TROOP SCOOP

Dear Interested Reader,
Our troops are most enthusiastic over a food stand that provides soldiers with a taste of Iraq at COP Apache.  IA dentists partner with Marines and Sailors for the first cooperative dental engagement.  Ramadi welcomes a brand new municipal building, as security strengthens.  Iraqis take pride in constructing a drainage system for the Mudiq Medical Clinic, with Marines help.  Special Group criminals captured, and weapons caches seized.
Joanna
______________________________

Aug. 31, 2008

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

Food Stand Provides Soldiers Taste of Iraq at COP Apache       

Story and photo by Sgt. Philip Klein

Ronnie (left) and his cousin Kirk, chat with a guest at their falafel stand, Aug 26, 2008. They opened the stand to accommodate some Soldiers' desire to eat Iraqi food.

COP APACHE — Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers operating out of COP Apache now have another choice for meals in addition to the dining facility: The Falafel King.  Ronnie, an Iraqi citizen who operates the small stand outside of the gym at this base in northern Baghdad, got the idea after being approached by Soldiers interested in eating Iraqi food.  “They would always ask me, or other Iraqis working here, if they would go out to the city and buy food to prepare traditional Iraqi meals,” said Ronnie. “My uncle is a translator, so we contacted a few people to see what kind of set up we would need, what equipment and things like that, and we got started.”
Ronnie, who runs the stand with his cousin, Kirk, serves basic staples of Iraqi food, like falafels and kabobs, but has also expanded the menu to include American favorites, such as cheeseburgers and french fries.
“Business is good; we have been set up since, Aug. 11, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner.  However, since we are always here, we also feed Soldiers when they come back from a mission and might have missed meal time. Instead of eating a Meal Ready to Eat, we will cook up something for them,” said Ronnie.
Another positive result of the Falafel King is that it allows Soldiers to relax after a mission. It also provides the Soldiers the opportunity to spend time with local citizens and make new friends over a cup of chai. “For an Iraqi, if you sit down to talk, it is always done over a cup of chai, so we do the same here with our American friends,” said Ronnie.
For Staff Sgt. Jimmy Martinez, a section leader with Co A, 1st CAB, 68th Armor Regt, 3rd BCT, 4th ID, the Falafel King offers a break from the typical lunch time meals.  “Usually lunch here is just self-serve sandwiches, but coming here breaks up the monotony of meal times; and whether I eat a falafel or have a burger and fries, it’s nice to have an option for something different,” said Martinez.
Ronnie said he is happy that the Soldiers seem to enjoy the opportunity to try a different venue for their chow and relaxation, adding that he also hopes that he can eventually use his new experience to springboard into something even more significant.
“I hope that one day I can go to America and open a restaurant that serves both Iraqi and American meals, and then I can serve customers both genuine Iraqi food and American food and, through food, bring our two cultures closer together,” Ronnie said.

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IA partners with Marines, Sailors for first cooperative dental engagement

KABANI - Citizens of Kabani were treated to the first cooperative dental engagement hosted by the IA and the 1st Marine Logistics Group in Kabani, Aug. 29.  Both Navy and IA dentists combined forces to treat more than 100 children and adults from the village.
The relationship Marines share with the villagers keeps coalition forces coming back to continue their support.  Each time, more and more assistance is provided by the IA, who now handles most of the
security and screening of the events.  With the addition of IA 2nd Lt. Ali, a dentist, their presence and assistance to the villagers is more noticeable.
The dentists examined patients all morning, pointing out cavities and other problems as well as teaching good dental hygiene. Floss, tooth paste, brushes and other supplies were on hand to distribute to the villagers.
With successful ops like the first CDE, it's only a matter of time before the Iraqis are in complete control of caring for their own.

HM3 Genevieve T. Narkis assists IA 2nd Lt. Ashraf Ali.  Narkis, a 28-year-old, said she was glad to assist the Iraqi dentist with his examinations. "It's a good way to show them what we know works well and I hope it works well for them."  She was also impressed with the relationship the villagers share with the Marines.  "We'd open the door and kids are running around saying 'hello.'  It's a good feeling."
(Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Tyler B. Barstow)

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Ramadi Welcomes New, Symbolic Municipal Building      

Mahmoud Marre (left), a local Iraqi contractor, and Chief Warrant Officer 2 Eric Jett, a team leader with 1st Bn, 9th Marine Regt, RCT 1, look over the newly-reconstructed 17th Street Municipal Building in Ramadi, June 22, 2008.

Story and photo by Lance Cpl. Casey Jones

RAMADI — Citizens here, along with city and provincial leaders, came together to take part in the grand opening of the 17th Street Municipal Building, Aug. 24.
The municipal building, also known as the “Red Building” by the locals because of its distinctive color, will serve as the local govt’s city hall. The building will be occupied by the mayor, city council members, and other elected and appointed city officials.
“The building is symbolic,” said CWO 2 Eric Jett.   “It’s a landmark; a keystone building in the center of Ramadi. It symbolizes to the locals that their govt is back on its feet.”  The structure was severely damaged during fighting early in the war and needed extensive repairs to refurbish it.  It was often used as a launching pad for attacks by insurgents.
“The building was hit by almost every type of munitions known to CF,” said Capt. Angel Torres, the comm. officer of Civil Affairs Detachment 2. “It was just a frame with a big hole in the middle of it.”
With the security gains in the region, the Iraqi people have embraced peace and have begun reconstructing their city.  According to Obaid, the grand opening of the municipal building was a visible testament to the tireless efforts of the people of Ramadi and CF.

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Iraqis Construct Drainage System for Mudiq Medical Clinic     

Story and photo by Lance Cpl. Scott Schmidt

Citizens of Habbaniyah came together recently to improve a local clinic by constructing a drainage system, which will help with stagnate water that was collecting between the road and the Mudiq clinic.

HABBANIYAH — With violence in the region down nearly 80% from pre-surge levels in many areas, Iraqi citizens have begun focusing on economic development and essential services.
Two cement drains were built on both ends of a sloped section of ground directly in front of the clinic, forcing the water flow away from the entrance and into collection points.  The need for such a project was brought to the attention of Marines with Co C, 1st Bn, 2nd Marine Regt, RCT 1, during meetings with the city council, community and IP.
Marines assisted the community in setting up a work force of Iraqis to plan and execute the construction of the sewage-like drainage system.  “It is important to help give the Iraqi people an opportunity to better their community,” said Pfc. Joseph Blei, a 20-year-old team leader with Co C.  “When they do projects like this it gives them a sense of pride knowing it was their planning that went into it,” he said.
Cooperation has become a trend in the relationship between CF and Iraqi citizens.  Frequently, tribal differences are remedied by a common goal to bring advancements to a community for the betterment of its people. “You can see through the community’s hard work that progress is being made,” explained Blei. “It’s a big improvement from last year. There [is more] cooperation between tribes.”
“By working with the community we establish a rapport that increases operational success,” said Lance Cpl. Alan McAlister, a team leader with the co.

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MND-B Soldiers detain suspected SG members

FOB FALCON - Soldiers from Co D, 1st Bn, 22nd Inf Regt, 1st BCT, 4th ID, arrested a suspected
Special Group criminal (SGC) member in the Abu T'shir community of the Rashid district in southeastern Baghdad at approx. 11:15 p.m., Aug. 29. The individual is wanted for committing acts of sectarian violence against Iraqis and conducting an IED attack against CF.
Soldiers from the HHC, 1st Bn., 22nd Inf. Regt., 1st BCT, 4th ID, conducted a targeted raid and captured a suspected criminal in the Rashid district's Aamel community at approx. 12:15 a.m., Aug. 30.
"These Soldiers and Iraqi SF aggressively work in support of Op Ironhorse Blizzard to deny sanctuary to SG members.  We remain committed to ensuring that the Iraqi justice system is served," said Maj. Dave Olson, 1st BCT spokesperson, 4th ID.

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Tip leads MND-B Soldiers, ISF to weapons caches

FOB FALCON -  Aug. 29, A concerned Iraqi citizen called Soldiers from Troop C, 7th Sqdrn, 10th Cav Regt, 1st BCT, 4th ID, to turn over possible bomb-making materials, consisting of bottles of liquid and a timing device to a COP.  A coalition explosives ordnance team later confirmed that the box of assorted materials, which included acetone, were possible precursors to an IED attack.
Iraqi NP, acting on a tip from a local Iraqi citizen in the Bayaa community, seized a weapons cache of 2 mortar tubes, 8 120mm mortar rounds, 2 hand-held radios, 2 homemade IEDs, 3  EFP IEDs, one dual-array EFP, a block of TNT explosives, 3 rolls of copper wire and 200 rounds of 7.62mm ammo. They also discovered 3 flash cameras, miscellaneous wires and IED-making materials at the site.

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Adhamiyah Angels

Three girls try to control their excitement during an aid drop to the people of the industrial zone in Adhamiyah,  Aug. 25, 2008.  While U.S. Soldiers provide security, the IA distributed 400 food packs, 200 backpacks, 200 soccer balls and 200 pencil sets.
Photo by Sgt. Philip Klein, 3rd BCT, 4th ID

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Dear Interested Reader,
We have a plethora of stories such as a law inforcement professional working with a Marine unit, while a medical team setting up a forward aid station demonstrates its excellence.  More than 11,000 male detainees have been released from Camp Cropper, in a most successful program, and Iraqi NP graduate from a  specialized Carabinieri training, led by Italian soldiers.  Will our media cover over 200 service members receiving their U.S. citizenship at a naturalization ceremony? 
Joanna
______________________________

Aug. 30, 2008

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

Professional Works Together to Prosecute Criminals     

Story and photo by Cpl. Erik Villagran

Roger Parrino, a law enforcement professional (LEP) with 3rd Bn, questions an Iraqi, Aug. 20, 2008, in Hit about an incident that occurred in the area.

HIT — Marines with 3rd Bn, 4th Marine Regt, RCT 5 and the bn’s law enforcement professional is working closely to prosecute criminals in Iraq.  Roger Parrino serves as the criminal investigator for the bn and uses his background in law enforcement to assist CF.  His 21 years in the New York Police Dept. helped him prepare for the job.  He retired as the comm. officer of the Manhattan North Homicide Squad.
Prior to the bn’s combat deployment, Parrino joined the unit in September 2007 and assisted the Marines by giving classes on sensitive-site exploitation, tactical questioning, rule of law, detainee handling and patrol observations.
“When we take the LEP out, he teaches us questioning techniques and how to read people’s body language to see if they’re being forthright,” said Sgt. Jay J. Richardson, a section leader with 3rd Bn.
He has spent the deployment assisting 3rd Bn., by questioning Iraqi locals about shootings in town, building evidence against insurgents and appearing in Iraqi courts to testify. He’s also been mentoring the National Intelligence and Investigation Agency, which is similar to the FBI. “The [LEP] program was designed to bring someone in from law enforcement to help in the counter insurgency environment,” said Parrino.
“He does his job and approaches it differently than we do,” said Sgt. Josh W. Huskey, a plt sgt. “The biggest difference between us is the way he handles sensitive-site exploitation and tactical questioning. The questions we don’t have, he does.”
Marines have not only noticed his abilities, they’ve also seen the thoroughness that goes into Parrino’s investigations, and they like it.  “You see him still conducting his investigations 3 months after an incident occurred,” Huskey said.  “Last deployment, if you didn’t find the guy in 3 or 4 days, you’d move on.”
“The highlight of the deployment has been when I’m out on patrol and seeing small-unit leaders performing things the way I instructed,” Parrino said. “It has been worthwhile, and I would like to do it again.”

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Combat Medicine at Its Finest     

By Dr. (Capt.) Joseph May

Medics from the 2nd BCT, 1st Armored Div erected a forward aid station in the Diyala province.

Photo by Capt. Joseph May.

FOB HAMMER — During a recent air assault op in the Diyala province, the 2nd Bde, 1st Armored Div medical team once again demonstrated its excellence.  The group, which consisted of a physician, 3 physician assts, a mental health provider, a preventive medicine officer and numerous skilled combat medics, delivered seamless and exceptional medical care, despite harsh conditions.
Several of the team members flew by helicopter, carrying everything needed to set up a rapid aid station with them. A rapid aid station is able to provide immediate treatment for any injuries sustained during the early phase of an op.
The remaining members of the medical team moved by ground convoy bringing with them the infrastructure required to establish a robust treatment facility in the middle of an isolated desert.  The facility included X-ray capabilities, a limited lab, routine and sick call care and trauma and critical care resuscitation.
The Iron Bde medics also conducted several cooperative medical engagements within the local community, helping to treat more than 125 Iraqi civilians - most of them children.  For many in this area, this was the first face-to-face encounter with CF.  Local citizens were hesitant at first.  However, the efforts to improve their health and families were evident, and the Iraqi people came to express great gratitude toward the team.

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MND-B Soldiers capture suspect SGC

FOB FALCON - Aug. 28, in the Rashid district of southern Baghdad, at approx. 10 p.m., Soldiers from HHC, 1st Bn, 22nd Inf Regt, 1st BCT, 4th ID, detained 3 suspected Special Groups criminals (SGCs), during an op based on military intel in the Aamel community.

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MEDIA ADVISORY: More than 200 service members to obtain U.S. citizenship at naturalization ceremony

WHO:       All media
WHAT:  Naturalization ceremony
WHEN:  Sept. 1 .at 4 p.m.
WHERE: Al Faw Palace, Camp Victory
WHY:    More than 200 service members are scheduled to obtain their U.S. citizenship, including an Iraqi citizen who is currently serving as a U.S. Soldier here. The candidates for citizenship represent 54 countries with the largest number being from Mexico.  In 2004, President Bush signed an Executive Order allowing all active-duty immigrants in the Armed Forces to apply for U.S. citizenship without waiting the standard three years and without physically being present in the United States in order to apply.

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MULTI-NATIONAL FORCE-IRAQ
TF 134 PAO
BAGHDAD, IRAQ

More than 11,000 Men Released from Coalition Detainee Ops (Camp Cropper)       

CAMP CROPPER – CF have released more than 11,000 men back to their families and communities.  These men, once considered a security threat to Iraqi civilians, as well as Coalition and Iraqi forces, have completed their internment and can go on to lead productive lives.
The release of 11,000 detainees thus far in 2008 surpasses the 8,900 men released in all of 2007.  “With the current release tempo, the goal of more than 12,000 releases for 2008 will be reached by mid September,” said Maj Neal Fisher, spokesman for Task Force 134 – Detainee Ops.
During their internment, detainees are given the opportunity to participate in various educational and vocational programs, on a voluntary basis.  These programs are designed to give detainees the skills needed to become productive members of Iraqi society.  Education classes include basic reading and writing in Arabic and English, mathematics, and civics.  In addition to basic education, Islamic discussion classes are available.  These classes are led by Iraqi social workers and clerics and focus detainees on developing a better understanding of Islam and the teachings of the Koran.
Vocational courses, such as woodworking, carpentry and brick masonry are offered to provide detainees a skill set they can use upon their release.  The skills these men obtain will be used to support and provide for their families as well as help build a stronger Iraq.
 “With a re-internment rate of less than 1%, it’s a testament to the success of these programs,” said Fisher.  “These men, for whatever reason, engaged in activities that were meant to harm Coalition and Iraqi forces, Iraqi civilians and the rebuilding of Iraq.  Now, a large number of these men are returning home educated, and skilled, ready to assist in the rebuilding of a better, stronger, and stable Iraq.”

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Multi-National Security Transition Command – Iraq
Public Affairs Office, Phoenix Base
APO AE 09348

Iraqi National Police graduate Carabinieri training (Baghdad)       

Baghdad – Members of the Iraqi NP graduated from the specialized Carabinieri training, led by the Italian Police, August 28, at Camp Dublin in Baghdad. Graduates marched before a stand filled with dignitaries in the late morning heat and performed demonstrations of skills they learned in the 8-week course.
More than 400 Iraqi NP completed this session, bringing the total Iraqi NP graduates of the course to 2,013 since last November when the courses started here. The Ministry of the Interior plans to increase the size of the course to 900 students per class by November, 2008.
“We of the NP feel proud and strong from the support we have been given,” said Lt. Gen. Awadi, cmdr. of the Iraqi NP. “We have grown by forming a bridge of security in every province.”
The training is part of Iraqi Minister of Interior Bulani and IP Lt. Gen. Awadi’s program of continuous improvement of the NP.  The training aims to the make the NP a better skilled, better led and a more responsive and caring force.
Lt. Gen. Frank Helmick, comm. gen. of the Multi National Security Transition  Command – Iraq  and NATO Training Mission – Iraq, spoke as well, saying, “This is not an ethnic force, religious force or sectarian force. This is a security force made up of Iraqis for all Iraqis.”
The ceremony concluded with dignitaries honoring fallen members of the Iraqi NP by placing flowers at a memorial dedicated to those officers killed in the line of duty.

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Hole in One

 

Sgt. 1st Class Keith Barkley takes a practice golf swing as Golf professional Jill McGill looks on at Camp Taji, Aug. 27, 2008.
Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Brent Hunt, CAB, 4th ID

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Dear Interested Reader,
Two schools open in time for the children to begin the school year in She Shon.  It's nice to see stories of Iraqis taking the lead, as in supporting the Sadr City Medical Clinic, and building a medical facility in Araifiya.  There's a most interesting story on the Interior Ministry holding its first conference on forensics.  An AQI bombing facilitator was killed, and weapons and munitions seized throughout Baghdad.  Pictures of Iraqi female police trainees are always captivating and inspiring.
Joanna
_______________________________

Aug. 29, 2008

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

Schools Open for Children in She Shon       

By Pfc. Michael Schuch

Capt. Sean Nolan and a soon-to-be student of the newly-refurbished primary school in Jisr Diyala, await cookies and cake during the school's ribbon-cutting ceremony, Aug. 21, 2008.
Photo by Pfc. Michael Schuch

COP CASCHE SOUTH — A kindergarten and primary school opened in the She Shon area.  Soldiers from the 415th CAB helped local contractors renovate 2 schools in She Shon to ensure the children of the area have the opportunity to receive a formal education.
"We are very thankful this project is now complete," said Fatema Rhady, the headmistress of the kindergarten.  The school repairs took 6 weeks to complete. A local Iraqi contractor hired skilled citizens from surrounding towns to perform the work. This helped create jobs and increase the flow of money for the small urban village.  The school received new doors, windows, paint and remodeled bathrooms. The school boasts the only playground in the area, in addition to the numerous classrooms.
Following the Kindergarten’s opening, Soldiers from 415th CAB made the local primary school their next stop. The Maka al Mukarama Primary School, run by headmaster Mahamed Hussein, received fresh paint, new doors and windows, remodeled bathrooms and minor structural repairs.  This 2-story school boasts nearly 2 dozen classrooms and offices, a large courtyard and a court with soccer nets and basketball hoops.

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Iraqi Army Takes Lead to Support Sadr City Medical Clinic     

Patients at the 2nd Health Clinic in Baghdad’s Sadr City district walk past IA Soldiers, Aug. 20, 2008, providing security during a combined medical engagement conducted with MND - Baghdad Soldiers.

U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Philip Klein.

BAGHDAD —  The IA took the lead to provide supplies as well as additional medical attention to the surrounding community, putting an Iraqi face on the op. "We are just glad to be able to help and let the IA take the lead with the combined medical engagement," said Army Capt. Andrew Slack.  "Hopefully, every clinic in Thawra 1 will get repeated visits from the IA as they are operating with more independence every day."
The clinic administrator and staff welcomed the visit and were glad for the additional medical support and supplies.  "We are grateful for the efforts of the IA and friendly forces. The supplies they have brought will be put to good use of the people of our neighborhood," said Dr. Thaer, the 2nd Health Clinic senior administrator.

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Interior Ministry holds first conference on forensics       

Baghdad – With growing use of forensics in Iraq, scientists in Iraq are helping police make discoveries that solve crimes.  The accomplishments and plans in this area were discussed August 27 at the First Conference on Forensic Sciences held by the Ministry of Interior.
“This is a noble cause,” said Iraqi Interior Minister Bulani, “to make sure we have justice. We are trying to build a country built on the constitution and all of these efforts by our expert investigators will help the police to establish the truth and uphold the Rule of Law.”
Bulani said the IP must take advantage of our experts in the Criminal Evidence Directorate and learn important steps from them that will help solve crimes. He said eventually all joint ops with the IA would end in the Provinces and the IP “would be the only one in charge of all internal security in the country.”  He said, thus training, professional development and new technology is important to the IP force.
British Brigadier Mark Castle, dir. of the Ministry of Interior Transition Team, said “This conference highlights the important gains the Ministry of Interior has made in forensics in the past few years. We foresee even more progress in the future and look forward to partnering with the Iraqis to foster this advancement.”
At the conference, led by Dep. Minister Ayden, director of Police Affairs, the focus was on crime scene ID, management of the crime scene, and the Automated Fingerprint ID System as well as an overview of the Criminal Evidence Directorate.
The AFIS system has helped solve crimes some more than two years old by identifying a fingerprint. A positive ID or match was made within 24 hours after the fingerprints were entered into the system. They matched the fingerprints found at a bomb scene in 2005 and the suspect was arrested.
The AFIS system started with zero data base in 2003 and now has a data base with more than 1 million fingerprints. The AFIS system is also used in processing ID cards.  Eventually all GOI employees will have their fingerprints in the system.
The U.S. and British have set up a National Forensics Training Institute in Baghdad and another training facility in Arbil for training Iraqi scientists in forensics. These scientists will then train others throughout Iraq. There are plans to have a total of 7 forensics centers or labs located throughout the country.
The course of instruction will include document comparison, ballistic analysis, fingerprinting and finding latent finger prints, and chemistry, toxicology and biology analysis that includes DNA.

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(This was the story that was lost, but MNF very nicely retrieved it for me, and for you to enjoy.)

Medical Clinic Nears Completion in Araifiya

By Pfc. Michael Schuch

COP CASHE SOUTH — Khalaf Assad, a local Iraqi contractor, spent more than one month building a new primary care medical clinic in the small area of Araifiya.  The work began on little more than a piece of property, but Assad's vision drove him to continue. This clinic, with its prime location within the local village, will provide an immense boost to the health care system of the area. The surrounding area has several medical clinics, but only one is fully operational.
Assad employed local citizens with specialized skills to assist him with the project. "I wanted to create jobs for my people," Assad said. "I wanted to make sure there was money flowing into my village, to help our economy."
The new medical center boasts solid marble floors, new electrical wiring, a full-scale fire alarm system with siren, a/c, 2 fully-operational bathrooms, 4 offices, treatment rooms and a large lobby. The outside of the facility displays tall, brightly-painted cement pillars, a concrete gate surrounding the structure, and a beautiful view of the flourishing fields and village in the distance.
"Working on this project is a dream-come-true for us," Assad said. "This clinic will help improve the health and lives of over 2,000 people in the area."

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MULTI-NATIONAL FORCE-IRAQ
PRESS DESK
BAGHDAD, Iraq

Al-Qaeda bombing facilitator killed (Baghdad)     

BAGHDAD – CF killed a terrorist in Tikrit during a daytime op August 28, targeting associates of al-Qaeda leaders in central Iraq.
CF targeted a facilitator involved with providing bomb triggers for several attack cells in the Tigris River Valley bombing network.  As they attempted to apprehend the wanted terrorist, the man rushed toward the security element and grabbed one soldier’s rifle.  Responding to the hostile threat, CF engaged and killed the man.

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ISF seize weapons caches throughout Baghdad

BAGHDAD - Aug. 28, IA Soldiers and NP seized numerous weapons during 2 search ops. The munitions included 100 AK 47's, 4 Seminov rifles, an SKS rifle and 4 pistols, 3 RPG warheads, 5 107 mm rockets and 2 122 mm mortar rounds.

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Training Days

Iraqi female trainees practice handcuffing procedures at the Kirkuk Iraqi Police Academy, Aug. 26, 2008.
Photo by Staff Sgt. Ave Pele-Sizelove

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Climbing High

Pvt. John Hill, A Co., 44th Expeditionary Signal Bn, climbs the training tower on Camp Victory for a familiarization climb, Aug. 23, 2008, while his supervisor Sgt. Joseph Raymond Chavis, C Co., waits above.

Photo by Spc. Evan Marcy

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Dear Interested Reader,
Many positive stories showing progress in Iraq.  Small businesses are receiving microgrants in Sha'ab, while Camp Taji celebrates  the progress of IA maintenance soldiers.  A Conference of IA leaders and leaders from Task Force Mtn. focuses on future of Iraqi Security Forces.  A Special Groups' leader detained, while AQI terrorists captured or killed.  Grand Canal upgrades improves traffic flow. 
Joanna
_______________________________________

Aug. 28, 2008

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

Soldiers Offer Microgrants, Security While Patrolling Streets of Sha’ab       

By Sgt. Zach Mott

Sgt. 1st Class Jason Maynard shakes hands with a shop worker during a patrol in the Sha'ab neighborhood of northern Baghdad, Aug. 24, 2008.

Photo by Sgt. Zachary Mott.

