqi Emergency Response Brigade Soldiers Complete Training

BAGHDAD — With chests out, arms to their sides, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with their brothers in arms, 142 emergency response brigade graduates swore an oath of allegiance to Iraq during a ceremony, Nov. 20.

 

New AFCEA Chapter Holds First Meeting

BAGHDAD — History was made at Al Faw palace, Nov. 24, when the first chapter of the Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association International in Iraq held its first chapter meeting. The Baghdad chapter, officially activated Sept. 22, was joined from Washington via video-teleconference by the President and CEO of AFCEA International, Kent Schneider; Executive Vice President, Lt. Gen. (Ret.) John Dubia and the Director of Membership and Chapter Services, Curt Adams.

 

Interactive Iraq :: Video News

Iraqi Freedom Minute, Nov. 27

•This edition features a story on a female Apache helicopter pilot.

Watch Now

Friday, 28 November 2008	Art, culture show opens in Doura community
Friday, 28 November 2008	IA, MND-B Soldiers seize weapons, munitions throughout Baghdad

 

Cornucopia

Friday, 28 November 2008 MND-B Soldiers seize mortar cache (Baghdad)

Lasting Pride

Friday, 28 November 2008 Native American Heritage Month celebrated through dance, expressed universal themes (Baghdad)

Sergeant Major

 

Friday, 28 November 2008	New AFCEA chapter in Baghdad holds first chapter meeting (Baghdad)
Friday, 28 November 2008	Chief of Chaplains visits troops for Thanksgiving (Baghdad)

 

Ancient Arch

 

Friday, 28 November 2008	Female IP recruits on target (Baghdad)
Friday, 28 November 2008	MND-B Soldiers detain 4 suspected criminals (Baghdad)
Friday, 28 November 2008	Two suspected AQI terrorists captured Thursday

 

SPC Jeremy Church, Silver Star, Army Reserves, Iraq, Bartonville, IL

 

Jeremy Church

Private First Class Jeremy Church, U.S. Army, was driving the lead vehicle in a convoy along one of the most dangerous routes in Iraq to pick up fuel at Baghdad International Airport when 150 – 200 members of the al Sadr militia ambushed the convoy with RPGs, IEDs and small-arms fire.

Church drove aggressively through the kill-zone to dodge explosions, obstacles, and small arms fire. When the convoy commander was shot, Church grabbed his first aid pouch, ripped it open, and told the platoon leader to apply a bandage.

When an IED blew out a tire, Church continued driving for four miles on only three tires, all the while firing his M-16 out the window with his left hand. He finally led the convoy into a security perimeter established by a cavalry company. After carrying his platoon leader to a casualty collection point for treatment, Church rallied the troops to launch an immediate recovery mission and escorted them back into the kill-zone.

Church identified the assistant commander’s vehicle amidst heavy black smoke and the wreckage of burning fuel tankers to find two more wounded soldiers and four civilian truck drivers. He treated a soldier with a sucking chest wound and carried him to a recovery vehicle while exposing himself to continuous enemy fire from both sides of the road.

When all the wounded were loaded in the truck, there was no room for Church, who volunteered to remain behind. He climbed into a disabled Humvee for cover and continued firing at and killing insurgents until the recovery team returned. He loaded up several more wounded before sweeping the area for sensitive items and evacuating.

Church was credited with saving the lives of at least five soldiers and four civilians. The commitment, selfless service, and personal courage Church demonstrated during the April 9, 2004, attack earned him the distinction of being the Army Reserve's first Silver Star recipient in the Iraq War and the first Army Reserve soldier to earn that medal since the Vietnam War.

• Home State: Bartonville, Ill.
• Unit: 724th Transportation Company
• Awarded: Silver Star
• http://www.defenselink.mil/heroes/profiles/churchJ.html

Let's Bring Em Home!

That's right, let's bring our troops home!   Home in time for the holidays!  Home in time for Christmas!!

Now, before you go off and get ballistic on me, I am not talking about pulling our troops out, I am talking about a wonderful group LBEH (Let's Bring Em Home) that individual military members may go to for assistance in getting a round trip ticket home for the holidays!

"The world is a very different place from what it was seven years ago when you and I first began this journey. As public opinion for the war in Iraq has molded the phrase, "bring them home," to imply other motives, I want to take a minute and remind everyone of the purpose behind LBEH. We are not for the war in Iraq, nor are we against it. We are not Republican, Democrat, Libertarian, Green or Independent. We are not pro-Obama or pro-McCain. Our motives serve not to change world events, or your perception of them. Our mission is as simple, as it is noble. All we want to do is unite a few military families for the Christmas holiday. That's it. No hidden agendas, no political speeches. We just buy plane tickets for troops. Period."

This group was started back in December of 2001.  Last year they were able to purchase tickets for 135 sailors, soldiers and Marines to get home for Christmas.  A donation to Let's Bring Em Home! is tax deductible, they are a recognized 501(c) charity.

They have had to temporarily close the request a ticket page, until further donations come in!!!  They currently have fulfilled the requests of 18 out of approximately 55 requests for tickets.  They have raised slightly over half of the needed amount for the rest of the tickets!

It is simple to donate.  You may do so through PayPal.  If you are not comfortable with that method, you may mail a check or donate by way of a wire transfer.  Here is the page with all of the particulars needed to make your donation today!

If you are interested in donating to this group or other related ones, LBEM has a page with links to other sites where you can still help a deserving member of our military!

"Please help! One thing I've noticed over the past few months is all the cars driving around with those magnetic yellow ribbons on the back. While I think it's a great show of support for the troops, I find myself wondering if this person really does care about the well being of our men and women in uniform, or if they're just appeasing their own guilty conscience. I wonder if they pop this commercialized logo on the back of their family sedan and say to themselves, "Well I've done my part." Because if that's all we do -- a meaningless magnet that we picked up as an afterthought while buying a cup of coffee -- then we've really let down those who fight to protect us from evil.

We need to do more. We need to do more than to just sit on our butts and eat turkey, while the "United We Stand" sticker on your car window grows more and more faded each day. We need to do more than to set our VCR to record a Discovery Channel documentary on our troops over in Iraq and Afghanistan. We need to do more and you know it just as much as I do."

Copyright 2008 MsMarti. All rights reserved.

The Complete Agent Orange Story

If you would like to read about the use of Agent Orange, get a good time line for when, where, and how much was used while our military was fighting in Vietnam, this is a great place to head over to.

They start in 1990 then take you back to the 50's and 60's and come forward with information on the use of Agent Orange.  They have the documentation of studies that were done, information that was never released to the government by the chemical companies at that time about the dangers of Agent Orange to those who came in contact with it and more.

At the end of the page, there are links where you can find more documentation, more information regarding Agent Orange.

Source:  http://wildgun1.com/AgentOrange/id1.html

Copyright 2008 MsMarti. All rights reserved.

Nominations Open for Outstanding Employers of Guardsmen, Reservists

Nominations Open for Employer Awards

By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 26, 2008 – The National Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve has opened nominations for its 2009 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award.

National Guardsmen, reservists and their families have until Jan. 19 to nominate employers they believe have gone above and beyond requirements in their support of military employees.

“In the past, recipients of the Freedom Award have provided full salary, continuation of benefits, or care packages -- even family support -- to employees fulfilling their military obligation,” said Beth Sherman, an ESGR spokeswoman.

Sherman noted that while some past Freedom Award winners have been large corporations, even small companies have proven to be especially supportive of their reserve-component employees.

“This year for example, we had Robinson Transport, … a small, family-owned business out of Utah,” she said. “They had, out of their 150 employees, five deployed.”

The company purchased each of the deployed employees a laptop computer for use while they were gone and contributed $5,000 so they could upgrade their Internet connections at home. They even provided $1,000 a month to supplement their deployed employees’ household incomes for the duration of their deployments.

“They also provided full life, health, and dental insurance benefits and kept everything going for them to be able to go out and do their job without having to worry about their family or their bills back home,” Sherman said. “That’s kind of above and beyond … what is required by the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act.”

Robinson Transport was one of 2,199 employers nominated for the 2008 awards. That number represents a 97 percent increase over the number of nominations in 2007, Sherman said. Since nominations for the 2009 awards opened Nov. 3, 628 nominations have come in, putting ESGR on track to surpass last year’s record number.

Recipients of the 2009 award will be announced in the spring and honored during the 14th annual Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award ceremony Sept. 17 in Washington.

The Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award was established in 1996 under the auspices of the National Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve to recognize exceptional employer support.

ESGR, a Defense Department agency, was established in 1972 with a mission of gaining and maintaining support for Guardsmen and reservists by recognizing outstanding support, increasing the awareness of the law, and resolving conflicts through media.

More information about the 2009 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award, as well as nomination forms, can be found at http://www.FreedomAward.mil.

Related Sites:
National Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve
Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award
Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act

Gulf War Veterans’ Health Issues

DoD Works to Resolve Gulf War Veterans’ Health Issues

By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 26, 2008 – The Defense Department continues to work with the Department of Veterans Affairs to resolve veterans’ health issues, including maladies associated with the Gulf War, a senior DoD official said here today.

“We work very closely with the VA for those who’ve separated” from military service, Dr. Michael E. Kilpatrick, deputy director of health affairs for force health protection and readiness, told American Forces Press Service and Pentagon Channel reporters.

“We find that the No. 1 disability that veterans have is problems with muscles, bones and joints, ankles, knees and lower back,” Kilpatrick said. These types of ailments, he said, also surface as the top health issues cited by active-duty troops at sick call.

“So, there’s a relationship between service and those kinds of wear-and-tear joint problems,” Kilpatrick said.

Of the nearly 700,000 U.S. military members involved in the 1990-1991 Gulf War, Kilpatrick said, about 120,000 servicemembers returning from deployment in the Middle East reported a multitude of symptoms, including depression, tiredness, muscle and joint aches and pains, memory loss, headaches, and rashes. Servicemembers suffering from one or a combination of these maladies would later be said to have “Gulf War Illness.”

While 80 percent of those 120,000 veterans received a medical assessment and treatment for their ailments, about 24,000 veterans with Gulf War Illness-related symptoms remain undiagnosed, said Kilpatrick, a former Navy physician who commanded an Army/Navy infectious disease research unit during the Gulf War.

A congressionally-mandated report titled “Gulf War Illness and the Health of Gulf War Veterans” was released Nov. 17 and presented to Veterans Affairs Secretary Dr. James Peake. The 400-plus-page report says Gulf War Illness is a genuine medical condition. The report also notes that pyridostigmine bromide pills taken by some servicemembers in theater as a prophylactic against nerve agents and the use of pesticides to ward off desert insects are possible causes of Gulf War Illness.

Kilpatrick said he disagrees with the report’s findings regarding causes of Gulf War Illness, especially the alleged role played by anti-nerve agent pills and pesticides. Previous tests had determined that the pills were safe for consumption by servicemembers, he said, and there’s no medical evidence that pesticide use was responsible for Gulf War Illness-related maladies.

Other reports conducted on Gulf War Illness over the years, he noted, failed to substantiate its existence or couldn’t provide medical evidence of possible causes.

Unlike today, the U.S. military did not conduct pre-deployment medical screenings of servicemembers during the Gulf War, Kilpatrick said. He suggested that some individuals reporting Gulf War Illness-related symptoms may have had pre-existing medical conditions before they deployed to the Gulf.

“I think if you take a look at chronic fatigue syndrome, where people are extremely tired even after a good night’s sleep; they’re lethargic, they may have some short-term memory loss, some muscle pain in joints,” Kilpatrick said. “That’s part of that syndrome.”

Gulf War Illness isn’t a mystery, Kilpatrick said, but it is “something we don’t understand, and we need to do more work.”

