TROOP SCOOP

Dear Interested Reader,
It's nice to read about our coalition mates, the Brits, helping in Basra.  Note the young Iraqi soldier playing soccer barefoot.  Gen. Petraeus visits our troops and bestows special coins on a few of our outstanding troops.  "Team Metallico" helps to restore Rusafa.  Huge weapons and munition caches seized, and many criminals captured.
Joanna
________________________________

 

Multi-National Corps - Iraq
Public Affairs Office, Camp Victory
APO AE 09342

June 30, 2008

British, Iraqi Army Soldiers build camaraderie through soccer

BASRA - Members of the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards and members of the 4 Bn, Royal Regiment of Scotland teamed up to take on Iraqi soldiers in a friendly soccer game in Basra, June 26.
The soldiers spend most of their days sweating it out in vehicles or on checkpoints in various parts of Basra, but the game gave them a chance to sweat it out in a less stressful environment and have some fun together. The event drew a large crowd of spectators made up of officers and enlisted soldiers from both forces.
The Iraqis won the match 3 to 0 on the field and were awarded a trophy for their efforts.  Afterwards, the players from both teams were treated to a barbecue where British and Iraqi officers served the players.
The event gave British and Iraqi Soldiers a chance to get away from daily patrols and checkpoint ops as well as build a closer relationship through sports.

A British Soldier makes a quick break down the wing as an IA soldier attempts to prevent any pass into the middle.  The 2 forces work together every day maintaining security in the streets of Basra. 

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MNF-I CG visits, recognizes outstanding warfighters in MND-N

TIKRIT - Gen. David Petraeus, the comm. gen. of MNF-Iraq, visited Mosul, June 28.  During his visit, Petraeus personally recognized the tremendous work done by 18 servicemembers stationed at FOB Marez and Diamondback.  He presented each with one of his commander's coins.
"Today, the honor is to give you my coin, with my thanks, which reads; 'not just for excellence, but for excellence in combat,' because that is what you have all demonstrated," the general said.
"It was a neat experience," said Spc. David Nielsen, with 552nd MP Co., 728th MP Bn. "It shows that he cares what we're doing as Soldiers."
"This is a first-time experience for me, but it is good to see all the younger guys get recognized for their great work out here," said Sgt. 1st Class Kirk Chambers, with 7th Bde, 2nd Div IA MiTT.

Gen. David Petraeus prepares to award his coin to Spc. David Nielsen. Nielsen was recognized for his motivation to volunteer and his dedication in improving the IP stations.
(U.S. Army photo by Spc. Karla P. Rodriguez Maciel)

Gen. Patraeus, speaks to a formation of 18 service  members about to receive his coin. 

Gen. Patraeus presents Sgt. 1st Class Kirk Chambers his coin for excellence in combat.

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NPs, SoI, MND-B Soldiers seize weapons, munitions in Baghdad

BAGHDAD - June 28, Soldiers with the 1st Sqdrn, 2nd Stryker Cav Regt, seized 13 hand grenades, M-4
mags, 5.56 mm tracer rounds and armor-piercing ammo in Adhamiyah at approx. 1 p.m. after a tip by a SoI
member.
Five hours later, Soldiers from the 4th BCT, 10th Mtn Div, along with Iraqi NP, seized a variety of materials used by crimminals in multiple locations in the New Baghdad district of Baghdad.
At approx. 9:30 p.m., SoI members in West Rashid turned over a munitions cache to Soldiers from the 1st BCT, 4th ID. The cache was wrapped in plastic and contained 107 mm rockets, 7 RPG propellant sticks, and 82mm mortars.

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ISF arrest seven suspected IED bombers

BALAD - Iraqi SF arrested 4 suspected Special Groups criminals and 3 other suspected criminals around central Iraq, June 24-26.  The criminals are believed to be Iranian surrogates responsible for IED, EFP and indirect fire attacks.
One of the criminals is said to be an expert IED builder responsible for killing Sunnis. The other suspect is an Iranian-trained sniper and weapons facilitator for the Special Groups. 
Three suspected AQI criminals were detained on warrants issued by the Ministry of Interior.  According to
the warrants, the suspects are allegedly responsible for killing Sunnis, IED attacks against Iraqi Security and CF, and local intimidation. The individuals are believed to be some of the last remaining AQI elements in this part of Baghdad.
The Hillah SWAT team arrested a suspected Special Groups criminal in an area approx. 95 km southeast of Baghdad, June 26. The suspect is allegedly responsible for overseeing IED emplacement and attacks against CF in southern Babil.  It has been reported that the criminal is also responsible for all Special Groups criminals' weapons coming into Babil province.

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Iraqi forces detain AQI member, prevent attacks

BALAD - Baqubah Emergency Response Force detained a suspected AQI member in Udaim, approximately 112 km north of Baghdad, during an op in which 2 structures rigged with explosives were destroyed, June 28.
ERF conducted the op to disrupt AQI's movement and decrease their intimidation attacks on the local Iraqis in the Udaim River Valley area.  They detained the suspected terrorist, because he is believed to be part of a mortar and rocket cell that targets Iraqi Security and CF, and local citizens.
During the op, ground intel indicated that 2 buildings were rigged with IEDs and posed a threat to ground forces. ERF cleared the buildings of all occupants before air support fire was requested and destroyed the 2 structures.
Iraqi SF are providing security to the area in efforts to deny AQI from maintaining a sanctuary in the Udaim River valley region.

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National Police seize nearly 200 weapons

BAGHDAD - Iraqi NP seized nearly 200 weapons during search ops in the New Baghdad security district of eastern Baghdad, June 29, including 172 AK-47 rifles, 4 AK-22 rifles, 3 SKS rifles, 3 bolt-action rifles, 2 air-gun rifles, an MP-5 sub-machinegun, an RPK machinegun and 8 pistols.
"The NP are more vigilant than ever in enforcing a weapons free zone to protect the citizens of Baghdad," said Maj. Joey Sullinger, a spokesperson for 4th BCT, 10th Mtn Div (Lt), MND - Baghdad.  "Successful missions such as this bolster the people's confidence in the SF that provide them safety and security, and it sends a message to militants that their days of uninhibited intimidation are over."

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‘Team Metallica’ Helps Rebuild Rusafa       

By Capt. Jabbar Colbert

Spc. Lucas Peterson talks to a group of Iraqi boys during a routine patrol in the Rusafa security district of eastern Baghdad.

FOB LOYALTY — Although they are not who most people would call average war fighters, their mission is just as vital for survival. They conduct patrols, but their primary mission is not combat related. “Team Metallica” is charged with assisting local governance to provide for the welfare of Iraqi citizens throughout the Rusafa security district of eastern Baghdad. The team consists of 3rd Sqdrn, 89th Cav Regt, 4th BCT, 10th Mtn Div Soldiers specifically selected to handle reconstruction efforts.  A civil affairs team, a tactical ops team and a security element encompasses Team Metallica that allows them to operate independently.
“We mentor, coach and teach the civic leaders on ways to make their neighborhoods a better and safer place to live,” said Maj. John Schulz, civil affairs team leader. “Once we set the conditions, we let the Iraqis work amongst themselves to solve their own issues.”
Under the direction of Capt. Timothy Green, serving as sqdrn effects officer,, Team Metallica plays a vital role in rebuilding Rusafa.  According to Green, the team has aided rebuilding efforts in Rusafa, including projects to pave streets, issue business micro-grants and fund SoI) programs. Team Metallica recently helped to coordinate the first Al Fadhl Neighborhood Advisory Council meeting.  A direct result of this meeting was a street-curb improvement project conducted a week later, according to Green.
One future project on which Team Metallica is working includes a micro-power generating project for some of Rusafa’s poorest areas.  “We were able to start a micro-power generating project in one of the most ignored neighborhoods in Rusafa,” said Schulz. “Thousands of residents from Muhallas 125, 127 and 129 will not have to live in the dark (any longer).” The first of three ribbon cutting ceremonies will occur the second week of July, said Schulz.
Although Team Metallica handles traditional tasks such as giving soccer balls to children, they specialize in long-term projects that assist the Iraqi govt in addressing issues for themselves.  “This will allow the US (Soldiers) to return home sooner, knowing that the job of country rebuilding is being done by Iraqis,” said Shulz.

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Dear Interested Reader,
Reconciliation comes to Tikrit.  Our  Army Engineering Cos. are successfully training Iraqis in using engineering equipment. US Special Forces conduct training in Samarra.  Large weapons and munition caches seized throughout Baghdad.
Joanna
_________________________________

Multi-National Corps - Iraq
Public Affairs Office, Camp Victory
APO AE 09342

June 29, 2008

Leadership discusses reconciliation in Tikrit

TIKRIT - A meeting to discuss reconciliation in the city of Tikrit took place June 26 between CF Soldiers and local Iraqi leadership.
The Gov. of Salah ad Din Province, Hamad Shekti, and Col. Michael S. McBride, cmdr. of the 1st BCT, 101st Abn Div (AASLT), met with local and military leadership to discuss the way forward for those wishing to reintegrate into Iraqi society. 
The long time governor said the reconciliation is a window of opportunity that men who find themselves wanted by ISF and CF should not pass up.
The governor describes the window as a period of pardon, which is meant to give those who have felt marginalized, a chance to rejoin the budding political processes.
Those seeking to wipe the slate clean will be treated fairly and justly by Iraqi SF, said Shekti.  However, those who have committed crimes will continue to be pursued, he said.
"Coalition forces will not actively target men on the wanted lists during these 10 days unless we have credible intel that these men are still conducting hostile actions against CF, Iraqi SF or Iraqi citizens," said McBride.
During the press conference, McBride said he expects hundreds of Iraqis from in and around Tikrit to use this as an opportunity to clear their names. 
The meeting comes on the heels of a massive reconciliation effort in the city of Balad, where more than 500 Iraqis pledged loyalty to the Iraqi govt by signing a cease fire agreement as a component to the formal reconciliation process.  Since the effort began in May, dozens of weapons caches and munitions have been turned into Iraqi SF as a result of info gained from reconciliation.

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U.S. Army engineers teach IA soldiers vital skills

TIKRIT, Iraq - The 58th Combat Engs. Co. and the 232nd Eng. Co. worked with IA soldiers to train them on several types of engineering equipment at COB Speicher in Tikrit, June 26.
"We train the IA soldiers to allow them to be more capable to do projects by themselves," said Capt. Abigail Cathelineaud, the co. cmdr. of 232nd Eng. Co. "It is a goal that we've already met in some cases, but widening those capabilities is something we would like to accomplish."
Cathelineaud spoke about the importance of training the soldiers on different types of equipment to evolve them for the future of the Iraqi people in the Tikrit area.  "Each piece of equipment has different abilities that the IA soldiers can use to build roads, check points and to enable them to do their own force protection."
By training the Iraqi Army soldiers to operate the huskies, they will be able to, at first assist the U.S. with route clearance missions so they can provide stability within their own individual sectors, said Staff Sgt. Mike Garza, a 58th CEC squad leader.
"I've seen a great improvement on their operating skills and their knowledge on the equipment," said Sgt. 1st Class David Sullivan, 232nd Eng. Co. plt. sgt.
"It is wonderful that we're seeing the Iraqi people interested in learning how they can improve their own country," said Amanda Michael, a 232nd Bn squad leader. "They are very eager to learn, hardworking and they're motivation is outstanding."

Spc. Jon Staib, a route clearance driver and gunner with the 18th Eng. Bde trains an IA soldier to lower and raise the arm on a husky engineer vehicle so he can detonate possible IEDs during route clearance missions.
(U.S. Army photo by Spc. Opal Vaughn)

Sgt. Amanda Michael, an eng. squad leader for the 232nd, looks on as IA soldiers use the skills taught to them by the U.S. Soldiers to drive a dozer.

Sgt. 1st Class David Sullivan, took a moment to give IA soldiers a review of their work on a dozer after each soldier took what they learned and put it into action.

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National Police find weapons cache in Rashid

BAGHDAD -  June 28 in the Rashid district of southern Baghdad, at approx. 2 a.m., the police found 6 rockets, 10 boxes of plastic explosives, 3 IEDs, 40 AK-47 assault rifles, approx. 5,000 rounds of 7.62 mm ammo, a 120 mm mortar round, 2 RPGs, a PKC machinegun and a sniper rifle.
"Many of the successful missions within the Rashid district can be attributed to the hard work of our Iraqi SF partners and the Iraqi Security Volunteers," said Maj. Dave Olson, the spokesman for the 1st BCT, 4th ID.

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IA, MND-B Soldiers seize weapons, munitions throughout Baghdad

BAGHDAD - IA and MND - Baghdad Soldiers working to secure Baghdad seized weapons and munitions throughout the area, June 27.
Soldiers from the 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th Inf Div, seized 9 120 mm mortar rounds, 7 80 mm mortar rounds and 3 60 mm mortar rounds west of Baghdad.
Soldiers from the 4th BCT, 10th Mtn Div, found 3 AK-47s, a bolt-action rifle and an aviation helicopter breach kit.
Soldiers from the 2nd BCT, 101st Abn Div (AASLT), found 5 pounds of homemade explosive material in the Mansour area of Baghdad.
Soldiers with the 1st BCT, 4th ID, found 2 hand grenades, a smoke grenade, 2 RPG boosters, an AK-47 assault rifle, 3 AK-47 mags, and an unknown amount of 12.7 mm and 7.62 mm ammo.

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U.S. Special Forces operators visit village in Samarra

U.S. Army SF conduct training with IP in Samarra, June 24.
(U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Miguel Angel Contreras)

U.S. Army SF visit with local children after conducting an op and assessing a civil affairs project.

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Dear Interested Reader,
We honor the Michigan National Guard helping safeguard reconstruction efforts in Ramadi, while medics from the 3-7th Inf. Bn. participated in a combined medical engagement in Farisiyah.   Many suspected criminals detained, and large weapons and munitions seized.
Joanna
_____________________________________

Multi-National Corps - Iraq
Public Affairs Office, Camp Victory
APO AE 09342

June 28, 2008

Michigan Guard Members help Safeguard Reconstruction Efforts

Official photo by Senior Chief Petty Officer Gary Boucher.   

2nd Lt. Stephan Shuster, watches activities near the Ramadi Ministry of Health during a Personnel Security Detail mission.

CAMP RAMADI — Hot wind swirled orange dust around idling Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles as 2nd Lt. Stephan Shuster, plt leader, described the day’s mission to the combat-equipped force. The troops mounted their vehicles and headed for the heart of the provincial capital city of Ramadi.  What might have been a hair-raising combat mission just a year ago is today a trip to securely deliver civil-military ops personnel to the Ministry of Health for a meeting with Iraqi officials. And the combat gear? Well, that is a precaution, not a preparation for battle.
Shuster and other Soldiers from B Co, 1st Bn, 125th Inf Regt of the Michigan National Guard, otherwise known as Task Force Viking, make several of these type trips all around Ramadi each week.  These Personnel Security Detail (PSD) missions help ensure that reconstruction work continues unabated by safeguarding the servicemembers and civilians working to support the ever-strengthening municipal govt.
According to 1st Lt. Ryan Senn, co. cmdr. in charge of coordinating all the PSD movements, the main role of the PSD ops is to provide security and transportation to the civil-military ops and PRTs at Camp Ramadi. This includes making sure buildings like the Ministry of Health are secure, both inside and out.
The unit has conducted more than 170 PSD missions since arriving and assuming their security responsibilities in late April. “We average 2 destinations per mission. The highest number of destinations we’ve had on one mission has been 8,” said Senn. The missions run 6 days a week with 1 day set aside for equipment maintenance and recuperation, he added.
Although Al Anbar Province and the city of Ramadi have seen a tremendous reduction in violence over the past year, and the ensuing relative peace has been touted as evidence of the defeat of terrorism in the region, the Soldiers stay vigilant. Senn said the reduced threat from AQI has not changed the way the unit operates.  “It doesn’t matter if there is a 60% threat or a 1% threat, you still have to have a similar posture and mindset in order to respond properly if or when that threat presents itself,” he said.
The transformation of Iraqi cities like Ramadi has been amazing, though somewhat difficult to fully comprehend for Staff Sgt. Jason Mesner, a veteran of the push through Iraq in 2003 and current member of the Task Force. Then assigned to a unit that initially cleared the Baghdad airport, Mesner’s experience was one of near non-stop combat.  He said he has had to alter his mindset from being focused solely on combat and adapt to his current, less-visible role as a military member supporting the progression toward peace and a self-reliant provincial and municipal Iraqi govt.
Not all of the Soldiers in the unit have the experience of previous deployments to Iraq. “This is my first deployment,” said Spc. Brian Qualls, a B Co. medic from Detroit.  “I drill in Flint and I’m usually working in a battalion aid station or training with an ambulance.”  Qualls is enjoying getting to travel around in the convoys and socialize with the Iraqis and says that little things make his job rewarding.  “I like meeting people and knowing we’re doing something to help.  Even giving kids a band-aid for a scratch makes them feel good, and that’s cool,” he said.  “It’s been really quiet. We haven’t had any (IEDs), and I give (EOD) credit for keeping us safe from them.”
This day’s PSD mission finished as quietly as the hundreds before it, and the meeting between Iraqi officials and civil-military ops personnel concluded another step toward the reconstruction of Ramadi and the self-reliant govt.

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Iraqi Army, Coalition Troops Provide Medical Care at School       

By 1st Lt. Travis Hayes
4th Brigade Combat Team Public Affairs

Soldiers from 3-7th Inf Regt usher in residents, June 21, 2008.
U.S. Army photo by Pfc. Rhonda Roth.

FOB ISKAN — More than 200 adults and 80 children received medical care recently during a combined medical engagement at the Al Herea School in Farisiyah.
Eight Iraqi medics and surgeons and medics from the 3rd ID’s 3rd Bn, 7th Inf Regt, 4th BCT, hosted the event for residents of Farisiyah and Jurf as Sahkr.
“It always puts a smile on my face to see people in need receive proper care,” said Army Staff Sgt. Luke Henry, a medic with HHC, 3-7th Inf Regt.  “I believe these combined medical engagements are what we need to keep doing, because it’s these children that we treat who will remember us when they’re older and in a position to make decisions.”
In addition to the medical care, the Iraqi medics provided preventive medical classes on the importance of washing hands, boiling water and personal hygiene.
Members of the civil affairs team from FOB Iskan also handed out Beanie Babies to children and distributed more than 500 humanitarian aid packages to families.

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MND-B Soldiers detain known Special Groups criminal in Rashid

BAGHDAD - June 26 in the Rashid district of southern Baghdad, Soldiers from the 64th Armor Regt, attached to the 1st BCT, 4th ID, detained the criminal, a known weapons trafficker, at a checkpoint in the Ghartan community.

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IA, MND-B Soldiers seize munitions north, west of Baghdad

BAGHDAD - IA and MND - Baghdad Soldiers, aided by tips from Iraqi civilians, seized 6 munitions caches north and west of Baghdad, June 26.
Soldiers with the 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID, seized a munitions cache near the town of Tarmiyah, north of Baghdad, at approx. 6:30 a.m., June 26.  The cache consisted of a 120 mm mortar round, a 100 mm Illumination mortar round, 4 57 mm high-explosive projectiles, 6 107 mm HE rocket warheads, a surface-to-air missile, a 155 mm HE projectile; 11, 82 mm HE mortar rounds; 24, 57 mm rocket motors, an IED, 300 electric blasting caps, empty artillery casings, various small-arms ammo, explosives, propellants and other various IED-making materials.
Soldiers with the 27th Inf. Regt. seized a nitric acid chemical cache west of Camp Taji at approx. 10:20 a.m. consisting of 9 five-gallon jugs of nitric acid. 
Iraqi Soldiers along with Soldiers from the 14th Inf. Regt., seized a weapons cache in Tarmiyah Qada at approx. 12:10 p.m., consisting of 9 boxes of heavy machine gun rounds. In Abayachi, north of Baghdad,  IA seized 2 120 mm mortar rounds, a 122 mm artillery round, 100 heavy machine gun rounds, a heavy machine gun base plate, an unknown machine gun and a 107 mm rocket motor.
Based on an Iraqi citizen's tip, Soldiers from the 2nd SBCT, 25th ID, seized a munitions cache north of Abu Ghuraib at approx. 5:45 p.m.  The cache consisted of an unknown HME, 24, 82 mm mortar rounds, a blasting cap, bomb-making material, a grenade and fuse. 

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Iraqi Army finds weapons cache near Al Latif

BASRA - IA and British soldiers seized a weapons cache northwest of the Al Latif district of Basra, Iraq June 25, consisting of 25 107 mm rockets, homemade rocket launchers, 40 mortar shells, 2 heavy machine guns and a large quantity of ammo. 
"The 107 mm rockets were in some form of transit hide, potentially about to be used against a significant target, either an Iraqi SF or CF Base," said Lieutenant Colonel Simon Browne, a spokesperson for MND - Southeast.

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Mahawil Emergency Response Unit detain 5 during air assault

BAGHDAD - Members of the Mahawil Emergency Response Unit detained 5 suspected criminals near Mahawil, June 23, during air and ground assaults.
Approx. 35 members of the ERU and 100 Soldiers from the 502nd Infantry Regiment assaulted 4 different objectives to disrupt a suspected weapons trafficking cell in the Mahawil area.  The individuals detained are accused of trafficking weapons, participating in AQI activities, conducting rocket attacks and murdering a Mahawil policeman.  Although the cell was located in Mahawil, their suspected reach was much further, including supplying weapons to criminals as far north as Baghdad.
Members of the ERU led the op, called "Op Yorktown," and CF secured the outer cordon.

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MND-B Soldiers detain 3 suspected criminals in overnight operations

BAGHDAD - At approx. 9:45 p.m., June 25, Soldiers from the 1st BC, 4th ID, detained a suspected Special Groups criminal cell leader in the Shurta neighborhood. 
At approx. 1:15 a.m., June 26, 4th ID Soldiers  detained a suspected Sunni criminal in the same area.  Less than 2 hours later, 4th ID Soldiers detained a suspected criminal in the Shurta neighborhood, responsible for attacks on Iraqi Security and CF in the Rashid district.

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MND-B Soldiers seize cache in Ameriyah following tip

BAGHDAD - June 26, acting on a tip from an Iraqi civilian, Soldiers from the 10th Cav Regt, attached to 2nd BCT, 101st Abn Div, seized 122 mortar rounds, 17 RPGs, 8 rockets, 3 sniper rifles, a machinegun, 3 TNT sticks, 5 mortar tubes, 100 blasting caps, 5 tank rounds and miscellaneous detonation cord, fuses and homemade explosives.

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MND-B Soldiers detain 7 suspected criminals, discover 2 munitions caches

BAGHDAD - MND - Baghdad Soldiers detained 7 suspected criminals and discovered 2 weapons caches June 26 and 27 in the Rashid district of southern Baghdad.
Soldiers from the 1st BCT, 4th ID, detained a suspected criminal at approx. 11:45 a.m., June 26, in the Hadar community. The suspect is allegedly responsible for emplacing a roadside bomb earlier this year.
Approx. 2 hours later, Soldiers from the 22nd Inf Regt, attached to the 1st BCT, 4th ID, detained 3 criminals in conjunction with a roadside bomb attack in the Zubaida community.
Soldiers from the 64th Armor Regt, attached to the 1st BCT, 4th ID., discovered a munitions cache and detained 3 suspected criminals during the search of a residence at approx. 12:15 a.m., June 27, in the Saydiyah neighborhood consisting of 3 RPGs altered to be remote detonated.

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Dear Interested Reader,
Progress continues by way of the opening of the largest public works substation in Baghdad, and an electrical power station getting ready to open in Basra.  Read about further success for Iraqi and UK joint security op in Basra.  The leader of an IED cell is captured near FOB Falcon Baghdad.  Huge weapons and munition caches continue to be seized with help from Iraqi civilians.
Joanna  
______________________________________

Multi-National Corps - Iraq
Public Affairs Office, Camp Victory
APO AE 09342

June 27, 2008

Largest public works substation in Baghdad opens

BAGHDAD - Iraqi SF, civic leaders, local townsmen and CF gathered for a ribbon cutting ceremony in the Ameriyah community in the Mansour district of Baghdad to acknowledge the opening of the biggest public works substation in Baghdad, June 25.
Public works substations provide essential services to local communities such as trash pickup, street cleaning and other services necessary for proper community maintenance.
The opening of the Ameriyah substation marks an important milestone for residents of this area who have not had these services in more than two years.
"These basic services used to be centralized into only one station located in the Eastern Mansour district of Baghdad, creating a deficit in other parts of the city," said Col. Louis Fazeka, part of the ePRT, 2nd BCT, 101st Abn Div, MND - Baghdad.  "The focus of this mission has been to 'decentralize' and make substations throughout western Baghdad, making these services more readily available to those neglected parts of the city.  These people want these basic essential services that you and I take for granted back home.  It boosts the peoples' confidence in the govt," said Fazeka.
"This station has brought life back to 15,000 residents due to the reinstatement of these services," said Salwan  Latif, Iraqi public works assistant zone director, and 30-year resident of Ameriyah.  "Seven months ago, we were hiding in our houses in fear for our lives.  But thanks be to God...all aspects of fear that we had is in the past, and our lives are open now, and so are our opportunities."

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IA finds weapons cache in Diyala Province

TIKRIT - IA Soldiers found a weapons cache in the Diyala Province, June 26, containing more than 1,000 pounds of homemade explosives, 3 IEDs, 10 anti-tank mines, 4 rockets and various IED-making items..

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ISF continue to clear Amarah of munitions

BAGHDAD - Iraqi SF discovered numerous munitions during Op Basha'er as Salaam in Amarah.  The caches, found in homes, businesses and public areas throughout the city from June 19-22 totaled more than 1,700 mortar rounds, 873 mines, 445 artillery rounds, 347 RPGs, 267 rockets, 227 missile launchers, 109 IEDs, 74 grenades; 35, 122 mm rounds; 27 EFPs and 14 missiles.
The ISF led the combined effort, both in planning and execution, located a total of 117 weapons caches
and detained more than 63 criminals since the op began.  A 4-day amnesty period was allowed prior to the op for citizens to turn in munitions not counted in the above list.  The citizens' cooperation with the ISF was integral in the success of the mission.
"The op has been a great success," said Col. Charles A. Flynn, cmdr. of 1st BCT, 82nd Abn Div. "The IP and IA are out in force.  They are doing the hard and dangerous work to detain criminals and remove Special Groups from this area.  At the same time, they're providing humanitarian assistance to the citizens of Amarah and creating a safer environment to call home."

ISF line the collection area with a weapons cache discovered in Amarah.

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MND-B Soldiers detain key criminal leader

BAGHDAD -  Soldiers from the 4th Inf Regt, attached to the 1st BCT, 4th ID, detained the leader of an IED criminal cell, June 24 in the Rashid district of southern Baghdad, near FOB Falcon, Baghdad.
"The detainment of this key criminal will keep the residents of Rashid much safer," said Maj. Dave Olson, 1st BCT Spokesman, 4th ID, MND-B.  "The 2nd Bn., 4th Inf. Regt. Soldiers have worked hard to transform the Doura area into a safe and secure environment in a relatively short amount of time."

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IA Soldiers seize weapons in Sadr City

BAGHDAD - IA Soldiers seized numerous weapons caches in the Sadr City district of Baghdad, June 25.
Since May 20, the IA has uncovered 205 weapons and munitions caches, including more than 150 IEDs and 100 EFPs.
"This is a significant achievement for the Baghdad Ops Command and the IA," said Lt. Col. Steve Stover, a spokesman for MND - Baghdad.  "It shows increased capability, competence and the trust the Sadr City residents have in the IA Soldiers.  "A significant number of the caches have been based on tips or citizens pointing the cache locations out," said Stover.

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Electrical sub-station powers up in Basra

BASRA - A new electrical substation that will provide additional power to the citizens of Basra  is scheduled to go online next month.  Iraqi electrical workers are installing new lines, inspecting transformers and making final checks throughout the substation in preparation to bring it online in early July.
The GoI is making efforts to bring basic services to Iraqis living in Basra as quickly as possible. "This sub-station will bring several more hours of normal, regulated electricity to this part of the city, " said Lt. Col. Pau Hettich of the Civil Military Ops Center. "Iraqi engineers are doing a week of final testing to make sure everything is ready to go when they flip the switch."

Iraqi electrical engineers perform final checks by adding a load to the system at a sub-station.  (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Tim Ortez)

An Iraqi Soldier escorts patrols around transformers.