BAGHDAD — He sees a lot of potential in northern Baghdad.  During a routine patrol around the area, he points to several areas that need improvements – a park here, a new store sign there; even SoI checkpoints are on his radar for upgrading.
“(We’re) showing the people that we care about them. We care about the future and trying to put money into the environment – treating them with dignity and respect – trying to get them out of their homes into a safe, secure environment so they feel comfortable with us,” said Sgt. 1st Class Jason Maynard. “Once we do that, they can start living normal lives.”
As the patrol drove around the Sha’ab neighborhood that surrounds FOB Callahan, Maynard pointed to the areas that he sees room for improvement as well as those that have improved in his 3 weeks here.  In the 8 months prior to arriving at FOB Callahan, Maynard and the other members of 3rd BCT, 4th ID, were responsible for entry control points in Baghdad’s International Zone.
After an abbreviated relief-in-place of the counter improvised-rocket assisted mortar patrol mission from a 4th ID Scout/Sniper Platoon, Maynard and his Soldiers hit the ground running – and with microgrant applications in hand.  In slightly more than 3 weeks, Maynard has processed nearly 30 applications, which he hopes will help to revitalize the small businesses off the heavily traveled roads here. Four previously submitted grants have been approved in that time, and shop owners were quick to put that money to use. “They’ve already put up signs, got generators to help equip themselves. They’ve already hired local people to help them run their shops,” said Maynard, who serves as a plt sgt. “That’s been the biggest improvement so far.”
In addition to microgrant applications, the Soldiers usually come armed with school supplies, stuffed animals, soccer balls and anything else that might serve useful to the residents.
“There’s lots of interaction (here). There’s not a day that goes by that we don’t have kids swarming us,” said Sgt. James Cook, MND-B.

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Taji Level III Wheeled Vehicle Maintenance Facility celebrates early progress

CAMP TAJI - IA maintenance soldiers were honored for their recent achievements and progress during a ceremony at the Taji Level III Wheeled Vehicle Maintenance Facility in Taji, Aug. 26.
The ceremony highlighted the Iraqi's ability to do Level III maintenance, repairing 150 wheeled vehicles and 25 tracked vehicles since the IA took over the facility, June 1.
"This (the repaired vehicles) averages out to about twenty vehicles a week which is great," said Capt.
Brig. Gen. Muniem, the electrical and mechanical engineering officer, the key note speaker for the event, praised the hard work of the officers and soldiers of the Level III facility.  "We have done a great job fixing a lot of vehicles during this campaign, so congratulations," said Muniem. "They are very professional and work very hard to support the IA and our country."
In April, a small group of officers and Soldiers of the 1st Sustainment Bde started working with their Iraqi counterparts.  "It's exciting. This represents change for the IA," said Chief Warrant Officer Keith Hammitt, the maintenance advisor to Col. Mohommad.  "This is a result of their hard work and sacrifice."

Gen. Abadi, the IA dep. chief of staff, congratulates a soldier as he walked the line of nearly 130 wheeled vehicles and 20 track vehicles.
(Army Photo by Staff Sgt Brant Maude)

Brig. Gen. Muniem gives Staff Gen. Nasier Abadi a tour of vehicle parts on display.

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Conference Focuses on Future of ISF       

By Sgt. David Turner

Maj. Gen. Ali, cmdr. of the 17th IA Div (bottom right), meets with leaders from Task Force Mtn, MNC - Iraq and IA leaders for a conference to discuss the future of Iraqi SF at Camp Victory, Aug. 20, 2008.Photo by Sgt. David Turner.

BAGHDAD — "What we are trying to do is identify force generation needs. We are looking at the way ahead," said Capt. Steven Chadwick, an ISF coordinator with 10th Mtn Div.  The conference focused on manning, equipping and training the ISF to be a more effective and self-sustaining force.  "We already know where we are going to be in 6 months. We are looking 2 years-plus, trying to figure out what we see the IA looking like, what challenges we are going to encounter in getting to that end state," said Chadwick.
As insurgent attacks have slowed dramatically in the past 10 months, new IA units have stood up at a rapid pace. The coalition troop surge gave the ISF a chance to accelerate their growth, said Lt. Gen. Frank Helmick, cmdr. of Multi-National Security Transition Corp - Iraq.
New equipment is also being fielded to IA units in an effort to modernize the force. IA units are now receiving M-16 rifles, up-armored Humvees and sophisticated radios to perform their missions. A whole new generation of military equipment is being purchased by the IA, including helicopters, tanks and equipment to defeat IEDs.
With new equipment comes specialized training. A new program called warfighter training is giving IA bns the chance to conduct exercises that develop team and leadership skills while units gain proficiency with new vehicles and weapons.  Soldiers also learn counterinsurgency and other training not necessarily provided by MiTTs.
"Our role is shifting. As the Iraqis get increasingly better at controlling their battlespace ... we are shifting less from advising on ops, intel and fires, where they are not only competent but they are 4 or 5 times better than the bad guys -- and we are helping them more on logistics," said Col. Timothy Deady, whose team works with the 8th IA Div.
Helmick said, "The end goal is for them to increase their security capability and for us to decrease our presence.  We know we're not where we need to be; we know we're not where we want to be, but thank goodness we're not where we used to be."

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MND-B Soldiers find weapons cache in southwestern Baghdad

FOB FALCON - Aug. 26, at approx. 8 p.m., engineer Soldiers of Co E, 1st Bn, 22nd Inf Regt, 1st BCT, 4th ID, reported finding 100 blasting caps, 20 RPGs, 2 120 mm mortar rounds, a 60 mm mortar round, 2 anti-tank rounds and 35 parachute grenades in the Shurta community.
An EOD team was called in to remove the munitions suspected to be used as IED-making materials.

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MULTI-NATIONAL FORCE-IRAQ
PRESS DESK
BAGHDAD, Iraq

Coalition forces capture senior Special Groups leader at BIAP       

BAGHDAD – August 27, Intel sources report that the captured man is part of the most senior social and operational circles of Special Groups.  Most notably, he is believed to be responsible for the planning of the June 24, 2008 bombing of the Sadr City District Advisory Council meeting, where 6 Iraqis, 2 U.S. State Dept employees and 2 U.S. service members were killed. Ten other Iraqis were wounded in the blast. The man has been known to travel in and out of Iraq to neighboring nations including Iran and Lebanon, where it is believed he meets and helps run the Iranian-backed Special Groups in Iraq.
In order to maintain the safety and security of the passengers and patrons of the airport, CFs waited for the wanted man’s plane to land, and in cooperation with airport authorities, detained the man without incident.

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MULTI-NATIONAL FORCE-IRAQ
PRESS DESK
BAGHDAD, Iraq

Terrorists with suicide vests killed, alleged attack cell leader detained (Baghdad)       

BAGHDAD – CF killed 3 terrorists – 2 of whom were wearing suicide vests – and detained 6 suspects, including an alleged AQI leader, during ops in Diyala province, August 27.
CF targeted regional terrorist leaders near Jalula, about 125 km northeast of Baghdad who are believed to have close ties to AQI senior leaders. When forces arrived, several men ran from the target building and hid in nearby fields. CF repeatedly called out for the terrorists to surrender and fired warning shots, but the terrorists refused to comply. CF, who found bomb-making materials and weapons in the target building, perceived hostile intent from the terrorists and engaged them, killing 2. One man who survived the engagement detonated his own suicide vest as a CF element approached him, killing only himself. One dead terrorist was also wearing a suicide vest that did not detonate, while the other was armed and wearing a military-style assault vest and ammo. CF called for supporting aircraft, which destroyed the explosives in the target building and the suicide vest.
Also in Diyala, CF captured an alleged AQI leader who, according to detainees already in custody, is responsible for bombing attacks and assassinations in the Hawijah area.  Five additional suspected terrorists were detained in the op near Tuz Khurmartu, about 70 km south of Kirkuk.

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Grand Canal Upgrades Ease Traffic Flow     

By 1st Lt. Jane Capra

After 12 hours of steady work, the sun rises over the newly completed canal bridge bypass. With jersey barriers emplaced on the side of the road, 3 Soldiers from the 46th Engr Combat Bn ground guide a smooth roller operator as he applies the final touches in making sure the new road can support heavy civilian traffic.
Photo by 2nd Lt. Janeene Yarber

CAMP TAJI — The scene replayed every few minutes, frustrating military and civilian drivers alike near the city of Taji. A steep slope on the on-ramp, coupled with a lack of a hard surface, were making it hard for traffic to travel the road and causing traffic to regularly back up for half a mile.
This is where the Soldiers of the 46th Engr Combat Bn, along with 8 IA engrs, combined their efforts and offered the construction skills to help resolve the confounding issue for the local community.  The only catch – the road could only be closed from 5 p.m. to 9 a.m. – and the job had to be completed in one night.
Integration of the IA engrs, said Wilkes, allowed them to gain hands-on experience so they can learn the appropriate skills to perform missions such as this in the future.

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Loving Arms

A man carries a girl to the line for distribution of children's clothing and school supplies delivered by El Salvador's Bn soldiers, X and XI rotations, in a village near Shaikh Sa'd, Aug. 24, 2008.
Photo by Sgt. Daniel West

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Dear Interested Reader,
A soon to open Reintegration Facility will contribute to Iraq's security and economy.  It's good to see pride on the faces of Iraqis as they rebuild their country.  Kata'ib Hezbollah terrorists captured, as well as AQI, and other criminals.  Weapons caches and munitions throughout Baghdad seized.
Joanna

____________________________________________________________

Aug. 26, 2008

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

Reintegration Facility Contributes to Iraq’s Security, Economy       

By Kendal Smith

Security lights are prepared for placement in the Modular Detainee Housing Unit area of the Theater Internment Facility and Reconciliation Center.

BAGHDAD — “The Theater Internment Facility Reconciliation Center (TIFRC) in Taji has been constructed to integrate detention with reintegration programs,” said Lt. Col. Ronald Pieri, Task Force 134 Engr. “The overall goal of the TIFRC is to reintegrate detainees with basic education and trade skills, such that they can contribute to a peaceful and secure Iraq.”
TF-134 is the organization in charge of detainee ops in Iraq. The U.S. Army Corps of Engrs project to build the TIFRC is close to being finished, with a completion date of Nov. 30, 2008.
The facility has 2 distinct parts, explained Michael Vantzelfden, a project mgr. for Gulf Region Div. On one side of the facility, detainees are housed in a secure environment in 13 dormitory-style buildings. On the other side, they are educated and trained; “reconciled” for reintegration into Iraqi society.  Arabic, English, math and other basic courses are taught in 11 classrooms of varying sizes built to accommodate the resident population of the facility.
Importantly, detainees are also taught vocational skills for reintegration into Iraqi society and future employment. Three vocational-technical facilities are the largest structures at the center.  One textile manufacturing mill, and a brick factory with a production capacity of 12 million bricks per year highlight the training opportunities.  Support facilities include a 20,000 square foot medical facility for use by everyone at the Center.
Besides education and training, there are judges’ chambers and parole areas with a family visitation center incorporating a family embracing area to assist with the reconciliation and reintegration efforts.
“To rebuild people means contributing a very critical part of rebuilding the country,” said Lt. Cmdr. Paul Chan, who is overseeing the construction. “That is exactly what the TIFRC is designed and constructed to do.  It plays an essential role in the reconciliation of useful citizens for a stronger Iraq.”

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NP confiscate weapons caches in southwestern Baghdad

FOB FALCON - Iraqi SF, working with MND - Baghdad Soldiers discovered 2 weapons caches, Aug. 25 in the Rashid district of southern Baghdad, consisting of 39 60 mm mortar rounds, 3 RPGs, a 57 mm rocket, 3 soda-can roadside bombs, two electrical blasting caps and two timers.
"The Iraqi SF, working with CF in Baghdad, contributed immensely to the Rashid district's decrease in the levels of violence," said Maj. Dave Olson, 1st BCT Spokesman, 4th ID. "The Iraqi citizens consistently help both the ISF and Soldiers of the 1st 'Raider' Bde in providing a safe and secure environment by furnishing tips on enemy activity and weapons caches."

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IA soldiers detained five suspects following IED strike

FOB FALCON -  Aug. 25, IA Soldiers detained the 5 Iraqis, who were found at the origin of a command detonated IED, at approx. 11:45 p.m. in the Saydiyah community of southern Baghdad's Rashid district.
The unit reported no casualties in connection with the attack, and IA soldiers responded to help Soldiers of the 1st BCT, 4th ID, secure the site.     

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MND-B Soldiers seize weapons caches throughout Baghdad

BAGHDAD -  Aug. 25, based on info from a SoI leader, Soldiers with the 1st CAB, 68th AR, 3rd Bn, 4th ID, removed 36 grenade fuses in the Adhamiyah area of Baghdad at approx. 11 a.m.
Later at approx. 4 p.m., Soldiers with Co A, 1st Bn, 75th Cav Regt, 2nd BCT, 101st Abn Div (AASLT) found 6 120 mm mortar rounds, a 60 mm mortar round, a 125 mm high explosive round, and an 82 mm mortar base plate in the Kadamiyah area of Baghdad.
While on patrol at approx. 11 p.m., Soldiers serving Co B, 153rd Inf Bn, Task Force Tomahawk, MND-B, found 9 125 mm high explosive projectiles in the al-Rashid district.

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MULTI-NATIONAL FORCE-IRAQ
PRESS DESK
BAGHDAD, Iraq

Two Kata’ib Hezbollah suspects captured in Rusafa (Baghdad)       

BAGHDAD – CF captured 2 suspected Kata’ib Hezbollah associates during ops, August 26 in Baghdad.  Acting on intel tips, CF targeted a propaganda facilitator for Kata’ib Hezbollah. It is believed his involvement in the Kata’ib Hezbollah media ops involved editing and posting of attack videos against Coalition and Iraqi forces.
CF stopped a vehicle  and after questioning the occupants, it was determined the driver of the vehicle was the wanted man.  He and one other suspect were detained without incident.
This capture marks the 14th suspected Kata’ib Hezbollah criminal CF have captured in 3 weeks. Kata’ib Hezbollah is believed to receive support from Iran in the way of funding, logistics, and weapons such as improvised rocket assisted mortars.
“Kata’ib Hezbollah are criminals and enemies of the Iraqi people and will be dealt with accordingly,” said Maj. John C. Hall, MNF-I spokesman.

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MULTI-NATIONAL FORCE-IRAQ
PRESS DESK
BAGHDAD, Iraq

Al-Qaeda bombing cells, foreign terrorist network disrupted (Mosul, Sharqat)     

BAGHDAD –  CF detained a wanted man during a raid August 25 west of Sharqat, about 90 km south of Mosul.  The man is believed to help foreign terrorists move into and around Iraq to conduct attacks for AQI.  A Tuesday op farther south in Bayji targeting the same network netted 2 suspects.
Using information from an operation Aug. 16, Coalition forces Tuesday captured a suspected associate of AQI senior leaders during an operation in Mosul. The man is also believed to help foreign terrorists move into Iraq to conduct attacks for AQI. Another man captured Tuesday in Mosul allegedly transported suicide bombing recruits from the Iraq-Syria border to Mosul for future attacks. He is also believed to be a liaison for AQI senior leaders who, according to recent detainee reporting, are having difficulty moving freely in the city.
Just south of Mosul, CF captured a man August 26 who reportedly plans attacks in the Hamim al-Alil area.
In Baghdad August 26, CF disrupted plans for an imminent bombing attack when they captured a wanted man reportedly working for a car-bombing cell in the city.
CF continued to target members of an AQI bombing network that operates in the Tigris River Valley and detained a suspect August 25 in Tikrit. The suspect allegedly supplies trigger devices to bombing cells in the area, which attack civilians and the SF who protect them.
“Continued pressure on al-Qaeda in Iraq is making it difficult for them to operate,” said Maj. John C. Hall, MNF-I spokesman.

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His face glowing with pride, as he installs his ceramic tile throughout a small medical clinic in his community. (Sorry, but the story was deleted.)

Dear Interested Reader,
Operation Bring on the Docs, is a great opportunity for Iraqi medics to catch up on the latest available medical services.  It's nice to highlight a most patriotic American family, as well as stories by way of a photo gallery of ordinary Iraqi people.  AQI takes more hits throughout Iraq. 
Joanna
_________________________________________

Aug. 26, 2008

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

Raiders detain 3 suspected criminals

FOB FALCON -  Aug. 25, in the Rashid district of southern Baghdad, at approx. 1:45 a.m. in the Jihad neighborhood, Soldiers from Co E, 1st Bn, 22nd Inf Regt, 1st BCT, 4th ID, arrested the 3 suspects during a point-specific target op.

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Iraqi, 41st FB doctors improve health care in al-Kut

FOB DELTA - Iraqi and U.S. Army doctors treated more than 230 patients at the Theeba Clinic in al-Kut during a combined medical engagement organized by the 41st Fires Bde., Aug. 21.
"It's all about teamwork, working hand-in-hand, a partnership to learn each other's medical culture and to better facilitate and train the Iraqis," said 2nd Lt. Sebastien Goillandeau, 589th BSB Medical Ops, planner with the Special Projects Office.
These efforts, part of Op Bring on the Docs, allow the medical professionals in the area to train, work and share experiences together in order to improve the health care provided to residents of al-Kut. "The focus for this particular clinic was sharing advancements in medicine that the Iraqi doctors didn't have access to over the last several years," said Goillandeau.
Bringing the 41st Fires Bde. doctors' experience to the clinics has an immediate impact on the local Iraqis, improving the care Iraqi doctors can provide to their patients, said Goillandeau. "We're trying to increase their capabilities," said Col. Italo Bastianelli, a surgeon for the 41st Fires Bde.  "We look at the building, the infrastructure development, equipment, supplies and mentoring with the Iraqi doctors to improve their experiences and capabilities," said Bastianelli.
The 41st Fires Bde. doctors also brought $5,000 worth of medical supplies to the clinic, another aspect of 'Bring on the Docs' that helps to improve the medical care for the people in Wasit.

A mother and her son stand in the waiting hall of the Theeba Clinic in al-Kut.
(Army photo by Spc. Tiffany Dusterhoft)

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Blackanthem Military News

Army father, Air Force son reunite in Iraq

Photo and story by Sgt. Zach Mott, 3rd BCT PAO, 4th Inf. Div., MND-B

FOB WAR EAGLE - After several months of failed attempts due to either weather problems, schedule conflicts or various other road blocks, a father and son were reunited, Aug. 17, in Iraq.

Army Chaplain (Capt.) Aaron Swartz who serves as the bn chaplain for the 3rd Special Troops Bn, 3rd BCT, 4th ID, and his eldest son, Air Force Senior Airman Brian Harding, deployed to Joint Base Balad with the 732nd Expeditionary Logistics Readiness Sqdrn, were able to spend a few days together at FOB War Eagle in northern Baghdad recently. Each said they cherished the time together and were glad to finally meet up in a country 5,000 miles from home.
Swartz, who served as an infantryman in the late 80s to early 90s, said he's proud his 3 sons have chosen to follow in his footsteps in uniformed service.  Harding, who is the oldest, is due to return to his home station in September.  Swartz's second oldest son, Nathan, recently completed his tour of duty in Iraq with the Army. His youngest son, Adam, is currently stationed at Fort Bliss, Texas, and is preparing for a deployment in 2009.
"I'm of the opinion, I went first. They followed me. Personally, I think they're crazy for joining the Army. I think I set the example for joining the Air Force," said Harding.
After Brian and Nathan joined the service, Swartz, who was in Seminary at the time, said he was called by God to join up again and serve as a chaplain. After being accepted, he too joined his sons in putting on the uniform.  Adam soon followed into military service as well.  "Being enlisted before, I'd served my country before. Seeing my boys kind of go the same area, do the enlisted route, it was good to see that - serving their country and doing their duty and doing that with honor," said Swartz.
Through this common military bond, Swartz and his eldest son both said they've been able to share more with each than those that don't wear the uniform.  "I would tell them ten times more than I would ever tell my wife Sally. I talk more about my experiences here, and they talk more about their experiences here," Swartz said.

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MULTI-NATIONAL FORCE-IRAQ
PRESS DESK
BAGHDAD, Iraq

Al-Qaeda in Iraq takes more hits (Baghdad)       

BAGHDAD – CF detained 9 suspected terrorists, including 5 wanted men, during ops around the country targeting AQI on August 24 and August 25.
Using info from an op Jul. 9, CF on August 25, captured a man assessed to be a senior terrorist liaison in Abu Ghraib, about 20 km west of Baghdad. The man is suspected of facilitating the movement of senior terrorist leaders in Baghdad and was detained with one additional suspect.
In Mosul, CF detained 2 suspected terrorists August 25, one of whom is a wanted man allegedly associated with several AQI leaders in the northern city. The wanted man is believed to be involved in attacks on CF.
August 24, in the desert town of Sinjar, about 115 km southwest of Mosul, CF captured 2 wanted men who are reportedly foreign terrorist facilitators along the Iraq-Syria border.
CF in Hawija, about 60 km southwest of Kirkuk, captured a man August 24, who allegedly leads the AQI propaganda network in the area.  Intel reports indicate he was trying to link propaganda networks from various parts of the country and consolidate ops.
Two suspected terrorists were detained in Baghdad August 24, during ops targeting AQI senior leaders in the capital.

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All Smiles

An Iraqi girl smiles in excitement as U.S. Soldiers from Alpha Btry, 3rd Bn, 6th FA, 10th Mtn Div, Fort Drum, N.Y., deployed to FOB Warrior, Kirkuk, visit the neighborhood, Aug. 20, 2008.
Photo by Staff Sgt. Ave Pele-Sizelove

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 Rewarded

A top performing student is excited to receive a soccer ball for her outstanding performance during an award ceremony at the Altun Kapri city council building, Aug. 20, 2008.
Photo by Staff Sgt. Ave Pele-Sizelove

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Neck and Neck

Soldiers from the 8th Div, Iraqi Army Scouts, MP, and Personal Security Detail units sprint back to their training groups during a group physical fitness workout, Aug. 19, 2008, at Camp Echo.
Photo by Airman 1st Class Matthew Plew

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Thirsty Bird

An Altun Kapri city council member gives water to a bird inside the courtyard of the city council building, Aug. 20, 2008.
Photo by Staff Sgt. Ave Pele-Sizelove

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Dear Interested Reader,
It's unimaginable to think of a young girl of 13 as a suicide bomber.  She surrendered before hurting anyone, and perhaps will shed light on how she came to want to do such a thing.  The Jadriya Lake Park in Karadah reopens to the joy of thousands of Iraqis.  The new CH-47F Chinook, is most appreciated by the CAB, 4th ID.  Several Colorado orgs. donate prescription glasses for the people of Rawah.  Iraqi SF train in riot control, and Rashid hosts Special Olympics.
Joanna
___________________________________________

Aug. 25, 2008

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

Coalition Forces Help Rawah Focus     

Photo and story by Lance Cpl. Paul M. Torres

Hamed Abrahim, the mayor of Rawah, tries on a new pair of glasses in Rawah, Aug 13, 2008. 

RAWAH — The town of Rawah has had many improvements since CF arrived. With their help, and the assistance of several orgs. from Colorado, the local residents will soon be able to see the progress a little better.  CF recently delivered over 700 prescription eyeglasses to help provide the residents of Rawah with badly needed prescription lenses.
“We are helping increase the quality of life for many of the people who could otherwise not afford prescription glasses,” said Navy Lt. Malcolm Brown, bn surgeon for 2nd Bn, 2nd Marine Regt, RCT 5. “There have been instances where Iraqis have gotten themselves in a life-threatening situation because they could not read the warning signs, so we are potentially saving lives.”
“They don’t have a proper hospital where they can go to be treated,” said 1st Lt. Daniel M. Thomas, team leader for Civil Affairs Team 5, Detachment 1, RCT 5. “The clinic they do have is lacking medical supplies, such as glasses, and the facilities to treat some of the more severe eyesight problems.”
The glasses were donated by 3 orgs. from Colorado: the Fort Collins Lions Club, the Sterling Lions Club and the Rotary Club of Fort Collins. The Rotary and Lions clubs collected and sorted the glasses by prescription before sending them. “It’s great that there are people back in the states that are willing to help the people out here,” said Lance Cpl. Kyle J. Friel, a motor transportation mechanic with CA Team 5. “By helping the people, they are also helping our mission to aid the Iraqis in rebuilding their infrastructure.”

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Blackanthem Military News

New CH-47F Chinook - 4th Inf. Div. combat tested, approved in Iraq

By Sgt. Jason Dangel

CAMP TAJI - Since the Vietnam War more than 40 years ago, the CH-47 Chinook Cargo helicopter has provided troops on the ground with vital supplies necessary for the sustainment of combat ops all over the world.
On today's battlefield, the aviation logistics mission hasn't changed; however, with the integration of the newest version of the dependable aircraft, the CH-47F Chinook Improved Cargo helicopter, missions are being successfully completed faster and more efficiently than ever before.
Upon deploying from Fort Hood, Texas, approx. 2 months ago, the CAB, 4th ID became the first aviation unit in the Army to bring the upgraded cargo helicopter into combat and have since reported great success as they continue to provide logistical support to ground forces operating all over Iraq.
The CH-47F is a remanufactured version of the 20-year-old D model featuring new 4,868 horsepower engines that enable the aircraft to reach speed in excess of 175 mph and reach flying altitudes up to 20,000 feet, depending on the load.  Other enhancements include a newly designed digital crew station to include a digital map, glass cockpit and enhanced communications and navigation equipment.
During any given 6-hour mission, it isn't uncommon to see the Chinook crews dropping off supplies throughout the Iraq theatre of ops.  "We provide a service you can't get anywhere else.  In a heavy lift capacity, we can move more cargo, more efficiently and a lot safer than it takes to ground haul the equipment, said Spc. Josh Miller, a crew chief with Co. B.  "There are small FOBs and COBs out there that need small parts, pieces and whatever we can take them, and it is our responsibility to get them what they need," he said.

