War On Terror News

Air Force civilian earns award for plasma research

Air Force civilian earns award for plasma research

by Maria Callier
Air Force Office of Scientific Research

11/26/2008 - ARLINGTON, Va. (AFNS) -- The Plasma Science and Applications Committee of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers selected an Air Force Office of Scientific Research program manager for the 2009 Plasma Science and Applications award.

The committee chose Dr. Robert Barker for his "outstanding contributions to the field of plasma science in research or new applications."

The Air Force is interested in research supported by Dr. Barker in the area of cold air plasmas in which air molecules are broken down into ions and electrons. The resulting nonburning cold air plasma is very efficient at absorbing or bending microwave signals.

Dr. Barker has been a trailblazer for more than two decades in plasma physics with his research oversight in the areas of ionized gas, pulsed power, high-power microwave sources, ion and electron beams and electron emission processes.

"A significant aspect of my job here is to help focus the attention and energies of the university research community onto particularly exciting new areas of exploration that hold exceptional promise for meeting Air Force requirements," Dr. Barker said.

The plasmas are also effective in killing bacteria, viruses and spores on skin and other surfaces.

"By managing AFOSR research programs in these areas, I came to realize the efficiency enhancement offered by pulsing the sustaining electric fields for air plasmas on nanosecond timescales," Dr. Barker said. "By encouraging research on these plasmas, I was instrumental in launching significant international efforts on this promising new area."

Dr. Barker will accept the award at the next Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers conference on plasma science. The event is scheduled to take place in June 2009 in San Diego.

Maryland Guard Takes Part in U.S. Africa Command Exercise

Maryland Guard Takes Part in U.S. Africa Command Exercise

By Rick Breitenfeldt
Maryland National Guard Public Affairs 

BALTIMORE, Maryland - Maryland National Guard Staff Sergeant Deshanna Taylor, a medic with the state medical detachment, treats an infected foot November 20, 2008 in Senegal during Flintlock, a 14-nation training exercise in support of U.S. Africa Command. Maryland National Guard doctors, nurses, dentists, pharmacists, and other medical professionals participated in the exercise and helped Senegalese residents receive desperately needed medical care. (Photo courtesy of the Maryland National Guard)

BALTIMORE, Maryland, Nov 26, 2008 — For the first time since U.S. Africa Command stood up on October 1, the National Guard sent service members to Africa to provide desperately needed medical care.
Maryland National Guard doctors, dentists and other medical professionals spent two weeks in Senegal in support of a 14-nation exercise called Exercise Flintlock, which concluded November 20, 2008.

The Maryland Guard medical team based at Camp Fretterd in Reisterstown, Md., was led by Colonel John V. Gladden, state surgeon, who said this type of training mission is exactly what the Guard needs to be doing.

"It teaches us how to do things outside our specialty, how to work together," said Gladden about his team, who treated nearly 1,600 Senegalese patients.
Gladden, who has worked in eight previous medical exercises in his career, said the working and living conditions in Africa were the most austere he had ever seen, but his fellow teammates were professionals under the toughest of circumstances.
"Nobody got flustered," said Gladden. "We knew there were limitations on what we could do to treat some of these patients, but nobody dwelled on this being a less-than-perfect outcome."

The two-week exercise was developed as a joint multinational exercise to improve information sharing at the operational and tactical levels across the Saharan region while fostering increased collaboration and coordination.

"This was a perfect fit," said Sergeant 1st Class Kenneth McGill, the operations sergeant for the Maryland Guard medical detachment who organized the training mission.
"We had the professional talent, and they had everything we needed to do the job," said McGill.

"Having an opportunity like this, even in the civilian world, is rare."
More than 200 people participated in Flintlock, as part of U.S. Africa Command's Operation Enduring Freedom-Trans Sahara, which provides military support to State Department programs that, together, aim to enhance regional security in Africa.

Although this was a first-ever mission for the National Guard in an African country, the Guard has a long-standing State Partnership Program, which was designed to build relationships with emerging democracies by pairing states and U.S. territories with more than 59 countries around the world.

"This is a terrific opportunity for our soldiers to take their military and civilian skills and apply them in a real-world training environment, while at the same time helping the people of the republic of Senegal," said Brigadier General Alberto Jimenez, commander of the Maryland Army National Guard. "This exercise is a continuation of the ongoing efforts by the Maryland National Guard in support of emerging democracies in countries like Bosnia-Herzegovina, Estonia and now Senegal."

Former Maryland assistant adjutant general Army Major General Edward Leacock, now deputy director of the Intelligence and Knowledge Development Division at U.S. Africa Command, said the exercise "set a strong precedent for future U.S. Africa Command engagements where the U.S. military will actively seek the partnership of stakeholders to meet common challenges."

McGill said Gladden and his medical team's mission didn't end when the last patient left the clinic. The Guard team left behind all excess medical supplies and equipment for future use by the Senegalese government.

Source: National Guard

SSG Joshua Forbess: Never Say Die, Never Quit

Bush Lauds Wounded Warrior for Serving Other Troops, Families By Donna Miles American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Nov. 25, 2008 – President George W. Bush presented a prestigious award today to a severely wounded warrior at Fort Campbell, Ky., who mentors other wounded troops and their families and volunteers at the post’s Fisher House. Army Staff Sgt. Joshua Forbess, seriously injured in a fiery Black Hawk helicopter collision over Mosul, Iraq, in November 2003, said he was motivated during his recovery to do everything in his power to return to full duty. President George W. Bush presented Forbess the President’s Volunteer Service award Nov. 25, 2008, for his work with other wounded warriors. DoD photo by Donna Miles   (Click photo for screen-resolution image);high-resolution image available. Bush presented the President’s Volunteer Service award to Army Staff Sgt. Josh Forbess, praising him for serving his nation in uniform, and going the extra measure to serve others in need. The president lauded Forbess during a pre-Thanksgiving Day visit to the Fort Campbell, noting that he’ll greatly miss the opportunities he’s had as commander in chief to spend time with those who serve the country in uniform. Forbess is one of just five 101st Airborne Division soldiers who survived a fiery Black Hawk helicopter collision over Mosul, Iraq, in November 2003. Then-Maj. Gen. David H. Petreaus, who commanded the “Screaming Eagles” at the time, called the crash that killed 17 of his soldiers a gut-wrenching low point for the entire division. “The loss of 17 soldiers in one night when two helicopters collided over Mosul was just a blow beyond belief,” he told American Forces Press Service after the division had redeployed in March 2004. “It's like losing 17 children. It's almost beyond comprehension -- a terrible, terrible blow to the organization and the individuals in it.” Forbess, who didn’t wake up from the incident until eight weeks later, lost an ear and half of his nose and received broken bones, extensive burns and smoke inhalation injuries. The accident launched his long, painful and heroic return to recovery as he struggled to return to duty and help his fellow wounded soldiers. As he recovered, the 29-year-old Decatur, Ill., native called the opportunity to return to active duty the driving force that kept him motivated. “I love my job. I love training soldiers,” he told American Forces Press Service as he was undergoing treatment at Fort Sam Houston, Texas. “There's nothing else I could do that I would enjoy as much as that.” He expressed no doubt that he’d achieve his goal. “As long as you have heart, there’s nothing to stop you,” he said. The driving force behind his efforts to recover fully and return to full duty in the military is “all in here,” he said, tapping his chest. Today, Forbess is back on duty as senior noncommissioned officer at Fort Campbell’s Soldier and Family Assistance Center. He’s also been a volunteer at the post Fisher House since it opened in 2006, leading wounded warrior meetings and providing an example of what’s possible for other wounded troops. On hearing of the honor he would receive, Forbess told a local reporter “just to be nominated is great.” He said he expected to be speechless when he received the award. Bush created the President’s Volunteer Service Award in 2002 to recognize Americans who make a difference through volunteer service. He has presented more than 650 of the awards.

Related Sites: Transcript Related Articles: Bush Praises Fort Campbell Troops for Key Role in Terror War Why I Serve: Injured Soldier Vows to Return to Full Duty Petraeus Cites Highs and Lows of Iraqi Deployment

Warrior Care: Penn State, Army create 'inclusive' recreation training

Warrior Care: Penn State, Army create 'inclusive' recreation training

Nov 25, 2008
BY Rob McIlvaine

After losing his leg to an IED while saving a Soldier in Baghdad during the spring of 2005, Kortney Clemons earned his degree in therapeutic recreation at Penn State. His book, "Amped," was published June 2008. Photo by U.S. Army

  

ALEXANDRIA, Va. (Army News Service, Nov. 25, 2008) - "Inclusive Recreation for Wounded Warriors," a first-of-its-kind training program for military recreation managers, will begin in January at Penn State's main campus at University Park, Pa.

"The program will provide the knowledge, tools and resources recreation managers need to integrate active-duty wounded warriors into their existing recreation programs," said Ruth Ann Jackson, executive director of Penn State Hospitality Leadership Institute and co-principal investigator of the project.

"This is huge, ground-breaking stuff," said Kortney Clemons, a former Army medic injured by an improvised explosive device while carrying a fellow Soldier to safety in Baghdad in February 2005.

Clemons, a 2008 graduate of Penn State with a degree in therapeutic recreation and a minor in family studies, currently is in management training with the Paralympic Division of the U.S. Olympic Committee in Colorado Springs, Colo.

"Thanks to the training I received, I'm able to help other wounded warriors as they are discharged from military hospitals out into the real world. Inclusive training for recreation managers is crucial in helping Soldiers make that transition."

After losing his leg, Clemons spent nearly 10 months in rehabilitation at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas, but never felt out of place because of all the other injured Soldiers at the hospital.

"When I attended classes at Penn State though, it was a big adjustment getting around with so many young adults who were not injured and didn't understand," Clemons said. "Inclusion recreation became a big issue and helped me get on with life."

Injured military personnel returning from Afghanistan and Iraq since 2001 now number more than 65,000. During previous wars, these men and women might have been discharged or retired. Current military policies permit wounded warriors to remain on active duty.

"The need for providing inclusive recreation services for active duty wounded warriors is more important now than ever before," said Tammy Buckley, instructor and certified therapeutic recreation specialist at Penn State University and co-principal investigator.

Prior to joining Penn State, Buckley worked in the areas of stroke, amputation and spinal cord injury. She was instrumental in developing spinal cord injury protocols for therapeutic recreation service delivery in medical rehabilitation while a clinical supervisor at the National Rehabilitation Hospital in Washington, D.C.

In her role as project manager on Penn State training projects for the MWR Academy (http://www.mwraonline.com/aboutus.asp), Buckley and her husband, Penn State instructor Ralph Smith, now retired, collaborated with the School of Hospitality Management and Outreach's Management Development Programs and Services to develop a customized four-day prototype course that was presented to the departments of defense and of veterans affairs last autumn.

"Inclusive Training for Wounded Warriors" was greeted with enthusiastic welcome.

Mike DeRose, a recreation specialist at Fort McPherson, Ga., attended the prototype course. He noted how recreation staff at most garrisons are seeing wounded warriors return from the Army's areas of operations, and the need to be prepared to provide recreation support to these Soldiers.

"Most recreation specialists don't have a background in therapeutic recreation, so this training will teach us how to include all of our returning Soldiers in our programs."

Aaron Goodman, director of outdoor recreation at Fort Campbell, Ky., stressed how wounded warrior recreation should not only be provided by the military but also by municipal programs and businesses that offer recreation programs and services in the community.

"We all have a shared interest in wounded warrior recreation since injured or retired service members not only live on base but also out in the community," he said. "Also, National Guard and Reserve Soldiers, once home, may not be near a military base, so it's imperative that their community recreation branch be prepared to offer adaptive options for inclusive recreation and specifically gear programs for them."

Recreation programs improve the state of mind, health and general well-being of wounded warriors, he added.

"These programs allow individuals to have an outlet to share their experiences and emotions in a positive environment," Goodman said. "Families have the opportunity to share in an experience together, some for the first time. This creates a great opportunity for the family to reconnect."

The overall purpose of the course is to train MWR staff on methods for integrating wounded active duty military personnel in existing MWR programs and services through appropriate adaptations and modifications.

"For example," said Buckley, "military personnel with amputations may require different prosthetic feet to rock climb, stabilization straps to lift weights or flotation aids to swim. Those with post-traumatic stress disorder who experience adverse reactions to crowds and loud noises may need recreation activities structured in quieter settings."

The course, aimed at recreation personnel across all branches of service, will increase understanding of the characteristics of various physical and psychological conditions resulting from war. These conditions include PTSD, amputation, spinal cord injury and traumatic brain injury.

"Additionally, course participants will learn how to modify activities, how to create accessible programs, and learn about recreation-related adaptive and specially designed equipment that may facilitate full engagement in MWR programs and services," Buckley said.

Penn State University is no stranger to adapting recreational programs.

"It might not seem feasible for Penn State's hilly campus, just beginning to get cold and windy, to have so many programs for people with disabilities, but as part of the prototype course, we took all the participants over to Ability Athletics to meet a coach who has trained some of the finest athletes with disabilities in the country," Buckley said.

Teri Jordan, disability recreation programs coordinator at Penn State Ability Athletics, has been taking students with disabilities through the paces in wheelchair basketball, swimming programs, and weightlifting for people who use wheelchairs and those with other varying disabilities.

"We call it Ability Athletics because we don't want to focus on what you don't have, we want to focus on what you do have," Jordan said.

The move from coaching college track to Paralympic athletics has given Jordan the opportunity to utilize her biomechanics and adaptive physical education degree from the University of Kansas.

A world record holder in the 10-mile run and a national record holder at 5,000 meters before coaching women's World Championship athletics teams in 1995 and 1999, Jordan has trained some of the finest athletes with disabilities in the country.

"I got distracted for 23 years coaching college track," she said, "but that led me to be a better coach for these athletes."

Her experience and accomplishments reflect the caliber of program she started at Penn State and the dedication she has toward enhancing the program in the future.

But "Inclusive Recreation for Wounded Warriors" is not just about physical disabilities.

Being able to recognize who is experiencing stigma or stereotyping which can be associated with physical or mental disabilities and including them their friends and family in the healthy pursuit of recreation is another aspect of the training.

Ralph Smith knows something about the stigma of war-related injury.

A Professor Emeritus and certified therapeutic recreation specialist, Smith specializes in inclusive programming for individuals with disabilities, attitudes toward disabilities and disability adjustment.

"This prototype and initial training is just scratching the surface of what needs to be done and how far we need to go," Smith said.

Medically retired from the U.S. Army because of combat wounds he received while serving with the 101st Airborne Division in Vietnam, Smith has an even longer experience of helping those with disabilities.

"My interest preceded my injury," explained Smith. "I enjoyed working with children with disabilities at summer camp while I attended college and decided to sign up for a master's program at the University of Illinois when the Army drafted me."

Besides earning his doctorate in therapeutic recreation at Penn State where he taught until his retirement this year, Smith also spent 30 years with the National Wheelchair Basketball Association and was inducted into its hall of fame in 1995.

"Further implications for inclusive programming rest with the 40% (and rising) Operation Iraqi Freedom personnel who have or may acquire PTSD," Buckley said. "This coupled with the knowledge that the incidence of PTSD increases with the number of deployments highlights the need to pay particular attention to those returning personnel who may be exhibiting signs of PTSD."

Given that PTSD sometimes goes unreported by returning personnel, the need for MWR personnel to be able to recognize the signs of PTSD and respond appropriately is imperative.

Although this course at Penn State might be scratching the surface, it's already causing ripples throughout the recreation community.

"Following the Inclusive Recreation Training prototype course at Penn State," Goodman said, "I gained a better understanding of the entire picture on inclusive recreation. As a result, I'm working on developing a global communications network for military inclusive recreation so we can connect everyone on inclusive recreation programs for injured servicemembers and their families.

"We have many people out there doing great things for injured service members and their families and many others who want to get involved. This network will give folks the chance to share programs and ideas, as well as help others start programs or answer questions," Goodman said.

Active participation in MWR services can benefit the wounded warrior by promoting psychological health and wellness and increasing combat readiness. It also reduces incidents of suicide and destructive behaviors associated with PTSD such as substance abuse and secondary problems, such as domestic violence, social isolation and depression.

"Many wounded warriors want to go back to enjoying the sport or activity they did before they were wounded and if this is not possible, then they try to explore possibilities that might be a good substitute," Buckley said.

This is where the recreational professional can also help out.

"Inclusive Training for Wounded Warriors" also complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act and supports the president's commitment to provide premiere care to military personnel and veterans.

"Many MWR recreation managers at military installations lacked the necessary training regarding disability and approaches to including wounded warriors in existing MWR programs and services," Buckley said.

"Because MWR professionals are in a unique position to assist with readjustment to community life on the installation, it's important they're able to recognize the unique needs of military personnel with war related injuries, and be able to take the initiative to assist wounded warriors with healthy reintegration into daily community and family life."

"The Army has been very receptive and tremendous in working with us. Their willingness to partner with Penn State has made this a seamless partnership and can only benefit our wounded warriors, their families and friends and the DOD," Jackson said.

These four-day classes are designed to train assistant managers, managers, recreation division chiefs and other support personnel in the MWR Recreation arena.

Through a variety of small group work, guest speakers, instruction, assigned readings, multi-media and hands-on activities, students will learn how to successfully adapt, design and/or modify their recreation programs in order to promote greater inclusion and participation of wounded warriors.

Students will also develop an "Inclusion Action Plan" to implement upon return to their installations.

(Rob McIlvaine serves with FMWRC Public Affairs.)

Sitting

Spc. Alex Leonard uses weightlifting equipment at the new Walter Reed Army Medical Center's Military Advanced Training Center. (Photo by Roger J. Mommaerts Jr.)

Photo by Roger J. Mommaerts Jr.  November 25, 2008

Rock Wall

1st Sgt. Jacque Keeslar climbs the rock wall at Walter Reed Medical Center's Military Advanced Training Center.

Photo by Roger J. Mommaerts Jr.  November 25, 2008

Rifle

Spc. Marco Robledo aims an M-4 in the Fire Arms Training Simulator at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center’s Military Advanced Training Center.

Photo by Roger J. Mommaerts Jr.  November 25, 2008

• Related Links
• Warrior Care Month
• Penn State School of Hospitality Management
• Penn State University College of Health and Human Development

Face of Defense: Corpsman Recalls Firefight That Earned Navy Cross

Corpsman Honors Marines With Own Navy Medal

By Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 26, 2008 – As the Marines in 1st Platoon, Alpha Company, 2nd Assault Amphibious Battalion advanced to secure the northern bridge in Nasiriyah, Iraq, on March 23, 2003, it seemed to then-Seaman Apprentice Luis Fonseca, a Navy hospital corpsman, that all hell had broken loose.

Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Luis Fonseca, a hospital corpsman, checks a piece of medical equipment in the course of his daily routine of caring for servicemembers. Fonseca earned a Navy Cross for bravery during the battle of Nasiriyah, Iraq, on March 23, 2003. He treated about a dozen Marines during a six-and-a-half hour firefight. DoD photo   (Click photo for screen-resolution image);high-resolution image available.

“As we came up and over the bridge, we ran right into an ambush,” he said from his current assignment aboard the USS Bataan. “They threw all they had at us -- small-arms fire, heavy machine-gun fire, rocket-propelled grenades, mortars and artillery rounds.”

That’s when Fonseca got the call from then-Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. David Myers, asking him to check on the Marines in one of the vehicles that had been hit.

Trading his communications helmet for Kevlar, the corpsman on his first deployment grabbed his medical bag and headed for the vehicle, which by then was in flames. Five Marines had suffered at least shrapnel wounds.

“I noticed I had two patients with partial lower-leg amputations, one with flash burns to his eyes, and all had shrapnel wounds,” Fonseca said. “I applied tourniquets on the two Marines with the partial leg amputations and instructed the other Marines around to apply battle dressings on the others that were wounded.”

Fonseca decided to move the wounded Marines to his vehicle to get them out of the middle of what became a six-and-a-half-hour firefight. After reassessing wounds and administering morphine to the two troops with partial leg amputations, Fonseca got a call that another vehicle had been hit.

Normally, the column is lined up in numerical order. In the midst of the firefight, as the vehicles maneuvered to gain an advantage, they got out of order.

