War On Terror News

Services See Challenges, Opportunities in Military Land Use

By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Feb. 24, 2009 – Acquiring land for U.S. military training is fraught with human and fiscal obstacles. Lack of available space, thorny negotiations with private landowners and budget grappling among the services are just a few of the problems.

Likewise, divesting itself of land the military no longer needs has its own set of unique challenges, Pentagon land management experts told a congressional subcommittee today.

War In Afghanistan Combat News - February 25, 2009

In this edition

Afghan National Army, Coalition Forces kill 10 militants in Oruzgan

Coalition Forces, ANP disrupt IED network in Kandahar

Three ISAF soldiers killed in southern Afghanistan

ISAF, ANSF partner for operation in Wardak's Jalrez valley

Dangerous munitions safely destroyed by ANFS

NATO weapons modernise Afghan National Army

Insurgent planting IED killed by ISAF patrol in northern Helmand

Three civilians injured in northern Sangin

Afghan National Army, Coalition Forces kill 10 militants in Oruzgan

February 25, 2009

KABUL, Afghanistan – Afghan National Army soldiers assisted by Coalition Forces killed 10 militants in the Shaheed Hasas District, Oruzgan Province, approximately 160 km north of Kandahar Tuesday.

Afghanistan News - February 25, 2009

In this edition

Winter kits distributed in Konar

Panjshir PRT aids local villages after snowstorm

Deputy Commander ISAF answers questions about election security, civilian casualties

Winter kits distributed in Konar

KABUL, Afghanistan - The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) through the assistance of the Local Governance and Community Development project recently distributed more than 1,000 winterisation kits in Konar province.  

U.S. Air Forces in Europe blog now open to Airmen

by 1st Lt. J.D. Griffin
U.S. Air Forces in Europe Public Affairs

2/24/2009 - RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany (AFNS)  -- Airmen now have their own dedicated Web-space to talk about their service in the U.S. Air Forces in Europe.

"USAFE Live" is a new blog Airmen are encouraged to use for posting accounts of their experiences using words and photos. 

President Says Budget Signifies New Way Forward for Defense

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Feb. 24, 2009 – Americans are not quitters, and the country can overcome the difficulties facing it, President Barack Obama said tonight in his first speech before a joint session of Congress.

In a speech mainly dedicated to the economic crisis facing the world, the president also honored the nation's men and women in uniform, vowing to increase the size of the Army and Marine Corps, raise military pay and provide the medical care veterans deserve.

Remarks of President Barack Obama -- Address to Joint Session of Congress

Remarks of President Barack Obama – As Prepared for Delivery
Address to Joint Session of Congress
Tuesday, February 24th, 2009

Madame Speaker, Mr. Vice President, Members of Congress, and the First Lady of the United States:

I’ve come here tonight not only to address the distinguished men and women in this great chamber, but to speak frankly and directly to the men and women who sent us here. 

Combat Vet Gives Voice to Military Musicians

By Sara Moore
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Feb. 24, 2009 – Music is considered by many to be a universal language, and for some military veterans, it is the only language that allows them to describe their experiences in combat and their struggles afterward.

Military musicians normally would struggle to have their voices heard in the cutthroat music industry, but a fellow veteran has given them a chance to get their music released and in the hands of fans worldwide.

More Troops, Families Likely to Qualify for New GI Bill Benefits

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Feb. 24, 2009 – Troops nearing retirement eligibility may be able to tap into the transferability benefits provided in the new Post-9/11 GI Bill, even if they’re unable to serve four more years of duty due to service policies, a senior defense official said.

The Post-9/11 Veterans Education Bill that takes effect in August and will offer more benefits and the ability to transfer benefits to a spouse or child has proven to be a hit with the troops, Bill Carr, deputy undersecretary of defense for military personnel policy, told the Pentagon Channel and American Forces Press Service.