Pfc. Daniel Halweg, who serves as a door gunner with Co B, cleans the windshield of a CH-47F Chinook Improved Cargo helicopter as part of the crew's pre-flight inspections before the start of a mission at Camp Taji, Aug. 20.
(Army photo by Sgt. Jason Dangel)

Spc. John Colwell, who serves as a crew chief with Co B, performs pre-flight inspection.

A CAB, 4th ID, CH-47F Chinook Improved Cargo helicopter prepares to land after the conclusion of test maneuvers.  The F model is the newest addition to the CAB's fleet of approx. 110 aircraft and replaces the 20-year-old D model.

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Iraqi Police, U.S. Soldiers Team Up for Medical, Humanitarian Aid Mission 

Story and photo by Sgt. Zach Mott

A member of the Iraqi NP hands a stuffed animal to an Iraqi girl during a combined medical engagement in the Sha'ab neighborhood of northern Baghdad on Aug. 22, 2008.

BAGHDAD — Hundreds of residents braved the intense Iraqi summer heat to receive a medical screening from American doctors and receive an aid package from Iraqi NP in the Sha’ab neighborhood of the Adhamiyah District of northern Baghdad on Aug. 22.
Even before the doors officially opened shortly after 8 a.m., Sha’ab residents began lining up outside the neighborhood school for the chance to have their ailments and pains checked.
“This is the third time we’ve come here to get medicine and I’m very happy to come here,” said Sabiha Rathel, a Sha’ab resident who had her 3 children in tow at the combined medical engagement.
After being screened by doctors and medics with MND – Baghdad, and being prescribed the needed medication if available, the attendees were ushered by police to pick up various school supplies and a humanitarian aid package. The school supplies handed out by the 1st Iraqi NP Div included a backpack, pens, pencils and a stuffed animal for those too young for school. The humanitarian aid package is designed to feed a family one meal.

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One potential suicide bomber detained

BAQUBAH - An unwilling female suicide bomber was detained in Baqubah, Aug. 24 by IP.  The unwilling suicide bomber surrendered to the IPs rather than detonating herself and potentially killing or wounding bystanders.  After identifying the suicide vest on the 13-year-old female, IPs requested Iraqi and CF EOD units to remove the vest.  The girl is currently in the custody of the IP.  The incident is still under investigation.  

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IA, MND-B Soldiers continue to take weapons off streets

BAGHDAD - IA soldiers and Soldiers from Co C., 1st Bn, 14th Inf Regt, 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th Inf Div, confiscated and seized munitions throughout Baghdad, Aug. 24, consisting of 108 AK-47's, a Berno Rifle, 3 SKS rifles, 3 bolt-action rifles, 3 pistols, an RPK, 11 100 mm rounds and 9 57 mm rounds.

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Officials reopen refurbished Jadriya Lake Park in Karadah

FOB RUSTAMIYAH - An estimated 2,250  Iraqi citizens witnessed a step toward normalcy as local officials reopened Jadriya Lake Park in the Karadah district of eastern Baghdad, Aug. 22.   
The Jadriya Lake Park grounds encompass approx. 400,000 square meters, and the lake itself is about 300,000 square meters said Capt. Sean O'Brien, the effects coordinator for 5th Bn, 25th FA, 4th BCT, 10th Mtn Div (Lt).
"It's a very large water park," said Sgt. 1st Class Raymond Allen, a NCO assigned to the 5th Bn., 25th FA effects cell. "It's a good place for families to go to and just relax and enjoy family time."
The project had several phases. The first was cleaning the water park, clearing rubble and getting water flowing. Phases two and three involved adding accents to the park area, including installing basketball poles and benches, painting and other beautification measures. To help with this, 5th Bn Soldiers approached local small-businessmen about opening shops and stands in the water park.
"The results of the project have been phenomenal," said Maj. Robert Machen, 5th Bn., battalion EO. The project isn't finished, with only two of three phases complete, so there are still plenty of great things to come from this project, said Machen.  Eventually, the plan is to include restaurants, a boat ramp and paddle boats, he said.  Even though CF attended the Jadriya Lake Park reopening, they represented only a small percentage of security personnel at the event. Iraqi SF provided the most, said Machen.
The reopening of the lake park brings with it hope for and a hint of a return to normalcy, particularly for members of the Dept. of Tourism. Eventually, Iraqi tourism officials hope to use projects like this one to send the message to the rest of the world that Iraq has something to offer, Machen said.

Iraqi citizens enjoy riding Jet Skis at the Jadriya Lake Park reopening.
(Army photo by Sgt. Grant Okubo)

Artists display their talents as they paint during "Karadah Day."

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ISF conduct riot control training

Kirkuk - As Iraq continues to emerge as a free and democratic country, its SF must be prepared to maintain stability and keep the land in order.
Under the guidance of the 2nd Bn, 22nd Inf Regt, 1st Bde, 10th Mtn Div's Emergency Services Unit (ESU) of northeastern Iraq's Kirkuk Province, recently conducted training on how to effectively control and eventually dissolve citizen riots and protests, Aug. 20.  Adopting the Army's military decision-making process, Kirkuk's ESU staff members created guidelines and standard operating procedures for several scenarios involving up to 5,000 people.
Although CF from the 1-10th Mtn. Div. and the 212th MP Co were on hand to supervise and act as mentors, the training process was left almost entirely in the hands of Iraqi officials; continuing a nationwide transfer of authority.
"A suicide bomber recently caused a lot of chaos in this region when he targeted a large number of Iraqi civilians who had gathered for a protest," said Capt. James Burnett, 2-22 Inf. Fire Support Officer. "Afterward, Iraqi officials wanted their SF to be better prepared to handle similar situations, and we agreed to give them advice and monitor their progress."
The training involved several different aspects that would be combined and utilized as a single, overall process including fire and rescue depts., intel gathering, communications and deployment of manpower.  Iraqis involved in the training were eager to learn and quick to adapt to every scenario they were challenged with.
"It's amazing to witness how well Iraqi SF react to each new exercise and how quickly they learn," said Master Sgt. Matt Raines, 1-10th Mtn. Div. MiTT, who also helped mentor the training. "They have an overwhelming desire to prove to themselves, CF and most of all to the Iraqi people that they are capable of protecting their country."

Pfc. Thomas Kozell, with the 2nd Bn, observes training maneuvers of a group of Iraqi SF.
Army Photo by Spc. Jason Jordan)

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Bridge Re-opens Over Thar Thar Canal     

By Cpl. Chris T. Mann

FALLUJAH — IA Soldiers, operating in an area shared by RCT 1, escorted local sheiks and tribal leaders across a newly constructed bridge in the Bagharra region of Iraq, Aug. 19.  The passage marked the re-opening of the Salem Bridge, an important link in connecting local citizens with cities on the other side of the Thar Thar Canal.  Insurgents had demolished the original bridge with IEDs more than a year ago, forcing locals to travel nearly 5 hours to cross the canal.
“Before this bridge opened, the people were suffering,” said 2nd Lt. Nasser Kazzoy, scout platoon cmdr with the IA. “Now that the bridge is open, people can cross the bridge and get to the other side in 5 minutes.”
Bagharra, a remote area with vast open desert, is home to mostly farmers who earn their living raising crops and livestock.  They depended on passage over the canal to import farming supplies and to export their harvests to nearby cities.  Insurgent’s destruction of the original bridge forced many families in the area to move because of lost profits.
The re-construction included entry control points to allow the IA to continue security efforts near the bridge.  Marines with the local MiTT credited IA Soldiers for their lead in the project. “This has been an effort purely initiated by the IAs and will help stimulate the local economy and increase the quality of life for people living in the area,” said 1st Lt. Emre I. Albayrak, military advisor.  “These guys are doing an amazing job keeping the area secure.”

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Al Thura Sports Handicapped Club Hosts Rashid Special Olympics     

Photo and story by Staff Sgt. Brent Williams

Members of the Iraqi Wheelchair Fencing Federation, Ali Zhati parries with Mohammed Taliq during the first game of the Boy's Fencing Competition - part of the Rashid Special Olympics, Aug. 22, 2008, at the Al Thura Sports Handicapped Club located in the Rashid District of southern Baghdad.

FOB FALCON —  Soldiers of the 4th ID applauded Rashid’s disabled athletes during the annual youth sports event that showcased tennis matches, table tennis and fencing in the spirit of camaraderie and competition for trophies and medals.
“It’s a great event,” said Capt. Thao Reed, 1st BCT, 4th ID. “It shows that we can unite Iraqis and endorse teamwork and build camaraderie.”
The club is one of five youth sports centers for disabled athletes in Iraq, and the second such club in Baghdad. The Al Thura Club was first established in 2004 within a community in southern Baghdad and was created for disabled veterans of the Iraq-Iran War more than two decades ago.  The youth center and sports events, such as the games, are indicators that the mindset of Iraqi society is changing, said Reed. “I think the Iraqi government are realizing that disabled citizens can be integrated into society and can play a productive role in society,” she said.  Activities such as the Rashid Olympics are great rehabilitation programs, integrating Iraqis into sports to build confidence and physical recovery for disabled athletes and citizens, said Reed.
With the help of non-governmental orgs., Iraqi leaders are also working to identify and treat youth suffering from the trauma of war, opening clinics to address mental health issues, such as depression, said Reed. “They are providing special education classes meant to help increase awareness and wellness to reach the population,” she said. “The NGOs are doing their part to help educate Iraqi men and women, using programs such as the youth sport centers to help address those needs.”
Sgt. Andrew Glover said the opportunity to attend events such as the Rashid Olympics shows an improvement in the security situation for Iraqis in Baghdad. “It also shows great leaps and bounds in the fact that they have become self-sufficient as a whole and want to better themselves and their community,” said Glover, 4th ID.
As the Iraqi people worry less about security in their communities, the people are returning to a sense of normalcy in their lives, explained Reed.
The Rashid Olympics will conclude with the final championship games tentatively scheduled for Sep. 2.

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Teething

An Iraqi girl chews on a small stuffed animal given to her by U.S. Soldiers in a clinic in Al Kut, during a Combined Medical Engagement, Aug. 21, 2008.
Photo by Tiffany Dusterhoft

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Dear Interested Reader,
We take the running of our government for granted, but in Western al-Anbar, we are teaching "Govt. 101" and sewing the seeds of Democracy.  400,000 people in Diwaniyah will be getting a new substation to improve their electrical grid.  Our troops' circumstances depend on where they're deployed, and some who are isolated like the soldiers of the 67th FSC are challenged, but morale is good.  Huge weapons and munition caches (some with Iranian fingerprints) have been seized, while terrorists and criminals detained or killed.
Joanna
______________________________

Aug. 24, 2008

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

Government 101: Seeds of Democracy in Western al-Anbar     

By Cpl. Ryan Tomlinson

Waleed Salaiman, a senior trainer from Fallujah, discusses governmental structure types with local leaders during a govt training class in Rutbah, Aug. 18, 2008.

RUTBAH — City and village leaders from around the region gathered at the Rutbah City Council building here Aug. 18-20, to learn the fundamentals of running a democratic govt. “It does my heart good that when I showed up here and started talking to the leaders, we discussed education and govt and not once talked about security,” said Lt. Col. Russell E. Smith, 44, bn cmdr, 2nd Light Armored Recon Bn, RCT 5.  “This is a huge step in this area because it proves that we’ve turned a corner and are now focusing on rebuilding western al-Anbar [province].”
During the training, the leaders gathered inside the conference room to learn the basics of operating a govt. The men learned structure, organization of councils and economic strategies. The training started in December 2007, and the leaders meet for 3 days every 2 months to ensure they are best equipped to handle their positions.
“A lot of these men come from different tribes and different backgrounds,” said Mark B. Humphries, 54, a liaison officer with the U.S. State Dept.  “When they enter their office, they must take off the tribal robe and perform as public servants for the whole district. They’re still adapting, and our job is to help them through the transition.”
The training was set up in a three-level process.  The first was teaching Coalition forces Iraqi law.  The second was teaching Iraqi leaders to be leaders, and the third was teaching councilmen to be councilmen. Although the training is only in its second phase, the leaders have already begun to make a difference.  “So far we’ve been able to solve the electricity and water problems in the city,” said Qasim Awad, mayor of Rutbah. “Progress happens step by step, and we hope it continues.”
2nd LAR and other Coalition units will continue to support the leaders of western al-Anbar province until the local govt is established and running at full capacity.  “I want to thank the CF for supporting the classes to improve the leadership,” said Qasim. “It’s good for the govt to have new ideas on how to improve everything.”

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New Substation Helps Stabilize Diwaniyah’s Electrical Grid

USACE photo and story by Alicia Embrey  

   

Construction of a $25 million new 132kV substation for the city of Diwaniyah in southern Iraq’s Qadisiyah Province is 82% complete and scheduled to be finished this fall.

AL DIWANIYAH —  This massive project has sparked the interest of Al Diwaniyah’s 400,000 residents and local officials.
According to U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Gulf Region South District Iraqi Engr Sahib Dukman, the project was originally planned in 1982. Dukman explained that at that time the Iraqi Govt developed an electrical master plan, but projects under the plan were delayed due to what Dukman called Saddam Hussein’s bad behavior.  “The 132 kV substation in East Diwaniyah is very important for the electrical grid in this region. This new substation will reduce the load currently on 2 33/11 kV substations built in 2003 to a reasonable level,” said Dukman.  “The substations built in 2003 are part of the master plan developed by the Iraqi Ministry of Electricity but were not built to handle the current demand for power,” he added.
“More substations are being built throughout the Qadisiyah Province and when finished will link together, forming a stabilized grid,” explained Gulf Region Division Construction Rep. John De Los Santos. “With the help of Iraqi Engrs like Dukman working with contractor Pauwels International who has employed hundreds of local Iraqis, this project is nearly complete.”

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Blackanthem Military News

Crazy Horse Soldiers settle in at JSS 2

Story and photos by Sgt. Daniel T. West

Soldiers of the 67th FSC work to build air conditioner stands at JSS 2, Aug. 21.

FOB DELTA - Nearly 2 weeks after soldiers of the 1st Georgian Bde were called back to Georgia to respond to a crisis at home, Soldiers of the 41st Fires Bde and Iraqi SF are adjusting to their new role at checkpoints around Wasit province, and living and working with their IA counterparts, quickly moved to take over their roles.
A typical day is spent working on the outpost and usually involves as many as 6 hours spent on a guard tower with IA soldiers, said Staff Sgt. Jesus Palacios, 67th Forward Support Co., currently at JSS 2, near Shaik Sa'ad.
Living and working closely with the IA poses some problems, but the language barrier is the most significant, said Spc. Prichard Tulong, 67th FSC.  "Working with the IA's can be hard because very few of them speak English," he said. "We mainly use hand and arm signals, really."
"We've gotten very good at talking with our hands," added Palacios.  "Even when talking to Americans, now, we find ourselves talking with gestures."  Still, even though the language barrier exists, the Soldiers said they had seen success working with the IA.
"We do well with them," said Palacios.  "Everything we do, they want to do.  A big part of our job is training, but they came to us very well trained in vehicle and personnel searches.  We mainly conduct refresher training for them, now," he added.
"They know the standards," said Tulong.  "Each day they impress us with something when we try to teach them, and it turns out they already know the task.  A lot of them have quite a bit of combat experience," he added.  "They tell us some crazy stories."
Life at a small checkpoint with a small group of people has not been easy, acknowledged both Tulong and Palacios. "We'll have been out here for 2 weeks on Saturday," Palacios said.  "It seems like forever.  It's hot and lonely out here," he added.  "Morale's as good as it can be, though."
Overall, there was a sense of comradeship at the small checkpoint.  "They're motivated the same as us," said Tulong. "We just have to take it one day at a time."

Corporal William Clay keeps watch from a guard tower on JSS Two

(From Right) Spc. Prichard Tudong, Spc. Lawrence Hollis and Spc. Jon Golds, 67th FSC, listen to Brig. Gen. Jeffrey Buchanan, 10th Mtn Div Dep. Comm. Gen., Ops, speak before awarding them Division coins to honor their work at JSS 2.

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101st Soldiers unearth weapons caches in Salah ad Din

SALAH AD DIN PROVINCE - Soldiers of the 1st BCT, 101st Abn Div (AA), along with Iraqi SF, discovered a series of major weapons caches in Salah ad Din province over the past several days.
Acting on tips from local citizens, soldiers found a bevy of serviceable weapons Northeast of Balad and Southwest of Samarra, which ranged from sniper's rifles to high-explosive ordnance.
Soldiers from the 1st Sqdrn, 32nd Cav Regt were led to a weapons cache near Balad City on Aug. 19, consisting of different sizes of mortar and artillery rounds, mines, RPGs and launchers, explosives and bomb making materials, a sniper rifle and anti-coalition propaganda. Three individuals were detained in connection with the sizable cache.
South of the city of Samarra, Iraqi soldiers turned in a large cache consisting of 87 155 mm rounds and 30 68 mm rockets, along with explosives and other bomb-making materials.
Also on Aug. 19, Soldiers from the 1st Special Troops Bn in ad Dwar were led to a cache site consisting of chemical suits, gloves, boots and masks. The cache also housed electronic materials used in the making of explosive detonation devices, along with over 885,000 Iraqi Dinar and $6,500 in U.S. currency.

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MND-B Soldiers detain two suspected AQI members, Special Groups criminal

BAGHDAD - Aug. 23, at approx. 12:30 a.m., Soldiers from HHD, 1st BCT, 4th ID, detained 2 suspected terrorists during a target op in the Jaza'ir community in the Rashid district of southern Baghdad.
At approx. 1 a.m., Soldiers from Co C, 4th Bn, 64th AR, attached to the 1st BCT, 4th ID, conducted an intel-driven op in the Risalah community of Rashid and detained a suspected Special Groups criminal.

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IA Soldiers recover cache of explosives in al-Nasiriyah

IA soldiers recovered a cache full of explosives east of al Nasiriyah, Aug. 20. The cache, consisting of one 240 mm rocket, 65 blocks of C4 explosives and 150kg of TNT, were concealed in 50-pound cement bags from an Iranian co.

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Three AQI captured, four killed in separate Diyala operations

BALAD -  On Aug. 19 in Kanaan, Iraqi SOF captured 3 suspected members of an IED cell that operates between Baquba and Balad Ruz. Two of the suspects, one reportedly an AQI leader and enabler, are said to be directly responsible for an IED attack that killed a CF officer and an interpreter in May. The third suspect is believed to be an AQI financier for the Kanaan and south Balad Ruz regions.
On Aug. 17, Baquba SWAT team conducted an op which focused on reports of an AQI underground prison and the establishment of a new safe haven for terrorists in Abu Alapa, approx. 33 km south of Baquba.  Forces who assisted in the op, engaged in small arms fire with 4 armed men killing all.
During this op, Baquba SWAT uncovered explosives and IED-making materials in addition to a weapons cache consisting of various weapons, machine guns, RPGs and rounds, mortar tubes and several assorted rounds of ammo.

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Farm Fresh

A produce vendor displays his vegetables at a market in Baghdad, Aug. 16, 2008.
Photo by Spc. Charles Gill

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Dear Interested Reader,
We have two outstanding stories and photos, one about our paratroopers celebrating airborne history, the XVIII Airborne Corp's birthday.  Our other story takes us on a mission called Operation Himera, by way of photos showing our troops and the IA targeting know AQI hideouts.  We're also treated to schools being refurbished in time for the new school year.  Large munition caches seized, and criminals and terrorists detained.
Joanna
____________________________________ 

Aug. 23, 2008

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

Camp Victory paratroopers celebrate airborne history, XVIII Airborne Corp's birthday

Story, photos by Staff Sgt. Jeremy D. Crisp

CAMP VICTORY - A two-fold ceremony took place at the Al Faw Palace here, Aug 22, one which celebrated a historic birthday as well as honored all airborne-qualified servicemembers from past and present.
The XVIII Airborne Corps turns 64-years-old Aug. 25, while the first official Army parachute jump celebrated its 68th anniversary Aug. 16.  Both milestone events were celebrated in ceremonial fashion at the palace - complete with a birthday-cake cutting, a video on the history of the airborne force and a performance from the 82nd Abn Div's All-American Chorus.
Paratroopers from all branches of service attended the ceremony, including past XVIII Airborne Corps general officers - former XVIII Abn. Corps Cmdr., retired Gen. William F. Kernan, and MNF - Iraq Cmdr., Gen. David H. Petreaus, who was chief of staff for the Corps from 2000 to 2001. 
Presiding over the ceremony was the MNC - Iraq comm. gen., Lt. Gen. Lloyd J. Austin III.  "Since World War II, our airborne forces have earned an impressive reputation," Austin said. "They are known around the world because of their discipline, their tenacity and their will to win."  And that will to win has carried over to the Iraq theater of ops, he added.
"The Sky Dragons of the XVIII Airborne Corps and all paratroopers have continued to maintain a professional, warrior reputation through their actions here in Iraq - which is extremely important in a counterinsurgency environment," Austin said. "As I walk through markets in places like Mosul and Sadr City, it is clear to me that Iraqi citizens have faith and trust in our troopers - and that is absolutely necessary for us to achieve our goals."  
"It feels great to be able to take part in history, and it was a nice surprise." said 20-year-old Oce, an 11-jump veteran.  "I was made aware yesterday that I was going to be able to take part in the cake cutting, and I'm really glad I did."  While one young paratrooper took part in the ceremony, a veteran of 269 jumps veteran did as well. "You can't help but feel proud to be Airborne during a ceremony like this," said Chaplain (Col.) John P. Hash, MNC-I chaplain, who gave the invocation.
The ceremony was complete as the Army, the XVIII Abn. Corps and the U.S. colors marched from the rotunda, but it was a final word from Austin, said during his speech, which highlighted that which all in attendance were there to celebrate:  "... Airborne!" 

   

Sgt. Julius Toney, a member of the 82nd Abn Div's All-American Chorus, marches in place while singing cadence.

Staff Sgt. Carey Brown, a member of the 82nd Abn Div's All-American Chorus, sings 'Carolina on my Mind' in tribute to the home of the XVIII Airborne Corps.

Sgt. Jay Goldsborough, a member of the 82nd Abn Div's All-American Chorus, addresses a crowd of servicemembers gathered to celebrate the first official parachute jump, which took place Aug. 16, 1940, and the XVIII Abn Corps' 64th birthday.

Lt. Gen. Lloyd J. Austin III shakes the hand of fellow paratrooper, Spc. Eric-Brandon Oce, MNC-I security and intel, following the cutting of the XVIII Abn Corps' birthday cake.

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IPs, MND-N Soldiers target known AQI hideouts

A Soldier from the 1st Special Troops Bn, 1st BCT, 101st Abn Div (AASLT), braces himself during an early morning joint-air assault with IP in the desert areas near Thar Thar Lake in the Salah ad Din province, Aug. 21. The op, called Operation Himera, targeted known al-Qaeda hideouts.
(Army Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Kevin Doheny)

A group of Soldiers from the 1st Special Troops Bn, provide security while other Soldiers and IP clear a known al-Qaeda hideout.

Soldiers from 1st Special Troops Bn, pull security with their IP counterparts while waiting for helicopters to take them to another al-Qaeda hideout.

Soldiers from the 1st Special Troops Bn, and their IP counterparts regroup after clearing an al-Qaeda hideout. The early-morning air-assault op was aimed at clearing 2 hideouts in 2 separate locations.

The rotor wash from a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter blows sand and dust on Soldiers from 1st Special Troops Bn, and their IP counterparts, as they wait for another set of helicopters to take them to another al-Qaeda hideout.

Capt. John Gabriel, cmdr. of Co A, 1st Special Troops Bn, pulls security Aug. 21 as two UH-60 Black Hawks prepare to pick up his Soldiers. Gabriel's Soldiers, combat engineers from the 1st BCT assaulted 2 known al-Qaeda hideouts in different locations during the operation.

Soldiers from the 1st Special Troops Bn pull security as a UH-60 Black Hawk prepares to pick them up.

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Schools refurbished in Abu T'shir

FOB FALCON - MND - Baghdad Soldiers gathered with community leaders for a luncheon to celebrate the summertime renovation and reopening of 2 schools in the Rashid district of southern Baghdad, Aug. 21.
Lt. Col. Troy Smith, cmdr. of the 7th Sqdn., 10th Cav. Regt., spoke about the great contributions made by the many contractors. "This is a great step to work towards the future in Abu T'shir," Smith stated. "Everybody wants to continue to improve the area."
The contractors made many improvements on the schools through the summer, such as new furniture, air conditioners and remodeled sewage systems.
Dawood Salman, a civil engineer and mgr. of the Muath bin Jabal Secondary School, which is equivalent to an American junior high and high school, managed many projects for the school during its 45-day makeover.  "When kids return to the school and see it is in good condition, they will be very happy," Salman explained. "It also makes the teachers have better lessons for the kids."
"The future is in your hands," Smith said to local leaders at the luncheon. "I have no doubt the future is bright."  The 2 schools are tentatively scheduled to reopen Aug. 25.

Capt. Kris Howell, cmdr. of Troop C, 7th Sqdrn, inspects renovations to the Muath bin Jabal Secondary School Aug. 21 in the Abu T'shir community of southern Baghdad.
(Army photo by Sgt. David Hodge)

Capt. Howell speaks with a local leader from southern Baghdad's Abu T'shir community. 