Related Sites:
Gulf War Illness

Related Articles:
Get Evaluated, Says Gulf War Illnesses Chief
Sickness, Injury Took Toll of Gulf Troops

Nov. 26 airpower summary

Nov. 26 airpower summary

11/27/2008 - SOUTHWEST ASIA (AFNS) -- Coalition airpower integrated with coalition ground forces in Iraq and International Security Assistance Force troops in Afghanistan during operations Nov. 26, according to Combined Air and Space Operations Center officials here.

In Afghanistan, an Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II fired cannon rounds onto anti-Afghan forces who were firing rocket propelled grenades and mortars at coalition forces from behind a ridgeline in the vicinity of Nangalam. The mission was confirmed a success by the on-scene joint terminal attack controller. 

In the vicinity of Shurakian, a coalition aircraft fired rockets against enemy forces who were attacking coalition members from a hillside. The JTAC declared the mission was successful. 

Coalition aircraft conducted a show of force to deter enemy activities in the vicinity of Musa Qaleh. The mission was reported a success by the JTAC. 

In the vicinity of Bagram, an Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle performed a show of force and provided armed aerial overwatch to deter anti-Afghan forces from firing at coalition members who were conducting search operations. The JTAC confirmed the mission was successful. 

A Navy F/A-18E Super Hornet conducted a show of force to deter enemy fighters and provided armed aerial overwatch for a coalition convoy in the vicinity of Tarin Kowt. The mission was declared a success by the JTACs.

In total, 69 close-air-support missions were flown in support of the ISAF and Afghan security forces, reconstruction activities and route patrols. 

Fourteen Air Force intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft flew missions as part of operations in Afghanistan. Additionally, two Navy aircraft performed tactical reconnaissance. 

In Iraq, coalition aircraft flew 52 close-air-support missions for Operation Iraqi Freedom. These missions integrated and synchronized with coalition ground forces, protected key infrastructure, provided overwatch for reconstruction activities and helped to deter and disrupt hostile activities. 

Twenty- five Air Force and Navy ISR aircraft flew missions as part of operations in Iraq. Additionally, three Air Force and coalition aircraft performed tactical reconnaissance.

Air Force C-130 Hercules aircraft and C-17 Globemaster IIIs provided intra-theater heavy airlift, helping to sustain operations throughout Afghanistan, Iraq and the Horn of Africa. 

Approximately 130 airlift sorties were flown, more than 530 tons of cargo were delivered and nearly 2,400 passengers were transported. The airlift included approximately 57,000 pounds of troop re-supply that was air-dropped in Afghanistan.

Coalition C-130 crews flew as part of operations in Afghanistan or Iraq. 

On Nov. 25, Air Force and coalition aerial refueling crews flew 48 sorties and off-loaded approximately 3.4 million pounds of fuel to 278 receiving aircraft.

MTV visits Fairchild

MTV visits Fairchild

Airman 1st Class Tiffany Zaloudek receives instruction from Rich Browd, MTV director of the "How To Show," during the filming of an episode Nov. 17 at Fairchild Air Force Base, Wash. The episode, starring Airman Zaloudek, a survival, evasion, resistance and escape specialist with the 22nd Training Squadron, will demonstrate how to survive when you find yourself stranded and in need of being rescued. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Jocelyn A. Ford) Download HiRes

by Senior Airman Jocelyn A. Ford
92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs

11/26/2008 - FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. (AFNS) -- Five crew members from MTV came to Fairchild Air Force Base Nov. 17 for a firsthand glimpse of what the Air Force has to offer. 

MTV's "How to Show" has celebrities demonstrating how to do a variety of things through a step-by-step format, and the Air Force joined MTV to show how Airmen survive, evade, resist and escape behind enemy lines.

During the planning process, many different scenarios for the "How To Show" were discussed among officials from MTV, the Air Force Recruiting Service and GSD&M Idea City (a marketing company employed by the Air Force), as to what the Air Force could offer the show. 

"Ultimately, we all agreed that the Fairchild base had the most educated group of people who would be able to provide unparalleled guidance throughout the different scenarios and shoots," said Theresa Piszczor, an MTV Networks account executive.

Senior Airman David Janossy, a 22nd Training Squadron survival, evasion, resistance and escape specialist organized personnel, wrote scripts and worked the logistics.

"Showcasing our very unique skill sets of the 336th Training Squadron in combination with a new program produced by a cutting edge director like Rich Browd from MTV was an unbeatable opportunity," Airman Janossy said. "SERE gets to put its best foot forward to the public with help from world-class television professionals, and MTV gets an exciting program which educates their audience on some very useful outdoor emergency survival skills."

The MTV crew were escorted by SERE specialists to two locations to be used for filming over two days. Airman 1st Class Tiffany Zaloudek, a 22nd Training Squadron SERE specialist, explained and demonstrated how to survive when you find yourself stranded and in need of being rescued for the MTV cameras. She went through the steps starting with simply being prepared and staying calm. She showed how to build a fire and attract the attention of the rescuer were also covered in her step by step instructions on how to survive a land based emergency. 

"I understand they wanted to show a more diverse approach and having a female show survival techniques will hopefully give confidence to anyone, male or female, to be able to perform what we have shown," Airman Zaloudek said. "I worked with some of the nicest professionals from MTV and Air Force Recruiting. They made it fun and extremely easy for me. I got to see behind the scenes of how production is run and I give them mad props for all that they do, especially listening to me repeat the same line six times in a row. I hope they were able to take away new knowledge as I did from them."

On the final day of filming, one of MTV's own camera operators, Shawn Mattaro, attended the open water survival course required for all aircrews. Mr. Mattaro was required to take the course for the purpose of filming from inside the underwater egress training dunker.

Senior Airman Ethan Jago, a 66th Training Squadron SERE specialist, was chosen to narrate the water survival episode. This episode demonstrates the steps involved to egress from a submerged vehicle safely.

"I helped write the script for the water survival," Airman Jago said. "It was definitely an experience seeing how long it takes to film something as simple as a three minute show."

After two full days of filming, MTV left with a new and more personal perspective of the Air Force. 

"This was an incredible opportunity that exposed me to just a glimpse of the many skills learned in the Air Force," said Sheree Shu, an MTV producer. "As we will illustrate in the how-to spots, many of these skills are applicable to everyday life situations. It was an absolute pleasure working with all the individuals from the Air Force in making this happen and I look forward to working with them again."

It takes approximately four weeks from the time of filming to the time the two custom episodes featuring Fairchild AFB Airmen will launch on MTV.com and MTV mobile. Fairchild AFB episodes are scheduled to launch the week of Dec. 15. 

"After many years at MTV, I've never had the pleasure of directing such a cooperative and enthusiastic group of individuals," said Rich Browd, the MTV "How To Show" director. "This experience is one that we will not soon forget."

MTV visits Fairchild Air Force Base

MTV visits Fairchild Air Force Base

MTV visits Fairchild Air Force Base

Airman 1st Class Tiffany Zaloudek receives instruction from Rich Browd, MTV director of the "How To Show," during the filming of an episode Nov. 17 at Fairchild Air Force Base, Wash. The episode, starring Airman Zaloudek, a survival, evasion, resistance and escape specialist with the 22nd Training Squadron, will demonstrate how to survive when you find yourself stranded and in need of being rescued. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Jocelyn A. Ford)  Download Full Image | E-mail a friend

Jack Baribault, an MTV cameraman, leans over the water to talk to Shawn Mattaro (blue helmet), another MTV cameraman, as Mr. Mattaro awaits further instructions from a survival instructor (red helmet) during an open water survival lesson Nov. 18 at the aquatic center at Fairchild Air Force Base, Wash. Mr. Mattaro was required to take the open water survival instruction for the purpose of filming from inside the underwater egress training dunker as part of one of the episodes for the "How To Show" on MTV.com and MTV mobile. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Jocelyn A. Ford)  Download Full Image

MTV visits Fairchild Air Force Base

MTV visits Fairchild Air Force Base

MTV visits Fairchild Air Force Base

Airman 1st Class Tiffany Zaloudek receives instruction from Rich Browd, MTV director of the "How To Show," during the filming of an episode Nov. 17 at Fairchild Air Force Base, Wash. The episode, starring Airman Zaloudek, a survival, evasion, resistance and escape specialist with the 22nd Training Squadron, will demonstrate how to survive when you find yourself stranded and in need of being rescued. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Jocelyn A. Ford)  Download Full Image | E-mail a friend

Jack Baribault, an MTV cameraman, leans over the water to talk to Shawn Mattaro (blue helmet), another MTV cameraman, as Mr. Mattaro awaits further instructions from a survival instructor (red helmet) during an open water survival lesson Nov. 18 at the aquatic center at Fairchild Air Force Base, Wash. Mr. Mattaro was required to take the open water survival instruction for the purpose of filming from inside the underwater egress training dunker as part of one of the episodes for the "How To Show" on MTV.com and MTV mobile. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Jocelyn A. Ford)  Download Full Image | E-mail a friend

Senior Airman Ethan Jago listens to instructions from the MTV crew before filming begins Nov. 18 at the aquatic center at Fairchild Air Force Base, Wash. The MTV crew was at Fairchild to film several episodes for the "How To Show" seen on MTV.com and MTV mobile. Airman Jago, a survival, evasion, resistance and escape specialist with the 66th Training Squadron, was chosen to narrate for the episode demonstrating the steps involved in escaping from a submerged vehicle. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Jocelyn A. Ford)  Download Full Image

MTV visits Fairchild Air Force Base

MTV visits Fairchild Air Force Base

MTV visits Fairchild Air Force Base

Airman 1st Class Tiffany Zaloudek receives instruction from Rich Browd, MTV director of the "How To Show," during the filming of an episode Nov. 17 at Fairchild Air Force Base, Wash. The episode, starring Airman Zaloudek, a survival, evasion, resistance and escape specialist with the 22nd Training Squadron, will demonstrate how to survive when you find yourself stranded and in need of being rescued. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Jocelyn A. Ford)  Download Full Image | E-mail a friend

Jack Baribault, an MTV cameraman, leans over the water to talk to Shawn Mattaro (blue helmet), another MTV cameraman, as Mr. Mattaro awaits further instructions from a survival instructor (red helmet) during an open water survival lesson Nov. 18 at the aquatic center at Fairchild Air Force Base, Wash. Mr. Mattaro was required to take the open water survival instruction for the purpose of filming from inside the underwater egress training dunker as part of one of the episodes for the "How To Show" on MTV.com and MTV mobile. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Jocelyn A. Ford)  Download Full Image | E-mail a friend

Senior Airman Ethan Jago listens to instructions from the MTV crew before filming begins Nov. 18 at the aquatic center at Fairchild Air Force Base, Wash. The MTV crew was at Fairchild to film several episodes for the "How To Show" seen on MTV.com and MTV mobile. Airman Jago, a survival, evasion, resistance and escape specialist with the 66th Training Squadron, was chosen to narrate for the episode demonstrating the steps involved in escaping from a submerged vehicle. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Jocelyn A. Ford)  Download Full Image | E-mail a friend

An MTV film crew arrives at Fairchild Air Force Base, Wash., Nov. 17 to film an episode of the "How To Show" seen on MTV.com and MTV mobile. Fairchild was selected for two custom episodes involving land and water survival to be launched the week of Dec. 15. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Jocelyn A. Ford)  Download Full Image

Army science conference to focus on 'disruptive technology'

Army science conference to focus on 'disruptive technology'

Nov 25, 2008
BY C. Todd Lopez

Research that may one day help better train Soldiers, along with helping them heal both physically and psychologically, will be showcased at the 26th Army Science Conference Dec. 1-4 in Orlando, Fla. Photo by Randall Wingett

WASHINGTON (Army News Service, Nov. 25, 2008) -- Research that may one day help better train Soldiers, along with helping them heal both physically and psychologically, will be showcased at the 26th Army Science Conference Dec. 1-4 in Orlando, Fla.