Fonseca couldn’t find vehicle C206 and returned to his own vehicle just as the enemy got what he described as four lucky hits.

“Two of them were on our right side. One was on our center top hatch. All three were … 122 mm mortar rounds,” he said. “The fourth and final round that disabled the truck was a recoilless rifle round that blew up our transmission.”

When the smoke cleared, the wounded Marines were transferred to another vehicle and moved out of the area -- all but one.

“I picked up the last Marine … and carried him to a ditch,” Fonseca said. “The Marine and I sat in the ditch for about 30 minutes before I could get another vehicle to pick us up and drive us out of there.”

When Fonseca had gotten all his patients to the 2nd Battalion, 8th Marines’ corpsman, he turned around and headed back to the fight, where he rejoined his platoon.

“We lost about 18 Marines that day,” he said. “Fifteen others were wounded and left the battlefield, and about 10 others [who] were wounded … stayed.”

Fonseca, now a petty officer 2nd class, treated about a dozen Marines during that firefight, and as far as he knows, all of them survived their injuries. He was determined not to let them down. “As long as I was alive, I would keep working, even if it meant my life,” he said.

Fonseca was awarded the Navy Cross for his efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of the Marines under his care during the battle of Nasiriyah.

Though he was honored to have received it, he said, he doesn’t feel the medal truly belongs to him.

“The Navy Cross means to me honor, sacrifice and loyalty,” Fonseca said. “Honor because it is my honor to wear the Navy Cross for my brothers that gave their lives in that fight. So, it’s my honor to wear their Navy Cross that honors them. A lot of men sacrificed that day. Unfortunately, some families and friends had to sacrifice their loved ones.”

Since that first tour in Iraq, Fonseca has been back to Iraq once, and has served a tour in Afghanistan. He is married, and the couple has two sons.

Healing The Invisible Wounds Of War

Healing The Invisible Wounds of War

"Bandages and sutures cannot heal the sleepless nights, broken families and shattered
lives caused by the invisible wounds of war. Military chiefs are determined to help
troops combat what has become known as post-traumatic stress disorder."

The Department of Defense has set up a new site I just found called Healing The Invisible Wounds of War, and it is all about PTSD.

You really need to go spend some time here.  These are the names of the stories on just the main page.

A FACELESS ENEMY
Determined Army Sergeant Says, 'I Will Not Let Him Win'

VIRTUAL BATTLEFIELD
Reliving War's Horrors

MILITARY CHIEFS
Shrinking the Stigma

DIAGNOSIS PTSD
Symptoms, Prevalence

If you go to the related stories there are another 7 articles there PLUS links to 4 more related pages/areas of information.

Copyright 2008 MsMarti. All rights reserved.

Nov. 25 airpower summary

Nov. 25 airpower summary: A-10s deter anti-Afghan attacks

An Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II flies a combat mission over Afghanistan in support of Operations Enduring Freedom. A-10s provide close-air support and perform sorties daily providing top cover for ground forces in Southwest Asia. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Aaron Allmon) Download HiRes

11/26/2008 - SOUTHWEST ASIA (AFNS) -- Coalition airpower integrated with coalition ground forces in Iraq and International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan during operations Nov. 25, according to Combined Air and Space Operations Center officials here.

In Afghanistan, Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt IIs fired cannon rounds onto anti-Afghan forces who were firing rocket-propelled grenades at coalition forces from multiple directions in the vicinity of Nangalam. The missions were confirmed a success by an on-scene joint terminal attack controllers.

In the vicinity of Mata Khan, an Air Force MQ-1B Predator used a Hellfire missile against anti-coalition members who were emplacing improvised explosive devices on the side of a known travel route. A JTAC declared the mission successful.

Navy F/A-18E Super Hornets conducted shows of force to deter enemy activities in the vicinity of Shkin and Shurakian. The missions were reported a success by the JTACs.

In the vicinity of Musa Qaleh, a coalition aircraft performed a show of force and provided armed aerial overwatch to deter anti-Afghan forces from firing at coalition ground forces who were conducting IED search operations. A JTAC confirmed the mission successful.

An Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle conducted a show of force to deter enemy fighters and provide armed aerial overwatch for coalition mounted patrol in the vicinity of Ghazni. The missions were 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.

Sixteen 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, coalition aircraft flew 51 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 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 140 airlift sorties were flown, more than 450 tons of cargo were delivered and nearly 3,600 passengers were transported.

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

On Nov. 24, Air Force and coalition tanker crews flew 48 sorties and off-loaded approximately 3.3 million pounds of fuel to 286 receiving aircraft.

Gregory Carmack, Bronze Star, USAF, Iraq, North Carolina

 

Gregory Carmack

The Story:

The Air Force has long been associated with bombing, air superiority, lift, and search and rescue missions. In recent years, the USAF has taken on unconventional missions as well, such as training explosive ordnance specialists, assisting convoys on the ground, and deploying weapons intelligence teams. Still, thwarting a suicide bomber on the ground would appear to be an unlikely task for an airman. But that is precisely what Air Force Special Agent Gregory Carmack did last year in Kirkuk, Iraq. His quick thinking during a surprise suicide attack protected his convoy from harm and saved dozens of lives. Carmack’s heroism earned him the Bronze Star with “V” for valor.

Carmack, a 15-year veteran of the Air Force, knew well the terrain of Iraq and the Middle East, having spent six tours in the area. His duties during this tour in Iraq included locating high-value targets, performing counterintelligence missions, and assisting ground combat operations. On June 14, 2006, Carmack’s three-vehicle OSI (Office of Special Investigations) convoy moved to capture a terrorist in Kirkuk. The convoy met a nine-truck Army detachment to discuss operational details. At this time, Carmack heard a shot ring out and saw a small truck ram through an Iraqi police checkpoint and move toward the OSI and Army vehicles. Having broken the perimeter, there was nothing between the truck and the disembarked team of soldiers and special agents.

Instinctively, Carmack recognized the imminent threat to the convoy. He began firing at the truck. The other convoy members took cover – only Carmack had a clear shot at the incoming attacker. Carmack hit his target: The mortally wounded driver lost control, and he hit an unoccupied Army Humvee without detonating the explosive-laden truck. An analysis performed after the planned attack found two 130-millimeter cannonshells attached to the passenger side of the vehicle – more than enough ordnance to kill or injure all the servicemembers present. Thirty six seconds elapsed from the time Carmack noticed the bomber until the threat was neutralized. Carmack credits his training for his ability to spontaneously react to such threats. Of note, Carmack completed the mission his OSI convoy originally set out to accomplish: Three days after the failed attack, Carmack captured the high-value target near Kirkuk.

Carmack emphatically supports his mission: “I believe in what we are doing. I’ve been there, been on the ground every day for six months. What we do there is making a difference.” On September 13, 2007, Carmack received the Bronze Star with Valor. He currently serves at Hickam Air Force Base in Hawaii.

Home State: North Carolina

Awarded: Bronze Star

External Links:

• Air Force story
• http://www.defenselink.mil/heroes/profiles/carmackG.html
• Honolulu Star-Bulletin story

Interview:

• Nov 14, 2007 (4.5MB)
  WDAY 970 AM
• Nov 14, 2007 (9.5MB)
  CBC

You Can Help Too!

For those readers who come here every day, I have to think that you are liking what you find.  We started out offering the news from lraq and Afghanistan and information on ways to Support Our Troops as the foundation.

Since that time, we have expanded our areas of interest and have watched our numbers of viewers grow steadily.  That growth has come from several sources I believe.  Word of mouth as people find us and send their friends a link to our site, seeing our site linked elsewhere, and through search engine hits.  Without a large base of information, events, daily news from around the world as it applies to our military and the War On Terror, those search engine hits would be pretty low.  They are not!

Not long ago, War On Terror News signed up to be a part of Milblogging.com.  That has proven to be a good way to increase our readership.  One downside to Milblogging.com is the sheer number of sites listed there.  In order to get noticed, and we have gotten noticed, is to keep yourself in the upper half of the category for your blog.  How does that happen?  The first step is for those who contribute to War On Terror News in the form of articles, commentaries, etc. to bring a strong variety of pieces to the site.  The other is to have our number of people who have us as their favorite be higher.

In order to do this, we need people to add our site, War On Terror News, as a favorite of theirs on Milblogging.com.  How to do this?  It is quite simple.  In fact it takes only 3 short, quick steps to add us as a favorite.

1)  Go to the site, Milblogging.com and sign in.  If you are not already a member, then you can register at the same place, the link is right below the sign in box.  Yes, I know, you are probably thinking, I am not signing up for another group.  You can use a fictional name, and you don't get a lot of junk from this site, the newsletter is optional, it is easy to do.  New members need to confirm the registration email that is sent to you from Milblogging.com.

2)  Find War On Terror News in Milblogging, and click on our name.

     a)   We can be found currently under Top 100 Milblogs at #67.

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You, the reader, are able to find a large amount of news right here at War On Terror News, saving you time from searching the many DoD (Department of Defense) sites that we check several times a day, keeping you up to date and informed.

You might have noticed pieces under Answering Questions, History-Terrorism, Know Your Enemy series that are written by WOTN.  Who is WOTN?  He is one of our veterans, having served both in Iraq and Afghanistan.  He understands what is at stake in the world-wide war on terror.  He is the driving force behind this site.  He is determined to bring to light the other side of the story on what is happening in Iraq, Afghanistan and elsewhere.

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War in Afghanistan - November 26, 2008

Coalition Kills 32 Militants, Captures 10 Others in Afghanistan American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Nov. 26, 2008 – Coalition and Afghan forces killed 32 militants and captured 10 suspected militants today and yesterday during operations to disrupt terrorist networks in Afghanistan, military officials said. Coalition forces were fired on today while clearing a compound believed to be a command and control center for roadside bombs in Kandahar province. Forces returned fire, killing 15 insurgents and detaining six. Also today, militants fired on coalition and Afghan forces with machine-gun and rocket-propelled grenade fire in Helmand province. The forces returned fire, killing seven militants. During the operation, forces protected more than 300 local villagers from enemy fire, officials said. Forces searched the area and seized caches that included bomb-making materials, homemade explosives, mortar rounds and 175 pounds of opium. Yesterday, coalition forces targeted a suspected senior Taliban commander in Paktia province. The man, believed to be a liaison between the al-Qaida and Taliban terrorist networks, is suspected of aiding movement of foreign fighters into Afghanistan, officials said. Multiple militants, some of whom were barricaded inside the compound, attacked coalition forces with small-arms fire. Forces returned fire, killing five armed militants. Elsewhere, coalition forces targeted a man in Paktia province suspected of being a sub-commander in the Haqqani terrorist network. The man is believed to be responsible for planning and conducting attacks against coalition forces in the region and moving terrorist weapons and supplies, officials said. As coalition forces approached the targeted compound, two armed militants attacked them with small-arms fire. The forces returned fire, killing both men. Militants from inside the compound then fired on the forces, who directed people inside to surrender. Eight women and 11 children left the building unharmed and were moved to a safe location. After the small-arms fire continued, forces returned fire, killing three militants and capturing four other suspected militants. Forces seized multiple weapons inside the compound. (Compiled from U.S. Forces Afghanistan news releases.) Related Sites: U.S. Forces Afghanistan http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=52101 Cooperation Grows Between Afghan, U.S. Forces By Army Sgt. Zach Otto Special to American Forces Press Service BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan, Nov. 26, 2008 – Whether it is a routine patrol or a weapons search, U.S. and Afghan forces increasingly are working together to halt the violence that has haunted Afghanistan for more than 30 years. Soldiers from Alpha Company, 2nd Battalion, 506th Infantry Regiment, Combined Task Force Currahee, walk down a mountain in eastern Afghanistan’s Paktika province during a search for a weapons cache. U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Zach Otto   (Click photo for screen-resolution image);high-resolution image available. In the early stages of winter in Afghanistan, creeks begin to freeze as the temperature drops. Everything and everyone seems to slow down and hibernate for the cold weather. But the soldiers with Alpha Company, 2nd Battalion, 506th Infantry Regiment, won’t hibernate this winter. Before the sunrise on Nov. 12, many of these soldiers awoke to feel the air crisp in their lungs as they prepared to set out on a foot patrol, while others loaded up in vehicles to patrol local villages. The combined operation consisted of U.S. and Afghan soldiers and Afghan National Police who searched mountainsides and local villages for weapons caches suspected to be hidden deep within the mountains of eastern Afghanistan’s Paktika province. “The [combined] operations work much better now than they did in the past,” said Army 1st Sgt. Darrin Yuhn, embedded training team command sergeant major and mentor to the 203rd Kandak, an Afghan National Army unit that’s the equivalent of a U.S. Army battalion. “The Afghan forces are a lot more involved with the planning of operations.” The operations aren’t random; they’re driven by intelligence. “Our mission changes every day,” Army Spc. Walter Hresent, an Alpha Company radio transmitter operator, explained. “We get all kinds of intelligence, and we go from there.” This search near Combat Outpost Zirok was for rocket-propelled grenades and small-arms munitions. After a short convoy through a run-off canal, the vehicles came to halt near a small village. “We disrupt the insurgents’ operations in the area by doing patrols,” Hresent said. “They do not like us being out there, but it is working. We have not been attacked in a while.” The soldiers split into two groups after hearing that two possible caches had been located, one near the village and the other about an hour’s walk over and around mountains. The Afghan soldiers went first into the mountains. After a half hour of walking, they realized that the cache was not where they thought it was. The patrol continued into another small village, where villagers were questioned about the whereabouts of the weapons. The soldiers then headed back to base. Although no cache was found, the patrol still had positive effects on the area. “Most of the patrols we do are us moving out to the different areas, making our presence known and interacting,” Army 1st Lt. Dan Huff, the Alpha Company executive officer, said. “We show the people that we are not scared of the insurgents and that we are here to help them.” (Army Sgt. Zach Otto serves with Combined Joint Task Force 101.) Related Sites: U.S. Forces Afghanistan http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=52099 Soldiers from Alpha Company, 2nd Battalion, 506th Infantry Regiment, Combined Task Force Currahee, pull security duty in the mountains of eastern Afghanistan’s Paktika province during a search for a weapons cache. U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Zach Otto   Download screen-resolution    Download high-resolution Soldiers from Alpha Company, 2nd Battalion, 506th Infantry Regiment, Combined Task Force Currahee, patrol the mountains in eastern Afghanistan’s Paktika province during a search for a weapons cache. U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Zach Otto   Download screen-resolution    Download high-resolution Afghan Troops, Police Continue to Improve as Numbers Grow, General Says By Gerry J. Gilmore American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Nov. 25, 2008 – The performance of Afghanistan’s army and constabulary continues to improve while more soldiers and police are trained and fielded, the senior U.S. military officer responsible for their training said today. Afghan National Army and police units “are leading in the fight here today,” Army Maj. Gen. Robert W. Cone, chief of Combined Security Transition Command Afghanistan, told reporters during a satellite-carried news conference at the National Press Club here. Combined Security Transition Command Afghanistan’s mission is to partner with the Afghan government and the international community to train Afghan security forces. Afghan army units take the lead “in about 60 percent of the operations they participate in,” Cone said, noting Afghan soldiers have proved themselves to be “an effective fighting force.” Meanwhile, the ANA is undergoing expansion, Cone said. About 68,000 Afghan soldiers are now in the field, he said, with plans to field more than 130,000 trained troops eventually. Last year, Cone said, about 26,000 Afghan National Army troops were trained by U.S., coalition and Afghan instructors working for Combined Security Transition Command Afghanistan. Another 28,000 or so Afghan troops will be trained this year, he said. At the same time, Afghan army equipment is being upgraded, Cone said, noting that up-armored Humvees and modern NATO-issued weapons and other gear are replacing older vehicles and weaponry derived from the Warsaw Pact. Similar progress is being realized with Afghan National Police units, Cone said. “They, too, are leading in this counter-insurgency war,” Cone said. The police, he said, are bearing the brunt of casualties during engagements against Taliban or al-Qaida fighters. “The Afghan National Police currently suffer about 56 percent of those killed in action here in Afghanistan,” Cone reported, noting that police casualties “are more than double the rate for either the ANA or coalition forces.” Cone suggested that Afghan soldiers have a training advantage over their police counterparts. The United States and its partner nations have been training Afghan army troops for about five years, Cone said, while Afghanistan’s police training only began about a year ago. More than 22,000 Afghan police have been retrained over the past year, Cone said, noting that number amounts to more than a quarter of Afghanistan’s national police force. “We’re very pleased with our progress, but we have more to do,” Cone said. Ongoing police-reform and improvement programs, he said, include training for district officers as well as border police. Fifty-two companies of Afghan border police will be trained up over this winter at a cost of $70 million, Cone said, while 165 permanent border facilities will be constructed at a cost of about $800 million. Afghanistan’s long, rugged eastern border with Pakistan has proved problematic in recent months, as al-Qaida and Taliban fighters camped in Pakistan have been conducting cross-border raids into Afghan territory. “We believe the increased security and stability along the border and throughout the country will be worth the investment in Afghanistan,” Cone said. Though Afghan soldiers and police continue to improve, Cone said, there’s still a long way to go, and a sustained international effort is necessary to achieve ultimate success. “This is especially true in reforming the Afghan National Police,” Cone said. “We welcome the international community involvement, especially in providing police trainers and mentors.” Biographies: Army Maj. Gen. Robert W. Cone Coalition in Afghanistan Kills Six Militants, Captures 12 American Forces Press Service KABUL, Afghanistan, Nov. 25, 2008 – Coalition forces killed six armed militants and captured 12 suspected militants yesterday during operations to disrupt terrorist networks in Afghanistan’s Kapisa and Paktika provinces. In Kapisa province, coalition forces targeted a man suspected of being a commander in Hizb-e-Islami Gulbuddin, a group coalition forces in Afghanistan consider to be a terrorist organization. The man is suspected of trafficking large-scale weapons used for attacks in the region and coordinating recent attacks on coalition and Afghan forces and civilians. During the operation, militants attacked coalition forces with small-arms fire. Coalition forces responded, killing five of the militants and capturing seven other suspects, while safeguarding 11 women and 18 children. After a search of the compound, forces seized AK-47 assault rifles and other military equipment. In Paktika province, coalition forces killed one armed militant and captured five others while targeting a man suspected of association with the Haqqani terrorist network. He is suspected of facilitating the movement of weapons and foreign fighters into the region. An armed militant attacked coalition forces as they entered the targeted building. Coalition forces responded with small-arms fire, killing him. Forces also confronted a militant holding an explosive device detonator in his hand. The militant surrendered. (From a U.S. Forces Afghanistan news release.) Related Sites: U.S. Forces Afghanistan Farah governor distributes wheat to Bakwa farmers FARAH, Afghanistan — Farmers and elders from Bakwa district gather here to collect the wheat seed and fertilizer donated by the Farah governor. Governor Rahool Amin donated the 50 tons of seed and 50 tons of fertilizer to show that the Afghan government is here to help them. (ISAF photo) KABUL, Afghanistan — Farah Governor Rahool Amin recently donated 50 tons of wheat seed and 50 tons of fertilizer to the farmers of Bakwa district, all with the benefit of security provided by ISAF forces. The addition of a sub-governor in Bakwa has stabilized the district so that the government can begin working with the residents once again. Since Labo Jaan became the sub-governor, reports indicate that security has improved and the people are beginning to have hope for the future. Elders from Bakwa brought three trucks to Farah city to pick up the wheat, which will be distributed to farmers who refrain from growing poppy. The Farah Farmer’s Cooperative will advise the farmers on planting procedures, when to irrigate and when to apply fertilizer. Abdul Khali, a farmer, said that prior to the arrival of Labo Jaan most of the people had moved away because of bad security. “Now we are happy with Labo Jaan, and our lives are getting better,” he said. Amin said he chose Bakwa for the wheat distribution because he wanted to show the people that the government is with them and for them. “A lot of people called me from Bakwa and said they are very happy with the new sub-governor. They are happy that security is much better than in the past. The people are helping the security forces. The people are happy,” added Amin. ISAF’s Regional Command-West’s spokesperson, Italian Captain Antonio Bernardo, said, “This is a very good initiative [towards] improving governance and the security in Afghanistan.” Slovakian defense minister visits Uruzgan URUZGAN PROVINCE, Afghanistan — Slovakian Defence Minister Jaroslav Baška talks with Slovakian troops here Nov. 24. (ISAF photo) KABUL, Afghanistan — Slovakian Defence Minister Jaroslav Baška travelled to Uruzgan province Nov. 24 to meet the Slovakian troops deployed in the region. The Slovakian troops are responsible for the security of the Dutch, Australians, French and other nationalities based in Tarin Kowt, the capital of Uruzgan. There are also Slovakian officers working within ISAF’s provincial reconstruction team there. Whilst visiting different projects in Tarin Kowt, Jaroslav Baška was briefed on the progress of the development and reconstruction with the region. “I’m very impressed by the developments achieved so far,” Baška said.