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Further Success for Iraqi, UK Joint Security Operation in Basra  

      British and Iraqi officers confirm target locations during an op in Basra.  Photo by Corp. Rob Knight, RLC.

BASRA — Op Charge of the Knights, a joint op involving UK Soldiers and the IA, which aims to restore order and improve security in Basra, is making further progress.
The IA continues to demonstrate its commitment to improving the security situation in the city, carrying out a number of vehicle check points in recent days.  In addition, numerous house searches were carried out, leading to multiple arrests of suspected militants. 140 rounds of 150mm High Explosive shells were also found in one area of Basra.
Op Charge of the Knights, which began in March, is now into its 14th phase. The op has been one of the key drivers in bringing peace and stability to the streets of Basra in recent months. Elements of the IA and IP, with their US and UK MiTTs, can now be seen working in the city.
The MiTTs are working closely with the Iraqi SF and local contractors as pavements are replaced, sewers cleared and rubbish removed from the streets.
"Once again this op was fully planned and executed by the IA," said Maj. Tom Holloway, spokesman for the MND - South East. "These ops demonstrate their capability, professionalism and commitment to the residents of Al Basrah Province.  It is enormously encouraging to see the progress made by the IA in maintaining the security of the city and its residents.  "Iraqi confidence and capabilities are improving by the day with our help," he continued.  "The overall feeling here is upbeat and cautiously optimistic.  We will continue to push for security of Basra by helping the IA."

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Dear Interested Readers,
Iraqi Soldiers gets refresher course in shooting techniques.  UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters fly round the clock to aid in missions.  Many Special Groups criminals captured or killed, and large weapons and munition caches seized.
Joanna
____________________________________________

Multi-National Corps - Iraq
Public Affairs Office, Camp Victory
APO AE 09342

June 26, 2008

Citizen tip leads MND-B forces to seize vehicle with 9 IRAMs

BAGHDAD - MND - Baghdad Soldiers discovered a vehicle with 9 improvised rocket assisted mortars in the bed of a vehicle in the Kadamiyah district of Baghdad, at June 24. The Soldiers discovered the IRAMs based on a tip from a local Iraqi.

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MND-B Soldiers wound four criminals, detain 2, NPs find weapons

FOB FALCON - In Baghdad's Rashid District, Soldiers from 1st BCT, 4th ID, engaged 4 criminals after receiving fire from a drive-by shooting in the Aamel neighborhood at approx. 9:30 p.m., June 22. The patrol returned fire at the vehicle.
About 10:30 p.m., Iraqi NP partnered with MND-B Soldiers found the same vehicle in another neighborhood.  They took the suspects into custody and evacuated the 4 wounded criminals to a local hospital.
Responding to a tip, Iraqi NP partnered with MND-B Soldiers, found a large cache in an abandoned house in the Risalah area, consisting of 500 kilograms of TNT, 19 bags of C-4 plastic explosives, more than 80 RPG rounds with 6 RPG launchers, 9 60 mm mortar rounds, 82 mm mortar rounds, more than a dozen 120 mm mortar rounds, Katusha rockets, AK-47 assault rifles, SKS assault rifles, 2 sniper rifles, a couple machine guns, roadside bombs, a hand grenade and more than 40 explosive charges.
Soldiers from 1st BCT, 4th ID, detained a suspected criminal in his home in the Hadar community.
Responding to a tip, MND-B Soldiers conducted an op and detained a suspected criminal at approx. 7 p.m., June 23 in the Jihad market area.
"The Iraqi SF in our area have made significant improvements since my last tour in 2006," said Col. Ted Martin, the 1st BCT cmdr. "The ISF in our area is well-led and ready to assume the lead in parts of our (sector) to provide a safe and secure environment for the Iraqi people."

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INPs, MND-B Soldiers seize 2 caches in New Baghdad

BAGHDAD - June 25, Iraqi NP along with MND-B Soldiers assigned to their transition teams, and Soldiers from the 4th BCT, 10th Mtn Div confiscated weapons during search ops in Muhalla 762 of the Oubaidy area.
The caches contained 21, 81 mm mortar rounds; 12, 120 mm mortar rounds; 11, 60 mm mortar rounds, 11 anti-tank mines, 11 EFPs, 3 120 mm mortars, 2 mortar base plates, 2 152 mm artillery rounds, an 82 mm mortar tube, a complete 81 mm mortar system, 45 fuses, 4 RPGs, 2 propellants, 3 PKC machineguns, 3 AK-47 rifles, an M-4 rifle, an instruction booklet for mortar emplacement, and various other equipment to facilitate attacks.

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MND-B Soldiers kill 3 criminals following attack on convoy

BAGHDAD -  At approx. 8:40 a.m., June 25, Soldiers from the 4th BCT, 10th Mtn Div (Lt), were part of a convoy that was stopped on the roadside.  The criminals, who were traveling in a northerly direction near Baghdad Int'l Airport fired at the Soldiers. They returned fire, which resulted in the vehicle running off the road and striking a wall, exploding, killing all 3.

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ISF capture five suspected Special Groups criminals in separate operations

BALAD - Iraqi SF captured 5 suspected Special Groups criminals during separate ops in central Iraq, June 21-23.  One criminal is suspected to have collaborated with a wide variety of criminal groups, and is sought after in Wasit province for the reported torture and murder of local govt employees, ISF and their families.  Another is the suspected leader of a Special Groups criminal network who is suspected of being a financier who directs, coordinates and funds ops in the surrounding cities, including trafficking weapons and providing safe havens for criminals.  Reports directly link him to sectarian killings, kidnappings for ransom and coercing the local population into supporting Special Groups criminals.  He is also suspected of being associated with IED and EFP attacks on CF. 
Three of the detained are suspected Special Groups criminals.  One individual is believed to be an Iranian surrogate, reportedly in charge of more than 100 individuals who have conducted IED and indirect fire attacks against Iraqi and CF.  Another detainee is suspected of IED, EFP and IDF attacks,  and the last captured individual is suspected of being a key financier for Special Groups criminals.

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Iraqi Special Operations Forces capture suspected Special Groups criminal

BALAD - Iraqi SOF captured a suspected Special Groups criminal and detained 2 others in the Shulah area of Baghdad, June 20.
The ISOF conducted an op to capture the suspected criminal and associates allegedly responsible for IED and EFP. The suspected SG criminal is accused of supporting criminal groups with weapons and imported IEDs. Two other suspected criminals were detained during the operation.
"Until recently, Shulah was considered a high-threat area and a stronghold for Special Groups criminals," said Lt. Col. Neil Harper, a spokesman for MNC - Iraq.

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CF Soldiers train IA on shooting techniques

Staff Sgt. Nick LaPlant, Scout Plt, 1st Bn, 87th Inf Regt, demonstrates proper body positioning to Iraqi Soldiers during a recent training at a range in Hawijah. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Margaret C. Nelson, 1st Bde, 10th Mtn. Div.,)

Staff Sgt. Nick LaPlant and Sgt. Josh Barr prepare to demonstrate how to properly advance on multiple targets while under fire as Iraqi Soldiers look on.

Sgt. Josh Barr  fires his M4 assault rifle during a demonstration on the proper technique for engaging multiple targets under fire.

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'Nightmares' help capture IED emplacers

TIKRIT - CF helicopters flying in northern Iraq helped capture 4 suspected criminals involved with emplacing
IEDs near Tikrit, June 20.
UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters attached to the "Nightmares" 3rd Assault Helicopter Bn, 1st AR spotted 4 suspicious persons south of Tikrit, and alerted area ground forces. The 4 men were later detained by CF.  Further investigation confirmed the individuals were involved in previous IED incidents near Tikrit.

A UH-60 Black Hawk attached to the 3rd Assault Helicopter Bn, 1st AR, lifts off from COB Speicher. The 3-1 AA "Nightmares" air and ground crews work around the clock sustaining air ops, and are part of the CAB, 1st ID, from Fort Riley Kan., flying in support of Task Force Iron, 1st Armored Div in northern Iraq. (Photo by U.S. Army Maj. Enrique T. Vasquez)

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Dear Interested Readers,
Ops around Iraq netted many criminals, including a high level AQI in Mosul.  IP take the lead in making Falluja's Khadairy District more secure.  Making us proud are our own troops giving their blood to save the life of an Iraqi. 
Joanna
_________________________

Multi-National Corps - Iraq
Public Affairs Office, Camp Victory
APO AE 09342

June 25, 2008

MND-B Soldiers detain suspected criminal

BAGHDAD -  June 24 in the Rashid district of southern Baghdad, while conducting a combined patrol in the Zubaida neighborhood, Soldiers from the 1st BCT, 4th ID and Iraqi NP, detained an individual wanted for aiding in mortar attacks against CF.

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Iraq Army detains 44, seizes cache

FOB KALSU -  In the Hillah area, June 22, Iraqi Soldiers detained 44 suspected criminals during ops in an-Neel, al-Imam,  Jabella and Diyara, as well as a small weapons cache.
"This is part of a larger op across the 31st IA Bde's area to increase presence in built-up areas in order to target suspected criminals and get them off the streets," said Maj. Mike Crane,an ops officer for the 4th Brde Special Troops Bn, 3rd ID. "There are warrants out for most of those who were detained and the rest are suspected of criminal activities. This was a successful op for the Iraqi SF, clearly demonstrating their effectiveness to keep their area safe for its citizens."

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Tuesday, 24 June 2008

MULTI-NATIONAL FORCE-IRAQ
PRESS DESK
BAGHDAD, Iraq

Al-Qaeda leader killed in Mosul 

BAGHDAD – One senior-level AQI leader was killed and a dozen suspects were detained when CF conducted ops striking terrorist networks around Iraq on Tuesday.
CF killed the AQI “emir” of Mosul as they continued to disrupt terrorist ops there.  When they reached the target building, the force was confronted by several terrorists committing hostile acts and exhibiting hostile intent, and they were forced to respond, killing 1 terrorist who reached for a pistol, 1 who attempted to detonate his suicide vest, and one female terrorist who tried to detonate the dead terrorist’s suicide vest.
A suspected terrorist facilitator with international ties was captured with 1 additional man in Tikrit.  During an op in a remote area southwest of Mosul, CF detained 2 suspects while targeting terrorist facilitators who conspire with AQI senior leaders.
In Baghdad, CF detained 5 suspected terrorists while targeting a senior terrorist leader in the area.

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Iraqi Police Lead the Way in Fallujah’s Khadairy District     

By Cpl. Chris Lyttle

Co K, 3rd Bn, 6th Marines assist IP in searching a house in a rural area of Fallujah, June 17. The company recently detached from a JSS in the Khadairy district to make way for the transition of security to Iraqi Police.  CF continue to provide an overwatch role for Iraqi missions.

FALLUJAH — The Joint Security Station (JSS) in the Khadairy District of Fallujah is now home solely to Iraqi Police, as Company K, 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 1, detached from the station in a step toward transitioning security to IPs.
IPs will continue their daily tasks here on their own as part of the transition of security from CF.  “We really didn’t ‘de-militarize’ it, we more or less unpartnered,” said 1st Lt. Cory Colistra, plt cmdr., 3rd Plt. “We left the station intact.  It’s an IP station now instead of a JSS.  We continue to work with them every day.  The mission is to transition provincial Iraqi control, and this is a physical example of us being one step closer to mission accomplishment.  The idea is that the Iraqis are taking over and we’re there as a backstop to support their ops.  Doing that allows the IPs to directly provide security and stability while the Marines indirectly influence that end state.”
“The mission and ops don’t change, but our method has transitioned to more of a support role,” Colistra said. “The Marines will advise the IPs on certain tactical issues, but it is the IPs who are running their own show. We will be in that overwatch position and step up when needed. This builds confidence for both the [Iraqi SF] and the local nationals, and that’s all they need. We’re slowly taking a step back, allowing the ISF to step up and they’re gaining control of their city one day at a time.  I would compare it to turning my battle position over to another Marine plt, but (in this case) we’re turning it over to the IPs,” Colistra said.
The IPs must work in their district without the constant presence of their Marine counterparts and be ready to operate on their own.  Colistra said there is no better time than now. With the local government’s support, IPs are building on their successes and Marines’ assistance is needed less with time.

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U.S. Blood Saving Iraqi Lives       

By Cpl. Tyler B. Barstow
1st Marine Logistics Group

Cpl. Taylor C. Kennedy, an aviation electrician technician with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Sqdrn 367, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, fills out a patient info form before having his blood drawn.  "I (gave blood) in high school but it means more here," said the 20-year-old . Photo by Cpl. Tyler Barstow.

CAMP TAQADDUM — Servicemembers from across Camp Taqaddum rushed to help save a life during a “walking blood bank," June 19.
The day was coming to an end for most service members when the call for B positive blood came, but for the staff at Camp Taqaddum Surgical, it was just beginning. They rushed about organizing a “walking blood bank” while they stabilized an IP that was injured by an IED.
“We’re here to save life, limb or eyesight,” explained Lt. j.g. Lindsay M. Touchette, a nurse with TQ Surgical, 1st Supply Bn (Reinforced.) The surgeons performed damage control to help stabilize the patient and refilled him with the blood he needed before he was shipped out. 
This is where the donors came in.  Service members from across the base came to resupply the patient’s lost blood. The fresh supply provides the necessary blood particles to handle the situation, without taking from the reserves stored at TQ Surgical.  Rather than providing specific components, such as blood platelets or blood plasma, a transfer of one unit of blood (about a pint) from a donor to the patient is the best for everyone.
Sailors, Soldiers and Marines filled the narrow hallway waiting to do their part and give some of their own supply of blood to someone in need.
This is the third time this week donors were needed to save the lives of their Iraqi counterparts.  Earlier this week, 2 IPs were injured and relied on the “walking blood bank” provided by TQ Surgical to get the care they needed. With the help of willing donors and the capable staff, they were all stabilized before being transferred for further care.

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Dear Interested Readers,
The big story today is the Industrial Service Center opening in Basra.  A key criminal is detained in karadah, and 7 other detained in Amarah.  Basic services such as sanitation and garbage removal in Basra getting prioritized as security and stability returns.
Joanna
___________________________________________

Multi-National Corps - Iraq
Public Affairs Office, Camp Victory
APO AE 09342

June 24, 2008

Citizen tip leads Soldiers to suspected key criminal in Karadah

BAGHDAD - In eastern Baghdad, June 23, after receiving a tip from a local citizen, Soldiers from the 4th BCT, 10th Mtn Div detained a suspected militant in the Zafaraniyah area of Karadah. The individual was highly sought after and is suspected of conducting IED attacks, kidnappings and murders.

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IPs help clean up Basra

BASRA - The IA helped bring stability and security to the streets with Operation Charge of the Knights, but Iraqi NP are increasing their visibility in the Basra area by taking on more responsibility: maintaining that security and working to clean up the streets in other ways. 
Basic services such as sanitation and garbage removal are a concern in several districts of the city. INPs have been working to provide security as the govt calls on the local community to assist in cleaning up the streets.
Police are visible during cleanup ops as well as when payments are made to community leaders and local citizens working on the projects.

An Iraqi National Police Major and a local community leader hang a Pro-Basra banner as local citizens gather to be paid for their efforts in cleaning the streets of Basra, June 17.  (U.S. Army photo by CPL Jeremiah Green)

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ISF seize weapon caches, detain 7

AMARAH - Iraqi SF, assisted by CF, seized 3 caches and detained 2 criminals during "Op Sign of Peace" in Amarah, June 20.
Iraqi Soldiers discovered a cache containing 40 PKC weapons, mortars, RPGs, IED making materials. a RPG scope, and a cellular phone, during clearing ops.
Detained were 2 suspected members of a criminal cell, also recovered 10 EFPs, 2 claymore mines and a heavy machine gun.
Two of the 5 detained militants were wearing women's clothing.
"Op Sign of Peace" is an Iraqi led, planned and executed op in Amarah to enforce the rule of law, reduce criminal safe havens and disrupt weapons smuggling. 
CF are providing technical assistance, advice and support to this op upon request from the GoI.

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Iraqi-Based Industrial Zone Service Center Opens at Balad       

By Staff Sgt. Les Newport
76th Inf BCT

76th Inf BCT Dep. Cmdr. Col. Kenneth Newlin meets with local leader Sheik Al-Tamimi on June 17 during the commemoration of a service center built by local Iraqis and members of the 76th at Joint Base Balad.  Photo by Sgt. Robert G. Cooper III.

BALAD — Joint Base Balad marked the beginning of a new program to spur progress in Iraq in the provinces surrounding the installation.
A ribbon cutting ceremony attended by Maj. Gen. R. Martin Umbarger, Adjutant Gen. of the Indiana National Guard, Brig. Gen. Gregory E. Couch, cmdr. of the 316th Expeditionary Sustainment Command and Sheik Al-Tamimi commemorated the opening of the Iraqi-Based Industrial Zone (I-BIZ) Service Center, Basateen Al-Dejayl General Training and Contracting Co., ltd., at Joint Based Balad. The initiative is being spearheaded by the 76th Infantry, Indiana Army National Guard.
“We are proud to call Iraqis our wonderful allies and we wish you the very, very best in your new venture,” said Umbarger.  Here is a local sheik very well respected in his community; able to create a business and work in conjunction with us as his allies, said Umbarger. “I think it’s a special step forward and it’s a real honor to be here today. I had an opportunity to speak to the sheik one-on-one. You can see that he is a person with a big heart; it’s a special day for him and likewise for me,” he said.
The center was selected as the first of several initiatives to provide local Iraqi business leaders with opportunities to tap into valuable military contracts, and provide a secure environment to grow their business.
“To fulfill what Gen. Petraeus’ dream was when he came here, and that is to get the Iraqi people the opportunity to work in their country and to take back the opportunity so they can support their own families,” said Couch. “So this is the beginning of a great partnership and I too, as I’m getting ready to leave here, wish all great success to the Sheik and the rest of the Iraqi partners that join in on the IBIZ function.”
Col. Courtney Carr, 76th Inf BCT cmdr. said the initiative is tied to a theater-wide initiative to drive business and economic prosperity to the local economy.  Significant improvements in the security of the local area, led by local Iraqi leaders, are the key that allows us to pursue these economic opportunities.
Col. Kenneth Newlin, Dep. Bde cmdr. and I-BIZ Program Director, sees the program as a natural progression of security and stability ops.  “The leaders and centers of influence that we are partnering with in establishing these businesses have the ability to influence economic progress and prosperity in Iraq.  This program allows us to consolidate recent security gains made in the region by the local and national govt that a year ago would not have been possible,” said Newlin.
In addition to the service center, which will provide maintenance for non-tactical vehicles owned by CF, JBB has plans for a host nation business center, shipping container remanufacturing facility, an industrial, wholesale, and retail facilities, and a vocational training program.

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Dear Interested Readers,
Our Engineering Companies are in the spotlight, solar lighting up neighborhoods in Baghdad, and helping to build infrastructure in Mosul, as security improves.  They're also passing on their knowledge to their Iraqi counterparts.  Special Group criminals continue to be captured or killed, and weapons/munition caches too numerous to recount, due to space, have been reported.
Joanna
_______________________________________

Multi-National Corps - Iraq

Public Affairs Office, Camp Victory
APO AE 09342

June 23, 2008

IA, MND-B Soldiers light up Baghdad neighborhood

BAGHDAD - At first glance it doesn't look like much: a construction site with a large wooden box strapped to a forklift, a crane, approx. 15 IA and MND - Baghdad Soldiers, and a small pile of equipment.  Such were the humble beginnings of a project that involves installing solar-powered street lights in order to deter militant and criminal activity, improve public safety and security, and ease the burdens on the growing Iraqi infrastructure.
"The 4th ID has been the driving force through this project," said Capt. Adam Levitt, currently on a military
transition team from 4th ID as the engineer advisor for the 6th IA Div.  "(They) came in and said, 'We want to do something to help the people and the Iraqi SF.'"
Levitt, along with Darryl Steadman, a civilian advisor, a translator and approx. 10 IA soldiers, began to install the first 4 of 100 solar-powered street lights, June 19.
"Right now, the infrastructure won't support [this many new lights]," said Steadman. "Although Iraq is working on the electrical grid and the infrastructure ... it's not quick enough.  We need something now, and this seems to be a pretty good solution."
According to Col. Ahmed Khalifa, cmdr. of the engineer battalion, the lights will provide the only light at night for some areas.  The installation of the first lights went smoothly.
"[The IA soldiers] want to be involved in this on a level that will show at least us, as advisors ... that they can handle this on their own and that they're ready to take on their mission with very little help or assistance from U.S. or CF," said Steadman.
"This project has been extremely rewarding, said Levitt. "Everybody's picking up a wrench; everybody's carrying heavy equipment. You don't need a translator for that."
Steadman, who served in Iraq in 2003-2004 as a member of the U.S. military, said that although he feels Iraq still has work to do, the country has come a long way. "I think this gives confidence to the people," said Steadman.
"People are driving up and down and seeing lights going in. What kind of message does this give to the people? We're here to help, and we're going forward; we're not stagnant."

2nd Lt. Wesam Mohamad, currently assigned to the 6th IA Div eng. bn, locks the mounting pole of a solar panel into place, as one of his fellow soldiers looks on.

Darryl Steadman (center left), describes the proper position for a mounting post for a solar panel to members of the 6th IA Div eng. bn.

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Mosul engineers reinforce the fight

TIKRIT - Since March, the 94th Eng. Bn has aided Iraqi SF in their effort to drive insurgents out of Mosul by providing force protection, combat outposts and safer roads.  Mosul may still be a dangerous place, but the unit's leadership remains positive.
"First, we're going to make Mosul safe. Then, we're going to make it better," said Lt. Col. Luke Leonard, bn cmdr.
Their component units, 77th Eng. Co. (Vertical), 103rd Eng. Co. (Horizontal), and 232nd Eng. Co. (Horizontal) continue to construct COPs and upgrade force protection in and around the city. They are also providing essential route clearance assets to clear the roads of IEDs, which is beyond its typical construction capabilities. 
The 59th Combat Effects Eng. Co. has conducted more than 7,000 km route clearance work since its arrival, making the roads in and around Mosul safe and trafficable.
The 94th Eng. Bn. has completed more than 50 construction projects in and around Mosul in 3 months, resulting in numerous COPs and traffic control points, which are essential to the fight in the city. Some outposts are many acres in size, while some are the size of a baseball diamond.  No matter what the size, however, they are all carefully planned and placed resulting in increased security in the surrounding neighborhoods.

Pfc. Andre Torres, a carpentry and masonry specialist assigned to the 77th Eng. Co., 94th Eng. Bn, puts the finishing touches on a Southwest Asia hut at a COP in Mosul, in April. SWAhuts are buildings used for lodging and work.

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MND-B Soldiers prevent Special Group criminals from emplacing IEDs, kill six

BAGHDAD - MND - Baghdad Soldiers disrupted efforts by Special Groups criminals to emplace IEDs, killing six and wounded another during a joint op in the New Baghdad security district of eastern Baghdad, June 20.
"Neither we nor our Iraqi partners will tolerate attempts by these criminals to inflict indiscriminate violence through the use of IEDs or other means," said Maj. Joey Sullinger, spokesperson for 4th BCT, 10th Mtn Div. "These Special Group criminals who do not lay down their arms and embrace Iraq's peaceful and prosperous future will be pursued, captured or killed."

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MND-B Soldiers detain suspected Special Groups criminal

BAGHDAD - At approx. 4:30 a.m., June 21 in the Rashid district of southern Baghdad, Soldiers from the 1st BCT, 4th ID, detained the highly sought after criminal during a targeted op in the Bayaa community.

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Engineers pass knowledge on to Iraqi counterparts

TIKRIT -  Engineers from the 232nd Combat Effects Co. (Horizontal) visited the 4th IA Div's Eng. Regt, June 19 to familiarize the team with key engineer equipment.
"We are one team," declared Lt. Col. Kameel, the cmdr. of the 1st Field Eng. Co., as he discussed the training with Capt. Abigail Cathelineaud, the cmdr. of the 232nd CEC, based out of Fort Leonard, Wood, Missouri. 
Iraqi eng. Soldiers took turns operating the armored grader under the supervision of Sgt. 1st Class David Sullivan.  He remarked on how eager the Iraqis were to get behind the complicated controls of the machine. "It was a great familiarization with the piece of equipment," he said.
Pvt. Erick Carrasco agreed, "It was productive and I learned at the same time."  He said this was the second time he worked with Iraqi engineers to train on equipment; the first time was operating the crane.  "I honestly look forward to working with them again because it's good for their country."

Lt. Col. Kameel and Capt. Abigail Cathelineaud, observes joint engineer training on June 19, at FOB Danger near Tikrit.

Sgt. 1st Class David Sullivan of the 232nd, puts an Iraqi eng. Soldier in the driver's seat as they get familiarized with the armored grader.

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MND-B Soldiers discover weapons, detain suspected criminal

BAGHDAD - June 21, in the Rashid district of southern Baghdad, at approx. 2 a.m., Soldiers from the 1st BCT, 4th ID, discovered 7 80 mm mortar rounds, a RPG with launcher, 2 mortar tubes, a pair of two-way radios, a rifle and a bipod, in the Jihad community.
Soldiers also detained a suspected criminal at approx. 8:45 a.m. in the Zubaida neighborhood.

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Dear Interested Readers,
Soccer may not be our troop's game, but when you see their faces, they always come out winners!  As security improves and the economy offers hope, more and more Iraqis are turning away from violence, thanks to the success of reconciliation programs.  The Gulf Region South Corps of Engineers is playing a big role in infrastructure rebuilding.  An orphanage and senior center sounds like a winning combination.  Huge weapons and munition caches continue to be seized, as well as criminals and terrorists.
Joanna
____________________________________________

Multi-National Corps - Iraq
Public Affairs Office, Camp Victory
APO AE 09342

June 22, 2008

Iraqi Army maintains security on streets of Basra

BASRA - The IA displayed its commitment to the security situation in Basra as elements conducted the 14th  phase of Op Charge of the Knights. 
The Op saw a number of Vehicle Check Points established by the IA with inspections carried out on every vehicle that passed through.  In addition, numerous houses were searched leading to multiple detaining of suspected militants.  More than 130 rounds of 150 mm High Explosive shells were also found in the northern section of the city.
The 50th, 51st and 52nd Brigades continue to be mentored by their respective UK MiTT, which are embedded with their Iraqi counterparts offering advice and guidance on request.

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Local nationals, SoI members battle MND-N Soldiers in soccer

Abu Saif, mayor of Multaka, (right), presents a trophy to a Soldier from the 1st Bde, 10th Mtn Div after a soccer match between the Soldiers and local nationals June 19, in Multaka. This was the third game in a five game series for the 1-87th Inf. Regt., as they seek to promote the human side of the U.S. Soldier, the non combatant, said the 1-87 Cmdr Lt. Col. Christopher Vanek.

Maj. Gen. Mark P. Hertling, Task Force Iron comm. gen., thanks an Iraqi player for his contribution to an 8-0 victory over Soldiers from the 1st Bde. The victors were comprised of Iraqi citizens, SoI members
and die-hard soccer players.

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Salah ad Din province leaders, Coalition forces discuss reconciliation plan

TIKRIT - Leaders from the provincial govt of the Salah ad Din province along with their Coalition partners from the 1st BCT, 101st Abn Div, met in Tikrit to discuss broadening the reconciliation process in the area.
"Reconciliation is the process where men who have been fighting Iraqi and CF renounce violence and pledge loyalty to the GoI," said Maj. Bill Rice, civil affairs officer and a spokesperson for the 1st BCT.   "As we expand reconciliation throughout the province, there are a lot of provincial level security, and legal and judicial entities that need to be coordinated."  
The reconciliation process began in May, when more than 500 former fighters turned themselves into Iraqi SFy and CF in the city of Balad.  The fighters chose to be accountable to the GoI for their actions by first initiating contact with ISF or CF.  In order to prevent misunderstandings, cross-judicial confusion and legal delays, it became necessary to coordinate reconciliation efforts at all levels of govt and security, said Rice.
"I think there are a lot of guys out there who placed IEDs or allowed somebody to hide caches on their farms to earn money to support their families as the economy collapsed. They have spent the last 3 or 4 years hiding from Iraqi and CF, thinking that they are wanted men, when in many cases they're not," said Rice.  "This is an opportunity for those men to come forward.  If they are or think they are fugitives, they are going to be existing on the fringes of society, and their economic and political potential is going to be
severely limited as Iraq begins to recover."

