War On Terror News

AFG Safe Driving Procedures

International Security Assistance Force Commander Issues Driving Directive and Theatre Driving Principles

International Security Assistance Force HQ Public Affairs

08.30.2009 KABUL, Afghanistan – The International Security Assistance Force Commander, Gen. Stanley McChrystal, has issued a directive stating his requirements for all ISAF personnel to adhere to appropriate legal driving procedures and behaviour in Afghanistan.

"The manner in which ISAF forces interact with and treat the Afghan people directly correlates to our ability to earn their trust and support. ISAF forces are highly conspicuous when travelling in vehicles and I expect ISAF members to drive in ways that respect the safety and well-being of the Afghan people," said McChrystal.

In his guidance, McChrystal emphasizes safe driving to be an essential ingredient in the successful prosecution of the ISAF mission. "Safe and considerate driving represents a visible and tangible sign of our commitment to the people of Afghanistan," McChrystal said.

The Theatre Driving Principles direct ISAF personnel to adhere to safe driving practices, such as respecting Afghan traffic rules and regulations, driving at an appropriate speed, and driving defensively. It is the responsibility of every member in the chain of command to encourage and reinforce a culture of safe driving with ISAF, the directive concludes.

Iraq Morphis Makes Maximum Contribution

13th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary)

08.29.2009 JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq – Although many service members donate platelets at the hospital here at Joint Base Balad, Iraq, one Soldier has reached his maximum allowance.

Warrant Officer David C. Morphis, a native of Victorville, Calif., and a command food-service technician with the 304th Sustainment Brigade, donated platelets for the 24th time this year – the maximum number of donations allowed in 12 months.

Deployment time constraints prevent most service members from reaching 24 donations in a year, but Morphis said he has a history of consistent donation.

"I used to donate blood regularly when I was in the states," said Morphis. "I enjoy doing it because I know that my blood goes many different ways. In fact, out here they only take platelets, because platelets last longer."

Blogs You Might Check Out

Here are some but not all (how much reading time do you think I have each day....hmm??) of our blogs we link to.  I went down the list quickly starting with our Afghanistan blogs to see what might be of interest to you.  Well.......how about what I found to be of interest to me!

RIP SPC Abraham S. Wheeler III

DoD Identifies Army Casualty

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

Spc. Abraham S. Wheeler III, 22, of Columbia, S.C., died Aug. 28 in Logar province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked his vehicle with an improvised explosive device.  He was assigned to the 3rd Squadron, 71st Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry), Fort Drum, N.Y.

He which hath no stomach to this fight let him depart. But we in it shall be remembered. We few, we happy few, we band of brothers!! For he today, that sheds his blood with me, shall always be my brother”. Rest in peace my Brothers, you have not been forgotten. (W.Shakespeare)

Where will you leave your legacy?

Commentary by Maj. James Turner 39th Force Support Squadron commander

8/28/2009 - INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey (AFNS)  -- About a year ago, a course instructor at the Air Command and Staff College asked my classmates and me a question: "Where will you leave your legacy?"
The question was asked in the context of a class regarding leadership in command. Although none of us were slated to command immediately following school, each person in the seminar had the opportunity to provide a response to the instructor's question.

Comments from my classmates varied quite a bit, but my response was definitely the one that came out of left field. My reply was simple, "I don't intend to leave a legacy with my command. If I'm going to leave any legacy, it will be with my family."

Pak: 16 Police Recruits Murdered by Taliban

Suicide Blast Kills 16 in Pakistan's Swat Valley
By Ayaz Gul Islamabad 30 August 2009

Officials in Pakistan say a suicide bomb has killed at least 16 police recruits in the Swat region, where Taliban insurgents have had their stronghold until recently. This is the second major suicide bombing in the country's northwest within the past week, raising fears Taliban militants have regrouped and are hitting back.

Provincial Information Minister Iftikhar Hussain tells VOA the deadly suicide attack in Mingora, the main town of the Swat Valley, targeted a police training facility and instantly killed 14 people.

The minister says that up to 70 volunteers for a new community police force were holding their daily

Cheney: Interogation Technique Policy Was Moral and Legal

Cheney Criticizes Probe of Bush-Era CIA Interrogators
By Michael Bowman VoA News Washington 30 August 2009

Former U.S. Vice President Dick Cheney says the Obama administration's decision to open a criminal probe of U.S. interrogators in the war on terror is politically motivated and detrimental to America's national security.

In an interview on U.S. television, Cheney was blunt when asked about the Justice Department's decision to investigate Central Intelligence Agency operatives who interrogated terror suspects during the former Bush administration.

Pic Of The Day: Joint Ops

As it turns out, these guys were delaying departure while we were being delayed from arrival by higher HQ.  They had mopped up some bad guys, had worked with us before, and wanted to say hello in the high desert.  Higher was afraid that we'd be all messed up and start shooting each other while we both sported 4x6 US Flags.  A lack of trust in the Troops to not shoot each other by the O's in the rear kept both elements outside the wire for a couple extra days.  Then again, outside the wire, you can shoot your enemies and inside the wire, you salute them.  So maybe it did work out for the best.