Salim Hamdan, Terrorist, Released to Yemen, To be free by end of the Year

Detainee Transfer Announced

The Department of Defense announced today the transfer of Salim Hamdan from Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, to Yemen.

 

On Aug. 6, 2008, Hamdan was convicted of material support to terrorism at trial by military commission. A military panel of six officers found Hamdan guilty of charges that included service as a Bin Laden bodyguard in Afghanistan both before and after the attacks of Sept. 11.

 

As part of a transfer agreement with the United States, the remainder of Hamdan’s sentence will be served in Yemen.   Hamdan was sentenced to 5 ½ years in prison, with 5 years and one month credited for pre-trial confinement.  The sentence will end on Dec. 27, 2008.

 

Military commissions have historically been used to prosecute enemy combatants who violate the laws of war and provide a full and fair trial, while protecting classified and sensitive information and all personnel participating in the process, including the accused.

 

The law of war provides the legal framework to hold enemy combatants for the duration of hostilities. Trials by military commission demonstrate that the United States is committed to holding dangerous terror suspects accountable for their actions.

 

Since 2002, more than 520 detainees have departed Guantanamo for other countries including Albania, Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, Bahrain, Belgium, Denmark, Egypt, France, Germany, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Libya, Maldives, Morocco, Pakistan, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Sweden, Sudan, Tajikistan, Turkey, Uganda, the United Kingdom, and Yemen. 

 

Approximately 250 detainees remain at Guantanamo.

War In Iraq Daily News - November 25, 2008

Soldiers Prepare for Thanksgiving in Northeastern Baghdad

Wednesday, 26 November 2008

FOB WAR EAGLE — Soldiers from the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Multi-National Division – Baghdad, will enjoy a feast of fresh turkey with all the fixings this Thanksgiving holiday.

Three months ago, food service technicians and officers began planning for this celebration to ensure that every Soldier operating in their area was provided with a traditional Thanksgiving meal, Nov. 27.

Warrant Officer Darryl Goddard, a food service officer with 3rd BCT, 4th Inf. Div., who has been planning the Thanksgiving dinner here, is ready for the challenge of feeding more than 300 Soldiers.

“I am ensuring that Soldiers at FOB War Eagle and 4th Inf. Div. are supported with a little taste of home … and I am working diligently to ensure they get the necessary feeling of home here in Iraq,” said the Norfolk, Va., native.

That taste of home includes more than 800 pounds of fresh turkey, which will be prepared and fixed at the larger dining facilities and then pushed out to the smaller combat outposts and joint security stations.

“Every Soldier will get a good Thanksgiving dinner based upon patrol schedule,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Daniel Dailey, a Palmerton, Pa., native, who serves as the senior enlisted leader for the 3rd BCT, 4th Inf. Div. “It will be a continuous operation throughout the day.”

But turkey is not the only traditional food being served to the troops this holiday season. Sweet potato pie, apple cobbler and Baskin Robin’s ice cream are other treats to accompany the feast.

“I feel that it is important from a biblical standpoint and a moral standpoint for Soldiers on the battlefield be able to be comfortable and enjoy the Thanksgiving tradition that has been going on for centuries,” said Goddard.

(By Scott Flenner, 4th Infantry Division)

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. 24 •This edition features a story on the significant duty of air traffic controllers in Taji. Watch Now

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Freedom Journal Iraq, Nov. 24 •This edition features stories on the Iraqi National Police recruits undergoing training and Soldiers visiting with local Iraqi families to build and measure relations. Watch Now Tuesday, 25 November 2008 Iraq Police conference held in Kirkuk Tuesday, 25 November 2008 Marine, Soldier attacked by SAF (Biaj) Tuesday, 25 November 2008 2 CSC schools open in Sidera, TaqTaq Villages Tuesday, 25 November 2008 IA, MND-B Soldiers seize weapons, munitions throughout Baghdad Tuesday, 25 November 2008 Increasing Iraqi capability to train the intelligence community (Taji)

Best Friends

Tuesday, 25 November 2008	Sol tip leads MND-B Soldiers to recover UXO
Tuesday, 25 November 2008	Renovations, improvements in Sadr City brighten hopes
Tuesday, 25 November 2008	Battalion from Iraqi Army 8th Infantry Division completes warfighter training
Tuesday, 25 November 2008	ISF keeps pressure on terrorists in Mosul during major operation

MOSUL, Iraq – As the Iraqi Security Forces continue to clear the city of Mosul of terrorists, the number of caches found and insurgents detained is on the rise.

Since the start of Operation Mother of Two Springs II  Oct. 15, 40 caches have been discovered and reduced, and 600 suspected terrorists have been detained. Mother of Two Springs II is the third, large-scale operation conducted by the ISF since May.

Coalition Forces officials say the major impact of this operation has been the reduction in vehicle-borne improvised explosive device attacks and cache finds in the city.

“Make no mistake about it, terrorists are facing a more than capable Iraqi Security Force backed by a committed coalition effort. The ISF remain determined to establishing permanent security in and around Mosul,” said Maj. Gary Dangerfield Coalition Force spokesperson, Ninewa province.

Go Team!

Tuesday, 25 November 2008	Micro-grants help economic growth, support citizens in New Baghdad
Tuesday, 25 November 2008	MND-N Soldier dies of non-battle related cause
Tuesday, 25 November 2008	ISF take the lead to combat weapons trafficking

Tuesday, 25 November 2008	Amarah residents look forward to ‘a breath of fresh air’ as new incinerator nears completion
Tuesday, 25 November 2008	7 suspected criminals arrested in central Iraq

BALAD, Iraq – Iraqi Security Forces, with Coalition forces advisors, arrested seven suspected criminals during operations in central Iraq Nov. 20-21.

A reported Special Groups leader and two others were arrested Nov. 21 in Al Qurna during an Iraqi Special Operations Forces operation. The suspected SG leader has allegedly worked with Iranian intelligence for three years and helped smuggle weapons, money and information into Iraq to facilitate SG activities.

In a separate operation, Iraqi Army soldiers, operating under the authority of a Diwaniyah judicial warrant, arrested a suspected criminal who reportedly was trained conduct assassinations of ranking ISF officials.  In an unrelated operation in Hashimiyah, an Al Hillah Special Weapons and Tactics team, acting on a warrant issued by the Ministry of the Interior, arrested another suspected criminal during a raid to disrupt criminal operations in Babil province.

On Nov. 20 ISOF captured another suspected criminal during an operation in West Rashid, Baghdad.

In an unrelated operation, an Al Hillah SWAT team detained another suspected SG member in Hayy Askari. This suspected criminal is believed to have ties to transporting weapons, kidnapping and improvised explosive attacks against ISF.

Being Constructive

Tuesday, 25 November 2008	Iraqi National Police, Soldiers bring supplies, toys to Abu Ghraib
Tuesday, 25 November 2008	Central Euphrates Farmers Market ahead of schedule
Tuesday, 25 November 2008	Iraqi National Police strive to serve, protect

Tuesday, 25 November 2008	IA, MND-B Soldiers seize weapons, munitions in Baghdad
Tuesday, 25 November 2008	MND-B Soldiers seize cache northwest of Baghdad

Tuesday, 25 November 2008

Iraqi Security Forces seize weapons caches, capture 2 suspected terrorists in northern Iraq

BALAD, Iraq – Iraqi Security Forces (ISF), with Coalition force advisors, captured two suspected al-Qaeda in Iraq/Islamic State of Iraq terrorist and seized a weapons cache during separate operations in northern Iraq on Nov 20-21.

Iraqi Army (IA) soldiers captured a suspected AQI/ISI terrorist during a raid Nov. 21 in Al Zirai. This operation targeted terrorist leadership and operational capability in Ninewa province. The detained individual was suspected of facilitating foreign fighters, displaced insurgents and equipment moving through Mosul.

In a separate operation, the IA detained an alleged AQI Foreign Fighter Facilitator in the Farhatiya area Nov. 20.

In an unrelated operation, on Nov. 20, Mandali Special Weapons and Tactics Teams (SWAT) discovered a weapons cache in the Mahmoud Salman Dahash Village. The cache contained a variety of improvised explosive device making materials.

Sweet Police

Tuesday, 25 November 2008	14 killed, 4 injured in Baghdad explosion
Tuesday, 25 November 2008	Karkh Explosion kills 1, injures 9 ISF quick action saves lives
Tuesday, 25 November 2008	Reconstruction team vital to Striker Brigade’s success
Tuesday, 25 November 2008	Chief of Chaplains visits troops in Baghdad’s International Zone

Tuesday, 25 November 2008

Coalition forces kill two terrorists, capture nine

BAGHDAD – During multiple operations targeting al-Qaeda in Iraq on Monday and Tuesday, Coalition forces dealt significant blows to the terrorist organization by killing two terrorists, capturing one wanted man and detaining eight suspects.

Coalition forces struck AQI’s foreign terrorist facilitation network Monday, killing two terrorists during an operation near Rawah, 212 km southwest of Mosul.  As the assault force approached a vehicle believed to be occupied by a man assessed to move foreign operatives into Iraq, two armed men exited the vehicle and engaged the Soldiers with small arms fire.  Coalition forces, acting in self defense, returned fire, killing the men.  It was determined after the operation that one of the dead terrorists was the wanted man.  A subsequent search of the vehicle yielded multiple rifles, three rocket-propelled grenade rounds, 12 grenades and a suicide vest.

AQI leadership was the target of an operation Monday in Bayji, about 160 km south of Mosul.  There, Coalition forces captured a wanted man assessed to be the leader of a terrorist cell in the city.

Also Monday, two suspects believed to be associated with an AQI car bomb cell leader were detained in Tikrit, about 160 km north of Baghdad.

Improvised explosive device and car bomb cells were also degraded during an operation in Mosul on Tuesday, which netted two men believed to be associated with the city’s car bomb and IED network leader.

Coalition forces continued to disrupt AQI leadership networks around the country Tuesday.  In Baghdad, forces detained two men during an operation targeting AQI senior leadership.

In Tikrit, about 160 km north of Baghdad, forces detained two men believed to be associates of a senior courier in AQI’s Diyala network.

DoD, VA Laud Bridges Between Electronic Health Databases

Software Fosters Medical Data Exchange

By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 24, 2008 – Software platforms that bridge the medical databases of the Defense and Veterans Affairs departments are improving military health care, officials said today.

One piece of this architecture, the Bidirectional Health Information Exchange, is a data exchange initiative that permits DoD and VA clinicians to view in real time the electronic health care information stored on each other's computer systems.

“VA and DoD are now sharing almost all essential health information that's available electronically in a viewable format,” Dr. Gerald Cross, the Veterans Health Administration’s principal deputy under secretary for health, said at a Pentagon news conference.

“That means that a VA doctor … can look at veteran’s DoD medical record and see if the patient has any known conditions like allergies, and the doctor can look up the vital signs and review the results of all the lab tests taken at a DoD medical facility,” he said.

The system, which is operable at all VA and DoD medical facilities, is one highlight of an electronic information sharing effort between the two departments that dates back to 2001. Pentagon officials hailed the Bidirectional Health Information Exchange, or BHIE, and other cooperative initiatives when they were announced some 11 months ago.

“These enhancements demonstrate the unprecedented level of interoperability that DoD and VA have been able to achieve with our electronic health record systems, and they contribute significantly to patient safety and continuity of care,” Dr. S. Ward Casscells, assistant secretary of defense for health affairs, said during the launch.

A joint DoD-VA task force, called the Interagency Clinical Informatics Board, determined the criteria for which medical information would need to be shared, said Lois Kellett, the acting director of the DoD/VA interagency program office.

“They will keep adapting and continue to expand to meet our clinicians' needs,” she said of the task force’s continued guidance.

At today’s conference, which provided an update on the overall interagency health information sharing efforts, Cross emphasized that the initiatives were about much more than technology.

“Their joint efforts are a testament to the power of collaboration and proof of the great things that VA and DoD can accomplish when we work together on behalf of America's heroes,” he said, adding, “This is about continuity of care.”

An electronic health record is a tool for collecting, storing, manipulating and communicating health information, Dr. Stephen Jones, the principal deputy assistant secretary of defense for health affairs, said. Such records can reduce duplicate testing and adverse drug interaction, increase preventive care and improve the care of chronic diseases, he said.

Jones added that the interagency effort represents a breakthrough in medical information sharing. “In fact, current health information-sharing capabilities between DoD and VA are well ahead of those in the private sector in both scope and scale,” he said.

One of the other initiatives launched in December 2007 was the Clinical Data Repository/Health Data Repository, or CHDR. This software actively synchronizes data between DoD and VA repositories for patients who receive health services from both agencies, according to a Defense Department news release.

Putting data in sync increases patient safety by alerting care providers at DoD, VA and even retail pharmacies to possible drug allergies or harmful interactions, Cross said.

“That means that when a doctor prescribes a drug, the [information technology] interface automatically checks the VA and DoD systems to be sure that the patient doesn't have any allergies to any drug, [and] … isn't taking any other drugs that could cause a harmful reaction,” Cross said.

As of August, CHDR was in production and testing phases at seven sites across the country.

Biographies:
Dr. S. Ward Casscells
Dr. Stephen Jones

Corpsman earns "combat V"

Corpsman earns "combat V"

11/25/2008  By 2nd Marine Logistics Group (fwd) Public Affairs  , 2nd Marine Logistics Group 

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

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. (Nov. 25, 2008) —A hospital corpsman with the 2nd Marine Logistics Group’s 2nd Medical Battalion was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with a combat distinguishing device in an awards ceremony here, Nov. 19th.

Petty Officer 1st Class Casey A. Wheeler earned the medal during Operation Rustam, Sept. 30, 2007, while assigned with Military Transition Team 0142, which was partnered with 2nd Battalion, 4th Brigade, 1st Iraqi Army Division.

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  MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. (Nov. 25, 2008)-2nd Marine Logistics Group's commanding general, Brig. Gen. Juan G. Ayala, is shown with Petty Officer 1st Class Casey A. Wheeler, a hospital corpsman with 2nd Medical Battalion, 2nd MLG, who was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with a combat distinguishing device, for his actions while deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Wheeler received the award at a ceremony that took place here, Nov. 19th, 2008., 2nd Marine Logistics Group (fwd) Public Affairs, 11/19/2008 9:06 AM

During the operation, Wheeler, a Wasilla, Alaska native, was part of a six-man team integrated into a squad of 14 Iraqi Army soldiers.  The team’s mission was to provide command and control of an Iraqi platoon that was tasked with conducting a raid to capture a high valued individual in the Al Fahdil enclave of Baghdad, Iraq.

The team soon found themselves in an ambush.

Wheeler immediately returned fire in order to assist in the team’s effort to gain fire superiority and allow Marines and Iraqi soldiers to maneuver out of the ambush.

During the battle, the team received three casualties to include one KIA. The first casualty was an IA soldier who was shot in his right leg.  After controlling the bleeding, Wheeler returned the IA soldier to the fight.

Shortly after, one of the team members, Gunnery Sgt. Jerome Murkerson Jr., took a fatal gunshot to the head.

Without hesitation, Wheeler attended to the Marine while under fire and moved him to a covered position.

 “I did my absolute best to stay in the fight as much as possible,” Wheeler said.  “Lt. Leach helped assess gunny.  Most importantly I kept calm and remembered ‘they’re not your friend, they’re your patient’ and I couldn’t break down.”

The death of the gunnery sergeant rendered 10 IA soldiers disabled as they panicked in the battle. Wheeler was able to help rally the soldiers and return them to combat.

“After our gunny was killed, they were psychologically incapacitated and mentally unengaged,” he explained.  “Four hours later, we put them out on a patrol, gave them motivation and worked as a team and returned them to the fight.”

Wheeler did not let the loss of his teammate stop him.  He quickly established a casualty collection point and began coordinating with a coalition quick reaction force to evacuate the casualties from the combat zone.

The team soon took another casualty.

Another teammate, an Army first lieutenant received a gunshot wound to his right leg.  Wheeler treated the wound, enabling the lieutenant to continue in the fight.

He then continued to assist at the established casualty collection point and helped coordinate water and medical re-supply to sustain the combat readiness of the team through the 6-hour battle.

It wasn’t until the battle was over that Wheeler would allow himself to step out of the fight and ponder the day’s events.  To this day when he thinks about Sept. 30, 2007 he thinks of Gunnery Sgt. Jerome Murkerson Jr., and his team.

“How would you feel if your doc broke down?” he said.  “It wasn’t until I was washing the blood off that I was able to reflect on what had just happened.  I feel very honored to receive this award, but everything associated with that award, or with that night, reminds me of gunny.”

Wheeler credits his quick reactions to training he did before deployment.

“For the corpsman, if you have any down time, think of the worst scenario to treat a patient and train under that,” Wheeler said.  “Even if you’re not calm, fake being calm. Never give up the opportunity to train.”

Honoring Heroes at the Holidays Tour

Friends,

I’m writing you today with an exciting announcement and also to ask for your help.  Once again I'll be joining Move America Forward on a cross-country tour to support and honor our troops.  The Second Annual Honoring Heroes at the Holidays tour will support MAF’s ongoing care package program which allows Americans everywhere to quickly and easily send goodies to our troops with a personal message of thanks.  We’ll be driving coast to coast to hold rallies reminding people that so many of our men and women are spending the holidays far from home fighting to preserve our freedom. 

It’s so important that we recognize and support the men and women fighting for this nation, that I'm willing to give up 2 weeks from my holiday season to be on the road, taking our message to the streets and encouraging patriots to send a token of appreciation to our brave troops.  But it will take the help of many, many people for us to be successful and brighten the holidays of our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan.  There are a few things you can do to help and I hope you’ll be generous in giving to this very worthy cause. 

The first thing you can do is to simply sponsor a package.  Thanksgiving packs can still be sponsored and will be shipped ASAP, and Christmas packs will be going up soon.  The next thing you can do is to tell your friends about this program and encourage them to join the effort and keep spreading the word and reminding people of the sacrifices our men and women are making as we enjoy the holidays with friends and family at home.

Another thing you can do is to come to one of our events.  We love seeing all the people who come out to see us on our tours, especially those who have served.  I would be personally honored to give each of you a hug and thank you.  If you live near one of the cities listed below, I hope you’ll find the time to come out and help me honor and support our troops and their families. 

But even before that, if you live near one of those cities, we need your help organizing the events.  We still need to secure locations for us to set up in most of these cities, and we can use help getting out the word and building crowds anywhere we’re going.  If you think you might be able to serve as a local coordinator, please email [email protected] as soon as you can and find out how you can help in your home town. 

 

The Honoring Heroes at the Holidays tour will be going to:

Sacramento, CA on 12/8

Walnut Creek, CA on 12/8

Fresno, CA on 12/9

Henderson, NV on 12/10

Flagstaff, AZ on 12/10

Phoenix, AZ on 12/11

Tucson, AZ on 12/11

El Paso, TX on 12/12

Albuquerque, NM on 12/13

Amarillo, TX on 12/14

Oklahoma City, OK on 12/15

Dallas, TX on 12/15

Little Rock, TX on 12/16

Memphis, TN on 12/17

Nashville, TN on 12/17

Atlanta, GA on 12/18

Savannah, GA on 12/19

Jacksonville, FL on 12/19

Orlando, FL on 12/20

Miami, FL on 12/20

 

This list is subject to some change, but it’s probably very close to what we’ll actually do.  Please consider helping us with one of these stops, attending one of the rallies, spreading the word about the program, or at least sponsoring a care package yourself.  It will mean a lot to our troops and to me.