Feb. 22 airpower summary

An Air Force B-1B Lancer awaits its next mission at a base in Southwest Asia. B-1s fly close-air-support missions for both Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Ken Stephens)

Feb. 22 airpower summary: B-1B destroys enemy bunker

War In Afghanistan Combat News - February 24, 2009

In this edition:

Two Afghans killed and two wounded by explosion

Afghan National Army, Coalition Forces kill 16 militants in Helmand

Coalition Forces provide care for critically injured, ill Afghans

Civilians injured in Sangin operation

KABUL, Afghanistan - An incident occurred today in Sangin District, Helmand Province in which an International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) patrol was ambushed by insurgent forces and resulted in a number of civilian casualties. All of the causalities received immediate medical treatment and were taken by helicopter to ISAF hospitals.

The incident is being investigated fully with the utmost rigour. ISAF is coordinating closely with the Afghan authorities and keeping the Office of the Governor of Helmand Province fully informed.

ISAF Spokesman Brigadier General Richard Blanchette said: “General McKiernan takes all allegations

Iraq Combat News - February 24, 2009

In this edition: ISF, Sons of Iraq discover IED in Aamel 

ISF, MND-B Soldiers discover IED in Mansour

ISF arrest four suspected criminals

Multi-National Division –

BAGHDAD – Iraqi Security Forces arrested four suspected criminals with warrants during operations Feb. 20 in the Yarmouk neighborhood of northwest Baghdad.

Iraqi Soldiers from the 2nd Battalion, 54th Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division, reported arresting the suspected criminals for participation in the development and placement of magnetic improvised explosive devices.

Face of Defense: Navy Officer Scales Africa’s Tallest Mountain

By Dan Bender
Special to American Forces Press Service

COLUMBUS, Ohio, Feb. 23, 2009 – As a member of the Navy Supply Corps who works for the Defense Logistics Agency, Navy Capt. Jim Patton is especially attuned to the importance of logistical support for missions.

Navy Capt. Jim Patton, director of maritime customer operations at the Defense Supply Center Columbus, Ohio, stands at the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania during a January 2009 trip to the highest mountain in Africa. Photo courtesy of Navy Capt. Jim Patton   (Click photo for screen-resolution image);high-resolution image available.

So when he and his wife, Laurie, recently trekked up the side of Mount Kilimanjaro in Africa, one thing that impressed him, besides the spectacular views, was the logistical prowess of the guides who accompanied their tour group up the mountain.

“The guides were masters at logistics and moving a large crowd up and down the mountain and feeding all of us,” he said. “They prepared three-course meals for about 15 of us in the group on a gas tank with a single flame, and they had to carry everything on their backs.

Afghanistan News - February 24, 2009

In this edition: First police substation opens in Uruzgan Military Opens Mental Health Clinic for Troops in Afghanistan By Army Spc. Boris Shiloff, Special to American Forces Press Service BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan, Feb. 23, 2009 – Servicemembers in Afghanistan now have a place to turn to cope with the toughest aspects of deployment when they need it most. Army Capt. Don Hawkins, left, works on a project while Army Staff Sgt. Reginald Jones, right, talks with a servicemember during occupational therapy activities at the Bagram Freedom Restoration Center at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, Feb. 23, 2009. U.S. Army photo by Spc. Boris Shiloff   (Click photo for screen-resolution image);high-resolution image available. The Bagram Freedom Restoration Center here is the first mental health clinic for troops in Afghanistan. The center’s main goal is to give servicemembers skills to cope with combat stress and the rigors of deployment, and return them to duty quickly. “We are tapping into things that [servicemembers] possibly already know, or offering them new skills and techniques they can use at the forward operating base or combat outpost, or after they separate from the military,” said Air Force Tech. Sgt. Mirabel Meekins, the clinic’s operations noncommissioned officer in charge. The clinic hosts a three- to five-day structured program covering many topics, including anger management, common task training, post-traumatic stress disorder awareness and warrior resiliency. The program has a standard outline for all enrolled servicemembers, but also can be tailored to the

Iraq Daily News - February 24, 2009

In this edition: Shaykhs Gather in Baghdad for Security Agreement Conference

Iraqi Soldiers Deliver Needed Food, Supplies to Maysan Province

Monday, 23 February 2009

FOB GARRY OWEN — Iraqi Soldiers traveled to a small town in the Maysan province of southern Iraq to deliver food items and household products to approximately 150 families, Feb. 20.

The 4th Battalion, 38th Iraqi Army (IA) Brigade led the humanitarian mission, along with U.S. Soldiers from the 1st Cavalry Division.