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Engineers detain criminals

TIKRIT - Soldiers with the 18th Eng. Bde captured 4 criminals during a route clearance mission south of Tikrit, June 20.
Helicopter recon observed several suspects digging on the shoulder of the highway and directed the nearby engineers to inspect the site.  As they drove to the location, the criminals split up and fled on foot, but were intercepted by the Soldiers.  Four men were detained at nearby farm buildings who tested positive for explosive residue. The Soldiers also found a vehicle belonging to the men that contained a large amount of cash and a small circuit tester.

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Project HOPE for Basra children

BASRA - Gulf Region South Corps of Engineers is working with Iraqi construction firms to build the Basra Children's Hospital, while Project Health Opportunities for People Everywhere, or HOPE, is adding its own
support by donating equipment.  Project HOPE has taken on the responsibility of equipping the facility and training the hospital staff.
Sharon Steele works with Project HOPE and visited the Basra Children's Hospital June 20. She went on a tour of the site with GRS engineers and architects to examine how the facility is progressing.  Nine Iraqi construction firms are working together with coordination by GRS to build the hospital. Once completed, the hospital will have over 90 beds for patients and on site housing for staff.
BCH will operate primarily as a pediatric cancer treatment facility. The help of Project HOPE for equipment and medical training for the staff keeps the hospital on schedule to open for patients in February 2009.

Members of the Gulf Region South Corps of Engineers and Sharon Steele of Project HOPE, pose in the
main entryway to Basra Children's Hospital.

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ISF, MND-B Soldiers detain two suspected criminals, find weapons

BAGHDAD -  IA Soldiers partnered with the 1st BCT, 4th ID, found 2 60 mm mortar rounds, 10 RPGs, 3 RPG launchers, an anti-personnel rocket and 5 fuses in the Saydiyah neighborhood, June 19.
Soldiers from the 22nd Inf. Regt., attached to the 1st BCT, 4th ID, responded to a tip and detained a suspected criminal in the Saha neighborhood at approximately 1 a.m., June 20. 
Soldiers from 1st BCT, 4th ID, conducted a search and detained a suspected criminal at approx. 3 a.m. in the Risalah area.

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New facility to accommodate orphans, elderly

IRBIL - It seems that in many developing countries, groups like orphans and the elderly receive little attention or are completely forgotten.  However, this is not the case in Iraq.  Here, the Kurdistan Regional Govt and the US Corps of Engineers clearly understand the importance of helping deprived individuals in need. 
A decaying orphanage was built in the heart of Irbil in the mid 1960s and was a mere structure for the orphans to call home.  But in 2007, nearly 40 years after the orphanage opened, the KRG and USACE
closed down the facility and paved the way for a new center for orphans and the elderly, dubbed the Irbil Orphanage and Senior Center.
"This is a packaged project consisting of an administration building, a multipurpose center and resident buildings," said Jalal, the chief engineer behind the project.  What makes this a unique project is the local govt wanted to give the residents a home-like environment while they stay at the center, Jalal said. 
Slated for completion at the beginning of September, the center will provide care for 145 orphans and 60 elderly.  "Everything has been thoroughly planned out," said Midhat, the project manager for the center.  
Boys and girls will be able to interact with each other when using the multipurpose hall. The massive multi-story structure will be the meeting point where children can let loose and enjoy themselves from acting in a play at the hall's stage to getting creative in the art room.
If the patrons of the new center can't find what they're looking for inside the hall, then surely they will find it outside on the soccer field or somewhere along the swimming pool. "We talked to the directors to see what they needed," Midhat said.  "They expressed the need for a swimming pool."
The residence for the elderly is equipped with an entrance ramp, an elevator and handrails to assist them when using the restrooms.  The senior center is also staffed with nurses to assist the elderly when needed.
"This is a humanitarian project," Midhat concluded.  "This is a gift for our people."

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ISF seizes three major caches in Amarah operation

BAGHDAD - The ISF have discovered 19 caches so far during the op.
The first cache was discovered in a cemetery outside of the city, which contained more than 240 RPG warheads, approx. 250 mortar rounds and more than 675 anti-tank mines.  Several rocket launchers were also found in the cache as well as EFP components.
A second cache was discovered in a militia HQ building in the downtown area of Amarah. The cache consisted of EFPs, 60 mm rounds, more than 50 82 mm rounds, 122 mm rounds, more than 40 155 mm rounds, several homemade bombs and anti-tanks rounds.
Iraqi SF also discovered another cache consisting of 82 mm mortar tubes, approx. 70 82 mm mortar rounds and approx. 100 60 mm mortar rounds.

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Dear Interested Reader,
Our troops and their Iraqi counterparts have been busy with successful missions.  Clearing insurgents and weapons make streets safer.  Most of us have seen pictures of horrific sand storms, and for 2,000 Iraqis to brave the storm and come out for an IP recruitment drive is awesome.
An enemy that would kidnap a 12 year old child has a happy ending.
Joanna
_______________________________________

Multi-National Corps - Iraq
Public Affairs Office, Camp Victory
APO AE 09342

June 21, 2008

 

ISF clear insurgents out of Amarah

AMARAH - Iraqi SF started clearing ops in Amarah June 19 following a 4-day amnesty period for weapons turn in.  The op, planned and led by Iraqi SF, is focused on routing out criminals and militants in the area.  CF are providing advisory assistance to Iraqi SF.
During the amnesty period, 17 artillery rounds and a machine gun were turned into Iraqi SF.  A militia HQ was seized by Iraqi SF after a weapons cache was discovered containing 676 mines, 249 mortar rounds, 241 RPGs and 4 homemade-rocket launchers.
In ops surrounding Amarah, a total of 273 mortar rounds were discovered, along with numerous other accelerants. 

Iraqi Security Forces line the streets of Amarah with a weapons cache discovered in a militia HQ.

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ISOF capture suspected criminal leader in Baghdad

BALAD -  In southern Baghdad June 19, the ISOF conducted the operation to capture the suspected
criminal believed to be an influential advisor in west Baghdad.  The suspect allegedly has close ties to the Office of the Sadr in Najaf, and is suspected of having the ability to nominate Special Groups command positions in Baghdad.

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Iraqi Army soldiers discover multiple weapons caches in Sadr City

BAGHDAD -  June 19, Iraqi soldiers seized multiple weapons caches containing 56 RPGs, 9 82 mm round, a mortar aiming device, 9 RPG-7 propellants, a RPG-7 scope, 2 rifles, a flare gun, 6 full AK-47 mags, 2 Katusha rocket and 4 propellants; an RPG propellant charge, blasting caps, approximately 2 pounds of shrapnel, 12 hand grenades,  a block of C4, a bazooka rocket, 50 meters of wire, 11 AK-47 rifles, a day vision scope, 3 sets of body armor, 5 RPG launchers,  a 120 mm mortar round, 12 RPG rockets,  an anti-tank mine, 100 mortar propellants, 4 60 mm mortar rounds,  a day sight optic, 6 propellant charges, a 60 mm bipod, 8 82 mm mortar cap charges, 5 grenade blasting charges, 10 exploder primers, 5 120 mm propellant charges and approx. 250 pounds of TNT explosive.

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MND-B Soldiers confiscate munitions in, around Baghdad

BAGHDAD - June19, Soldiers with the 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID, seized t2 handheld grenades north of Baghdad at approx. 4 a.m. 
At approx. 9 a.m., Soldiers with the 1st BCT, 4th ID uncovered a 155 mm round, a 60 mm mortar tube and 2 artillery fuses in the East Rashid district of Bagdad.
Soldiers from 2nd SBCT, 25th ID., also seized 20 60mm mortars and 4 artillery rounds northwest of Bagdad at approx. noon.

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MND-B Soldiers detain suspected criminal, locate cache in Rashid

BAGHDAD -  June 19, at approx. 4:15 a.m., Soldiers from the 1st BCT, 4th ID, detained a person suspected of Special Groups attacks against MND-B Soldiers and Iraqi SF in the Aamel neighborhood.
At approx. 9:30 a.m., Soldiers from the 4th Inf Regt, attached to the 1st BCT, 4th ID, located a 155 mm artillery round, a 60 mm mortar tube and 2 artillery fuses in the Jazeera area.

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ISOF capture four suspected ISI cell members

BALAD -  In eastern Mosul, June 19, the ISOF conducted an op to capture senior planning and ops members of an ISI cell reportedly responsible for IED and mortar attacks against Iraqi and CF. The members are also suspected of kidnapping and murder in order to intimidate and extort the people of Mosul. 

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Thousands endure storm to become IPs

BAGHDAD - Approx. 2000 Iraqi citizens began the process of becoming IP at the Furat IP Training Facility in Baghdad June 17, despite a sandstorm that blanketed the city.
IP officials and MP Soldiers with the 18th MP Bde set up a 4-day recruiting drive at the Furat facility to reach a goal of sending 1300 new recruits to Basic Recruit Training.
"A little over 2000 civilians showed up today," said 1st Lt. Christopher Gehri, officer in charge of the Furat IP Training Facility.  "We can process through about 400 recruits a day with a total goal of 1300 recruits in 4 days."
The Police Transition Team was ecstatic to see the number of civilians who braved the weather to become IPs.  The increase in police force is intended to strengthen the overall security of Baghdad and is aimed at training more than 25,000 IP recruits by 2008.
Officials say more than 22,000 police have already been deployed in the Iraqi capital as part of the first phase of expansion.  "We are getting the job done," said Gehri. "We are providing the amount of Iraqi SF to provide a stable Baghdad, which is our goal."  Gehri has been working with IPs in Baghdad for 9 months and says he has seen a great improvement in the IP force since arriving. "They are taking whatever we teach them and they are running with it," said Gehri. "They are doing a great job."
Staff Sgt. William Lile, 223rd MP Co, Kentucky National Guard, agrees with Gehri on the improvements in the IP and Iraqi way of life since his last deployment.  "It's amazing to see the difference in quality of life improvements for the Iraqi people," said Lile. "They have electricity, sometimes all day now, water, and they have established a strong infrastructure since the last time I was here.  They are doing everything they can to rebuild for themselves.  We are just providing security in the process."
"We are succeeding and we will be successful," said Gehri.

SoI wait in line outside the Furat IP Training Facility June 17, to start the process of becoming IP recruits.

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NPs save kidnapped child, seize weapons in New Baghdad

BAGHDAD - Iraqi NP rescued a kidnapped 12-year-old Iraqi boy and seized a weapons cache while patrolling the New Baghdad security district of eastern Baghdad, June 18.
The NPs answered a child's calls for help while conducting a cordon-and-search mission of Muhalla 759 in the Kamaliyah area of New Baghdad, according to a NP Transition Team report.
While in the first suspected kidnapper's house, NPs found and seized a weapons cache consisting of 4 EFPs, 2 RPG launchers, an anti-tank mine, 17 AK-47 rifles, 9 other rifles of various types, a 9 mm pistol, a 60 mm mortar round, a 120 mm mortar round, C-4 explosives and TNT with blasting caps.

 

An Iraqi father holds his 12-year-old son tightly upon reuniting after criminals kidnapped the boy.

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MND-B Soldiers detain known weapons trafficking criminal, NPs find weapons cache

BAGHDAD - June 18 in the Rashid district of southern Baghdad, at approx. 1:15 a.m. in the Hadar community, Soldiers from the 1st BCT, 4th ID, detained a criminal suspected to be responsible for numerous roadside bomb attacks, weapons trafficking and the murder of innocent Iraqis.
Iraqi NP uncovered a RPG round with launcher, 4 hand grenades, and approx. 650 7.62 mm rounds while conducting a combined patrol in the Bayaa neighborhood.

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MND-B Soldiers detain four suspected criminals, remove weapons from streets

BAGHDAD - Soldiers from the 1st BCT, 4th ID, detained 2 individuals possessing an EFP, 60 fuses, 2 anti-tank mines, 2 RPGs, a 60 mm mortar and a pair of two-way radios June 18 at approx. 10 p.m. in the Aamel neighborhood.
At approx. 12:45 a.m. June 19, after responding to a tip, Soldiers from the 1st BCT, 4th ID arrested 2 triggermen waiting to detonate a roadside bomb in the Zubaida area.

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ISF, MND-B Soldiers seize munitions throughout Baghdad

BAGHDAD - June 18, Iraqi NP found an AK-47, 3 Katusha rockets, 6 EFPs,  4 152 mm rounds, 2 120 mm rounds, 3 105 mm rockets, 7 82 mm mortars, 2 RPG launchers ,6 RPG rounds, 6 OG-7 rockets, a land mine, 51 blasting cap, a 10-inch copper liner, 15 mortar primers, C4 explosives, a box of bulk TNT, several belts of RPK ammo, 3 kilograms of explosive paste and various improvised explosive cables in the Muhalla area of New Baghdad, and the West Rashid area.
Later in the day, Soldiers from the 4th BCT, 10th Mtn Div, found 2 60 mm mortar rounds, 6 homemade
explosive grenades, 3 RPGs, 2 loaded M16 magazines and an AK-47 magazine at 3:25 p.m. in New Baghdad.
Soldiers from the 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th Inf Div, seized 28 120 mm mortars and a 120 mm mortar approx. an hour later in northwest Baghdad.
Soldiers from the 1st BCT, 4th ID, found an EFP, 60 fuses, 2 anti-tank mines, 2 RPGs, a 60 mm mortar and 2 radios at 10 p.m. in West Rashid.

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Dear Interested Readers,
Thanks to compassionate Americans, Iraqi child will have life saving operation, and donating blood saves the lives of 2 IP.  Hawijah literacy program off to a good start.  Suspected terrorists captured, and huge quantities of weapons and munitions caches seized.
Joanna
____________________________

Multi-National Corps - Iraq
Public Affairs Office, Camp Victory
APO AE 09342

June 20, 2008

Iraqi Army captures suspected terrorist leader, detain four others

BALAD - In Mosul, June 18, the IA conducted an op to disrupt terrorist activities and cell ops.  They captured a suspected terrorist leader accused of facilitating and distributing IEDs in the area. The suspected terrorist is allegedly responsible for numerous IED and VBIED attacks on Iraqi and CF.  The suspect is also accused of engaging and killing CF on numerous occasions over the past 3 years. The IA also detained 4 other suspected terrorists during the op.

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Iraqi child to receive life saving surgeries June 30

FOB DELTA - When she was born, doctors didn't expect her to live a week, but a one-year-old Iraqi girl is defying the odds.  She overcame the initial diagnosis, but without proper care, Noor Majeed could still die.
Fortunately, surgeons in Boston have agreed to donate their services to help her, and a donor in Cambridge, Mass., donated $100,000 for her medical care.  Noor's surgery is scheduled June 30 at Boston Children's Hospital.
The care required to correct bladder exstrophy is unavailable in Iraq. In addition to surgery to repair the bladder, Noor will also require orthopedic surgery on her pelvis and hips, as well as reconstruction and corrective procedures, said Capt. Michael Mullaly, an operating room nurse with the 912th Forward Surgical Team.  Mullaly was attached to the 948th FST as an operating room nurse when Noor began treatment in the FOB Delta medical facility.
"When Noor was born, and when I saw her condition, I wished to die," said Zainab Najy, Noor's mother. "I felt hopeless and helpless.  And because of the lack of adequate care that can treat her, and because of our financial situation, we could not afford to help her.  I was expecting her to die at any moment; I even told my mother that I don't want to get attached to her, because I thought she would die soon.
"But as days go by, Noor resisted and stayed alive.  I was hurt all the time as I watched other children walking and playing.  But, Noor can't even sit or walk.  My life became filled with depression, sadness and pain, but now, I am happy because I feel that Noor will live and all this made possible by the American people, and the American troops and the medical staff who helped us save Noor's life," she said.
"My feeling was desperate, for a father who sees his daughter suffering, and we could not help her.  The Iraqi doctors could not help her, that's why we came (to Army doctors)," said Neseer M. Jemeel, Noor's father.  "I was so happy when I heard my daughter will be treated, because I had lost hope completely. I feel safe because (the Americans) are caring. They care about children, mothers -- they know life is valuable, and they are true human beings."
When Noor and her mother arrive in Boston, they will be greeted by a friendly face - Mullaly, now an operating room nurse at St. Vincent's Hospital in Worchester, Mass., plans to meet them when they land.  "It can be overwhelming," said Mullaly of traveling to a new country where you know no one and don't speak the language. "I think a familiar face would make it easier.  I'm pretty vested in this case. I'm attached to this baby."

Zainab Najy holds her daughter, Noor, at the FOB Delta medical facility before the infant received several life-saving procedures. 

Capt. Mike Mullaly, an operating room nurse anesthetist attached to the 948th FST, carries Noor into the operating room with her mom, Zainab Najy looking on.

Staff Sgt. Andrea Bolton, 26th BSB, 3rd ID, checks on Noor May 14 at the FOB Delta medical facility.

Noor Majeed at the FOB Delta medical facility.

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Sharqat Emergency Response Unit detains three suspected terrorists, recovers cache

BALAD - In the village of al-Kedraniyah, approx. 98 km southeast of Mosul, June 17, the ERU conducted the op to search for weapons caches.  They seized a significant number of weapons and ammo, consisting of approx. 100 pounds of explosive material with assorted fuses, boosters and chargers; anti-personnel land mines; a sniper system with home-made silencer; a Katyusha rocket; several hand grenades; and several thousand small arms and artillery rounds.
During the op, the ERU also detained 3 suspected terrorists with the ISI, a front organization for the foreign-led AQI.

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ISF, NP, MND-B Soldiers seize weapons caches throughout Baghdad

BAGHDAD - June 18, in Sadr City, IA seized 3 RFPs, a PKC machine gun, 2 EFPs, 6 light anti-armor launchers, 11 anti-tank RPG rounds, 2 anti-personnel RPG rounds, a machine gun, several AK-47 mags, a pair of night vision goggles, 2 14 mm rounds, 2 25 mm sights, 3 AK-47s and more than 200 7.62 rounds, 2 RPGs, a fuse and a 9 mm machine gun at approx. 6 a.m.
Approx. 2 hours later, IA Soldiers with the 2nd BCT, 101st Abn Div (AASLT), found a weapons cache in the Mansour district, consisting of 3 RPGs, a box of 12.7 mm rounds, a machine gun; 1,000, 7.62 mm rounds; 2 120 mm rounds, a set of body armor plates, detonation cord, a blasting cap and homemade explosives.
Iraqi NP uncovered a weapons cache in the West Rashid district,consisting of a RPG launcher, a war head, 4 hand grenades and approximately 700 7.62 rounds.

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Tip leads Soldiers to militants with ties to cache, explosives

BAGHDAD -  June 18, after receiving a tip from a local resident, Soldiers from the 4th BCT, 10th Mtn Div (Lt), conducted an op to capture criminals in the Shawra Wa Um Jidir neighborhood and detained 3 militants allegedly associated with a weapons cache seized in a metal shop, June 13. The 3 were also believed to be involved with 3 EFPs uncovered in a car, May 15.  The Soldiers also detained 3 of their alleged associates.

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Hawijah literacy program

During a recent site check of schools in Hawijah and Riyadh, Lt. Col. Christopher Vanek, cmdr, 1st Bn, 87th Inf Regt., 1st Bde, 10th Mtin Div, met with the staff and visited with students at 2 sites for updates regarding the pilot literacy program underway there.  The 2 schools visited are involved in a literacy program envisioned by Gen. David H. Petraeus, the comm. gen of MNF - Iraq, and carried out by Soldiers of the 1st Bn.
It is designed to prepare 500 SoI members in the Hawijah district of northeastern Iraq for the application process that is necessary to be considered as candidates for the IP and IA.

Capt. William Shields, EO, Co Delta, 1st Bn, speaks with a teacher at the Riyadh site of a pilot literacy program.

A teacher instructs Riyadh SoI members in a pilot literacy program designed to transition SOI members into the Iraq SF.

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Service members, civilian contractors donate blood, save lives of two IPs

Petty Officer 1st Class Mike J. Loesch, the Walking Blood Bank supervisor, 1st Marine Logistics Group, draws blood from Petty Officer 3rd Class Charles H. Casler, a hospital corpsman, Medical Co., 1st Supply Bn., 1st MLG, at Camp Taqaddum Surgical, June 18.  Two IPs wounded in separate incidents Monday may have died had it not been for the quick response of CF to donate blood. The blood reached the casualties within 20 minutes of the "walking blood bank" being opened.

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ISF, MND-B Soldiers seize weapons, munitions

BAGHDAD -   June 17, in a combined patrol with IA soldiers and Iraqi NP, seized were 20 rifles of various types, 7 pistols, a radio, a scope, a taser, a military map and 150 rounds of ammo at approx. 4 a.m. in  Kadhamiyah.
Later in the day, Soldiers from the 2nd BCT, 101st Abn Div (AASLT), found 2 EFPs, 3 60 mm mortar rounds, 3 RPG launchers, 3 RPG charges, 5 grenades, 4 spools of cord, a mortar tube, 2 IED initiators, 400 rounds of 7.62 mm ammo, 3 RPGs and 4 RPGs rigged as IEDs.

-30-

ISOF capture suspected Special Groups criminal leader in Baghdad

BALAD -  In Baghdad June 16, the ISOF conducted the op to capture the criminal believed to be responsible for emplacing IEDs and organizing meetings of Special Groups criminals targeting Iraqi and CF.  He is also suspected of an IED attack against a U.S. convoy in November 2007, which damaged an M1 tank.

-30-

Iraqi Border Patrol detains suspected terrorist, recovers weapons caches

BALAD - The Iraqi Border Patrol detained a suspected terrorist and recovered 2 weapons caches in Butha, approx. 80 km west of Tal Afar, June 16.
IBP officers were conducting an op to search for weapons caches when they discovered a house in an apparently abandoned village containing 100 pounds of ammonium nitrate, a box of 90 mm ammo, and 9 unidentified explosive containers.
After searching the village, officers discovered a family and the suspected terrorist living in one of the houses. They determined the suspect threatened the family in order to use their home as a hiding place after he fled the weapons cache site.  The suspect is identified as a member of the ISI,  a front org. for AQI.  He allegedly trains future ISI members.  He admitted to knowing about the cache and said an associate owned the cache house.
An additional 150 pounds of ammonium nitrate were recovered from another abandoned home nearby.

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Dear Interested Readers,
A suspected AQI cell member captured in Balad, and a suspected ISI cell leader captured in Mosul.  4 suspected criminals detained in Rashid, while huge weapons and munition caches are seized.  We are also witness to the heroism of 2 U.S. Army air crews.
Joanna
_________________________________________

Multi-National Corps - Iraq
Public Affairs Office, Camp Victory
APO AE 09342

June 19, 2008

Emergency Response Unit captures suspected AQI cell member

BALAD -  June 17, the ERU conducted an op to arrest a suspected AQI cell member on a Ministry of Interior warrant reportedly responsible for extra-judicial killings, IED and small arms fire attacks against Iraqi and CF and local intimidation.

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Iraqi Army captures ISI cell leader in Mosul 

BALAD - The IA captured a suspected cell leader for the Islamic State of Iraq, a front organization for AQI, in Mosul, June 17.
The IA conducted an op to capture an ISI cell leader believed to be responsible for transporting weapons, emplacing IEDs and conducting IED attacks against CF. His cell is said to have murdered, kidnapped for ransom, and supported other ISI/AQI ops in the area.

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MND-B Soldiers detain four suspected criminals

BAGHDAD - In the Rashid district of southern Baghdad, June 17, Soldiers from 1st BCT, 4th ID, arrested 4 individuals suspected of ties to a known Special Groups criminal in the Zubaida neighborhood about 3 a.m.

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IA, NP, MND-B Soldiers uncover multiple caches in Sadr City, Baghdad

BAGHDAD - IA Soldiers seized 8 weapons caches June 17 as they continue efforts to make Sadr City a safer place.
The combined caches consisted of 2 130 mm rounds, 2 122 mm rounds, 3 57 mm rounds and 31 12.7 mm rounds 2 RPG-7 rounds, 2 rifles, a RPK machine gun, 2 rocket launchers, 2 AK-47, 10 AK-47 mags, 18 60 mm mortar rounds, a radio, an Egyptian sniper rifle, 2 remote-control devices, 2 rolls of detonation cord, 5 initiation devices, an RPG-7 anti-personnel round, 2 155 mm IEDs, 12 120 mm rounds, 19 82 mm mortar rounds, 3 grenades, one 12.7 mm machine gun, a 155 mm round, a 100 mm round, a 60 mm smoke round,  4 RPG-7 anti-tank rounds, 96 PKC rounds, and 2 82 mm mortar fuses,
Soldiers serving with the 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID, MND-B, found 21 57 mm artillery shells, 87 57mm warheads, and a mortar round at approx. 9 a.m. in an area north of Baghdad.
In the West Rashid district, Iraqi NP seized 4 rocket rails and 7 60 mm mortar rounds.
"Since May 20, 270 weapons and munitions caches have been seized by Iraqi SF and CF in the Baghdad area," said Col. Allen Batschelet, chief of staff, MND-B and the 4th ID spokesman. "These caches included 449 EFPs and IEDs, 1,268 mortar rounds, 606 RPGs, 178 rockets and 3,012 rifles."

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Army aircrews receive medals for heroism

TIKRIT - Two aircrews with the 3rd Assault Helicopter Bn, 1st AR, CAB, 1st ID, received medals for heroism in a ceremony at COB Speicher, June 14.
Lt. Col. James H. Bradley Jr. received the Silver Star Medal and Chief Warrant Officer Lyndle Ratliff received the Distinguished Flying Cross.  Chief Warrant Officer James Howe, Chief Warrant Officer Joseph Henry, Sgt. Paul Perdock, Sgt. Fredrick Benuzzi, Spc. Kenneth Steinmetz, and Spc. Jacob Norotsky received the Air Medal with Valor.
Bradley and his crews distinguished themselves while conducting an air assault, and an insertion of an aerial reaction force.  After infiltration, the ground troops began taking casualties from enemy fire.
Bradley realized the supporting Apache gunships could not engage the enemy because they were so close to friendly forces. He immediately directed an assault of the insurgents' position to allow the reaction force to withdraw.
Bradley and Henry began a series of low, sweeping passes to clearly identify enemy and friendly positions.  Ratliff and Howe laid down suppressing fire while the door gunners engaged the enemy with machine gun fire. 
Despite receiving enemy fire to the cockpit and the rest of his aircraft, Ratliff and Howe engaged the enemy.  The two crews also hovered close to the enemy to allow the door gunners to better engage
enemy forces.  Bradley and his crew made 3 deliberately slow passes under heavy enemy fire, expending all his ammo and killing or injuring most of the enemy in their ambush position.
Even though the door gunners were out of ammo, the 2 teams remained over the besieged troops exposing their aircraft -- hoping to draw enemy fire away from the reaction force Soldiers.
"Let me tell you, I've seen the overhead film of the fight, and I walked the ground of the fight, and had it not been for those 2 aircrews, there would have been several more memories of Soldiers who didn't make it through that day," said Maj. Gen. Mark P. Hertling, the comm. gen. of MND - North.  "But when you talk about the heroism of the people we just awarded, it's just unbelievable.   As I walked through that line, and looked in the eyes of each one of these Soldiers, all I saw was humility."

Maj. Gen. Mark P. Hertling presents the Silver Star to Lt. Col. James H. Bradley Jr., the cmdr. of the 1st AR, June 14.  Bradley received the medal for his actions in support of combat ops east of Balad, Jan. 16.

Spc. Kenneth Steinmetz, a door gunner shakes hands with Maj. Gen Mark P. Hertling, after receiving the Air Medal with valor.

Chief Warrant Officer Lyndle Ratliff, a helicopter pilot shakes hands with Maj. Gen Mark P. Hertling after receiving the Distinguished Flying Cross.

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Dear Interested Readers,
Security in Southern Baghdad has taken a foothold, enough for children and teachers to safely go to school.  The opening of the Yarmouk sub-station will improve the health and welfare of the people of Northwest Baghdad, with the expectation of more sub-stations opening in the future.  High level criminals captured and more weapons and munition caches seized.
Joanna
__________________________________

Multi-National Corps - Iraq
Public Affairs Office, Camp Victory
APO AE 09342

June 18, 2008

A Soldiers discover several weapons caches in Sadr City

BAGHDAD - IA Soldiers seized several weapons in the Sadr City district of Baghdad, June 16, during continuing security ops. The caches contained 2 RPG launchers, 2 RPG rounds, 30 37 mm rounds, a box containing PKC machine gun and AK-47 ammo, 2 155 mm rounds, 2 of 130 mm rounds, 122 mm rounds, a few armored vests, a 30 liter steel container full of PKC and 5.56 mm ammo, RPG-7 anti-personnel rounds, RPG-7 anti-armor rounds, RPG propellants, an SPG rocket, a set charger, a remote detonator, 4 electrical detonators, a flash bang grenade, around 430 feet of detonation wire, nearly 20 full AK-47 magazines, multiple 82 mm mortar pressure devices, rocket tubes, 60 mm rounds, initiation devices, radios, radio chargers, more than a dozen hand grenades and an IED.