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National Police seize large cache in New Baghdad

BAGHDAD - Aug. 21, NP uncovered a cache of 87 122 mm artillery rounds in Muhalla 739 of the Al Jadida area in New Baghdad. The rounds included 11 illumination artillery rounds and 76 explosive artillery rounds.

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MND-B Soldiers detain key suspected criminal leader in New Baghdad

BAGHDAD - Soldiers attached to 4th BCT, 10th Mtn Div (Lt), detained a suspected Special Groups criminal leader, Aug. 21 in the New Baghdad district of eastern Baghdad.
Soldiers from 1st Bn, 66th AR, conducted an op in the Fedaliyah area of New Baghdad resulting in the detainment of a key suspected Special Groups leader allegedly involved in IED attacks in the Fedaliyah and Riassa areas, and having links to other key Special Groups criminals.

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MND-B Soldiers discover munitions in Rashid district

FOB FALCON - MND - Baghdad Soldiers discovered a munitions cache, confiscated hand grenades and detained 2 criminals in the Rashid district of southern Baghdad, Aug. 21.

Acting on a tip from a SoI, Soldiers from Troop C, 7th Sqdrn, 10th Cav. Regt, 1st BCT, 4th ID, discovered 10 landmines and a tube of propellant in an abandoned house.
(Army photo by Staff Sgt. Brent Williams)

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MND-B Soldiers detain suspects across Rashid, ISF dismantle booby trap

FOB FALCON -  Aug. 20, at approx. 9:30 p.m., Soldiers from HHD, 1st BCT, 4th ID, detained a suspected terrorist in East Rashid's Masafee community linked to attacks using IEDs and suicide vests in Baghdad.
At approx. 11 p.m., Soldiers from HHT, 7th Sqdrn, 10th Cav Regt, 1st BCT, 4th ID, working on actionable intel arrested a suspected Special Groups criminal in West Rashid's Hadar neighborhood.
Meanwhile in the Risalah community of southwestern Baghdad, Iraqi NP discovered a homemade booby trap, at approx. 10 p.m. The NPs immediately dismantled the bomb and confiscated the bomb-making materials, consisting of a fragmentation grenade, 2 60 mm mortar rounds, and a can of homemade explosives.

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Dear Interested Reader,
A boost for the Iraqi economy is the Iraqi-owned container repair facility that has opened at Joint Base Balad.  Very capable IA medical personnel work
alongside U.S. counterparts, while IA soldiers take the lead in supporting Sadr City clinic.  Kudos to Sgt. Michael Fredrickson, who at the age of 53 is mail clerking at FOB Liberty, joining the Arkansas National Guard the day after 9-11.  Pressure continues to rid Iraq of AQI.
Joanna
_______________________________________

Aug. 22, 2008

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

Iraqi-owned container repair facility opens at Joint Base Balad

Rear Adm. Kathleen Dussault, cmdr. of Joint Contracting Command, Iraq, congratulates Mr. Hashim Mahdi, owner of the Miran Company and operator of the new Joint Base Balad Container Repair facility, Aug. 21. Thousands of large shipping containers throughout Iraqi are in need of regular maintenance, and the Miran Company will hire Iraqi workers and train them to maintain the containers.
(Army photo by Staff Sgt. Les Newport)

Mr. Hashim Mahdi shares a light moment with Command Sgt. Maj. Paul Crabtree of the 76th Inf BCT, Aug. 21. Crabtree is the Iraqi Based Industrial Zone project mgr. for the Joint Base Balad Container Repair Facility and has been working with Mr. Hashim. The facility is yet another project the IBIZ initiated that provides Iraqis with economic growth opportunities on the perimeters of CF installations.

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IA medical personnel work alongside U.S. counterparts

CAMP TAQADDUM - Camp Taqaddum Surgical, 1st Supply Bn (Reinforced), 1st Marine Logistics Group, has partnered with Iraqi medical personnel at Camp Habbaniyah and brought them into the operating room for the first time, Aug. 21.
Lt. Cmdr. John A. Lynott, senior orthopedic surgeon with TQ Surgical, worked with IA Maj. Muallah, medical officer from Camp Habbaniyah, to remove fragmentation from the leg of an IP.
In less than 2 hours, the fragmentation was removed and the IP was recovering from the surgery. "It's the first time we've scrubbed in with any Iraqis," said Lynott, who felt confident in Muallah's abilities and noticed in the operating room how well-trained he was.
With progress like this, it's only a matter of time before the new medical facility at Habbaniyah is up and running, staffed with well trained and experienced Iraqi surgeons.  Both sides see the benefits as the relationship continues between the two forces. "Anything we do to help build their medical capacity is a good use of our time and facilities," said Brig. Gen. Robert R. Ruark, comm. gen. of 1st Marine Logistics Group.

Lt. Cmdr. John A. Lynott and IA Maj. Muallah, surgically remove fragmentation.
(Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Tyler B. Barstow)

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Iraqi Army takes lead to support Sadr City clinic

BAGHDAD - The IA delivered medical supplies and provided treatment to the citizens of the Thawra 1 neighborhood of the Sadr City district, Aug. 20.
Co C, 1st Bn, 35th AR, attached to Task Force 1st Bn, 6th Inf Regt, who currently supports the 3rd BCT, 4th ID, provided security for the op, while IA soldiers and medical personnel met with Iraqi families in need of treatment.
The IA took the lead to provide supplies for the 2nd Health Clinic of Sadr City, as well as additional medical attention to the surrounding community, putting an Iraqi face on the op.
"We are just glad to be able to help and let the IA take the lead with the combined medical engagement," said Capt. Andrew Slack, the cmdr. of Co C. "Hopefully every clinic in Thawra 1 will get repeated visits from the IA as they are operating with more independence every day."
The clinic administrator and staff welcomed the visit and were glad for the additional medical support and supplies. "We are grateful for the efforts of the IA and friendly forces. The supplies they have brought will be put to good use of the people of our neighborhood," said Dr. Thaer, the 2nd Health Clinic senior administrator.

Iraqi Soldiers meet with doctors and staff members prior to the Combined Medical Engagement.
(Army photo by Sgt. Philip Klein)

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ISF, MND-B MPs confiscate multiple passports

BAGHDAD - Iraqi SF, along with MP Soldiers from the 191st MP Co, 18th MP Bde, confiscated more than 20 passports and detained 2 suspects during checkpoint ops near Thawra in the Sadr City district of Baghdad, Aug. 18.
While assisting ISF and observing check point ops, the combined forces were searching a truck and confiscated the passports, which appeared to be from Iran, Jordan and Syria.

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Blackanthem Military News

Mail Clerk working hard at Liberty

By Spc. Jimmy Parker

Sgt. Michael Fredrickson, mail clerk, loads mail into a military container.  He joined the Arkansas National Guard on the 12 September, the day after 9-11.  Fredrickson is a member of Alpha Btry, 1st Bn, 206th Field Artillery, 168th BSB, 1st Sustainment Bde. At the age of 53, he is known to many as "Grandpa" for being the eldest member in his unit.

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MULTI-NATIONAL FORCE-IRAQ
PRESS DESK
BAGHDAD, Iraq

Pressure continues to expel al-Qaeda in Iraq (Baghdad)       

BAGHDAD –  In Baghdad on August 21, CF captured a man assessed to be plotting an attack against a SoI group that protects Iraqi civilians. He is suspected of associating with an alleged AQI cell leader captured Jul. 2.
A suspected AQI leader was captured in Mosul with 2 additional detainees August 21. The wanted man allegedly coordinates car-bombing and indirect fire attacks, and was reportedly behind the Oct. 22 attack on an IP station that killed 5 policemen.  Another op in Mosul targeting elements of the AQI financial network Thursday netted 4 suspects.
About 90 km south in Sharqat, CF detained 3 suspected terrorists August 21, including an alleged AQI leader there. The alleged leader is believed to oversee an illegal terrorist court system that imposes extremist ideals on Iraqi civilians.
CF captured a wanted man Thursday in Bayji, about 160 kilometers south of Mosul. The man is reportedly linked to several AQI leaders and may have a leadership role in Kirkuk’s terrorist network.
August 20, in Bayji, CF detained 3 suspects who allegedly operate in the overlapping foreign terrorist networks and bombing cells in the Tigris River Valley.
In a remote area near the Sinjar Mtns in northwest Iraq, CF identified and destroyed an AQI hideout August 20.

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Dear Interested Reader,
Outstanding progress is evident in Kirkuk province, while a wonderful program called Operation Iraqi Children, is distributing school supplies.  A kindergarten school has a grand reopening in Ghazaliyah, while displaced Iraqi families are returning to their homes.  Terrorists and criminals are detained or killed, and large weapons caches continue to be seized.
Joanna
______________________________

Aug. 21, 2008

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

A Return to Normalcy in Kirkuk

Photo and story by Spc. Jason Jordan

Maj. Peter Colt, 443rd CAB, plays with young Iraqi children in Gaydah village, which is in the Kirkuk province of northeastern Iraq.  Colt, along with 2nd Bn, 22nd Inf. Regt. Soldiers, met with the village leaders recently to discuss developments and projects that will benefit the area.

KIRKUK — In the southern Rishad valley of Kirkuk province lies the remote village of Gaydah, located several miles off the nearest main road and even further from the nearest substantial city or district.
Already accustomed to seclusion, the village residents were surprised when Soldiers from the 10th Mtn Div showed up in their community in February. The residents were more surprised when they announced that they would set up ops there; living and working with the residents for the next 2 months.
Operating from within a schoolhouse in the area, the Soldiers spent the next several weeks meeting with the villagers, providing humanitarian aid, rebuilding infrastructures, and planning future civil service projects.  The mission complete, Soldiers left. But they returned Aug. 20, along with members of the 443rd CAB, to receive updates and determine plans of action.
“The people of this village have been wary of the CF for the past several years because they have seen units come and go, and promises made that were never fulfilled,” said Capt. Gregory Hotaling, cmdr., Co D, 2-22 Inf. Regt. “We wanted to assure them that we were different, and to help prove our resolve, we lived among them in their impoverished community; experiencing for a short time the life they have always known.”
The community welcomed their friends back with open arms, grateful to see the Soldiers had kept their promise.  Leaders with the 2 units spent several hours inside the village mayor’s home, discussing the current situation of the area and future projects – while other Soldiers spent time talking and playing with the children outside.
Among the key issues discussed was the plan for a complete transfer of authority regarding the Iraqi infrastructure and planned projects.  “One of our main goals at this point is to put control of all future developments into the hands of the Iraqi people,” said Maj. Peter Colt, 443rd Bn. “We want Iraqi people in charge of Iraqi projects – using Iraqi money and Iraqi workers as soon as possible, which will further stabilize the country and allow our forces to withdraw. ”
Relationships such as the one occurring between U.S. Forces and the village of Gaydah are emerging all over the country, signifying the kind of change the world hoped to see when ops first began here.
Such changes have been increasingly evident in the Kirkuk region, where CF have witnessed security gains measured as a 67%  reduction in total attacks across the province, according to military reports.
“No matter how big or small our ops might be, we remain dedicated in our efforts to help the Iraqi people gain a new life,” said Sgt. Kody Lunstrum, 2-22 Inf. Regt.  Lunstrum’s sentiment is echoed by his fellow Soldiers, who witness the positive changes that the rest of the world cannot see. “When I talk to my family and friends back home, they want to know what it’s really like over here and if we are truly making a difference,” Hotaling said. “Each time, I have explained to them the kind of change they have not witnessed yet.  Battles and lethal ops have long ago ceased to be priorities.  Our focus now is a return to normalcy – living and working and interacting with the Iraqi people.  Positive changes are happening every day. They might not be big or flashy, but they are making lasting improvements that have already put victory for the Iraqi people within their reach.”

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Operation Iraqi Children Delivers in Baghdad       

By Sgt. Daniel Blottenberger

Sgt. Michael Daniels, a MP Soldier with the 716th MP Bn, 18th MP Bde, hands out school supplies.

BAGHDAD — Aug. 13, during an assistance mission named “Op Iraqi Children,” Soldiers from the 18th MP Bde lent a hand in the delivering of the school supplies to the local orphanage, as Soldiers from the 42nd FAR and IP teamed up to help the children prepare for school.
Op Iraqi Children, which began in 2003 and was founded by Laura Hillenbrand and Gary Sinise, is designed to distribute donated school supplies to needy children in Iraq, Afghanistan and Djibouti.  “Op Iraqi Children is a wonderful way for the people of the U.S. to help the children of Iraq, and by doing so, we are helping our Soldiers, who are working so hard over there,” said Sinise, on the Operation Iraqi Children Web site.
The IP and MND-B Soldiers will hand out more than 3,000 school supply kits that were donated to the children in Baghdad. The kits contain: a pencil bag, composition books, notebook paper, colored pencils, large eraser, a small pencil sharpener, pencils, ruler and scissors.
“The kits have been a huge hit with the local children,” said Capt. Nate Brookshire, 716th MP Bn. “The kits have also given the maneuver units and Police Transition Team a positive avenue to interact with local children with our Iraqi counterparts.” The 716th PTT has handed out more than 400 kits since mid-July to the children in Salhiya while on community policing patrols with the Salhiya IP.

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Kindergarten school in Ghazaliyah reopens after refurbishments

BAGHDAD - Following months of refurbishments, the Al Yasmeen Kindergarten School in the northwest Baghdad neighborhood of Ghazaliyah reopened during a ceremony, Aug. 17.  The school was previously closed due to extensive damage throughout the facility.
"The refurbishments included such things as trash removal, a fresh coat of paint for the classrooms and the building, refurbished bathrooms, new carpet, a playground and equipment for the gymnasium," said Capt. Joseph Sincere, with 1st Sqdrn, 75th Cav Regt, 2nd BCT, 101st Abn Div (AASLT).  There was also extensive damage to the roof as well as missing or broken windows that needed to be replaced, said Sincere.  New water tanks were also installed as well as new furniture for the administrative offices.
"I felt good about this project, in particular, because it is the only kindergarten in our [area of ops]," said Sincere. "Being able to offer these young children a good start at an education is important to me."
The squadron will continue to work with the GoI in opening additional schools in the Ghazaliyah area.  "Since the beginning of our squadron's ops in this area, there have been complete refurbishments of 5 schools," Sincere said. "We also have 5 ongoing projects and 8 that are being planned."

Attendees of the reopening of the Al Yasmeen Kindergarten School enjoy a meal after the reopening ceremony.
(Army photo by Sgt. Matthew Vanderboegh)

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MND-N Soldiers, ISF apprehend six terrorists

TIKRIT - An air insertion of MND - North Soldiers and Baqubah SWAT team members near the town of Abu Alapa Village in the Bani Sayd region Aug. 17, resulted in the apprehension of 6 terrorists.
Shortly after their insertion by 6 UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters belonging to 3rd Assault Helicopter Bn, 1st AR, the ground forces were attacked by 4 terrorists with small-arms fire and hand grenades. After their initial engagement, Iraqi SF and CF confirmed one terrorist killed and the other 3 attempted to escape into a nearby canal.
Two AH-64 Apache helicopters belonging to the 1st Attack Recon Bn and providing aerial security were given clearance to fire on the terrorists in the canal, and killed all 3.
The ground forces continued their mission without further incident and detained 2 other terrorists, while confiscating numerous automatic weapons, RPGs with rounds and a mortar tube with rounds.

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ISF, MND-B Soldiers seize weapons in Baghdad

Aug. 20,  at approx. 4 a.m., IP seized 10 60 mm mortar rounds, 9 rocket-propelled boosters, a RPG warhead and an anti-personnel grenade north of Baghdad.
Soldiers with Task Force 1st CAB, 6th Inf Regt, attached to 3rd BCT, 4th ID, and IA soldiers, seized 76 120 mm mortars in the Sadr City district of Baghdad at approx. 7:30 a.m.     
During cache clearance missions, Soldiers with Co C, 1st Bn, 14th Inf Regt, 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID, seized a .30-caliber rifle, an anti-aircraft gun mount, 7 .50-caliber machine guns, 4 14.5 mm anti-aircraft rounds, an SKS assault rifle, 4 M86 Russian-manufactured light machine guns, 5 M86 barrels and 2 M240 barrels at approx. 10:30 a.m. northwest of Baghdad.

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Displaced Iraqi families return to community

BAGHDAD - Soldiers from the 1st Bn, 22nd Inf Regt, 1st BCT, 4th ID, joined the Jihad Reconciliation Council and Iraqi SF leaders Aug. 19 to witness the return of 20 families to Hayy Jihad, in the Rashid district of southern Baghdad.
The event commemorated a return to stability due to the ongoing security efforts of Iraqi Security and CF and welcomed families previously driven out of the predominately Shia community due to sectarian violence and strife, said Capt. Ryan Gavin, cmdr of Co C, 1st Bn., 22nd Inf. Regt.
"The families that left, now feel secure enough to move back to the area and contacted their local leadership for permission," said Gavin. "The IA, with our support, decided the area is stable enough and the families pose no threat to the peace."
The committee returned approx. 600 displaced families within the last year, said Sheik Kwali, head of the Jihad Council, and the community hopes to welcome 240 more families to return to the Hayy Jihad area Aug. 23 during another ceremony.

SoI members help a relocated family move furniture into its home, Aug. 19.
(Army photo by Staff Sgt. Brent Williams)

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MND-B Soldiers detain key suspected criminal in Rashid

BAGHDAD - Aug. 20, at approx. 2:30 a.m., Soldiers from HHD, 1st BCT, 4th ID detained the suspect, an alleged Special Groups criminal leader, during search ops in the Abu T'shir community. The suspect is believed to be a cell leader conducting roadside bomb, indirect fire and direct fire attacks against MND-B forces.

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United and Prosperous II kicks off today

IRBIL - United and Prosperous II, a provincial budget conference aimed at resolving economic barriers and identifying action steps to exploit economic opportunities within the northern provinces of Iraq, will start Aug. 20 in Irbil. 
U&P II is the second conference of its kind.  The conference is a venue for the provincial leadership to engage with the various ministries within the GoI on economic and budgetary issues from within their provinces.
Ambassador Ryan Crocker, the U.S. ambassador to Iraq, Iraqi Prime Minister Barzani, Iraqi Dep. PM al-Issawi, Maj. Gen. Mark Hertling, the MND-North cmdr., and provincial governors from all 7 northern provinces with their deputies and council chairmen are expected to be in attendance.

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ISF discovers munitions cache in Rashid

FOB FALCON -  Aug. 19, at approx. 12:45 a.m., IP discovered 7 107 mm rockets, 3 107 mm mortar rounds, 17 90 mm mortar rounds, 13 60 mm mortar rounds, 6 anti-armor grenades, an anti-personnel RPG, a homemade bomb, 100 explosive fuses, approx. 200 rounds of ammo, and a two-way radio charger in the Risalah community.
"The 1st 'Raider' Brigade and ISF interact daily with the Iraqi citizens of the Rashid district," said Maj. Dave Olson, 1st BCT Spokesman, 4th ID, MND-B. "The Raider Bde with our ISF partners continues to provide a safe and secure environment for the people of Iraq.  We are in the process of assuming tactical over watch as some of the ISF units assume the lead in southern Baghdad."

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Raiders detain two, find weapons in separate operations

FOB FALCON -  In the Rashid district of southern Baghdad, at approx. noon Aug. 18 in the Saha neighborhood, IP detained a suspected Special Groups leader.  The individual had in his possession a 9 mm pistol, a bullet-proof vest, an SMG magazine, multiple false ID cards and more than 190 pieces of anti-Iraqi propaganda.
Soldiers from Co. D, 1st Bn., 22nd Inf., also arrested a known criminal at approx. 7:15 p.m., Aug. 18 in the Saha neighborhood.  Acting on a tip, soldiers discovered an 82 mm mortar tube without a base plate at approx. 12:15 a.m. Aug. 19 in the Saha neighborhood.

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Dear Interested Reader,
Leaders in Tarmiyah reaffirm their stand against extremists and militants.  Restoring and reopening of schools is the success story across Iraq, with Ramadi seemingly leading the way.  Comanche Troop's hard work pays off in security and stability in Abu T'shir.  MNC-Iraq will be celebrating National Airborne Day, Aug. 22, and we're hoping that our media shows up!  Suspected Militants and criminals are detained, and weapons caches seized.
Joanna
_______________________________________________________

Aug. 20, 2008

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

Leaders in Tarmiyah Reaffirm Their Stand Against Extremists, Militants     

Story and photo by Sgt. Whitney Houston

Sheik Saeed Jassim, sheik council chairman and local head of Tarmiyah govt, displays photos of a recent AQI attack to local clergy and govt officials at the Bukhari Hall in Tarmiyah, Aug. 14, 2008, as he condemns their acts and calls those gathered to action against terrorist activities.

BAGHDAD —  The reaffirmation was a reaction to a recent attack by AQI forces in the area that killed 5 people, to include women, children and a MND – Baghdad Soldier.
“Al-Qaida has tried to terrorize the population and make them cower with these attacks invoking their grip of fear on them,” said Lt. Col. Thomas Boccardi, 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID. “Tragedy results in 2 types of responses: it either galvanizes people, or it makes them cower. This attack had a galvanizing effect.”
“The people of Tarmiyah, after 4 years of torture, kidnappings and public slaughters, just really want to live out their lives in peace,” said Otu, an Arabic interpreter for CF. “They can’t tolerate terrorist activity anymore and face the risk of publicly condemning al-Qaida.”
Those attending said the public denunciation of the cowardly terrorist attacks would send a clear message that Tarmiyah and other regions throughout the nation are fed up with the killing of their loved ones. “This oath will show the media savvy al-Qieda operatives a crystal clear picture that there is no terrorist sanctuary in Tarmiyah, and the people will not bend to terrorists any longer,” said Boccardi. “The significance of this event was the reaffirmation of the locals to stand up against terrorism. Senior leaders of tribes, local govts and Iraqi SF all stood up and said: ‘We will not fear, and we’ll stand up against al-Qaida.’”
A recent AQI attack against CF was so significant in unifying local nationals with CF, said Boccardi, that those killed were honored as martyrs in “the good fight.” Among those so honored for their sacrifices was Sgt. Kenneth Gibson.
The attack reinforced the conclusion to the Tarmiyah citizens that the CF were there to assist and help stabilize. It further proved to be a testament of the joint sacrifices shared by local nationals and CF, explained Capt. Calvin Kline, fusion cell officer.
The message put out by the leaders of Tarmiyah is a lasting one in that it was broadcast nationwide so their fellow countrymen could bear witness to their stand against the terrorists.

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Educating Tomorrow’s Leaders in Ramadi       

Photo and story by Lance Cpl. Casey Jones

Lt. Col. Brett A. Bourne, the bn comm. officer of 1st Bn, 9th Marine Regt, RCT 1, along with Iraqi officials, cut the ribbon signaling the reopening of an industrial high school, August 13.

RAMADI — In a November 2006 Washington Post article, Abdul Jawad, the former dean of the College of Arts at Mustansiriya University in Baghdad, wrote, “The mass [violence in the country] underscores the chilling fact that the most dangerous place in Iraq is not the mosque, the marketplace or the military checkpoint, but the classroom.”
In sharp contrast to Jawad’s dim description of the country, the region is now rebuilding. Restorations and reopening of schools are taking place daily in Iraq, with Ramadi seemingly leading the way.
The Industrial High School in Ramadi was the latest school to open in the city. “It’s great that the city was able to get this school opened up,” said Khalid Salam, an asst. to the Dir. Gen. of Schools. “The school is going to be a wonderful institution not only for the students, but for all of Ramadi. As the youth of the city continue to earn an education, they will assist the city and the province in making their country prosperous.”
The project was a high priority for the city as the school will serve as an institution for young males seeking to learn valuable trades. Educators there will teach the students construction and electrical work, along with a variety of other skills. “Education is the key to any society’s advancement,” said Chief Warrant Officer 2 Eric Jett, a team leader with Civil Affairs Detachment 2. “This school will allow young people from all across al-Anbar to come and learn a trade. It also has the added benefit of getting the young males off the streets and giving them something productive to do. This school will give them opportunity to become functioning members of society.”

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Blackanthem Military News

Comanche Troop's hard work = improvements in Abu T'shir

Story and photo by Staff Sgt. Brent Williams

Staff Sgt. David Pena, a section leader and Sgt. 1st Class Thomas Yaudas, plt sgt, conduct an early morning dismounted patrol through the Abu T'shir Markets, Aug. 16 as part of their daily security ops in southern Baghdad's Rashid district.