“Many improvements can be made in this area,” said Maj. Ali, a 38th IA company commander in charge of the mission. “The citizens of Al Maymunah still lack basic necessities, such as clean water

Guantanamo Complies With Geneva Conventions, Admiral Says

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Feb. 23, 2009 – The detention facilities at Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, meet all standards of humane treatment and are in compliance with Common Article 3 of the Geneva Conventions, the vice chief of naval operations said today.

Navy Adm. Patrick M. Walsh, vice chief of naval operations, briefs Pentagon reporters on Feb. 23, 2009, about his findings concerning the compliance of the detention facilities at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, with the stipulations contained in the Geneva Conventions. DoD photo by R.D. Ward   (Click photo for screen-resolution image);high-resolution image available.

Navy Adm. Patrick M. Walsh was chosen by Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates to head a team to review and report on the facilities at Guantanamo as part of an executive order President Barack Obama issued Jan. 22.

Predator crashes northeast of Balad

2/23/2009 - JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq (AFNS) -- An Air Force MQ-1 Predator unmanned aircraft stationed here crashed off base at approximately 4:30 p.m. local time Feb. 22.

The Predator is a medium-altitude, long-endurance, remotely piloted aircraft used primarily to conduct armed reconnaissance.

A board will convene to investigate the crash.

Violent Death at 30 year low in Iraq

EDITOR Note: All Violent Deaths in Iraq continues to be half of that of pre-Invasion deaths inflicted on Iraqi Civilians by the Saddam Regime alone in an average month. Violence in Iraq Drops to Six-Year Low By John J. Kruzel, American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Feb. 23, 2009 – Violent attacks in Iraq are at their lowest levels since August 2003, a U.S. commander in Iraq said yesterday. Army Maj. Gen. David Perkins, director for strategic effects at Multinational Force Iraq, told reporters in Baghdad the downtick in violence marks a 90-percent decrease since the surge of U.S. troops began

Fallen Marines awarded Navy Cross

QUANTICO, Va.-JoAnn Lyles (left) accepts the Navy Cross Medal from Secretary of the Navy Donald Winters (right) on behalf of Lance Cpl. Jordan Haerter, during a Navy Cross ceremony at the Museum of the Marine Corps, Feb. 20. “Jonathan and Jordan were shining examples of the finest of America’s next generation,” Winters said. “When faced with danger they had no time to go to their chain of command and no time to assess the situation, they were forced to rely on their discipline and their training.”, Lance Cpl. Casey Jones, 2/20/2009 7:27 AM

 

QUANTICO, Va.-The family of Lance Cpl. Jordan Haerter stands during the Navy Cross ceremony at the Museum of the Marine Corps, Feb. 20. Lance Cpl. Jordan Haerter, was killed in action while defending his post in Ramadi, Iraq, April 22, 2008 against a suicide bomber. To date 27 Navy Crosses have been awarded in the “Global War on Terror.”, Lance Cpl. Casey Jones, 2/20/2009 7:29 AM

2/20/2009  By Lance Cpl. Casey Jones, 2nd Marine Division 

QUANTICO, Va. — 

On October 23, 1983, a determined suicide bomber in a Mercedes-Benz dump truck loaded with more than 10,000 pounds of explosives sped through security checkpoints and posted sentries. The truck exploded in the lobby of the Marine headquarters of the Marine Barracks in Beirut, Lebanon killing 220 Marines, 18 sailors, and 3 soldiers with 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division.

Feb. 21 Airpower Summary

 

Bombs on target: Guiding the bomb

In this file photo, Staff Sgt. Marshall Bonham, a joint terminal attack controller, talks to aircraft pilots via radio transmission. The JTAC is the communications link between Air Force pilots and Army units on the ground. (courtesy photo) 

CLB-2 makes long haul to remote location of Iraq

SAHL SINJAR AIRFIELD, Iraq-Cpl. Corey D. Stewart, a vehicle commander with 4th squad, Security Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 2, provides security during a seven-day long convoy from Al Asad, to Sahl Sinjar and Al Taqaddum, Iraq, Feb. 8-15, 2009. This was the longest convoy accomplished by the battalion since they arrived in country Sept. 2008. (Official Marine Corps photo by Cpl. M. M. Bravo) , Cpl. M. M. Bravo, 2/11/2009 6:44 AM

 

Troops Attend Qatar Camel Races

 

   

U.S. Army Master Sgt. Gregory Lewis-Seals, from Dewitt, N.Y., rides a camel outside a race track in Al Shahaniyah, Qatar, Feb. 21. According to Ali Nasser Al Naimi, a Qatari camel owner, racing camels are generally worth around $20,000 to $275,000. The fastest camels in Qatar are frequently valued over $300,000 – top performers can reach over $2 million.  