Fighter Pilot Requests Permission to Buzz the Tower of Inequality

Story by Sgt. Keith VanKlompenberg  13th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary)

08.29.2009  JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq – Representative Bella Abzug once said, "Women will not simply be mainstreamed into the polluted stream. Women are changing the stream, making it clean and green and safe for all – every gender, race, creed, sexual orientation, age and ability."

Soldiers and Airmen gathered to celebrate the anniversary of women's suffrage at the Women's Equality Day Luncheon Aug. 26 at Joint Base Balad, Iraq.

Women's Equality Day legislation was introduced by Abzug and established in 1971 by President Jimmy Carter, and honors the ratification of the 19th Amendment to the Constitution, which gave women the right to vote Aug. 26, 1920.

31 AUG 2009 #MoS Moments of Silence #MilitaryMon 1300-1321 Eastern

1 PM Eastern is Kabul 21:30/9:30PM, Baghdad 20:00/8PM, London 18:00/6PM, San Diego 10AM

He which hath no stomach to this fight let him depart. But we in it shall be rememberd. We few, we happy few, we band of brothers!! For he today, that sheds his blood with me, shall always be my brother”. Rest in peace my Brothers, you have not been forgotten. (W.Shakespeare)

 

 

REQUEST that all afford my Brothers a Moment of Silence each on Monday 31 AUG 2009 beginning 1:00 PM, Eastern Time.  REQUEST that each Moment of Silence be dedicated each Monday to my Fallen Brothers in order of noticification since prior Monday. 

• #MilitaryMon #MoS 1PM to 1:02 EDT: PFC #Bowe Bergdahl, Kidnapped by Taliban, Two Minutes for the Living until he comes home
• #MilitaryMon #MoS 1:02-1:03 EDT, Sjt Paul McAleese , UK 8/20/09, KIA, Sangin, AFG, 2BN, The Rifles, UK
• #MilitaryMon #MoS 1:03-1:04 EDT, Pvt Jonathon Young, 8/15/09, KIA, Sangin, AFG, 3BN Yorkshire RGT, UK
• #MilitaryMon #MoS 1:04-1:05 EDT, SPC Justin Pellerin, Boscawen, NH, 8/20/09, Wardak, AFG, KIA, 10th MTN Div 
• #MilitaryMon #MoS 1:05-1:06 EDT, SGT Matthew Ingram, Pearl, MS 8/21/09 Kunar, AFG, 4th ID 
• #MilitaryMon #MoS 1:06-1:07 EDT,SPC Troy Tom, Shiprock, NM, KIA 8/18/09, Angahar, AFG 2nd ID
• #MilitaryMon #MoS 1:07-1:08 EDT, PFC Jonathan Yanney, Litchfield, MN, KIA 8/18/09, Arghanhab, AFG, 2nd ID
• #MilitaryMon #MoS 1:08-1:09 EDT, SSG Andrew Lobosco, Somerville, NJ, 8/22/09, KIA, Yakhchal, AFG, 7th SFG(A)
• #MilitaryMon #MoS 1:09-1:10 EDT, 2LT Joseph Fortin, St Johnsbury, VT, 8/23/09, KIA Muhallah, Iraq,  1st Cav Div
• #MilitaryMon #MoS 1:10-1:11 EDT, CPL Darby Morin, Victoria, CAN, 8/22/09, KIA, Logar, AFG, 10th MTN Div
• #MilitaryMon #MoS 1:11-1:12 EDT, LCpl Donald Hogan, San Clemente, CA, 8/26, Helmand, AFG, 1 MAR Div 
• #MilitaryMon #MoS 1:12-1:13 EDT, Fusilier Shaun Bush, UK, 8/25/09, DOW, Helmand, AFG, 2BN, RRF
• #MilitaryMon #MoS 1:13-1:14 EDT, CPT John Hallet, CA, KIA, 8/25/09, South AFG, 2nd ID 
• #MilitaryMon #MoS 1:14-1:15 EDT CPT Cory Jenkins, AZ, KIA, 8/25/09, South AFG, 2nd ID 
• #MilitaryMon #MoS 1:15-1:16 EDT SFC Ronald Sawyer, Trenton, MO, KIA, 8/25/09, South AFG, 2nd ID 
• #MilitaryMon #MoS 1:16-1:17 EDT PFC Dennis Williams, Federal Way, WA, 8/25/09, South AFG, 2nd ID 
• #MilitaryMon #MoS 1:17-1:18 EDT PFC Matthew Wildes, Hammond, LA, KIA 8/27/09, AFG, 4th ID
• #MilitaryMon #MoS 1:18-1:19 EDT SSG Kurt Curtiss, Murray, UT, Paktika, AFG, 25th ID 
• #MilitaryMon #MoS 1:19-1:20 EDT SGT Earl Werner, Mondovi, WI, 8/28/09, Rashid, Iraq, 41st Inf BCT
• #MilitaryMon #MoS 1:20-1:21 EDT PVT Taylor Marks, Monmouth, OR, 8/28/09, Rashid, Iraq, 41st BCT

1 PM Eastern is Kabul 21:30/9:30PM, Baghdad 20:00/8PM, London 18:00/6PM, San Diego 10AM.  This time was raised on Twitter and on this site.  The ensuing discussion demonstrated support for the  change in time to accomodate those in London, Baghdad, & Kabul, as well as Congress. 