While I am facing another holiday season without my son Marc and missing his smile and his presence, I have so much to be thankful for! The blessing of family, the one I was born into, the ones I was blessed to have birthed, the ones they birthed, my church family, and the ones that have been grafted into my family since Marc's death. So many warriors and patriots who God has added to my family. I am thankful for God's continued love, strength, compassion and patience with me as I grow in his wisdom. The ablility and platform to be able to thank all of those who have fought for me and my freedoms. The continued support from so many amazing people just like you!

 

Debbie Lee

 

Proud Mother of Marc Alan Lee

First Navy SEAL killed in Iraq 8-2-06

Post-combat coping methods vary, troops say

Post-combat coping methods vary, troops say

by Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

11/25/2008 - WASHINGTON (AFNS)  -- Methods of coping with combat and its aftereffects vary as greatly as the effects themselves, six warriors participating in a conference panel here said.
 
Officials at the Defense Centers of Excellence for Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury hosted the "Warrior Resilience Conference: Partnership with the Line" Nov. 18 to 20.  Combat veterans who spoke at the conference described a range of effects and needs in becoming resilient.

Army Maj. Stephen Williams was the head nurse with an outpatient unit of the 3rd Medical Command's 28th Combat Support Hospital in Baghdad when the base was hit with mortars July 10.

Since then, Major Williams has dwelled not on what he saw or did that day, but on what he couldn't do -- save his battle partner, Army Capt. Maria Ortiz.

"I couldn't provide assistance to my comrade who was actually lying next to me and ended up passing away," said Major Williams, who was seriously wounded in his leg with a severed femoral artery.

Dealing with the reality that he couldn't help Captain Ortiz was just one piece of a larger puzzle for Major Williams. He also had to face how his injuries would affect him and his family. When he returned home to convalesce, he said, his young children wouldn't touch him, for fear they would hurt him.

"In hindsight, I didn't know enough to say, 'Hey, we need to talk to them more [deeply] on this," he said. "So, I think there's something more that we could do for the families out there [to] let them come to grips with these situations."

An Army couple at the conference, the Blackledges, also know how crucial it is to have family support during the healing process and just how important it is to come to grips with what's happened.

Army Maj. Gen. David Blackledge, a West Point graduate, has served for 32 years and was serving with the 352nd Civil Affairs Command in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in January 2003. He was on his last mission outside the wire before heading home when his convoy was ambushed. The vehicle he was riding in rolled and, among other injuries, he suffered a crushed vertebra.

It took nearly two years for him to fully recover and return to full duty. During this time his wife, Air Force Lt. Colonel-select Iwona E. Blackledge, learned how spouses cope with the effects of war.

She had attended family readiness group briefings. It was a good start, but there's really no preparing for what she endured.

"It is very hard to prepare someone for that 5 o'clock call in the morning," she said. "What helped was that it was my husband who called, so I knew he was OK. Once he hung up, I was all alone and that's when the stress started."

Talking to a psychiatrist at Walter Reed Army Medical Center here after her husband arrived gave her an idea of what to expect and how to deal with what might come up, she said.

General Blackledge returned to theater after his recovery only to be injured again, albeit much less severely, in a bombing. 

His resiliency after combat, he said, came from family support and belief in the mission. Also, talking about it was a big help, he said.

"When I got to Walter Reed, they immediately assigned a psychologist to me," as is protocol for all traumatic cases returning to the facility, General Blackledge said. "He was really helpful because I was going through the dreams and all that stuff. He talked me through it, gave me some tips on how to deal with that [and] ... what I would expect to deal with over the preceding weeks and months."

Retired Army Capt. Dawn Halfaker said, for her, recovery was a three-part process that began in the hospital. That phase focuses on physically rebuilding the body. She lost an arm when her vehicle was ambushed with small-arms and rocket-propelled-grenade fire while she was serving in Baqouba, Iraq, in February 2004.

"I really, really would not be, I don't think, here today or the person I am today without the physical therapy and occupational therapy that I received," Captain Halfaker said. "Although I wasn't certainly busting out pushups or maxing my [physical test] ... I was working toward a goal of getting better.

"That was really, I think, a positive and powerful phase for me," she added.

Then, the West Point graduate entered the reintegration phase and realized it's a journey that never ends.

"Every day something comes up that is difficult or challenging, or socially awkward or, I guess, psychologically challenging," Captain Halfaker said. "I feel like the support I had at Walter Reed and my family support and just sort of my ability through my work ... to regain that sense of purpose is so critical to get through all those little frustrations."

One thing that really helped, Captain Halfaker said, was when she received a call from Army Lt. Gen. Martin Dempsey, former acting commander of U.S. Central Command, from Iraq. Captain Halfaker had played on the West Point basketball team with General Dempsey's daughter.

"That was just huge. I can't even explain how powerful that was," she said of the call.

Retired Army Master Sgt. Christopher Scheuerman reiterated suggestions that leaders throughout the chain of command need to be involved with their troops, even before injuries occur.

After a disciplinary action and corrective training for being what the Army labeled a "malingerer," Sergeant Scheuerman's son, Jason, assigned to the 3rd Infantry Division at the time, killed himself, Sergeant Scheuerman told the audience.

"We have a foundation of support, that foundation being our chain of command, the chaplaincy and medical," he said. "Very seldom do all three of those foundations of support fail.

"In this case, all three did," he added.

Realizing he was suffering from post traumatic stress disorder, Sergeant Scheuerman, who trains medics at Fort Bragg, N.C., began seeing a therapist and never failed to mention it to his students.

"Just by telling them that, almost every class, three of four of them would come to me later and say, 'How did you start that? I need to do that, too,'" he said. "We have to err on the side of soldiers' safety, because if we make a mistake, resiliency breaks down [and] we lose a soldier.

"It's horrible to lose the soldiers we have to, [but] it's an absolute tragedy to lose a soldier we shouldn't."

Retired Marine Sgt. Andrew Brandi, who works with veterans returning from combat, is working to prevent losing any more servicemembers to what he described as the "norm" for his generation.

"I was sitting down with three of my good Marine Corps buddies, all [diagnosed as] 100 [percent PTSD disabled] ... not too long ago. Relationships came up,'" Sergeant Brandi said. "Between the four of us ... we had 23 wives. I've had 65 jobs, five major career changes and three wives, so I was by no means the record holder in this group."

But one of his buddies piped up to say that's "normal" for what they'd been through.

"He was right. For my generation that's normal," Sergeant Brandi said. "We do not want this generation to go through what we have for the last 40 years."

Veterans have the strength to overcome, but it won't be easy, Sergeant Brandi said.

"I want these young folks to know they have the strength as warriors to get through the [Veterans Affairs] programs and face it," he said. "Is it easy? Hell, no. But is it worth it? Absolutely.

"Life can be excellent, but it takes a lot of guts ... to get through it," he added. "We have the strength to do this."

PACAF key to stability in diverse theater, general says

PACAF key to stability in diverse theater, general says

Maintainers work on a B-52 Stratofortress bomber on the flightline at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam. The bomber's presence there enhances regional security, demonstrates U.S. commitment to the Pacific region and provides integrated training opportunities for deployed Airmen. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Vanessa Valentine) Download HiRes

Related Biographies • LIEUTENANT GENERAL LOYD S. "CHIP" UTTERBACK

by Maj. Sam Highley
13th Air Force Public Affairs

11/25/2008 - HICKAM AIR FORCE BASE, Hawaii (AFNS) -- The Pacific theater is large, diverse and complicated, but the Airmen of Pacific Air Forces are up to the challenge, according to a senior PACAF leader speaking in Los Angeles Nov. 20.

Lt. Gen. Chip Utterback, 13th Air Force commander, kicked off the Air Force Association Global Warfare Symposium with a briefing on how PACAF approaches the vast Pacific theater, home to 36 countries, nearly 60 percent of the world's population and six of the world's largest armed forces.

"We are first and foremost challenged in the Pacific by the tyranny of time and distance," General Utterback said. "That calculus drives virtually everything I do as a warfighter in the Pacific. It drives our planning (and) it drives our execution."

The PACAF area of responsibility covers more than 100 million square miles, or 51 percent of the Earth's surface, meaning the time it takes to get from one location to another can be a major challenge, the general said.

"We have strategically postured our forces throughout the Pacific to overcome not only those vast distances but the emerging threats, the traditional threats and the challenges we face in the Pacific," General Utterback said.

This force posturing includes nine bases in the region from which the very latest in airpower technology operates, the general said. Three of seven planned F-22 Raptor squadrons will be assigned to the Pacific, two C-17 Globemaster III squadrons recently stood up in the AOR and the Global Hawk unmanned aircraft system soon will find a home at Guam, General Utterback said.

"And for several years now, we have maintained a continuous bomber presence out at Guam with either B-1 (Lancers), B-2 (Spirits), or that magnificent B-52 (Stratofortress) that continues to fly on and on," the general said.

In 2009, Air Force, Marine and Navy fighters also will operate out of Guam on a regular basis, he added.

Although posturing forces and providing responsive combat capability is important, PACAF officials also understand that a stable Pacific can only be achieved by engaging with the area's other nations, General Utterback said.

"(We) are promoting regional security and stability by continuing and expanding a robust program of military-to-military exchanges with our foreign friends," the general said. "Some of these relationships are long-standing. Some of them are new (and) flourishing."

Events like the PACAF-sponsored 2008 Pacific Rim Airpower Symposium, in which military representatives from 17 nations met to discuss disaster response, and the nearly 40 exercises a year PACAF forces participate in, are building "an absolutely necessary foundation for reliable communication" between military leaders across the region, General Utterback said.

These military-to-military exchanges are about building personal relationships, and the 45,000 total force Airmen assigned to PACAF are doing that both in the Pacific region and around the world, the general said. Some 2,050 PACAF Airmen are deployed worldwide every day, not counting the 6,800 7th Air Force Airmen deployed to the Korean peninsula, he said.

"We're making a difference," General Utterback said. "We're out there every day extending America's helping hand during crisis while teaching others how to deal with crisis. We're not just fishing out there, we're teaching others how to fish."

Nationwide Compensation Seminars

Nationwide Compensation Seminars

HOUSTON, TX (November 17, 2008)  Of the 26 million veterans currently living, only a handful are aware of the benefits that are eligible to them.  An even smaller number are aware of how to obtain their benefits. As a result, U.S.Veteran Compensation Programs announced today they have developed a traveling Benefits Team that will host seminars around the country.   

The Benefits Team is responsible for visiting those areas of the country where there is a high concentration of veterans.  Traveling from city to city, the Benefits Team will help veterans understand the benefits process, how to navigate through governmental bureaucracies, how to develop strategies that will surely manifest in benefits for veterans, and connecting veterans with the right people and organizations to get the compensation process started.

I see veterans in my office all the time who never knew they were eligible for benefits, said Albert Rios, Benefits Team, Team Leader.  Our team will make veterans aware of potential benefits and show each veteran in a step-by-step approach what they must do to be awarded benefits for life. Many veterans get frustrated by the layers of bureaucracy they must face and give up seeking their benefits.  We arm them [veterans] with tools that break down the bureaucracy barriers and eliminates their frustration.

The Benefits Team is confident that educating veterans about the process and the bureaucratic dance of securing benefits or increasing compensations and pensions will decrease the anger and distrust many veterans feel toward the government.

The seminars main objective is to help each veteran who attends the seminar strategize their approach to securing compensation.  Strategies are based on the individual issue of each veteran.


About U.S. Veteran Compensation Programs:

Launched in March 2007, U.S. Veteran Compensation Programs researches and distributes compensable benefits information to U.S. veterans.  Also, they are a major conduit for free services available to veterans.

 

http://www.veteranprograms.com

Travel charge cards to switch over Nov. 30

Travel charge cards to switch over Nov. 30

11/25/2008 - WASHINGTON (AFNS)  -- The government-issued Bank of America official travel charge card that's been used for years by Defense Department military and civilian employees will be deactivated effective Nov. 30, Defense Travel Management Office officials said. 

Citibank has the new contract, and eligible defense military and civilian travelers should have received their new Citibank travel charge cards in August or September. The switchover to Citibank is slated to occur at midnight the morning of Nov. 30.

"The way the new Citi card will be used is exactly the same as the current Bank of America card," Nina Richman-Loo, DTMO's chief of special programs and outreach, said during a July 10 interview. "The cardholder agreement is the same cardholder agreement that our travelers read and signed when they got their Bank of America card."

Bank of America had held DOD's official travel charge card contract for a decade.

Travelers are required to call and verify receipt of their new Citibank cards, and personal identification numbers for the new Citibank cards should have arrived on or around Nov. 1.

The Citibank card will offer some of the same features Bank of America cardholders are accustomed to, including an online payment option.

Current Bank of America government travel card holders are required to pay off any outstanding balances by Nov. 29.

Travelers with questions about the new Citibank travel charge card can ask their agency travel program managers or access DTMO's Web site for answers. 

(Courtesy of American Forces Press Service)

Nov. 24 airpower summary

Nov. 24 airpower summary: C-130s vital to transport missions

A C-130 Hercules prepares to depart a Southwest Asia air base on a sortie en route to Iraq. The C-130s are vital to transporting passengers and cargo, providing intra-theater heavy airlift and supporting operations throughout Afghanistan, Iraq and the Horn of Africa. The C-130 is assigned to the 386th Expeditionary Operations Group. (U.S. Air Force photo/Tech. Sgt. Raheem Moore) Download HiRes

11/25/2008 - SOUTHWEST ASIA (AFNS) -- Coalition airpower integrated with coalition ground forces in Iraq and International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan during operations Nov. 24, according to Combined Air and Space Operations Center officials here.

In Afghanistan, Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt IIs dropped a guided bomb unit-38 and fired cannon rounds onto anti-Afghan forces who were firing rocket-propelled grenades at coalition forces on a hillside in the vicinity of Bari Kowt. The missions were confirmed a success by an on-scene joint terminal attack controllers.

In the vicinity of Kajaki Dam, an Air Force B-1B Lancer dropped a GBU-38 and GBU-31s onto anti-Afghan forces who were hunkered down in a bunker using small arms fire against a coalition forces convoy conducting operations in the area. A JTAC declared the mission successful.

A Navy F/A-18C Hornet dropped GBU-38s onto a compound where anti-Afghan forces were firing rocket-propelled grenades at coalition forces in the vicinity of Musa Qal'Eh. The mission was reported a success by a JTAC.

In the vicinity of Garmser, a Navy F/A-18A Hornet and a Navy F/A-18E Super Hornet performed shows of force and provided armed aerial overwatch to deter anti-Afghan forces from firing at coalition ground forces who were conducting foot patrol operations. The JTACs confirmed the missions successful.

Air Force F-15E Strike Eagles conducted shows of force to deter enemy fighters and provide armed aerial overwatch for Afghan national army members performing assess and recovery operations in the vicinity of Ghazni. The missions were declared a success by the JTACs

In the vicinity of Shurakian and near Gereshk, F/A-18Es conducted shows of force to deter enemy activities. The JTACs reported the missions successful.

A coalition aircraft performed a show of force and provided armed aerial overwatch for a coalition forces convoy in the vicinity of Qarah Bagh. The mission was confirmed a success by a JTAC.

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

Thirteen 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.

Thirty-three 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 140 airlift sorties were flown, more than 450 tons of cargo were delivered and nearly 2,800 passengers were transported. This included approximately 89,000 pounds of troop resupply airdropped in Afghanistan.

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

On Nov. 23, Air Force and coalition tanker crews flew 49 sorties and off-loaded approximately 3.4 million pounds of fuel to 277 receiving aircraft.

Program Plans Suicide-Prevention ‘Webinar’ for Grief Counselors

Suicide Prevention 'Webinar' Planned

By Jamie Findlater
Special to American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 25, 2008 – As part of an effort to educate civilian and military health care providers about grief counseling, the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors, or TAPS, is planning a “webinar” featuring a leading expert in suicide prevention.

“There are a lot of emotions that emerge during a time of grief,” Jill Harrington LaMorie, TAPS education training manager, said in an “ASY Live” interview on BlogTalkRadio.com. “Sometimes, casualty assistance is very much on-the-job training, and it’s important to know, ‘What is grief? What is trauma? What are the emotions that a family goes through when a military death happens?’”

The webinar with Dr. David A Jobes, co-clinical director at Catholic University, is the first in a series of professional continuing education training courses that TAPS is offering. It’s scheduled from noon to 1 p.m. EST on Dec. 4.

“In the military, deaths tend to be young and tend to be traumatic in nature and unexpected,” LaMorie said. “We want to raise the understanding of those who interface with our family members as well as community health professionals. Additionally, a lot of our military members may turn to civilian outlets, and we want our community health providers to know that there are special needs encountered by our military members.”

The webinar is free for active duty military members and employees at the Department of Veterans Affairs. For civilians seeking continuing education credit, a registration fee of $25 applies.

LaMorie explained that the seminars will be held during lunch time, so anyone with a computer and a telephone can access it. “Anyone who works with our military and military surviving family members can benefit,” she said, “including command leaders and military chaplains.”

As a result of their participation, one continuing education credit will be granted for those who seek it. “We will also provide certificates of participation for those who need them,” LaMorie added.

The webinar can be accessed at www.taps.org/professionaleducation.

“One of the key things we will address in the webinar is working with the surviving families to understand what they are facing,” said Bonnie Carroll, the program’s founder, who also was interviewed on ASY Live. “There is a need to understand when a certain individual needs professional attention.”

TAPS is looking to continue to provide educational courses like this in the future, she said, planning for one every quarter.

TAPS is specifically geared toward providing ongoing emotional health hope and healing to all those who are grieving the loss of a loved one in military service to America, she said. By calling a toll-free number, 800-959-TAPS (800-959-8277), grieving family members can connect to peer-based emotional support, crisis care, casualty casework assistance, and grief and trauma resources and information in local communities across the nation, Carroll said.

(Jamie Findlater works in the New Media directorate of the Defense Media Activity.)

Related Sites:
Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors
“ASY Live” on BlogTalkRadio.com

Iraqi air force pilots conduct aeromedical mission

Iraqi air force pilots conduct aeromedical mission

 

An Iraqi UH-1H Iroquois "Huey" helicopter and an Iraqi Mi-17 Hip helicopter prepare to transport a wounded Iraqi servicemember from Joint Base Balad, Iraq, to Forward Operating Base Gabe in Baqubah, Iraq, Nov. 21. The servicemember arrived at the Air Force Theater Hospital at Joint Base Balad Nov. 16 with a gunshot wound to his leg. The Iraqi air force is developing its aeromedical evacuation capabilities to take on a greater role in transporting its patients. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Jason Epley) Download HiRes

11/24/2008 - JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq (AFNS) -- Iraqi airmen conducted an aeromedical evacuation mission from here Nov. 21, ferrying an Iraqi servicemember injured in combat from the Air Force Theater Hospital here to Forward Operating Base Gabe in Baqubah, Iraq.

"Aeromedical evacuation is crucial to the viability of the Iraqi air force," said Col. (Dr.) Paul Young, the Coalition Air Forces Training Team surgeon general and director of Iraqi Air Forces Aeromedical Services Training. "We're here in an advisory role to help the Iraqi air force create an aeromedical evacuation program that they're comfortable with and one that works for them."

The patient arrived at the hospital Nov. 16 with a gunshot wound to his leg. Surgeons stabilized him and treated him in the intermediate care ward until he was ready to transport. An ambulance carried the patient to the flightline here, where American and Iraqi airmen loaded him into a waiting Mi-17 Hip helicopter.

This aeromedical evacuation mission follows a visit from two Iraq Ministry of Defense doctors to the hospital and to the Contingency Aeromedical Staging Facility here recently to study U.S. Air Force aeromedical evacuation procedures as the Iraqi air force continues to re-establish its own aeromedical evacuation service.

Cpl Moses Cardenas, Silver Star, USMC, Iraq, Fullerton, CA

Moses Cardenas

On one hot August morning near Rawah, Iraq, Lance Corporal Moses Cardenas of the Marines 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion found his platoon barraged by an insurgent suicide bomb, numerous rocket-propelled grenades, and heavy machine gun fire. In the chaotic moments that followed, Cardenas would have to decide between attempting the rescue of his wounded sergeant or remain in his covered position until reinforcements arrived. The choice was simple.