Dr. John Parmentola, director for Army research and laboratory management, said this year the Army has chosen to focus the conference on what it believes will lead to "disruptive technology."

"At the Army Science Conference we are showcasing seven areas we believe will give rise to disruptive technologies for our Soldiers in the future," he said. "It is not just the individual areas themselves, but it is also the synergy that exists among these areas."

A disruptive technology radically changes the way things have been done in the past: the telephone over the telegraph, digital photography over film, desktop publishing over traditional publishing and the automobile and tuck over rail transportation.

One of the seven areas of research the Army will showcase at the conference is neuroscience. Parmentola said understanding how the brain works -- the primary focus of the study of neuroscience research -- is important because it leads to development of better training for Soldiers as well as better diagnosis of both traumatic brain injuries and post traumatic stress disorder.

"We are trying to utilize the capabilities of neuroscience through various types of brain scans to try to identify objective measures that will enable us to understand when a Soldier has suffered from PTSD or for example TBI," he said.

The Army is funding research that measures how the impact of a shock wave from something like an improvised explosive device might affect both a Soldier's skull and brain, Parmentola said.

At the Medical College of Georgia, work by Professor Joe Tsien, funded in part by the Army, is looking at how the brain stores memories.

"(Tsien) and his colleagues developed a technique where they were able to go into the hippocampus of a mouse and actually study a particular region that stores episodic memories," Parmentola said.

The team created for the mouse a series of traumatic events, including a simulated close-call with a "bird of prey," and was later able to "erase" the memories from the mouse's memory.

"If somebody was put through an extremely traumatic situation where this was reoccurring and causing this person to not be able to function properly -- it's always a possibility of trying to help people deal with these memories through a mechanism like this," Parmentola said, "This kind of research is helping us understand how the brain works."

Parmentola also said neuroscience research leads to better training for Soldiers.

"The Army trains 500,000 Soldiers every year and there is a significant diversity of learning abilities among those 500,000 human beings," said Parmentola. "What we are after is to develop better ways of training them so they can all be trained up to certain skill levels."

Other Army-funded research aimed at improving Soldier training involves immersive technology, Parmentola said.

"That's about creating virtual worlds that are essentially indistinguishable from reality," he said. "One of the key challenges we have in that area is to create virtual humans. Of course the work of neuroscience plays a key role in trying to create virtual humans that, for all intents and purposes, act and interact just like humans."

Researchers at the Institute for Creative Technologies, a research institute of the University of Southern California, work to develop virtual worlds that are indistinguishable from reality, Parmentola said.

Parmentola said ICT collaborates with the gaming industry in California and with Hollywood to create realistic virtual scenarios that can better help Soldiers train.

Those virtual worlds don't just help Soldiers to be prepared to fight better when they get to the battlefront, they can also make it easier for Soldiers to recover from the psychological scars they might suffer while fighting there.

"We have been using virtual environments -- pioneered out at the ICT -- to try to see if there are ways, through using training environments, to essentially heal or suppress the episodic memories that Soldiers have when they undergo PTSD," Parmentola said.

He explained that researchers found that Soldiers who have suffered from PTSD can be helped by repeated and controlled exposure to environments similar to what they saw in theater.

"We are finding is that by putting Soldiers that have suffered PTSD through similar experiences that occurred when they acquired the disorder -- virtual environments where we create explosions and things like that -- we found that a repetitive type of therapy winds up suppressing these episodic memories," Parmentola said.

The Army also funds research that may seem like science fiction, but is in fact science reality. Researchers participating in a collaboration between Wake Forest University, N.C., and the University of Pittsburgh are just some of the scientists doing work now on regenerative tissue research -- the growing of new tissue, even entire body parts, for use in both animals and humans.

"The really exciting area we have been perusing is trying to re-grow organs and hopefully with time, actual limbs," Parmentola said. "We've re-grown bladders, for example. We've repaired the uterine walls of women who have had uterine damage. It sounds like far-out stuff, but it is stuff that is happening."

The Army Science Conference will focus on seven areas of research, including neuroscience, autonomous systems, biotechnology, immersive technology, nanotechnology, network science, and quantum information science.

President Hails Passage of New U.S.-Iraq Security Pact

Here is the link for those of you wishing to read the complete Status of Forces Agreement.  Please note, this link is also found at the end of this article under Related Links.   MsMarti

 

President Hails Passage of New U.S.-Iraq Security Pact

By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 28, 2008 –

President George W. Bush and other senior U.S. officials hailed the new U.S.-Iraq security pact that was approved by Iraqi lawmakers in Baghdad yesterday.

 

The two-part security pact consists of a strategic framework agreement that establishes the foundation of a long-term bilateral relationship between the United States and Iraq, as well as a status-of-forces agreement that stipulates how U.S. forces are affected by Iraqi laws.

 

A majority vote of Iraqi legislators in attendance approved the new security agreement. The passage of the pact "affirms the growth of Iraq's democracy" as well as its "increasing ability to secure itself," Bush said in White House statement issued yesterday.

 

"Two years ago, this day seemed unlikely - but the success of the surge and the courage of the Iraqi people set the conditions for these two agreements to be negotiated and approved by the Iraqi parliament," Bush continued in the statement. "The improved conditions on the ground and the parliamentary approval of these two agreements serve as a testament to the Iraqi, Coalition, and American men and women, both military and civilian, who paved the way for this day."

 

Both agreements take effect Jan. 1, 2009. They replace a UN mandate authorizing the U.S. military presence in Iraq that's slated to expire Dec. 31, 2008. The new security pact is slated for review and final approval by Iraq's Presidency Council, Bush said.

 

"As the two agreements move to Iraq's Presidency Council for final approval," Bush said in the statement, "we congratulate the members of the Council of Representatives for coming together to approve these historic agreements that will serve the shared and enduring interests of both our countries and the region."

 

The strategic framework agreement establishes principles of U.S.-Iraqi cooperation in the realms of politics, defense, diplomacy, security, culture, economics, energy, health and environment, law enforcement and judiciary functions, and information technology and communications.

 

The 30-article status-of-forces agreement, known by the acronym, SOFA, acknowledges that the U.S. troop presence in Iraq is temporary and at the request of the sovereign Iraqi government. Article 24 of the SOFA requires U.S. forces to withdraw from all Iraqi territory no later than Dec. 31, 2011. U.S. combat forces in Iraq also are required to withdraw from Iraqi cities, villages and localities no later than June 30, 2009.

 

The U.S.-Iraq SOFA agreement also stipulates that U.S. forces may not search Iraqi homes or other real estate properties without an Iraqi-government-issued search warrant, except during the case of combat operations.

 

The two security agreements "formalize a strong and equal partnership between the United States and Iraq," U.S. Ambassador to Iraq Ryan C. Crocker and Army Gen. Raymond T. Odierno, commander of Multinational Force Iraq, said in joint news release issued yesterday.

 

The pact also provides "the means to secure the significant security gains we have achieved together and to deter future aggression," Crocker and Odierno continued. "They establish a framework for cooperation in the fields of defense, political relations, economics, trade, culture, education, the rule of law, health, the environment and science and technology."

 

Crocker and Odierno congratulated the Iraqi government and its elected representatives "for making these agreements possible," according to the joint release.

 

 

Biographies:
Ryan C. Crocker
Army Gen. Raymond T. Odierno

 

 

Related Sites:
Statement by President Bush
Crocker/Odierno Joint Statement
Strategic Framework Agreement
Status of Forces Agreement

 

War In Afghanistan Daily News - November 28, 2008

Coalition Provides Medical Aid to Afghan Woman, Baby

American Forces Press Service

KABUL, Afghanistan, Nov. 28, 2008 – An Afghan woman and her seven-month-old son, who were severely injured by militants during an operation in Kapisa, Nov. 20, were released from a Coalition forces hospital in Bagram this week.

The woman and child, whom Coalition forces believe lived with the militants, were injured when one of the militants detonated a hand grenade inside the compound. Coalition forces provided medical care on the scene, however; their injuries were so severe, that forces evacuated them to a military hospital in Bagram for further treatment.

The woman and child both sustained head trauma and fragmentation injuries from the grenade blast. Coalition forces' doctors provided medical care to both, nursing them back to health.

"These militants continue to show a blatant disregard for the lives of Afghan citizens," said Col. Jerry O'Hara, a Coalition spokesperson. "This woman and her child are another example of the indiscriminate pain these militants bring to the Afghan people."

Coalition forces, following cultural sensitivity protocol, arranged for the woman's brother and mother to join her and her son on the military base, staying with them throughout their care.

Coalition forces responded with small-arms fire killing four armed militants. A search of the compound revealed multiple AK-47s, hand grenades and other military style equipment, which were destroyed by force to prevent future use. The operation resulted in three suspected militants being detained.  

"These militants continue to put innocent civilians in harm's way by hiding amongst them and using them as human shields," said O'Hara. "Afghan and Coalition forces remain committed to removing those networks that threaten the sovereign Islamic Republic of Afghanistan."

(Compiled from U.S. Forces Afghanistan news releases)

News From NATO

NATO Secretary General visits Afghanistan

27 Nov. - NATO Secretary General, Jaap de Hoop Scheffer, paid a brief visit to Afghanistan on 26 and 27 November 2008. During his visit, the Secretary General met with President Karzai and Lieutenant General Jim Dutton, Deputy Commander ISAF, in order to receive an update on the current political and military situation in Afghanistan.

News From Bagram Air Base

House Armed Services Committee delegation visits Camp Eggers

KABUL, Afghanistan -- Servicemembers at Camp Eggers shared breakfast with several members of the House Armed Services Committee, or HASC, delegation during their visit on Thanksgiving Day to Combined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan, or CSTC-A, headquarters.

Coalition forces, Afghan civilians involved in traffic accident in Kabul

from U.S. Forces Afghanistan

11/28/2008 - KABUL, Afghanistan -- A Coalition forces vehicle and a van carrying Afghan civilians were involved in a traffic accident here Friday at about 11:15 a.m. on Highway 1.

Both vehicles were traveling east when the van attempted to move in to the left lane of traffic and struck the side of the Coalition vehicle. Coalition forces were unable to swerve to avoid the van because of a median separating the east-bound and west-bound lanes of traffic. After the collision, the van skidded off the side of the highway and struck a roadside shop.

The incident is under investigation, and Coalition forces have reported it to the Afghan National Police.

"We regret this incident and express our condolences to the families and people involved," said Col. Jerry O'Hara, U.S. Forces Afghanistan spokesman.




Camp Eggers celebrates Thanksgiving with carnival

by Petty Officer 1st Class Cliff Williams
CSTC-A Public Affairs

11/27/2008 - KABUL, Afghanistan -- Servicemembers at Camp Eggers marked Thanksgiving Day 2008 with good food, games and laughter, as Combined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan celebrated with a winter carnival.
With a joint military command of more than 1,000 personnel away from home during the holidays, morale, welfare and recreation personnel sought to make the holiday memorable.

"Thanksgiving back home for me is always a huge gathering, so being away from home during the holidays is hard," said Petty Officer 3rd Class Odell Hudson. "But today has been fun. It took away the thought of being away from home for the holidays."

Camp Eggers personnel participated in various competitions, including darts; football and softball throws; and pie- and hot dog-eating competitions. Prizes were offered, and camel rides were also available around base.

CSTC-A provides advisors, mentors and trainers to help the Ministry of Defense and Ministry of Interior with organizing, training, equipping and supporting Afghan National Security Forces in order to defeat the insurgency; provide internal security; extend and enforce the rule of law; set conditions for economic development; and gain the trust and confidence of the citizens of Afghanistan.