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MND-B Soldiers detain Special Groups criminal leader

BAGHDAD - MND - Baghdad Soldiers detained a suspected Special Groups criminal leader in the Kamaliyah neighborhood of Baghdad's New Baghdad security district, June 16.
The detained criminal leader is suspected of personally emplacing and detonating IEDs targeting both
Iraqi SF and CF.

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Soldiers capture two militants, NPs detain suspects

BAGHDAD - In the New Baghdad security district of eastern Baghdad, June 16, based on tips from Iraqi citizens, Soldiers from the 4th BCT, 10th Mtn Div (Lt), conducted an op in Beladiyat that resulted in the capture of 2 wanted criminals.  The Soldiers also confiscated a video camera and a computer.
"One of the detainees is a Special Groups criminal allegedly responsible for an EFP attack that killed a civilian June 14 and is associated with indirect fire attacks on FOB Loyalty," said Maj. Joey Sullinger, a spokesperson for MND-B. The suspect is also accused of videotaping the unprovoked attacks and distributing them via the Internet.
The other suspect is a Special Groups militant believed to be associated with IDF attacks on FOB Loyalty and emplacing IEDs in New Baghdad.

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Al Hillah SWAT team captures suspected Special Groups criminal

BALAD -  June 13, the ISWAT conducted an op to capture the suspected criminal leader, who reportedly planned and conducted attacks against the Al Hillah Regional Embassy Office, ordered killings of Americans in Al Hillah and the assassinations of key leaders in the ISWAT. 
The criminal is also suspected of IED attacks and indirect fire attacks against Iraqi and CF, weapons
trafficking and document forgery.  It is alleged that he has direct links with highly sought-after Special Groups criminals leaders, financiers and has personal knowledge of the movement of lethal arms through the Al Hillah area.

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IA, MND-B Soldiers uncover weapons caches

BAGHDAD - Multi-National Division - Baghdad Soldiers discovered 2 weapons caches June 15 - 16 in the Rashid district of southern Baghdad.  The caches included several grenades of various types, an IED, explosives, and a tube with stabilizer fins while on patrol in the Saydiyah neighborhood.
At approx. 1:45 a.m. June 16, Soldiers from the 64th AR, attached to the 1st BCT, 4th ID., seized 7 RPG
rounds, a mortar round, fuses, a 60 mm mortar and 2 RPG-7 launchers in the Saydiyah community.

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ISOF capture suspected Special Groups criminal

BALAD - June 13, the ISOF conducted an op to capture the criminal, who was highly sought after and allegedly involved in EFP and IED attacks against CF in the Rusafa area of Baghdad. 
One additional suspect was detained.

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Security, Funding Sends Southern Baghdad Students Back to School     

By Army Sgt. David Turner

Students of the Menahay Primary School in southern Baghdad pose for a photo at their makeshift school.  When al-Qaida operatives destroyed their school, students took classes in a nearby 5-room private home until their school could be rebuilt.

FOB KALSU — For school children in the southern Baghdad area, getting an education has become a difficult and even dangerous prospect in recent years.  In some cases, supplies were short and facilities were in disrepair. Sometimes the teachers weren't there. In a few cases, the schools themselves were all but gone.
The area where the 3rd ID's 2nd BCT arrived in June 2007 had long been an insurgent stronghold, with many villages controlled by al-Qaida terrorists who kept children, especially girls, from attending school.  With no coalition or Iraqi SF presence, local schools suffered the same fate as many farms and businesses in the area. They were looted and damaged, and even became battlegrounds.
"About two years ago, the Ministry of Education ordered all of the teachers out of the rural areas because the security situation was so bad," said Army Capt. Trista Mustaine, education advisor to the Baghdad 7 ePRT, which works with 2nd BCT soldiers to rebuild the local infrastructure and economy.
With the school year now over for children in the area, it's a chance for workers to complete renovations and building projects throughout the 2nd BCT's area of operation.
Although reconstruction costs largely have been provided by coalition forces up to now, the GoI is taking up the task and helping get local schools repaired and reopened before the next school year begins.
As he and his soldiers near redeployment in July, Army Capt. Richard Aaron, cmdr. of Btry B, 1st Bn, 9th FA, feels good about the work they have done. "We've made a huge impact on the community with the school, and with other projects we've done," he said.
Now that the area is safe again and schools are getting the attention they need, the GoI is ready to re-invest in a more significant way.  "As of about a month ago, the Ministry of Education has ordered the teachers to return to their rural schools," Mustaine said.  Thanks to gains made by 2nd BCT, she said, government officials can work freely in the area to make sure their schools have what they need to teach the children.

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Public Works Substation Opens in Yarmouk       

By Sgt. Paul Monroe
2nd BCT, 101st Abn Div

Brig. Gen. Ghassan, comm. officer talks with a local television network to get the word out to the local populace about the establishment of the public works substation, June 14, in Yarmouk, a neighborhood in northwest Baghdad.  Soldiers with 2nd BCT, 101st Abn div, helped local officials establish the substation. 

BAGHDAD —  The Yarmouk substation will serve the southeast Mansour District and provides workers a place to store equipment used for basic services, such as trash removal and sewage maintenance.  “All of this was built from scratch” said 1st Lt. Nicholas Anderson, a civil military ops officer with the 4th “Straight Arrows” Bn, 42nd FAR, 1st BCT, 4th ID, operationally attached to the 2nd BCT, 101st Abn. Div.
Blackjack Soldiers picked up where the Soldiers they replaced from 2nd “Patriot” Bn, 32nd FAR, 1st inf Div, left off, who worked during their 15-month deployment to improve security and get essential services going. The unit went as far as hiring 50 workers to pick up trash in the Yarmouk area, while funding for the substation was on hold.  The Straight Arrows Soldiers are working just as hard to take advantage of improved security and are striving to work on finishing the essential service projects the Patriot Bn started.
The ceremony, however, did not mark the end of work for the substations, said Anderson, adding that the substation currently employs 53 Yarmouk residents with proposals to eventually increase that number to 100.
“We construct the site; we hire all the workers; we provide equipment for them” said Col. Louis Fazekas the Baghdad-6 governance team leader part of the ePRT supporting the 2nd BCT, 101st Abn. Div., who explained it was part of the agreement.  He said there is an expectation that local officials will hire the workers and purchase the equipment after one year.
Originally, Stryke brigade Soldiers planned to open 4 substations in Northwest Baghdad. The success of PWSS sites in the Adil and Ghazaliyah neighborhoods in northwest Baghdad has opened the possibility of opening additional substations.

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Dear Interested Readers,

There's an interesting story of the dedication by our Army mechanics to keeping their vehicles rolling.  Iraqi SF graduate from NP leadership course.  Gen. Patraeus visits Hawijiin in honor of Army's 233rd birthday, and to applaud the progress of the troops there.  High level militant leaders are captured, along with cell members, and huge weapons and munitions caches continue to be seized.
Joanna
___________________________________________

Multi-National Corps - Iraq
Public Affairs Office, Camp Victory
APO AE 09342

June 17, 2008

MND-B Soldiers find weapons caches

Spc. Christopher Jamison digs out mortar rounds from a weapons cache found in Al Rikia, a village northwest of Baghdad, June 10.  Soldiers from 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID, found the enemy weapons cache through the help of the local residents. Jamison is a scout from Ace High Troop, 2-14 Cav. Regt.

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IA, MND-B Soldiers uncover weapons in Baghdad

BAGHDAD - June 15, IA soldiers seized 25 AK-47s, 3 sniper rifles, 2 Barno rifles, an IED, 2 hand grenades, an electronic mortar sighting system, 500 PKC rounds, 20 AK-47 rounds, and 2 flak jackets in Sadr City.
In the Ur area of Kadhamiyah, IA soldiers and soldiers from 2nd BCT, 101st Abn Div (AASLT), seized 2 IEDs, a 107 mm rocket, 81 primers, 31 blasting caps, 10 sticks of TNT and a mortar.
In the Yarmouk area of Mansour, soldiers from 2nd BCT, 101st Abn. Div., discovered 2 grenades, 2 AK-47s, a shotgun, a pistol and 1,000 rounds of small-arms ammo.

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'Vehicle medics' convoys rolling in central Iraq

BALAD - The sides of the Iraqi desert highways or crowded city streets are no place for a vehicle to break down. These littered arteries can mask a multitude of dangers from IEDs planted underneath piles of trash to snipers hiding in the crevices of previous roadside IED sites.
U.S. Army mechanics at Special Ops Task Force - Central work anywhere from 10 to 16 hours a  day under the desert sun's scorching heat repairing the U.S. military's battle-scarred vehicles for SF Soldiers rolling convoys on the streets of southern Iraq. The mechanics work in sweat-soaked shirts, elbow-deep in grease on these war machines that can't tell the mechanics what's wrong like patients can with their doctors.
The Soldiers see how the extreme climate wreaks havoc on the mechanized patients they see every day, and know they must take care of them with preventative maintenance and prompt repairs. "We maintain tactical vehicles that are designed to save lives. We take that very seriously," said Pfc. Ben Havens, wheeled vehicle mechanic. "The guys who take these vehicles outside the wire depend on them to work properly."

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ISF detain five suspected AQI cell members in Balad

BALAD, Iraq - Iraqi SF detained 5 suspected AQI cell members in Balad, approximately 79 kilometers north of Baghdad, during an op to disrupt terrorist operations, June 14.
One of the AQI suspects is said to be a key leader within the terrorist network, which provides a line of support through Balad and Dujayl. Three other suspected criminals are reportedly members of a cell conducting indirect fire attacks.
One additional suspect was detained during the op.

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Iraqi Army, U.S. Soldiers capture militant in Muthanna

BAGHDAD -  June 15, IA Soldiers with support from the 30th Inf Regt, 4th BCT, 10th Mtn Div (Lt), conducted a clearance op in the Muthanna area and captured a criminal linked to AQI.
The target of the op was a mosque security guard suspected of being involved in several IED and EFP attacks, murders and kidnappings.

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MND-B Soldiers capture suspected militant leader

BAGHDAD - June 15, Soldiers from the 30th Inf Regt, 4th BCT, 10th Mtn Div (Lt), captured the suspected criminal leader and detained 2 others during an op.
The highly sought-after criminal leader is believed to be responsible for EFP attacks and supplying EFPs
and EFP materials to Special Groups in New Baghdad and Sadr City.
"Capturing this criminal definitely makes Baghdad streets safer for civilians and SF alike," said Maj. Joey Sullinger, a spokesperson for MND-B. "This op comes on the heels of ensnaring 2 militant targets in successive days, and is indicative of the dominoes of destruction and disorder beginning to fall."

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Iraqi Army Soldiers seize munitions in Sadr City

BAGHDAD - IA Soldiers seized a munitions cache while conducting search ops in Sadr City, June 14.
The cache consisted of an 82 mm mortar base, 76 60 mm mortar rounds, 4 IED initiation devices, 3 40 mm mortar round fillings, 9 hand grenades, 40 AK-47 assault rifles, 10 sniper rifles, 14 AK-47 mags, 5 empty pistol magazines, a Motorola radio, a flare gun, 2 RPG-7s, an RPG anti-personnel round, 500
AK-47 rounds, 57 9 mm rounds, 4 grenades, 3 RPG-7 anti-tank rounds, 47 82 mm mortar rounds,
42 120 mm anti-tank rounds, 7 160 mm mortar rounds, 3 Iraqi mortar base plates, 2 120 mm round
IEDs, 2 vehicle gun mounts, 7 5.5 pound boxes of C4 explosive, 8 anti-personnel hand grenades, 8 SPG-9 mounted anti-tank guns, 75 12.7 mm round, 50 14.5 mm rounds, 5 sets of body armor and 17 60 mm mortar primers.
June 15, IA Soldiers found weapons caches consisting of 4 RPG launchers, 550 rounds of ammo, 5 RPGs, an IED, 2 mortar tubes, and a mortar mount, and a home-made vehicle turret.

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ISF graduate from National Police Warrior Leader Course

BAGHDAD - Loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity and personal courage are the values instilled into the U.S. Army's NCO corps during their NCO education system courses.
The Warrior Leader Course is the first in a series of five to train the NCOs and is designed for Soldiers in the ranks of specialist, corporal and sergeant.
The Iraqi SF adopted the U.S. Army format to train its junior leaders. These values were taught to the students at the 5th Bde, 2nd Iraqi NP Div's Warrior Leader Course, conducted in June.  
The info the graduates received at the course was leadership training covering values and ethics, flex firing techniques, close quarter combat techniques, reporting, role of an NCO, first-aid, weapons and vehicle maintenance, physical training, conducting after action reviews and check point ops.

Command Sgt. Maj. Michael Bobb, senior enlisted advisor, 1st BCT, 4th ID, presents an Iraqi NP with a Brigade. coin.  These 3 INPs were the top graduates out of 24 from the Warrior Leader Course conducted by the 5th Bde., 2nd NP Div., at JSS Saydiyah, June 12. 

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Gen. Petraeus visits Hawijah on Army's 233rd birthday

Gen. David Petraeus, comm. gen., MNF - Iraq, watches as Iraq scores a goal during a televised soccer match in a shop in downtown Hawijah, June 14. Petraeus visited the area during the Army's 233rd birthday and congratulated the Soldiers there for their hard work in the region.  Northeastern Iraq has seen a 90% decrease in violence over the past year.

Gen. David Petraeus walks through a market in downtown Hawijah with provincial and SF leaders as part of a battlefield circulation of northern Iraq.

Gen. David Petraeus speaks to a shop owner selling wedding dresses during his visit.

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INPs, MND-B Soldiers confiscate weapons caches throughout Baghdad

BAGHDAD -  June14, Soldiers with the 2nd BCT, 101st Abn Div (AASLT), found 4 buried IEDs at approx. 7 a.m. in the Kadamiya district of Baghdad.
At approx. 7:30 a.m., in the West Rashid district of Baghdad, Soldiers with the 1st BCT, 4th ID seized 3 RPGs and 30 pounds of homemade explosive.
IP seized 27 AK-47's, 3 assault rifles, a Mauser rifle and a 60 mm tube with bipod north of Baghdad.
In the New Baghdad district of Baghdad, at approx. 11 a.m., Soldiers with the 4th Bde, 10th Mtn Div, found a weapons cache consisting of 8 AK-47 mags, an AK-47, a backup battery system, a RPG round, a grenade, an 82 mm mortar (encased in concrete) and body armor.

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Dear Interested Readers,
The big stories of the day are the huge weapons and munitions caches that were seized.   Criminals and terrorists, including a high ranking criminal leader of 2000, are detained and the streets made safer.
Joanna
_________________________________________________

Multi-National Corps - Iraq
Public Affairs Office, Camp Victory
APO AE 09342

June 15, 2008

Iraqi Army, MND-B seize four caches throughout Baghdad

BAGHDAD - IA seized a huge weapons cache in West Rashid and, along with MND - Baghdad Soldiers seized 3 additional weapons and munitions caches throughout Baghdad, June 14.
IA soldiers discovered a huge cache in West Rashid, containing 90 122mm Soviet rockets, 4 81mm Iranian mortars, 2 60mm Iranian mortars, an RPG-22 launcher, 13 improvised claymores, 8 40mm Bulgarian grenades, 3 60mm Yugoslav mortars, 16 rolls of detonation cord, 11 half-pound blocks of TNT, 32 blocks of Iranian C-4 explosive, 5 12.5-inch EFP bodies, 5 complete EFP IEDs, 87 11-inch EFP bodies, a 7-inch EFP body,
74 5-inch EFP bodies, a 4-inch EFP body, 39 3.5-inch EFP bodies, an UAV, 6 electronic timers, 2 passive infrared switches, 500 pounds of ball bearings, 100 toggle switches, 88 Bulgarian fuses, 9 12-volt batteries, 10 camera flashes, 8 digital timers with magnets, 200 CDs, 100 flyers, 2 mortar aiming stakes, 12 digital timers, and an odometer, 14 AK-47 assault rifles, a Siminov sniper rifle, and a heavy machine gun, 15 80mm mortar rounds and 2 105mm mortar rounds. The ordnance was of Soviet origin and in serviceable condition.
The SoI turned in a complete 82mm mortar system in West Rashid to the1st BCT, 4th ID.

IA soldiers discovered a huge cache at a nearby feed warehouse.

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Iraqi Army seizes large cache of rockets

BAGHDAD - IA soldiers discovered a large weapons cache in the Rashid district of
Baghdad, June 15, consisting of 90 122 mm rockets with fuses, more than 10 claymores, components to make several hundred EFPs, more than 20 blocks of C-4 explosives, and more than 10 sticks of TNT. 

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Iraqi SWAT teams capture 3 suspected terrorists

BAGHDAD - June 13, in an op, Mosul SWAT captured 2 suspected terrorists connected to ISI, a front org. for AQI, reportedly responsible for assassinations, kidnappings and other terrorist activities.  Intel reports indicate both suspects worked for an ISI cell leader, who was detained a week ago, carrying out assassinations and kidnappings. 
One of the men is said to be known as a ruthless murderer who killed innocent civilians to instill fear within the local population.  He is reported to have recently kidnapped IP recruits and killed them to intimidate the local populace from working with the IP.
Another suspected terrorist was detained during the op.

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IPs, MND-B Soldiers seizes cache

1st Lt. Kevin Smith, 2nd Plt Leader with the 2nd BCT, 101st Abn Div., passes 37 mm high-explosive anti-aircraft munitions found in the Tigris River up a 70-foot embankment for proper disposal, June 3, in the Karkh neighborhood of Baghdad. Five local citizens fished 340 rounds from the bottom of the river in approx. 35 mins.

Spc. Dallas Sampey, a combat medic with the 2nd BCT, 101st Abn Div, bandages a laceration on the foot of an Iraqi citizen, June 3, in the Karkh community of Baghdad.

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Iraqi soldiers capture large explosives cache

TIKRIT - Iraqi soldiers discovered a large explosives caches after an intel-driven raid, June 14, on the western side of Mosul, consisting of almost 70 80 mm mortar rounds, almost 40 other mortar rounds, more than 70 RPGs, almost 10 RPG launchers, a 60 mm mortar tube with stand and various other munitions.

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MND-B Soldiers detain suspected criminal

BAGHDAD -  June 13 in Baghdad's Rashid District, Soldiers with the 1st BCT, 4th ID, detained the suspect at approx. 6:30 a.m. during an intel-driven raid in the Risalah neighborhood.
The patrol returned to a nearby CF base to process the detainee.
The suspect was allegedly responsible for weapons smuggling, rocket and roadside bomb attacks against CF, and murdering innocent Iraqi citizens.

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MND-B Soldiers detain suspected criminal leader

BAGHDAD - Soldiers attached to 4th BCT, 10th Mtn Div (Lt), detained a suspected criminal leader in the Karadah security district of eastern Baghdad, June 13.
Soldiers from 66th AR detained the suspected criminal while conducting ops specifically targeting him in Sumer al-Ghadier. The criminal was highly sought after and suspected of leading more than 2,000 Special Group militants.
The GoI wanted this criminal to face justice for committing crimes against the people of Iraq, said Maj. Joey Sullinger, spokesperson for 4th BCT, 10th Mtn. Div. The suspect is believed to be a high-ranking member of an outlaw org. directly responsible for roadside bombs, murders, kidnapping innocent Iraqis and rocket and mortar attacks.

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ISF, MND-B Soldiers uncover weapons in Baghdad

BAGHDAD - Iraqi SF and MND - Baghdad Soldiers seized a number of weapons in Baghdad, June 13.
At approx. 11:40 a.m. in the Risalah area of Rashid, Iraqi NP seized 2 RPGs, 2 RPG fuses, an RPG launcher and an unknown machine gun.
IA soldiers took possession of an IED, grenades and C4 explosives in Sadr City.
Soldiers from 4th BCT, 10th Mtn Div, found an EFP, 20 120 mm mortar rounds, 11  82 mm mortar rounds, 5 155mm mortar rounds, 4 82 mm high-explosive rounds, a 130 mm mortar round, an 82mm illumination round and an RPG in the Uldir area of New Baghdad.
Iraqi NPs and Soldiers from 66th AR, attached to 4th BCT, 10th Mtn. Div., seized 93 AK-47s and 4 pistols while conducting a joint patrol, in the al-Ghadier area of New Baghdad.
In the Bayaa area of Rashid, NPs seized 3 IEDs, 23 RPGs and an RPG launcher.

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Dear Interested Readers,
TF Summit soldiers lose soccer game, but gain friendships.  Iraqi NP adopts code of ethic, as progress continues.  A suspected Special Groups leader captured, as well as an AQI cell leader.  Huge weapons caches continue to be seized.
Joanna
_________________________________________

Multi-National Corps - Iraq
Public Affairs Office, Camp Victory
APO AE 09342

June 15, 2008

IA, MND-B Soldiers seize large weapons cache in Khadamiya

IA soldiers  uncovered a large weapons cache in the Khadamiya district of Baghdad, June 14. The cache consisted of body armor, IEDs, EFPs, RPGs, C-4 explosives, mortar rounds, mortar tubes, mortar bipods, anti-personnel mines, homemade explosives, shocks, fuses, various wires and detonation cord.

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TF Summit Soldiers lose soccer game to Sons of Iraq's Riyadh team

By Staff Sgt. Margaret C. Nelson

HAWIJAH -  In this military op, no body-armor was necessary and no shots were fired. The goal was friendship - and, scoring a few, for the Soldiers of 1st Bn, 87th Inf Regt, in a game of soccer against a team of SoI members in Riyadh.
This was the second game in a 5-game series for Task Force Summit Soldiers in an attempt to show the populace of the Hawijah district, "the human side of the U.S. Soldier, the non-combatant," said Lt. Col. Christopher Vanek, the commander of the 1st Bn.  Although their attempts were valiant and a solitary goal was scored, the Iraqi team showed the CF team that soccer is their national sport, and they dominated throughout the 4-1 victory.
The 1st Bn cmdrs' aspiration for the non-lethal approach to his battle space is convincing, when Ali, 14, visiting his uncle from Zaab, a western sub district of Hawijah, said he liked the game because this was the first time he had seen American Soldiers out of uniform on a soccer field trying to play soccer with Iraqis. "I've never spoken to a U.S. Soldier before, and now I see them playing soccer with us. They are trying to get to know us.  I think that is good and they are very nice," he said.  More than 500 locals attended the event.
The Hawijah district has seen a 90% decrease in violent attacks against its populace, SF and the CF since December.  Although violence has struck home with the loss of 3 1st Bn Soldiers here in recent weeks, efforts such as these continue.  "I was torn," Vanek said about the decision to continue with the match. "Are we sending the wrong message?"  But, his concerns were quelled by the Soldiers themselves. "They decided that the best way to honor the memory of our fallen is to show the enemy that our mission continues. They cannot stop our efforts and those of the citizens of this region to establish stability and peace in this region," Vanek said.
"We did not play so much soccer because it was dangerous and we were afraid," said Mohammad, a 24-year-old Riyadh SoI member pulling security at the event said. "The terrorists blew our youth center up so that we could not meet as a community there, and killed many of our people.  The Americans want to bring us together, help us.  And they have brought peace and security back to our city," Mohammad said.
"I'm convinced after seeing the changes here since my last visit that we are accomplishing our mission and bringing a positive change to this area,"  said Spc. Brian Smith.

Spc. Brian Smith, 1st Bn,  scores the solitary goal for his team.

Lt. Col. Christopher Vanek gives the game ball to the team captain of the Riyadh SoI soccer team.

Soldiers of 1st Bn entertain the winning SoI soccer team of Riyadh with a dance following their 4-1 defeat.

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Locals lead Iraqi, Coalition forces to sizeable weapons caches near Balad

TIKRIT- Local citizens' tips led Iraqi and CF to sizeable weapons caches over the last 2 weeks in and around the city of Balad. 
Balad citizens informed Soldiers of the 1st Bn, 32nd Cal Regt, 1st BCT, 101st Abn Div (AASLT) of caches consisting of 16 phone bases, 12 RPG rounds, 5 fuses, 2 anti-tank grenades, 4 ejector motors for RPGs, 2 sniper rifles, a light machine gun, a night sight and a day sight for mortars, 10,000 light machine gun and AK-47 rounds of ammo, 12 pounds of propellant, 4 120 mm HE mortar rounds, a 122 mm projectile and a 100 mm projectile.

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IA, MND-B Soldiers seize large weapons cache in Khadamiya

BAGHDAD - IA soldiers uncovered a large weapons cache in the Khadamiya district of Baghdad, June 13,
consisting of 30 sets of body armor, 10 IEDs, 9 EFPs, 4 107 mm rockets, 10 RPGs, 28 sticks of C4 explosives, 18 120 mm mortar rounds, 20 82 mm mortar rounds, 33 81 mm mortar rounds, 8 60 mm mortar rounds,  a 120 mm mortar tube, 3 81 mm mortar tubes, a 60 mm mortar tube, a 60 mm mortar bipod, 2 81 mm mortar bipods, a 120 mm mortar bipod, an 81 mm mortar base plate, a 120 mm mortar base plate, 7 anti-personnel mines, 40 pounds of homemade explosives, liquid accelerant, shocks, fuses, various wires and detonation cord.

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Iraqi National Police adopts Code of Ethic

Lt. Col. Sam Davis, HQ NP Transition Team, and
Brig. Gen. Najiem Al Khazaaly, Iraqi NP

BAGHDAD - In the ancient land of Mesopotamia, the earliest code of ethics became known as the Code of Hammurabi. Some 4,000 years later, in the same "Mesopotamia" region, Staff Maj. Gen. Al Awadi, cmdr. of the Iraqi NP, in his continuing efforts to transform the NP into the most professional paramilitary police force in the Middle East, introduced another code of ethics at a press conference June 8.
The newly adopted code is patterned after the Law Enforcement Code of Ethics of the Int'l. Assoc. of Chiefs of Police.
The basis of the code states that each police officer is to be committed to protecting the people of Iraq, safeguarding lives and property, respecting the laws and public service.  It further outlines the individual officer's responsibility to be an example, obey and enforce all laws, maintain confidentiality, never act officiously or accept gratuities and recognize the position of a police officer as a "symbol of public trust".
"We have had 14 successful combat ops in the last 6 months that were critical to the security of Iraq, from Diwaniyah and the first Basra contingency last fall to the significant ops in Baghdad, " said Brig. Gen. Jim Yarbrough, Iraq Assistance Group comm. gen., who was also on hand to discuss the NP progress.
"This is the first time the GoI has deployed forces in control of these strategic cities, Mosul, Baghdad and Sadr City. " Yarbrough also highlighted the NP's presence in Samarra and Karbala as other examples of NP's increasing effectiveness.

Maj. Gen. Al Awadi and Brig. Gen. Jim Yarbrough, discuss recent NP ops during a press conference announcing the adoption of the Iraqi National Police Code of Ethics.

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SoI tip leads Soldiers to mortar cache in Rusafa

BAGHDAD - A SoI tip led Soldiers from 4th BCT, 10th Mtn Div,to a cache in the Rusafa security district of
eastern Baghdad,June 13.
Soldiers from 3rd Sqdrn, 89th Cav Regt, traveled to the suspected cache site in the Sheikh Umar area of northern Rusafa where they found a cache containing 58 60mm mortar rounds.

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IA, MND-B Soldiers seize weapons in Baghdad

BAGHDAD - IA and MND - Baghdad Soldiers seized numerous weapons throughout Baghdad, June13.
IA soldiers discovered a weapons cache in the Karkh district of Baghdad at approx. 6 a.m. consisting of 470 AK-47s, 25 rifles, 4 9 mm pistols, an 8 mm pistol, 2 radios and a motorcycle.
Soldiers with the 4th BCT, 10th Mtn Div, acted on a tip from a SoI member and seized 58 60 mm mortars in the Rusafa district of Baghdad.

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Salah ad-Din province Emergency Services Unit captures AQI leader

BALAD - A Salah ad-Din province Emergency Services Unit captured a suspected leader of AQI in Bayji, approx. 40 km northwest of Tikrit, June 12.
The ESU conducted an op to capture the leader who reportedly provides monetary support to AQI activities through criminal activities. One additional suspect was detained in the op.