Please Remember, the Moments of Silence are in Honor of Our Fallen.  It is a collaborative effort in recognition of their sacrifice and the families effected by it.  It is encouraged to tweet only the above during their INDIVIDUAL moments.

He which hath no stomach to this fight let him depart. But we in it shall be rememberd. We few, we happy few, we band of brothers!! For he today, that sheds his blood with me, shall always be my brother”. Rest in peace my Brothers, you have not been forgotten. (W.Shakespeare)

 

 

REQUEST that all afford my Brothers a Moment of Silence each on Monday 31 AUG 2009 beginning 1:00 PM, Eastern Time.  REQUEST that each Moment of Silence be dedicated each Monday to my Fallen Brothers in order of noticification since prior Monday. 

• #MilitaryMon #MoS 1PM to 1:02 EDT: PFC #Bowe Bergdahl, Kidnapped by Taliban, Two Minutes for the Living until he comes home
• #MilitaryMon #MoS 1:02-1:03 EDT, Sjt Paul McAleese , UK 8/20/09, KIA, Sangin, AFG, 2BN, The Rifles, UK
• #MilitaryMon #MoS 1:03-1:04 EDT, Pvt Jonathon Young, 8/15/09, KIA, Sangin, AFG, 3BN Yorkshire RGT, UK
• #MilitaryMon #MoS 1:04-1:05 EDT, SPC Justin Pellerin, Boscawen, NH, 8/20/09, Wardak, AFG, KIA, 10th MTN Div 
• #MilitaryMon #MoS 1:05-1:06 EDT, SGT Matthew Ingram, Pearl, MS 8/21/09 Kunar, AFG, 4th ID 
• #MilitaryMon #MoS 1:06-1:07 EDT,SPC Troy Tom, Shiprock, NM, KIA 8/18/09, Angahar, AFG 2nd ID
• #MilitaryMon #MoS 1:07-1:08 EDT, PFC Jonathan Yanney, Litchfield, MN, KIA 8/18/09, Arghanhab, AFG, 2nd ID
• #MilitaryMon #MoS 1:08-1:09 EDT, SSG Andrew Lobosco, Somerville, NJ, 8/22/09, KIA, Yakhchal, AFG, 7th SFG(A)
• #MilitaryMon #MoS 1:09-1:10 EDT, 2LT Joseph Fortin, St Johnsbury, VT, 8/23/09, KIA Muhallah, Iraq,  1st Cav Div
• #MilitaryMon #MoS 1:10-1:11 EDT, CPL Darby Morin, Victoria, CAN, 8/22/09, KIA, Logar, AFG, 10th MTN Div
• #MilitaryMon #MoS 1:11-1:12 EDT, LCpl Donald Hogan, San Clemente, CA, 8/26, Helmand, AFG, 1 MAR Div 
• #MilitaryMon #MoS 1:12-1:13 EDT, Fusilier Shaun Bush, UK, 8/25/09, DOW, Helmand, AFG, 2BN, RRF
• #MilitaryMon #MoS 1:13-1:14 EDT, CPT John Hallet, CA, KIA, 8/25/09, South AFG, 2nd ID 
• #MilitaryMon #MoS 1:14-1:15 EDT CPT Cory Jenkins, AZ, KIA, 8/25/09, South AFG, 2nd ID 
• #MilitaryMon #MoS 1:15-1:16 EDT SFC Ronald Sawyer, Trenton, MO, KIA, 8/25/09, South AFG, 2nd ID 
• #MilitaryMon #MoS 1:16-1:17 EDT PFC Dennis Williams, Federal Way, WA, 8/25/09, South AFG, 2nd ID 
• #MilitaryMon #MoS 1:17-1:18 EDT PFC Matthew Wildes, Hammond, LA, KIA 8/27/09, AFG, 4th ID
• #MilitaryMon #MoS 1:18-1:19 EDT SSG Kurt Curtiss, Murray, UT, Paktika, AFG, 25th ID 
• #MilitaryMon #MoS 1:19-1:20 EDT SGT Earl Werner, Mondovi, WI, 8/28/09, Rashid, Iraq, 41st Inf BCT
• #MilitaryMon #MoS 1:20-1:21 EDT PVT Taylor Marks, Monmouth, OR, 8/28/09, Rashid, Iraq, 41st BCT

1 PM Eastern is Kabul 21:30/9:30PM, Baghdad 20:00/8PM, London 18:00/6PM, San Diego 10AM.  This time was raised on Twitter and on this site.  The ensuing discussion demonstrated support for the  change in time to accomodate those in London, Baghdad, & Kabul, as well as Congress. 