ISAF FORCES BRING NEW HOPE TO YOUNG AFGHAN GIRL

Nov. 5, 9-year-old Toor Pekai, and her grandfather Malik Khan, rest after a trip from Kandahar Air Field. A team of surgeons at KAF worked six hours to remove a large tumor from Toor Pekai’s face. The tumor had impacted her ability to speak and eat. Download HiRes

from Zabul Provincial Reconstruction Team

11/27/2008 - QALAT, Afghanistan  -- Recently, a team of International Security Assistance Force medical personnel came together to save the life of a nine-year-old Afghan child. 

Toor Pekai has lived with a benign tumor on her face for nearly five years. Benign or not, the tumor grew to impact her speech and ability to eat solid foods. 

Jordanian Lt. Col. (Dr.) Mamoun Al-Basheer and the team of doctors worked tirelessly through a six-hour operation to remove a significant portion of the tumor. Al-Basheer is the director of Eagle 27, the Jordanian medical mission to Afghanistan based in Zabul.
He learned about Toor Pekai the second week in October from U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. (Dr.) Mark Hubner, the senior medical advisor on the Zabul Provincial Reconstruction Team. Al-Basheer had been in country for one week. 

"I accompanied her from (Forward Operating Base) Lagman here and took her to (Kandahar Air Field) where I, a British surgeon and his assistant formed a team that operated on Toor Pekai," he said. "We restored, hopefully, the functional elements in her face where she has jaw occlusion and she can eat and drink again." 

The surgical team took six hours to remove the tumor on Toor Pekai's face. The growth was an unusual type of tumor called fibrous dysplasia. These tumors tend to be benign and slow growing according to Al-Basheer. 

"Although benign in nature, slow progressing tumors not treated can grow to obstruct eating and breathing," he said. "So, yes, this could have killed her. I couldn't be happier for Toor Pekai. She's a cheerful, lovely girl. There is nothing more satisfying to a physician than doing something that impacts a patient's life to a great degree. It's not just prolonging her life as a little girl; it's giving her a new opportunity with an improved quality of life." 

The Zabul PRT had to weigh the options before deciding on surgery for Toor Pekai.
"It is an ethical dilemma," said Hubner. "Does one spend $1 million on a single case that is dramatic and pulls at our heart strings while at the same time hundreds of children are dying of diarrhea or starvation? Diarrhea is not dramatic. Yet that mother mourns the loss of her child just as much the mother of the 'dramatic' situation. 

"In this case, we struggled with what would be the best balance," he added. "Just because we could not do everything does not mean we should not do anything. Previous cases around Afghanistan show that taking a single patient and sending him back to the U.S., Europe or Canada for dramatic surgery rarely works out for the best -- There is often not follow up capability in rural areas. 

"We were very happy to learn that there were resources as close as KAF to help this girl," said Hubner. "This was multi-national and multi-organizational cooperation at its best. And as a bonus, when she needs future surgery in a few years, the (Afghan National Army) Ear, Nose and Throat surgeon will be able to do it."

Coalition forces provide humanitarian assistance to Afghan people

Coalition forces provide humanitarian assistance to Afghan people

Coalition forces provide humanitarian assistance to Afghan people

Paktia province, Afghanistan -- Afghan children received toothpaste and toothbrushes after being examined by Coalition medics during a Medical Civic Action Program in Dand Patan district Nov. 19. Coalition medics treated more than 200 people during the event. (Photo by Army Sgt. Lynne Eickstedt)   Download Full Image

Coalition forces provide humanitarian assistance to Afghan people

Coalition forces provide humanitarian assistance to Afghan people

Paktia province, Afghanistan -- Afghan children received toothpaste and toothbrushes after being examined by Coalition medics during a Medical Civic Action Program in Dand Patan district Nov. 19. Coalition medics treated more than 200 people during the event. (Photo by Army Sgt. Lynne Eickstedt)   Download Full Image | E-mail a friend

Paktia province, Afghanistan -- As part of a Veterinary Civic Action Program, or VETCAP, a Coalition forces veterinarian does a checkup on a cow. The VETCAP Nov. 20 in the village of Chamkani offered free examinations of livestock, deworming treatments, vitamin supplements and advice on how to care for animals. Coalition medics also treated minor ailments of the local villagers and offered them medical advice. (Photo by Army Sgt. Lynne Eickstedt)   Download Full Image

PO3 Joshua Chiarini, USN, Silver Star, Iraq, Coventry, RI

 

Joshua Chiarini

The Story:

As enemy forces ambushed the front of his convoy, and with explosions going off on the road ahead of him, Navy Hospital Corpsman Joshua Chiarini could have remained in his vehicle and waited for the action to pass. Instead, the petty officer bolted from his truck and joined the battle. His ensuing gallantry resulted in a Silver Star and the recovery of several wounded Marines from the line of fire, saving their lives.

Many of Chiarini’s missions took place in Al Anbar province, a hotbed of violence in early 2006. The morning of February 10 started out like so many others – with a patrol for Chiarini, a combat medic spending his third tour of duty with the 1st Platoon, 2nd Marine Division. It soon became clear the day would be anything but routine. A roadside bomb hit the front Humvee in the convoy. The vehicle sped out of the kill zone and its occupants escaped and took up defensive positions against the attacking force. A second blast detonated in the area where the four Marines and one interpreter stood, which was followed by heavy small-arms fire in their direction, causing injuries. Chiarini’s Humvee, the third in the convoy, remained far behind the damaged truck and Marines. Clouds of smoke and nonexistent radio communications blocked the pinned down Marines from the rest of the convoy. Realizing his comrades lay in harm’s way, Chiarini jumped out of the truck and sprinted 100 meters to tend to the injured men, dodging insurgent fire the entire way.

One by one, Chiarini helped guide each person to safety. Chiarini led the interpreter, who had a mangled arm, to a secure Humvee. He guided the M-16 fire of a blinded Marine toward the insurgents. Chiarini then made three separate trips from the Humvee to the battlefield to treat and retrieve each of the wounded, all while braving a high volume of incoming rounds and laying down cover fire. For much of the time, Chiarini applied aid to the wounded with one arm, while providing suppressive fire with the other. After moving the team to safety, Chiarini stayed on the battlefield and unleashed M-16 fire at the enemy forces. He continued the fight as reinforcements arrived, eliminating several insurgents.

This was not the only mission that placed Chiarini in harm’s way. His team was repeatedly fired on by snipers. 30 of the convoys he rode in were struck by roadside bombs and three suicide bombers. The constant danger makes it all the more impressive that of the 100 Marines treated by Chiarini, none lost his or her life.

On October 22, 2007, Chiarini received the Silver Star medal in the Rhode Island statehouse. He presently serves at Naval Health Clinic New England in Newport, RI.

Hometown: Coventry, RI

Awarded: Silver Star

External Links:

• Navy Times story
• http://www.defenselink.mil/heroes/profiles/chiariniJ.html
• Providence Journal story

Interviews:

• Nov 07, 2007 (8.8MB)
  CBC

Sailor risks life, epitomizes heroism

Sailor risks life, epitomizes heroism 

11/25/2008  By Cpl. Aaron Rooks  , 2nd Marine Logistics Group 

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. (Nov. 25, 2008) — 

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. (Nov. 25, 2008) —An Iraqi reporter from Al Jazeera met his worst nightmare and possibly his best friend when he was caught in the crossfire while covering combat operations, April 4.

The journalist, whose name wasn’t available, was reporting on the actions of the First Iraqi Army Division when he was struck by incoming small arms fire, leaving him severely injured and unconscious in full view of more enemy fire.

• 

  MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. (Nov. 25, 2008)-Petty Officer 2nd Class Ryan P. Faulhaber stands among Iraqi children, April 8, in the city of Basra, Iraq. Faulhaber, a hospital corpsman from Minnesota, served in Iraq with Military Transition Team 111 of 1st Battalion, 1st Brigade, 1st Iraqi Army Division, from March 29 - April 28. , courtesy photo, 4/19/2008 8:38 PM

Iraqi Army medics were hesitant to provide assistance to the reporter due to his insecure position.  This was not the case for Petty Officer 2nd Class Ryan P. Faulhaber, a hospital corpsman serving with Military Transition Team 111 of 1st Battalion, 1st Brigade, 1st Iraqi Army Division.  Despite the high rate of continuous enemy fire, Faulhaber made his way to the casualty and proceeded to provide medical aid.

“The other Iraqis in the area did brave things during our time with them, but on that particular occasion, none of the Iraqis were willing to assist the wounded reporter,” said Maj. Mark Slusher, who served as Faulhaber’s team leader in Iraq.  “Faulhaber did not hesitate for a moment.  There is no better example to set for courage under fire than him.”

Enemy insurgents noticed the Faribault, Minnesota native’s lonely effort and began to increase their rate of fire in an attempt to take him down.  Faulhaber ignored the personal risk and continued to calmly provide treatment as rounds impacted the terrain around him.  He quickly stabilized the reporter and slowly made his way back to the casualty collection point with the journalist in tow.  Iraqi translators later informed Faulhaber that the reporter lived.

The transition team participated in all four of the major insurgency clearing operations that comprised the Basra campaign for the following three weeks.  During this time, the Iraqi battalion suffered 25 casualties, and the MTT suffered five.  Chief Warrant Officer 3 Ian Anthony, the administrative advisor for the MTT, said that Faulhaber was personally responsible for providing life care to more than 15 of the casualties, in addition to supervising the Iraqi medics’ care of the remaining casualties.

“His prompt and effective medical treatment saved the lives of at least five of the more seriously wounded Iraqi soldiers,” Anthony said.

This wasn’t the last instance of heroism that Faulhaber would exhibit during his service with the Iraqis.  Elements of the MTT were exiting the Basra city limits April 24 after conducting a combat patrol when one of the team’s vehicles was attacked by an explosively formed penetrator, which is an improvised explosive device commonly used to penetrate armor at stand-off distances.  The device destroyed the vehicles and wounded all five members inside.

Faulhaber was one of the first service members to reach the burning vehicle.  The fire quickly began to ignite the ammunition inside, producing a toxic smoke.  He ignored this and the incoming enemy fire and proceeded to help remove casualties from the vehicle.

“We had five casualties, which was 30 percent of our operation force strength,” said Slusher, a native of Lebanon, New Jersey.  “Same thing again, courage under fire, total disregard for his own safety, vehicle’s on fire, yet doc is totally focused on providing care to our wounded comrades.”

Anthony said two of the vehicle’s occupants were critically wounded.  He said Faulhaber’s actions were credited with saving both Marines’ lives.

Faulhaber returned from Iraq in August and now serves as the assistant leading petty officer for the operations section of 2nd Medical Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group.  He was awarded a Bronze Star Medal with a combat distinguishing device, Nov. 19, for his actions in Iraq.  He said there is now talk that he may receive a combat meritorious promotion to the rank of petty officer first class.  Regardless of the outcome, Faulhaber remains modest and unregretful about his actions.

"Faulhaber had a big impact on the Iraqis," Slusher said.  "During our time with them, we saw a significant change in their skills and professionalism.  That really goes to the heart about being a good advisor.  The Iraqi medics are now better trained and more able to care for the Iraqi soldiers, and frankly, many of them are alive today because of Faulhaber."

War In Iraq News Daily - November 28, 2008

Commanding General Spends Thanksgiving with Ramadi Troops

Friday, 28 November 2008

Army Gen. Ray Odierno, Multi-National Force - Iraq commanding general, visits with troops on Thanksgiving Day at Camp Ramadi, Nov. 27, 2008. Photo by Lance Cpl. Jerry Murphy, Regimental Combat Team 1.