FOB FALCON - For Staff Sgt. David Cox, a section leader for Blue Plt of "Comanche" Troop's mortar section, it is an area where his Soldiers patrol every night as they strive to make a difference for the Iraqi people.  "People come out and tell us that they appreciate us being there, and they appreciate what we're trying to do," Cox said. "And the ones who don't appreciate what we're trying to do are usually the guys (we are detaining) at 2 in the morning."
As the Soldiers of Comanche Troop, 7th Sqdrn, 10th Cav Regt, 1st BCT, 4th ID, make their presence known in the neighborhoods and communities in southeastern Baghdad, so do the special groups extremists, said Cox.  The gangs and militia are putting out propaganda and attempting to intimidate the local populace by creating the perception that they are in control, he said. The Iraqi citizens are starting to see that they don't want to be involved with those kinds of people anymore, he said. "They don't want them chasing their daughters, influencing their sons," he said. "The people are getting tired of that stuff, and I don't think their influence is that big here anymore."
The Blue Plt is the only element of Comanche Troop that patrols every night, said Spc. Joseph Henley, an infantry mortarman assigned to Troop C. "Our mission differentiates every night, but our main goal is to clean up the streets and help rebuild Abu T'shir and give Abu T'shir back to the people so they can live a free life," said Henley.
The Soldiers of White Plt only have one mission - to bring peace to Abu T'shir, said Staff Sgt. Jason Kennedy, section leader, Troop C.
"That is our only focus, no matter what it takes to get it done," said Kennedy. "That's the end state."  The Soldiers have seen a dramatic change since taking charge of security in the predominately Shia community that is home to approximately 75,000 Iraqis.  Kennedy credited much of the unit's success and the current security and stability in Abu T'shir and greater Baghdad to the surge of U.S. Forces that began in 2007 and ended little more than a month ago.  "I believe that it was a great idea," he said. "The strategic planning put us exactly where we are at today.  Even though the public and lot of govt officials didn't have faith, it really pulled us through."  He also said that the real transition in the attitude of the citizens started when the Soldiers of Comanche Troop began to meet face-to-face with the local Iraqis in hopes of establishing working relationships with the people, listening to their needs and talking candidly with them about basic problems, such as lack of electricity and employment.  "We try to keep them updated as far as what we know is happening and what is in the works," he said. "If we can keep them in a good flow of info, we hope that buys a little more patience, and that patience is our survival."
Little acts of kindness have also played a huge part in endearing the Soldiers to the local community, he said, citing one incident earlier in the week, when the Soldiers in his section collected $5 apiece and bought nearly 100 ice cream cones for a group of Iraqi children lined up outside a local vendor in Abu T'shir.
Staff Sgt. David Pena, a section leader assigned to Red Plt, said that his Soldiers conduct combined patrols daily with ISF to validate their presence within the Abu T'shir community. "The NP also go out on their own; they do their own patrols," added Pena, who is assigned to Troop C. "They are really high speed. I would compare them to a Joe - the way that they react is like a regular Army Soldier."  Pena, who is serving his third deployment in support of OIF, also noted that the IP and NPs responsible for the Rashid district provided 100% of the security for the pilgrimage routes Shiites use to travel to Karbala in observance of the Ascension of the 12th Imam, which occurred Aug. 16.  Pena said that he believes the current levels of security can be maintained as long as the CF and ISF continue to work with the citizens of Abu T'shir.
Pena said that on average, his Soldiers meet with more than 100 Iraqi citizens per week, and the residents of Abu T'shir continue to provide good tips about IEDs, weapons caches and the enemy. "We're always going to have spikes (in enemy activity), but I think overall we're going to be able to maintain," he said.

Staff Sgt. Jason Kennedy conducts a patrol brief Aug. 15 with IP at an Abu T'shir IP Patrol Base on Market Street.

Sgt. Richard Barth, a psychological ops NCO, assigned to the 312th Tactical Psychological Ops Co, and attached to the 1st BCT, 4th ID, posts a wanted poster on the door of an abandoned house in Abu T'shir Aug. 15, where a weapons cache was discovered the night before.  Soldiers of the Raider BCT, responsible for providing security to the 1.5 million residents of the Rashid district, are collecting tips and info in anticipation of a return of Special Groups leaders into southern Baghdad.

 Sgt. Michael Benoit, a cav scout assigned to Troop C, takes photos of a local Iraqi shop Aug. 16 as part of the microgrant application process.  Soldiers of "Comanche" Troop are enrolling local Iraqi business owners from the Abu T'shir community in southern Baghdad's Rashid district for the purpose of small business donations designed to stimulate the local Iraqi economy.

    

Staff Sgt. Jason Kennedy leads point on a combined patrol Aug. 15 with IP from the Abu T'shir patrol base located off Abu T'shir's Market Street in the Rashid district of southern Baghdad. 

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Muqdadiyah SWAT detains four suspected terrorists in separate operations

BALAD - Muqdadiyah SWAT detained 3 suspected members of an AQI IED and rocket cell, Aug. 17.  One of the suspects is said to be the primary leader of the cell consisting of approximately 10 members. During the op, SWAT confiscated 8 120 mm mortar rounds believed to be intended for use against CF.
In a separate op Aug. 16, Muqdadiyah SWAT detained a suspected terrorist believed to be an intel officer for the network. Reports indicate the man also served as an intel officer for the former regime under Saddam Hussein.

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ISF capture two suspected criminals in separate operations

BAGHDAD - Aug. 16, Iraqi SOF captured a suspected criminal and detained 2 others in the Baghdad area. The suspected criminal is said to be a top financier for criminal elements allegedly extorting money from the local Iraqis to finance weapons. He is believed to be responsible for conducting and ordering IED and EFP attacks on Iraqi and CF.  Reports indicate he has connections to Iranian weapons suppliers who supply him with EFPs.
In a separate op, al-Amarah SWAT team arrested a suspected criminal on a Ministry of Interior warrant.  The suspect is wanted for attempted murder and terrorizing local Iraqis.

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Media Advisory: MNC-Iraq Celebrates National Airborne Day

WHO:        All media
WHAT:     MNC-Iraq celebrates National Airborne Day (Aug. 16, 1940) and the XVIII Airborne Corps birthday (Aug. 25, 1944).
Celebration includes a performance by the 82nd Airborne Division Chorus and comments by Lt. Gen. Lloyd J. Austin III, MNC - I commanding general and Command Sgt. Maj. Joseph R. Allen, MNC - I command sergeant major.
WHEN:     Aug. 22, at 10 a.m., Media should plan to arrive no later than 9:30 a.m.
WHERE:    Al Faw Palace, Camp Victory, Baghdad
WHY:      Sixty-one years ago, 48 brave volunteer members of the U.S. Army Parachute Test Platoon pioneered a new method of warfare. Their successful jump led to the creation of a mighty force of more than 100,000 paratroopers.  Aug. 22 is a day when we can reflect on the bravery of our Airborne pioneers, their contributions to our profession and our country - and be proud of the fact that we continue the Airborne tradition of excellence.

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MULTI-NATIONAL FORCE-IRAQ
PRESS DESK
BAGHDAD, Iraq

Iraqi and Coalition forces nab three wanted men       

BAGHDAD – Iraqi and CF targeted AQI leaders and networks, detaining 12 suspects August 18 and August 19 during ops in central and northern parts of the country.
Iraqi and CF captured a regional AQI leader in Kirkuk August 18. The wanted man reportedly manages a network that provides components for homemade explosives from Basra to Mosul.
In Bayji August 18, CF detained a suspect while targeting associates of senior leaders in a suicide bombing network.  Five suspected terrorists were detained during another op in Bayji August 19 when CF targeted members of a bombing network in the Tigris River Valley.
CF in Baghdad captured a wanted man August 19 who is assessed to be a senior AQI operative in the southern part of the capital.
In Mosul, CF captured a man who reportedly plants roadside bombs and conducts bombing attacks against Iraqi civilians and the SF that protect them. Three additional suspects were detained in the op August 19.

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Dear Interested Reader,
There's an incredible story of females being trained at the Kirkuk Police Academy; what courage!  There are wonderful additional photos to yesterday's wheelchair story.  Our compassionate soldiers along with the IA have renovated or reconstructed most of the schools in the Jamilla area in time for the new school year.  Huge munitions caches seized throughout Baghdad and Ambar. Criminals and terrorist elements are being detained throughout Iraq.
Joanna
________________________________________

Aug. 19, 2008

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

Kirkuk Police Academy trains females in northeastern Iraq

 

Female Iraqi Police recruits show up to their first day of training.

Kirkuk - Thirty-seven females attended the first day of a four-week course at the Kirkuk Police Academy outside of Kirkuk city, Aug. 16. It's been a year since the academy has seen any Iraqi females in blue and never a class of this size.
"We need these females badly," said Lt. Col. Muid, a cadre at the academy. "It is our religious custom not to touch our women, so we cannot search females. Our female IP will be extremely important to use at checkpoints and govt buildings throughout the province." The cadre also pointed out they would bring a different perspective to policing. "Women think differently than men," Muid said. "They will bring fresh ideas to how we conduct business."
The 37 females are split into squad-like elements. Each squad will have a 1st Bde, 10th Mtn female MP Soldier assist them.  "This is going to be a big challenge," said Spc. Jennifer Swierk, one of the assistants, referring to the cultural differences, "but I'm proud to be a part of this page in Kirkuk's, if not Iraq's history."
For Nowal, 30, the experience so far has her realizing she has a lot of work ahead of her. "I am very tired," said Nowal of the first day of training.  Nowal's brother is a member of the Kirkuk police force.
In lieu of the recent increase in female suicide bombers, these women are undaunted by the dangers of the field they have chosen.  When asked what they would do if they were to spot one at a checkpoint, as a group they did not hesitate to answer "Man or woman, if you come through our checkpoint, we will stop you." 
"Terrorists are not welcome in the province of Kirkuk," said Intesar, 29.  She elaborated further regarding female suicide bombers. "They are not Iraqis. They are not Muslim. It is not our way."
The police force is also providing some women with much needed jobs.  "I have a 5-year-old son I have to feed," said Jinan, whose husband was killed by criminal elements.  "I will be able to take care of my son and also help ensure he has a safe future here."
The women have to fulfill the same standards as the males to graduate. The Ministry of Interior's standards is 240 hours of training, to include 2 hours of calisthenics each morning and various drills geared toward team building. The rest of the day is spent rotating from indoor to outdoor classroom instruction on law enforcement procedures ranging from democratic policing, human rights, hostage survival, basic first aid, to responding to an ambush. The only adjustments the cadres have had to make is utilizing a stick so they don't physically make contact with their female recruits.
"This is going to be an amazing experience for all of us," Bustamante said. "I'm looking forward to helping my fellow female police officers and being a part of the positive historic changes occurring here."

Sgt. 1st Class Sumalee Bustamante, a MP officer with the 1st Bde, 10th Mtn Div, corrects the hand position of a female IP recruit at parade rest during the first day of training. 
(Army photo by Staff Sgt. Margaret C. Nelson)

A female IP recruit takes a lap as punishment in temps. in the 100s, for addressing the cadre as 'sir,' not 'sgt' or 'cadre', which was put out by their instructors during the first day of training.

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Wheelchair distribution pictures outside of Balad

"See attached for pictures from last Saturday's wheelchair distribution in the North!
An MP unit out of Balad knew these kids well, and has tried all year to get wheelchairs for these kids through the American Red Cross and different aid agencies, but to no avail.  Rewind to 2005 when I was at H2 in Mosul to one of the Chaplains I knew.  We lost touch when he left in late 05, but in March '08, we ran into each other in the DFAC at Speicher.  Fast forward to the present.  Turns out this Chaplain is responsible for these MP guys on Balad.  When he heard of their search for wheelchairs, he told them about my WFIK project.  They contacted me just at the right time in late July, because I had just received the shipment of 150 chairs from the states.  God works in myterious ways, doesn't he?  ha ha.  They came down to my location and carried the chairs back to their AO.
 The boy has a hole in his heart & can't walk but a step or two at a time at 2.5 years.  This not only helped the boy and boosted the morale of the troops who promised to help him earlier this year (they were able to come through on their promise), but also won the troops lots of credibility with the boy's father, as he's an Iraqi Police Chief.  They've already noticed a greater level of willingness and cooperation in that area of operations.
 The girl is paralyzed & mentally challenged, but drags herself to the gate everyday to wait on the soldiers who walk by so she can wave and maybe get a piece of candy.  The troops have grown to love her, as she's really a nice girl who just beams when they give her attention.  Now that she has the wheelchair, she'll be able to get around easier.  Her parents will be able to get her out more and help her develop mentally and socially.

Brad"

Check out this website if you want to help with this project:  http://www.wheelchairsforiraqikids.com/

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Blackanthem Military News

School cleanup, reconstruction finished

Story and photo by Sgt. Philip Klein

MND - Baghdad Soldiers with Task Force 1st Bn, enter the newly renovated al-Faw Intermediate School to get a look at the work completed by Iraqi contractors, August 14.  

BAGHDAD - The MND-B effort was led by Task Force 1st Bn, 6th Inf Regt, 2nd BCT, 1st Armored Div, who with their Iraqi partners have renovated most of the schools in the Jamilla area including Thawra 1 and 2. "Nearly every school will be ready to open when school starts at the end of August," said Lt. Col. Brian Eifler, cmdr. of Task Force 1st Bn., which is based out of Baumholder, Germany, and currently attached to the 3rd BCT, 4th ID.
The school renovations are part of the larger reconstruction ops by the IA and MND-B Soldiers designed to improve the living conditions of residents of these Sadr City neighborhoods.  Eifler gives much of the credit to the IA and the District Advisory Council which is made up of the elected representatives of Sadr City. "This renovation effort would not have been possible without the IA and the DAC coming together to get the job done for the children of Sadr City," said Eifler.
Ali Sewadi, a leading member of the Sadr City DAC, said the school renovations are just a small part of the work being done for the people of Sadr City.  "We are also working on improving our hospitals, infrastructure and basic services.  These are all priorities for our district," said Sewadi. "The area south of the wall is improving every day, but it is important that we begin work north of the wall to the neighborhoods that have not benefitted from the good works we are conducting because of the threats from Special Group criminals, who care nothing for the people of Sadr City," he continued.
The DAC was a defunct organization until the IA established a presence in Sadr City, and even after a deadly bombing there the local leaders are determined to make a difference for their community with the opportunity of renewed security.
"The work we have done for our neighborhoods on this school is an important step to normalizing the lives of the people we represent, who want security and the chance to improve their conditions for themselves and for their children," concluded Sewadi.

Lt. Col. Brian Eifler speaks to reps of the Sadr City District Advisory Council and the IA at the al-Faw Intermediate School.

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IA, MND-B Soldiers discover munitions throughout Baghdad

BAGHDAD - Aug. 17, at approx. 9:15 a.m., IA soldiers found 14 blocks of Iranian-manufactured C4 explosive material, 3 RPG propellant sticks, an S5K rocket, 2 RPG heat rounds, 112 AK-47s , 9 SKS rifles, an RPK machine gun, 2 Sterling submachine guns, an Iraqi-manufactured hand grenade, 5 anti-personnel IEDs, a passive infrared sensor window with trigger, 22 blasting caps, 100 5.56mm linked rounds of ammo and a variety of bomb-making materials in the Hurriya area of northwestern Baghdad.
Approx. 5 hours later, a local resident turned in a land mine, 2 120 mm mortars, an 80 mm mortar, a 70 mm mortar, 2 training bombs, a 120 mm projectile ordinance and 50 57 mm projectiles to Soldiers from Co C, 2nd Bn, 14th Cav Regt, 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID, in the Falahat area northwest of Baghdad.

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IA soldiers find large cache in Anbar

KARMAH -  North of Karmah, Aug. 17,  IA soldiers found the cache buried in an underground container during a mounted patrol.  The cache included 100 120 mm mortar rounds, 13 82 mm mortar systems, 300 82 mm mortar rounds, a 60 mm mortar system, 35 60 mm mortar rounds, 100 60 mm mortar fuses, 5 RPG-7 launchers, 150 30 mm rockets, 70 73 mm rockets, 45 rocket charges, 4 57 mm rockets, 11 C-5 rockets, 5 C-5 rocket tubes, a 155 mm artillery shell, 8 artillery fuses, 200 rounds of 20 mm ammo, 50 rounds of 30 mm ammo, more than 29,000 rounds of 14.7 mm ammo, 150 7.62 mm rounds, 4 14.7 mm barrels, a PK machine gun, 4 AT-3A Sagger missiles, an AT-2C Swatter missile, an AT2C sight system, 7 sticks of TNT, 3 gas masks, 3 battery charges, a flare gun, 2 cell phones, detonation cord and 250 lbs of artillery propellant.

   

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ISF cracks down on terrorists and criminal elements throughout Iraq

BALAD - During a patrol Aug. 15 in Rubiah, approx. 103 km SE of Mosul, the IA detained a suspected forger of passports and other documents.  IA confiscated several passports, fraudulent documents and forgery equipment believed to enable movement across the Iraqi and Syrian borders and throughout Iraq of foreign fighters and members of the ISI, a front org. for AQI.    
Iraqi SOF detained 5 suspected ISI cell members on a local warrant in Mosul, Aug. 14. The men are believed to be part of a sleeper cell suspected of conducting IED attacks against Iraqi and CF.
On Aug. 13 in Mosul, the IA detained the suspected ISI leader of an IED cell operating in several neighborhoods throughout the area.  In another op Aug. 13, in ad Dujayl, 60 km north of Baghdad, the IA detained a suspected criminal said to be the primary weapons cache facilitator for criminal element networks. 
On Aug. 11 in Baqubah, the IA detained the suspected leader and facilitator of a nationalist group reportedly established after AQI was driven out of the area. The group is allegedly responsible for rocket and IED attacks against CF.
In a separate op Aug. 11, ISOF detained a suspected criminal in East Rashid whose cell reportedly uses IEDs to threaten the local populace working for the GoI to quit their jobs. The cell is believed to have conducted IED attacks against a CF convoy in Tunis last year.
On Aug. 10, the Salah ad Din SWAT team recovered a weapons cache in Tikrit containing mortar rounds and high explosives.
In Karmah Aug. 9, the IA and Fallujah SWAT detained 4 suspected key leaders of an AQI terrorist intel-gathering cell and 3 others.  The cell reportedly gathers info on local Iraqis and IP working with CF to propagate fear.

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MND-B Soldiers detain known criminals in Rashid

BAGHDAD - Aug. 17, at approx. 3:30 a.m. in the Aamel community, Soldiers from Co A, 1st Bn, 22nd Inf Regt, 1st BCT, 4th ID, detained 2 key criminals during search ops.
At approx. 5:15 a.m. in an Aamel neighborhood, Soldiers from Co. A detained a 3rd individual and returned to a CF COP with the suspect for processing.

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Friendly Greeting

Mrs. Rafaat Husseim, Head Mistress of the Um Myman Secondary School for Girls in Muhallah UZ-2 in Eastern Baghdad, greets U.S. Army 2nd Lt. Christine Miller of HQ Co, Bde Special Troops Bn, 4th BCT, 10th Mtn Div, Aug. 10, 2008.  The Lt's unit is conducting an assessment of the school.
Photo by Staff Sgt. Brian Lehnhardt

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Dear Interested Reader,
Special MiTTs are assisting and developing IP systems, and makes for most interesting reading, as well as the heart warming story of 2 children receiving wheel chairs, because of the compassion of our troops and some special civilians.    Iraqi soldiers taking the lead in Bayji is a sure sign of progress.  Huge weapon and munition caches are seized, and many criminals and terrorists are detained.
Joanna
_____________________________________

Aug. 18, 2008

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

Special Transition Teams Assist, Develop Iraqi Police Systems     

Photo and story by Sgt. Daniel Blottenberger

Master Sgt. Kevin Emory, who serves with the 95th MP Bn’s ePTT, discusses fuel distribution ops with the cmdr. of the Rusafa Directorate Maintenance Facility.

BAGHDAD — In January 2008, MND – Baghdad’s 18th MP Bde developed a new method to further improve the surging IP force by implementing the enhanced Police Transition Teams to concentrate on supporting IP systems in Baghdad.
The ePTT is a group of Soldiers who have subject matter expertise in: personnel, communications and logistic ops and techniques in support of large orgs.  Their mission is to assess the IP organization and provide assistance to better the organizational management of the IPs in these areas.  Since then, the ePTTs have been embedding with the IP force at the directorate and provincial levels to help improve the IP systems management process.
“The IP leadership is taking advice from the ePTTs and taking responsibility for their stations while feeling more comfortable working with the recommendations made by the ePTT subject matter experts, who are improving the IP systems in Baghdad,” said Lt. Col. Thomas Lombardo, ops officer, 18th MP Bde., during a recent assessment visit of the ePTTs in Baghdad.
Prior to January, the CF and Int'l Police Advisors, who are civilian law enforcement officers from the U.S., hired by DynCorp, were both working on IP systems, but the partner trainers were not combining their efforts. Under the new ePTT, the 2 orgs. are now working together.
Several areas one team was working on during this particular week were fuel consumption, distribution and accountability in several facets. “We are trying to get a handle on the fuel corruption, issuing out of supplies and equipment, payroll issues, training new and previous IP and investigation techniques,” said Capt. Shannon Nowak.
Besides these specific areas, the main job of the ePTT is to partner side by side with the IP as they perform their daily jobs and provide assistance to improve the IP systems capabilities. “The team is at the directorate almost daily, working right alongside the IP to improve their systems,” said Nowak.
In contrast to the standard Police Transition Team, the PTT at the station levels around Baghdad are run by MP Soldiers. Their roles are to train the IP and teach them how to conduct community policing in the areas they are assigned.
Despite the challenges the ePTT face, the Soldiers are out there every day working with the IP at the directorate level to further improve the force in order for the IP to provide rule of law to the Iraqi people in Baghdad.

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Military Police, Civilian Donate Wheelchairs to Iraqi Children     

Story and photo by Amanda Tucker

Spc. Marisol Riley, a driver for the 164th MP Co, screws a part into place on a wheelchair for an Iraqi child, August 4, 2008.

JOINT BASE BALAD — MP sponsors, a chaplain and one huge-hearted civilian reached out to help the local community in Balad, by giving 2 handicapped Iraqi children wheelchairs recently.
Members of the 164th MP Co based out of Fort Richardson, Alaska, and currently commanded by 18th MP Bde; go in sector on a daily basis, patrolling surrounding areas and helping to improve the capabilities at IP checkpoints. However, the company does much more than that. The MP have become a part of the community and felt the need to help 2 children who cannot walk.
Capt. Matthew Norris, 18th MP Bde., started looking for a wheelchair after he discovered an IP chief’s son who had a hole in his heart, causing the 2-year-old boy to have muscle weakness.  Once other Soldiers in the unit heard about the cmdr’s idea, they began to inquire about the need for a wheelchair for an 8-year-old Iraqi girl near another checkpoint in Balad.
According to Sgt. Keith Banks, MP team leader, his squad would go out to a checkpoint in Balad where the girl was at regularly. The little girl would always peak out of her house from her gate in curiosity at the MP. “At one point, I got a good look at her and saw that she was walking on her hands; so that brought concern to us,” said the Malvern.
Norris went to multiple orgs. trying to acquire the wheelchairs.  He finally succeeded when he talked to Capt. Jay Clark, chaplain, 728th MP Bn. Clark was able to provide the wheelchairs with the help of Brad Blauser, a humanitarian volunteer, who started the Wheelchairs for Iraqi Children program.  Clark and Blauser had initially met on a prior deployment, when Brad told the chaplain about the program ‘Wheelchairs for Iraqi Children.’ “We went through… ins and outs of trying to get it all connected but once we did, Brad was excited to take the project on and I was excited to be here for it,” said Clark.
Norris, Banks, Clark and Blauser delivered the wheelchairs on a hot Saturday afternoon.  Blauser showed the parents of the children how to properly adjust the wheelchair to accommodate the child as they grew.  Sweat dripped off of the civilian’s nose as he worked, but it was nothing in comparison to the smile that seemed to never fade as he put forth the effort.
According to Blauser, Iraq has the largest population of handicapped people in the world with 10 percent of Iraq’s population is disabled.  Iraq has more than 28 million people, with roughly 3 million people disabled, and if just 5%  of that 3 million are children, it’s 150,000 kids who need a wheelchair. Thanks to combined efforts of the MP, chaplain and a humanitarian volunteer, 2 children in Balad no longer have to wait for one.

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Blackanthem Military News

Iraqis Take the Lead

Story and photo by Sgt. Rick Rzepka

Maj. Oscar Pintado speaks with his Iraqi counterpart during a mission to find weapons caches in the western desert near Bayji.

BAYJI - Iraqis taking care of Iraqis.  This is the shape of things to come here. Garnering the trust and cooperation of the Iraqi people, IA bns near the oil rich town of Bayji, have made the turn.  No longer is the burgeoning IA being coddled by their American counterparts.  Rather, according to MiTT Soldiers of the 1st Bn, 327th Inf Regt, Iraq's defenders are confident, determined and capable of securing its citizens.
As violence tapers off across the country, Iraq's SF are increasingly taking responsibility for the security of the people.  Seen as a critical component of success here, Iraq's Army has grown from a pocket-sized force in 2004, to a military monolith that has earned the trust of the people and the respect of its Coalition partners.
"In the last 11 months, they have made a 180 degree turnaround," said Maj. Oscar Pintado, who leads 1-327th's MiTT Team.  "They are now conducting unilateral ops at the bn level throughout their area of ops with little or no Coalition support," he said.
The support they do receive comes from the Soldiers of Pintado's advisor team, who serve at teachers, trainers and mentors for the maturing army. "We operate as a bn staff, trainers and combat advisors," said Pintado whose 13-man team lives and works with their IA counterparts.
By design, MiTT teams encompass a wide range of military specialties and ranks, which offers the IA a well rounded training experience.  The Soldiers, who range from the rank of Staff Sgt. to Major, are experts in specialties like supply, infantry, medical, intel and communications.  They seek to broaden the IA's toolkit by providing them the skills they need to operate at a level necessary to win the peace.
According to Pintado the development of the IA has been a major factor in reducing violence in the province and demonstrates to the people that the IA is a legitimate and well disciplined force.  "Their presence has allowed the people to feel more secure and has opened doors for more cooperation between the population and the IA in general," he said.
For the 1-327 MiTT, leading by example has paid dividends that will have long lasting effects. "They see you there sweating, operating, eating and training with them, and they will be more open to listen and learn from you, but most importantly, they will want to show you that they can do it and are as capable as you are," said Pintado.