Please Remember, the Moments of Silence are in Honor of Our Fallen.  It is a collaborative effort in recognition of their sacrifice and the families effected by it.  It is encouraged to tweet only the above during their INDIVIDUAL moments.

Yemen: Situation Detoriates

Humanitarian Situation Deteriorating in Northern Yemen
By Lisa Schlein VoA News Geneva 28 August 2009

Yemenis uprooted by conflict in the north over recent weeks queue for registration for humanitarian aid (file photo)

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees is appealing for safe corridors in northern Yemen as the humanitarian situation in the area of conflict continues to deteriorate. UN humanitarian agencies say getting aid to those displaced by the fighting remains difficult.

The UN reports fighting between the government and al-Houthi rebels is ongoing both inside Saada city and its surroundings.  The UN refugee agency says this northern Yemen town has been practically cut off from the rest of the world for a week.

The UN refugee agency says the warring parties have rejected a cease-fire and vow to continue their hostilities. Spokesman, Andrej Mahecic says that is why High Commissioner, Antonio Guterres is renewing his call for safe corridors in northern Yemen.

He says such corridors would allow civilians to leave the conflict zone. It also would allow humanitarian workers to deliver much needed humanitarian aid to thousands of

MARATHON TRAINING UPDATE‏

 

Supporters and friends,

 

I wanted to take a minute to give you all a training update for our upcoming Marine Corps Marathon.  Rene, Dave, Joshua, and I have been right on track with our long runs every Sunday.  While most normal people are asleep and dreaming, I'm kicking my 16 year old son Joshua out of bed at 0500.  We jell up with our pre-run supplements and climb into our car and drive to Manassas, Va., which is the mid-way point to meet up with our team mates Rene and Dave.

Iraq: 15 Civilians Killed by Enemy

Explosions in Northern Iraq Claim More Lives
By Edward Yeranian VoA News Cairo 29 August 2009

Two separate explosions in northern Iraq have killed at least 15 people and wounded 30 others Saturday, as the security situation across the country remains tense. Iraqi political leaders and ordinary citizens condemned the recent rise in violence.

Bomb attacks in two northern Iraqi towns have caused more deaths and injuries Saturday, while the security situation across the country remains tense.

Baghdad TV showed pools of blood and chunks of cinderblock from the explosion of a bomb in the

Holbrooke Demonstrates He Can't Diplome w/Karzai

US Envoy, Afghan Incumbent President Have Tense Exchange Over Runoff
By VOA News 28 August 2009

A private lunch meeting between incumbent Afghan President Hamid Karzai and U.S. envoy Richard Holbrooke is reported to have turned testy when Holbrooke raised the issue of vote-rigging and fraud.

A U.S. official said the day after the August 20 Afghan election, Holbrooke urged Mr. Karzai to "respect the election process" whatever the result, whether or not a runoff was necessary. The official said Mr. Karzai reacted angrily.

A U.S. state department spokeswoman, Caitlin Hayden, denied reports that Mr. Karzai had stormed out of the meeting.  She reiterated the administration's previous statements of neutrality on the election outcome.

Suicide Bombers Meet Early Demise in Pakistan

Pakistan Says Suicide Bomber Training Camp Destroyed
By VOA News 29 August 2009

SWAT Valley

Pakistan's military says it has destroyed a training camp for suicide bombers in the Swat Valley.

The army said in a statement that reports from intelligence sources and local residents led them to the location in northwest Pakistan.

They said six militants were killed in the operation and several others were wounded.

Pakistan's government has been fighting a Taliban insurgency in the northwest.

Friday Britain pledged $1 billion in aid to help stabilize Pakistan's violent border regions and to address the underlying causes of extremism.

British Prime Minister Gordon Brown confirmed the pledge during a meeting in London with Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari.

A spokesman for Mr. Zardari, Farhatullah Babar, also called for better access to European Union markets to help boost Pakistan's economy.

#Afghan09 Karzai Lead Continues to Grow

Incumbent President Increases Lead in Latest Release of Afghan Election Vote Tallies
By Steve Herman VoA News Kabul 29 August 2009

Afghanistan's President Hamid Karzai saw his lead increase to 46 percent of the vote in the latest batch of results released by the country's Independent Election Commission. That is still below the more than 50 percent he will need to avoid a runoff election with former foreign minister Abdullah Abdullah.

Election officials say they have now processed ballots from more than one-third of polling stations nationwide and just more than two million votes have been deemed valid.

The director of the Independent Election Commission, Dauod Ali Najafi, announced the vote totals to reporters in Kabul Saturday evening. "Mr. Hamid Karzai has received 940,558 votes," he said.

That equals 46.3 percent of total valid votes tabulated so far.

Challenger Abdullah's 638,924 votes - just over 31 percent. There are a number of other candidates far behind.

Gitmo: Staff Provide 24/7 1st Rate Medical Care to Detainees

JTC Provides High Level of Care

Joint Task Force Guantanamo Public Affairs by Sgt. Andrew Hillegass 08.21.2009

GUANTANAMO BAY, Cuba – With a considerable number of service members deployed at U.S. Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, it takes a large number of doctors, dentists and nurses to treat any injury or ailment that might prevent them from completing their mission.