CAMP RAMADI — Army Gen. Ray Odierno, the commanding general of Multi-National Force – Iraq, spent his Thanksgiving visiting troops at Camp Ramadi and other locations throughout Iraq, Nov. 27.

During his visit to Camp Ramadi, Odierno greeted Marines of 2nd Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 1, and later ate Thanksgiving lunch with Marines from the regiment and Soldiers with Task Force Ramadi.

Odierno thanked the Marines and Soldiers for their service and said he is proud to be serving with them during this demanding time.

“I just want to say that I am proud to be able to serve with you, especially on days like this,” Odierno said to Marines at the 2nd Bn., 9th Marines’ headquarters. “Many people all over the United States are thankful for a lot of things but I’ll tell you one thing, they’re thankful for you and the job you do.”

Sgt. John F. Newhouse, a 36-year-old maintenance chief from Pittsburg with Headquarters and Support Company, 2nd Bn., 9th Marines, commented on what it meant to him and his Marines that Odierno took time to visit on the special day.

“He just stopped by to see how we were doing and it’s great that out of all the places he could have stopped on Ramadi, he came here to our shop. It’s really a great morale boost for the Marines,” Newhouse said.

Odierno left the Marines with some advice before departing for the camp’s dining facility.

“It’s a different world in Iraq now than it was 18 months or even a year ago,” Odierno said. “What you need to do now is stay focused on what you’re doing, take care of your battle buddies, maintain standards and don’t get complacent.”

Odierno also made stops in Baghdad, at Forward Operating Base Iskan and at Contingency Operating Base Speicher.

(By Lance Cpl. Jerry Murphy, Regimental Combat Team 1)

Gas Station, Media Center Open in Business Industrial Zone

BAGHDAD — The Iraqi ARAM Media Print Facility and the Brothers Fuel Station opened in the Iraqi Business Industrial Zone at Victory Base Complex, Nov. 24. These two businesses are the result of Iraqi business men and women who have a desire to develop the Iraqi economic infrastructure.

 

Renovations, Improvements in Sadr City Brighten Hopes

BAGHDAD — More than $55 million in both U.S. and Iraqi funds have been pumped into Sadr City to improve the quality of life for residents there since the end of major combat operations this past spring. In a combined effort between both Iraqi and American forces, the people of Sadr City have benefited from renovated and re-opened schools, new parks, improved medical facilities, more consistent electricity and better trash removal services.

Leaders Discuss New Change for Sons of Iraq in Diyala

FOB GABE — Coalition force leaders Brig. Gen. James Boozer, Brig. Gen. James Nixon and Col. Burt Thompson, along with Iraqi Army Diyala Operations Commander Staff Lt. Gen. Abdul Kareem Khalaf and the 5th Iraqi Army Division Deputy Commander Brig. Gen. Bayaz Ahmed Ramaden, conducted a rehearsal and meeting to discuss the future of the Sons of Iraq here in Diyala, Nov. 26.

 

Interactive Iraq :: Video News

Iraqi Freedom Minute, Nov. 26

•This edition features a story on Coalition forces training the Iraqi military on security operations.

Watch Now

Freedom Journal Iraq, Nov. 26

•This edition features stories on the opening of the Abu Ghraib Center where tribal and religious leaders can meet to conduct business and Coalition forces training the Iraqi military on security operations. Watch Now

Thursday, 27 November 2008	Statement by Ambassador Ryan C. Crocker and General Ray Odierno
Thursday, 27 November 2008	IA, NP, MND-B Soldiers seize weapons, munitions throughout Baghdad
Thursday, 27 November 2008	NPs seize weapons, MND-B Soldiers detain bombers

 

Pool Boy

 

Thursday, 27 November 2008	Leaders discuss new change for Sons of Iraq in Diyala
Thursday, 27 November 2008	Forces target leadership, bombing cells: 1 terrorist killed, 10 detained (Baghdad)

 

Medical Transport

 

Thursday, 27 November 2008	Coalition forces detain Katai’b Hezbollah suspects (Sadr City)
Thursday, 27 November 2008	Sustainers advise, train Iraqi Soldiers at Al-Kasik

 

Building for the Future

 

Thursday, 27 November 2008	Local village project improves roadways (Mosul)
Thursday, 27 November 2008	Warriors bid farewell to Macedonian Army partners (Camp Taji)

 

A Feast Awaits

 

Thursday, 27 November 2008	Rutbah SWAT arrests suspected AQI leader, 5 cell members in western Iraq
Thursday, 27 November 2008	PRT, ISF spread smiles to Iraqi children (Maysan province)
Thursday, 27 November 2008	ERB graduates complete arduous training, join elite police force (Baghdad)

 

Southern Partnership Station Begins Aboard Swift

 081122-N-9995B-001 Morgan City, La. (Nov. 22, 2008) The Military Sealift Command's High Speed Vessel Swift (HSV) 2 prepares to deploy in support of Southern Partnership Station, a five month mission to Central America, South America and the Caribbean Basin. Swift has embarked Combined Task Group 40.9, comprised of Navy, Marine Corps and Naval Criminal Investigative Service training teams and translators. These teams will provide instruction to partner nations in various topics including port security, small boat maintenance, combat lifesaving and enlisted leadership. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Daniel Ball/Released)

Southern Partnership Station Begins Aboard Swift

By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Daniel Ball, Southern Partnership Station Public Affairs

MORGAN CITY, La. (NNS) -- Military Sealift Command-chartered high speed vessel HSV-2 Swift (HSV 2) along with various embarked Navy, Marine Corps and Air Force units departed Louisiana Nov. 25 for a five-month deployment in support of Southern Partnership Station (SPS).

Southern Partnership Station is an annual deployment of various specialty platforms to the U.S. Southern Command area of focus in the Caribbean and Latin America. The mission's primary goal is information sharing with navies, coast guards and civilian services throughout the region.

"Southern Partnership Station provides an excellent opportunity to facilitate cooperation, interaction and communication between regional partners' civil and maritime services," said Rear Adm. Joseph D. Kernan, Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command and U.S. 4th Fleet. "Working together alongside our partner nations, sharing knowledge and experiences through joint, multinational and interagency exchanges will help to build strong relationships, improve interoperability and enhance regional maritime security."

Military training teams and subject matter experts embarked on Swift will provide partner nations with classroom and hands-on training in a variety of subjects.

"SPS provides us an opportunity to work with our friends, build partnerships and train together," said Cmdr. Christopher K. Barnes, SPS mission commander.

The ship is scheduled to visit El Salvador, Panama, Nicaragua, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Barbados and Colombia.

The mission is coordinated through U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command/U.S. Fourth Fleet (NAVSO/ 4th Fleet) with partner nations to meet their specific training requests. Swift embarked elements of the Navy Expeditionary Training Command from Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek, Va., Marine Corps Training and Advisory Group from Fort Story, Va., and Naval Criminal Investigative Service Security Training Assistance and Assessment Team.

Members of the Navy Expeditionary Training Command will provide instruction in small boat operations, maintenance and repair, boarding techniques, armed sentry, search and rescue, combat lifesaving, leadership principles for junior and senior partner nation enlisted service members, and instructor training.

The Marine Corps Training and Advisory Group will advise partner nation servicemembers on a variety of different topics including marksmanship, martial arts, and non-lethal weapons tactics.

Naval Criminal Investigative Service Security Training and Assessment Team will provide port security instruction and advice.

Information systems technicians will help install and instruct partner nation servicemembers on the use of Integrated Automatic Identification Systems (IAIS). IAIS is a computer based vessel identification program that provides ports and other ships with real-time location and information on friendly vessels within their region.

"This is a great system, I really like the way it works," said Information Systems Technician 2nd Class German Rodriguez, IAIS instructor. "I'm excited to interact with our friends and show them the great things this system can do."

As the Naval Component Command of SOUTHCOM, NAVSO's mission is to direct U.S. Naval Forces operating in the Caribbean, Central and South American regions and interact with partner nation navies within the maritime environment. Various operations include counter-illicit trafficking, Theater Security Cooperation, Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief, military-to-military interaction and bilateral and multinational training.

Fourth Fleet is the numbered fleet assigned to NAVSO, exercising operational control of assigned forces in the SOUTHCOM area of focus.

Swift is under long-term charter to the U.S. Navy's Military Sealift Command. A crew of civilian mariners working for a private company under charter to MSC operate and navigate the ship.

For more information on U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command / U.S. Fourth Fleet, go to http://www.cusns.navy.mil.


For more news from Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command, visit www.navy.mil/local/cusns/.

What I am thankful for

What I am thankful for

Commentary by Col. Dave Blanks
455th Expeditionary Maintenance Group commander

11/28/2008 - BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan -- As we begin another holiday season, like many of you, I'm going to miss being with my family. But I have to tell you, short of spending the season with them, there is no other group I'd rather spend Thanksgiving and the holidays with than you - the members of our deployed Air Force family.

This time of year, I make a special effort to reflect on the things I'm thankful for, and thought I'd share those with you all.

First, I'm thankful and proud to be serving in a nation not afraid to stand up to terrorism and tyranny - or anything which threatens the freedom we treasure. And as a result, also give the good people of Afghanistan a chance to know peace and freedom, something many have not experienced in their lifetime.

I'm thankful for the strength of our families - parents, children, spouses - many of whom are doing double duty and more at home. They're often overlooked as they bear the burden of being both mothers and fathers in the absence of one parent, while holding down jobs and doing whatever it takes to keep things going at home while we're here taking care of our nation's business.

And, I'm very thankful to be from a nation where the vast majority of the people recognize and appreciate the contribution and sacrifices made by military members and their families. We don't have to look back very far in our nation's history to find a very different situation.

Finally, I'm thankful for the dedication and professionalism of the young men and women we're deployed with here at Bagram. They amaze me every day, as they make the mission happen, no matter the circumstances. I met one such Airman on the flight line in Sept. during one of his first nights deployed. Despite the fact he told me he was 'okay', I could tell something was wrong. Seems he had his wisdom teeth removed shortly before he left home to clear himself to be able to deploy, and there were some painful complications afterwards. He could have used this as a viable reason not to deploy. Instead, he chose not to mention it to anyone for fear they would take him off of the deployment. That kind of dedication is inspirational, and I know there are countless similar examples across the base.

I signed up 23 years ago to serve, but it's 'the people' who are the reason I'm still around. I believe messages from two stories based on real events capture the thought very well. Lt. Col. Hal Moore near the end of "We Were Soldiers" says, "In the end, we fought for each other." And, a similar message is heard in some of the final words spoken at the end of "Black Hawk Down" when the Delta soldier explains why he does what he does; "It's about the man next to you, that's all that it is."

So, although I'll miss my family, I'm extremely thankful this season to have a meaningful profession that brings with it the opportunity to work beside the finest men and women our nation has to offer. In closing, I'd ask you to do two things. First, take a few moments to reflect on the things you're thankful for. And, commit to making this season special for those around you...whether it's with a smile, a handshake, a kind word, or a special deed.

Leaders discuss new change for Sons of Iraq in Diyala

Leaders discuss new change for Sons of Iraq in Diyala

Wednesday, 26 November 2008

Multi-National Corps – Iraq

Public Affairs Office, Camp Victory

APO AE 09342

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE For approval

RELEASE No. 20081126-20

Nov. 26, 2008

 

Leaders discuss new change for Sons of Iraq in Diyala

Multi-National Division – North PAO

 

FORWARD OPERATING BASE GABE, Iraq – Coalition force leaders Brig. Gen. James Boozer, Brig. Gen. James Nixon and Col. Burt Thompson, along with Iraqi Army Diyala Operations Commander Staff Lt. Gen. Abdul Kareem Khalaf and the 5th Iraqi Army Division Deputy Commander Brig. Gen. Bayaz Ahmed Ramaden, conducted a rehearsal and meeting to discuss the future of the Sons of Iraq at Forward Operating Base Gabe in Diyala, Iraq, Nov. 26.