War In Iraq Combat News - February 23, 2009

In this edition: ISF discover 3 weapons caches, arrest 13 suspects

Iraqi, U.S. Soldiers conduct combined air-assault

ISF arrest 9 terrorist suspects in northern Iraq

Multi-National Corps – Iraq - BALAD, Iraq – During operations throughout northern Iraq, Iraqi Security Forces, with Coalition forces advisors, arrested nine suspected terrorists under the authority of various Government of Iraq-issued warrants Feb. 11 and 12.
 
“The success of these missions demonstrates the determination of Iraqi Security Forces to thwart

War In Afghanistan Combat News - February 23, 2009

In this edition: Accountability of weapons provided to Afghan National Security Forces

Insurgent leader killed in ISAF operation in Kandahar Province

Investigation Confirms Civilian Casualties in Afghanistan Strike

Elite Afghan soldiers elicit a sense of nationalism

KABUL, Afghanistan - A recent Afghan National Army Commando mission in the Balkh province proved that Afghanistan's military is gaining the support of the country's communities. Commando's of the Afghan National Army's 209th Corps and Coalition Forces met with villagers near Mazar-e-Sharif Monday to provide information about the role the elite Afghan soldiers play in the defense of Afghanistan. The young men of the community showed an outpouring of interest in the Commandos.

After seeing a Commando poster, two young men approached the elite soldiers and took it a step further by stating their intent to join the ranks. The Commandos referred the villagers to an Afghan National Army recruiter, and they began the enlistment process on the spot. The new recruits expressed that their decision was based upon the belief that the Commandos are fighting for the good of the Afghan people.

The young villagers in Mazar-e-Sharif are only two of many Afghan men who have made the decision to step up and fight for the future of this war-torn nation.

"The extremists have ruled this country for far too long," said Abdul Mohammad, a recent graduate of the Commando training school near Kabul. "I became a Commando because I have had enough. I am tired of living in fear for myself and for the lives of my wife and children."

Mohammad, a former Kabul shopkeeper, said becoming a soldier has left him with a sense of nationalism he never knew before.

"When I first arrived here, the men beside me were Pashtun and Tajik and Uzbek," he said. "Today, they are simply my Commando brothers. We all share a common enemy, so only together can we defeat the militants and live in peace."

More than 3,600 Afghan men have graduated since the elite soldier program's inception in January 2007.  Source: US Forces Afghanistan Public Affairs

Insurgent leader killed in ISAF operation in Kandahar Province

KABUL, Afghanistan - It has been confirmed that an insurgent leader was killed during an Afghan National Security Forces-led operation near Ghoresh, in Kandahar Province earlier this week.

The operation, supported by ISAF forces, was to apprehend the insurgent Mullah Mahmood.  Mahmood facilitated and directed the placement of Improvised Explosive Devices within Kandahar Province, risking the lives of  Afghan civilians, as well as Afghan National Security Forces and ISAF troops. He also had a known history of manipulating Afghans into becoming suicide bombers and was linked to numerous crimes in the area.

During the operation, Mahmood was given the option to surrender peacefully, but instead attempted to attack security forces and was killed. Fortunately, no civilian casualties resulted from his last act of violence.

Brigadier-General Richard Blanchette, ISAF Spokesperson, said: “The success of this operation shows the people of Afghanistan, and more precisely within Kandahar Province, that security and stability is of the utmost importance to the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.”

“With Mahmood no longer operating in the area, the Insurgents’ ability to conduct operations will be significantly degraded in Kandahar province. The most important outcome from this operation is the benefit to the Afghan people.  Their safety has improved as Mahmood’s blatant disregard for the lives of innocent civilians has been brought to an end.”