 Oscar Pintado shakes hands with an IA Soldier during a recent mission near Bayji.  Pintado's MiTT Soldiers are responsible for training and advising 2 IA bns in the area.

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IA, MND-C Soldiers locate large weapons cache

BAGHDAD - Near the border town of Amarah, Aug. 16, IA Soldiers accompanied by MND-C Soldiers, found 250 EFP plates, 125 107 mm rockets, 2 rocket launchers, 15 120 mm mortars, a mortar tube and 2 sniper rifles.
"As a police officer, it's going to be very successful to work with the [CF], and things will get better in our area," said 2nd Lt. Asaf of the Amarah IP.
The plates found can be used to create extremely dangerous armor-piercing projectiles, which pose a significant threat to ISF and CF. This cache contains the largest number of EFP components discovered in Maysan Province since 2007.

IA soldiers discovered a large weapons cache.

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IA, MND-B Soldiers seize numerous weapons, munitions caches across Baghdad

BAGHDAD - Aug. 16, based on a tip from a local resident, Iraqi soldiers located a cache in Kadhamiyah, consisting of a RPG launcher, 2 SPG-9 rounds, 2 RPG propellants, 4 magazines for sniper rifles, a silencer, 2 license plates, a registration card and various bomb-making materials.  While seizing the cache, soldiers from the same unit found a secondary cache in the same vicinity, consisting of 2 RPG-7 rounds, 4 anti-armor RPG-7 rounds, 2 blocks of TNT, 2 RPG propellants, 300 PKC rounds, an Egyptian grenade and various bomb-making and propaganda material.
IA soldiers also seized 10 EFPs and 3 electric blasting caps from the roof of the Ministry of Trade building in the Sadr City district of Baghdad.
Other IA soldiers seized IA and CF uniforms, 20 ID cards, 4 passports, a vehicle document and CF medical equipment in Kadhamiyah.
Approx. 2 hours later, Soldiers from the 1st Bn, 21st Inf Regt, serving with the 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID, based on a tip by a local resident, seized 3 57 mm rockets, an RPG, a 60 mm mortar, an AK-47 rifle with 200 rounds of ammo and 150 pounds of ammonium nitrate fuel mix northwest of Baghdad.
Approx. 15 minutes later, IA soldiers seized 32 AK-47 rifles, 5 SKS rifles, 3 body armor vests, a Russian gas mask and binoculars while conducting a search op in Kadhamiyah.

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Marine Corps Leader Visits Camp Fallujah, Speaks About Progress       

By Cpl. Chris T. Mann

CAMP FALLUJAH — Gen. James T. Conway, commandant of the Marine Corps, visited service members and toured the local battlefield shared by Marine units of Regimental Combat Team 1 on Aug. 16.  During his visit, the commandant spoke with Col. Lewis A. Craparotta, comm. officer, RCT-1, and surveyed progress service members are making in Fallujah and the surrounding regions.  “I don’t think anyone would have predicted that the al-Anbar province would become a model for elsewhere in the nation,” said Conway, during a town hall meeting aboard the camp.
Conway and Craparotta convoyed with a group of Marines from Camp Fallujah to Camp Blue Diamond in Ramadi, where he met with several commanders and other staff to discuss joint efforts between service members and IP and Army.
Following the meeting with IA officials, Conway returned to Camp Fallujah for a town hall meeting at the Chapel of Hope.  Marines and other service members aboard Camp Fallujah packed tightly into the chapel to listen to what he and Sgt. Maj. Carlton W. Kent, the Sgt Major of the Marine Corps, had to say.  The commandant delivered a message to Marines and other service members about developments in the region.  “What you have today is a very likeable condition in the al-Anbar province, and again, that is good remarks for the rest of Iraq,” he said.
Conway also spoke to the crowd about repeated deployments to combat environments Marines are currently facing. He said he is pushing for longer periods of time for Marines to stay in the United States before deploying again to places like Iraq or Afghanistan.

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MULTI-NATIONAL FORCE-IRAQ
PRESS DESK
BAGHDAD, Iraq

Coalition forces thwart al-Qaeda bombers, facilitators (Baghdad)       

BAGHDAD – CF detained 8 suspected terrorists in central and northern Iraq August 17, while targeting AQI operatives who bring foreigners into Iraq and coordinate bombings.
CF disrupted an AQI bombing network in the Tigris River Valley during 2 related ops.  In Tikrit, about 160 km north of Baghdad, the force used info from an op Jul. 9 to capture an alleged senior member of the bombing network and another suspect. The alleged senior member reportedly coordinates the movement of suicide bombers and foreign terrorists within the network.  Farther up the valley in Bayji, CF detained another suspect believed to be tied to suicide bombings within the same network.
In Baghdad, CF captured a wanted man and an associate reportedly working for the AQI foreign terrorist facilitation network that has developed in the city. Two wanted men and an associate were detained in Bi’aj, about 130 km southwest of Mosul, for their suspected ties to the AQI foreign terrorist facilitation network operating in the Jazirah desert.

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 Colorful Kids

Young Iraqi girls hang out outside a security meeting with Mayor Dr. Mohammed at his residence after getting Gatorade drinks from U.S. Army Soldiers from 1st Sqdrn, 3rd ACR, in Jadellah Sofia, Aug. 4, 2008.
Photo by Pfc. Sarah De Boise

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Dear Interested Reader,
There is an in-depth story about the successful use of UAVs, as well as a story about an important business development conference to provide contract registration training.  Iraqi Air Force graduates the largest training class to date.  Our troops, as well as IA soldiers are kept busy detaining many insurgents and criminals, while seizing many weapons and munition caches.
Joanna
_________________________________________

Aug. 18, 2008

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

Iraqi Air Force Graduates Largest Training Class to Date

By Senior Master Sgt. Trish Freeland

An Iraqi Air Force warrant officer waves a flag on top of a human pyramid at the conclusion of the basic military graduation at Al Taji Air Base, Aug. 11, 2008.
Photo by Staff Sgt. Paul Villanueva II

TAJI — The Iraqi Air Force training school graduated its third and largest basic military training class here, August 11. Nine Iraqi officers and ten warrant officers led 283 of their fellow countrymen through a rigorous physical and academic regimen that transformed them from ordinary citizens to professional Airmen.
The instructor cadre is assisted by a group of 65 U.S. Air Force advisors from the 370th Expeditionary Training sqdrn., part of the overall Coalition Air Force training team.  Lt. Col. Michael Dilda, deployed from Offutt Air Force Base, Neb., commands the team.  He said in addition to graduation, the school can celebrate reaching some key goals within the basic military training program. “When CF stood up this school they worked with the Iraqis to set up goals they wanted to achieve within a certain amount of time,” said Dilda. “Some of the goals reached include the ability to run 4 training programs at the same time, having fully renovated facilities with the ability to house 500 students, and the availability of qualified Iraqi instructors to lead the courses. Today’s class represents the attainment of those goals in the BMT [basic military training] program.”
Lt. Saef Ali, a lead trainer/supervisor, has been working as a trainer for 6 months. He’s encouraged by the commitment of his trainees.
“These guys are not afraid of anything. They come to training and don’t let anyone stop them. “They want to serve their country,” he continued. “I feel proud to say I’m a lieutenant in the Iraqi Air Force.” The lieutenant also displayed gratitude for the guidance received from the USAF advisors. “Sometimes, we had problems with water or uniforms and our advisors helped us work it out,” he said. “We are very grateful for their help.”
The Air Force training school also operates an Air Force academy, basic technical training and English language training.  In just over a year, the school’s cadre and advisors have trained and graduated 526 warrant and commissioned officers from the school’s various training programs.
“In the next BMT class, the Iraqi instructors will have even more responsibility as the USAF advisors transition from a full teaching function to equal parts advising and instructing,” said Dilda.

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Blackanthem Military News

UAVs role key ingredient to success of MND-B operations

By Sgt. Jason Dangel

Spc. Raymond Poltera, Tactical UAV operator, 1st BCT, 4th ID, launches an RQ-7B Shadow 200 TUAV from a pneumatic launcher at the aircraft's primary launch and recovery site on Camp Taji, Aug. 11.  As the leading provider and provisional authority for the MND-B's airspace, the 4th ID's CAB, which is based out of Fort Hood, Texas, provides and maintains the launch and recovery site for the entire fleet of Shadow TUAVs.
(U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Jason Dangel)

CAMP TAJI - Since the initial development of the UAV approximately ten years ago, its use in the Global War on Terror has increased tenfold and provides vigilant recon for almost all combat ops in MND-B, thus helping to provide troops an added edge against the enemy.
With sophisticated optics, cameras and communications equipment, the Shadow provides cmdrs. on the ground the ability to quite literally see the entire battlefield in real time.
"For the most part, we have a UAV on station for the majority of missions that involve the capture of high-value targets or terrorists," explained Maj. Jonathan Shaffner, brigade aviation officer and chief of ops, 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID.  Shaffner gave an example of the Shadow's ability, citing an op recently conducted by his Soldiers north of Baghdad.  Soldiers were required to find and capture a suspected militant responsible for hostile acts against CF and the Iraqi people. Upon entering the residence of the suspect, Soldiers found that the criminal wasn't there. At the same time however, the Shadow was honed in on a suspicious vehicle nearby the scene.
With the camera fixed on the vehicle, the TUAV operator reported to the ground cmdr. of the situation at which time 2 male subjects fled from the vehicle and attempted to hide in a nearby canal. With precise accuracy, the Shadow operator reported the location of the 2 individuals to the ground Soldiers, who then apprehended the suspects - one of whom was the criminal they were looking for.
The event is just one off the hundreds of examples of how brigade's all over MND-B use the TUAVs, Shaffner said.

Launch and Recovery:
All launch and recovery ops are strictly the responsibility of Co G, 2nd Bn, 4th AR, CAB, 4th ID. The co. is unique in that unlike a conventional unit, Co. G, which is also known as the "Guardian Angels," is collectively made up of Soldiers from all across the MND-B area of ops.  UAV operators are assigned to their respective BCTs throughout theater, but one platoon from each unit is sent to Camp Taji for a predetermined amount of time to help operate the launch and recovery site.
"All the aircraft are prepared and launched from here," said Sgt. 1st Class Michael Horwath, who is the senior NCO of the co. "Our guys fly them out, hand them off to the BCTs in theatre and, at that time, the specific brigade TUAV elements actually fly the missions.
"At the conclusion of a Shadow mission, the brigades route the aircraft back into our airspace and the UAV operators here pick the aircraft back up and land them. Once they land, we conduct maintenance and prep them for another mission."
The air vehicle uses a pneumatic launcher on take-off and is recovered by a tactical automatic landing system - with no pilot intervention on the runway. The aircraft is then stopped using an arresting hook and cable system similar to the ones used on U.S. Navy aircraft carriers.
"We never overlook anything when it comes to maintenance," explained Spc. Cesar Castro, a UAV operator with 2nd BCT, 101st Abn. Div.  "Everything we do, in terms of maintaining the aircraft, is annotated by inputting info into our computer system. We keep track of just about anything you can think from actual flight hours to required services and inspections." 

Cost Effective, Fuel Efficient and Safe:
On a comparative basis, the Shadow is relatively cheap when you compare it with conventional U.S. Army aircraft. Each system includes 3 to 4 aircraft, 2 ground stations, a launch trailer and support vehicles for equipment and personnel.  Each system costs roughly $10 million depending on equipment dynamics and accessories.
When compared to an AH-64D Apache Attack helicopter, which many times are used for some of the same recon missions as the Shadows, the price differential and fuel consumption is astronomically lower.  "The UAVs can provide at least 70% of the support you would get from an attack helicopter - minus the armament," Shaffner said.  "The operators can observe, perform route recon and report immediately over voice what they see to the ground forces, very similar to conventional aerial recon methods. It's very helpful."
"The simple fact is this technology saves lives," said Sgt. 1st Class David Norsworthy, a UAV platoon sgt with 2nd BCT, 101st Abn. Div.  Norsworthy, a former infantryman, knows better than most how effective the TUAV technology is when it comes to conducting full-spectrum ops in Baghdad. "The Shadow provides coverage for a lot of raids. We do road scans for roadside bombs and have actually caught terrorists in the act of implanting these bombs in the road.  The UAV mission is imperative to today's combat ops," said Norsworthy. "When the infantry troops are going into a certain area to clear buildings, we'll go in ahead of time and scan the area, and we'll be able to report to them exact grids of potential enemies in the area.  "Keeping Soldiers safe on the battlefield is number one. This is definitely a technology that will always be part of the fight," he said.

Staff Sgt. Daniel Lovell, who serves as a Tactical UAV operator, 4th BCT, 10th Mtn Div, wheels an RQ-7B Shadow 200 TUAV off the runway after the conclusion of a recon mission over MND-B airspace Aug. 11. 

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Blackanthem Military News

Business Development Conference to Provide Contract Registration Training

By A. Al Bahrani, Gulf Region South district

Lt. Col. James Bamburg, chief of Contracting Basrah Joint Regional Contracting Center and Dr. Khedher, Host Nation Business advisor welcome the Basrah Contractors at the Basrah Int'l Airport. (USACE photo by A. Al Bahrani)

BASRAH - To help Iraqi contractors meet the U.S. government's scope of work requirements, proposals and other aspects of the bidding process, Basrah PRT along with Joint Contracting Command Iraq / Regional Contracting Center Basrah, successfully conducted a one-day business development conference at the Basrah Int'l Airport.
The Aug. 12, 2008, event presented the contract acquisition process for obtaining a construction contract with the U.S. Army Corps of Engrs and the JCCI-RCC Basrah, said Army Maj. Daniel George, a PRT engr. from the Gulf Region Div, Gulf Region South district (GRS).
About 95 Iraqi contractors representing more than 75 companies from Basrah Province were given info to help them understand the contracting process used to award new projects that will provide services to the Iraqi people.
"We welcome you to the first, but not the last, business development conference," said Chief of Contracting Lt. Col. James Bamburg from the Army Basrah Joint Regional Contracting Center. "The aim of the one-day business development conference was to provide contract registration training to local Iraqi contractors and teach them how to access business opportunities that are offered by JCCI-RCC Basrah and GRS. Also provided in the presentation were how to prepare responses to solicitations and how the proposals are evaluated," Bamburg said.  "There is a clear difference in the quality of proposals from contractors that receive this type of training versus contractors that have not had training; the contractors and the proposals also become competitive."
Al Baraa Technical Company Director in Basrah Province, Ali Al-Baghdadi said, "I consider today's conference one of the most important events. There were lots of mistakes made in our previous proposals that we didn't know about. Now we are able to avoid those mistakes and compete to win more projects to help build the future of our country."
Ali Khreeb, a representative of Al Sairafi Company for General Construction said, "We got very useful and valuable guidance that will help us make successful proposals."

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Suspected terrorist leader detained in al Hillah

FOB KALSU - Iraqi SF detained a suspected terrorist cell leader during an early-morning raid in al Hillah, Aug. 13.
The op resulted from intel developed by al Hillah SWAT Team and CF, and was carried out with assistance from the local IP.  The suspected terrorist is believed to be a supplier of weapons to special groups. With his capture, ISF aimed to disrupt the flow of weapons to special groups in the area.
This was the first time the Hillah SWAT conducted a mission in cooperation with the IP, according to Capt. Hasam, the asst. bn cmdr. for Hillah SWAT.  "We planned and conducted a successful op," Hasam said.

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Iraqi forces take over Georgians' missions in Wasit

FOB DELTA - Iraqi SF will partner with the 41st Fires Bde and occupy several checkpoints and patrol bases previously manned by the 1st Georgian Bde.
"We want to train and work with the U.S. Army," said Iraqi Sgt Watak. Namel is with a contingent of soldiers  who are working together with soldiers from the 2nd Bn, 20th FAR at checkpoints in Wasit to keep the province stable and secure. "We like our job here of running the traffic control point and providing security at the entrance of the patrol base," he said.
The plan is to have a complete partnership with the Iraqi Soldiers, said 2nd Lt Charles Hines, with the 2-20 FAR., and the IA liaison at the patrol base. "Right now, the Iraqi soldiers have taken over the responsibility of the traffic control point, but we are going to train them to be able to take over the entire patrol base, go and do presence patrols and set-up temporary traffic control points in our area."
The 41st Fires Bde. established a very good working relationship with both the IP and the IA, said Col. Richard M. Francey, Jr., 41st Fires Bde cmdr. "We are integrating with the ISF to make us a better fighting force," he said. "They have stepped up to the plate, and their partnership is why we are able to take over the mission that the Georgians had to leave behind, with no change in the security and safety of the Iraqi people."
For Namel, working with the Americans is a chance to get better training, and learn as much from the U.S. Soldiers as he can. "I want to fight fiercely alongside the U.S. Army," he said.  By working with the Americans, "I get more training to be able to do the job."

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ISF, MND-B Soldiers seize weapons caches throughout Baghdad

BAGHDAD - At approx. 3 a.m., Soldiers from the 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID, during a combined op with IA soldiers found 5 AK-47 rifles, 3 AK-47 magazines loaded with ammo, 2 Siminov rifles and a hand grenade near the Amir JSS in Baghdad Aug.15.
Approx. 4 hours later, while conducting a mounted patrol of the East Rashid area of Baghdad, Soldiers with Co D, 1st CAB, 22nd Inf Regt, 1st BCT, 4th ID, acting on a tip from a local resident, seized 2 155 mm mortar rounds and a 60 mm mortar round.
At approx. 11:50 a.m., IP working in the New Baghdad area of Baghdad, seized 3 rocket rails from the bed of a truck at a security check point.
While conducting a forces patrol with the local SoI in the West Rashid area of Baghdad, Soldiers with Co A, 1st CAB, 22nd Inf. Reg. found 4 Chinese-manufactured 87 mm mortars, 3 60 mm mortars, 2 57 mm mortars and 3 Chinese-manufactured 107 mm mortars at approx. 12:05 p.m.
In the Al-Mansuriyah area of Baghdad, just after 2 p.m., IA soldiers were escorted to a weapons cache by a local resident.
The cache consisted of 2 120 mm mortar rounds, an 82 mm mortar round, 5 25-pound amounts of propellant, a PG7 rocket, 1.5-liters of TNT explosive  material, 15 electrical blasting cord caps and 18 feet of detonation cord.
In an abandoned house in the West Rashid area of Baghdad, IA soldiers found 6 60 mm mortar rounds with detonation cord attached to the top of each round at approx. 3 p.m.
At approx. 7 p.m., Soldiers from Co C, 1st Bn. 27th Inf Regt, 2nd SBCT, 25th ID, acting on a tip by a local Sheik, seized an IED that had been attached to the Sheik's car. While the Soldiers were investigating the incident, they also seized a 57 mm rocket and a rifle.
On a search for weapons caches based off a tip from a local resident, Soldiers with Co. B, 1st Bn, 502nd Inf Regt, 2nd BCT, 101st Abn Div, found 4 boxes of .51-cal. ammo in the Ghazaliyah area of Baghdad at approx. 12:30 a.m., Aug 16.

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ISF arrest terrorists, criminal in separate operations

BALAD - Iraqi SF arrested 2 suspected terrorists and one criminal on Ministry of Interior warrants during separate ops in central Iraq, Aug. 13.
Baghdad ERB arrested 2 suspected terrorists in Baghdad allegedly responsible for killing 4 IA soldiers, conducting extra judicial killings and executing IED attacks on Iraqi and CF in the region. 
In a separate op, Hillah SWAT team, and Hillah IP arrested a suspected criminal believed to be a weapons cache cell leader.

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MND-B Soldiers detain suspected criminals in Al-Amin

BAGHDAD - MND - Baghdad Soldiers attached to 4th BCT, 10th Mtn Div (Lt), detained 4 suspected criminals in eastern Baghdad, Aug. 16.
Soldiers from 1st Bn, 66th AR, 1st BCT, 4th ID, conducted ops in the Al-Amin area of the New Baghdad district resulting in the detainment of the 4 individuals, one of whom is considered a key suspected criminal.

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Turning Wrenches

Spc.Christopher Forbus, of Co B, 589th BSB, and an Iraqi mechanic inspect an Iraqi Army Humvee as part of Grease Monkey, a project designed to increase the skill of Iraqi maintenance personnel, Aug. 11, 2008 at FOB Delta.
Photo by Sgt. Daniel West

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Dear Interested Reader,
Marines with RCT 5 kill 3 insurgents in Anbar province and seize assorted weaponry and munitions.  There's a wonderful story about a reading program that bridges the distance between our troops and their children.  More than 840 proud IPs graduate from Furat Police Training Academy.  Reconciliation reaches 600 in Tikrit.  Large weapons caches seized and criminals are detained.
Joanna
__________________________________________

Aug. 16, 2008

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

RCT-5 Marines kill three insurgents in Anbar

AL ASAD AIRBASE - Marines with RCT 5 2nd Lt Armored Recon Bn killed 3 insurgents, Aug. 14 in southwestern Anbar province.
Near the scene of the engagement, the Marines discovered 2 suicide vests, 2 drums of 14.5 mm ammo, 3,000 rounds of 7.62 mm ammo, one loaded RPG launcher, 3 AK-47 assault rifles and an assortment of TNT explosives with detonation cord. 
No CF were injured in the incident. "The security in Iraq is improving, but it's still dangerous because bad people remain out there.  No matter where the bad guys are, we're going to find them and we're going to get them," said Lt. Col. Russ Smith, the bn cmdr. of 2nd LAR.

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Blackanthem Military News

CAB Soldiers, Families unite through reading

Photo and story by Capt. Kathryn Rains

Capt. Mohamad Umar, who hails from Phnom Penh, Cambodia, shows off the book he read to his 3 children, "Where the Wild Things Are", on Camp Taji, Aug. 12. Umar serves as a bn flight physicians assist. with HHC, 3rd Bn, 4th Aviation Regt, CAB, 4th ID.

CAMP TAJI – To aid in strengthening the separated Family relationships, the United through Reading program is the nation’s first nonprofit entity to promote the “read aloud” experience for separated Families.  The program fosters communication between deployed Soldiers and their children, siblings, nieces, nephews or those to whom they are a mentor.
“If we make a difference in one Soldier’s life and possibly that of his or her children, we have been successful, but to impact so many Soldiers and Families is simply overwhelming and fills the heart with pride,” said Lt. Col. Steven Palmer, who serves as the cmdr. of the 3rd Bn.
The support for this program has been ‘Steadfast and Loyal’ throughout the battalion. A video of the deployed Soldier reading a book, and the book, are mailed to the child. The child’s reaction is mailed in return to the Soldier.
“It’s a wonderful blessing to be able to read to my daughter on video, receive a video in return, and be able to watch her sit and follow along with the book,” said Staff Sgt. James Stanley, who serves as a personnel NCO with HHC. “It helps with the separation, and I get to help teach her to read at the same time.”
Chaplain (Capt.) Mark Olson, who has 6 children of his own, offers Soldiers this unique opportunity to communicate with their children not only by providing a reading room for Soldiers to record in, but by taking the program to the Soldiers working on the flight line. “Many Soldiers do not have the time to come to our reading room, so we take our video camera and books to them,” said Olson.  “The main idea for this program is simply to keep Soldiers in touch with their Families. The greatest reward, however, is the knowledge that someone back home will cry, smile, or laugh as they see their loved one in living color live before them on TV.”

Pfc. Shannon Willingham, shows off the books she has read to children back home. Willingham serves as a supply clerk with HHC.  Inf. Div., MND-B)

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More than 840 graduate 4-week IP training course

Baghdad IP officials and members of the MND - Baghdad's 18th MP Bde Police Transition Team observe the opening activities during a graduation of more than 840 IPs at the Furat Police Training Academy, Aug. 13. The IP graduates completed a four-week certification course.
(Army photo by Maj. Michael Indovina) 

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ISF discover ordnance, MND-B Soldiers detain suspected AQI in Rashid

BAGHDAD - Aug. 13, at approx. 5:45 p.m., IA soldiers found a 155 mm artillery round and a 105 mm artillery round during clearing ops in the Saydiyah community.
Soldiers from HHC, 1st Bn, 22nd Inf Regt, 1st BCT, 4th ID detained a suspected AQI operator in the Jihad area of Rashid at approx. 10:30 p.m. The individual is suspected of attacks against CF and ISF.

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Tikrit, ad Dwar see reconciliation numbers reach 600

TIKRIT - The number of individuals seeking to clear their names and reconcile with Iraqi Security and CF in the greater-Tikrit area has reached over 600 as of Aug. 13.
"There have been over 60 separate tribes represented and these people have now become a part of the future of Iraq," said Maj. Phillip Borders, 1st Special Troops Bn ops officer.
The number of persons who have reconciled throughout the Salah ad Din province is now approaching 1,500. 

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Engineers unearth large munitions cache in combined effort

TIKRIT -  In the Salah ad Din Province near the city of Tikrit, Aug. 9, intelligence sources led Soldiers with the 1st BCT, 101st Abn Div, (AASLT), to a cache site consisting of 620 mortar rounds, 160 fuses and 40 pounds of propellants.
The munitions were containerized in military wooded munitions boxes stacked 6 boxes high and buried approx. 3 feet underground.  Engineers with the 232nd Engr. Co, 326th Engr. Bn, 18th Engr. Bde, used excavating equipment to recover the munitions, before explosive technicians from the 184th EO Bn detonated the munitions on site.
"This mission for the 232nd was outside of their normal horizontal construction ops," said 1st Sgt. Chris Klingler, 232nd Eng. Co., first sgt. "It makes us feel like we are directly contributing to the fight."