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Iraqi Special Operations Forces capture mid-level Special Groups criminal cell leader

BALAD -  June 12, the ISOF conducted an op to capture the reported leader of 250 criminal members suspected of IED attacks against Iraqi and CF. They are also accused of kidnapping and killing 19 Iraqi citizens, including 3 individuals who worked on a U.S. base.
During the op, ISOF also found and detained a man wanted on a Ministry of Justice warrant.

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Iraqi Special Operations Forces capture suspected AQI cell leader

BALAD - In Mosul, June 11, the ISOF conducted an op to apprehend the suspected AQI cell leader reportedly responsible for IEDs and VBIED attacks against Iraqi and CF.  He is also believed to be responsible for kidnapping and murder in the area.

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ISOF capture suspected Special Groups criminal leader in Baghdad

BAGHDAD -  June 12, the ISOF conducted an op to capture the suspected criminal allegedly responsible for kidnapping, interrogating, torturing and murdering Iraqi citizens.  He is also suspected of conducting fake IP checkpoints and ordering IED attacks against CF. 
One additional suspect was detained during the op. 

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Dear Interested Readers,
A high level ISI terrorist captured in Baghdad.  Residents of Basra receiving medical care, as a result of improved security.  The Seattle Supersonics Dance Team entertain the troops, and get the real story of success in Iraq.  The emergence of the Neighborhood Guard in Sadr City helps improve security.  Weapons caches seized throughout Baghdad, and more criminals detained or killed.
Joanna
______________________________________

Multi-National Corps - Iraq
Public Affairs Office, Camp Victory
APO AE 09342

June 14, 2008

Baghdad Emergency Response Unit detain suspected terrorist

BAGHDAD - A Baghdad ERU detained a suspected "Islamic State of Iraq" terrorist working within the Nationality Directorate in Baghdad, for murder and kidnapping, June 12. The ISI is a front for AQI.
The Ministry of Interior issued a warrant for the chief of the Nationality Directorate facility, who is believed to have killed a man in Baghdad.  According to the warrant, he is said to be a leader within the foreign-led terrorist group who has also participated in assassinations and kidnappings.  He is also said to have been an officer of the former regime under Saddam Hussein.
He and other members of the org. are reportedly responsible for launching mortars and RPGs from the
al-Muthana bridge area toward al-Rashida.
This detention is part of an ongoing effort by the GoI to eradicate terrorists within its infrastructure and other
individuals, groups or organizations intent on impeding the stability and security of the country. 

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Residents of Basra receive medical care, health education

BASRA - June 12, more than 1,000 patients came to both locations seeking attention from the clinic, where doctors from the National Iraqi Assistance Centre provided medical aid and health education on preventative health an child health care. .
The medical staff also brought several boxes of medication and other supplies for the clinic.
Iraqi soldiers  provided security for the duration of the operation. 
The Iraqi 51st Bde is currently mentored by 2 Royal Anglian as its MiTT. The provision of such medical care for inhabitants at a local level is part of the ongoing success borne of the improved security situation in the region.

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 ISF, MND-B Soldiers seize weapons in Baghdad

BAGHDAD - Iraqi SF and MND - Baghdad Soldiers seized a number of weapons in Baghdad, June 12.
IA soldiers seized 3 82mm mortar rounds, 2 130mm mortar rounds, a 120mm rocket, a 155mm mortar round, a 60mm mortar round, 28 AK-47s, three sniper rifles, 13 rocket fuses, 100 main gun rounds, 50 PKC rounds, 150 9mm rounds, a roll of wire, 4 RPG launchers, 3 RPGs, , a 155mm artillery round, a 73mm artillery round, a container of TNT, a Motorola radio and charger, 3 kilograms of unknown explosives, 3 grenade bodies, and 3 hand grenades, in Sadr City.
At the same time in the Shamasiya area of Adhamiyah, Soldiers from the 3rd BCT, 4th ID, seized a 60mm
mortar round, 3 hand grenades and 3 unknown fuses.
Soldiers from the 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID, acted on a tip from a local Iraqi and found 5 130mm mortar
rounds, a 107mm mortar round, a 100mm mortar round and a .50-caliber machine gun northwest of Baghdad.

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NBA dance team entertains, shows appreciation for troops

TIKRIT - The Seattle SuperSonics Dance Team visited troops deployed to COB Speicher, located in Tikrit,
June 11.
The dance team wanted to show their appreciation for the military and decided to partake in their own deployment experiences.  "My passion is dancing and performing," said Pilita, a first-year dance team member. "This is the least I could do for the Soldiers.  It's a privilege to be here.  I've learned a lot."
"Every day, this place and the Soldiers, everyone, has exceeded the expectations that I had," explained Jillian, one of the Sonics dancers. "I have learned so much [more] by talking with a Soldier for one minute than when I listened to news stations or radio stations."
"This is fun," said Airman 1st Class Alana Fowler, a security forces patrol officer, "You sort of wake up in the same place, doing the same thing every day.  It's good to see something besides everyone in uniforms, military uniforms. It's different, and it breaks up the daily routine."
Many dance team members agreed this experience taught them many things about life in general and about why there is still a military presence in Iraq.  "Everything that we see in the US and everything we learn is completely opposite," said Sabrina, the dance team coach.  "It's the stories that we see through the eyes of the Soldiers.  Seeing how things are done from day to day, to seeing how they are actually working with the country to build it up and working with their Soldiers.  We never hear those things and so, for us, it's just been a really growing experience.  We don't want to forget any moment, it's overwhelming really.  I feel like a new person."

Capt. Jason Woodward, a co. cmdr. with 1-1 Attack Recon Bn, tells the Sonic Dance Team Members about his helicopter.

 

Sgt. 1st Class James Artz, the garrison communication systems support sgt., 191st Combat Sustainment Support Bn, and Capt. Ira Pray, the Morale, Welfare, and Recreation officer, 191st CSSB, show the dance team members how to operate a 9mm handgun safely on the range before letting them practice shooting at targets.

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Raider Soldiers detain three suspected criminals

BAGHDAD -  In Baghdad's Rashid District, June 12, at approx. 5 a.m., Soldiers from the 64th Armor Regt,
attached to the 1st BCT, 4th ID, detained 2 Special Groups criminals in the Saydiyah neighborhood, and at approx. 6:30 a.m., detained a Special Groups criminal in the Risalah neighborhood. 
The suspects are connected to senseless and indiscriminate acts of violence, such as roadside bomb attacks that have targeted innocent Iraqi civilians and CF.

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Neighborhood Guard helps protect in Sadr City

The first recruits of the Neighborhood Guard in the Sadr City district of Baghdad secure the streets June 10, to protect their homes and families from a possible resurgence of Special Groups criminals that potentially threaten security.  The Neighborhood Guard is a MND - Baghdad program in partnership with the IA. It is modeled after the successful SoI to train Iraqis to protect the neighborhoods where they live and work.

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IA, MND-B Soldiers seize caches throughout Baghdad

BAGHDAD - IA and MND - Baghdad Soldiers uncovered several caches throughout Baghdad, June 12.
Iraqi Soldiers seized a weapons cache in the Kadhamiyah district of Baghdad at approx. 6 a.m., containing 2 IEDs, 2 RPG launchers, 3 rockets, 2 AK-47s, mortar fuses and detonation wire.
An hour later, Iraqi soldiers discovered a weapons cache in the Sadr City district of Baghdad consisting of 8 RPGs for vehicle mounting, 2 RPG launchers, 3 rockets of various types, 5 IEDs, a 155 mm round, a 130 mm round, 2 120 mm rounds, approx. one pound of C4 explosive, 100 7.62 mm rounds; 50 sniper rounds, a grenade and a rifle, 6 RPGs, 60 mm mortar fuses, 16 60 mm mortar charges, an SPG-9 scope, 2 14.5 mm ammo boxes, 50 PKC machine gun rounds and wire.
MND-B Soldiers with the 1st BCT, 4th ID, discovered a weapons cache in the East Rashid district of Baghdad at approx. 7:30 a.m. consisting of 9 grenades; 400 7.62 mm rounds; detonation wire, a shock tube, 2 RPG boosters, 2 RPG warheads and a PKC machine gun.

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Sons of Iraq repel second attack in Salah ad-Din province

TIKRIT - The homes of several SoI members were attacked by al-Qaeda fighters, near the town of Ishaki in the Salah ad-Din province, June 11.
The SOI members successfully defended their homes in the ensuing firefight, which left 4 enemy fighters dead and 3 SOI injured.  Three suicide vests and a vehicle laden with explosives were found on the scene and later destroyed by EOD technicians.
On May 29, SoI near Owja killed 9 enemy fighters who attempted to overrun an SOI checkpoint by detonating a suicide vest and attacking with small arms fire. 
"AQI are becoming more and more desperate in their attempts to discourage a burgeoning SoI movement here in the Salah ad-Din province," said Lt. Col. Thomas Hauerwas, a spokesman for the 1st BCT, 101st Abn Div. "The willingness of the Sons of Iraq to fight the enemy toe to toe, demonstrates their resolve to expel AQI from this province."

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Dear Interested Readers,
Iraqi Soldiers continue to show their professionalism by capturing criminals and terrorists, and working with the Iraqi people to uncover weapons and ammo caches.  A compassionate medic keeps watch over an injured Iraqi boy, while a soldier makes friends with young Iraqis.
Joanna
________________________________

 

Multi-National Corps - Iraq
Public Affairs Office, Camp Victory
APO AE 09342

June 13, 2008

Iraqi Special Operations Forces capture suspected Special Groups criminal

BALAD - Iraqi SOF captured a suspected Special Groups criminal in the Hayyaniah district of Basra, June 11.
The ISOF conducted an op to capture the criminal who reportedly is involved in the kidnapping and killing of IA soldiers and murder of Iraqi civilians in the Basra area.

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Iraqi Army captures two suspected terrorists in Mosul

BALAD - IA captured 2 suspected members of AQI in Mosul, June 11.
The IA conducted an op to capture suspected terrorists who are allegedly responsible for killing an Iraqi soldier and VBIED attacks.  Six additional suspects were detained during the op.

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Baquba SWAT team captures three terrorists, detain four

BALAD - June 10, the ISWAT conducted an op to capture a member of AQI, suspected of housing and supplying AQI in the Aziz Ali Muhsin Village. The fighters are allegedly responsible for IED emplacement and conducting attacks against local SoI members, Iraqi and CF.  Four additional suspects were detained.
During the op, Iraqi and CF were engaged by enemy fighters.  One enemy fighter attempted to run away before turning toward Iraqi and CF and detonating his person-borne IED.  No one besides the man was killed by the blast.  Another fighter attempted to hide in a ravine and once found, threw a grenade at friendly forces.  Iraqi and CF engaged, killing the fighter.
Within hours of completing the op, Iraqi and CF were contacted by local tribal sheiks thanking them for removing terrorists from the area. 

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IA Soldiers find weapons in Sadr City

BAGHDAD - IA soldiers seized 3 weapons caches in Sadr City, June 11, consisting of 7 IEDs, 10 grenades, 19
AK-47s, three Seminov rifles, 14 RPG rockets, 4 RPG launchers, an SPG-9 rocket, 2 RPKs, a Delta machine gun, 3 rifles and 200 AK-47 rounds.

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NPs, local residents, MND-B Soldiers continue to rid Baghdad of weapons

BAGHDAD -  June 11, a local Iraqi resident turned in 30 57 mm anti-aircraft projectiles to a COP northwest of Baghdad.  Another local Iraqi resident turned in 7 155 mm high-explosive mortar rounds, a bag of unknown powder, 8 black boxes and 6 cordless telephones.
Soldiers from 3rd BCT, 4th ID seized an IED and 3 IA body armor vests in Sadr City.
Iraqi NPs found 155 mm artillery rounds, a 120 mm mortar round, and 3 60 mm mortars.
Soldiers from 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID seized 2 107 mm rockets and a RPG northwest of Baghdad.

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Sons of Iraq thwart enemy attack

TIKRIT -  June 11, in the Salah ad Din Province, an SOI element killed 4 AQI members, 3 of whom were
wearing suicide vests, after being attacked while responding to a report of civilians being attacked in their homes.
Additionally, a vehicle at the scene was wired to be a VBIED. 

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Medical Engagement Team brings care, supplies

BASRA - More than 500 patients came to the Ar Risala health clinic in the Hayyaniyah district of Basra,  where doctors from the National Iraqi Assistance Center provided medical aid and health education.
This marks the third visit to a Basra health clinic by the doctors since Op Charge of the Knights began.  Safer streets and neighborhoods make it possible for the NIAC to send doctors and nurses into the city's clinics to engage the local population.
The medical staff brought along several boxes of medication and other supplies for the clinic.  In addition to medical aid, the staff provided preventive health and child health care education.

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Strykehorse medic makes house call


Sgt. Brent Townsend asks the father and sister to assist him while he disinfects the boy's wounds in Al Sabyat, northwest of Baghdad, June 7. The boy was hit by a speeding vehicle, and requires a feeding tube. Townsend is a medic for Headhunter Troop, 2nd Sqdrn, 14th Cav Regt "Strykehorse", 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID.

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Hitch a Ride

An Army Soldier gets a lift from an Iraqi boy and his mule on Route Douglas in the Jamilla Market in the Sadr City district of Baghdad, June 9.

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Dear Interested Readers,
There are a variety of interesting stories, such as the success of reconciling insurgents back into their communities; Special Weapons Exploitation Team training Iraqis for the future of keeping Iraq safe.  Confidence in the IA and the CF is encouraging Iraqi citizens to continue turning in huge weapons and munition caches, as well as terrorists.
Joanna
_____________________________________________

Multi-National Corps - Iraq
Public Affairs Office, Camp Victory
APO AE 09342

June 12, 2008

Operation Fires Festung

Capt. Christopher Ellis, from the 2nd Stryker Cav Regt watches an Iraqi girl wait for lunch with her father, June 2. Ellis was on patrol in support of Op Fires Festung, which was launched to rid the influence of AQI in the towns of Qubbah and Mukhisa in the Diyala province of Iraq.

Soldiers from the 2nd Stryker Cav Regt, eat lunch with Iraqis.

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More than 500 fighters reconcile in Balad

BALAD - Since May 22, a total of 506 insurgents in the Balad area have reconciled with the GoI, choosing a different path for their lives.
Op Balad Musalahah is a combined effort between the Qadah-level GoI, the leadership of the IP, the
4th IA Div, and the 1st Sqdrn, 32nd Cav Regt, 1st BCT, 101st Abn Div. 
The ongoing effort has encouraged tribal leaders and locals with significant influence to promote unity within the once beleaguered area. The process seeks to reintegrate those who have felt marginalized, back into the maturing governance process here, according to Lt. Col. Bob McCarthy, 1st Sqdrn, cmdr.  "Former fighters in the Balad Qadah have stepped forward to reconcile with their fellow countrymen," McCarthy said. "This is a key step in reestablishing their ties to the communities, rejoining their families in their homes and becoming active participants in Iraq's future."  
Resolving to enter into a cease-fire agreement for the good of the Qadah and the province, former fighters have led Iraqi and CF to various weapons caches scattered in the area.  Those who choose to reconcile must sign a cease-fire agreement, and if they face criminal charges, they must stand before the Iraqi court system before being fully reintegrated into civil society.
For many Iraqis, seeing that the justice system is fair and equitable is the biggest win, said Maj. Timothy Brumfield, the 1st Squadron, EO.
"The reconciliation process is a great start for those who have been reluctant to approach CF and Iraqi SF and have been increasingly isolated from Iraqi society," said Maj. Ramiro Salazar, ops officer for the 1st Sqdrn.
"The mass reconciliation here marks a turning point for the Balad area, in terms of these men's realization that it is impossible to further their cause by means of violence.  Instead, as we approach possible elections in the fall, they are choosing, as one reconciliation leader called, 'the war of the purple fingers' by embracing the power of the vote to advance their part in democracy," said Maj. Johnpaul Arnold, 1st BCT spokesman. 

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NPs, MND-B Soldiers seize weapons in Baghdad

BAGHDAD - Iraqi NP and MND - Baghdad Soldiers, with the help of local Iraqis, seized a number of weapons in Baghdad June 10.
Iraqi NP found 26 AK-47s, 2 SKS rifles, a Mauser rifle, 4 60 mm mortars, Soldiers from 2nd BCT, 101st Abn Div (AASLT), seized an EFP, an IED, 6 RPGs, 10 RPG charges and an unknown artillery round at approx. 5:30 p.m. while conducting a mounted patrol in the Shulla area of Kadhamiyah.
At approx. 10:10 pm. in the Jihad area of Rashid, Soldiers from 1st BCT, 4th ID, acting on a tip from a local Iraqi, found 20 60 mm mortars, 50 grenades, 50 grenade fuses, three non-electric blasting caps and 1,200 7.62 mm rounds.

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IA Soldiers round up weapons in Sadr City

BAGHDAD - IA soldiers seized 3 weapons caches in Sadr City, June 10, consisting of 12 IEDs, 5 120 mm mortar rounds, 11 60 mm mortar rounds, 14 RPGs, 3 hand grenades, a smoke grenade and 3 SPG-9 rockets, an RPG launcher, 2 Katyusha rocket bases, an AK-47, 12 loaded and 8 empty AK-47 mags, 200 loose AK-47 rounds and two loaded PKC magazines.
"Iraqi SF are performing flawlessly in Sadr City, and it is telling that the residents of the area are coming forward and pointing out many of these weapons cache sites to the ISF," said Lt. Col. Neil Harper, MNC-I spokesman.

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Iraqi Special Operations Forces detain 4 suspected terrorists

BALAD -  June 9, the ISOF conducted an op to capture the 4 suspected members of an AQI cell. The detained men are reported to harbor insurgents and make IEDs. Two additional suspects were detained during the op.

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ISF, MND-B Soldiers seize weapons throughout Baghdad

BAGHDAD - At approx. midnight, June 9, IA soldiers discovered a cache in the Kadamiya district of Baghdad based off the tip of an area citizen. The cache consisted of a light anti-armor weapon rocket, communication devices, 2 sets of body armor, 4 PKC barrels, communication wire, a RPG anti-personnel warhead, small-arms ammo, 5 boxes of 5.56 mm rounds and various grenades.  They also confiscated 3 vehicles and a moped.  Extra fuel tanks had been welded into the beds of 2 of the trucks they confiscated.   IA soldiers seized 12 AK-47s in the Sadr City district of Baghdad.
Iraqi NP and  Soldiers with the 8th Bde, 2nd Div NP Transition Team found 2 IEDs in the New Baghdad district of Baghdad at approximately 6:30 a.m., June 10. One of the IEDs consisted of a 130 mm artillery round, and the other, a 107 mm artillery round. The team also seized a large number of weapons during their morning mission, including 62 AK-47s, 6 sniper rifles, 4 9 mm pistols, 12 full AK-47 magazines, 4 full 9 mm magazines and a machete.
Soldiers with the 1st BCT, 4th ID, discovered a weapons cache at approx. 9 a.m. The munitions included a 60 mm mortar system, a 107 mm rocket, 2 blocks of C4 explosive, 12 sticks of the plastic explosive PE-4, 5 RPGs, detonation cord and blasting caps.
An Iraqi citizen turned over 2 120 high-explosive mortar rounds, 2 HE pineapple grenades and a possible EFP tube to soldiers with the 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID, at a nearby camp.
Soldiers with the 2nd SBCT, 25th ID, found a weapons cache northwest of Baghdad, consisting of 20 7.62 mm sniper rounds; a camouflage net, magazines for 7.62 mm rounds, a sight for an RPG, a set of bipod legs and a decoy RPG.
"Throughout the city, Baghdad residents are coming forward in increasing numbers, providing tips and info on weapons and munitions caches and extremist activity," said Lt. Col. Steve Stover, spokesman for MND-B and 4th ID.

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Strykehorse, IA assess checkpoints

Sgt. Nicolas Lemay, gets a thumbs up from an IP officer while on a joint security patrol with his IA counterpart near the village of Falahat, northwest of Baghdad, May 28.  Lemay is a Scout from Comanche Troop, 2nd Sqdrn 14th Cav Regt, 2nd Stryker BCT "Warrior," 25th Inf Div.

Sgt. Maurice Massey instructs an IP officer on what areas to look at while pulling security at a checkpoint near the village of Falahat, northwest of Baghdad, May 28. Massey is a scout assigned to Comanche Troop.

Sgt. 1st Class Michael Moyer watches an IP officer check vehicles at a checkpoint.  Ensuring that the IP properly check the vehicles go through the checkpoint reduces the threat of a VBIED, weapons trafficking and insurgent movement.  Moyer is a platoon sgt in Comanche Troop.

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Special Weapons Exploitation Team trains Iraqi Army

COB ADDER - Soldiers with the 1st BCT, 82nd Abn Div's SWET are currently training IA military police on sensitive site exploitation. (Definition:  A related series of activities inside a captured sensitive site to exploit personnel documents, electronic data, and material captured at the site, while neutralizing any threat posed by the site or its contents. Also called SSE.)
"Over the past 3 weeks, we began a sensitive site exploitation training program with the IA," said Sgt. John W. Minarik, the SWET MP NCO. The training covered everything from IED detonations, to rocket attacks, to SSE. They also went through practical exercises such as how to properly gather evidence and clear a house with a bomb-maker inside.  "This training is very important for the IA. It's very important for them to eventually run military ops throughout their entire country," said Minarik.
According to the instructors, the soldiers trained were some of the best they've worked with. "They're catching on a lot better than some of the other IA units I've worked with. They really listen and they catch on pretty quickly," said Minarik. "They were self-reliant on their NCOs and their NCOs were doing well," said Minarik.

IA soldiers listen to a briefing before their SSE training at Camp Mittica, June 4.

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Following the paw prints of the Lioness

Al ASAD - Video is available of Lioness Marines conducting security measure tactics at entry control points and traffic control points to deter the use of females for terrorist acts as well as an increase in cultural sensitivities.
Footage includes female Marines from the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward) and other MNF-W units learning culturally sensitive methods for searching female Iraqis at security checkpoints including female Marines loading and firing weapons, practicing searching methods and using techniques on female civilians.

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Dear Interested Readers,
Huge amounts of weapons caches and ammo removed from streets.  Iraqis paint and beautify barriers in Sadr City.  IA Soldiers take the lead in many operations.  IP detain 3 key criminals.
Joanna
___________________________________

Multi-National Corps - Iraq
Public Affairs Office, Camp Victory
APO AE 09342

June 11, 2008

NPs, MND-B Soldiers remove weapons from Baghdad streets

BAGHDAD - Iraqi NP and MND-Baghdad Soldiers seized a number of weapons in Baghdad, June 9, including
71 AK-47s, 3 sniper rifles, a Mauser rifle,  2 155 mm artillery rounds with IED fuses, 2 122 mm artillery rounds attached to two propane tanks, four RPGs, an RPG launcher, 3 SKS rifles, 3 enfield rifles, a roll of command detonation wire,  in the Ur area of Adhamiyah.
In the Neel area of Rusafa, Soldiers from 4th BCT, 10th Mtn Div were alerted to a weapons cache turned in by several locals and SoI members from the area. The cache consisted of an IED, 80 57 mm anti-aircraft projectiles, 65 81 mm high-explosive mortar rounds, 30 120 mm illumination rounds, 12 60 mm high-explosive mortar rounds, 6 81mm illumination rounds, 6 61 mm high-explosive mortar rounds, 10 grenades, 8 RPGs, 4 RPG launchers, a 122 mm rocket, a 107 mm rocket, 5 rocket launchers, 5 107 mm rocket motors, 8 rocket motors, an anti-personnel mine, and 2 rocket motor propellant charges.
Soldiers from 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID, received a tip from a local about a substantial weapons cache northwest of Baghdad and discovered 163 60 mm mortar rounds, 84 82 mm mortar rounds, and 43 81 mm mortar rounds.
Soldiers from the same unit along with Soldiers from 1st BCT, 4th ID., on a joint dismounted patrol seized 25 60 mm mortar rounds, 19 82 mm mortar rounds, 5 RPGs, 64 sticks of TNT, a mortar tube, and several fuses at approx. 9 p.m. in the Saydiyah area of Rashid.
A SoI leader northwest of Baghdad turned in 6 RPGs, 42 RPG propellant chargers and a SKS rifle to Soldiers from 2nd SBCT, 25th ID.

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IA finds cache southeast of Hillah

FOB KALSU -  The cache contained 3 assembled EFPs, 10 unassembled EFPs, 3 RPG launchers, 10 RPGs, 127 blocks of C-4 explosives, 15 cameras, one magnetic IED and 2 landmines.
"The discovery of this cache is another example of the IA's increasing ability to gather intel, process the info and plan and execute in a timely manner," said Lt. Col. Darryl McDowell, the cmdr of 4th Bde Special Troops Bn, 3rd ID. "They take great pride in being out front and they really seem to understand their role in the success of Iraq as a whole."

IA soldiers recovered weapons cache, June 6.

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Iraqis beautify barriers in Sadr City

Iraqi contract workers paint the T-wall barriers in the Thawra 1 neighborhood of Sadr City, a district of Baghdad, June 2. The barriers were placed in the area for protection, and are now part of the revitalization project led by MND - Baghdad.

 
Sgt. Colin Lerbakken provides security while Iraqi contract workers paint.  Sgt. Lerbakken is a member of
the 3rd Plt, 191st MP Co of the North Dakota National Guard, and is currently assigned to the 3rd BCT, 4th ID.

Sgt. James Tiede provides security.

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Iraqi Army troops take lead in joint operation

Staff Sgt. Jerry Anderson of Co D, 2nd Bn, 30th Inf Regt, 4th BCT, 10th Mtn Div (Lt), directs his Soldiers during a combined search mission with IA Soldiers in Muthana, east Baghdad, June 5.

2nd Lt. James Painter looks through boxes in a warehouse.

Spc. Kevin Hall (left) and Sgt. 1st Class Sean Kirchner, conduct a search mission with IA Soldiers.

Staff Sgt. Jerry Anderson walks through the streets of Muthana.

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Gimlet leader teaches SoI weapons maintenance

Command Sgt. Maj. Peter Roethke, the senior enlisted leader of 1st Bn, 21st Inf Regt "Gimlets," 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID, teaches an Abu Ghuraib SoI member how to properly care for and clean his AK-47, May
25. Abu Ghuraib is located west of Baghdad.

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Iraqi Police find explosives, EFPs

BASRA - IP found a large cache of explosives and EFPs while acting on a tip from a phone hotline in Basra, June 9.  The house was in an affluent neighborhood in the Al Fursi district.  Police were greeted by neighbors in the street as they arrived to discover more than 650 pounds of bulk explosive, more than 330 pounds of C4, 7 large body EFPs, 15 smaller body EFPs, a reel of detonation cord, a large amount of 7.62 armor piercing ammo and a machine gun barrel. The cache was in a hole cut in the wall of a room in the back of the house.

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IPs detain 3 in Musayyib area

FOB ISKAN - IP detained 3 key criminals June 5 in the Musayyib area. These criminals are suspected of trafficking and emplacing EFPs. The detainees are also suspected of the January 2007 attack on the Provincial Joint Coordination Center.
"These detentions resulted directly from the close working relationships that we have with the IPs," said Lt. Col. Timothy Newsome, cmdr. of 4th BCT, 3rd ID.
Joint targeting between the Iraqi SF and CF Soldiers led to the detainment of the 3 individuals.