The task of helping to care for the bumps, bruises and sprained ankles of service members deployed to Joint Task Force Guantanamo falls to the Joint Trooper Clinic.

Although many people think the JTF medical staff's primary mission is the health and well-being of the detainees at Joint Task Force Guantanamo's detention facilities, their focus is not purely on detainee well-being. They also assist in caring for personnel who may have medical needs ranging from toothaches to broken bones.

"[The JTC] is a split responsibility between the [525th Military Police Battalion and the Joint Medical

Iraq: Troops Bring Solar Purified Water to People

Spartans See to Clean Water, Fresh Start

Multi-National Division Baghdad by Staff Sgt. Mark Burrell 08.30.2009

BAGHDAD – A series of intertwined, water-filled canals create a patchwork of green fields, abundant in crops near the section of al-Zooba, here, in Baghdad.

The intricate irrigation system provides essential water to the local farms but not to its inhabitants.

"Potable water makes the difference between getting disease. For us, it's the difference between life and death," said Spc. Stephen Palac, a combat medic, about the importance of available drinking water. "There are all kinds of bad organisms in that canal water which leads to lots of stomach problems."

National Guard Soldiers of 2nd Platoon "Spartans," 1st Battalion, 150th Armored Reconnaissance Squadron, 30th Heavy Brigade Combat Team, visited one of five solar-powered water-purification

AFG Key Taliban leaders captured in Chapa Dara

Key Taliban leaders linked to IEDs captured in Chapa Dara

BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan (August 29, 2009) - Afghan National Security Forces and International Security Assistance Forces captured two key Taliban leaders, including one commander, during a joint operation in the Kanday village of Chapa Dara district, Kunar province August 29.

Qari Azimullah is a Taliban commander in the district, and has been directly linked to several improvised explosive device attacks in the Kunar province. One of these attacks resulted in the recent death of a U.S. service member.

Gitmo Bends Over Backwards for Ramadan

JTF Makes Preparations for Ramadan

Joint Task Force Guantanamo Public Affairs by Staff Sgt. Blair Heusdens 08.21.2009

Editor's Note: The cultural advisor's name has been omitted as an operational security measure as he works in the detention facilities.

GUANTANAMO BAY, Cuba – Preparations are under way at U.S. Naval Station Guantanamo Bay that will accommodate the upcoming religious holiday, Ramadan, for the community of Muslims who reside on base and for the detainees at Joint Task Force Guantanamo.

Aug. 22, 2009 marks the beginning of Ramadan. Ramadan is a month-long observance for Muslims around the world to focus on their faith and reflect. It is a period of fasting, reflection, devotion, generosity and sacrifice observed during the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, which is the month that Muslims believe the Qu'ran was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad.

Could Audie Murphy Have Won His Award?

13th ESC Soldiers Attempt to Join Audie Murphy Club

13th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary)

Story by Spc. Naveed Ali Shah

Date: 08.29.2009
Posted: 08.29.2009 06:47

JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq – "Audie Leon Murphy was a legend in his own time," begins the biography recited by the three candidates at the board for the Sergeant Audie Murphy Club Aug. 27 at Joint Base Balad, Iraq.

The non-commissioned officers of the 13th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) recited the biography in front of a panel of sergeants major from all over the Iraqi theater, from Camp Speicher to Camp Taji.

The club was established in 1986 at the 13th ESC's home in Fort Hood, Texas. Carrying on the tradition, Command Sgt. Maj. Mark D. Joseph, the senior enlisted adviser for the 13th ESC, said he held

Iraq Drawdown Has Many Challenges

Multi-National Corps - Iraq Details Drawdown Plan

139th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

Story by Spc. Brandy Oxford

Date: 08.29.2009
Posted: 08.29.2009 06:37

BAGHDAD – As Multi-National Corps – Iraq moves into the second phase of the drawdown of troops and equipment from Iraq, it faces challenges ranging from the withdrawal of roughly 80,000 service members to the repair and retrograde of countless connexes in country.

Although MNC-I has just finished phase one of the safe and responsible withdrawal of equipment and personnel in Iraq – setting the conditions – it has moved into the second phase of the drawdown without pause, said Lt. Col. Tammie Pettit, the Multi-National Corps – Iraq logistics plans chief at an MNC-I sustainment conference Aug. 15 at Al Faw Palace ball room on Camp Victory.

"It's been a lot of hard work for a lot of people," Pettit said. "We've done pretty well."

Brig. Gen. Heidi Brown is commanding the responsible drawdown of the roughly 130,000 troops in Iraq to

Taza, Iraq Returning to Normal 2 Months after Bomb Attack

Two Months Later: Iraqi City Still Recovering From Bomb Blast

2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division Public Affairs by Pfc. Justin Naylor 08.29.2009

FORWARD OPERATING BASE WARRIOR, KIRKUK, Iraq – Life is beginning to return to normal on the streets of Taza, Iraq, after a car bomb devastated the primarily Turkish city in Kirkuk province, in late June.