Accountability of weapons provided to Afghan National Security Forces

The spokesperson for the Combined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan (CSTC-A) stated today that the Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF) and CSTC-A have procedures to properly account for weapons provided to the ANSF.

From 2002 to August of 2007, weapons provided to the ANSF were accounted for by quantity. Since then, CSTC-A receives, registers, issues and accounts for all weapons by serial number, according to Lt. Col. Chris Kubik.

CSTC-A personnel assist and mentor their Afghan counterparts in proper weapons accountability procedures, verify compliance with Afghan ministerial decrees to report on weapons accountability, and report the results during monthly readiness reporting to the CSTC-A Commanding General. According to Kubik, for their part, the Afghan National Security Forces have demonstrated a commitment to properly account for weapons. The Ministries of Defense and Interior have formally established programs in place, with senior Ministry emphasis, to verify weapons accountability. In addition, said Kubik, Afghan Minister of Defense Wardak has verified proper documentation of weapons inventories by serial number in Afghan National Army Corps formations since late 2003, based on a long-standing tradition of weapons accountability. The date also coincides with the beginning of the Defense Ministry's reform.
 
In a recent Government Accountability Office audit of accountability of weapons provided by the United States and the international community to the ANSF, Afghan National Security Forces and CSTC-A personnel physically accounted for 296 of 330 weapons (90%) in a random sample, without full access to all areas in Afghanistan due to security. Kubik added, "I am confident that we have systems in place and are taking proper steps to ensure weapons accountability. Additionally, any speculation that significant numbers of weapons have fallen into enemy hands is not true."

CSTC-A leaders, trainers and mentors at every level continue to assess and adjust mechanisms and systems, in accordance with current policies and procedures, to ensure proper accountability of weapons.

Investigation Confirms Civilian Casualties in Afghanistan Strike American Forces Press Service KABUL, Afghanistan, Feb. 21, 2009 – An investigation into a Feb. 17 coalition air strike in Afghanistan’s Heart province has confirmed that 13 noncombatants and three enemy fighters were killed, military officials reported. Army Brig. Gen. Michael A. Ryan of U.S. Forces Afghanistan offers his condolences Feb. 20, 2009, to families of those killed during an operation targeting insurgents three days earlier in Afghanistan’s Herat province. U.S. Army photo   (Click photo for screen-resolution image);high-resolution image available. A combined Afghan National Army and coalition forces investigation team, accompanied by international observers, inspected the site this week to determine the identities of those killed. Investigators found weapons and ammunition at the site, and Afghan army officers met with village leaders following the incident. “We expressed our deepest condolences to the survivors of the noncombatants who were killed during this operation,” Army Brig. Gen. Michael Ryan of U.S. Forces Afghanistan said at the site of the attack after speaking with local villagers and family members there. “Our inquiry in Herat demonstrates how seriously we take our responsibility in conducting operations against militant targets and the occurrence of noncombatant casualties,” the general said. “Our concern is for the security of the Afghan people. To this end, we continually evaluate the operations we conduct during the course of our mission in Afghanistan and have agreed to coordinate our efforts jointly.” Ryan also met with the senior provincial army and police commanders, and separately with the governor of Herat, to discuss the attack. (From a U.S. Forces Afghanistan news release.)

Related Sites: U.S. Forces Afghanistan Related Articles: Afghanistan Operations Leave 18 Militants Dead

Army Brig. Gen. Michael A. Ryan of U.S. Forces Afghanistan offers his condolences Feb. 20, 2009, to families of those killed during an operation targeting insurgents three days earlier in Afghanistan’s Herat province. U.S. Army photo   Download screen-resolution    Download high-resolution DoD Identifies Army Casualties             The Department of Defense announced the deaths of two soldiers who were supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.               Staff Sgt. Jeremy E. Bessa, 26, of Woodridge IL, died Feb. 20, in Khordi, Afghanistan, when his military vehicle was struck by an improvised explosive device followed by small arms fire attack by enemy forces.               Master Sgt. David L. Hurt, 36, of Tucson, AZ, died Feb. 20, in Kandahar, Afghanistan, from wounds received during the same incident.               They were assigned to 1st Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne), Fort Bragg, N.C.