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Dear Interested Readers,
  There are a variety of interesting and positive stories showing more of the Iraqi people taking over security and infrastructure progress.  Kudos to Major Gen. Douglas Stone for initiating innovative ideas for improving the system of detaining prisoners.  New markets proposed for al-Kut, and new Baghdad Police College East breaks ground.  Weapons caches continue to be seized.
Joanna
___________________________________

Multi-National Corps - Iraq
Public Affairs Office, Camp Victory
APO AE 09342

June 10, 2008

Operation Lion's Hunt brings IA closer to autonomy

TIKRIT - Op Lion's Hunt, a joint op that began in Ninewah province June 6 between 3 IA elements was the first unilateral Iraqi-led aerial op of Op Iraqi Freedom. 
The proof-of-concept op was an unqualified success, netting 8 suspected AQI operators, and pulling the
village of Markab al Tair from the grip of the insurgency.
"The IA had a need to move a long distance in a very short amount of time," said Lt. Col Michael Tetu, the 2nd Gen. Support Aviation Bn, 1st Aviation Regt cmdr., and the air mission cmdr. "The best way for the IA to do that was not to go in by convoy, but to go in by air. In the eyes of the MiTT, who trained these guys, they were ready for the next step, and that was to go in on an air assault.
"We are almost at opposite ends of MND-N, so the distance factor had a big vote in how easy this was to coordinate.  What we wound up doing was picking a point in-between to move our aircraft and our crews up there early so we could pre-position a couple days prior," Tetu said.
Once in position, the bns still needed to train the IA on the infiltration and exfiltration sections of the mission. To make absolutely sure the IA Soldiers would be ready for the actual mission; the 2nd GSAB, 1st Aviation Regt flew to COP Nimr the day before the mission, coordinated directly with the IA, and ran rehearsals with them.
"We took the aircraft and the training opportunity to rehearse right into their camp, and we went through every opportunity to practice our contingency missions, our emergency actions," said Tetu.  The IA Soldiers practiced loading and offloading when the engines were off, and then when the blades were turning, getting the full effect of the twin-engine Chinook. 
"It was a good experience," said Sgt. Alexander S. Rolinski, 2nd GSAB,  who served as a flight engineer for the mission.  "It was rather new because normally we work together with the Americans and the IA, but considering this was all IA, it was different; a lot of diversity but I think it went well, because we got to communicate through the interpreters and work in conjunction with them, and it flowed.  We were working as a team."
"It's a huge message that's being sent to the population because their flag is coming out of our helicopters on the IA uniforms.  People who speak their language and potentially their own relatives are the ones providing their security," said Tetu.

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Operation Restore Peace VII continues to reconcile former fighters in Hawijah

HAWIJAH - The GoI and CF Soldiers continue to reconcile former fighters as the Op Restore Peace
program in the Hawijah district of the Kirkuk Province held its seventh meeting, June 1.
"The GoI is giving you an opportunity to reconcile. Take it," said Lt. Col. Christopher Vanek, 1st Bde, 10th
Mtn Div. "If you aren't here to reconcile - I'll see you again, on the battlefield."
The program locals refer to as 'Musalaha', has been instrumental along with the SoI program with the over 90% decrease in violent attacks against ISF, CF and civilians in the Hawijah district, according to Gregor.
"Your sheik, neighbor and village have spoken," Vanek said. "They want peace. You currently have a choice to find us and join that process or, we'll find you."
Additionally, the successful efforts these Soldiers and other CFs are key to the security successes in the region and the motivating factor in persuading more Iraqis in the area to "lay down their arms and join the reconciliation process," said Vanek.
In a June 4 offensive op named 'Muthana Strike' along the Tigris River Valley, west of Hawijah, info obtained from previous ops, Musalaha petitioners, and tips from local citizens, netted over 20 suspected AQI terrorists. All were members of a known network responsible for VBIED attacks and weapons smuggling effecting the Ta'Mim province and its surrounding areas in northern Iraq.
Over 200 have successfully completed the reconciliation process since Op Restore Peace began in January. Hawijah is located approximately 60 miles southwest of Kirkuk.

A 1st Bde Soldier escorts some of the 21 new petitioners June 1, at FOB McHenry, Hawijah.

Lt. Col. Uthma Ramadan, IA cmdr; Lt. Col. Christopher Vanek; Lt. Col. Yassin, Hawijah's Police Chief, field reconciliation questions from petitioners.

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Detainee operations changes command leadership

BAGHDAD - Maj. Gen. Douglas M. Stone turned over his command of Task Force 134 Detainee Ops to Rear Adm. Garland P. Wright in a ceremony conducted at the Al Faw Palace, June 6.
Gen. David H. Petraeus officiated the ceremony, thanking Stone for his contributions and forward thinking regarding detention.  "General Stone is a man of big ideas, and the assessment he conducted shortly after taking command led to the biggest of his big ideas:  the enemy was conducting an insurgency inside the wire, and we needed to conduct counterinsurgency ops inside the wire," Petraeus said.
One of Stone's most innovative programs involved assessing detainees more thoroughly upon detention by separating the moderates from the extremists, thereby eliminating the "peer pressure" within detention. 
Other initiatives implemented include a family advocacy program for visiting families, using visitations to instruct families in civics, education and cultural discussion.  He also developed training for Iraqi Correctional Officers and established the juvenile education center Dar al Hikmah, "House of Wisdom," to help juvenile detainees learn math, to read and write Arabic, and to better understand the GoI.
"Our greatest achievements in Detainee Ops are the Iraqis who leave our custody, return to their families, and prosper in Iraqi society, never again to take up arms against us or their citizenry," said Stone.  "We should be most proud of this, because it is a reflection of all we, as free people, hold dear."
Stone went on to thank the men and women in his command that transformed his ideas into reality and the Iraqi teachers and clerics, asking them to rise and be honored with applause.  "Furthermore, it has been a tremendous privilege to have worked with so many Iraqis and to have served the Iraqi people," Stone said.
"In previous years, the terrorists were successful, building schools and incubators for terrorism within detention centers," said Wright. "But honest Iraqis have now replaced those schools and provide a different, more hopeful message with more promising and longer-lasting results.  Honest Iraqis are helping their brothers fight ignorance with knowledge and overcoming ideology with reason."

Rear Adm. Garland P. Wright congratulates the outgoing cmdr., Maj. Gen. Douglas M. Stone.

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MND-B Soldiers find weapons cache

BAGHDAD - June 8, in the Rashid district of southern Baghdad, at approx. 7:30 a.m., Soldiers from the 1st BCT, 4th ID, discovered 3 60 mm mortar tubes, 2 82 mm mortar tubes, a 120 mm mortar tube; 16 82 mm mortar rounds; 15 60 mm mortar rounds, 30 pounds of plastic explosives, a bag of ammo and a ski mask.

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Civil Affairs Soldiers speak with Kut shopkeepers

A Lithuanian soldier watches the market in al-Kut, June 3, during a meeting with shopkeepers who will be displaced by the construction of new fish and meat markets there. The Iraqi and Coalition-funded project,
which has already begun, will give farmers in Wasit Province an outlet for their goods and provide jobs and better conditions for shopkeepers and workers in the markets.  Programs are being developed for the
displaced shopkeepers, meant to give them fresh employment opportunities.

Staff Sgt. David McFate, speaks with shopkeepers.

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Corp of Engineers Hands Over Two Facilities

BASRA - The Gulf Region South Corps of Engineers turned over 2 facilities to the GoI in Basra, June 8.
The Abo Al Khaseeb Votech Center and a Primary Healthcare Center in the Hai Al Muhandiseen area were handed over to their respective Ministries as they near total completion.
The Votech Center has undergone major renovations during the last 9 months as the Corps of Engineers coordinated efforts of several Iraqi construction companies to rebuild parts of the existing structure and install a new perimeter fence.  More than 600 students are already attending classes at the center and gaining valuable skills that increase their employability and boost the income for the local community.
The Healthcare Center was a complete construction project to provide services to an area that did not possess sufficient medical treatment facilities. The project began in 2006 and is being handed over to the Ministry of Health as the contractors finish the final stages of construction.

An Iraqi student at the Votech Center works on a welding project during a class June 8.

Maj. Stephan Dale from Gulf Region South Corps of Engineers talks to an Iraqi doctor during the handover of a Primary Health Clinic, June 8.

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New Baghdad Police College East construction begins

BAGHDAD - Baghdad Police College broke ground for a new campus to be known as Baghdad Police College East, June 8.
When completed next year, the new facility will have 19 buildings for training and housing IP and will accommodate 2,000 recruits and 200 instructor staff.  There will be 9 student barracks, 4 instructor barracks, a laundry, a dining facility, 2 large classroom buildings, a multi-purpose facility and an administration building.  The new BPC East campus will also have a large parade field and soccer field.
"This represents a giant leap forward for the IP," said U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Michael Jones, dir. gen. of the
Directorate of Interior Affairs that provides assistance in training the IP. "The picture we see here is that this new facility will train many Shurta [policemen] in the months to come, who in turn will join other courageous policemen in Iraq making a difference for the people of Iraq. This facility will help make the IP better." Jones also praised Iraqi Police Maj. Gen. Dr. Jassin for having the vision to accelerate the training for the IP.
"The IP attending the new training facility here will be able to share their knowledge with other IPs in order to secure Iraq," said Jassin.  He also said there are 17 new police training centers under construction or renovation.
Over the next year, the goal is to increase Shurta training by adding 9,100 seats a year to IP training academies.  The Ministry of Interior has budgeted approximately $160 million this year for this major expansion that will build many new facilities around the country.
The Baghdad Police College also has a High Institute for advanced training courses, the police qualification center, the commissioner course for enlisted policemen, a K-9 school for dog handlers, an Ethics Center and Administration Center.

Maj. Gen. Dr. Jassim, U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Jones, Maj. Gen. Dean Juma'a and senior police officers particiapte in the groundbreaking ceremony.

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Dear Interested Readers,
The 501st MP Co., continues to make strides in the Tikrit area.  Firefighters on FOB Warrior hold fire warden workshops.  A suspected terrorist of an IED cell captured, and huge weapons and munition caches seized with the help of Iraqi citizens.
Joanna
______________________________________

Multi-National Corps - Iraq
Public Affairs Office, Camp Victory
APO AE 09342

June 9, 2008

ISF, MND-B Soldiers detain three, seize weapons

BAGHDAD - The IA and NP turned in weapons in separate incidents throughout Baghdad, while MND -
Baghdad Soldiers detained suspected criminals, June 7.
Soldiers from 1st BCT, 4th Inf Div detained 3 individuals.  A tip from a civilian identified the 3 as suspected criminals and accomplices to IED attacks against CF. 

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 MPs assists IPs with traffic control points

TIKRIT - The humvee comes to a screeching halt. The Soldiers inside the vehicle are shaken, but they do not have time to think.  All 4 doors open simultaneously and the Soldiers jump out.  Before the dust settles and anyone can react, the Soldiers of the 501st MP Co will have a flash traffic control point in place.
The 501st MP Co., and IP recently conducted a TCP together in the Tikrit area.  A TCP is a spontaneous search of vehicles to surprise the criminal element and catch them off guard. They also help to ensure the security of neighborhoods.
The element of surprise is essential when setting up TCPs, said Spc. Ryan Lee, a MP with the 501st.  "Nobody knows we are going to be here," said Spc. Robert Oberhofer, MP  "It's random.  We're not setting a pattern; we don't usually do this, so they don't have time to go a different route or change their tactics."
The IPs usually take the lead on searching vehicles, while the CF supervise and make sure everything goes smoothly.
"We go out and interact with the people," said Oberhofer. "We help the kids a lot. We let the people know we're not just machines; we actually care.  "Not everyone in Iraq is an insurgent," said Oberhofer. "Right now, this is a [hostile environment], but we are training the IP to maintain their own security as police officers.  Just like anywhere in the world, you're going to have people who are bad or have different beliefs," explained Oberhofer. "I believe here, there are a lot of good people.  We're just trying to let them know we're not just here to hurt them, we're just trying to help their community."

Staff Sgt. Matthew T. Misiano, a plt sgt gives out candy, shoes and lotion to the Iraqi children, June 5.

Staff Sgt. Misiano gives a pair of shoes away.

Spc. Ryan Lee poses with an Iraqi child.

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Firefighters hold fire warden class at FOB Warhorse

Mike Galimberti, a firefighter with Wackenhut Services, Inc., stands beside a burn pit, as Soldiers going through a fire warden workshop on FOB Warhorse learn basic firefighting techniques such as how to put out fires using fire extinguishers, June 1. The class occurs twice a week. 

Payton Frew, a firefighter with Wackenhut, shows a Soldier going through the fire warden workshop how to put out a fire.  Payton offers advice and experience to the Soldiers going through the class in order to prepare them to go back to their units and help prevent fires.

 Firefighter Dan Gilespie teaches a fire warden workshop. The class is designed to certify Soldiers as fire wardens and liaisons between their unit and the FOB fire department.

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Locals lead ISF to cache near Samarra

TIKRIT - A local citizen directed IA and NP officers to a weapons cache located in the side of a berm near a suspected AQI safe house in Mukayshifah, just north of Samarra, June 6.
The find is the latest in a series of cache discoveries in the greater Samarra area over the past 40 days. 
ISF and CF located 19 weapons caches during the first 16 days in May, and just a few days prior, a massive cache consisting of more than 300 rockets in a 40 ft. well in the al-Jazeera Desert west of the city.
"The close cooperation of the local citizens leading Coalition and Iraqi SF to cache sites cannot be overstated," said Lt. Col. Thomas Hauerwas, EO for the 1st BCT, 101st Abn Div. "The only way we locate these caches is from the info received from the people in the area."

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IA soldiers continue seizing caches in Sadr City

BAGHDAD - IA soldiers uncovered 5 weapons caches in Sadr City, Baghdad, June 7.
The IA and  along with Soldiers serving with the 2nd BCT, 101st Abn Div (AASLT), seized 5 82 mm mortar rounds in the Kadhamiyah district of Baghdad.
After receiving a tip from an Iraqi citizen, Soldiers with the 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th Inf Div, discovered 3 homemade explosive devices with washing machine timers northwest of Baghdad.

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Haditha Special Weapons and Tactics team captures suspected terrorist

BAGHDAD - Haditha SWAT team captured a suspected terrorist in their location, approximately 203 km northwest of Baghdad, June 6.  The man was reportedly a member of an IED cell.  One additional suspect was detained.

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Gulf Region South Engineers visit, assess health clinic in Az Zubayr

BASRA - Gulf Region South Corps of Engineers conducted a walk-through at a health clinic in Az Zubayr, Iraq June 7.  Bruno Himmler, U.S. Embassy Health Attaché to the Iraqi Ministry of Health, traveled with the GRS Engineers to see how the building was holding up and how it was being utilized.  Though the facility was closed for the day as part of its normal hours of op, Himmler and GRS Engineers could see the building has been holding up well since being turned over to the GoI more than a year ago.
The pharmacy was stocked with medications and there were boxes of supplies labeled as being from the Ministry of Health.

Bruno Himmler conducts a walk-through at the health clinic.  Construction was completed on the clinic more than 12 months ago by Iraqi firms working with the Gulf Region South Corps of Engineers. The walk-through was done to see how the building is holding up over time.

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Iraqi Army nets large weapons haul

BASRA - IA soldiers netted a large haul of weapons and ammo in ops across Basra and in the nearby town of Az Zubayr, June 6.
In more than a 24-hour period, 330 mortar rounds, 104 small arms, 20 hand grenades, 72 rockets, 3 rocket launchers and 17 RPGs were seized.  Also seized were 37 various IEDs.
At the same time, IP were able to secure a truck-load of mortar and artillery shells discovered in previous weeks.
The ops were a sign of how the continuing confidence from the success of Op Charge of The Knights is still paying security dividends to the people of Basra.
"This op was 100% planned by the IA, and though the UK MiTT teams were present, there was no requirement for them to get involved," said Capt. Chris Ford, a spokesman for the MND-SE). "For MND-SE, this is enormously gratifying as it shows the Division we are mentoring and who we trained on urban ops are able to take ops right from the planning stage all the way through execution successfully."
Since the beginning of Charge of the Knights, Iraqi SF have seized more than 4,000 mortar rounds, more than 600 rockets and more than 1,500 small arms.

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Iraqi Security Forces discover six caches

BASRA - Iraqi SF found 6 caches containing more than 100 rockets, 200 mortars, 60 anti-aircraft rockets, 3
launchers, 30 IEDs, 90 AK-47 Assault Rifles, 20 grenades, 10 RPGs and various other weapons during raids in Basra, June 6.

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Dear Interested Readers,
HEADLINE NEWS:  Operation Muthana Strike destroys major al-Qaeda-In-Iraq cell.  Other criminals killed or captured, and tremendous amounts of weapons caches seized, were part of the big stories of the day.  Technology comes to Kirkuk province to improve emergency services.
Joanna
_______________________________________

Multi-National Corps - Iraq
Public Affairs Office, Camp Victory
APO AE 09342

June 8, 2008

 ISOF capture Special Groups criminal

BALAD - Iraqi SOF captured a suspected Special Groups criminal in al-Amarah, a city northeast of Basra, June 5.
The ISOF conducted the operation to capture the suspected criminal who reportedly had weapons caches in and around his home containing Katyushka rockets, AK-47 assault rifles and suppressors for various pistols.

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Iraqi Army Soldiers seize more weapons in Sadr City

BAGHDAD - Iraqi Army soldiers seized multiple weapons caches in Sadr City June 6, consisting of 16 AK-47s, 200 AK-47 rounds, 2 Berno rifles, a sniper rifle, 5 RPG propellants, 25 82 mm mortar rounds, 19 artillery rounds, 6 60 mm mortar rounds, 5 mortar tops, 3 IEDs, 3 detonating devices, an anti-tank mine, 12 rocket launchers, 11 RPGs, 2100 PKC rounds, and numerous munition components.

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National Police, MND-B Soldiers seize weapons caches, kill one criminal

BAGHDAD - June 6, Soldiers from the 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID, discovered 11 rocket warheads, 4 122mm mortar rounds, a rocket tube, and a medium-sized bomb at approx. 10:15 a.m. northwest of Baghdad.
Iraqi NP seized 16 RPGs, 8 boosters, a pineapple grenade and an RPG night site in the Oubaidy area of New Baghdad.
At approx. 6:15 p.m. in the Furat area of Rashid, Soldiers from the1st BCT, 4th ID, seized 14 sticks of dynamite, a battery detonator and an indeterminate amount of electrical wire.
Soldiers from 2nd SBCT, 25th ID were attacked with small-arms fire at approx. 11:30 p.m. northwest of Baghdad, and returned fire and killing one militant.

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 ISF, Rakkasans uncover two caches in Mahmudiyah area

BAGHDAD - June 3, after receiving a tip from an informant, IA Soldiers and 3rd Bn, 320th FA uncovered a cache consisting of 3 SPG-9 rockets; 12 57 mm anti-aircraft rounds; and 28 60 mm mortar rounds.
The second cache was discovered by Mahmudiyah IP and the 65th MP Co near Muadefeen, about 26 km
southwest of Baghdad. That cache consisted of 6 60 mm mortars, 32 RPG rounds, 5 RPG motors and various other mortar components.
Rakkasans from 187th Inf Regt, 3rd BCT, 101st Abn Div (AASLT), recently began riverine ops in the area. Gaining access to caches similar to these buried in the river bed is one of the unit's goals.

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First block paved in groundbreaking ceremony leading to improved emergency services

PRT member and Federal Emergency Management Agency representative Frank Disimino looks on as Gov. Mustafa of Kirkuk Province paves the first stone of a construction project that will improve the delivery of emergency services for the Iraqi people during a ceremony at the Provincial Joint Coordination Center, June 5.  The Kirkuk ECC will provide first responder service in the form of a 911 system designed exclusively for cellular phones.  U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Gulf Region North provided the system to the Province and provided engineering assistance in the design of the new building to be constructed within the Provincial Joint Coordination Center complex.

A keystone representing the beginning of the construction project.

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Salah ad-Din province Iraqi Special Weapons and Tactics team detains two terrorists in Tikrit

BALAD - The Salah ad-Din province Iraqi SWAT team captured 2 suspected AQI cell members in Tikrit, June 4.
The ISWAT conducted an op to capture suspected members of an AQI IED cell in Tikrit believed to be
responsible for VBIED attacks against Iraqi and CF, and kidnappings in Kirkuk. The men are also suspected of making false ID cards.

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IA Soldiers find 100th cache, continue securing Sadr City

BAGHDAD - IA soldiers seized a weapons cache June 5 in Sadr City, marking the 100th cache the soldiers have seized since Op Peace began May 20.
IA soldiers are patrolling Sadr City to help protect citizens from the violence of Special Groups criminals that are operating in the neighborhoods.
IA soldiers have seized 114 IEDs, 60 EFPs, 295 mortar rounds, 242 RPGs, 163 homemade hand grenades,123 grenades, 109 anti-tank mines,11 rockets, 6 helicopter rockets, 4 anti-aircraft rockets, 21 tank rounds, 367 AK-47s, 41 artillery rounds, 39 RPG launchers, 23 mortar tubes, 11 rocket rails, 10 RPKs, 6 PKCs, 7 machine guns, 24 rifles, 22 Siminov sniper rifles, 8 pistols, an anti-aircraft gun, 62 kilograms of TNT, a crate of TNT, 7 sticks of TNT, 20 one-liter cans of TNT, a box of TNT with ball bearings, other homemade explosives, bomb-making materials and a government truck.

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ISF, MND-B Soldiers seize weapons in Baghdad

BAGHDAD - Soldiers from the 7th Sqdrn, 10th Cav Regt., 1st BCT, 4th ID, and Iraqi SF, acting on a tip from a concerned Iraqi citizen,  seized weapons caches as they continued ops to increase security in Baghdad June 6.

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National Police, MND-B Soldiers seize weapons cache

BAGHDAD - Iraqi NP officers, with support from Soldiers assigned to their NP Transition Team and 1st CAB, 66th AR, seized a weapons cache during a combined op in the Karadah security district of eastern Baghdad, June 6.
"We are happy to provide support as Iraqi SF take the lead in conducting search ops," said Maj. Joey Sullinger, spokesperson for 4th BCT, 10th Mtn Div.

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MND-B Soldiers detain two, find caches

FOB FALCON -  June 5, Soldiers from the 1st BCT, 4th ID, detained a suspect at approx. 9:45 a.m. in the Saydiyah community, allegedly involved in conducting IED attacks against CF.
At approx. 1:30 p.m. Soldiers also from the 1st BCT, detained a suspect while conducting a combat patrol in the Saha neighborhood.
IA soldiers seized 2 hand grenades, an anti-aircraft round, a bag of homemade explosives, 50 12.7 mm rounds of ammo and various IED making materials in the Saydiyah neighborhood.
"The 'Raider' Brigade conducts combat ops at all hours of the day to bring terrorists to justice," said Maj. Dave Olson, spokesman for 1st BCT.  "CF along with Iraqi SF maintain a constant presence to deter these individuals and prevent harm to the citizens of Rashid."

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Operation Muthana Strike destroys major al-Qaeda in Iraq cell

TIKRIT - CF detained more than 20 suspected terrorists and killed 4 during an op targeting a major AQI terrorist network along the Tigris River Valley in the western portion of the Ta'mim province, June 4. 
Among the dead were a suspected cell leader and his top lieutenants who were part of a network that is responsible for car bomb attacks and weapons smuggling in the province, as well as surrounding areas in northern Iraq.
The op was conducted by elements of 1st Bn, 87th Inf Regt, 1st BCT, 10th Mtn Div, along with other CF, and was a result of info gained from previous successful ops and tips from local citizens.

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Dear Interested Readers,
We have a picture to go with the great story on the women's conference in Irbil.  There is also a most interesting story on the economic boom in southern Baghdad.  A rebuilding of a nation is going on from the ground floor up, and our troops are so proud to be part of it, as we are privileged to read of it.  Kudos to the "Raider Brigade" for their superb success in the Diyala region.  Large weapons caches seized, and criminals detained.
Joanna
_________________________________

Multi-National Corps - Iraq
Public Affairs Office, Camp Victory
APO AE 09342

June 7, 2008

MND-B Soldiers find caches, detain five suspects

FOB FALCON -  In the Rashid district of southern Baghdad, June 3, Soldiers from Troop A, 7th Sqdrn, 10th Cav Regt, 1st BCT, 4th ID detained 5 suspects for their link to a cache recovered in the Karb De Gla neighborhood.
Soldiers from HHC, 4th Bn., 64th Armor Regt., attached to the 1st BCT, 4th ID, found a 115 mm high explosive artillery round in the Furat area, June 4.
"The Raider Bde and its attached units continue to conduct combat patrols and work closely with the Iraqi SF to provide a safe and secure environment for the Iraqi people," said Maj. Dave Olson, 1st BCT Spokesman, 4th ID. "Our Soldiers are working every day to locate criminals and haul in caches."

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Discussing issues, northern Iraq Women's Conference

Many influential Iraqi women of the northern Provinces, CF and members of the GoI gathered June 4 at the Professor Sa'ad Conference Center in the city of Irbil to discuss some of the major issues women are facing in the country today.  The conference covered job opportunities, health, education and security issues for women.

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South Baghdad economy booming again

BAGHDAD - When Capt. Shawn Carbone first took a good look at the south Baghdad area economy, he found it similar to his studies of America during the Great Depression of the 1930s.  "Most of the historically strong businesses were gone," said Carbone, economics team leader for the Baghdad-7
ePRT.  "The owners had left and packed up.  The businesses were shut down and there was mass unemployment across the board."
Carbone saw an opportunity to help turn things around. His training in economics at Niagara University,  prepared him for the task of helping the citizens of south Baghdad Province.  "It's rewarding because it's an experiment in economics," Carbone said. "This is from the ground up. It's much like our depression-era economics."
After security was established, the biggest obstacle to economic recovery, said Carbone, was the centralized nature of the economy in the past.  Local industries such as a chicken hatchery, a poultry processing plant and a meat processing facility, for example, received inputs from and sold their goods to the Iraqi govt at set prices.
"Cooperation is the biggest thing," Carbone said. "From where I sit, these businesses are complimentary. But they never had a capitalist society, which is all about bringing down costs."  Now the govt is in a state of transition and moving toward free trade.  "Everyone is going through the change," Carbone said. "Some of the govt systems are not yet in place, but that's where we're heading."
Civil affairs Soldiers used their battalion's bulk funds to stimulate individual small businesses through a series of $2,500 microgrants. Though most of the projects focused on agriculture, which dominates the local economy and employs the largest percentage of people, other avenues were explored as well.
Microgrants were given to businesses ranging from chicken farms to internet cafes.  Most recently, a women's beauty parlor opened up in Arab Jabour, something that would have been impossible in that area until recently.
Betts said Soldiers have found other creative ways to involve women in business.  One example he gave was women's sewing cooperatives, which grew out of women's committees looking for ways to employ
themselves and raise revenue for their causes.  "One [co-op] that I know is basically made up of war widows," Betts said. "These ladies want to do something for orphans and school children. They are actually making clothes and selling them. I thought that was pretty original."
The only condition that comes attached to the microgrants is that business owners attend business training and meetings of their local business associations, Betts said.  The formation of local business
associations has been vital in helping citizens to help themselves.  The focus now is in getting business owners weaned off of CF funding and to get them working with their own govt.
Basil Razzak, a bilingual, bicultural adviser with the Baghdad-7 ePRT, said that it took some adjusting for local farmers and businessmen to get used to the new economic model.  "Up until now, it was all supervised by the govt.  Everybody belonged to the govt," Razzak said.  "I remember at one business assoc. meeting, the chairman said, [to Carbone] 'You are our boss.'  Carbone said, 'I'm not your boss. I'm here to help you and support you, but it's your organization, and you can conduct your meeting as you
like."
Razzak, a Canadian citizen who grew up in Baghdad and holds a degree in administration and economics from the University of Baghdad, said the capitalist spirit is slowly but surely taking hold here. "They are open to new ideas, Razzak said. "They realize the era of state-owned business is gone. They are willing to work and cooperate."
Carbone said the stimulus CF provided to the local economy has already produced unexpected results.   "When they start to see these places opening with the help of CF, some of the people have come back and opened up on their own," Carbone said. "That's something we didn't expect."
Betts sees signs that businesses have returned to stay in the area.  He said the greatest benefit of the renewed prosperity was a population that was employed and able to meet their needs. "That's the key to security.  People that are able to take care of themselves and their families are not out there planting bombs and killing people for money," Betts said. "I want to see a strong economy, because that's the cornerstone of stability."

Hussen Jowd, a butcher in Arab Jabour, serves a sandwich at his newly renovated butcher shop and food stand.  Jowd received microgrants that enabled him to increase his stock and expand his business.

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Iraqi Army Soldiers take weapons off streets in Sadr City

BAGHDAD - IA Soldiers uncovered weapons and munitions caches in the Sadr City district of Baghdad, June 4, as they continued conducting ops to increase the area's safety.