Lt. Col. Hugh McNeely, the deputy commander of 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, was welcomed by Taza city mayor, Talib, and street vendors alike Aug. 24, as he came to see how the city has continued its recovery.

According to Talib, the city has running water, electricity and functional sewers again. Many businesses have reopened their doors, and a large number of the people who were living in tents have moved out to stay with relatives.

Although things are going well, the mayor said residents of the city still need help.

"Strike Eagles" Log 8,000th Hour on Unique Mission

Strike Eagles Surpass 8,000 Combat Hours, Support Unique Missions

455th Air Expeditionary Wing by Capt. David Faggard 08.29.2009

BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan – Airmen from the 336th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron achieved a major combat milestone here when they surpassed 8,000 combat hours in the F-15E Strike Eagle while providing security to coalition forces.

The aircrew for the mission included Capt. Jaina Donberg, F-15E pilot and a native of Arlington, Va., as well as Capt. Nick Foster, an F-15E weapons system officer and a native of Martinsburg, W.Va. Launching the mission was F-15E crew chief, Senior Airman John Yates, a native of Pawtucket, R.I., and six-year-veteran of the F-15 C and E family.

The crews provided security for a helicopter re-supply point that night and even coordinated

Pic Of The Day: FirePower!

Sure, there's only so many hands and fingers, but there's only such a thing as having too few (i.e. none) firearms in a gunfight, not too many. And should a situation occur it's good to have the opportunity to use the right tool for the job, rather than adapt the tool to the job. 

Maintenance Miracles Keep MEU Rolling

Combat Logistics Battalion 22 Mechs Keep Marine Expeditionary Unit Rolling

Story by Cpl. Justin Martinez  22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit Public Affairs

08.28.2009  CAMP BUEHRING, Kuwait – On a warm, dusty evening, acoustic guitar rhythms accompanied by boastful country-accented vocals ripple through the air as several Marines in grease-covered coveralls get their hands dirty with a difficult task. The Marines momentarily mimic the country tune playing from small speakers as they turn wrenches through the night, taking out the heart of a 7-ton truck.

Marines with Maintenance Platoon, Combat Logistics Battalion 22, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, have spent countless hours maintaining the MEU's many vehicles during sustainment training aboard Camp Buehring, Kuwait. They've also performed maintenance miracles in support MEU units during several exercises on foreign shores. Pulling the engine on a 7-ton is just another day at the office for the knuckle-busting superheroes of the MEU.

According to the maintenance officer, the CLB Maintenance Marines are 47 professionals operating at the highest level in their Military Occupational Specialty, fixing and maintaining the MEU's equipment during its 7-month deployment.

"I have about 15 different military occupational specialties spread throughout the platoon," said Chief Warrant Officer Dawn M. Conklin, the Maintenance Officer for CLB-22 and a native of Missoula, Mont. "They can do everything all the way down to a complete rebuild of some items."

How To's on Adopting a Military Working Dog

Officials outline adoption process for military working dogs

by Tech. Sgt. Amaani Lyle Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs

8/28/2009 - WASHINGTON (AFNS) -- Military working dogs have come a long way since the days of ancient Persia and Assyria, where they donned armor, spiked collars and warned of impending attack or charged on the enemy's cavalry. 

Modern battlefield and customs conditions bring forth complex and ever-changing challenges, and as such, Department of Defense officials have created a clear standard operating procedure used by all kennels to ensure excess military working dogs have a chance to go to deserving adoptive homes. 

The DOD, in accordance with the November 2000 "Robby Law," enables military working dogs to be transferred or adopted out to former handlers, law enforcement agencies or families who are willing and able to take on the responsibility of former MWDs. Currently the DOD adopts out about 300 dogs per year to private homes; of that 300, about 100 dogs go to law enforcement agencies outside of the DOD. 

RIP SGT Earl D. Werner, PVT Taylor D. Marks

DoD Identifies Army Casualties

    The Department of Defense announced today the death of two soldiers who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.  They died Aug. 28 in Rashid, Iraq, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked their vehicle with an explosively formed penetrator.  Both Soldiers were assigned to the 41st Special Troops Battalion, 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team of the Oregon Army National Guard in Portland.

 

    Killed were:

 

    Sgt. Earl D. Werner, 38, of Mondovi, Wis.; and

 

 Pvt. Taylor D. Marks, 19, of Monmouth, Ore.

He which hath no stomach to this fight let him depart. But we in it shall be remembered. We few, we happy few, we band of brothers!! For he today, that sheds his blood with me, shall always be my brother”. Rest in peace my Brothers, you have not been forgotten. (W.Shakespeare)

Stream Crossing Training to Save Lives

In the Air, on Land and Streams; 3/7 Hones Water Crossing Skills

Story by Cpl. Robert Kyle  Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms

 

08.28.2009 MARINE CORPS MOUNTAIN WARFARE TRAINING CENTER BRIDGEPORT, Calif. – Marines and Sailors from Company K, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, returned to their amphibious roots during a stream crossing training exercise at Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center Bridgeport, Calif., Leavitt Training Area Aug. 20.