Afghanistan Daily News - February 23, 2009

In this edition: Rise of the Phoenix in Afghanistan

ISAF, ANP put it in writing in RC South

Grass-roots paper growing with help from ISAF

Bagram Air Field, Afghanistan - Gulzaman Nuristani, a post employee at Forward Operating Base Bostic, reads the latest edition of the Woless Arman. The newspaper keeps local Afghan people up to date on the development and progress of Afghanistan. (ISAF photo)

KABUL, Afghanistan - Troops from 6th Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment provide resources to assist Afghans with a local newspaper which helps spread the word about the progress of the nation in Regional Command East.  

The Woless Arman, which means the Desire of the People, is a weekly newspaper that reaches an audience of more than 1,000 Afghans in four districts, offering news and information to the citizens in the surrounding area.

“The Woless Arman is a weekly publication that speaks about International Security Assistance Forces, Afghan National Security Forces, government and development issues,” said Army Captain. Justin Mendoza, Squadron Fire Support Officer for 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division from Chicago, Ill. “It gives the people an opportunity to keep current on events in and around the area.”

The writing of stories, layout, design and printing of the publication is done at Forward Operating Base Bostic by local Afghan workers.  It is then released to the public.

“The paper is distributed each Friday to the surrounding districts,” said Ajmal Nuristani, interpreter for the publication. "We distribute 1,500 copies to Nari, Kamdesh, Barg Matal and Ghazi Abad Districts.”

The paper is non-profit and has been in existence for more than four years. It originally consisted of four pages, but recently expanded its size to get more information to the people. Eight pages are now produced weekly to give a larger amount of information.

“The main focus of the paper is the development and progress of Afghanistan,” Nuristani said.  "We also include a police report so people know about crimes being committed in the area.”

The paper is important because it informs the Afghan people of the region about the development of their nation, but it is also important to get information to the people about activities the military is involved with.

The Afghan people trust the paper and its contents, but there is some resistance to it by militants that concerns the producers of the publication.

“The people of the villages trust the paper. The Taliban are against the paper and against us.  We have to be careful when we go out,” Uwlah said.

Despite the resistance and caution that must be taken, the publishers said they will continue to produce the publication to keep the people informed.

“We will keep making the newspaper," Uwlah said.  “We need to tell the people about their country and what is happening here.”

Rise of the Phoenix in Afghanistan

U.S. Army Brigadier General Steven Huber, Combined Joint Task Force Phoenix VIII commander, talks with members of a Police Mentor Team about communications in the western region. Huber toured the region 18 -20 Feb to talk with troops and assess Afghan National Security Forces mentoring and training programs. (ISAF photo)

KABUL, Afghanistan - Brigadier General Steven P. Huber, commander of Combined Joint Task Force Phoenix VIII and native of Chicago, Ill., visited the 33rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team in Herat, Shindand and Bala Baluk to evaluate his concerns about force protection, troop safety, manning, soldier care, communications and property accountability, Feb. 18-20.

Before returning to Task Force Phoenix Headquarters in Kabul, he met with ISAF Regional Command West Commander Italian Army Brigadier General Paolo Serra at Camp Arena in Herat. They discussed cooperative efforts surrounding the influx of new troops to the region.

“TF Phoenix is basically going to double,” said Huber in regards to troop increases. “Right now we have one brigade-sized element that comes in and resources with additions from other sources like Air Force, Navy, some Marines, and then contractors. Soon they are going to have two brigades doing what we are doing with one, and it is going to be a huge shot in the arm for Phoenix. It will allow us to fill the gaps we are experiencing today.”

According to Huber, the inflow of troops will begin in April and will conclude when the last of the second brigade, an active duty brigade, arrives in September.

“There are a lot of plans in place to establish an infrastructure designed to support the increases,” said Huber. “It starts with land management, where are we going to put this, are we adding on or starting from scratch in various places. We mainly expect to expand existing forward operating bases.”

Huber and Serra discussed the possibility of some incoming soldiers staying at the Forward Support Base, RC-W headquarters, to assist with flight operations.