      

The main focus of the meeting was to ensure the smooth transition of the SoI program with new leadership. Currently the SoI program is managed by Coalition forces; but with the new plan, the Government of Iraq will soon assume responsibility for this program.

     

Backing the new plan, Khalaf said, “We must ensure we get the right people for the job.”

     

In order to implement a smooth transition, Coalition forces and Iraqi Forces have implemented a plan to register each member of the SoI. CF will provide teams for securing the registration sites, said Capt. Johnny Sutton, assistant operations officer for 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division.

     

“We’re going to conduct registration in the upcoming month of December and continue registration for the SoI every day except for Fridays,” said Sutton. “We have constructed a plan over a period of time now and starting next month we will implement it.”

 

 

-30-

 

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT THE MULTI-NATIONAL DIVISION – NORTH PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICE AT:  [email protected] This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it OR DSN 318-856-0218

 

FOR THIS PRESS RELEASE AND OTHERS, VISIT HTTP://WWW.BRAGG.ARMY.MIL/MNCI/DEFAULT.HTM

 

FOR HIGH RESOLUTION PHOTOS, PLEASE CONTACT THE DIGITAL VIDEO AND IMAGERY DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM BY CALLING 678-421-6612 OR ACCESS THEM ON-LINE AT WWW.DVIDSHUB.NET <FILE://WWW.DVIDSHUB.NET>. 

Passage by the Council of Representatives of the Strategic Framework Agreement and the Security Agreement

Statement by Ambassador Ryan C. Crocker and General Ray Odierno

Thursday, 27 November 2008

U.S. EMBASSY – BAGHDAD

News Release

For Immediate Release                                                    November 27, 2008

2008/85                                                                    Phone:  +964-770-443-0048                                                                        [email protected] This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it  

Joint Statement

Statement by Ambassador Ryan C. Crocker and General Ray Odierno

Passage by the Council of Representatives of the Strategic Framework Agreement and the Security Agreement

BAGHDAD - The United States welcomes today’s approval by Iraq’s Council of Representatives of the Strategic Framework Agreement and the Security Agreement.   We look forward to the ratification of this vote by Iraq’s Presidency Council. 

Taken together, these two agreements formalize a strong and equal partnership between the United States and Iraq.  They provide the means to secure the significant security gains we have achieved together and to deter future aggression.  They establish a framework for cooperation in the fields of defense, political relations, economics, trade, culture, education, the rule of law, health, the environment and science and technology. 

We congratulate the Government of Iraq and its elected representatives for making these agreements possible.

Thanksgiving Messages

I would like to take this moment to thank our military,
our veterans who have placed their lives on the line for us,
so that I and my family may live in peace and safety.

For every man and woman who stands between us and the wolves,
I give thanks for you!

I hope your Thanksgiving has been a safe and quiet one!

MsMarti

Bush Praises Troops for War Efforts

President George W. Bush kicked off his last Thanksgiving week as commander in chief by thanking the soldiers of Fort Campbell, Ky., for the key role they’ve played in the war on terror and telling them they’re what he’ll miss most.  Story | Photos | Video

• Transcript: President's Remarks

Giving Thanks

SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, South Carolina -- During our nation's Civil War, the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln issued the first official Thanksgiving proclamation in 1863 as a day of thanksgiving and praise.

Airmen give thanks, continue mission

1st Lt. Nick Biggs, a C-130 Hercules copilot, enjoys a Thanksgiving dinner Nov. 27 at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan. A contracting company providing catering services to deployed coalition forces put extra effort into providing the time-honored feast to American servicemembers at Bagram. Lieutenant Biggs is from Peoria, Ill., and is thankful for his family and friends supporting him during his deployment. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Samuel Morse)
More Photos

Gates Expresses Gratitude to Troops

Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates expressed his gratitude to the nation’s troops and their families in his annual Thanksgiving Day message. Story | Video

• Transcript: Gates' Message to Troops

Center Provides Thanksgiving Meals to Troops

U.S. troops serving in the Middle East will dine on a traditional Thanksgiving meal, thanks to the efforts of Defense Supply Center Philadelphia employees. Story

Chairman Gives Thanks to Troops

WASHINGTON, Nov. 24, 2008 – In his 2008 Thanksgiving Day message released today, Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, noted the wartime similarities between today and the proclamation of the national holiday 140 years ago.

Here is the text of Mullen’s message:

Citing the many blessings bestowed upon the United States, these timeless words were delivered by Abraham Lincoln in his 1863 proclamation establishing Thanksgiving Day as a national holiday:

2008 THANKSGIVING SAFETY MESSAGE 

Date Signed: 11/20/2008 
ALMAR  Number: 050/08 

R 191849Z Nov 08
UNCLASSIFIED//
ALMAR 050/08
MSGID/GENADMIN/CMC WASHINGTON DC SD//
SUBJ/2008 THANKSGIVING SAFETY MESSAGE//
POC/JAMES D. GRACE/COL/DIRECTOR SAFETY DIVISION/-/TEL:(703)614-2147//
GENTEXT/REMARKS/1. OUR NATION BEGINS THIS THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY JUST AFTER AMERICANS EXERCISED ONE OF THEIR FUNDAMENTAL AND MOST CHERISHED RIGHTS:  THE RIGHT TO CHOOSE OUR ELECTED REPRESENTATIVES.  More....

Thanksgiving Message from General William E. Ward, Commander of U.S. Africa Command

Nov 27, 2008 · AFRICOM Public Affairs

USAFRICOM Team, Thanksgiving Day is a unique holiday that brings together all Americans, regardless of our many faiths and cultural backgrounds. Traditionally, we gather with family and friends to reflect on the year past, and give thanks for the blessings and freedoms we enjoy as Americans. It is...  (Full Story)

USS Theodore Roosevelt Hosts General Petraeus on Thanksgiving

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Bonnie Williams, USS Theodore Roosevelt Public Affairs

USS THEODORE ROOSEVELT, At Sea (NNS) -- USS Theodore Roosevelt (TR) (CVN 71) hosted Army Gen. David H. Petraeus, commander, U.S. Central Command, Nov. 27-28 to celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday with the crew.

Petraeus, along with Commander 5th Fleet, Vice Adm. William E. Gortney, visited the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier, currently deployed to the 5th Fleet area of responsibility.

ISAF soldiers at Camp Stone celebrate Thanksgiving

Deployed U.S. Army, Air Force and Navy service members, as well as U.S. civilians and international military members, share an American Thanksgiving meal at Camp Stone near Herat, Afghanistan, Nov. 27. (.Jpg/293kb)

KABUL, Afghanistan — U.S. service members, contractors, civilians and international military guests celebrated Thanksgiving at Camp Stone in western Afghanistan Nov. 27.

As the dining facility opened its doors, a long line of people had already formed in anticipation of the Thanksgiving meal prepared inside. Upon entering, guests were welcomed by base commanders and leaders carving the turkeys and serving side dishes.

Preparing for Thanksgiving Day food service competition

Soldiers make decorations for no holds barred food service competition between Hawaii Army...More

 

386th Airmen clear hazards, keep locals safe

386th Airmen clear hazards, keep locals safe

Staff Sgt. David Barrett (rear) and Staff Sgt. Brenden McAvey, 386th Expeditionary Civil Engineering Explosive Ordnance Disposal Flight members, work to set up a detonation site outside the wire at an air base in Southwest Asia. Airmen in the 386th EOD flight have safely cleared almost 1,000 unexploded ordinance devices during their six-month deployment here. (U.S. Air Force photo/Capt. Suzanne VanderWeyst) Download HiRes

by Capt. Suzanne VanderWeyst
386th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs

11/26/2008 - SOUTHWEST ASIA (AFNS) -- Beyond the wire of the 386th Air Expeditionary Wing spans an area covered not only in sand but potential explosive hazards, aging from as far back as the Gulf War fighting that took place here in the early 90s. 

This time of year, the same area is inhabited by host-nation locals who follow a tradition of setting up camps, often with their families and livestock, during the winter months.

Airmen of the 386th Expeditionary Civil Engineer Squadron Explosive Ordnance Disposal Flight are clearing the way for these local campers to enjoy the area in safety. 

Working closely with the 386th Security Forces Squadron Viper teams, who patrol the expansive perimeter areas night and day and find hazards such as unexploded ordnance devices, or UXOs, 386th EOD flight members have safely destroyed almost 1,000 UXOs during their six-month rotation here.

The number of found UXOs has gone up significantly. Changes in Viper teams and the rapport they have built with EOD Airmen, as well as shifting weather conditions that help to uncover buried UXOs, have all contributed in the rise.

"There has been a good increase in the number of response calls since the last EOD rotation," said Tech. Sgt. Pete McNally, 386th EOD craftsman deployed from Tyndall Air Force Base, Fla. "Most rotations do about 300 to 400 (UXO clearings), and we are up almost three times that between June and today."

In response to Viper teams finding a concentrated number of UXOs within certain perimeter areas, EOD members set up two major outside-the-wire sweeps in October with the Royal Australian Army EOD members and Viper teams. They were able to clear six million square meters of land surrounding the base, finding sub-munitions identified as being out in the terrain for awhile.

"That is not a common act," said Master Sgt. Stephen Davis, 386th EOD flight chief. "But the fact that we were finding so much stuff in that area, we thought it was beneficial. There are a lot of (herders) in that area too, and this is the time of year that they move in.

"Our requirement is to make sure nothing is out there that is harmful to the locals and to our (base) populace," said Sergeant Davis, a native of Fort Walton Beach, Fla. "There's nobody's life here that is less important than that item out there."

To do what they can to fulfill that requirement, Sergeants Davis and McNally have offered localized UXO detection training not only to their EOD flight Airmen, but to security forces personnel as well. In September, they gave Viper teams a UXO class on what to look for and how to handle the situation when an item of interest is found. Since then, EOD members have seen an increase in the number of UXO responses outside the base.

"A lot of (the training) they get at home station is on new items, and we're showing them how (ordnance) looks after 20 years of sitting in this environment," said Sergeant McNally. "(Training) that they get back at home station is very general. What we're giving them is what it looks like here."

The UXO recognition training, combined with what Viper team flight chief Tech. Sgt. Raymond Marsh describes as "young Airmen with good eyes," has paid off.

During a recent night patrol, when Airmen claim darkness is so thick that one could miss a mountain if not careful, one Viper member, Airman 1st Class Michael Middleton, spotted a UXO before the truck his team was in nearly ran it over. He followed training procedures and EOD Airmen were able to respond and destroy it.

Responding quickly to a call is something the EOD flight members take seriously. They've cut the 30-minute response time from the last rotation down to 15 minutes or less out the door.

"We're usually ready to go once we get approval, 24/7, 365 days a year ... we'll respond, whatever the circumstances are," said Sergeant Davis.

Other than drawing down call-response time, the EOD flight has worked to improve its relationship with security forces personnel. As a benefit to the Viper teams' hard work in detecting UXOs, one of EOD's current standard operation procedures is to allow Viper team members an opportunity to "push the button" for the UXO clearing detonation once EOD gets them set up and in a safe position.

"The EOD group we have here and our rapport with them is phenomenal," said Sergeant Marsh. "They go out of their way to help us out. It's not like back home. You couldn't ask for a better bunch of people that work EOD."

Both Sergeant Davis and Sergeant McNally said they wouldn't want to do anything else in the Air Force than work in EOD, even after almost 20 years of service. And it shows. Sergeant Davis will be re-enlisting in the Air Force soon and continue to clear hazards such as the hundreds of UXOs his team has cleared while deployed here.