The exercise focused on moving fire teams across streams and rivers as safely as possible.

"These Marines are being afforded the opportunity to gain the confidence and ability to do something they've never done before as a unit," said Staff Sgt. Jeremy Miller, a mountain warfare training instructor with the Unit Training Group. "This training is not the end-all, be-all by any means. It gives them the basic knowledge they need for getting across the water safely."

Two More UN Civilians Kidnapped in The Sudan

Peacekeepers Kidnapped in Sudan
By VOA News 29 August 2009

Two civilians working with international peacekeepers in Sudan's troubled Darfur region are missing following a raid on their residences.

A spokesman for the United Nations-African Union peacekeeping force says the gunmen stormed into the town of Zalingei early Saturday morning and seized a man and a woman.

The spokesman, Noureddine Menzi, says this is the first kidnapping of staff members working for the peacekeeping force. He also says the mission has contacted the kidnappers, and that outgoing political chief, Rodolphe Adada, has appealed for the release of the captives.

Zalingei is the hometown of Abdel Wahid al-Nur, the leader of the Sudan Liberation Movement (SLM), one of Darfur's main rebel groups. Al-Nur, speaking from Paris, criticized the kidnapping and denied the SLM was involved, but said it showed the weakness of the peacekeeping mission.

The kidnapping is the fourth since March and comes just days after the outgoing commander of the peacekeeping force, Martin Luther Agwai, said the area no longer is in a state of war.

The mission's political chief, Adada, previously angered some Western diplomats by calling the situation in Darfur "a low-intensity conflict."  

Human rights groups describe the situation in Darfur as a genocide. The United Nations says up to 300,000 people have died over six years of fighting between rebel groups and government forces.

Sudan puts the death toll much lower, at 10,000.

The International Criminal Court has issued an arrest warrant for Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir, whom it accuses of masterminding a campaign of rape, murder and other crimes against Darfur civilians.

Mr. Bashir has rejected the court's authority and has repeatedly traveled abroad in defiance of the arrest warrant.

Meanwhile, at least 36 civilians are dead in southern Sudan, the result of a tribal cattle raid.

Officials say gunmen from the Lou Nuer tribe attacked the settlement of Wernyol in the Twic East region of Jonglei state on Friday in an attempt to steal cattle from Dinka tribesmen. More than 50 people were wounded.

Clashes between rival ethnic groups break out frequently in southern Sudan.

The U.N. says at least 1,000 people have been killed as the result of inter-tribal violence this year.

US Says Iran Still Not Addressing International Nuclear Concerns

By David Gollust   State Department

28 August 2009  The State Department said Friday the latest International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) report on Iran's nuclear program shows it is still not being responsive to concerns that it might be seeking nuclear weapons. Senior diplomats from major world powers meet next week in Germany to discuss nuclear diplomacy with Iran.

U.S. experts are still studying the lengthy IAEA document, but officials here say it is already clear from the report that Iran is still not being forthcoming with the U.N. agency on its nuclear intentions.

The highly-anticipated IAEA report said Iran is continuing to enrich uranium though at a somewhat slower rate than reported previously.

Iraq Stepping Up and Moving Out

13th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary)

08.28.2009  CAMP TAJI, Iraq – On May 25, the "Hook and Book" Soldiers of the 1161st Transportation Company, a Washington National Guard unit out of Ephrata, Wash., arrived in theatre as part of the 419th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 10th Sustainment Brigade team.

The 1161st, a Palletized Loading System vehicle company, received a new assignment upon their arrival to the 10th SBDE. The unit accepted the challenge to step away from their PLS vehicles and transition to using the M915 tractor trailers to haul loads within the battle space. The unit took this change and has done outstanding thus far. The unit has over eight destinations of which they travel, including Victory Base Camp, Joint Base Balad, Camp Adder, Camp Kalsu, Camp Cedar, and many others.

Aug. 26 airpower: Transports

Aug. 26 airpower summary: Transports are AOR workhorses

C-130 Hercules aircraft wait for an airlift mission at a Southwest Asia location. These C-130s transport coalition forces and equipment in support of operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Patrick Dixon)

8/27/2009 - SOUTHWEST ASIA (AFNS) -- Coalition airpower integrated with ground forces in Iraq and International Security Assistance Force troops in Afghanistan during operations Aug. 26, according to Combined Air and Space Operations Center officials here.

In Afghanistan, Air Force B-1B Lancer aircraft provided armed overwatch for friendly forces near Sheykhabad. They reported an impending enemy attack on friendly helicopters and requested a show of force. The show of force, which included release of flares, was successful in deterring the enemy action.

Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II and Navy F/A-18C Hornet aircraft provided armed overwatch for friendly forces near Oruzgan. The aircraft focused attention on tree line enemy positions when friendly forces reported them as points of origin for mortar, rocket-propelled grenade and small-arms fire .