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IA, MND-B soldiers seize weapons caches in greater Baghdad area

BAGHDAD - Aug. 13, IA soldiers found 11 oxygen tanks filled with homemade explosive material, a 12-inch improvised rocket launcher, a 14-inch improvised rocket launcher and 40 projectiles ranging from 105 mm to 155 mm filled with home-made explosive material, northwest of Baghdad.
Early the next morning at approx. 1:15 a.m., Soldiers with Co A, 1st CAB, 14th Inf Regt, 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID, conducted a targeted op at a suspected militant's house.   Seized were a variety of bomb-making materials, propaganda material, ID cards, body armor and small-arms munitions in the Tarmiyah area, north of Baghdad.

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Great Score

Army 1st Lt. Kevin Smith, left, and a fellow Soldier watch as an Iraqi Police officer kisses his target during Basic Rifle Marksmanship training at FOB Prosperity, Aug. 6, 2008.
U.S. Army photo by Spc. Charles W. Gill.

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Dear Interested Reader,
Success and progress are the stories of the day.  Summer youth programs will help teens earn self-respect, which isn't a bad idea for our own youths.  IA assumes control of Patrol Base Lutifiyah.  The Radwaniyah IP station has its grand opening ceremony.  Our UK partners take great pride in their accomplishments in Basra.  Special Groups and other criminals detained, as well as a large weapons and munitions cache seized.
Joanna
______________________________

August 15, 2008

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

Summer youth program provides positive influence for teens

BAGHDAD - Youths from Taji teamed up Aug. 11 as part of a summer youth hire program to clean up the Taji Market, northwest of Baghdad.
The youth program was kicked off by the ePRT, 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID, MND - Baghdad to give adolescents an appreciation for their community and engage them in a good cause rather than leave them to outside influences.  The teens work from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. sweeping roads, gathering garbage, participating in teamwork building workshops, planting trees, painting and other renovation projects. They are paid $300 monthly, which helps the families who are in financial need.
In the recent months, there have been reports of AQI trying to recruit children.  "This program was implemented as a means to keep these kids busy and out of trouble as well as give them a sense of citizenship and teach them about the importance of why they need to keep their environment clean," Cho said.  "I think the parents love it because all the kids are actually out doing something together, working toward community goals and leaving their differences aside forming a good community."
Cho also explained the program is not exclusive to Taji but also extends to Tarmiyah, northwest of Baghdad, and Abu Ghuraib, west of Baghdad. The program targets youths ranging from ages 14-19. "I would like to see this as a success story and implemented throughout Iraq in future years to come," Cho said.

Capt. Timothy Cho (right), who serves with the 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID, MND - Baghdad's ePRT, along with Rudy (left), bilingual bicultural advisor, stands with Taji youth at the Taji Market.
(Army photo by Sgt. Whitney Houston)

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IA receives recognition, assumes control of Patrol Base Lutifiyah

BAGHDAD - August 12 - "Today is a very special day," said Iraqi Col. Al Muhsin, cmdr. "This taking of responsibility in Lutifiyah shows that the IA is ready to protect, that the IA is ready to fight, and that the IA is ready to take control completely away from the enemy."
The IA and CF have been working side by side since the Iraqi rebuilding process began in 2005. The IA previously held more of a support role, but is now easing into the lead security element.  "We celebrate the taking over of security because 4 years ago, this area suffered from collapse and was called a ghost city," said Staff Maj. Gen. Al Frejee, 17th IA Div. cmdr. "Most families here lost family members, but from support of the Coalition, we switched this area to become very secure."
In just under a year, the area has seen nearly a 90% decrease in terrorist activity, ranging from attacks to roadside IEDs. A total of 18 patrol bases within the MND - Center battle space will transfer responsibility to the IA by the end of this year. The competence and capability of the 17th IA Div. enables CF to rely on IA soldiers to take the lead on security in the area.
"Aug. 8 was our last day on the patrol base," said Capt. Manuel Gonzalez, a btry cmdr from the 3rd Bn, 320th FAR, 3rd BCT, 101st Abn Div (AASLT). "This is one of the most prepared bns in the 17th IA Div.; they are ready to take over."
"Remember sacrifice today as today is a day of celebration... We celebrate the bravery and hard work of these men," said Lt. Col. William Zemp, cmdr of 3-320th FAR). "You have fought to free the people of this area from fear and intimidation; now (the IA) stands strong to protect from the corrupt and the criminal."

A combined color guard of soldiers from the IA and 3rd Bn, 320th FAR presents the Iraqi and U.S. colors.
(Army Photo by Pfc. Christopher McKenna)

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MND-B, ISF leaders gather for Radwaniyah IP station grand opening

BAGHDAD -  Aug. 12, at the grand opening of the Radawaniyah Police Station, during a ceremony in the Rashid district, IP working with Police Forces Command al-Karkh and Iraq's Ministry of Interior, officially recognized the opening as a new security landmark for Iraqis in southwestern Baghdad.
Brig. Gen. Kadhim, cmdr. of the IP Rashid District HQ, in his speech at the commemoration of the station, said the Iraqi people must stay aware and protect Baghdad by denying sectarianism.
The official opening of the Radwaniyah IP Station signifies improved security in the area that is part of southwest Rashid, said Lt. Col. Johnnie Johnson, cmdr. of the 4th Bn, 64th AR, attached to the 1st BCT, 4th ID.  As security ops in Radwaniyah transition to the control of Iraqi SF in Radwaniyah, the 4th Bn will be able to focus on other priorities, such as economics and governance, said Johnson. "The Iraqis now have a local police force to protect the people and handle the routine activities and business related to security here in Radwaniyah," Johnson said. "That is a very, very big achievement."
The police station has nearly 100% of its manning, comprised of people from Radwaniyah and from greater Baghdad, said Col. Ted Martin, cmdr. of the 1st BCT, 4th ID.  Martin also noted that in the last 90 days, the Radwaniyah community has experienced almost no enemy activity due to the Iraqi people working alongside the Iraqi Security and CF.

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MND-SE conducts transfer of authority

BASRA - Maj. Gen. Andy Salmon OBE assumed command of MND - South East from Maj. Gen. Barney White-Spunner CBE during a ceremony in Basra, Aug. 12.
Salmon's HQ, Royal Navy UK Amphibious Force staff also replaced White-Spunner's 3 (UK) Division staff.
The ceremony was attended by Lt. Gen. Lloyd J. Austin III, Multi National Corps - Iraq comm. gen., Maj. Gen. Mohammed, cmdr. of the IA in Basra and other local dignitaries.
"General Barney and his HQ have performed superbly," Austin said. "Within a week of their arrival, the GoI launched the Charge of the Knights Op to restore the rule of law here in Basra."
"Let me thank the leaders and the people of Basra," White-Spunner said. "Basra now stands poised to be the economic miracle of the Gulf.  With the SF providing  security it will soon rival Dubai or Bahrain."

Lt. Gen. Lloyd J. Austin III, presents an award to Maj. Gen. Barney White-Spunner CBE in appreciation of his accomplishments. 
(Royal Navy photo by Leading Photographer Jan Hartmann)

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IA detains four suspects in relation to SAF attack

BAGHDAD - IA soldiers detained 4 Iraqi citizens suspected of attacking a MND - Baghdad Police Training and Transition Team, Aug. 13 in the Shurta community of the Rashid district in southern Baghdad.
At approx. 7 a.m., Rashid District IP detained the suspects for questioning, acting in response to a small-arms fire attack on the 463rd PTT Team, attached to the 18th MP Bde.

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MND-B Soldiers detain Special Groups criminal

BAGHDAD - MND - Baghdad Soldiers conducted an intel-driven search op at approx. 11:45 a.m., Aug. 12 and detained a suspected Special Groups criminal in the Abu T'shir community of southern Baghdad.
Soldiers from Troop C, 7th Sqdrn, 10th Cav Regt, 1st BCT, 4th ID, moved to the subject's business and detained the alleged criminal wanted for illegal weapons trafficking. 
"The 7th Sqdrn is an excellent unit," said Maj. Dave Olson, spokesperson for the 1st BCT, 4th ID.  "We continue to take criminals off the streets to provide a safer and more secure environment for the Iraqi citizens."

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Iraqi Security Forces arrest 29 in southern Iraq

BALAD -  Aug. 11, Iraqi SF detained the individuals in the village of al-Isla, approx. 20 km northwest of Basrah. The suspects are believed to have conducted rocket attacks against CF and assassinated members of the local population in January 2008.
The village of al-Isla is reportedly a Special Groups weapons smuggling and logistics supply hub. There are indications that much of the smuggling from Iran into Maysan and Basrah Province flows through al-Isla before going to central Iraq.

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IA soldiers seize weapons cache in Sadr City

BAGHDAD - Aug. 12, IA found the cache consisting of 3 Iranian-made 81 mm mortars, 4 Iranian-made 60 mm mortars, a Chinese-made 82 mm mortar, 12 60 mm Chinese-made  mortars, 5 Yugoslavian-made 60 mm mortars, 2 40 mm grenades, 2 85 mm rockets, a 40 mm pyrotechnic trip-flares simulator, 4 grenades, 3 rocket propellants, a 2-inch mortar, 58 Chinese fuses, 5 pounds of UBE improvised claymore explosive material, 100 non-electric blasting caps, 2 pounds of bulk explosive material, a one-quarter pound block of explosive material, 50 feet of detonation cord, a 5 pound bag of propellant, 4 PKC machine gun barrels, 2000 7.62  54 mm belted ammo, 40 shotgun rounds and 4r hand-held radios.

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Dear Interested Reader,
There are a myriad of stories including an in-depth look at OH-58 Kiowa Warrior helicopter crews assisting our ground forces.  A commencement ceremony for the establishment of the Southern Kirkuk Civil Service Corps will benefit the Iraqi economy.  The USS Firebolt makes its first appearance in the port of Umm Qasr.  The training of Iraqi Soldiers continue with learning evidence gathering.  Weapons and munition caches continue to be seized thanks to citizen tips.
Joanna
________________________________

August 14, 2008

Blackanthem Military News

'Eyes In The Sky'

By CAB PAO Maj. Enrique T. Vasquez

Sgt. Tonia Cressey, OH-58 Kiowa Warrior crew chief from Troop C, performs pre-flight checks on an OH-58 Kiowa Warrior. The 4-6 CAV "Red Catchers" are part of the CAB, 1st ID, flying in support of Task Force Iron, 1st Armored Div., in northern Iraq.
(Photo by U.S. Army Maj. Enrique T. Vasquez)

Tikrit - Assisting ground cmdrs over the skies of Iraq are the pilots of Troop C, 4th Sqdrn, 6th Cav Regt flying OH-58 Kiowa Warrior helicopters.  "We are known as the scouts and we are both the eyes and ears of the command and task force," said Chief WO 4 Attila Herrera, Kiowa pilot. "A large portion of our mission is counter IED ops.  If we are flying in direct support of ground forces our mission entails searching for IEDs," said Herrera.
However, before these scout pilots take-off on any mission whether in support ground troops or just flying a counter IED sortie, they plan and coordinate carefully. "We start off our day by checking out the log books and performing thorough pre-flight inspections of the assigned aircraft and the back-up aircraft," said Herrera.
"Troop C also known as Carnage Troop, fly the latest OH-58D Kiowa Warrior, which is primarily operated in an armed recon role in support of ground troops," said Chief WO 3 Michael Lewis, Kiowa pilot.
Although there is a myriad of aviation platforms such as UAVs and Apache helicopters to help ground forces, nothing beats the steady eye of intuitive Kiowa pilots watching for an elusive adversary.
Sgt. Elie Regis, 1-1 ARB battle NCO, explains as he starts his mission orientation brief to Kiowa pilots, "Pilots are briefed on the 5 Ws - who, what, where, when and why - in respect to the ops portion of the brief.  The crews receive instructions on what the ground cmdrs want along with any changes in procedures or radio frequencies.  Pilots receive any changes in battlespace and updates as to what friendly forces are in the area of ops."
Just as the ops officer gives a detailed briefing so does the intel officer.  Everything the enemy might be doing or trying to do is briefed. "We find patterns and trends the enemy might be engaged in like IED, small arms fire and emplacements. We give the pilots an assessment so they know what to look for, how the enemy might act and what to expect," said Staff Sgt. Floyd Perry, 1-1 ARB intel analyst.
Shortly after take-off the flight crews of the OH-58 Kiowa 2-seater helicopter, begin to perform their individual and collective duties.  While both are capable of flying the aircraft, the duties of the pilot-in-command and the co-pilot are distinctly different on a combat mission. "The right seat (pilot) is the primarily eyes out and concentrates on air traffic avoidance.  The right seat directs the flight with regards to where they are going and what the priorities of recon are," said Lewis. "The left seat (co-pilot) manages the sensor, and operates both the navigation system and communications within the aircraft."
During a mission individual Kiowa pilots are part of a scout weapons team made up of 2 OH-58D Kiowa helicopters flying as a pair.  Each Kiowa helicopter has a distinct role during a mission set. "The lead aircraft is the primary shooter and navigator.  The trail aircraft covers the lead," said Lewis. "The trail also acts as a second pair of eyes should the lead aircraft take fire," Herrera. The trail is also responsible for keeping an eye on those on the ground and working with the ground units.
"The ground guys get excited when they see us fly over their convoys; we often hear them over the radio or watch them wave from their positions," said Herrera.  "Our presence gives the ground forces confidence and increases their sense of security because they know we our out there looking for IEDs and bad guys," said Lewis.

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

Southern Kirkuk Civil Service Corps established

KIRKUK - The official announcement of the establishment of the Southern Kirkuk Civil Service Corps was made during a commencement ceremony held at the Kirkuk Convention Center, Aug. 11.
The 12-month program is funded by CF and will employ 500 Iraqi citizens from 4 districts in over 20 villages within the Kirkuk Province. Those selected during a previous application process include 250 former members of the SoI, according to Lt. Col. Dennis Sullivan, cmdr., 2nd Bn, 22nd Inf. Regt., 1st Bde, 10th Mtn Div. "The blue print took 6 months to develop,"  referring to the rigorous selection process which had Soldiers of 2nd Bn, 22 Inf. Regt. and those assigned to the 1st Bde, 10th Mtn Div. conducting background checks and facilitating the paperwork that ensued.
The program has already provided 100 jobs to local citizens to work in administrative and teaching capacities. The 'Triple Deuce' bn facilitated the program with a paid local staff made up of college-educated citizens from Kirkuk, to including 26 women.
"As a clear indicator of the security gains in the area, we can now focus on rebuilding the infrastructure in areas once plagued by insurgents, and investing in its future - the employees and students represent some of the finest examples of citizens of Iraq," Sullivan said during the ceremony. The other districts benefiting are Taza, Yaychi and Daquq.
The student workers will receive paid vocational classroom instruction and on-the-job training geared toward construction-related skills such as painting, carpeting and masonry. The projects will focus on the infrastructure needs of the communities such as schools, municipalities and other civil service related construction.
"169 construction projects have already been lined up for these students," Sheikh Al Shamhari, the CSC program manager told the audience attending the ceremony. "They will be involved in rebuilding their communities while learning a skill that will help them rebuild their lives too," he said.

Kirkuk Gov. Mostafa, Maj. Gen. Mark P. Hertling, comm. gen. MND-North and 1st Armored Div., and Col. David Paschal, cmdr., 1st Bde, 10th Mtn Div watch the commencement ceremony.
Army photo by Staff Sgt. Margaret C. Nelson

Lt. Col. Dennis Sullivan, cmdr., 2nd Bn, 22nd Inf. Regt. signs the commencement paperwork for the establishment of the Southern Kirkuk Civil Service Corps as Sheikh Mohammed Shamhari, CSC program manager looks on during the ceremony.

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USS Firebolt Makes Port Visit to Umm Qasr       

By Lt. Nathan Christensen

An Iraqi Sailor looks on from the pier as USS Firebolt transits the Khawr Abd Allah River towards the port of Umm Qasr.
Photo by Lt. Nathan Christensen

UMM QASR — As part of Iraq Navy Day celebrations, USS Firebolt made a port visit to Umm Qasr, Iraq, Aug. 13, marking the first visit by a U.S. ship to Iraq in more than 15 months. “Our port visit to Umm Qasr demonstrates the great confidence we have in our Iraqi partners, and reflects the marked improvements in security that they have achieved within the past several months,” said Lt. Cmdr. Trent Thompson, Firebolt’s Comm. Officer. “This visit gave us a chance to interact with senior Iraqi Navy leadership and further enhance coalition cooperation with the Iraqi Navy and Marines.”
“Making a port visit to Iraq and interacting with Iraqi officers is very important because it builds relationships and promotes positive interaction between our navies,” said Petty Officer 2nd Class David Moore. “Today was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and I am proud to help make a positive difference in Iraq’s future.”
An Iraqi officer said he was pleased Firebolt made a port visit to Umm Qasr and took time to visit Iraq. “This is an important day for us and for Iraq,” he said. “Having this ship visit Umm Qasr is a big step and we hope more coalition ships can visit this port as well.”
Rear Adm. Thomas Cropper, Dep. Cmdr., U.S. Naval Forces Central Command, celebrated Iraqi Navy Day with senior Iraqi naval leaders, Aug. 12 and was pier side for Firebolt’s arrival to Umm Qasr. “There has been significant progress in Iraq during the past year and a half that allowed Firebolt to make this port visit to Umm Qasr,” he said. “Visits like this are important because they help reinforce the strong ties that already exist between our two navies. This visit clearly demonstrates the coalition partnership in maritime security with the Iraqi Navy, and our commitment to the GoI and its people.”
Following the ship’s visit to Umm Qasr, senior Iraqi naval officers and members of the Naval Transition Team embarked Firebolt to inspect ops on the Khawr Al Amaya Oil Terminal.  While on board KAAOT, they discussed the role of Iraqi and CF protecting Iraq’s key maritime infrastructure in the North Persian Gulf.  U.S. and coalition maritime forces provide assistance to the Iraqi Navy defending Iraq’s major oil platforms. These terminals are significant sources of Iraqi govt revenue and contribute approx. 80% of Iraq’s gross domestic product.
Led by Combined Task Force - 158, coalition maritime forces in the North Persian Gulf maintain a naval and air presence to safeguard the region’s vital links to the global economy. These key maritime infrastructure nodes are the foundation for the region's economic growth, stability and prosperity as well as significantly impact the global economy.

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Iraqi Soldiers Learn Evidence Gathering

Story and photo by Capt. Robin Worch

An Iraqi Soldier marks a bag used for collecting evidence during joint training with American Soldiers.

COB ADDER — Iraqi Army and U.S. Soldiers took part in a 2-part training event designed to improve the Iraqi’s ability to find, collect and capture forensic images for evidence.
Soldiers of the IA’s 1st Bn, 40th Bde conducted the 3-day training with Soldiers from 2nd Sqdrn, 12th Cav Regt, 4th BCT, 1st Cav Div in the Iraqi city of Nasiriyah. “This type of training really cuts to the heart of creating an Iraqi force that can conduct missions on their own,” said 1st Lt. Andrew Clark, assigned to Co B, 2nd Sqdn.
The first two days of training consisted of tactical investigation training and techniques for searching an area for possible caches and criminal activity.  After learning how to search vehicles and houses for evidence, the Iraqi Soldiers were taught how to process the info for use in future trials. “This is a very important step for a country still working its way through the challenges of having a growing legal system,” said Capt. Chris Kelshaw, also assigned to Co. B.
On the last day of training, U.S. Soldiers taught Iraqi military intel personel to use Falcon View, a program that works with topographical imagery used in the planning of missions. “The Iraqis are working very hard to ensure that they can continue to be the lead element in all ops for Dhi Qar and Muthanna provinces,” said Kelshaw.

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SoI member turns in C-4 stockpile

FOB HAMMER - A stockpile of C-4 explosive material was turned into CF by a member of the SoI, Aug. 10 in Jisr Diyala.
The explosives were discovered after a group of children unearthed them while playing in their back yard. The children's father immediately gathered the explosives and delivered them to a nearby member of the SoI.  The small stockpile contained 10 blocks of C-4 plastic explosives, each weighing just less than one-and-a-half pounds. The explosives are the largest concentration of captured plastic explosives found by TF 1-35 Armor since the 2nd BCT, 1st Armored Div. helped secure the area.
After inspecting the explosives, EOD determined that the blocks were all manufactured within the last 3 years and were of Iranian origin.

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Culvert bridge opens, links two sides of Numaniyah

BAGHDAD - A culvert bridge opened in Numaniyah, Aug. 8 during a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
The opening signaled the end of the first stage in a 2-phase project.  Soldiers of El Salvador's Bn Cuscatlán managed the initial phase, which began April 19.
"The bridge helps all the citizens of Numaniyah," said Ali al Karim, a contractor who helped construct the bridge. "It helps connect both sides of the city and ensures the free flow of water to both sides of the city."    The culvert bridge will also allow water to flow from the Tigris River to farmers on the outskirts of the city.
The second phase is under way and will include the expansion of the bridge from 2 to 4 lanes in order to facilitate the high volume of traffic expected on the bridge.

 Ali al Karim, a contractor, signs paperwork under the supervision of a soldier of El Salvador's Bn Cuscatlán, just before the opening ceremony for the new canal bridge.
Army photo by Sgt. Daniel West

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Tip leads IPs, U.S. Soldiers to railed rockets in Karadah

BAGHDAD - A tip led IP officers and U.S. Soldiers to find and destroy 2 rockets on rails in the Karadah district of eastern Baghdad, Aug. 12.
Soldiers from 5th Bn, 25th Field Artillery dispatched a patrol to clear the area around the rockets and an air weapons team to safely destroy the rocket.

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Lamb Sandwich

An Iraqi food vendor slices lamb to make sandwiches, Aug. 8, 2008, in the Saydiyah community of southern Baghdad.  Soldiers from the 4th Bn, 64th Armor Regt, recently assisted the neighborhood council to bring streetlights to Tejara Street.
Photo by Sgt. David Hodge

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Dear Interested Reader,
We start off with a heroic story honoring two soldiers from the HHC.  Our other stories are of successful missions detaining many criminals and AQI terrorists, as well as weapons and munition caches seized.
Joanna
_____________________________________________

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

Aug. 13, 2008

Blackanthem Military News

Raider BCT recognizes MND-B Soldiers for courage, service and loyalty under attack

By Staff Sgt. Brent Williams

Col. Ted Martin, cmdr. of the 1st BCT, 4th ID, pins the Bronze Star Medal with Valor on the chest of Spc. Marcus Brown, Aug. 10 for valorous actions in the face of enemy combat.  Brown, an infantry mortarman, assigned to HHC, 1st Bn, 22nd Inf Regt, was also presented the Combat Infantryman Badge for taking charge of his platoon and leading recovery and security ops for his downed vehicle after an IED killed his cmdr., Capt. Andrew Pearson, and Spc. Ronald Tucker, April 30.  "Our nation doesn't have a lot to offer all the brave Soldiers in Iraq, who are doing hard, dangerous work every day," said Martin, an armor officer.  "But every once in a while, we have the ability to take a snapshot in time to capture their valorous acts and reward them with a medal that they're going to wear for the rest of their lives."
(Army photo by Staff Sgt. Brent Williams)

FOB FALCON -  Martin also awarded an Army Commendation Medal with Valor device and the Combat Field Medical Badge to Sgt. Rafael Delgado, a combat medic, as a testament to his personal courage, selfless service and loyalty to his fellow Soldiers.
Brown, initially injured in the blast, acted quickly to open the rear escape hatch and secure the site - and then "exhibiting total disregard for his own safety" attempted to free the driver, Spc. Ronald Tucker, who was mortally wounded in the attack. Brown, despite his injuries, established a security perimeter, leading a team of Soldiers to establish overwatch of the site to prevent a second enemy attack.
"I am actually proud I got the award, and I am proud my fellow brothers were out here to support me in it," he said. "I am thankful that the bde cmdr was able to come out here and award it to me."
Delgado, the platoon medic for the mortar platoon, charged with providing security for the HHC commander, reacted immediately to assess the damage rendered by the dual-array EFP attack.  Delgado, then a specialist, remained in the burning vehicle with complete disregard to his own safety to provide emergency medical treatment for Tucker and to assist Brown with recovery ops.
Smoke, fire and ammo cooking off forced Delgado and Brown to evacuate the vehicle and take cover in nearby buildings. "It showed me that if there is one thing that I am proud of, and if there is one thing that I am true to, and if there is one thing that I am faithful to, and will give my life for, it is my Soldiers," Delgado said, of his actions on that day. "As a medic and now a sgt, it's an honor to work with these guys … I will definitely put my life on the line for every one of these guys."

 Col. Ted Martin presents Sgt. Rafael Delgado with an Army Commendation Medal with Valor device Aug. 10 during an award ceremony here.

Col. Ted Martin addresses the Soldiers of HHC, during an awards ceremony.  "That medal not only reflects what they did that day, but it reflects everything that this battalion stands for: great Soldiers in a tough and difficult place in Iraq with a dangerous mission, doing the very best that they can," said Martin.