Cardenas thought, "He was my sergeant; I had to do something," and with that he courageously charged 50 meters through the kill-zone to his wounded comrade. Running the gauntlet through enemy fire, he was shot in the neck by the spray of weapons’ fire. Undeterred, he arrived at Sgt. Randy Roedema’s exposed position and performed first-aid to stop the flow of blood from Roedema’s severe wounds.

With both Marines wounded and under the sights of numerous insurgents, Cardenas knew if he was to save his friend he must evacuate both of them to safety. With his M249 Squad Automatic Weapon charged and a grip on his injured sergeant, Cardenas rotated between firing his machine gun and pulling Roedema across the battlefield. Reaching the relative safety of his platoon’s convoy, Cardenas continued laying down suppressive fire until the situation came under control and medics could tend to the wounded Marines.

Cardenas was awarded the Silver Star, the third highest military award. Roedema would later reflect "I owe him my life." Four days after Cardenas saved his life, Roedema’s wife gave birth to their first child – a child that will have a father because of the selfless act preformed by Cardenas on that summer morning in Iraq.

Hometown: Fullerton, CA

Awarded: Silver Star

Interviews:

• Apr. 23, 2008 – CBC (9.3 MB)
• Apr. 23, 2008 – AM 570 KVI (8.5 MB)
• http://www.defenselink.mil/heroes/profiles/cardenasM.html

War In Afghanistan Daily News - November 25, 2008

Coalition Kills Seven Militants, Hit Taliban Bomb Network American Forces Press Service KABUL, Afghanistan, Nov. 24, 2008 – Coalition forces killed seven armed militants yesterday during an operation to disrupt Taliban roadside bomb and foreign-fighter networks in eastern Afghanistan, military officials reported. Coalition forces targeted one of Ghazni province’s alleged senior Taliban commanders believed responsible for directing roadside bombs and other attacks in the region. The commander allegedly facilitated the movement of foreign fighters, weapons and bomb-making materials into the province. After coalition forces reached the targeted building, they instructed the people inside to surrender. A woman and two children exited the building peacefully. As coalition forces attempted to safeguard the local residents, militants barricaded inside the compound attacked forces with small-arms fire and hand grenades. Coalition forces returned fire killing the seven armed militants inside. The woman and children were moved to a safe location. Inside the compound, forces seized machine guns, AK-47 rifles, grenades and roadside bomb-making materials. (Compiled from a U.S. Forces Afghanistan news release.)

Related Sites: U.S. Forces Afghanistan

Team Brings Reliable Electricity to Afghan Village By Army Capt. Dustin Hart American Forces Press Service BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan, Nov. 25, 2008 – Members of the provincial reconstruction team in Afghanistan’s Nangarhar province joined residents of Qasaba village during a ribbon-cutting ceremony for a newly installed electric transformer Nov. 22. The PRT funded the $35,000 project, which will provide a more constant power source to more than 3,000 people in the small village outside the team’s base near Jalalabad. “This was a great project to be a part of, because it allows us to directly help the people who live near us,” said Air Force Capt. Lisa Leon, lead engineer for the PRT. “It lets us return some of the hospitality that has been shown to us so far." The village had only limited access to electricity prior to the project, but the new transformer will allow the villagers to power their shops, machinery and homes. “[The PRT] did a good job on this transformer, and the people are really appreciative for the help,” said Ataullah, a young Qasaba villager, during the ceremony. The increased power is especially helpful for the young people of the village, he said, because they now have more power for educational and recreational items such as computers, televisions and radios. Helping to improve the Afghan people’s lives is what the PRT’s mission is all about, Leon said. “The village had unreliable power before, but now they can flip a switch and know that the lights will work,” she said. “That's the impact the Afghan government and PRT are working toward here, and I am so happy I could be a part of this." (Army Capt. Dustin Hart of the 1st Infantry Division’s 3rd Brigade Combat Team serves with the Nangarhar Provincial Reconstruction Team.)

Related Sites: U.S. Forces Afghanistan

Investment in Afghanistan Makes Economic Sense, Gates Says By Donna Miles American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Nov. 24, 2008 – Tough economic times are no excuse for the international community to withhold support for Afghanistan, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates told reporters returning with him Nov. 21 from a two-day defense ministerial in Nova Scotia, Canada. Gates called it shortsighted for some to consider cutting troop support or funding in Afghanistan, particularly in light of the threats that remain there. “They’ll have to weigh the consequences of not doing it,” he told reporters. The secretary said during a news conference in Cornwallis, Canada, that Afghanistan poses “some significant challenges,” with insurgents finding sanctuary in the western border area and new recruits joining the insurgency during the past two years. A key to countering this, he said, is to continue going after the Taliban, al-Qaida and other threats while building Afghan security forces so they can assume full responsibility for the country’s security. NATO is building a trust fund to underwrite the effort and nearly doubling the Afghan security forces to 134,000 members. Despite its estimated $17 billion price tag, Gates called it a solid investment. “There is a huge disproportion between what it costs to train and equip an Afghan soldier and what it costs to put an American soldier in Afghanistan, trained and equipped and sustained,” he said. “It is an order of many orders of magnitude, [and that’s] true of other countries as well.” Ultimately, he said, it’s in everyone’s best interest to speed up the process in building up the Afghan national security forces. “Over the long term, your interests in getting out [of Afghanistan] are served by making a contribution to expanding the Afghan army.” Gates said during a NATO defense ministerial last month in Bucharest, Hungary, that he encountered no “push-back” on either the expansion of the Afghan National Army or creation of a NATO trust fund to help pay for it. “I think there is a broad understanding that, ultimately, the expansion of the Afghan security forces is everybody’s ticket out of there,” he told reporters. Canadian Defense Minister Peter MacKay, who hosted last week’s meeting, reiterated the call for other NATO countries to support the effort through trainers, equipment or funding. “Other countries should be under no illusion,” MacKay said. “We are still asking for them to pick up the slack and share the burden.”

Related Sites: U.S. Forces Afghanistan Related Articles: Gates Optimistic Troop Surge Will Ensure Smooth Afghan Election Gates to Meet With Allies, Discuss Afghanistan Mission Ministers Approve Drug Network Attacks, Increasing Alliance Readiness

 

Tri-partite executive steering group holds quarterly meeting

25 Nov. - Members of the Tri-Partite Executive Steering Group gathered Nov. 24 for a quarterly meeting held in the conference room of the recently opened Khyber Border Coordination Center in Nangarhar, Afghanistan.

Twenty-five General Officers from the militaries of Afghanistan and Pakistan, along with forces deployed to International Security Assistance Force Headquarters and Regional Command East, gathered to discuss, among other issues, the joint military operations along the borders of Afghanistan and Pakistan.

“We are here to discuss and optimize our coordinated efforts to jointly strike at the heart of terrorism, particularly from the borders of these brother countries,” said Major General Michael S. Tucker, ISAF Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations, while addressing attending officials.

Members of the Afghan Border Police, the Afghan National Army, the Pakistani Army and coalition forces operating out of ISAF Regional Command East in Bagram work together to prevent border crossings from insurgents attacking targets in Afghanistan and from escaping back into Pakistan. The quarterly meetings are held to update the forces on operational developments.

“This meeting could not happen without desire from all sides,” Major General Jeff Schloesser, ISAF Regional Command East Commander, said. “The desire is to see our goals of peace succeed, by working hand in hand with our brothers and friends.”

One woman’s fight against breast cancer

24 Nov. - Imagine a dark world ruled by the Taliban. A place where women were subjected to hiding, dressing a certain way, were banned from employment. They had limited medical treatment because male doctors were prohibited from treating women, and were banned from education.

And in this dark world was a light. A woman who fought to educate the young girls of Afghanistan by holding ‘hidden secret schools.’  Now this same women who fought to keep the women of Afghanistan literate, is fighting a new battle. A fight for her life. A women’s fight. A fight against breast cancer.

Naheed is an education director in a non profit organization that oversees several projects including education, orphanages, physical and mental rehabilitation. 

Naheed has worked in education for eight years developing and supporting hidden schools for women during the Taliban Era and more recently, she manages 21 village schools in Paghman.  She has also just recently completed the implementation of a literacy program that serves more than 700 people in 20 villages and includes an early childhood development component, as well as accelerated learning.

She is loving, a true educator and an essential part of the team. She has done everything possible to help launch the “Healthy Afghan Girls Program” in local schools including knocking on doors at the Ministry of Education for permission to conduct the program.

She has worked in education since the late 1990s when she taught an underground school for girls. She has incredible stories of nearly being caught by the Taliban, where the penalty could have been death.

“One time my brother was taking me to a class and the Taliban stopped the car,” said Naheed. “They asked my brother if I was his wife, and he said I was his sister and we were going to a relative’s house. I had a lot of school papers under my seat and if the Taliban would have searched the car, that would have been bad. It was very dangerous.”

The reason Naheed risked her own life was because she believes in education.

“I graduated from the University of Kabul and taught Math, Islam and Dari,” said Naheed, with a smile. “I would teach classes during the Taliban and I also supervised the classes. Education is important for the future mothers of Afghanistan.”

But Naheed has been diagnosed with stage four breast cancer with involvement with her lymph nodes and her bones. She had contacts through her work and was able to receive chemotherapy in India, but this was very expensive. It was paid for by the charity of the people that work with her.

“I went to the doctor in India and he came in one morning and told me something very important,” said Naheed. “He said, ‘I have the results,’ and I said, ‘cancer,’ and he said, ‘yes.’ I was in shock. He told me not worry and I told him I never worry. I am just thinking about my mother and my sister.”

There is no cancer care in Afghanistan. Most people here that are diagnosed with cancer are in already in a very advanced stage and receive no care. They are truly left to die. Women have a worse situation because of the scarcity of female doctors, and it is shameful for them to be examined by a male physician.

“Their medical care is significantly behind the rest of the world, especially for women,” said U.S. Navy Cmdr. Rex A. Kiteley, an International Security Assistance Force medical and reconstruction development officer.  “Females will only see female physicians and there is a scarcity of female physicians here. And that’s due to that fact that women’s education was put on hold during Taliban Era. You have women who could have went on to be physicians, but were held back.”

“If the Taliban Era never happened and women were allowed to receive education, she may have well been receiving the proper care,” added the Annapolis, Md., native. “If you don’t educate these young women, you are not going to have the kind of people you need to have this country move ahead. A country with medical care, is a more stable care.”

Kiteley took an interest into Naheed because her story is a familiar one—a story close to his heart. His mother was diagnosed with cancer over a year ago and sadly passed away while he was in Afghanistan.

“She reminds me of my mom,” said Kiteley. “My mom was an educator her entire life and that was important to her and I think meeting Naheed was right after that. I don’t think that was a coincidence. Naheed is a very special women, just like my mom.”

Naheed is scheduled to go to the National Cancer Institute Hospital in Bethesda Md., for radiation treatment. But, Kiteley said she still needs other kinds of treatment and he is working on it.

“There are two ways to look at it. What would happen if she stays here and what would happen if she goes for treatment in the States?” said Kiteley. “If she stays here, they could probably get her more chemotherapy in India. I don’t think she would get any other care and her cancer would continue to grow and cost her her life in a year or two.

“If she were able to get to the States as she is going to, the radiation will help relieve the pain in her lower hip because the cancer has spread to her bones there. What is most important is hormonal therapy. She will also need to have her left breast removed. If she were to receive that, hopefully she could live five to 10 years and maybe even longer. It is a similar situation to Sen. John Edward’s wife.”

If the treatments go well, Naheed has bright plans for the future. “I would like to go back to teaching,” said the strong-willed Naheed.

Because of women like Naheed, young women were educated even during the darkest times for her country. And hopefully with Kiteley’s help, she can get back to doing what she loves - being a light to the women of Afghanistan.

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

Ask ISAF—do you have a question for ISAF?

24 Nov. - KABUL, Afghanistan — There is a great deal of interest in ISAF, both from members of the media based here in Afghanistan and those abroad.

24 Nov. - ISAF serviceman killed in southern Afghanistan

24 Nov. - Child injured by ISAF vehicle in Kama District

KABUL, Afghanistan – An International Security Assistance Force vehicle struck a child in the Kama District of Nangarhar province today.

The child was given immediate medical attention and was evacuated with a family member to a U.S. military facility for further treatment.

The child’s current condition is stable.
“It is always a tragedy when civilians are injured, especially when they are children,” said Col. John Spiszer, Commander, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division. 

“We regret the situation and are providing the child with the best medical care we have available.”

The incident is under investigation.

24 Nov. - Two civilians injured in traffic accident with ISAF vehicle

War In Iraq Daily News - November 25, 2008

Iraqi National Police Strive to Serve, Protect Baghdad's Residents

Tuesday, 25 November 2008

FORWARD OPERATING BASE FALCON — The Iraqi National Police, dedicated to enforcing Baghdad’s rule of law, introduced civil capacity and municipality improvement to their skills set working with the support of Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers.

As the situation in the Rashid District continues to progress towards tolerance and tranquility, the role of his national police element should adjust accordingly, said Col. Kadhem Jabar Kadhem, commander of the 2nd Battalion, 7th Brigade, 2nd National Police Div., based in southern Baghdad.

A Civil Affairs Team from Company D, 404th Civil Affairs Battalion, attached to the 1st Special Troops Battalion, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, sponsored the Iraqi team, consisting of a lieutenant and two privates from the 2nd Bn., 7th Iraqi NP Bde.

Capt. Chris Carbone and Sgt. 1st Class Aleksandr Restrepo, head of the Civil Affairs Team assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 4th Infantry Regiment, attached to the 1st BCT, 4th Inf. Div., lead the program in Baghdad’s Doura community.

Carbone, a U.S. Army Reservist, who is also a police officer from Wayne, N.J., has served two previous tours in Iraq as an infantry officer. He recently completed training and gained practical experience as a civil affairs officer during his current deployment.

“There is more to being a cop than arresting people,” Carbone told the freshly formed Iraqi NP CA Team during a partnered patrol Nov. 20. “You have to work towards the betterment of your community.”

The Iraqis nodded their heads, excited to put to use the skills they recently acquired during the two-day lecture series on providing assistance to infrastructure repair and municipality support.

Carbone had arranged an audience with Hashem Mahmood, the deputy chairman of the Rashid District Council, and Neighborhood Council representatives from across the Rashid District.

Carbone explained to the Iraqi politicians that this NP CA Team did not constitute a stand-alone element. They are intended to be facilitators and enablers of the existing municipal agencies.

“They are here to work with you and assist you,” Carbone said, in talking to the district and neighborhood leaders.

The Rashid District Council deputy chairman said that he understood the intent and liked the idea.

“The Neighborhood Council and the national police are like brothers, and these men will be like a tool for cooperation between them,” Hashem summarized.

The Neighborhood Council representatives agreed.

“In this area, work can never be successful without help from the National Police,” said Kyse Abbas Hamad, one of the NC representatives. “I am happy to help the national police with anything they need. I will be available to support them at all times.”

Carbone and Restrepo also consulted Hayder Yassen Sahi, the Rashid District Infrastructure manager, on the program.

“I think it is a good idea,” Hayder responded. “I already have a cooperative relationship with the national police, and they are doing a good job assisting me in collecting taxes.”

For their first assignment, the NP CA Team evaluated the classrooms and bathrooms of a local elementary school to assess the institution’s condition. The veteran U.S. Civil Affairs Soldiers pointed out important details that would require attention, such as deteriorating stairs and improper placement of water faucets.

They also explained how certain things, such as new chalk boards, could be attained relatively easily through the Iraq Ministry of Education. The NP CA Team also called attention to additional issues that could be quickly adjudicated.

“The program is a reflection of the growth process of this country,” said Restrepo, who hails from Brooklyn, N.Y. “These national policemen are doing something for their community, which has to begin at the root level. It is great to see the security forces of Iraq develop the future of their country.”

Feature Stories

Micro-grants Help Ecomomic Growth, Support Citizens in New Baghdad

FORWARD OPERATING BASE LOYALTY — During the past year, United States forces have helped to stimulate the Iraqi economy through issuing micro-grants to eastern Baghdad businesses. As of Nov. 16, Company C, 2nd Battalion, 30th Infantry, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division alone has processed 20 applications and handed out nearly $395,000 in the New Baghdad district, said 1st Lt. Grant White, a Co. C platoon leader. There are at least 25 more applications still going through the investigations process, he explained.

 

Iraqi Soldiers Continue to Donate, Send Aid to California Fire Victims

BESMAYA RANGE COMPLEX — A group of Iraqi Soldiers stepped up to help California residents victimized by recent wildfires raging throughout the state. Iraqi Army Col. Abbas Fadhil, Besmaya Range Complex commander, and his team of “Abbas’ Eagles” raised $500 for wildfire relief. “We want to send a message to the American president and the American people,” Abbas said. “We feel that we are a family — one body. When one part of the body suffers, the other parts suffer, too.”

 

Iraqi Villagers Anticipate Clean Water for First Time

THI QAR PROVINCE — Families in a small village north of Nasiriyah are anxiously awaiting the completion of a water treatment facility that will provide them a local source of clean drinking water for the first time ever. Approximately 1,500 residents live in the Al Shofa neighborhood, which will be served by the new 50-cubic-meter-per-hour facility.

Interactive Iraq :: Video News
Iraqi Freedom Minute, Nov. 24 •This edition features a story on the significant duty of air traffic controllers in Taji. Watch Now

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Freedom Journal Iraq, Nov. 24 •This edition features stories on the Iraqi National Police recruits undergoing training and Soldiers visiting with local Iraqi families to build and measure relations. Watch Now

Monday, 24 November 2008

New brigade ready to fight the enemies of Iraq

Best Friends

Monday, 24 November 2008	GoI holds National Command and Control Exercise
Monday, 24 November 2008	IA visits Tal Zallat neighborhood, provides food, clothing to residents

Go Team!

Monday, 24 November 2008	3 wounded in IED attack, NPs detain 1
Monday, 24 November 2008	Terrorist networks degraded with capture of 18 individuals

BAGHDAD – Coalition forces captured five suspected terrorists and detained 13 additional suspects during operations targeting al-Qaeda in Iraq around the country Sunday and Monday.

One suspected terrorist was captured during an operation Sunday in Baghdad.  The targeted terrorist is believed to be a media operations leader.  During a follow-on operation Monday in Baghdad targeting the wanted man’s network, one additional suspect was detained.

Monday in Ramadi, 100 km northwest of Baghdad, Coalition forces captured one suspected terrorist believed to have connections with regional terrorist leaders.  Two additional suspects were detained as well.

An operation in Karmah, 41 km west of Baghdad, netted one wanted man as Coalition forces targeted terrorist leadership networks in that region.

Another operation in Karmah resulted in the capture of one wanted man and two additional suspects.  The wanted man, who is believed to be involved with improvised explosive device attacks in the city, identified himself as the targeted terrorist and surrendered to Coalition forces.  The suspected terrorist identified another man at the scene of the operation as one of his associates and then led Coalition forces to a secondary location where he identified another of his associates.

A suspected terrorist assessed to be a Mosul-based AQI leader was captured Monday in Mosul along with one of his alleged associates.

In Baghdad, four men were detained during an operation targeting AQI’s IED and suicide vest cells.

Coalition forces detained three suspects Monday in Rawah, 212 km southwest of Mosul.  The target of the operation was an individual believed to be involved with foreign terrorist facilitation networks.

Being Constructive

Monday, 24 November 2008

ISF captures a suspected terrorist in Mosul raid

MOSUL, Iraq – Iraqi Security Forces captured a suspected terrorist in Mosul Nov. 22, bringing the number of terrorists captured this week to 31.

During an ISF-led intelligence-driven raid at approximately 10 p.m., Iraqi Army soldiers from the 1st Battalion, 7th Brigade, 2nd IA Division, and Soldiers with the 1st Battalion, 8th Infantry Regiment, captured a suspected terrorist in the Al Intisar neighborhood and took the individual into custody.

“Terrorists are feeling the pressure of the ISF, and they are running out of places to hide in and around Mosul,” said Maj. Gary Dangerfield, Coalition spokesperson in Ninewa province.