"Our business is the protection of personnel and property; that's what we do," said Sergeant McNally. "We protect the people so that they don't die ... it's the best job in the Air Force.

"I've been doing [explosive ordnance disposal] for almost 18 years now, and when I still wake up after 18 years and cannot wait to get to my job, you know (I've) got a good job."

Company Provides ‘Joe’ for Deploying Louisiana Soldiers

Company Provides ‘Joe’ For Deploying Guardsmen

By Army Sgt. Rebekah L. Malone
Special to American Forces Press Service

PINEVILLE, La., Nov. 26, 2008 – When soldiers from Louisiana National Guard headquarters and Headquarters Company, 225th Engineer Brigade, received their mobilization orders, thoughts of what they would be leaving behind for the next year ran across their minds.

Army Spc. Ryan Custis of Pineville, La., and Army Spc. Curtis Nordby of Dry Prong, La., members of the Louisiana National Guard’s 225th Engineer Brigade in Pineville, La., latch the tailgate on a Humvee containing nearly $3,500 worth of donated Community Coffee. Army photo by Sgt. Rebekah L. Malone   (Click photo for screen-resolution image);high-resolution image available.

But thanks to one local company, the familiar aroma of a local morning brew will be going with them. Community Coffee has volunteered to donate the local favorite to Louisiana's deploying soldiers, and this is not the first time.

Army Master Sgt. Danny A. Riggs, a resident of Carville, La., deployed with the 205th Engineer Battalion in 2003. “Community Coffee donated to the 205th when we deployed to Afghanistan,” he said. “I was excited to hear that they were willing to provide us coffee this time around as well."

During a deployment, with many of the comforts of home left behind, Riggs said, it is imperative to try and have a part of home wherever the soldier is located to help with morale.

“It was nice to have a local coffee this good and not to have to worry our families with coffee requests to mail it over," he said.

Community Coffee prepared a pallet of more than 650 canisters of coffee ready for the engineers to pick up from a warehouse in Baton Rouge. The coffee will be packed in containers and shipped to Iraq when the 225th deploys after Thanksgiving.

The donation of nearly $3,500 worth of coffee is estimated to make 28,000 eight-ounce cups of coffee.

The military-friendly business also sends comfort to Louisiana’s troops by sponsoring a promotion to match coffee purchased for soldiers called "Military Match."

The idea came about when the corporation heard that the No. 1 item requested by Louisiana troops overseas is Community Coffee and the No. 1 miscellaneous item requested is a microwavable coffee mug.

“If somebody buys a Military Match gift box, they are buying 4 pounds of coffee. We will then match an additional 4 pounds free,” said Scott Raposo, consumer direct marketing manager for Community Coffee. “This is just something we feel honored [to do]. We want to demonstrate our support for the troops that are serving our country and protecting our freedoms.

“It’s a good thing for us to do,” he continued. “We hope it brings somebody a little comfort to have some normalcy in their day having their Community Coffee [while deployed].”

(Army Sgt. Rebekah L. Malone serves in the Louisiana National Guard with the 225th Engineer Brigade.)

Related Sites:
Louisiana National Guard

Community Coffee employees pose with soldiers from the Louisiana National Guard’s Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 225th Engineer Brigade of Pineville, La. The soldiers will depart in December on a year-long deployment, but not without their Community Coffee, thanks to a donation of nearly 28,000 cups of coffee by the Louisiana business. U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Rebekah L. Malone   Download screen-resolution    Download high-resolution

Grief Management during the Holidays

DEALING WITH GRIEF OVER THE HOLIDAYS: PRACTICAL TIPS TO HELP
National Organization Comforting Families of the Fallen Offers Advice to Help All Who Are Grieving

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                   November 25, 2008

WASHINGTON – Holiday cheer and merrymaking may be everywhere this time of year, but for thousands of Americans grieving the loss of a loved one, the holiday season can be an emotional minefield. And there’s no roadmap for easy navigation.

“The holiday season can be particularly challenging for families who are grieving the recent loss of a loved one,” said Bonnie Carroll, the founder and chairman of the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors, TAPS. “We offer tips to help surviving military families, and they are applicable to anyone who is grieving.”

For more than a decade, TAPS has helped surviving families of those who have died in military service. Carroll and TAPS offer the following tips to help anyone who is grieving during the holiday season:

Take charge of your holiday season. Anticipating the holiday, especially if it’s the first one without a cherished family member, can be worse than the actual holiday. Taking charge of your holiday plans, and mapping out how you will spend that time, can help relieve anxiety. 

Make plans. Plan to spend the holidays where you feel nurtured, emotionally safe, and comfortable. An escape plan may be difficult to carry out, because American holidays are celebrated in many places world-wide, and there often is no way to escape all of the reminders of the holidays.

Find sustenance for the soul. Your church, synagogue, mosque, or other faith community may offer services, resources, and support networks to help. You may want to look for a support group for people who are grieving and have suffered a similar loss. Families who have lost a loved one serving in the military may find comfort by connecting with other survivors through our online community, online peer support groups, or care groups.

Don’t be afraid to change your holiday traditions. Some traditions may be a comfort, while others might cause pain. Consider which traditions to keep, and which ones to forego this year. Do not feel like you have to do something because you have always done it that way.

Include your lost loved one in gift-giving. Consider making a donation to a charity in memory of your loved one. Give a gift on behalf of your loved one to someone else.

Create a tribute. Light a candle, display a favorite photograph, or set a place at the dinner table to represent the missing loved one. Consider writing a letter to your loved one about the holidays and your special memories with that person.

Be gentle with yourself. Realize that familiar traditions, sights, smells, and even tastes, may be comforting, or may jolt your emotions. This is the time of year when you need to be careful with your emotions and listen to yourself.

Attend holiday functions if you can. Consider attending holiday parties and events, especially if you’ll be able to spend time with supportive family members and friends. Make an escape plan in case the event is more than you can handle, and trust your hosts to understand if you need to slip out. If you think a holiday gathering might be more than you can handle, it is ok to stay home.

Don’t pretend you haven’t experienced a loss. Imagining that nothing has happened does not make the pain of losing a loved one go away, nor does it make the holidays easier to endure. Even though holiday memories may be painful, they can also be comforting. It is ok to talk with others about what you have lost, and what the holidays mean to you.

Pay attention to your health. It’s often difficult for people who have experienced a recent loss to sleep. Make sure you get regular rest and drink lots of water. Do not over-indulge in sweets or alcohol. If you feel overwhelmed, talk with your medical care provider.

Take stock of both joy and sadness. Give yourself permission to feel joy as well as sadness. Don’t feel like you have to “be a certain way” because of your loss. Just be yourself.

Express your feelings. Bottling up your feelings may add to distress, not lessen it. To express your feelings, use your creativity to write a poem, talk with a supportive friend, create a painting, or pen a journal entry.

Share your holiday season with someone else. There are many lonely people who might like to experience the holiday season with someone else. Consider volunteering with a local charity or soup kitchen, inviting a neighbor for a special holiday meal, or including others in your holiday activities.

For more tips on dealing with grief during the holidays, go to the TAPS website at www.taps.org.

TAPS is the national organization providing compassionate care for the families of America’s fallen military heroes. TAPS provides peer-based emotional support, grief and trauma resources, seminars for adults, Good Grief Camps for children, case work assistance, and 24/7 crisis intervention care for all who have been affected by the death of a loved one serving in the Armed Forces. Services are provided free of charge. For more information go to www.taps.org or call the toll-free crisis line at 800.959.TAPS.

Media Contact
Ami Neiberger-Miller, Public Affairs Officer, office 202.588.8277, [email protected]

This release is available online at: http://www.taps.org/release.aspx?id=1880

Maj. William Chesarek Jr., British DFC, USMC, Iraq, Newport, RI

 

William Chesarek Jr.

The Story:

For the troops serving in Iraq or Afghanistan, interacting with forces from other nations is a workaday event, even in heavy combat situations. It’s not as common, however, for foreign governments to bestow awards on Americans – except for extraordinary bravery, such as that displayed by Maj. Chesarek on June 10, 2006.

On that day, Chesarek and his crew were preparing to support approximately 100 British marines on a weapons-cache search in the city of Amarah, Iraq. Chesarek, a seasoned pilot, was no stranger to the Brits: He had served as an exchange officer with U.K. forces in Somerset, England, and deployed with his British comrades to Basra.

As the group completed its mission in Amarah, one of its vehicles on the ground became disabled. Chesarek, listening to radio transmissions, heard the dispatches grow desperate as the immobilized vehicle was swarmed by armed insurgents. Chesarek flew into the fight, but as his flight team began searching for insurgents to fire at from above, they noticed numerous civilians in the vicinity, making it almost impossible for the helicopter to safely attack. Chesarek made a daring choice: he dove into the gun battle, flying as low as possible to draw the enemy’s attention away from the troops on the ground. The tactic worked – even as it endangered Chesarek’s helicopter.

As the battle continued, a British marine was shot in the head and fell in the middle of the firefight. Ignoring imminent danger, Chesarek landed his helicopter in the crossfire and evacuated the injured marine.

For his life-saving actions, Chesarek was awarded the British Distinguished Flying Cross on March 21, 2007 – the first time an American serviceman has received the award since World War II.

• Hometown: Newport, RI
• Awarded: British Distinguished Flying Cross
• External Links:
  • Marine Corps story
  • Stars and Stripes story
  • http://www.defenselink.mil/heroes/profiles/chesarekW.html

War In Afghanistan Daily News - November 27, 2008

ANSF, Coalition forces disrupt militant activities in Helmand

Written by Headquarters United States Forces Afghanistan

Thursday, 27 November 2008

KABUL, Afghanistan – Afghan National Security Forces and Coalition forces killed seven militants today and uncovered three caches containing drugs and improvised explosive device-making materials during a clearing operation in Nahr Surkh District, Helmand province. Militants fired on ANSF and Coalition forces with machine-gun and rocket-propelled grenade fire.  ANSF and Coalition forces responded with small-arms and supporting fires, killing seven. ANSF and Coalition forces searched the area and found a cache of bombing-making materials that included control wire, metal and homemade explosives; a cache of 12 mortar rounds; and a cache of 175 pounds of opium, which was destroyed. During the operation, the combined forces protected more than 300 local villagers from enemy fire.  No ANSF, Coalition forces or civilian casualties have been reported. “The bottom line is that joint operations like this save innocent Afghan lives as well as increase the capabilities of Afghan National Security Forces,” said Col. Jerry O’Hara, U.S. Forces Afghanistan spokesman.

Coalition forces clear a known IED command node in Kandahar

Written by Headquarters United States Forces Afghanistan

Thursday, 27 November 2008

KABUL, Afghanistan – Coalition forces killed 15 militants, and detained six suspected militants during an early morning raid in Anizai, Zhari district, Kandahar province, Nov. 26. Coalition forces were clearing a compound known to be an IED command and control node when they were fired upon. Coalition forces returned fire with small arms weapons killing 15 insurgents and detained six. “We will continue to support the Afghan people by seeking and disrupting militant networks,” said Col. Jerry O’Hara, U.S. Forces Afghanistan spokesperson.  No Coalition forces or civilian casualties were reported.