“My main concerns in the west haven't changed,” said Huber. “I didn't get to see everybody this trip, but I'll be back. I haven't been up to the north, to Bala Morghab or Changacharan yet, and would also like to get down to Farah. TF Phoenix is not there, but we have some Illinois folks down there on a Provincial Reconstruction Team mission. They are working for General Serra on the ISAF side, but they are our folks and we want to get there to see how they are doing.”

Task Force Phoenix is currently run by a U.S. Army Guard unit from Illinois. It has almost 3,000 personnel assigned to it in country and commands and controls approximately 5,000 others.

ISAF, ANP put it in writing in RC South

KABUL, Afghanistan - International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) Regional Command South Commander Major General Mart de Kruif and regional Afghan military leaders signed a new agreement outlining a commitment to aid each other in Afghan-led military operations 21 February.

"The Joint Partnering Directive was cited as a symbolic effort to “reinforce what we’ve been doing for the last few months,” General De Kruif said. “We meet every week to discuss all kinds of different issues and the signing of this document is the essence of partnering.”

Brigadier General Shir Mohammed Zazai, Commander, 205th Hero Corps, Afghan National Army as well as Brigadier General Mirwais, the Deputy Regional Chief of Police; and Brigadier General Saifullah Hakim, Commander of the 3rd District Afghan Border Police were present to sign the document.

General De Kruif further explained that ISAF’s role is progressively moving into the supportive role for which Afghan forces can take the lead on military operations.

“Our job has always been to assist,” he said. “We are seeing this more and more and when we talk about security, we look at operations brought by the Afghan military, with ISAF to support. In the end we all take responsibility over any operation, successful or not.”

The Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF) in the south have been conducting operations with ISAF. Therefore, the joint directive is seen as a significant step forward. Philosophically and practically, it anchors the already strong and productive partnering achieved between Regional Command South and the ANSF.

Iraq Daily News - February 23, 2009

In this edition: Iraqi SWAT Delivers Medical Supplies, Toys New Clinic Provides Care for Six Villages New Water Reservoir to Serve Thousands Riverine SWAT deliver medical supplies, cheer to children’s hospital Two Iraqi school buildings refurbished, dedicated Modern School Provides Opportunities for Kurdish Children

Sunday, 22 February 2009

To improve the learning environment and overall welfare of about 35 elementary school students in Kani Mayor Village, Kurdish Regional Government leaders and U.S. forces opened the doors to a new schoolhouse complete with instructor-living quarters, Feb. 12. Photo by Seaman Zachary Hernandez, Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force - Arabian Peninsula. KURDISTAN — Kurdish Regional Government (KRG) leaders and Coalition forces inaugurated the first, permanent educational facility here in the mountainous region of Kani Mayor Village, Feb. 12. The new school supports the growing educational needs and serves as a platform for the future economic stability of this village and the surrounding communities of Panjwin. “When decent schools are not available for their children, parents have traditionally packed up and

Feb. 20 Airpower Summary

The A-10 Thunderbolt II is the first Air Force aircraft specially designed for close-air-support of ground forces. They are simple, effective and survivable twin-engine jet aircraft that can be used against all ground targets. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Greg L. Davis)

NATO Civilian Defence Chiefs Discuss Afghanistan

Defence Ministers discuss key priorities in Afghanistan

NATO Defence Ministers discussed with their ISAF partners the key challenges in Afghanistan and stressed their strong commitment to support the August elections, a strategic priority of the Afghan people and the international community.

In an informal meeting in Krakow (Poland), Ministers welcomed the US announcement of more troops to Afghanistan and agreed that there is also a need for an equal civilian surge : more development,

Obama Stresses Importance of Afghanistan Mission

Obama: Bilateral Cooperation Critical to Enduring Mission in Afghanistan By Donna Miles American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Feb. 20, 2009 – President Barack Obama emphasized in Canada yesterday the importance of strong bilateral cooperation to confront global challenges, calling the situation in Afghanistan among the most pressing. “There is an enduring military mission against al-Qaida and the Taliban in Afghanistan and along the border regions between Afghanistan and Pakistan,” Obama said during a joint news conference in Ottawa with Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper. Obama said he ordered an additional 17,000 U.S. troops to Afghanistan last week over concerns about

Soldier, Family Center Underscores Nation's Commitment, Chairman Says

FORT CAMPBELL, Ky. - The construction of a new Soldier and Family Assistance Center here underscores the nation's commitment to those who sacrifice so much, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said during a groundbreaking ceremony yesterday.