Sweet Police

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
 
Sgt 1st Class Miguel A. Wilson, 36, of Bonham, Texas, died Nov. 21 in Abu Sayf, Iraq, of injuries sustained during a rescue attempt of another soldier while their unit was conducting a dismounted reconnaissance mission. He was assigned to the 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, Fort Hood, Texas.
 
The incident remains under investigation.
 
For more information media may contact the Fort Hood public affairs office at (254) 287-9993 or 254-287-2520; after hours (254) 291-2591.

Nov. 23 airpower summary

Nov. 23 airpower summary: F-15Es provide armed overwatch

An F-15E Strike Eagle in-flight over Afghanistan providing overwatch in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. The Strike Eagle is assigned to the 391st Expeditionary Fighter Squadron, Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Aaron Allmon) Download HiRes

11/24/2008 - SOUTHWEST ASIA (AFNS) -- Coalition airpower integrated with coalition ground forces in Iraq and International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan during operations Nov. 23, 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 emplacing improvised explosive devices in the vicinity of Gardez. The mission was confirmed a success by an on-scene joint terminal attack controller.

Near Sheykhabad, an Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle and an A-10 conducted shows of force to deter enemy activities and provide armed aerial overwatch for a coalition convoy that struck an IED. The JTACs declared the missions successful.

Navy F/A-18F Super Hornets conducted shows of force to deter enemy activities in the vicinity of Tarin Kowt. The missions were reported a success by the JTACs.

Coalition aircraft conducted shows of force to deter enemy fighters who were digging in the side of the road and emplacing improvised explosive devices in the vicinity of Qurya. A JTAC confirmed the mission successful.

In the vicinity of Lowkhi and Kabul, coalition aircraft conducted shows of force to deter enemy activities. The missions were declared a success by the JTACs.

A Navy F/A-18A Hornet and an F-15E performed shows of force and provided armed aerial overwatch to deter anti-Afghan forces from firing at coalition forces who were conducting operations in the vicinity of Gereshk and near Monari. The JTACs reported the missions successful.

In total, 71 close-air-support missions were flown in support of the ISAF and Afghan security forces, reconstruction activities and route patrols.

Fifteen 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, an Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon conducted a show of force and provided armed aerial overwatch for a coalition convoy conducting operations near Baghdad. A JTAC confirmed the mission successful.

In total, coalition aircraft flew 45 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-nine 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 150 airlift sorties were flown, more than 400 tons of cargo were delivered and nearly 3,100 passengers were transported. This included approximately 80,000 pounds of troop resupply airdropped in Afghanistan.

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

On Nov. 22, Air Force and coalition tanker crews flew 46 sorties and off-loaded approximately 3.2 million pounds of fuel to 264 receiving aircraft.

Mannheim Steamroller Spreads Cheer to Troops With CD Giveaway

CD Giveaway Spreads Cheer to Troops, Families

By Sharon Foster
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 24, 2008 – Mannheim Steamroller, the recording group famous for putting a new twist on traditional Christmas music, is hoping to spread holiday cheer to the military this season by giving away 1 million CDs to troops and their families.

The group and its creator, Chip Davis, have started giving away copies of its multiple Christmas CDs to troops at home and abroad. The group also is giving away copies of its children’s pop-up book, “My Little Christmas Tree.”

“Throughout the years, I have had the opportunity to work with many in the armed services,” Davis said. “This is my expression of gratitude for their efforts and sacrifices, especially during this season.”

A special effort is being made by the group to distribute CDs and pop-up books to Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington, D.C.; Brooke Army Medical Center, San Antonio; National Naval Medical Center, Bethesda, Md. and other facilities that care for wounded troops. Distribution of CDs also will take place at military bases.

CDs already have been distributed to more than 40 USO locations, including the European and Pacific commands -- reaching troops in Germany, Japan and Korea.

In addition to the CD giveaway, several wounded servicemembers and their families will be special guests at Mannheim Steamrollers’ Christmas concerts throughout December.

Freedom Alliance, a Virginia-based group that honors military service, has chosen a "veteran family" that will join Davis and his group for an all-expense-paid trip Dec. 6 to Universal Studios in Orlando, Fla., for "Grinchmas,” a live musical performance of “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.”

Davis, who has been quoted as describing his style of music as "18th century classical rock ’n’ roll," has a long history of working with the military. Last year his group partnered with the Veterans of Foreign Wars Foundation to donate Christmas CDs to military servicemembers and their families.

Mannheim Steamroller’s “Christmas Live” show will be re-broadcast on the Pentagon Channel this year.

"I am committed to continuing this support of the military,” Davis said. “Hopefully our Christmas music will create a sense of home for the holidays for the men and women of the U.S. armed forces. It is also important to us to share the sounds of the season with all those who keep our country safe."

Policy change allows experienced Soldiers to serve longer

Policy change allows experienced Soldiers to serve longer

Nov 21, 2008
BY C. Todd Lopez

A recent extension of retention control points means Soldiers in the rank of staff sergeant and above will be allowed to serve the Army longer, should they desire. Photo by Staff Sgt. Jacob N. Bailey

WASHINGTON (Army News Service, Nov. 21, 2008) -- A recent extension of retention control points means Soldiers in the rank of staff sergeant and above will be allowed to serve the Army longer, should they desire.

An All Army Activities message, or ALARACT, dated Nov. 8, spelled out the changes to retention control points. The changes, which became effective Nov. 1, increase RCPs for E-6s and above by as many as three years in some cases. The ALARACT also changes the maximum age for enlisted Soldiers to 62 years.

The increase in RCP -- called "high year of tenure" in the Air Force and Navy -- is a force-shaping measure meant to allow experienced noncommissioned officers to stay in the Army longer.

"This is not designed to address any specific shortage," said Master Sgt. Patrick Johnson, retention operations NCO with Army G-1 at the Pentagon. "Rather, it is to provide an avenue for our experienced NCOs to stay in longer if they wish, and to stabilize the force longer. It's good for the Army and good for readiness."

The change to RCP applies to active-duty Army Soldiers and to reserve-component Soldiers in the Active Guard Reserve program. Changes have been made to the RCP for Soldiers in the grade of E-6 and above, and include:

• Staff Sergeant, 23 years
• Staff Sergeant (Promotable), 26 years
• Sergeant First Class, 26 years
• Sergeant First Class (Promotable), 29 years
• First Sergeant/Master Sergeant, 29 years
• First Sergeant/Master Sergeant (Promotable), 32 years
• Command Sergeant Major/SGM, 32 years

The RCP defines the maximum time a Soldier may stay in the Army at a certain rank. For instance, the RCP for a promotable staff sergeant is now 26 years -- up from 24.

If a Soldier in the rank of staff sergeant has served 26 years and hasn't been promoted to sergeant first class, he or she must retire. The ALARACT additionally says a Soldier must leave Army service at the time of their RCP or age 62, whichever of the two comes first.

Johnson said that the change to the RCP does not mean a Soldier must now stay in the Army longer. In fact, Soldiers may apply for retirement any time after becoming eligible.

The original ALARACT message follows:

ALARACT 267/2008

ALARACT 267/2008 - CHANGE TO RETENTION CONTROL POINTS (RCP) AND AGE REQUIREMENT FOR ENLISTED SOLDIERS SERVING IN THE REGULAR AR

UNCLASSIFIED//

PRECEDENCE TO: ROUTINE
DTG: 080025Z NOV 08
SUBJECT: ALARACT 267/2008 - CHANGE TO RETENTION CONTROL POINTS (RCP) AND AGE REQUIREMENT FOR ENLISTED SOLDIERS SERVING IN THE REGULAR AR

UNCLASSIFIED//

THIS MESSAGE HAS BEEN SENT BY THE PENTAGON TELECOMMUNICATIONS CENTER ON BEHALF OF DA WASHINGTON DC//DAPE-MPE//.

SUBJECT: CHANGE TO RETENTION CONTROL POINTS (RCP) AND AGE REQUIREMENT FOR ENLISTED SOLDIERS SERVING IN THE REGULAR ARMY OR UNDER THE ACTIVE GUARD RESERVE (AGR) PROGRAM

REFERENCES:

A. ARMY REGULATION 135-18, THE ACTIVE GUARD RESERVE (AGR) PROGRAM, 1 NOV 04.

B. ARMY REGULATION 140-111, THE U.S. ARMY RESERVE REENLISTMENT PROGRAM, 16 FEB 06.

C. ARMY REGULATION 601-280, ARMY RETENTION PROGRAM, 31 JAN 06.

D. NATIONAL GUARD REGULATION (NGR) 600-200, ENLISTED PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT, 1 MAR 97.

E. DAPE-MPE MESSAGE DTG: 081402Z JUL 04, SUBJ: IMPLEMENTATION OF RCPS FOR TITLE 10 ARNG AGR ENLISTED SOLDIERS, 8 JUL 2004.

1. THE PURPOSE OF THIS POLICY MEMORANDUM IS TO IMPLEMENT RETENTION CONTROL POINTS (RCPS) AND AGE REQUIREMENTS THAT ARE CONSISTENT FOR ENLISTED SOLDIERS SERVING ON ACTIVE DUTY ACROSS ALL ARMY COMPONENTS. THIS POLICY WILL APPLY TO SOLDIERS SERVING IN THE REGULAR ARMY (RA), AND TO SOLDIERS OF THE ARMY RESERVE (AR) OR ARMY NATIONAL GUARD OF THE UNITED STATES (ARNGUS) WHO ARE SERVING UNDER THE ACTIVE GUARD RESERVE (AGR) PROGRAM. THIS POLICY DOES NOT APPLY TO SOLDIERS SERVING IN THE AR OR ARNG WHO ARE MOBILIZED, ASSIGNED TO THE INDIVIDUAL READY RESERVE (IRR), MAN DAY STATUS (M-DAY), OR A TROOP PROGRAM UNIT (TPU).

2. EFFECTIVE 1 NOVEMBER 2008, RA AND AGR SOLDIERS MAY PERFORM ACTIVE SERVICE (SEE NOTE 1) UP TO THEIR RETENTION CONTROL POINT (RCP) OR AGE 62, WHICHEVER OCCURS FIRST. SOLDIERS MAY NOT EXCEED THE RCP AS SHOWN BELOW, BY MORE THAN ONE MONTH.

ARMY RETENTION CONTROL POINTS
GRADE........TOTAL ACTIVE SERVICE IN YEARS
PVT-PFC..................................8
CPL/SPC.................................10
CPL/SPC (PROMOTABLE)....................15
SGT.....................................15
SGT (PROMOTABLE)........................20
SSG.....................................23
SSG (PROMOTABLE) (SEE NOTE 2)...........26
SFC.....................................26
SFC (PROMOTABLE)........................29
1SG/MSG (SEE NOTE 3)....................29
1SG/MSG (PROMOTABLE)....................32
CSM/SGM (SEE NOTE 4)....................32


NOTES:
1. SERVICE ON ACTIVE DUTY OR FULL-TIME NATIONAL GUARD DUTY (GLOSSARY, AR 135-18).
2. THE RCP FOR SOLDIERS IN THE GRADES OF SSG(P) AND ABOVE WHO ARE ASSIGNED TO SPECIAL BANDS (WEST POINT BAND, THE ARMY BAND, THE FIFE AND DRUM CORPS, AND THE ARMY FIELD BAND) DIFFERS FROM THE ABOVE TABLE. THEY ARE: SSG(P) AND SFC 30 YEARS; SFC(P) AND 1SG/MSG 33 YEARS; AND 1SG/MSG(P) AND CSM/SGM 35 YEARS.
3. MASTER SERGEANTS SELECTED TO ATTEND THE USASMC ARE AUTHORIZED TO SERVE UP TO 32 YEARS.
4. COMMAND SERGEANTS MAJOR AND SERGEANTS MAJOR SERVING IN NOMINATIVE POSITIONS WHERE THE OFFICER IS A GENERAL OFFICER OR SENIOR EXECUTIVE SERVICE (SES) EQUIVALENT (OR SERVING AS COMMAND SERGEANT MAJOR, USA SERGEANTS MAJOR ACADEMY OR EXECUTIVE OFFICER TO THE SERGEANT MAJOR OF THE ARMY) ARE AUTHORIZED TO SERVE UP TO 35 YEARS.

3. SOLDIERS NOT SERVING ON AN INDEFINITE REENLISTMENT, WHO REACH THEIR RCP DURING THEIR CURRENT ENLISTMENT AGREEMENT THROUGH LENGTH OF SERVICE, REDUCTION IN GRADE, OR BY REMOVAL FROM A PROMOTION LIST (EITHER VOLUNTARY OR INVOLUNTARY) WILL PERFORM ACTIVE SERVE UNTIL THEIR CONTRACTED EXPIRATION TERM OF SERVICE (ETS), UNLESS THEY ARE SEPARATED EARLIER UNDER APPLICABLE ADMINISTRATIVE, PHYSICAL DISABILITY, OR UNIFORM CODE OF MILITARY JUSTICE (UCMJ) SEPARATION PROVISIONS.

4. SOLDIERS SERVING ON AN INDEFINITE REENLISTMENT, WHO EXCEED THEIR RCP AS THE RESULT OF A REDUCTION IN GRADE, MAY PERFORM ACTIVE SERVICE UNTIL THE RCP FOR THE LOWER GRADE OR MINIMUM RETIREMENT ELIGIBILITY, WHICHEVER OCCURS LATER, UNLESS THEY ARE SEPARATED EARLIER UNDER APPLICABLE ADMINISTRATIVE, PHYSICAL DISABILITY OR UCMJ SEPARATION PROVISIONS. SOLDIERS WHO HAVE BETWEEN 18 AND 20 YEARS OF ACTIVE SERVICE MAY NOT BE SEPARATED UNLESS THE CONVENING AUTHORITY RECOMMENDS DISCHARGE AND THE ASSISTANT SECRETARY OF THE ARMY (MANPOWER & RESERVE AFFAIRS) HAS MADE A FINAL DETERMINATION IN SUCH CASES.

5. SOLDIERS WITH A PENDING OR APPROVED RETIREMENT MAY REQUEST WITHDRAWAL OF THEIR RETIREMENT APPLICATION AND CONTINUE SERVING TO THE NEWLY ESTABLISHED RCP. ACTION TO WITHDRAW PENDING OR APPROVED RETIREMENTS AS A RESULT OF THE ANNOUNCED RCP CHANGES MUST BE FINALIZED NO LATER THAN 30 NOVEMBER 2008.

6. THE THREE-YEAR PROBATIONARY PERIOD POLICY FOR ALL AGR PROGRAM SOLDIERS REMAINS IN EFFECT.

7. ////

8. EXPIRATION DATE CANNOT BE DETERMINED.

===============================================================

UNCLASSIFIED//

PVT Gray decided Not to Be One of the Honorable

Army Schedules Date for Execution of Pvt. Ronald A. Gray

Nov 20, 2008

The Army has scheduled the execution of Pvt. Ronald A. Gray for Dec. 10, 2008, at the Federal Correctional Complex in Terre Haute, Indiana. In 1988, a court-martial panel sitting at Fort Bragg, N.C., convicted Pvt. Gray by unanimous vote of committing crimes in 1986 and 1987 in the Fayetteville, N.C. area -- to include two murders, an attempted murder, and three rapes. The court-martial panel sentenced him to death for these crimes.

The Secretary of the Army directed that Pvt. Gray be executed by lethal injection, and the Army will be responsible for conducting the execution at the Terre Haute facility based on an agreement with the Bureau of Prisons.

Only the President, as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, can approve the execution of a death sentence [Article 71(a), Uniform Code of Military Justice]. On July 28, 2008, the President approved the death sentence in the case of the United States v Ronald A. Gray. The President took action following completion of a full appellate process, which upheld the conviction and sentence to death. Two petitions to the U.S. Supreme Court were denied during the appellate processing of Pvt. Gray's case.

Pvt. Gray is currently housed in the U.S. Disciplinary Barracks, Fort Leavenworth, Kan.

- 30 -

Media Note: An advisory will be sent in the coming weeks to media representatives regarding the establishment of a media information center and procedures for applying to be a media pool witness to this execution.

MAJ Kim Campbell, Distinguished Flying Cross, USAF, San Jose, CA

 

Kim Campbell

The Story:

The A-10 Warthog may be one of the slowest, ugliest planes in the Air Force, but it's the best friend a soldier or Marine could have in a close fight. And it's the last thing an enemy ever wants to see – especially if the pilot’s call sign stands for “Killer Chick.”

On April 7, 2003, then-Capt. Campbell and her flight lead responded to a call for air support in downtown Baghdad, where an elite unit of the Iraqi Republican Guard had U.S. forces pinned against the Tigris River. Campbell and her wingman faced bad weather before they dove out of the sky and devastated the enemy with rockets and the Warthog’s feared 30mm Gatling gun. After successfully hitting their targets, the pilots turned back toward base – and that’s when Campbell’s jet was rocked by a large explosion, and immediately began pulling to the left and toward the ground. With numerous caution lights flashing, the one that worried Campbell the most was the hydraulic lights. A quick check confirmed her suspicions: Her hydraulic system had been fried. She would later discover that one of her engines was badly damaged and the fuselage was riddled with hundreds of bullet holes.

Campbell quickly switched to manual inversion, allowing her to fly her Warthog under mechanical control. She then had a decision: try to fly 300 miles back to base, or parachute into hostile territory. This was dicey terrain, so she decided she had to make the flight. Despite the heavily damaged aircraft and terrible weather – including massive dust storms – “Killer Chick” persevered. With the help of a seasoned pilot on her wing, Campbell landed safely back at base – fully prepared to take to the skies again and unleash the Warthog, as well as her moniker, on any opposing forces.

For her actions and bravery, Campbell was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for Heroism.

Hometown: San Jose, CA

Awarded: Distinguished Flying Cross

External Links:

• Air Force story
• Distinguished Flying Cross Society profile
• http://www.defenselink.mil/heroes/profiles/campbellK.html

WOTN Note: Forever in my mind and those that served with me will be voice of the A-10 Pilot named "Misty" who served in the skies of Afghanistan.

Nov. 22 airpower summary

Nov. 22 airpower summary: B-1B bombs anti-Afghan forces

A B-1B Lancer prepares to connect with a KC-135 Stratotanker refueling boom over the Indian Ocean. A B-1B like this one flew a close-air-support mission in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and bombed anti-Afghan forces. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Brian Ferguson) Download HiRes

11/23/2008 - SOUTHWEST ASIA (AFNS) -- Coalition airpower integrated with coalition ground forces in Iraq and International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan during operations Nov. 22, according to Combined Air and Space Operations Center officials here.

In Afghanistan, Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt IIs and Air Force F-15E Strike Eagles dropped guided bomb unit-31s, GBU-38s and fired cannon rounds onto anti-Afghan forces who were firing rocket-propelled grenades at coalition forces in the vicinity of Bari Kowt. The missions were confirmed a success by an on-scene joint terminal attack controllers.

Near Qalat, an Air Force B-1B Lancer dropped a GBU-31 onto anti-Afghan forces who were using small arms fire against Coalition forces conducting operations in the area. A JTAC declared the mission successful.

A Navy F/A-18F dropped a GBU-38 onto enemy forces hiding in a tree line firing mortars at coalition forces in the vicinity of Shurakian. A JTAC reported the mission successful.

Coalition aircraft conducted shows of force to deter enemy activities in the vicinity of Sangin and Bagram. The JTACs reported the missions successful.

In total, 67 close-air-support missions were flown in support of the ISAF and Afghan security forces, reconstruction activities and route patrols.

Thirteen 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, coalition aircraft flew 45 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-nine 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 3,400 passengers were transported. This included approximately 54,000 pounds of troop resupply airdropped in Afghanistan.

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

On Nov. 21, Air Force and coalition tanker crews flew 51 sorties and off-loaded approximately 3 million pounds of fuel to 254 receiving aircraft.