Coalition forces keep the heat on terrorist networks

Written by Headquarters United States Forces Afghanistan

Wednesday, 26 November 2008

KABUL, Afghanistan – Coalition forces killed ten armed militants, and detained four suspected militants during operations to thwart the Taliban and Haqqani terrorist networks in Paktia and Paktika provinces, Tuesday. The operation in Paktia province targeted a senior Taliban commander in the Zormat district – believed to act as a liaison between the al-Qaeda and Taliban terrorist networks, assisting with the movement of foreign fighters into Afghanistan. During the operation Coalition forces were engaged by small-arms fire from multiple militants, some of whom where barricaded inside the compound. Coalition forces returned fire to protect the force and other innocent civilians in the vicinity. Five armed militants were killed during the operation. In Sabori district, Coalition forces killed five armed militants and detained four suspected militants in an operation that targeted a Haqqani sub-commander. The targeted militant is responsible for planning and conducting attacks against Coalition forces in the region. Intelligence suggests this militant also facilitates the movement of weapons and supplies used by terrorist to conduct attacks against innocent civilians, GIRoA and Coalition forces. As the force approached the targeted compound they received small-arms fire from two armed militants attempting to maneuver on the force. Coalition forces returned fire, killing both. The force then received small-arms fire from militants inside the compound. Adhering to Coalition procedures, designed to protect innocent civilians inside the building, the force called for all individuals to exit the building and surrender. Eight women and eleven children exited the building unharmed and were moved to a safe location. Continuing to receive fire from inside the building, the force engaged the militants with small-arms fire killing three additional militants. A search of the building revealed multiple weapons. “We continue to disrupt terrorist networks, stemming the flow of weapons and supplies that are used against innocent Afghan civilians,” said Col. Jerry O’Hara, spokesperson for U.S. Forces Afghanistan.

UN Security Council, UNAMA representatives visit RC-West

27 Nov. - Ambassadors and representatives from the United Nations Security Council and the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan visited ISAF’s Regional Command-West Nov. 26.

 

ANA, ISAF complete three operations in Kandahar

27 Nov. - The Afghan National Army and ISAF units have successfully completed three operations in Kandahar districts of Zharey, Panjwayi and Maywand.

ANP, ANA achieve success in Kandahar operation

27 Nov. -The Afghan National Police and Afghan National Army, supported by ISAF, marked a significant step forward in a joint operation Nov. 24.

 

What the Taliban's media campaign fails to mention...

Afghanistan Photostory: The Taliban's media offensive is as notable for what they don't show as what they do. This photostory gives a few examples.

NATO Review -
Afghanistan (part 1) : the Issues

ISAF soldier killed in southern Afghanistan

27 Nov. - An ISAF soldier was killed in southern Afghanistan Nov. 27 when a patrol struck an IED.

War In Iraq News Daily - November 27, 2008

Warriors Bid Farewell to Macedonian Army Partners

Thursday, 27 November 2008

CAMP TAJI — After eleven rotations since the beginning months of Operation Iraqi Freedom, the Macedonian Soldiers are ending their part of the Coalition forces mission here.

The end-of-mission ceremony was “bittersweet” for Coalition forces, as this longtime partner was closing a chapter on its partnership in Iraq.

“Around 450 troops have passed through this mission, and a lot of experience has been brought to the republic of Macedonia and the Soldiers of Macedonia,” said Col. Krume Velkov, director of the general staff of the armed forces for the Republic of Macedonia. “This is certainly a very significant chapter of our history.”

In the past five years, the Macedonian Soldiers have fought side by side with the Coalition and have experienced the progress in Iraq.

“The Coalition has been very fortunate to have the dedicated support of nations like the Republic of Macedonia. They have stood with the Coalition and with the Iraqi Security Forces over the past few years,” said Marine Maj. Gen. Paul Lefebvre, deputy commanding general, Multi-National Corps – Iraq. “Because of your efforts over the past five years, the security condition for thousands of Iraqi citizens has greatly improved.”

The Macedonian-Coalition partnerships grew and provided teamwork that furthered every aspect of the mission in northwest Baghdad.

“We are witnesses of the outstanding achievements of the Macedonian platoons and close this chapter on our partnership here in Iraq,” said Col. Todd McCaffrey, commander, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Multi-National Division – Baghdad. “The partnership of Soldiers like the outstanding Macedonians will be sorely missed.”

The Macedonian force consists of two platoons: an infantry security platoon and a ranger platoon.

Most recently, the infantry platoon provided security, controlling entry points into Combined Operating Base Taji while partnered with 2nd Battalion, 11th Field Artillery Regiment. They manned gates and entry points that screened more than 4,000 persons and several thousand vehicles.

“The Macedonian platoon was an invaluable asset to our mission. They performed superbly and were truly a combat multiplier,” said Lt. Col. Joseph Gleichenhaus, commander 2nd Bn., 11th FA Regt. “More importantly, our partnership allowed their Soldiers to learn firsthand how to work with Coalition forces. They gained knowledge of another culture and country and built friendships that will last a lifetime.

”Our Soldiers have a better understanding of what it means to carry the flag of their home country on their shoulder and will always strive to represent the United States Army as well as their Macedonian brothers represented theirs.”

The Macedonian Rangers spent their tour with the 1st Battalion, 14th Infantry Regiment “Golden Dragons”, 2nd SBCT, 25th Inf. Div.

“While partnered with the Macedonian Ranger platoons, they were absolutely spectacular,” said Maj. Todd Woodruff, executive officer, 1st Bn. 14th Inf. Regt. “Our partnership could not have been closer. Golden Dragon Soldiers and the Macedonian Soldiers have lived together, fought together and improved security over the Tarmiyah area.”

The Macedonian accomplishments are far reaching, beyond the time spent with the Coalition forces.

“They can go home knowing the (Iraqi) people have security and a great future. The people of Tarmiyah owe much of their security to the Macedonian Rangers.  We will greatly miss them and their relationship as partners,” said Woodruff.

CF and Macedonian leaders exchanged gifts, smiles and handshakes during the ceremony.

(By Maj. Al Hing, Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO)

Feature Stories

Reconstruction Teams Work One Block at a Time in Iraq

FOB WAR EAGLE — Reconstruction in Iraq means more than fixing broken walls and stocking store shelves. It means securing a future where Iraqis can sustain themselves, a provincial reconstruction team leader said. “The mission is to help bring a sustainable, democratic government, promote moderate [leaders] and encourage economic development in Baghdad,” said Ted Andrews, team leader for Provincial Reconstruction Team 3 in Baghdad, which is embedded with the 4th Infantry Division’s 3rd Brigade Combat Team, Multi-National Division - Baghdad.

 

U.S. Soldiers Help to Refurbish Pool

BAGHDAD — In many American communities, the neighborhood pool is a place to meet up with friends and have some fun while trying to beat the hot summer days. In the spirit of summer, though a little after the season, the citizens of the Ameriyah neighborhood of northwest Baghdad received a welcome gift when they reopened the Ameriyah pool, Nov. 22.

 

Monsoon Season Comes to Iraq

CAMP TAJI — For the past several weeks, Camp Taji and the surrounding area have experienced several flash floods due to sudden, intense rain showers. The weather seemed to change overnight from hot, sunny days to conditions requiring a jacket and possibly an umbrella. Streets that previously needed water trucks to soak the road to keep the dust down flooded, and drivers were barely able to see the road due to standing water.

Interactive Iraq :: Video News
Iraqi Freedom Minute, Nov. 25 •This edition features stories on bringing tourism back to the city of Karbala. Watch Now

.
Freedom Journal Iraq, Nov. 25 •This edition features stories on bringing tourism back to the city of Karbala with the help of a PRT and meeting with the National Investment Commission to talk about how to secure the area. Watch Now

Wednesday, 26 November 2008	18 Females from Suicide Vest Cell turn themselves in
Wednesday, 26 November 2008	Mass Grave Found In Diyala
Wednesday, 26 November 2008	Leaders discuss new change for Sons of Iraq in Diyala
Wednesday, 26 November 2008	DPM visits Salah ad Din
Wednesday, 26 November 2008	News school offers hope to Nablus children

Soldiers

Wednesday, 26 November 2008	Gas station, media center open in business zone
Wednesday, 26 November 2008	IA, MND-N Soldiers improve prison facility
Wednesday, 26 November 2008	Video Available: Macedonian troops commemorate end of mission in Iraq
Wednesday, 26 November 2008	Video Available: Native American Month Interview with Lt. Col. Clyde
Wednesday, 26 November 2008	MND-B, IA Soldiers seize weapons, munitions in Baghdad

Tunis Tots

Wednesday, 26 November 2008	MND-B Soldiers detain bomb cell operator
Wednesday, 26 November 2008	MND-B Soldiers seize cache northwest of Baghdad
Wednesday, 26 November 2008	Local citizen, Sons of Iraq help take weapons off the streets
Wednesday, 26 November 2008	NPs discover mortar cache in Rashid
Wednesday, 26 November 2008	Six detained during joint operations in Mosul

Best Friends

Wednesday, 26 November 2008	MND-N Soldiers visit projects in progress in Tamim province
Wednesday, 26 November 2008	IEDs wound civilians, ISF personnel in eastern Baghdad attacks
Wednesday, 26 November 2008	MND-B Soldiers reopen pool, enrich neighborhood
Wednesday, 26 November 2008	IA Scouts capture suspected SG leader in central Iraq
Wednesday, 26 November 2008	Forces target AQI bombing, leadership networks; 18 suspects in custody

BAGHDAD – Coalition forces further degraded al-Qaeda in Iraq on Tuesday and Wednesday, detaining 18 suspects during operations targeting the terrorist group’s bombing and leadership networks.

Coalition forces operation Tuesday in Qayarrah, about 60 km south of Mosul, captured one wanted man believed to be an AQI operative.  Reports suggest the man was actively involved in planning a car bomb attack in Sharqat at the time of his capture.  One additional suspect was detained for further questioning.

Forces continued to target AQI bombing networks Wednesday.  Two alleged Bayji-based improvised explosive device facilitators were captured near Hadithah, about 211 km northwest of Baghdad.  One of the wanted men surrendered himself to Coalition forces during the operation.  Four additional suspects were also detained.

Another operation Wednesday in Baghdad netted two suspects believed to be associated with an AQI car bomb and IED operative in the city.

A wanted man assessed to be a Diyala AQI administrative operative and explosives facilitator was captured Wednesday in Tuz Khurmatu, about 70 km southeast of Kirkuk.  The suspected terrorist, who reports suggest has connections to al-Qaeda operatives outside of Iraq, was detained with another man assessed to be his associate.

Coalition forces partnered with Iraqi forces during a Tuesday operation targeting AQI military leaders near Hawijah, 60 km southwest of Kirkuk.  The forces captured one suspected terrorist believed to have connections to a Tamim AQI leader.  One additional man was detained for further questioning.

Four suspects were detained by forces Wednesday near Ad Dawr, 136 km north of Baghdad, during an operation targeting a Sumarra-area terrorist cell leader.

Go Team!

Wednesday, 26 November 2008	Iraqi Navy holds 3rd annual Iraqi Navy Planning Day to refine input to Navy Service Plan (Umm Qasr)
Wednesday, 26 November 2008	MND-B Soldiers detain 3, confiscate weapons
Wednesday, 26 November 2008	Iraqi Army helps local community (Mosul)
Wednesday, 26 November 2008	IED attack in Rusafa wounds four civilians (Baghdad)
Wednesday, 26 November 2008	First-Ever Senior Non-Commissioned Officer Course Complete (Taji)
Wednesday, 26 November 2008	Coast Guard training marines at Umm Qasr

 

DOD Identifies Army Casualty

 

 The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

 

 Master Sgt. Anthony Davis, 43, of

Deerfield

,

Fla.

, died Nov. 24 in

Baaj

,

Iraq

, after being shot by an Iraqi Security Force soldier while he was conducting a dismounted humanitarian food drop.  He was assigned to the Military Transition Team, 1st Brigade, 1st Infantry Division,

Fort Riley

,

Kansas

.

 

 The circumstances surrounding the incident are under investigation.

 

For more information media may contact the

Fort

Riley

public affairs office at (785) 239-3410.