Derek Sholl -"When They Come Back"

The Marine in this video is SSgt Jeremiah Workman, who's book "Shadow of the Sword" was reviewed on this site back in December. (available in right side bar through Amazon) I am privileged to call this hero my friend. I can inform the reader that SSgt Workman is doing very well in his life today. His son turned two over the summer, and he and his wife just completed construction on a beautiful home in VA. He will be honorably discharged from the USMC in a little under two months and is looking forward with anticipation tempered by a small fear of the unknown. I spoke to Workman after he went to a job interview one day. He told me it was the first interview he had ever been on. Remember, this man of 26 has been in the service since he was 17. However, he has a solid support network of family and friends that love and care about him. He recently celebrated his 26th birthday with these same friends and family at CrueFest 2 in VA. In short, he is doing well and his future looks very bright. Semper Fi. Navy Cross

Sniper's Eye Counters Smuggling in Iraq

Office of the Secretary of Defense Public Affairs

08.28.2009  SAHL SINJAR, Iraq, - Marine Corps snipers and designated marksmen have been operating across the vast Iraqi deserts since the outbreak of hostilities in 2003.

As with all units operating in Iraq, past and present, they have found themselves evolving to meet the changing needs of the Iraqi military and political landscape.

Small teams of snipers are finding reasons to venture into the constantly shifting environment that exists in a place referred to simply as "outside the wire."

Iraq Financial Management Supports the Team

13th Sustainment Command (Expeditionary)

 

08.28.2009 CAMP TAJI, Iraq – The "Blackhawks" of Bravo Detachment, 101st Financial Management Company out of Fort Campbell, Ky., work hard to spread their wealth beyond the walls of Camp Taji.

Since arriving here in January 2009, the Financial Management Support Teams of Bravo Detachment have traveled to outlying Joint Service Stations on missions to provide financial support to areas without access to a finance office.

Each FMST is comprised of a cashier and a certifier. The team's goal is to afford Service Members in austere environments an opportunity to receive

Iraq Promoting Professionalism Through Partnership

Story by Staff Sgt. Luke Koladish  Multi-National Corps Iraq Public Affairs

 

08.28.2009 Shaded by an awning from the scorching afternoon sun, the first class of seasoned Iraqi police officers graduated from a 40 hour course on basic forensics offered by the new Police Center of Excellence located on Camp Liberty, Iraq, Aug. 20.

The isolated building, which was once a hunting lodge of Saddam Hussein and most recently the initial reception area of alleged terrorist detainees, received renovations over the past few months. Service members of the 91st Military Police Battalion, 39th Military Police Company refurbished the structure to become the home of the Police Center of Excellence, where advanced crime scene and investigative techniques are taught to Iraqi police.

UAE Seizes Ship Allegedly Carrying North Korean Weapons

By VOA News  29 August 2009

Diplomatic officials say the United Arab Emirates seized a ship earlier this month allegedly carrying North Korean weapons to Iran.

The officials said Friday the shipment comes in violation of United Nations sanctions, and they said the U.A.E. has reported the seizure to the U.N. sanctions committee.

In June, the U.N. Security Council adopted sanctions that call for international inspections of North Korean sea and air shipments.

The council imposed the sanctions as a result of North Korea's nuclear weapons program in defiance of the global community.

The reports about the ship seizure do not suggest it was carrying nuclear weapons. Officials say the cargo included rocket-propelled grenades.

Diplomats identified the seized ship as the ANL Australia, registered in the Bahamas.

AFG Marines take Dehana back from Taliban forces

LANCE CPL. JOHN P. HITESMAN

HELMAND PROVINCE, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – For more than three years Taliban forces have controlled the city and the pass of Dehana in Afghanistan’s Helmand province.

They have taxed the local citizens and used their lands as a means to fund and commit terrorist acts within the surrounding cities of Now Zad, Bar Now Zad, and Changolock, among others.

That all began to change in the early morning hours of Aug. 12, 2009, when Marines and sailors of Company G, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, Marine Expeditionary Brigade-Afghanistan along with soldiers from the Afghan National Army, commenced operation ‘Eastern Resolve II’ to take back the city of Dehana and its surrounding areas for the Afghan population.

Italians Teach Afghans to Fly

Afghan C-27A 'Spartan' Program Takes Flight

Combined Security Transition Command - Afghanistan by Staff Sgt. Thomas Dow 08.29.2009

The first of 20 programmed Afghan C-27As took to the Italian skies, July 27, during the initial test flights. Test pilots, engineers and ground crew from Alenia North America were pleased with the aircraft's performance. The medium-sized tactical military transport remains on schedule for delivery to Naples in late September. Combined Security Transition Command – Afghanistan is currently refurbishing these C-27A "Spartans" which will be added to the Afghan National Army Air Corp's fleet on schedule in November.

The C-27A is a rugged, twin-engine turboprop aircraft with short take-off and landing capability. It can carry up to 23,600 pounds of cargo and fuel, as well as operate on unimproved airfields as short as