A Rare Meeting Between A Blood Donor and Patient

Lifesaving Airman, patient meet for first time

Lifesaving Airman, patient meet for first time

Lifesaving Airman, patient meet for first time

Lifesaving Airman, patient meet for first time

Lifesaving Airman, patient meet for first time

You Jin Pak gives Airman Tamarias Pope a hug as they meet for the first time Nov. 21 at Kunsan Air Base, South Korea. Airman Pope donated AB negative blood , which is rare among the South Korean population and specifically for Ms. Pak. The blood he donated ultimately saved her life. Airman Pope is assigned to the 8th Security Forces Squadron. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Gustavo Gonzalez)   Download Full Image | E-mail a friend

First Lt. Brad Brizek shows You Jin Pak the inteirior of an F-16 Fighting Falcon Nov. 21 at Kunsan Air Base, South Korea. An 8th Security Forces Squadron member donated AB negative blood, which is rare among the South Korean population and specifically for Ms. Pak. The blood he donated ultimately saved her life. Lieutenant Brizek is assigned to the 35th Fighter Squadron. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Gustavo Gonzalez)   Download Full Image | E-mail a friend

You Jin Pak and Airman Tamarias Pope are shown the exterior of an F-16 Fighting Falcon during Ms. Pak's Nov. 21 visit to Kunsan Air Base, South Korea. Airman Pope of the 8th Security Forces Squadron donated AB negative blood, which is rare among the South Korean population and specifically for Ms. Pak. The blood he donated ultimately saved her life. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Gustavo Gonzalez)   Download Full Image | E-mail a friend

Colonel J.D. Harris presents his commander's coins to Airman Tamarias Pope and You Jin Pak during her Nov. 21 visit to Kunsan Air Base, South Korea. Airman Pope of the 8th Security Forces Squadron donated AB negative blood, which is rare among the South Korean population and specifically for Ms. Pak. The blood he donated ultimately saved her life. Colonel Harris is the 8th Fighter Wing commander. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Gustavo Gonzalez)   Download Full Image

by Senior Airman Gustavo Gonzalez
8th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

11/24/2008 - KUNSAN AIR BASE, South Korea (AFNS)  -- A local South Korean woman and the Kunsan Air Base Airman whose blood donation saved her life met for the first time when she visited here Nov. 21.

Airman Tamarias Pope of the 8th Security Forces Squadron met up with 22-year-old You Jin Pak, allowing the 19-year-old Airman to put a face to the person his lifesaving donation reached.

"Meeting her was a really good experience," Airman Pope said. "Most people that give blood don't really get to meet the person that they saved. She looked healthy. She looked happy. That made me happy."

Airman Pope's role in helping Ms. Pak began Oct. 8 when Dr. Sung Kwang Park from the Chonbuk University Hospital in Jeonju, South Korea, called the 8th Medical Group here. Dr. Park had a patient in his care suffering from acute myeloid leukemia. She had recently undergone a bone marrow transplant and was in urgent need of blood.

"Ms. Pak was in dire need of a blood transfusion," said Capt. Kevin Blackney, assigned to the 8th Medical Group. "She had a rare blood type among the Korean population that was more common among Americans."

After conducting a search of the wing's medical records, Airman Pope was the first person identified with the matching blood type. Calls were made to Airman Pope's squadron who contacted the Airman at his dorm room. At the time, Airman Pope was off duty and sleeping but still quickly returned Captain Blackney's call.

"He called back and within about five hours of his phone call he was up and donating blood at the Chonbuk University Hospital," the captain said.

The first meeting between patient and Samaritan took place at the 8th SFS headquarters. Customary greetings and bows were exchanged as well as a more informal hug between two strangers whose lives became intertwined after a simple call for help.

Ms. Pak, her parents and Dr. Park were then given a quick tour of the base. They were shown around the security forces building before heading to an entry control point where Airman Pope explained some of his daily duties. The next stop on the tour was the 35th Fighter Squadron where Ms. Pak was fitted with a flight suit and jacket. The tour ended with a visit to the flightline where she got to see an F-16 Fighting Falcon up close and got to climb into the aircraft.

"I had a lot of fun," Ms. Pak said. "It was thrilling experience for me to visit the air base. When I was in the cockpit, I wanted to fly."

Before leaving the base, the party headed over to the 8th Fighter Wing Headquarters where they were met by Col. J.D. Harris, the 8th Fighter Wing commander, and Col. Pete Gersten, the 8th Operations Group commander.

"It's rare when someone donating blood gets to meet who they actually give it to," Colonel Harris said. "The entire Kunsan community came together both on the air base and downtown to make this happen.

Both Airman Pope and Ms. Pak received commander's coins from Colonel Harris who commented that Airman Pope's selfless act was not rare in the Air Force.

"I've seen this from Airmen for more than a decade and I'm proud to be serving with them, side by side," he said. 

Dr. Park also had plaques for Airman Pope and Captain Blackney to thank them for their help in saving the young woman's life.

Ms. Pak's visit to the base ended as it began, with bows and hugs, but also with a new friendship blossoming between one young South Korean woman and one young American Airman.

More Photos

War In Afghanistan Daily News - November 24, 2008

Forces Kill 19 Militants, Detain 11 in Afghanistan

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 23, 2008 – Coalition and Afghan forces killed 19 armed militants, detained 11 suspects and destroyed weapons in Afghanistan in recent days, military officials reported.

Combined forces killed 17 insurgents during an air assault operation in the Shah Wali Kot district of Kandahar province yesterday.

The combined force aimed the assault at a known insurgent safe haven to interdict enemy supplies and fighters. Insurgents in multiple locations fired on forces with automatic weapons and rocket-propelled grenades. Troops returned fire, killing 17 militants. Forces also discovered and destroyed several small weapons caches on site. The stockpiles contained ammunition and bomb-making materials.

News From NATO

Lithuanian children make scarves for Afghan children

GHOWR PROVINCE, Afghanistan — Students of the Sultan Alawadin Ghori boys school here display their new scarves Nov. 22. The scarves were handmade from Lithuanian students. (ISAF photo)

KABUL, Afghanistan — ISAF’s Ghowr Provincial Reconstruction Team Nov. 22 presented scarves knitted by Lithuanian children to pupils of Nasvan Sultan Ghowri Chaghcharan girls school and Sultan Alawadin Ghori boys school.

ISAF soldiers help children in Deh Rawod, Oruzgan Province

DEH RAWOD, Afghanistan-- ISAF soldier recently distributed winter clothes to Afghan children. (ISAF photo)

KABUL, Afghanistan — Following the sudden onset of wintery conditions in the Deh Rawod region of Oruzgan, ISAF soldiers took advantage of recent donations to distribute warm clothing to local Afghan children.

Multiple IED finds disrupt Insurgent Attacks after Joint Operation

KABUL, Afghanistan — Afghan National Security Forces, in conjunction with ISAF soldiers from 45 Commando Royal Marines recently unearthed a range of explosive devices in the Sangin Valley area of Helmand province.




News From Bagram Air Base

Nangarhar PRT brings new power to Afghan village

11/24/2008 - BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan -- Members of the Nangarhar Provincial Reconstruction Team celebrated newly installed electric transformer with the residents of Qasaba village during a ribbon-cutting ceremony Nov. 22.

The $35,000 project was funded by the PRT and will provide a more constant power source to more than 3,000 people in the small village outside the team's base near Jalalabad.

"This was a great project to be a part of because it allows us to directly help the people who live near us," said Air Force Capt. Lisa Leon, lead engineer for the PRT. "It lets us return some of the hospitality that has been shown to us so far."

Taliban roadside bomb network takes hit; Coalition forces kill seven militants

11/24/2008 - KABUL, Afghanistan -- Coalition forces killed seven armed Taliban fighters during an operation to disrupt the Taliban's roadside bomb and foreign fighter networks in Ghazni province, Sunday.

In Qarbagh District, Coalition forces targeted one of the province's senior Taliban commanders responsible for coordinating and directing roadside bombs, suicide and other attacks against innocent civilians, GIRoA and Coalition forces in the region. Intelligence also suggests the commander facilitates the movement of foreign fighters, weapons and bomb making materials into Ghazni.

As the force reached the targeted building, they gave precise directions for all individuals inside the compound to surrender and exit. Adhering to the command, one woman and two children exited the building peacefully. As the force attempted to safeguard the woman and children, they were besieged by small-arms fire and hand grenades from militants barricaded inside the compound. While moving the woman and children into a safe location, the force returned fire killing the seven armed militants inside.

From The Marine Corps

Video

30 Marines, 250 Enemy

Advantage Marines

Marines in Afghanistan are outnumbered, but when has that ever mattered?

hat ever matte

Project Valour-IT and The Mousetrap

The Mousetrap Story

A mouse looked through the crack 
in the wall to see the farmer
and his wife open a package.

What food might this contain?'
the mouse wondered - - -
he was devastated to discover
it was a mousetrap.

Retreating to the farmyard,
the mouse proclaimed the warning:
There is a mousetrap in the house! 
There is a mousetrap in the house!'

The chicken clucked and scratched,
raised her head and said,
'Mr.Mouse, I can tell this is a grave
concern to you, but it is of no consequence
to me. I cannot be bothered by it.'

The mouse turned to the pig and told him,
'There is a mousetrap in the house!
There is a mousetrap in the house!'
The pig sympathized, but said,
'I am so very sorry, Mr.Mouse,
but there is nothing I can do about it
but pray. Be assured you are in my prayers.'

The mouse turned to the cow and said,
'There is a mousetrap in the house!
There is a mousetrap in the house!'
The cow said, 'Wow, Mr. Mouse.
I'm sorry for you,
but it's no skin off my nose.'

So, the mouse returned to the house,
head down and dejected,
to face the farmer's mousetrap . . . alone.

That very night a sound was heard
throughout the house -- like the sound
of a mousetrap catching its prey.

The farmer's wife rushed to see what was caught.

In the darkness, she did not see it was a
venomous snake whose tail the
trap had caught.

The snake bit the farmer's wife.
The farmer rushed her to the hospital,
and she returned home with a fever.

Everyone knows you treat a fever
with fresh chicken soup, so the farmer
took his hatchet to the farmyard
for the soup's main ingredient.

But his wife's sickness continued,
so friends and neighbors came to sit
with her around the clock.

To feed them,
the farmer butchered the pig.
The farmer's wife did not get well;
she died.

So many people came for her funeral,
the farmer had the cow slaughtered to provide
enough meat for all of them.

The mouse looked upon it all from his crack
in the wall with great sadness.
 
So, the next time you hear someone is
facing a problem and think it doesn't
concern you, remember ----
when one of us is threatened,
we are all at risk.

We are all involved in this 
journey called life.

We must keep an eye out for
one another and make an extra effort
to encourage one another.

Author Unknown

Sent to me by a Marine

Soldiers' Angel's is in the midst of their 4th Annual fundraising drive  for Project Valour-IT.  If you haven't heard of it, or don't know what it is all about, then check them out here.

If you are looking for some interesting reading material as a Christmas Gift, check out the ebay Auction going on here.

ALL donations to Project Valour-IT go straight to the purchase of equipment.

ALL proceeds from the purchase of the books on ebay go straight to the purchase of equipment.

Do you understand the message within the Mousetrap Story?  Think about the end of the story again, if you are unsure of how Project-IT and The Mousetrap Story might be related.

So, the next time you hear someone is
facing a problem and think it doesn't
concern you, remember ----
when one of us is threatened,
we are all at risk.

We are all involved in this 
journey called life.

We must keep an eye out for
one another and make an extra effort
to encourage one another.

Copyright 2008 MsMarti. All rights reserved.

War In Iraq Daily News - November 24, 2008

 

Iraqi Police, U.S. Soldiers Provide Humanitarian Aid in Baghdad

Monday, 24 November 2008

Iraqi children thank an Iraqi Policeman with smiles after receiving a case of bottled water in the 9 Nissan district of eastern Baghdad, Nov. 20, 2008. Photo by Sgt. Jeremy Todd, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division Public Affairs.

FOB RUSTAMIYAH — Iraqi Police (IP) officers and U.S. Soldiers attached to 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, teamed up to distribute humanitarian aid to those who needed the assistance in eastern Baghdad, Nov 20.

The IP and Soldiers from Company A, 1st Battalion, 66th Armor Regiment, 1st Brigade combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, attached to 4th BCT, 10th Mtn. Div., met in the morning to load two trucks: one with humanitarian-aid packages and the other with bottled water.

They headed to one of the poorest areas of the 9 Nissan District to hand out the goods. Each package contained rice, sugar and canned-food items packed in yellow knapsacks.

When the convoy arrived, the streets filled with men, women and children eager to greet the IP and Soldiers, who distributed the knapsacks in less than half an hour, noted 1st Lt. Eric Chapman, a platoon leader for Company A, from Killeen, Texas. The Soldiers provided security as the IP distributed the aid packages and water to the people.

“My Soldiers have transitioned well from when we were in the lead to the Iraqis leading almost all of the missions – and that’s why we’re here,” explained Chapman. “[Our] 1st Platoon Soldiers have trained their counterparts diligently and now gladly step to the side, letting the Iraqi Police take the lead.”

The IP seemed to enjoy the reactions of the local citizens. In turn, the people were pleased to receive aid from the IP.

“No one was nervous to approach the IP,” said Pfc. Trevor Shields, of Newhall, Calif. “In fact, it was the opposite.”

One part of his mission was to monitor the peoples’ attitudes toward the IP who serve the citizens in the area, said 1st Lt. Trustin Varnado, who is from Killeen, Texas, and serves as an intelligence officer.

“We rode along, not only to provide security for the IPs but also to get a feel for the people of 9-Nissan,” commented Varnado. “And, as it seems, the attitude is a positive one. They received the Iraqi Police with open arms, literally.”

Along with the bottled water and canned goods, the IP handed out informational flyers about wanted criminals known to previously live and operate in the area.

(By Sgt. Jeremy Todd, 10th Mountain Division)

Iraqi Villagers Anticipate Clean Water for First Time

THI QAR PROVINCE — Families in a small village north of Nasiriyah are anxiously awaiting the completion of a water treatment facility that will provide them a local source of clean drinking water for the first time ever. Approximately 1,500 residents live in the Al Shofa neighborhood, which will be served by the new 50-cubic-meter-per-hour facility.

 

Abu Ghraib Governance Center Opens

BAGHDAD — For years, the western Baghdad District of Abu Ghraib has been synonymous with violence and unrest. Tales of prisoner abuse, convoy ambushes and Soldiers missing in action were associated with the small Baghdad suburb. With the security situation becoming more stable in Baghdad and the surrounding areas, and the Iraqi security forces assuming more security responsibility each week, efforts to improve and revitalize areas such as Abu Ghraib are now starting to move forward.

 

Troops in Iraq Capture 42 Suspected Terrorists, Seize Weapons

WASHINGTON — Coalition and Iraqi forces detained 42 suspected terrorists and seized weapons caches during recent operations across Iraq, military officials said. In two separate operations in Baghdad yesterday, troops captured eight suspected members of an insurgent network. Military officials said the network, known as Asaib Ahl al-Haq, engages in roadside bombings, kidnappings and sectarian killings.

 

Interactive Iraq :: Video News

Iraqi Freedom Minute, Nov. 23

•This edition features a story on a combat support hospital in Baghdad that stabilizes patients before transport to garrison hospitals.

Watch Now

Sunday, 23 November 2008	Iraqi villagers anticipate clean water for first time
Sunday, 23 November 2008	Coalition Munitions Clearance Program changes mission, reflects on past accomplishments

 

Being Constructive

 

Sunday, 23 November 2008	6th IA Div. logistics leader bears witness to importance of diagnostics
Sunday, 23 November 2008	IA soldiers seize large weapons caches in Sadr City
Sunday, 23 November 2008	Royal Air Force Regiment spreads goodwill (Basra)

 

Sweet Police

 

Sunday, 23 November 2008	Iraqi NCOES Campaign Plan Approved
Sunday, 23 November 2008	Two wanted men, seven suspected terrorists detain

 

Serve and Protect

 

Sunday, 23 November 2008	Air Force officer experiences ‘joint’ and ‘multi-national’ to the highest degree (Tallil Air Base)
Sunday, 23 November 2008	Weapons caches found during cordon and search (Diyala province)

 

The Reaper

 

Sunday, 23 November 2008	Coalition forces detain Katai’b Hezbollah suspects (Baghdad)
Sunday, 23 November 2008	Coalition forces continue to target Asa’ib Ahl al-Haq criminals (Baghdad)

WWII vet receives Bronze Star 63 years later

WWII vet receives Bronze Star 63 years later

Retired Lt. Gen. Russel L. Honore congratulates former Pfc Douglas W. Kearney after presenting him the Bronze Star Nov. 12 for achievement during combat in World War II.

Photo by Alan Kurlan

Nov 20, 2008
BY Isidro Reyna

WASHINGTON (Army News Service, Nov. 20, 2008) - Although the honor was bestowed more than six decades later, for one World War II veteran his service has not been forgotten.

Former Pfc. Douglas W. Kearney, 85, was awarded the Bronze Star Medal Nov. 12 in his hometown of Milford, Conn., by retired Lt. Gen. Russel L. Honoré in a ceremony at the Milford City Hall for meritorious achievement in combat.

"It all started 10 years ago when watching 'Saving Private Ryan,'" said Dr. Sheila Kearney. "My dad said, 'I was there'. I kind of discounted it since the Army was segregated, but he gave a lot of details, so I fact- checked."

During the search, Kearney found that her father served with Headquarters, 17th Armored Infantry Battalion, 12th Armored Division in campaigns throughout northern France, Rhineland and central Europe, including the D-Day invasion of Normandy.

"You rarely saw black Soldiers at that time," she said. "He was a machine gunner and rifle marksman. He did extra training."

Douglas Kearney was drafted into the military through the selective service process and was placed with a black unit out of Massachusetts, said Dr. Kearney. He was transferred to an integrated company with the 17th Armored and later deployed.

"My dad was elated to receive the Bronze Star Medal, first because of the recognition," said Kearney. "...and being black then, and in a foreign country with white troops; it was tough."

The award comes as the Army marks the 60th anniversary of desegregation of the U.S. military this year.

Kearney also received the Connecticut Veterans Service Medal presented by the State of Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs. He also served as grand marshal of the Milford Veterans Day Parade.

The Bronze Star Medal came about thanks to the help of Lt. Gen. Honoré, said Dr. Kearney. She serves as the executive director of corporate responsibility at Gallup. Honoré, who retired as the commanding general of First Army based at Fort Gillem, Ga., now works as a senior scientist with the company. She mentioned her father's service to the retired general and Honoré made the request on her father's behalf.

Pfc. Douglas Kearney wasn't the only servicemember in his family. His older sister, Capt. Mary F. Kearney, was Bridgeport Connecticut's first Women's Army Corps member and a Howard University graduate. This month the Army marks the 30th anniversary of the integration of the WACs into the regular Army.

Brother William, also a Howard graduate, served in the South Pacific with the Army Medical Corps.

Kearney said she hopes that more veterans who served with her father during World War II will receive recognition for their service as well.

• Related Links
• African Americans in the U.S. Army

Hershel Walker speaks to Fort Bliss Soldiers about mental health

Hershel Walker speaks to Fort Bliss Soldiers about mental health

Nov 17, 2008
BY Julia Yubeta

Herschel Walker signs autographs and footballs following his presentation on dissociative identity disorder to cadre and Soldiers assigned to Warrior Transition Battalion. Photo by Clarence Davis III

"I wanted help and I wanted to understand. There's no shame in admitting you have a problem - I did!"

With those words, Hershel Walker, the legendary 1982 Heisman Trophy winner, pro football star and Olympian, revealed he had suffered from a form of mental illness called dissociative identify disorder - DID. He shared his personal experiences during presentations Thursday at William Beaumont Army Medical Center and the Warrior Transition Battalion.

Before Walker began his presentation at the first session held in the center's clinical assembly room, Col. Ney M. Gore, deputy commander for clinical services, presented Walker with the commander's coin. He thanked him for "taking time to help Soldiers, family members and assigned staff to recognize that it's OK to seek help when there are mental health challenges in your life."

"Here at WBAMC, we are committed to providing innovative care from the battlefield to the home front," said Gore.

As a child growing up in Wrightsville, Ga., Walker suffered from a speech impediment and was overweight. Other children bullied him. To cope, he used an alternate personality to deal with the hurt and embarrassment. Finally, he had enough. He started doing push-ups and sit-ups and running five to 10 miles a day. He read books and improved in his schoolwork.

His parents didn't allow him to make excuses. His competitive spirit drove him to succeed in scholastics and athletics. Walker graduated valedictorian from his high school class and played football for the University of Georgia. He went on to further successes in pro football and Olympic fame.