"The entire capability of the SFAC -- but the broader commitment to men and women who've been wounded and the support of their families -- is one we have spoken to [and] have invested in," Navy Adm. Mike Mullen said. "Today is certainly a critical day in terms of meeting that commitment."

Quartermasters Rebuild, Use Mobile Kitchen Trailer

CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE Q-WEST, Iraq - Soldiers from the 574th Quartermaster Co., 30th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 16th Sustainment Brigade cooked out in their newly renovated mobile kitchen trailer at the unit’s change of command ceremony here, Feb. 14.

The 574th Quartermasters Co., from Grafenwoehr, Germany, delpoyed to Q-West in late July, and fell in on an MKT that had not been used for over two years. The MKT was covered with dirt, rust, and numerous parts were broken.

Robots remove UXO from training ranges in demo

The All-Purpose Remote Transport System, or ARTS, is remotely operated and can maneuver different attachments to safely remove vegetation in an area that contains UXO.   Photo credit Army

Feb. 19 airpower summary

 

An Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon conducts close-air support operations over Iraq Feb. 17 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. James L. Harper Jr.) 

 

Feb. 19 airpower summary: F-16s protect coalition

Iraq Combat News - February 22, 2009

In this edition

IA patrol leads to large weapons Cache (Dujaylah)

ISF arrest suspected criminal, discover munitions

VIDEO AVAILABLE: Leaders meet in Tikrit to discuss new SoI registration process

10,000th Life-Saving MRAP Fielded

Video Available: 10,000th MRAP Fielding Ceremony

Iraqi Army displays Live Fire in Amarah

 

Wall Warrior

Iraq Daily News - February 22, 2009

In this edition

Women’s Bazaar helps local Iraqi families

Market Relieves Congestion, Generates Cash

Video story: Women-owned business expands in Iraq (Baghdad)

Ministry of Interior graduates 91 from Inspector General course

 

 

Drawing Pictures

 

Women’s Bazaar helps local Iraqi families

BAGHDAD – Women of the Mahmudiyah Qada filled tables with homemade products and Iraqi souvenirs during a special bazaar on Forward Operation Base Mahmudiyah, south of Baghdad, Feb 17.  

The Other Working Dogs of Iraq

Sgt. 1st Class Boe is a therapy dog at Contigency Operating Base Speicher, Iraq, helping Soldiers of 1-185th Armor (Combined Arms Battalion), 81st Brigade Combat Team, California Army National Guard, feel at home.

Afghanistan Daily News - February 22, 2009

In this edition

International aid brings life-saving medical equipment to Afghanistan

1st Infantry Division Helps Produce Afghan Newspaper to Inform Local Citizens

International aid brings life-saving medical equipment to Afghanistan

 

New medical equipment, donated by Estonia, arrives at the newly refurbished Bost Hospital in Lashkar Gah, Helmand province. (ISAF photo) 

War In Afghanistan Combat News - February 22, 2009

In this edition

Senior Insurgent Killed in International Security Assistance Force Operation in Lowgar Province

Women’s History Month: Military women reflect on service achievements

Senior Insurgent Killed in International Security Assistance Force Operation in Lowgar Province

KABUL, Afghanistan – It has been confirmed that a senior insurgent was killed and five others were detained during an Afghan national security forces-led operation near Bagh-e-soltan village, in Lowgar province today.

Fort Campbell Center Represents Benchmark in Treatment

FORT CAMPBELL, Ky. - A tour of the Traumatic Brain Injury Warrior Resiliency and Recovery Center yesterday made a favorable impression on the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

In fact, the program is something he said should be spread across the force.

Air Force efforts put nuclear security back on track

by Samantha L. Quigley
American Forces Press Service

2/20/2009 - MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. (AFNS) -- Prioritization and "incredible attention to detail" have restored "nuclear surety" in the Air Force, the general in charge of the service's nuclear program said here Feb. 19. 

Nuclear surety is the equipment, people and processes aimed at ensuring the safety, security, reliability and control of nuclear weapons.

Run4Chance- "Team Semper Fi" runs in a charity race to support a fallen brother