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Dragoon Regiment takes command in TOA ceremony

TIKRIT - The 2nd Stryker Cav Regt, known as the "Dragoon Regt," took the reins of responsibility for the Diyala region of Iraq from the 4th Stryker BCT, "Raider Brigade," during a Transition of Authority ceremony, June 1.
The Raider Bde cleared more than 40,000 kilometers of road, destroyed more than 2,100 IEDs and helped induct more than 12,000 Iraqis into SoI organization during its tour of duty.
"The 4th Stryker BCT gave the Iraqi people of the Diyala province hope," said Maj. Gen. Mark P. Hertling, cmdr. of MND-North. "Today, the Diyala region is flourishing, because of the efforts of the Raiders Bde."
"It's a great day to be in the cavalry and a great day to be a Dragoon," said Lt. Col. Bryan Denny, deputy cmdr., 2nd Stryker Cav Regt. "We're on the brink of great things in Diyala and must work hard to capitalize on them. (We must) keep up the pressure on AQI and other extremist orgs., and embrace your Iraqi counterparts, as we are surely united on a common struggle against tyranny and evil."  The 2nd Cav Regt is the longest serving Cav Regt in the U.S.
"I recognize and appreciate what a great job the Raider Bde has done in the Diyala province and can assure you the Dragoons will continue the struggle for a free and democratic Iraq in a place whose importance cannot be underestimated," said Denny. "The Dragoons accept this mission and will fight with our Iraqi partners.  We will move forward and take the Diyala province to the next level in a free and democratic Iraq."

Maj. Gen. Mark P. Hertling salutes the American Flag during the playing of the American National Anthem.

Col. Jon S. Lehr, cmdr. of the 4th Stryker BCT, 2nd ID and Command Sgt. Maj. John W. Troxell of the 4th
Stryker BCT, 2nd ID fold up the "Raider" Brigade flag.

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MND-B Soldiers find multiple weapons caches

BAGHDAD - June 4, Solders from 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID, discovered 20 grenade fuses, a box of grenade parts, and 300 ammo rounds at approx. 12:20 p.m. northwest of Baghdad.
Soldiers found a 120mm mortar round, a rocket, an 81mm mortar round, 86 empty 107mm rocket casings, a base plate, timer fuses and detonation cord at approx. an hour later northwest of Bagdad.
At approx. 8:20 p.m. in the Shurta area of Rashid, Soldiers from 1st BCT, 4th ID, found 7 120mm mortar rounds and 34 boxes of 12.7mm ammo.

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Dear Interested Readers,
Progress being made in women's concerns at conference in Irbil.  General Patraeus visits Sadr City to view progress, and support the start of a Neighborhood Guard.   Great strides are being made to make sure people have potable water.  Increased security in Kirkuk allows for Inaugural Criminal Justice Conference, and in Mosul Iraqi SF builds trust with the people.  Weapons and criminals continue to be neutralized.
Joanna
_________________________________________________

Multi-National Corps - Iraq
Public Affairs Office, Camp Victory
APO AE 09342

June 6 2008

MND-B Soldiers find weapons caches in Baghdad

BAGHDAD - June 4, Soldiers serving with the 1st BCT, 4th ID, seized 180 pounds of a conventional plastic explosive, in the West Rashid district of Baghdad at approx. 6 a.m.
Approx. 45 minutes later, Soldiers with the 3rd BCT, 4th ID, discovered a weapons cache in the Istaqlal area north of Baghdad. The items included a flak jacket, six AK-47s, 6 AK-47 magazines and numerous 7.62 mm rounds.

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IA Soldiers find IEDs, IED-making materials, weapons caches in Sadr City

BAGHDAD - IA Soldiers seized and disposed of IEDs, IED-making materials and weapons caches in
the Sadr City district of Baghdad, June 4.
All 4 IEDs consisted of 3 "daisy-chained" 120 mm rounds buried underground.

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Women's conference held in Irbil

IRBIL - Members of the GoI, provincial govts and Coalition and Iraqi SF met June 4, to discuss the enfranchisement of women in Iraq. 
The conference supports ops to strengthen the nation of Iraq, specifically addressing Iraqi women's participation in the security, economic and political processes of Iraq. Topics covered during the conference include job opportunities, education, health and legal issues.

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Gen. Petraeus visits MND-B troops

Gen. David Petraeus, the comm. gen. of MNF-Iraq, meets with one of the first members of the Sadr City Neighborhood Guard, June 4. The Neighborhood Guard is patterned after the successful SoI program created in other districts of Baghdad. It is designed to provide the members of the Guard the training necessary to help protect the neighborhoods where they live.

Gen. Petraeus and Dr. Barham Salih, the deputy prime minister of Iraq, walk through the bustling Jamilla Market to observe the resurgence of an important hub of commerce for a large portion of Baghdad.

Gen. Petraeus thanks a MND-Baghdad Soldier for his hard work and sacrifices in the recent weeks.

Gen. Petraeus meets with a local Sheik to discuss security, the Neighborhood Guard and revitalization of the surrounding community.

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Patriot Bde assists with water distribution project

Staff Sgt. Matt Meadows

FOB LOYALTY - Baghdad Water Authority officials and Iraqi SF are about to begin bringing 9 Nissan residents truckloads of purified, potable water with a little assistance from Patriot Bde Soldiers from 4th BCT, 10th Mtn Div (Lt).
A combined project, dubbed Patriot H2O, to establish 3 water-distribution sites and coordinate transportation to disburse water, began in late April and is scheduled to be complete around the middle of June.
The project entails distributing water to residents via BWA trucks, installing water tanks to support Reverse Osmosis Water Purification Unit operations to purify water, fixing water leaks to prevent cholera, and installing a waterline from Abu Nuwas pump station to a water treatment plant in Rasheed.
The Reverse Osmosis Water Purification Unit is a system that purifies water drawn from a raw-water source to provide one of three necessities of life, said Maj. Jeffrey Smith, who serves as brigade civil-military ops officer for 4th BCT.  "In addition to ROWPU operations, educating the populace is important for preserving this valuable resource as well as fixing water leaks and preventing and discouraging locals from illegally tapping the water lines as this generally causes more harm to the water system," said Smith.  "Other projects, such as installing a waterline from Abu Nuwas raw-water pump station to the Rasheed Water Treatment Plant, will assist in bringing higher quality water to the end user through providing better quality water upstream from industrial complexes.
There is a water shortage in 9 Nissan, and an infrastructure to alleviate such water issues is not yet in place, said Capt. Benjamin Curtis, asst. civil-military ops officer for 4th BCT.
While Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki has pledged such water problems will be resolved by 2009, Curtis said he is looking for short-term solutions in the meantime.  "The problem is we have 2008 to worry about, so we came up with this plan to have water purification systems installed and to start a distribution network as a temporary stopgap," said Curtis.
"They (local contractors) have been bringing small armies to the jobsite to get everything done," said Curtis. "The contractors selected for the construction at each site are really good, and we're extremely happy with everything they've done so far. They've got all the equipment needed - and then some.  What we've done with this project is we're trying to build a sustainable network," said Curtis. "People can stay hydrated and we can prevent cholera outbreaks because we're drying up a lot of leaks.  It's more of a humanitarian issue that we've tackled as an infrastructure issue, and we'll see where it goes from there.  It's an Iraqi issue; they identified the problem, along with us, and they helped identify a solution.  So we are all working in partnership with them to solve the problem. We are providing the means; they are providing the network to get the water out."

A contracted Iraqi worker repairs a leaky waterline as a BWA engineer supervises at JSS Al Khansa in
eastern Baghdad, June 2.

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Iraqi Security Forces build trust with local population

MOSUL - More than 1,000 Iraqi SF backed by CF, executed Op Spearhammer, a cordon and search op in
the central Mosul neighborhood of Al Farouk, which resulted in the appreciation of local residents.
Although neither detainees nor caches were discovered, the residents welcomed the IA into the area as a warning to insurgents that they are no longer welcomed.
"This is the largest combined dismounted op conducted to date and perhaps the largest to enter this neighborhood since 2003-2004," said Maj. Thomas Feltey, EO 3rd Sqdrn, 3rd ACR.
The ISF and CF executing Eagle Roar, a cordon and search op in East Mosul received similar gratitude. One business owner said his home had recently been searched by IA forces and he was happy ISF were in the neighborhood.

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Increased security gains in Kirkuk allow focus to expand to Rule of Law procedures

KIRKUK - Kirkuk Provincial Rule of Law judges and lawyers met with their key provincial and city police leadership during the inaugural Criminal Justice Conference at FOB Warrior in Kirkuk, May 29.
"The security gains of the region are evident -- over a 70% decrease in violent attacks.  As a result, we can now begin our transition from a form of martial law to rule of law," said Lt. Col. Kevin Brown, 1st Bde, 10th Mtn Div dep. cmdr.
"The 2 crucial stages of a case are the initial contact and determination that a crime has been committed by the police," Chief Investigative Judge Othman said. "The second is the collection of evidence and the questioning of suspects. The manner in which the police and investigators handle those stages, could determine the outcome of that case."
Kirkuk Provincial Police Chief Maj. Gen. Bakr, a former lawyer, agreed with the judges that better understanding between what is expected of police officers and additional training in interrogation procedures are necessary to safeguard the rights of Kirkuk's citizens and ensure criminals are jailed.

The inaugural Criminal Justice Conference at FOB Warrior in Kirkuk.

Lt. Col. Kevin Brown and Jamal Bakr speak with Kirkuk Chief Judge Ahmad.

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IA trains first class of Sadr City Neighborhood Guard recruits

by Sgt. Zach Mott

FOB WAR EAGLE - Programs such as the Awakening Movement in Anbar province and the SoI across parts of Baghdad and Iraq have played a critical role in those areas moving toward security and economic stability.
Soldiers with the 3rd BCT, 4th ID, recently conducted a recruiting effort in Sadr City for a similar program, known as the Neighborhood Guard.
More than 50 recruits from the Jamilla neighborhood of Sadr City spent 3 days at FOB War Eagle from June 2-4. They were trained on everything from common courtesies to weapons familiarization and military bearing.
"This is what's going to get the IA out of the cities and eventually turn them over to police," said Maj. Philip Halliburton, the MiTT chief for the 42nd Bde, 11th IA Div.
IA soldiers are leading the training for their eventual replacements. The instructors, who were mentored by MND-B Soldiers, don't allow for even the smallest discrepancy to distract from their detailed instruction.
For many of these men, who range in age from late teens to late 40s, this is their first experience with military-style organization and discipline. The 3-day training requires the recruits to march to meals, stand in formation and speak only when spoken to.  Any deviations from this protocol are dealt with quickly.
"This is great training that will help us secure our neighborhood," said Abdul Kassim, a 20-year-old former blacksmith and recruit from Jamilla.
When these new recruits take their posts, Halliburton said it will be a another sign the Iraqi people are providing security for themselves.  "Now it's somebody they know providing security not just some nameless face," he said.  "Anything that's going wrong, they'll be more inclined to share, because they live and work in that neighborhood."

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IA, MND-B Soldiers find multiple weapons caches

BAGHDAD - June 3, in the Karkh security district, IA Soldiers seized 2 rocket components, 2 RPGs, 2 MP-5 magazines and an armored vest.
Soldiers from 3rd BCT, 4th ID, discovered 6 60mm high-explosive mortar rounds, 2 82mm mortar rounds, 3 RPGs, 7 mortar tail booms and a grenade, in the Sadr City district of Baghdad.
IA Soldiers found an IED, 2 rocket warheads, 12 RPGs, an RPG launcher; approx. 4,000, 7.62mm rounds; 14 boxes of various ammo, a PKC and a AK-47, a rocket motor, 3 radios, 5 RPG motors, 4 blasting caps, 5 flak vests and 3 pounds of explosives, in the Baladiat area of New Baghdad.
A tip from an Iraqi citizen led Soldiers from 3rd BCT, 4th ID, to a weapons cache in Adhamiyah, consisting of 5 anti-personnel mines and a 57mm rocket.
In the Hadar area of Rashid, Soldiers from 1st BCT, 4th ID, seized 3 60mm mortar rounds, 2 60mm mortar tubes, homemade explosives, 5 grenades, 2 AK-47s, a blasting cap, 2 120mm mortars, an improvised rocket and 2 improvised rocket tubes.
IA Soldiers and Soldiers from 2nd BCT, 101st Abn Div (AASLT), seized 21 82mm mortar rounds while conducting a joint patrol in the Shulla area of Kadhamiyah.
In the Khadra area of Kadhamiyah, IA Soldiers and Soldiers from 2-101 Abn. Div., found a 155mm mortar round, 3 100mm mortar rounds, 5 60mm mortar rounds, homemade explosives, a grenade, a mortar accelerant, detonation cord and a cell phone charger.

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Raider Bde. Soldiers detain wanted criminals, seize munitions

BAGHDAD -  June 3, in the Doura neighborhood of the Rashid district in southern Baghdad, Soldiers from HHC, 2nd Bn, 4th Inf Regt, attached to the 1st BCT, 4th ID, captured 2 suspects at approx. 1:30 a.m. The detainees were wanted for allegedly committing crimes and acts of violence.
In the Abu T'shir community of southern Baghdad, Soldiers from the 1st Bn., 22nd Inf. Regt., 1st BCT, 4th ID,  captured a suspected criminal at approx. 3 p.m.
An hour later, Soldiers from Troop A, 7th Sqdrn, 10th Cav Regt, discovered 2 30mm mortar tubes, 3 60mm mortar rounds, 5 hand grenades, 2 AK-47 rifles, homemade explosives, various ammo and a blasting cap during a security patrol in the Karb de Gla region of southeastern Baghdad.  The Soldiers detained 5.

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ISOF capture suspected AQI cell leader

BALAD -  In eastern Mosul, June 2, the ISOF conducted an op to capture a suspected terrorist who is believed to serve as an IED cell leader for AQI. The man is suspected of numerous VBIED attacks.

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Dear Interested Readers,
Support our entertainers supporting our troops.  Suspected cell leader for AQI captured in Mosul, as well as other criminals and weapons caches.  After a great rehabilitation program by our troops, detainees are reunited with their families.  Coalition Forces sustain pressure on AQI.  IA takes command in Rashid.
Joanna
________________________________________

Multi-National Corps - Iraq
Public Affairs Office, Camp Victory
APO AE 09342

June 5, 2008

Comedic superstar Dane Cook performs for Soldiers in northern Iraq

Comedian and actor Dane Cook holds the American Flag while Lt. Col. Kevin Brown, dep. cmdr. of the 1st BCT, 10th Mtn Div reaffirms the oath of service for Sgt. Darren Horve during a re-enlistment ceremony with Soldiers of the 1st BCT, June 1.  Cook performed for Soldiers and Airmen on FOB Warrior in Kirkuk in northeastern Iraq as part of the USO Combat Comedy Tour.

Dane Cook stands with Soldiers of the 1st BCT after assisting during a re-enlistment ceremony.

Comedians Dane Cook, Al Del Bene and Robert Kelly stand with Soldiers from 1st Bn, 87th Inf after performing a comedy show at FOB McHenry in northeastern Iraq.

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IA, MND-B Soldiers find multiple weapons caches

BAGHDAD - IA Soldiers and Soldiers from 3rd BCT, 4th ID, seized numerous weapons and munitions in Baghdad June 3.

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Raider Bde. Soldiers detain wanted criminals, seize munitions

BAGHDAD - MND-Baghdad Soldiers detained 2 suspected criminals wanted by the GoI, June 3 in the Doura neighborhood of the Rashid district in southern Baghdad.
Soldiers from HHC, 2nd Bn, 4th Inf Regt, attached to the 1st BCT, 4th ID, captured the 2 suspects at
approx. 1:30 a.m. The detainees were wanted for allegedly committing crimes and acts of violence.
In the Abu T'shir community of southern Baghdad, Soldiers from the 1st Bn., 22nd Inf. Regt., 1st BCT, 4th ID,  captured a suspected criminal.
Soldiers from Troop A, 7th Sqdrn, 10th Cav Regt, discovered 2 30mm mortar tubes, 3 60mm mortar rounds, 5 hand grenades, 2 AK-47 rifles, homemade explosives, various ammo and a blasting cap during a security patrol in the Karb de Gla region of southeastern Baghdad. The Soldiers also detained 5 individuals for questioning.

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ISOF capture suspected AQI cell leader

BALAD, Iraq - Iraqi SOF captured a suspected cell leader for the AQI in eastern Mosul June 2.
The ISOF conducted an op to capture a suspected terrorist who is believed to serve as an IED cell leader
for AQI. The man is suspected of numerous VBIED attacks.

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Released detainees encouraged to rebuild community, Iraq

By Spc. Justin Snyder, 2nd BCT, 1st Armd. Div.

BAGHDAD - "Not only has your family been waiting for you, but your country has been waiting for you.  Go do good things and join in the rebuilding of Iraq," said Turkey Sawady, a representative of the Jisr Diyala Nahia.
This was the message given to 15 detainees as they were released to their families during a reintegration ceremony held outside the JSS in Jisr Diyala, May 29.
"We are very thankful to the CF for allowing these people to have a second chance," Sawady said. "We are very happy to have these men released. I am confident that they will now participate in rebuilding the country of Iraq and make a positive impact in their community."
In the last year, the area of Jisr Diyala has seen many improvements.  Markets were revitalized and water distribution plants, schools and health clinics were established. Violence went down, thanks to the security efforts of the SoI volunteers, the IP and CF.
Brig. Gen. Emad, cmdr. of the 3-1 NP Bde, said the people of Iraq know CF played a huge role in making those projects happen and continue to help make Jisr Diyala a better place.  He would like the detainees to join in and do their part as free citizens of Iraq.
Sawady would like to see the former detainees use their time spent in detention to influence future generations for years to come.  "Use your past experiences to become an idol and be an example for your children," Sawady said. "The future of Iraq depends on it."

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IA Soldiers take weapons off streets in Sadr City

BAGHDAD - IA Soldiers uncovered several weapons caches in the Sadr City district of Baghdad as they worked to increase safety in the area, June 3.

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ISF, MND-B Soldiers detain one suspected insurgent, seize weapons caches in Baghdad

BAGHDAD - Iraqi SF and Soldiers from the 2nd BCT, 101st Abn Div (AASLT) detained a suspected insurgent and seized weapons and munitions as they continued conducting ops to increase security and stability, June 3.

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 IA Soldiers seize weapons in Sadr City

BAGHDAD - IA Soldiers seized a number of weapons caches in Sadr City during Operation Peace, June 2.
"Iraqi SF are becoming more effective and efficient in removing illegal weapons from Sadr City," said Col. Allen Batchelet, MND-Baghdad and 4th ID chief of staff.

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MNF-IRAQ
PRESS DESK
BAGHDAD, Iraq
http://www.mnf-iraq.com

Wanted men captured, terrorist safe-houses destroyed (Baghdad)       

BAGHDAD – CF continued to batter the AQI bombing and foreign terrorist facilitation networks June 4, detaining 9 suspects in central and northwestern Iraq.
In and around Baghdad, CF disrupted AQI’s bombing networks by capturing 2 wanted men and detaining 2 additional suspected terrorists.  One wanted man detained in Baghdad was reportedly involved in weapons distribution and car bombings. The other wanted man was detained about 20 km north, in Taji, and is believed to gather intel for a bombing network in the area.
CF in Tikrit, about 160 km north of Baghdad, captured a wanted man and 4 associates who are believed to be involved in organizing suicide bombings and facilitating the movement of foreign terrorists into Iraq. Additionally, detainee reporting led CF to a foreign-terrorist bed-down site west of Bi’aj, about 130 km west of Mosul, where they discovered and safely destroyed 2 terrorist safe-houses.

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MNF-IRAQ
PRESS DESK
BAGHDAD, Iraq

Coalition forces sustain pressure on al-Qaeda operatives in Iraq

BAGHDAD – June 4, CF discovered weapons, car bombs and a bed-down site during a series of ops north of Baghdad that wrapped up June 1, with 15 suspected terrorists in custody.
The 5 days of ops spanned from the Diyala River near Khan Bani Sa’ad to the Tigris River near Balad and targeted AQI terrorists huddled in the area.
CF detained 3 suspects while targeting a terrorist leader suspected of facilitating suicide bomb attacks, kidnapping local Iraqis and attacking IA and police personnel. They also pursued a terrorist leader suspected of manufacturing and distributing explosives and leading a group that conducted bombing attacks in the area. During multiple ops they detained eight terrorist suspects.
While securing the area near Balad, CF detected 4 men hiding in a vehicle.  In the area, CF discovered a terrorist bed-down site, which they destroyed to prevent its future use in criminal acts.
In another location CF found 2 vehicles being prepared as car bombs, a nearby house that was booby-trapped as a house bomb and a cache of weapons. The force moved civilians out of the way and safely destroyed the weapons and bombs.

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Iraqi Army Takes Command in Rashid       

By Staff Sgt. Brent Williams
1st BCT, 4th ID

FOB FALCON — The Soldiers of the 1st BCT, 4th ID MiTT don’t collect weapons. The MiTT team assigned to the 43rd Bde., 11th IA Div., did not deploy to the Rashid district in southern Baghdad to capture detainees either.
Nor do they have to – thanks to the ongoing efforts of the IA and Iraqi SF working with MND–Baghdad Soldiers, said Maj. Mark Thompson, ops officer for the 1st Bn, 22nd Inf Regt.
“The IA is a lot better than the last time we were here, and we are going out there to continue that; so that sometime in the near future the IA soldiers will be fully capable of operating without our support,” Thompson said before the start of a cordon and search op led by the IA, May 30, in the Jihad community of west Rashid.
The team of select officers and enlisted Soldiers participated in the day-long event to coach and advise the IA and call for indirect fire support and close air support if needed, said Thompson, an armor officer.
“The Iraqi army has stood up to become for all intents and purposes an Army; while the NPs are modeled after the Italian Arma dei Carabinieri (MP), responding to natural disasters, civil disorders and emergencies of that nature,” he explained. “Right now the 2 are working West Rashid in the same capacity: to enforce security and enhance stability for the Iraqi people.”
The IA planned, coordinated and conducted the op, which allowed the MiTT team to serve strictly as observers, said Getchell, a 16-year combat veteran.
“This was a small op for the unit, but an opportunity for them to cut their teeth,” he said.  Getchell, who worked on a bde MiTT team during his last deployment in 2006, said that his initial impressions of the IA unit’s op were good, and that the job of the MiTTs is progressively getting easier.
“They understand the movement as a unit,” he said. “They are working to get on line and sweep an area, organizing to clear out a row of buildings.”  According to Getchell, the biggest change to the ISF is their level of competency, understanding that they are in charge, and charismatic leaders, who are taking charge of the situation.  “It used to be if Iraqi soldiers screwed something up in Saddam’s army, they would find themselves in the bottom of a grave,” said Getchell. “Now, we’re getting them to realize that they are in the lead. They have the ability to make decisions, and no longer have to ask permission to make things happen.”
“The 2nd Bn. seems to be very professional,” said Lt. Col. Matthew Elledge, cmdr. of the 1st “Regulars” Bn., 22nd Inf. Regt.  “I am pretty proud of what they are doing so far. The Iraqi army soldiers are treating the Iraqi people with respect, working with the community and addressing issues as they work to secure the neighborhoods and clear weapons and contraband from the Jihad community."

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Dear Interested Readers,
Great trust and confidence continues to build for the Iraqi Police and the Iraqi Army among its citizens.  A story of success and achievement is celebrated as the 3rd ID is replaced by the 10th Mtn Div.  A huge story of a massive weapons cache uncovered in the al-Jazeera desert of thousands of pounds of weapons and munitions.  Criminals detained or killed and many more weapons caches uncovered.
Joanna
__________________________________

 

Multi-National Corps
Public Affairs Office, Camp Victory
APO AE 09342

June 4, 2008

Iraqi National Police gain respect of villagers

By Lt. Col. Sam Davis, HQ NP MiTT and
Lt. Col. Mohammed, Iraqi NP deputy

MOSUL - The residents of Yarimjah, a neighborhood in southern Mosul, were apprehensive when the Iraqi NP arrived at 4 a.m., May 24. They had heard many rumors about the NP from neighbors and television.
What the neighborhood residents experienced was unexpected. The NP, under the command of Col. Muhsen moved into the area with exemplary discipline and courtesy.
Muhsen, a 42-year-old former Army officer, and his men rapidly searched every building within the neighborhood for illegal weapons and terrorists while minimizing the disruption to the residents.  He requires each member of the unit to treat citizens with respect and dignity. 
Fasial further explained he does not tolerate any misconduct by his men, and will fire those who are involved in the slightest offense. This sets a high moral climate for his unit.  The villagers complimented Faisal's methods.
"They treat us like brothers, and the NP are the best force that has come into this area," said resident Moustafa. 
Faisal's approach appeared to have made a positive impression on adults and children.  Omron, standing beside his young son said, "If you asked my son, he would join the NP right now!"

   

Col. Muhsen listens to concerns of a villager.

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ISF, MND-B Soldiers engage criminals, take weapons off streets

BAGHDAD - June 2, in the Risalah area of Rashid, Iraqi NP found 18 AK-47s, a 60 mm mortar round, 4,840 PKC rounds and a radio.
In the Huriya area of Kadamiyah, IA Soldiers seized 55 AK-47s and 4 sniper rifles.
Soldiers from 4th BCT, 10th Mtn Div were attacked with small-arms and machine gun fire in the Shawra Uldir area of New Baghdad. They defended themselves and killed 2 criminals.
Later in the day these same soldiers were attacked with RPGs and small-arms fire in the same vicinity, again defended themselves and killed two more criminals.

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MND-N Soldiers detain criminals, uncover caches in separate operations

TIKRIT - Soldiers from the 1st BCT, 101st Abn Div (AASLT), conducted multiple ops in the Salah ad-Din Province over the weekend, resulting in the capturing of individuals suspected of insurgent activity, the uncovering of weapons, and ammo caches and foiling of IED emplacements.
The 1st BCT, 101st AD Soldiers in Balad continued to reap the benefits of successful reconciliation over the past several weeks as intel tips from local citizens led them to 2 more caches over the weekend. These caches consisted of mortar rounds, homemade explosives, RPGs, assault and long-range rifles and ammo, as well as communication devices commonly used to detonate explosives.  
In the northern portion of the province, a source-driven op yielded the detention of 7 individuals suspected of insurgent activity in and around Bayji. Five of the individuals were on the CF key individual list.
Also near Bayji, IP foiled an insurgent attempt to emplace an IED in the restive city of Siniyah.  "The IPs in the greater-Bayji area have been extremely attentive to IED emplacers on the roads here," said Lt. Col. Peter Wilhelm, 1st Bn, 327th Inf Regt cmdr., whose battalion is responsible for the Bayji area. "Their vigilance is crucial because CF cannot be everywhere."
In al-Rega, near Samarra, the site of a large cache find last week, Iraqi SF and MND-North Soldiers acted on a tip from a local citizen and found a small cache consisting of 155mm artillery rounds and a mortar round.
In the southeast portion of the province, near Yethrib, another source-driven joint raid resulted in the detention of a man after searching his home and uncovering explosives and miscellaneous weapons.
According to MND-N Soldiers near Yethrib, recent gains in security are attributed to the noticeable difference in the confidence and resolution of the ISF through routine joint ops and the establishment of a Joint Security Coordination Center in Yethrib, which opened June 1.

A Soldier from 1st BCT, 101st AD searches for a cache near LSA Anaconda. The battalion credits the success in their area to the competency of Iraqi SF and the local citizen's willingness to work with them.

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Iraqi source leads Soldiers to massive cache west of Samarra

TIKRIT - An Iraqi source-driven search in the al-Jazeera Desert west of the city of Samarra led Soldiers to an underground storage room containing thousands of pounds of weapons and munitions, June 2.
Earlier in the day, the Soldiers received info from local Iraqi SF of a large quantity of weapons and munitions located within a 40-ft. well in the desert near the city. The large room was revealed after numerous attempts to locate the cache.  After digging six feet into the ground, Soldiers noticed a large crevasse leading into the room's entrance.
"What is unique about this cache was the large amount of serviceable munitions," said Capt. Chris Barlow, 2nd Bn, 327th Inf  Regt.  "Most of our cache finds turn up old, rusted weapons and munitions, but 90-95 percent of this cache consisted of readily usable and serviceable items.  The security inside the population centers here has driven the people to offer up a wealth of intel.  You have to have the help from the local citizens to be able to locate a cache in an area as desolate as this."

Among the thousands of pounds of weapons and munitions were over 300 rockets, a sniper rifle and various machine guns.

The entrance to a 40 ft. well.

A Soldier from 2nd Bn, peeks through a crevasse searching for weapons and munitions.