Ten years ago, Walker learned he suffered from DID, formerly known as multiple personality disorder. "All I knew about multiple personalities was from the movie Sybill - and she seemed crazy to me," said Walker. "I had to come to terms with my diagnosis. I knew I wasn't happy; I was sad, I was angry, and my life was out of control."

Walker, a tough guy with impressive accomplishments as a football player, an Olympian, a father and a businessman, needed help. After getting treatment for his diagnosis, Walker said he feels stronger than ever.

"We are all hurting in some way. Coping mechanisms are developed from childhood. Some people use alcohol or drugs to cope," said Walker. "People need to admit they have a problem in order to stop suffering needlessly."

Walker has traveled to Iraq on several occasions and said visiting the Soldiers there was a very special privilege for him.

"As a child I always wanted to join the military," said Walker. "It was impressive to see our Soldiers in action in the combat zone. Supporting our military and what they do to ensure our freedom is important to me. "

Speaking to Soldiers, Walker said, "If you think you might be suffering from some type of mental health issue, including post-traumatic stress disorder, get treatment. Doing so does not make you a weak person. Look at me: I am better and stronger. Some people won't understand. As a whole, we are not educated about mental illness."

"You are not crazy - you have suffered trauma," added Walker. "As a Soldier, you have gone through much more than the average person experiences. You need to get the right kind of help. If you get treatment, you can become a better citizen, a better family man and a stronger person."

Walker said he is passionate about educating the public and breaking down stereotypes about mental health issues.

"Everything in your life is not always going to go right or be right," he said. "If you don't get to the root of the problem, the tree will never blossom. Love yourself; you are special. Allow yourself to blossom."

"For all of his accomplishments on the football field and athletic prowess, perhaps Hershel's greatest accomplishment has been to help reduce the stigma associated with recognizing and getting help for mental health issues," said Col. Benjamin Page, chief of the WBAMC Department of Mental Health.

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Iraq-bound Marines feel the HEAT

Marines Learn to Survive Humvee Rollovers

Sgt. Steven Castro ensures Marines from II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward) are wearing their seatbelts prior to closing the door on a Humvee Egress Assistance Trainer aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 28, 2008. The HEAT is designed to teach deploying Marines and sailors how to properly and safely escape a vehicle when there is a roll over caused by an accident or improvised explosive device attack.  Master Sgt. Keith A. Milks, 10/28/2008 4:10 AM

11/20/2008  By Master Sgt. Keith A. Milks, II MEF (FWD) 

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. — 

Every day at carnivals and amusement parks throughout the United States, Americans lay down good money to get thrown, dipped and tossed around on amusement rides.

The Marines and sailors from II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward) who are heading to Iraq in early 2009 can enjoy a similar experience, but without the cost, and are doing so not for the thrills but because the experience may save their lives.

Stepping into the Humvee Egress Assistance Trainer, or HEAT, wearing helmets and body armor and equipped with rubber rifles, Marines and sailors enter a shell that replicates the interior of a standard Humvee.  Once the four occupants are strapped in and the doors locked behind them, the simulator’s operator kicks in the hydraulics that sends the HEAT spinning on an axle.

“The HEAT is designed to show Marines what it’s like to be in a vehicle roll over either from an accident or an IED [improvised explosive device] attack,” said Sgt. Steven Castro, a motor transport operator with II MEF Headquarters Group, who has the additional responsibilities of licensing new drivers and operating the egress trainer.  “Going through the HEAT is a PTP [pre-deployment training program] requirement for all Marines going to Iraq or Afghanistan.

“Regardless of rank, you’re going to get spun.”

Castro spins each group a full 360 degrees anywhere from three to six times that simulates the vehicle rolling down an embankment, and finally stops the HEAT on its side or upside down.  The occupants then have to unbuckle, disentangle themselves from their comrades, and find the single unlocked door to safety. 

“The biggest problem Marines have is the loss of control,” said Castro.  “Once they are inside the HEAT, all they can do is react to how many times they get spun and where they end up stopping.”

Every service member has to go through the HEAT three times, and on their third iteration, Castro assigns a casualty which the ‘survivors’ have to evacuate while still providing security.

Despite the tight-fitting seat belts, the occupants still get knocked around and jarred violently, and the experience leaves many Marines dizzy and aching, but still faced with the need to get out of the vehicle with all their gear and fellow Marines and sailors.

“It was fun,” said Pfc. Matthew Brillant, a II MHG motor transport operator getting ready to head out on his first deployment to Iraq who volunteered to go through the trainer a second time to round out a group of four occupants.  “It was really disorienting, and my first time through I was confused on where we stopped and how to get out, but by the third time it wasn’t too hard.”

Other Marines were less enthusiastic about the training, with one senior Marine exclaiming it was “the worst carnival ride of my life.”  Regardless of the Marines’ and sailors’ personal enthusiasm for the training, Castro said the true value of the training rests in teaching deploying service members techniques on how to get out of an overturned vehicle and giving them the confidence that they can survive a life-threatening situation.

Castro, who is about to deploy to Iraq for the third time, knew Marines who had drowned in Iraq when their vehicle overturned in a shallow river and were unable to escape in time, and takes great satisfaction in helping his fellow Marines and sailors prepare for deployment.

“it is very rewarding to know that you are possibly helping your fellow Marines survive if this was to happen over in theater.”

The HEAT is a portion of an intense PTP regimen that is preparing the Marines and sailors of II MEF (Fwd)  for their upcoming deployment to Iraq when they assume control of Iraq’s Al Anbar province 

For more information on II MEF (Fwd), visit the unit’s web site at http://www.iimefpublic.usmc.mil/iimeffwd , and to learn about the ongoing mission in Iraq, go to http://www.mnfwest.usmc.mil.

Held in place by their seat belts and preparing to disengage themselves, Marines from the II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward) react to a simulated vehicle roll over during their session inside a Humvee Egress Assistance Trainer aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 28, 2008. The HEAT is designed to teach deploying Marines and sailors how to properly and safely escape a vehicle when there is a roll over caused by an accident or improvised explosive device attack.  Master Sgt. Keith A. Milks, 10/28/2008 4:10 AM


Marines from the II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward) scramble out of a Humvee Egress Assistance Trainer that has been spun 90 degrees aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 28, 2008. The HEAT is designed to teach deploying Marines and sailors how to properly and safely escape a vehicle when there is a roll over caused by an accident or improvised explosive device attack.  Master Sgt. Keith A. Milks, 10/28/2008 4:10 AM

After having been spun several times and left upside down, Marines from II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward) scramble out of a Humvee Egress Assistance Trainer aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 28, 2008. The HEAT is designed to teach deploying Marines and sailors how to properly and safely escape a vehicle when there is a roll over caused by an accident or improvised explosive device attack.  Master Sgt. Keith A. Milks, 10/28/2008 4:10 AM

As one Marine provides security, other Marines from II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward) evacuate a simulated casualty out of a Humvee Egress Assistance Trainer aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 28, 2008. The HEAT is designed to teach deploying Marines and sailors how to properly and safely escape a vehicle when there is a roll over caused by an accident or improvised explosive device attack.  Master Sgt. Keith A. Milks, 10/28/2008 4:10 AM

Held in place by his seat belt and gripping a steering wheel, Pfc. Matthew Brilliant of II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward) dangles upside down as he is spun inside a Humvee Egress Assistance Trainer aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 28, 2008. The HEAT is designed to teach deploying Marines and sailors how to properly and safely escape a vehicle when there is a roll over caused by an accident or improvised explosive device attack.  Master Sgt. Keith A. Milks, 10/28/2008 4:10 AM

With one Marine pushing from below, a Marine from II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward) pulls a simulated casualty out of a Humvee Egress Assistance Trainer aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 28, 2008. The HEAT is designed to teach deploying Marines and sailors how to properly and safely escape a vehicle when there is a roll over caused by an accident or improvised explosive device attack.  Master Sgt. Keith A. Milks, 10/28/2008 4:10 AM

Marines from II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward) evacuate from a Humvee Egress Assistance Trainer aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 28, 2008. The HEAT is designed to teach deploying Marines and sailors how to properly and safely escape a vehicle when there is a roll over caused by an accident or improvised explosive device attack.  Master Sgt. Keith A. Milks, 10/28/2008 4:10 AM

Sgt. Steven Castro operates the Humvee Egress Assistance Trainer aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 28, 2008. Inside the HEAT are four servicemembers from the II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward) who are learning how to properly and safely escape a vehicle when there is a roll over caused by an accident or improvised explosive device attack.  Master Sgt. Keith A. Milks, 10/28/2008 4:10 AM

Sgt. Steven Castro, a motor transport operator with II Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, explains to Marines of II MEF (Forward) how the Humvee Egress Assistance Trainer works aboard Camp Lejeune, N.C., Oct. 28, 2008. The HEAT is designed to teach deploying Marines and sailors how to properly and safely escape a vehicle when there is a roll over caused by an accident or improvised explosive device attack.  Master Sgt. Keith A. Milks, 10/28/2008 4:10 AM

Iron Chef gets creative with MREs

Iron Chef gets creative with MREs

Bon Appetito!

Chef Roberto Donna encourages Sgt. 1st Class Randy Randolph and Sgt. Ashleigh Torres to enjoy his

Mission: MRE creations.

Photo by C. Todd Lopez

Nov 18, 2008
BY Elizabeth M. Collins

WASHINGTON (Army News Service, Nov. 17, 2008) - Can a celebrity chef, restaurant owner, cookbook author and winner of the Food Network's "Iron Chef," create five-star, restaurant-quality dishes out of two Meals Ready to Eat?

"Mission: MRE" assigned Chef Roberto Donna and Sous Chef Claudio Sandri only 30 minutes to create at least two dishes out of two MREs. They were allowed to use only five ingredients total, in addition to unlimited herbs and spices, in Donna's Arlington, Va., restaurant "Bebo Trattoria."

The mission was assigned by Soldiers Radio and Television's Ana Allen, who produced it as a segment for "Army Newswatch," now airing on the Pentagon Channel, American Forces Networks overseas and almost 1,000 cable channels nationwide.

"It's for our guys in the Army, so anything that makes them feel good and (helps them) do their job is a pleasure," said the Italian Donna, admitting that he wasn't sure about the idea at first. "I say, 'What? What are you talking about?' I was kind of surprised, but then, talking to Ana, she explained it. It's challenging and it's for a good cause. If you can make people feel better and laugh a little bit, it's good."

Given a list of MRE flavors ahead of time, Donna picked vegetable manicotti and grilled chicken, but he couldn't open the packages until the clock started, so he didn't know exactly what he was getting.

He said that as a chef, the MREs were a little scary, but that it's amazing that Soldiers can carry full meals with them. The manicotti and chicken weren't that bad, either. According to Donna, they were very similar to what can be found in many supermarkets. They just needed a little help.

Donna added some pork sausage, tomato puree, basil, onion and garlic to the manicotti, topping it with the ubiquitous cracker found in almost any MRE. The pasta wasn't very al dente, so he wanted to add some firmness and texture with the cracker. The whole mixture then went into the oven.

He added some of the same tomato puree to the grilled chicken and melted some mozzarella on top to make chicken parmesan. Then Donna toasted some flatbread he found in the MRE and rubbed garlic on it, serving it alongside the chicken.

Desserts were more of a challenge. First, Donna cut out a circle from a poppy-seed cake and sliced it in half, layering the pieces with homemade fig preserves and adding an orange sauce.

For the second dessert, Donna used only MRE ingredients, topping a caramel-apple Ranger bar with peanut butter, M&Ms and a sauce he made from a hazelnut-chocolate drink mix.

This was the least favorite of Army taste-testers Sgt. 1st Class Randy Randolph and Sgt. Ashleigh Torres of SRTV. They gave it two stars, Torres saying it tasted like medicine.

The other dishes were a much bigger hit, especially the chicken parmesan, which earned four stars.

"It's delicious," said Randolph, adding that he thought it deserved five stars. "This is definitely a five-star meal. It beats throwing water into a bag."

The poppy-seed cake also received four stars, while the manicotti earned three, although the Soldiers still said it was fantastic.

"A little bit of olive oil and garlic, they taste good," said Donna. "It's just a little bit of imagination. This is Italian style. I think any cuisine can fix them their own way.

"I'm very happy with the two main dishes. I agree with the chocolate-and-apple cracker and peanut butter was a little strange-tasting, but if you like those tastes, it's good. I think all together I'm pretty happy with the job that we did. I added ingredients that were pretty good and easy to work with."

Vegetable manicotti in a tomato and sausage ragout with breaded topping: three Army stars

Ingredients:
1 vegetable manicotti in tomato sauce (MRE item)
1 cup pork sausage
½ cup tomato puree
½ cup wine
¼ of an onion
1 clove garlic
1 white cracker (MRE item)
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh basil
Tabasco sauce (MRE item)

Method:
Finely chop onion and garlic. Pour olive oil in a medium sized skillet and sauté onion, garlic and pork sausage over medium heat. Add wine, tomato puree, salt, pepper, fresh basil and Tobasco to taste. Add vegetable manicotti and warm it all the way through. Coarsely chop a white cracker and set aside for topping.

Plate manicotti and ragout sauce in an oven-proof dish. Add cracker topping and bake in the oven at 350 ° for 15 minutes. Serve hot.

Chicken parmesan in a tomato sauce over garlic bread: four Army stars

Ingredients:
1 grilled-chicken breast (MRE item)
Two large slices of mozzarella cheese
2 slices of flatbread (MRE item)
¾ cup tomato puree
2 cloves of garlic
A pinch each of salt, pepper and oregano
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 sprig of rosemary

Method:
Coat pan with olive oil over medium heat. Chop one clove of garlic and sauté until golden. Pour in tomato puree. Add salt, pepper and oregano to taste. Place grilled-chicken breast into sauce and then place mozzarella cheese on top of chicken to melt over medium-low heat.

Coat another pan with olive oil and toast flatbread until golden brown. Remove bread from pan. Cut a clove of garlic in half and rub it over the flatbread. Place bread on a plate and scoop finished chicken parmesan on top. Decorate with a sprig of rosemary.

Lemon poppy-seed cake with fig marmalade and orange sauce: four Army stars

Ingredients:
1 lemon poppy-seed cake (MRE item)
¼ cup fig marmalade
½ cup sugar
1 cup orange juice
1 tablespoon orange rind
1 cookie cutter

Method:
Take lemon poppy-seed cake and cut it into a circle with a cookie cutter. Carefully slice dessert horizontally into two cakes with a knife and place on a dessert plate. Spoon a generous amount of fig marmalade between the cake slices. Place a dollop of marmalade on top of the cake.

Caramelize ½ cup sugar over low heat. Once the sugar has a golden-brown color, pour 1 cup orange juice and 1 table spoon orange rind and reduce sauce over medium heat. Place left over poppy seed cake pieces around the dessert and dribble reduced orange sauce all over cake.

Caramel-apple Ranger bar in a chocolate hazelnut sauce with M&Ms and a crunchy peanut butter topping: two Army stars

Ingredients:
1 caramel-apple Ranger bar (MRE item)
1 packet of chocolate-hazelnut cocoa powder (MRE item)
2 tablespoons water
1 tablespoon peanut butter (MRE item)
1 packet of M&Ms (MRE item)

Method:
Slice the caramel-apple ranger bar into 1 inch slices and save the crumbs for topping.
To make chocolate sauce, mix chocolate-hazelnut powder with a couple of tablespoons of water in a separate bowl. Pour sauce into a shallow dish. Place the sliced ranger bar on top of the chocolate sauce and decorate with M&Ms around the dessert. Take a tablespoon of peanut butter and mix in crumbs left over from ranger bar. Place dollop of peanut butter topping on top of dessert and enjoy.

(Editor's Note: SRTV's Ana Allen provided the recipes for this report. This is the first in a series about chefs making over MREs.)

The Art of "Blinding and Deafening" America's Enemies

New EW career field to 'blind enemy' with science

Nov 17, 2008
BY C. Todd Lopez

By 2010 the Army expects to have more than 1,500 Soldiers trained in the art of "blinding and deafening" America's enemies by wielding the radio spectrum as a weapon. Photo by File photo

WASHINGTON (Army News Service, Nov. 17, 2008) -- By 2010 the Army expects to have more than 1,500 Soldiers trained in the art of "blinding and deafening" America's enemies by wielding the radio spectrum as a weapon.

The Army has in the past relied heavily on both the Navy and the Air Force for their electronic warfare capability, said Col. Laurie G. Buckhout, the Army's chief of electronic warfare. But the service plans to remedy that by creating a new electronic warfare career field for officers, warrant officers and enlisted members.

"We're going to be able to protect ourselves from spectrum-using threats, which we can't really do for ourselves today," said Buckhout. "We have the Air Force and the Navy doing that for us now and that is getting a little old for them and old for us. We want to be able to attack, blind, deafen and isolate the enemy before he does it to us."

The Army doesn't really plan on making anybody actually blind or deaf. Instead, it plans on providing Soldiers with the training and equipment they need to effectively wage war within the radio spectrum and to apply fires on that new battlefield that can destroy the ability of the enemy to communicate amongst themselves.

"Electronic warfare is the new battlefield, it's our new domain," said Buckhout.

To man the guns on that new battlefield, in both offensive and defensive roles, the Army is creating the 29-series career field for electronic warfare operators and officers.

The Army recently pushed seven officers through a new pilot course at Fort Sill, Okla., a course that will qualify those Soldiers to carry the designation of electronic warfare officer, should Chief of Staff of the Army Gen. George W. Casey Jr. sign off on a Force Design Update sometime next month.

But it's not just officers the Army plans to train. New courses are now being developed for both enlisted Soldiers and for warrant officers. The Army expects to initially man the electronic warfare career field with some 1,511 Soldiers in the rank of sergeant and above. Students are expected to attend classes and become part of the electronic warfare community by 2010.

The new graduates will man positions in Army operations sections, not in intelligence sections, where electronic warfare-types have served in the past, Buckhout said.

"That is a huge change for the Army and it is revolutionary in the way the Army is now looking at holistic electronic warfare -- we're waging war on the spectrum. It's not just for the intelligence community anymore."

The Army does currently have two additional skill-identifier courses in electronic warfare, including the Electronic Warfare Planners course taught at Fort Sill and the Counter RCIED (Remote Control Improvised Explosive Device) Electronic Warfare course to teach CREW operators to use the improvised explosive device-jamming technology. But neither course really trains Soldiers for a career using EW as an offensive weapon. While CREW is a component of electronic warfare, it is a self-defense measure, not an offensive weapon, Buckhout said.

"It's not blinding and deafening the enemy," she said. "It's just kind of protecting yourself. Just like in a foxhole -- only a moving foxhole because we have a protective bubble around us. And that's no way to fight. You're still defensively operating on the battlefield, rather than offensively."

The new career field and a new way to fight with electronic warfare will change all that, Buckhout said. Instead of limiting EW to gathering intelligence or disabling an IED, the Army will use EW as a weapon to inflict damage on the enemy, said Buckhout.

"With EW, you can suppress IEDs, you can stop communications, and you can do suppression of air defenses so you can stop people from shooting at you," she said. "To stop their radars from finding you, you can do radar suppression. You can also use the spectrum to jam or screw up or deceive them on their GPS. Imagine enemy aviators flying and all of the sudden they have no GPS -- that'll screw them up. You can also take out enemy formations the same way, by taking out their radars and sensors and their battle command."

It's no surprise that Soldiers already involved in artillery and other offensive attack-related career fields are showing up and asking to be part of the EW community.

"A lot of fires guys want to be part of this, because electronic attack is a form of fires," said Buckhout. "It is going out and attacking something, and you have to consider battle space, trajectory, targeting, and the effects you want. All these things are done with electronics. So it's the fires and the field artillery guys that are all over this, and they are doing a really good job."

One possible roadblock to moving the Army further forward with EW is getting everybody on board and getting them to understand.

"The other services are ahead of us in some ways, in terms of airborne capabilities -- the Navy and the Air Force in particular," Buckhout said. "The Army is entrenched - it's like trying to bring tanks in to the old cavalry guys, that fight Patton had back in the 30s. It's not just horses anymore, there's a whole new capability out there, a whole new threat. We need to be able to achieve parity -- we have to get past the horse cavalry mentality."