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ISF, Coalition forces destroy ton of weapons

FOB KALSU - Iraqi SF and CF destroyed a large weapons cache containing approx. 2,400 pounds of munitions, May 28 in Karbala province. The cache was discovered by a former mayor of Husayniyah, who
alerted the Karbala IP. The cache buried in 11 water storage tanks and various boxes.
"It's encouraging to see the IA and IP finding and recovering these large caches, and we will continue to assist them in the safe destruction of ordnance," said 1st Lt. Ryan Fisher, 760th EOD ops officer.
The disposed munitions included more than 1,000 mortars, 25 rockets, 33 blocks of C-4 and various other weapons.

The ISF partnered up with CF to dispose of munitions.

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10th Mountain Division assumes MND-C mission

CAMP VICTORY - A bright red and white flag with the words "Climb to Glory" now flies above MND-Center HQ,
symbolizing the transfer of authority from the 3rd ID to the 10th Mtn Div., June 1.
Maj. Gen. Michael Oates, cmdr of 10th Mtn Div, pledged support to the people of Iraq, pointing out the
division is committed to sustaining the advances in security that have been made in the region.  He also said 10th Mtn Div will do all it can to help Iraq economically and politically.
"The courageous Iraqi SF will enjoy our complete support as they rid the area of the remaining extremist groups and provide the security the Iraqi people deserve," said Oates.  "We pledge to do our best to assist our partners in building on the impressive security and economic gains made by Task Force Marne.  With the cooperative attitude and true partnership of the Iraqi people, I believe we can continue to make Iraq safer so that the Iraqi people can chart their own political and economic destiny free or extremism and interference."
In his remarks, Austin applauded the many accomplishments of MND-C under the TF Marne banner.  He said over the past year the division was able to block the entry of accelerants into Baghdad, provide better security for Iraqis and slow the spread of sectarian violence.
Since March of last year, Austin pointed out MND-C turned an AQI sanctuary near Arab Jabour into "an economic hope for the region. They provided 64 microgrants to the local businesses to help them get their doors open to the public, and because of the much improved security, the division opened a community center and several schools. The division's security efforts have reduced all forms of attack by 89 percent," he added.
Meanwhile, Lynch said his Dog-Face Soldiers are thankful and proud to have served the people of Iraq, but know they leave MND - C in good hands.  "I know General Oates and the Soldiers of the 10th Mtn Div will take this mission to a higher level," said Lynch. "They are here to make a difference, and I'm sure they will."
Other division objectives include helping with economic development and governance, increasing security for the Iraqi people, and assisting with training and transitioning of Iraqi SF.

Maj. Gen. Michael Oates, cmdr., 10th Mtn Div, and Command Sgt. Maj. James Redmore, uncase the division colors during a transfer of authority ceremony.  Gen. David H. Petraeus, cmdr, MN -Iraq, and Lt. Gen. Lloyd J. Austin III, cmdr, MNC-Iraq, as well as Iraqi government officials and military leaders, were on hand to witness the ceremony.

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IPs enforce security in MND-N

An IP with the Yaychi Police Force hands candy to a child in the Yaychi Market, May 27. They conduct community patrols routinely in their communities to build relationships with local citizens and ensure the citizens are aware that IP have an established security presence in the area and are there to protect the citizens.
Interacting with the children, Iraqi's next generation of leaders, helps establish a bond between the police force and its community members.

First Lt. Matthew Martinez, plt leader, 212th MP Co, 728th Military Police Battalion, 18th MP Bde, oversees a discussion between an IP and a local vendor at the Yaychi Market, a border village near Kirkuk.

'Dragoon' plt leader, 1st Lt. Matthew Martinez, walks alongside teenagers during a community policing patrol with the IP Force.

Staff Sgt. David Ballard (left), squad leader, 212th MP Co., observes a discussion between an IP and local vendors. During the casual conversation, IP discuss conditions within the market, and security and community concerns in an effort to build trust and understanding between the citizens and police who provide security to the community.

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Dear Interested Readers,
Many successful ops, and key criminals caught; Op Charge of the Knights makes Basra safer; Iraqi Army and Coalition Forces make the city of Bukais safer; the Jamilla Market in Sadr City thriving; and IA and Iraqi NP combine efforts to make Basra safer.  Large weapons caches seized.
Joanna
________________________________

Multi-National Corps - Iraq
Public Affairs Office, Camp Victory
APO AE 09342

June 3, 2008

MND-B Soldiers capture key criminal

BAGHDAD - Soldiers from 14th Inf Regt, 25th ID, captured the #2 key criminal of the 2nd Stryker BCT, during ops in the Tarmiyahv area.
The criminal is the suspected head of an IED manufacturing and emplacing cell that operated near Taji and is responsible for the deaths of numerous Iraqi civilians and members of the Iraqi SF.  He is also linked to the bombing destruction of the Taji Bridge over the Grand Canal that killed several and wounded more Iraqi civilians. 

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Iraqi SF lead Operation Charge of the Knights in Abu Al Khasib

BASRA - Op Charge of the Knights, lead by IA Soldiers and Iraqi NP continued searching and clearing ops in Abu Al Khasib of Basra, May 31.
The National IP detained a suspect and discovered a cache of 52 AK-47 assault rifles and a sub-machine gun.
CF from the U.S. Marine Corps and UK MiTTs remain with the IA in a supporting role to enable assets, if necessary.
The op, which began March 25 in Basra, continues to bring the surrounding area to normalcy with infrastructure support missions focusing on canal clearing ops, substation repair and construction, and road repairs.

Commanders from the IA and the Iraqi NP discuss ongoing ops. The 2 services combined efforts in the latest phase to clear criminal elements from the areas around the city of Basra.

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Iraqi Army, Coalition forces conduct clearing operation

TIKRIT - Btry C, Fires Sqdrn, 2nd Stryker Cav Regt, along with Iraqi Soldiers took part in a clearing op outside of COP Zaganiyah in the densely packed palm groves, May 28.
IA Soldiers, along with members of the SoI from 3 different Iraqi towns took part in the palm grove clearing op, said Capt. Charles Knoll, Btry C. "The city of Bukais used to be an AQI stronghold in northern Iraq," said 1st Sgt. Richard Perez.  "The AQI were using their position to terrorize and intimidate the innocent people who lived in the city," said Perez.
IA, SOI and CF were able to push the AQI presence out of the city, said Knoll. The AQI took up sanctuary in the palm groves that surround the city. The thick foliage provided an ideal location for the AQI to hide weapons caches and conduct secret ops, according to Perez. 
"The Iraqis are taking the lead on this op," said Knoll. They are going to be the tip of the spear on this op. The American forces are here in a purely supportive role."
Two plts from the Fires Bde were stationed in blocking positions around the palm groves, isolating the objective, as the Iraqi forces swept through May 28, said Staff Sgt. Ronis Gutierrez, plt sgt.
In the course of the op, 3 AQI were killed, said Gutierrez. More than 46 mortars were found in various weapons caches throughout the palm grove.
"The Iraqis really took the fight to the AQI here today," said Knoll. "The IA is beginning to develop their own plans and conduct their own missions independent of CF."  According to the unit, it is a good indicator of their willingness to take on the broader responsibility of providing security for their own people.
"The IA Soldiers are very professional, and they are very eager to take their country back from the AQI and other insurgent groups," said Perez.

An IA Soldier unloads and collects mortar rounds.

Iraqi children play as Iraqi citizens pass freely outside of their homes near the palm groves. This is a sign that a basic level of normalcy is reappearing.

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Iraqi Security Forces detain 49 suspects in Hit

HIT - Iraqi SF conducted joint raids in the vicinity of Hit today detaining 49 suspects for possible connections with a deadly suicide VBIED attack near the city's govt complex Saturday evening.
Elements of the 7th IA Div, Hit IP and Provincial SF planned and executed the joint raids, which resulted in the roundup of suspects for questioning at an IP HQ in Hit.

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MND-B Soldiers detain suspected criminal

FOB FALCON -  "Raiders" Soldiers from Co C, 2nd Bn, 4th Inf Regt attached to 1st BCT, 4th ID detained a suspected criminal in the Rashid district of southern Baghdad, May 31.  He is allegedly connected with numerous murders of Iraqi citizens in 2007, weapons smuggling and other criminal activity.
"During the last 45-days, Raider Soldiers detained more than 200 criminals and seized over 100 weapons and munitions caches to reduce criminal activity in the Rashid district," said Maj. Dave Olson, 1st BCT Spokesman.

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Iraqi, MND-B Soldiers detain multiple criminal suspects, discover large cache

BAGHDAD -  May 31, at approx. 1 p.m., Soldiers from 2nd Bn 4th Inf Regt, 1st BCT, 4th ID detained a man in West Rashid who is suspected of being associated with several criminal groups.  The suspected criminal is an alleged weapons smuggler, facilitator and IED maker.
IA Soldiers with support from Soldiers of the 2nd BCT, 101st Abn Div arrested 2 men suspected for their criminal activity in the Al-Mansour district at approx. 1:20 p.m.
At approx. 1:30 p.m., Soldiers from HHC, 1st Bn, 14th Inf Regt, 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID detained 2 alleged AQI members northwest of Baghdad. 
Another suspect was detained in the Adamiyah district by Soldiers from the 108th MP Co, 18th MP Bde.  The suspected criminal is alleged to be involved in EFP attacks on CF.
At approx. 7 p.m., Soldiers from 7th Sqdrn, 10th Cav Regt, 1st BCT, 4th ID, uncovered a cache during a
weapons search op in the East Rashid District of Baghdad, consisting of 4 anti-tank grenades, 3 RPGs, 200 7.62 mm rounds, 2 107 mm rockets, a claymore mine, 13 86 mm mortars, 5 60 mm mortars and 2 57 mm surface-to-air rockets.

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ISOF capture suspected Special Groups criminal in Baghdad

BAGHDAD -  May 31, the ISOF conducted an op to capture an individual suspected of multiple indirect-fire attacks on a CF base in Abu Tshir, and of displacing Iraqi families from their homes. He also reportedly acts as a sniper for his group. 
One additional suspect was detained. 

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MNC-I CG visits Jamilla Market in Sadr City

Lt. Gen. Lloyd J. Austin III, comm. gen., MNC, talks with a local shop owner at the Jamilla Market in Sadr City May 28. When Austin visited Sadr City 3 weeks ago, the markets were empty. Now, business is thriving and the shop owners' biggest concern is not security, but electricity.

Lt. Gen. Lloyd J. Austin III looks at weapons confiscated in Sadr City.

Lt. Gen. Lloyd J. Austin III, talks with Lt. Col. Michael F. Pappal, cmdr., 1st CAB, 68th Armor, 2nd BCT, 4th ID (center) and Col. John H. Hort, cmdr, 2nd BCT, 4th ID, (right).

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Dear Interested Readers,
A significant reconciliation meeting by tribal leaders was held in the village of Ghaida.  Iraqi Army holds a recruitment drive and 3000 show up in Basra.  Many terrorists captured or killed, and large quantities of weapons caches removed from the streets.
Joanna
__________________________________

Multi-National Corps - Iraq
Public Affairs Office, Camp Victory
APO AE 09342

Jun 02, 2008

Iraqi Police find substantial weapons caches in Tikrit area

TIKRIT, Iraq -  May 29, local IPs found more than 250 rounds buried in the farmlands outside of Tikrit.  An IP, who led the search, described the ordnance as ranging in size from 57 mm to 155 mm rounds.  IP also found several RPG rounds, a propane tank and nearly 150 fuses.
Several other weapons were found in the Tikrit area in the last 72 hours including 20 120 mm projectiles, 50 60 mm projectiles, several RPG rounds and two mortar tubes.

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MND-B Soldiers discover cache, detain criminals

BAGHDAD -  Soldiers from Co A, 1st Bn, 22nd Inf Regt, 1st BCT, 4th ID detained a known criminal at 5 a.m., May 30, in West Rashid.
At approx. 6:15 a.m. May 30, Soldiers from Co C, 4th Bn, 64th Armor Regt, attached to the 1st BCT, 4th ID
discovered a weapons cache consisting of 17 120 mm mortar rounds in the Shurta neighborhood.

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National Police finds weapons, explosives cache

FOB LOYALTY - In eastern Baghdad, May 29, while patrolling the New Baghdad security district to clear the neighborhood of illegal weapons and bomb-making materials, they uncovered a cache consisting of  82 rifles, 3 pistols, 3 IEDs, an EFP, 7 RPGs and an undisclosed amount of C-4 explosive.
"The NP are conducting effective ops such as this every day," said Maj. Joey Sullinger, a spokesperson for 4th
BCT, 10th Mtn Div.

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Tribal leaders meet on the heels of major cache discovery

By Maj. Sean Wilson

KIRKUK - Arab tribal leaders conducted a significant meeting in the Ta'mim province, May 27, a day after a large weapons cache was discovered by the IA.
Tribal leaders from the Daquq district met with district council members, representatives from the Iraqi SF and CF in the village of Ghaida in the Southern Rashaad Valley.
Community issues with the local tribes were discussed.  The meeting presented the tribes with an opportunity to have their voice heard by members of the district council which is primarily composed of Kurds and Turkmen. 
The meeting comes on the heels of a major cache discovery following an IA led op, which occurred May 26. 
The IA bn acted on tips from local citizens and from the recent capture and cooperation of a suspected al-Qaeda leader known as the "Amir of Safra."  The cache was 1 of 5 caches uncovered in the area by the IA in the last 2 weeks. This cache consisted of materials used to construct IEDs; RPGs; 5 RPG launchers; 45 RPGs; 24 82 mm mortar rounds; 250 mortar fuses; 44 pounds of explosives; and 150 handsets.
"The IA's success from this mission is clearly another example of the growing capacity of the Iraqi SF to conduct independent ops and was a result of a lot of hard work from brave Iraqis," said Lt. Col. Kevin Brown, 1st BCT, 10th Mtn Div dep. cmdr.  "I am even more encouraged by the fact that these ops help set the conditions for tribal and provincial leaders to come together to help their people, who have been threatened and intimidated by a group of thugs, and terrorists who have been denying them of the peace and prosperity they deserve."

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Quick Reaction Force captures two terrorists

BALAD -  IA QRF captured 2 terrorists in an op in Nasser Wa Salaam, approx. 30 km west of Baghdad, May 30.
The QRF conducted the op to capture 2 suspected AQI weapons traffickers who have sold numerous weapons,
including sniper rifles and munitions to anti-Coalition elements in the areas of Karmah, an active AQI operating and staging area. 

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Iraqi Army recruiting in Basra

By Sgt. 1st Class C. J. Sheely

BASRA - Iraqi Soldiers looked to increase their numbers and support in Basra, May 29. The Soldiers held a recent recruiting drive in the Hayyaniyah district and more than 3,000 men came out to sign up for service with the Army.

Iraqis gathered to answer a recruiting call by the Iraqi Army.

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Iraqi Special Operations Forces capture suspected Special Groups leaders

BALAD - Iraqi SOF captured 2 suspected Special Groups cell leaders in an op in Baghdad, May 30.
The 2 are believed to be responsible for kidnapping, torture and murder.
Seven other suspected Special Groups criminals were detained.

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Hillah SWAT team captures suspected terrorist in Mosul 

BALAD -  May 29, ISWAT conducted the operation based on a warrant issued by a Mosul judge to arrest a suspected terrorist operating in the area. The suspect is reportedly responsible for kidnapping, murder of IP, and IED attacks.  Two additional suspects were detained.

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ISOF capture two suspected terrorists, detain 21

BALAD -  In Mosul, May 29, the ISOF conducted the op to capture 2 cell members for the ISI, a front organization for AQI.
The ISI cell is suspected of kidnapping, murder and attacks against Iraqi and CF.  Twenty-one other suspects were detained in the operation.

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Dear Interested Readers,
Our military soldiers in the field of medicine participate in a humanitarian op, as well as 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing collecting school supplies for needy Iraqi children. 9th grade students from Germantown HS in Wisconsin also send school supplies.  Basra is showing more signs of normalcy.  Troops assist Iraqis with drinking water and irrigation.  Marines from 3rd MAW help restore school house.  Large amounts of weapons caches removed from streets, and more criminals detained or killed.
Joanna
________________________________________




Multi-National Corps - Iraq
Public Affairs Office, Camp Victory
APO AE 09342

June 1,2008


Medics win hearts, minds through medicine

By Spc. Karla P. Rodriguez Maciel

TIKRIT -  On May 26, more than 20 U.S. Army Soldiers from FOB Sykes, in the field of medicine, teamed up with IA medics. They headed for Avgahni, a small village in the Ninewah province, to support the local
doctors during the Medical Civil Action Program.
"Our job (as doctors and medics) is to practice good medicine, and win the hearts and minds (of the local Iraqi citizens)," said Capt. David "Doc" Adam, a flight surgeon with 4th Sqdrn, 6th Air Cav out of Fort Lewis, Wash.
 In addition to their medications, every adult received a toothbrush, and every child was given a bottle of
vitamins, a toothbrush and a toy.
The IA medics took the lead throughout the day in patient care, as their MiTT medic counterpart stood by only to provide advice if needed. The only problem these medics faced was the lack of medical supplies.
The primary objectives for the MedCAP were to treat a scabies outbreak among the village children, provide general health care, offer surgical referrals to patients and make a $10,000 medication drop.
In addition to providing good health care, Adam was also looking for children candidates who were in dire need of a wheelchair. Two wheelchairs were donated that day, coming from a local Iraqi organization.  Other donations came from a variety of places.  The Ninewah Province PRT granted the meds given throughout the day and those for the medication drop. The pediatric vitamins came from all over the United States with the help of the Family Readiness Group back at Fort Lewis, Wash.
"The whole intent for these projects is to help the Iraqis take care of themselves and I have seen great improvements in that aspect," Adam said.




















More than 300 men, women and children were seen.














Capt. David "Doc" Adam, poses for a picture with 6-year-old Hannah, who is paralyzed from the waist down, partially blind and deaf. Hannah received a donated wheelchair.

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Normalcy slowly returns to Basra














Iraqis gather around a produce stand in a street market in the Hayyaniyah district of Basra, May 30. The IA and IP have been patrolling the area regularly helping to keep the streets safe and return the area to normalcy since Op Charge of the Knights restored order to the streets.

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ISOF capture four suspected Special Groups criminals in two separate ops

BALAD- Iraqi SOF captured a suspected Special Groups criminal cell leader and 3 suspected Special Groups criminal kidnappers in 2 separate ops in western Baghdad, May 28.
Six others were detained for questioning.

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National Police seize foreign-made munitions, turn over to MND-B Soldiers

BAGHDAD -  In the New Baghdad security district of eastern Baghdad, May 29, munitions seized by IP included an Iranian-made 88 mm PG-7 RPG, a Russian-made 85 mm PG-7 RPG, 2 Russian-made PG-M 70 mm RPGs, a Russian-made PG-9S 72 mm RPG, 2 Type 69 185 mm Chinese-made RPGs and various IEDs.
   
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Iraqi Army detain suspects, seize munitions in Baghdad


BAGHDAD - During ops May 30, the combined forces detained five suspects and seized various munitions.
In the Mansour district of Baghdad, IA Soldiers, after receiving a tip from a local citizen, seized a rocket and  detained 2 suspects.
In another op, Soldiers with the 1st BCT, 4th ID, detained a suspect in the West Rashid district of Baghdad. The suspected Special Groups leader is allegedly responsible for weapons trafficking, and indirect fire and EFP attacks on CF.  Soldiers also seized 16 120 mm high-explosive rounds and a 120 mm mortar round in West Rashid.
Soldiers with the 3rd BCT, 4th ID, detained 2 suspects in the Adhamiyah district of Baghdad. The 2 suspected Special Groups members are allegedly responsible for emplacing IEDs.
A local citizen turned in a variety of munitions today to Soldiers from the 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID, at JSS Tarmiya, north of Baghdad. The munitions included 3 RPGs, a 5-gallon jug of homemade explosives and
4 pieces of ordnance of unknown types.
   
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Backpacks full of hope: 3rd MAW opens Iraqi, American Friendship Project Logistics Center

By Sgt. Lukas Atwell

AL ASAD - More than 1,000 Iraqi children may soon have school supplies thanks to 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward) with the launch of the Human Unity Begins project and the grand opening of a logistics center at Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron here May 19.
The Iraqi and American Friendship Project Logistics Center will serve as the supply warehouse for HUB, a humanitarian mission which provides backpacks and school supplies to children in need.
The HUB program, started by the 3rd MAW (Fwd.) chaplains, draws inspiration from Op Backpack, an annual back-to-school program organized by Volunteers of America to provide backpacks and school supplies to children in need, according to Navy Lt. Frank Riley, a chaplain for Marine Aircraft Group 16.
"We use the acronym HUB, which is also the Arabic word for love," said Petty Officer First Class Lori Ihli, a religious programs specialist with MAG-16.  "Through this program, we will be able to provide basic school supplies to Iraqi children. We will use the friendship center as an assembly line for the project."
With the help of MAG-16 and various religious congregations in the U.S., the chaplains have collected enough supplies for 1,000 backpacks, which will be packed full of school supplies, such as paper, pencils and safety scissors, by volunteers from various commands at Al Asad Air Base.
"Our goal is to create a program that is sustainable and can be carried on for a long time," said Riley. "The idea is to help the people of Iraq strengthen their faith in their schools and their police," Riley said. "The project is about empowering the children and the community as a whole."    The initiative is also a chance for those Marines who may spend their deployment working on base, to make a difference in the lives of the Iraqi people, Riley said.
"The whole experience of being involved with the opening of the friendship center has been motivating and inspirational for me," said Lance Cpl. Joshua Wynn, a HUB volunteer and supply clerk from MALS-16. "It feels great to be a part of something that will benefit so many people and it's nice to really get this project rolling."


   











Lance Cpl. Joshua Wynn packs one of the first backpacks.

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School gets help from Soldiers, U.S. children

By Sgt. Kevin Stabinsky, 2nd BCT, 3rd ID

FOB KALSU - As if the last day of school wasn't enough to put smiles on Kutimiyah children's faces, they also received a special surprise courtesy of 3rd ID Soldiers.
On May 24, Soldiers of 1st Bn, 9th FA, delivered school supplies to the children, courtesy of Mrs. Casandra Hanson's 9th grade literature class at Germantown High School, in Germantown, Wis.
The children had been without a school for several months after it was ravaged by insurgents, said 1st Lt. Greg Highstrom, leader of 2nd Plt, Btry B. The insurgents cracked windows, damaged the building's structural integrity and destroyed most of the children's classroom supplies.
The loss of the building meant students were forced to continue their studies in a neighborhood house. Hanson, a friend of Highstrom, was in contact with him and learned of the children's predicament. "The kids are the future of Iraq," Highstrom said, adding that in order to give them the best shot at a better future, they needed some help in the present.  Hanson's class, as well as several American Legion assocs. in the area, mailed supplies for the platoon to deliver.
Although Btry B Soldiers will redeploy from the area before next school year starts, they have taken steps to ensure the upcoming year goes better than the last. To match the new school supplies, the Soldiers began working with Iraqi contractors to repair the damaged school building.  Contractors are also cleaning the building's interior of debris from IED detonations.
"We've got to give them something better," said Spc. Ian Knight. "We've got to give them a chance."













Children from Kutimiyah elementary school hold up a sign, May 24, thanking freshmen at Germantown High School for school supplies they received.




















First Lieutenant. Greg Highstrom,  gets his hands dirty May 21 while mixing cement to repair cracks in
the Kutimiyah area elementary school.

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New IP recruits begin training at Al Udaim Regional Training Center














Iraqi Police recruits in-process at the Al Udaim Regional Training Center, May 25, as they begin Basic Recruit Training.  IrP and CF train the recruits here together.  The 4-week course will culminate with a graduation and the recruits will then become known as a shurta, or policeman, and work at local IP stations in the region. The mission of the center is to train IP recruits in order to increase stability of the Iraqi SF.

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Soldiers help Iraqis with drinking water, irrigation

FOB KALSU - Iraqi farmers near Patrol Base Copper received new means to irrigate their fields and provide clean water for their families through Coalition assistance, May 25.
Soldiers with 2nd Bn, 502nd Inf Regt, distributed water pumps and filters to local sheikhs at the base,
approx. 30 km south of Baghdad. The pumps help residents use canal water to irrigate crops; the filters provide drinkable water.
"We're very thankful for the support the Americans give us," said Sheikh Nahid, with the Gourani tribe. "We haven't been able to farm our fields without water, but now we can make a living for ourselves."
The Co B Soldiers worked with Civil Affairs Team 530, which ordered the pumps and filters through an Iraqi contractor to help stimulate the local economy.
The unit, out of Fort Campbell, Ky., has been at the patrol base for seven months. Due to improved security in the area, they have been able to use their resources to help provide relief and aid through projects in conjunction with CAT 530 in recent months.


   










1st Lt Benjamin Sevald, non-lethal targeting officer with Co. B,  supervises members of the Mamouri Tribe as they load water pumps onto a truck.













Sergeant First Class Lyle Whitted, 2nd Plt. sgt. with Co. B, supervises members of the Gourani Tribe as they prepare to load water pumps onto a bongo truck.

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MND-B Soldiers kill 2 militants, seize weapons

BAGHDAD - During ops May 29-30, Soldiers from 3rd BCT, 4th ID, discovered 4 60 mm mortar rounds, a 155 mm projectile, 3 122 mm projectiles, 2 130 mm projectiles, a 107 mm rocket, a 120 mm
projectile and a 105 mm projectile, at approx. 3 p.m. north of Baghdad.
Soldiers from 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID seized 3 Katusha rockets; 5 50 mm mortar rounds; 1,000 dishka rounds; 2 RPGs; and 1,000 7.62mm rounds at approx. 5:50 p.m. northwest of Baghdad.
In the Amin area of New Baghdad, an AWT observed criminals digging a hole that had been started the previous night. The hole was at the location where a previous IED had been emplaced. The criminals were also observed digging a trench, which is commonly used to lay a command detonation wire.  At approx. 12:50 a.m. May 30, the AWT fired 3 hellfire missiles and killed 2 criminals.
   
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3rd MAW helps local village restore schoolhouse

By Sgt. Lukas Atwell

AL ANBAR PROVINCE - Marines from 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward) recently assisted in the reconstruction of a local school. 
The project benefits the community and their children by providing essential electrical power, school supplies and also a clean drinking-water supply.
"Regimental Combat Team 2 identified the need for improvements in the area nearly a year ago," said Maj. Kevin Bright, the ops officer of Marine Wing Support Group 37. "The resources were not available at the time, but now that we have them, we are making good on our promise to help this community."
"I am extremely pleased to see the improvements made at the school," said Warrant Officer Emile Peterson, a security forces platoon cmdr for MWSS-274. "The renovations gave the villagers hope and my Marines were proud to be a part of the project because they got a chance to see the positive effect that we are having in the region."
The schoolhouse has potential to be more than just a place for education according to Bright. The school will also bring the community together.  A room in that school may become a town hall and another may become the village clinic.


    









Oras Shokre, a local contractor hired to perform the renovation of a local schoolhouse, shows Maj. Michael Mori, staff judge advocate and project purchasing officer, one of the school's new blackboards, earlier this month. Though the project is not complete, the villagers are already using the school's resources to teach arithmetic to the children.














Local children gather outside their classroom earlier this month to greet Marines, as they visit the school to perform an inspection of the progress of the school's improvements. The children were attending math class in a freshly painted, air-conditioned classroom before the Marines arrived today.

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Balad reconciliation yielding weapons caches, unity

TIKRIT -, More than 300 fighters in the Balad area have reconciled with the GoI by surrendering to the Joint Coordination Center since May 22.
Op Balad Musalahah is a combined effort between the Qadah-level GoI, the leadership of the IP, the
4th IA Div, and the 1st Sqdrn, 32nd Cav Regt, 1st BCT, 101st Abn Div.
"Former fighters in the Balad Qadah have stepped forward to reconcile with their fellow countrymen, and 76 of them have been given court dates to appear before an Iraqi judge," said Lt. Col. Bob McCarthy, 1st Sqdrn, cmdr.  "This is a key step in reestablishing their ties to the communities, rejoining their families in their homes and becoming active participants in Iraq's future."
"The cooperation and trust being generated by the reconciliation between former fighters, Iraqi SF and the
local govt is having a dramatic impact on security in the Balad area," said Lt. Col. Thomas Hauerwas, 1st BCT EO. "This is seen in the increase of weapons discovered and decrease in enemy attacks."
"The reconciliation process is a great start for those who have been reluctant to approach Coalition and Iraqi SF and have been increasingly isolated from Iraqi society," said Maj. Ramiro Salazar, ops officer for the 1st Sqdrn.

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