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MND-B Soldiers detain suspected Special Groups criminal leader in Rashid

FOB FALCON -  Aug. 12 at approx. 1:15 a.m., Soldiers from HH Detachment, 1st BCT, 4th ID, MND-B, conducted a search op and detained a suspected Special Groups cell leader in the Risalah community.  He is suspected of conducting roadside bomb attacks against CF.

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U.S. Soldiers detain suspected IP infiltrator

BAGHDAD - Soldiers attached to 4th BCT, 10th Mtn Div (Lt), detained a suspected Special Groups member who had infiltrated the IP in eastern Baghdad, Aug. 11.
Soldiers assigned to 1st CAB, 66th AR received sworn statements from separate sources accusing the suspect of using an IP patrol vehicle to transport IEDs, conduct kidnappings and providing info about IP and U.S. military ops to SG militants in Baghdad.

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MND-B Soldiers take weapons off streets

BAGHDAD - Acting on a tip from a local citizen, Soldiers with Co A, 2nd Bn, 4th BCT, attached to the 1st BCT, 4th ID, MND-B, found a 60 mm mortar and an 82 mm mortar in the East Rashid area of Baghdad at approx. 12 p.m., Aug. 11.
On Aug. 12, Soldiers with Co C, 2nd Bn, 14th Cav Regt, 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID, seized a 130 mm projectile, an 82 mm mortar and a 1.5 pound block of TNT northwest of Baghdad at approx. 1 a.m.
Since May 20, Iraqi SF and MND-B Soldiers have seized more than 500 weapons caches. Munitions seized include 320
EFPs, 368 IEDs, 316 rockets, 535 artillery rounds, 2,929 mortar rounds, 1,131 RPGs and 6,185 rifles.
"In support of Op Ironhorse Tempest II, U.S. Soldiers partnered with Iraqi SF, aggressively pursue terrorists, criminals and their weapons," said Lt. Col. Steve Stover, spokesman, 4th ID and MND-B. "Since our arrival, we have killed or captured 592 AQI, and 658 Special Groups operatives."

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ISF detain 70 suspected criminals during Operation Lion's Prowl II

BAGHDAD -  Aug. 8, IA Soldiers and members of the Babil Provincial ERU also confiscated more than 80 AK-47s during the op.
"The SF were very professional...they're conducting clearance of the whole Iskandariyah area prior to the Shabaniyah Pilgrimage," said Capt. Michael Penney, cmdr of Co A, 2nd Bn., 502nd Inf Regt, attached to 4th BCT, 3rd ID.
The Shabaniyah festival in the Shia holy city of Karbala marks the birth of Mohammed al-Mahdi, the 12th and last Shia imam who disappeared in the 9th century.

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MND-B Soldiers detain suspected Special Groups criminal leader

BAGHDAD - Soldiers from the 4th BCT, 10th Mtn Div (Lt), detained a suspected Special Groups criminal leader in the Rusafa security district of eastern Baghdad, Aug. 11.
Acting on intel reports, Soldiers from 3rd Sqdrn, 89th Cav Regt, conducted a successful mission to detain the individual.
The suspected Special Groups leader is known to operate within multiple muhallas of Rahwaniyah in Baghdad's Int'l Zone. His cell is suspected of emplacing roadside bombs.

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MULTI-NATIONAL FORCE-IRAQ

Blackanthem Military News

Suspects give up their bosses; two alleged al-Qaeda leaders captured

BAGHDAD - In an op that turned suspected terrorists against each other, CF captured 2 alleged AQI leaders in Baghdad while other ops around the country netted 10 additional suspects August 10 and August 11.
An associate of a suspected AQI senior leader in Baghdad August 11 led CF to the wanted man, who is believed to be a leader in the Adhamiya neighborhood. The man was reportedly planning a car bombing, and the network is known to attack Iraqi civilians. After the suspected terrorist was detained, he turned on his comrades, helping CF track down an associate of another alleged AQI senior leader. Once detained, the associate then turned in the second suspected leader, who is assessed to be a leader in AQI's car-bombing network in the Rusafa neighborhood, which has attacked Iraqis and the SF that protect them.
A suspected foreign terrorist facilitator is in Coalition custody after another op in Baghdad on August 11. The man is assessed to have ties to several previously captured suspects and known terrorists who plan suicide bombings targeting Iraqi civilians.
CF detained 7 suspected terrorists during an op in Baghdad August 11 targeting a longtime AQI leader who oversees terrorist ops, including attacks on civilians, in the Northern Belt around the city.
August 10, CF in Bayji, about 160 km south of Mosul, captured a man allegedly involved in both bombing and foreign terrorist facilitation ops. The man has reportedly provided falsified documents to AQI terrorists so they can move in and out of Iraq. One additional suspect was detained.

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Dear Interested Reader,
There are spectacular pictures of the Spartans on mission assaulting known AQI safe houses.  The very first IP station opens in the city of Hawijah.  In numerous ops many criminals and AQI terrorists detained, and weapons and munition caches seized.
Joanna
__________________________________

August 12, 2008

Blackanthem Military News

Spartans assault known AQI safe houses

Photos by Sgt. 1st Class Kevin Doheny

SAMARRA, Iraq

 Sgt Spencer Stewart, 1st Special Troops Bn, 1st BCT, 101st Abn Div, watch as a UH-60 Black Hawk lands during Op Cretan, Aug. 8. The op conducted by IP and "Spartan" Soldiers, targeted known AQI safe houses in the Salah ad Din province.

1st Lt Brian Christ and an Iraqi officer pull security as a UH-60 Black Hawk prepares to take off during infiltration near a known AQI safe house, a combined air assault with IP and Soldiers from 1st Special Troops Bn.

As the sun rises in the Salah ad Din province Aug. 8, 1st Lt. Brian Christ listens to his radio as other members of his unit move to known safe houses of AQI fighters.

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First IP station opens in the city of Hawijah

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

August 12, 2008

Hawijah City Mayor Sabhan cuts the ribbon signifying the grand opening of the first IP station in the city of Hawijah, Aug. 10, as Col. Kevin Brown, dep. comm. officer, 1st Bde, 10th Mtn Div. assists. Col Sarhad, Kirkuk Province's outer city police chief, Lt. Col. Fatah, Hawijah city police chief, and Maj. Gen. Jamal, Kirkuk provincial police chief also participated in the ceremony.
(Army photo by Staff Sgt. Margaret C. Nelson)

It was standing room only for those attending the grand opening.  Provincial and outer-city IP leadership, key city and govt leaders with CF reps attended to show their support.  "You should be proud of your efforts," Maj. Gen. Jamal, Kirkuk provincial police chief told the crowd.  He credited Iraqi SF, CF, and the SoI for their combined efforts in "restoring peace to a once troubled area."

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National ERBs detain suspected criminal leader, three others

BALAD -  In Bayji, approx. 50 km south of Mosul, Aug. 7, the detained suspect is said to provide command and control for the 1920 Revolutionary Bde that operates around Sharqat and Bayji. He is believed to have connections to the ISI and AQI in the Tigris River Valley.
Reports indicated the suspect was in the final planning stages of emplacing IEDs and planning sniper attacks against CF at nearby FOBs. 
Also on Aug. 7, during a separate op in Baqubah, the Baqubah National Emergency Response Brigade detained 3 suspects pursuant to a Ministry of Interior warrant.  The suspects are believed to have murdered an Iraqi citizen a year ago.

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ISF detain 13 suspected criminals, uncover weapons cache in separate operations in central Iraq

BALAD - In an op Aug. 8 in Babil, Hillah SWAT team detained two suspected Special Groups criminals pursuant to a Ministry of Interior warrant. The individuals are wanted for their alleged involvement in an IED emplacement cell.
In Amarah Aug. 8, IP uncovered a suspected Special Groups criminal weapons cache. The cache contained approx. 70
mortar rounds, 20 RPG rounds and several mortar round carriers.
On Aug. 7 in al Hamza, approx. 23 km southeast of Hillah, the al-Hamza IP detained 11 suspected Special Groups criminals pursuant to a local warrant.  Five of the suspects are wanted for armed robbery to fund anti-Iraqi and CF ops in the region.

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ISOF detain 12 suspected AQI members during separate operations in Diyala

BALAD - On Aug. 9, during an op in Kanaan, approx. 15 km east of Baqubah, ISOF detained 2 suspected AQI members pursuant to a local warrant. The individuals are reported to emplace IEDs.
In an op in the Mahmudiyah area of Diyala Aug. 8, ISOF detained 8 suspected AQI and ISI terrorists pursuant to a Ministry of Justice warrant. The suspects are believed to be involved in running illegal checkpoints, direct-fire attacks and kidnapping.
During another op in Diyala Aug. 8, ISOF detained 2 suspected AQI and recovered a weapons cache. One of the suspects is believed to be an AQI leader, and the other a leader and financial minister for a group consisting of approx. 300 AQI terrorists. They are suspected of conducting criminal activities and launching attacks on CF bases.

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IA, MND-N Soldiers discover IEDs in school

DIYALA PROVINCE - A patrol of IA and MND - North Soldiers discovered several IEDs in a school before it could detonate in the village of Tahwilla, Aug. 9.
"This in another despicable example of the anti-Iraqi insurgency knowing no boundaries in its cruelty," said Col. Pat White, Cmdr. of the 2nd BCT, 1st Armored Div. "To rig up a school with explosives in order to potentially kill school children sets another low for these criminals."
An EOD team investigated the IEDs and did a controlled detonation on the visible explosives, then called in an air strike to destroy any remaining explosives left in the school. The Diyala province is one of the poorest in Iraq, and the loss of the Tahwilla village school will be a tremendous blow for the area.
Maj. Wayne Marotto, a spokesman for the 2nd BCT said, "The ops in northern Iraq will continue to expand the GoI's capability to increase essential services and reconstruction to villages like Tahwilla."
The IA, establishing a long-term presence in Tahwilla, will work with provincial officials to develop a way ahead to replace the school.

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ISF detain nine suspected terrorists in northern Iraq

BALAD - Tikrit SWAT team detained a key suspected AQI weapons facilitator in Tikrit, Aug. 8. The suspect is believed to be facilitating weapons for members of the ISI and AQI in the Salah Din area.
During an op in the Al Tamim neighborhood of Bayji Aug. 7, Iraqi SF detained 9 suspected AQI/ISI cell members. The individuals are believed to be using Bayji as a safe haven for their terrorists' activities in northern Iraq.
In Bi'aj Aug. 6, the 3rd IA Recon detained a suspected AQI cell leader from the Sinjar and Bi'aj area. The individual is believed to be a former AQI emir for Bi'aj and was recently assigned to reassemble a cell to conduct ops from Bi'aj.

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MND-B Soldiers detain suspected AQI in Abu T'shir

BAGHDAD -  Aug. 9, at approx. 12:30 a.m., Soldiers from Troop A, 7th Sqdrn, 10th Cav Regt, 1st BCT, 4th ID, detained the suspected AQI member for the murder of a SoI security volunteer. The Soldiers detained the individual based on sworn statements made by local Iraqi citizens who witnessed the murder.

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MND-B Soldiers seize cache northwest of Baghdad

BAGHDAD -  Aug. 9, Soldiers from the 1st Bn, 21st Inf Regt, 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID, seized a weapons cache northwest of Baghdad at approx. 10 a.m., consisting of 12 120 mm mortar rounds, 3 122 mm mortar rounds, 4 60 mm mortar rounds, a 152 mm mortar round, 106 various fuses and 80 12.7 mm projectiles.

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Blackanthem Military News

New police chief introduced at Sadr City tribal sheiks meeting

By Sgt. Zach Mott

Lt. Col. Peter Pierce (center left), addresses tribal sheiks from the Sadr City district of Baghdad during a meeting at COP Old MOD in northern Baghdad, Aug. 9. 
(Army photo by Sgt. Zach Mott)

COP OLD MOD - Twice a month, tribal sheiks and religious leaders from the Sadr City district of northern Baghdad gather to discuss progress on reconstruction efforts and to identify other areas of need.  During this meeting, electricity was the main focus of discussion as members of the Ministry of Electricity were in attendance.
"I think the most important thing about the meeting is the tribal sheiks and the religious leaders who represent leaders of Sadr City, had an opportunity to meet and interface with key people from the GoI," said Lt. Col. Peter Pierce, human terrain team leader, 3rd BCT, 4th ID.  Pierce attends the meetings along with other leaders from the U.S. military. He helps keep the meetings stay on task, but the discussion and resolutions are voiced by the Iraqi attendees.  "The meetings present a forum for people to first meet and to introduce one another," he said. "I would say that, realistically, probably most of the real work is done in side meetings or in less formal working group meetings after these formal meetings."
Additionally, the new IP chief for the district was introduced to the attendees.  Brig. Gen. Hassan said he was eager to begin working to increase the security and stability of Sadr City. "We have weapons and we're ready to begin joint patrols with the IA," he said. "We're willing to cooperate with the people of Sadr City in any way possible."

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Dear Interested Reader,
Enjoy a wonderful human interest story of a young man born in Baghdad returning to Iraq as an American Airman.  His parents are very special too.  There's also an inspiring story of a young female Airman serving with Army Soldiers to get the best job done.  The Baghdad Zoo has been gifted of 2 Bengal tigers by the Conservator's Center in N. Carolina.  Multiple weapons and munition caches seized, and many criminals detained or killed.  AQI terrorist and bomb making networks disrupted.
_____________________________________________

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

Aug.11, 2008

Baghdad Native Returns to Iraq as American Airman 

   
Air Force Airman 1st Class Murad Mohiadeen defends an entry control point near the Air Force Theater Hospital at Joint Base Balad,  Aug. 2, 2008.
Air Force photo and story by Staff Sgt. Don Branum

BALAD — Air Force Airman 1st Class Murad Mohiadeen's story crosses 2 continents and spans more than 7,500 miles. It begins with his birth in Iraq 20 years ago and continues today as the story of an American airman who is part of the Coalition's efforts to win the peace in Iraq.
Mohiadeen was born in Baghdad in 1988.  His father, a Muslim, owned a small shoe co. and his mother, a Christian, stayed home to raise him and his brother. The family was financially comfortable, but something was missing. "They wanted freedom. There was no freedom there," Mohiadeen said.  So the family emigrated from Iraq in 1990. "We just wanted a new life," Mohiadeen said. "Life was pretty hard when Saddam [Hussein] was in power."
Mohiadeen's family spent 2 years traveling through Jordan, Turkey and Germany before finally arriving in the United States.  The voyage eroded most of the family's savings, but the trip was worth the cost. "Our family wanted freedom," Mohiadeen said. "There's freedom in the United States.  It was like (we were) trading money for freedom, but if we had to do it again, it would still be worth it."
He lived with his family in Los Angeles for several years and later moved to Portland, Ore. When the U.S. began OIF in March 2003, his parents became linguists. "When the war kicked off, my parents saw an opportunity to help out and give back to the U.S.," he said. "They've both been to (Joint Base) Balad, and my mom just came back from Bucca. God bless her soul."
As a Muslim, Mohiadeen is concerned by the actions of terrorists, who he said he believes do not act in accordance with Muslim beliefs. "They say, 'Allah wants people dead.' There's nothing like that written," he said. "That's not a part of the faith I grew up with."
He joined the Air Force a year and a half ago to travel, get a college education and represent the Iraqi people. "I wanted people to understand," he said. "I try to do good things so when people think of me, they think better of all Iraqi people," he said.
One of the people with whom Mohiadeen has made a good impression is Air Force Maj. Scott Spiers, the 332nd Expeditionary Security Forces Sqdrn cmdr. "I was out on post checks when I met Airman Mohiadeen," said Spiers, who is deployed from Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii. "I noticed his name and asked where he was from, and he said, 'Baghdad.'"  Mohiadeen shared the story of his family's journey to the United States with Spiers. "I thought it was a great story," the major said. "I think it's really cool to see people who have immigrated to the U.S., serving their country, especially when it means coming back to their homeland."
Mohiadeen volunteers regularly as a translator at the Air Force Theater Hospital here, and said he wants to cross-train to become an Arabic linguist.
The happy ending for Mohiadeen's story would include peace for the people of Iraq. "I want Iraq to be a better place," he said. "I want Iraq to have peace again."  To the Iraqi people, he said, "God bless you and stay strong."

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Blackanthem Military News

Airman serves with Soldiers to bring security to Iraqi people

By Sgt. Philip Klein

Senior Airman Kathleen Gasque, lays down electrical cord outside the 3rd BCT, 4th IDd, Intel Office, August 8.

(Army photo by Sgt. Philip Klein)

FOB WAR EAGLE - The fight to bring security to the people of Iraq requires the cooperation of all branches of the military. Gasque is a member of the weapons intel team who works with EOD teams for MND - Baghdad to fight the threat of IEDs in Iraq. "We basically do crime scene investigations on bomb sites, conducting post blast analysis to help us combat future attacks and track the IED cells where the deadly weapons originate," said Gasque.
Coming from the Air Force, Gasque admitted to a little culture shock as she began working with the Soldiers of the 3rd BCT, 4th ID, but the Soldiers have made her welcome and a part of the MND-B team. "It was a little different coming into this environment dominated by Soldiers but in the end we are all here for the same reason, to serve our country," she continued.
Gasque, a network analyst with the Air Force, volunteered to deploy for one year and doesn"t regret any of it. "I do a lot of analytical work with the Army intel guys and really enjoy the things I am getting to do here, plus I get to do something for my fellow service members," said Gasque.
Sgt. 1st Class Kenneth Stolp, the Bde Intel Section NCOIC has no complaints with Gasque's work with the unit and is proud to have her as a member of the team. "There is no real difference between an Airman and a Soldier; we are all professionals and take our work seriously," said Stolp.

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Tigers bring friendship to Iraq from America

By Staff Sgt. Joy Pariante

BAGHDAD - After traveling more than 7,000 miles, a pair of Bengal tiger cubs has finally settled into their new home in Iraq. Amid much fanfare and excitement, Hope and Riley were introduced to the Baghdad Zoo Aug. 8.
The tigers were a goodwill gesture from the North Carolina Conservators' Center, a breeding sanctuary for endangered species. "We are building trust with America," said Dr. Adel Mousa, zoo director.  "We're building trust with a society that trusted us to care for these animals." The cubs are just under two years old and weight more than 150 lbs each. The Bengal tiger is an endangered species, with less than 3,000 worldwide.  "We hope to bring smiles back to the people and the children," said Mousa. "We want to put smiles back on their faces after years of misery.  In addition to the enjoyment people will get from watching them, they will present opportunities for students and the public to learn about this and other endangered species."
"This is exemplary of how people in Iraq are taking the lead to improve the circumstances in Iraq," said Capt. Jason Felix, 2nd Bde Special Troops Bn, 101st Abn Div (AASLT), whose unit was in charge of tiger transport.
CF and the Iraqi people have been working to bring the zoo up to international standards of health and safety, Mousa said.
"We currently consider the zoo in very good shape," Mousa said. He also pointed out that the zoo sits in a very safe part of the city and has 24-hour security inside and outside its gates.
The Baghdad Zoo gets approximately 10,000 visitors every Friday and Saturday and 2,000 to 3,000 on the weekdays, Mousa said. This is up 300% from 2006 and years prior when zoo visitation was approx. 150 people per day.
The zoo features 62 exhibits with 788 animals. There is also an amusement park and swimming pool nearby.

Riley and Hope, the pair of tigers sent to the Baghdad Zoo from the Conservators' Center in North Carolina, relax in their new enclosure in Iraq Aug. 8.
(Army photo by Staff Sgt. Joy Pariante)

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IA locates multiple caches around Baghdad, detains 8 suspects

BAGHDAD -  Aug. 7 after receiving tips, IA Soldiers and 3rd Bn, 320th FAR, 3rd BCT, 101st Abn Div (AASLT) found a cache approx. 23 km southwest of Baghdad. The cache included 26 81 mm mortar rounds, 25 grenades, a RPG, 2 RPG motors, 2 mortar sights and 2 12-inch rockets.
The same day, IA Soldiers located another cache while conducting a clearing mission in Mehdi Village, approximately 33 km south of Baghdad. The cache contained 25 57 mm mortars rigged with detonation cord and timers, an anti-tank mine, 2 homemade IEDs and a homemade claymore mine.
A third cache find was the result of a report received by 1st Plt, HHB, 3-320th FA Bn.  IA Soldiers and MND-C Soldiers found a DShK machine gun and 600 DShK rounds. The IA also detained 7 suspects for questioning.
"These cache finds and subsequent detainments of suspected criminals are perfect examples of the commitment the IA and local populace have to maintaining security and stability throughout the Mahmudiyah Qada," said Col. Dominic Caraccilo, cmdr. of 3rd BCT.

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ISF, MND-B Soldiers discover multiple munitions caches in Baghdad

BAGHDAD - Iraqi SF and MND - Baghdad Soldiers discovered multiple munitions caches in Baghdad, Aug. 8.
At approx. 10 a.m., IA soldiers found 6 82 mm mortars, 2 RPGs and 2 IED fuses in the Kadamiyah district of Baghdad.
Later, at approx. 11:30 a.m., IP found 5 125 mm mortars and 6 120 mm mortars in the Adhamiyah district of Baghdad.
Just before 2 p.m., Soldiers with Co A, 1st Bn, 14th Inf Regt, 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID seized a gallon jug of bulk explosive material just north of Baghdad.
At approx. the same time, Soldiers with Co B, 1st Bn, 52nd Inf Regt, 2nd SBCT, 25th ID, found a machine gun and a variety of bomb-making material north of Baghdad.
At approx. 4:30 p.m., Soldiers with Co A, 1st Bn, found 14 81 mm Iraqi air-to-ground rockets, a speed bump IED and a truck bed containing hollowed out rockets and components north of Baghdad.
Lastly, at approx. 9 p.m., Soldiers with Co E, 1st CAB, 68th AR, 3rd BCT, 4th ID, found a hand grenade, 3 AK-47 rifles, AK-47 ammo, a bag of propaganda materials and IA uniforms in the Adhamiyah district of Baghdad.

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MULTI-NATIONAL FORCE-IRAQ
PRESS DESK
BAGHDAD, Iraq

Al-Qaeda’s foreign terrorist, bombing networks disrupted (Baghdad)       

BAGHDAD – In the village of Abu Wali, about 65 km northwest of Mosul, CF captured a suspected member of the AQI foreign terrorist network August 9. He reportedly stores and moves weapons into Mosul for terrorist attacks against Iraqi civilians and the SF that protect them.
August 10, CF captured another man wanted for his ties to the AQI foreign terrorist network, along with 2 additional suspects. The wanted man allegedly helps plan the movement of foreigners across the border into Iraq to conduct suicide bombings targeting Iraqis. He is also suspected of acquiring falsified documents for terrorists.
In Mosul August 10, CF captured a man wanted for his association with AQI senior leaders in the city. The man is assessed to advise on financial matters for the terrorist group as part of his association.
CF in the capital on August 10 captured a man believed to be an active member of a car-bombing network in Baghdad that targets Iraqis providing security for civilians in the city. The group is also involved in moving and housing suicide operatives when they arrive in the area.
Two suspects were detained August 10 in Baghdad, including a wanted man, for their alleged ties to a bombing cell that operates between Baghdad and Fallujah. The wanted man reportedly procures materials to build bombs for attacks against Iraqis and SF.
CF continued to root out foreign terrorist facilitators in Baghdad with an op August 10, that captured a wanted man and one additional suspect. The wanted individual allegedly conspires with AQI senior leaders to move terrorist resources into and around the country.

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A C-5 Galaxy crew loads a CH-47D Chinook heavy lift helicopter into its cargo bay, Aug. 3, 2008.  Joint Base Balad processes more than 950 cargo aircraft, 12,000 tons of cargo and 19,000 passengers per month, making it the busiest aerial port op in the Dept of Defense. The C-5 is deployed from the 22nd Airlift Sqdrn at Travis Air Force Base, Calif. The Chinook belongs to the Army's Bravo Co, 1st Bn, 52nd AR, which is deployed to Al Toqaddum.
Photo by Airman 1st Class Jason Epley, 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing.

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Dear Interested Reader,
It's always nice for us as well as our troops to hear of love and support from the home front.  The historic Mesbah olympic size pool reopens.  More progress as CF transfer authority of a portion of Doura to Iraqi SF, while a bombing and foreign fighter recruiting ring is stopped.  Many suspected AQI captured or killed, and weapons caches seized, including a VBIED.
Joanna
__________________________________

August 10, 2008

Blackanthem Military News

Airport 'grandmas' help MND-B Soldiers 'kiss' their EML goodbye

By Spc. Douglas York

Constance "Connie" Carman (left) and Linda Tinnerman (right), known by Troops as the "Official Huggin' and Kissin' Grandmas," pose for a photo with three Soldiers currently serving with the 4th ID, at the Dallas/Fort Worth Int'l Airport, where they have volunteered nearly every day for the last four years to welcome deployed servicemembers returning home for their environmental morale leave, as well as to bid them farewell as they head back overseas.

CAMP LIBERTY -  "I met them on my EML last deployment," said Sgt. 1st Class Michael Miles, who serves as plans and ops NCO, division chaplain's office, 4th ID. "You can see it on the faces of the Soldiers as they go in and out of the airport either going on leave or to return to their battle space," he added, speaking on the positive impact the ladies have on troops.
Initially, the ladies were only allowed to greet the troops as they arrived on the "Freedom" flights. Our Soldiers quickly came to expect an amazing reception of thanks and gratitude that the "grannies" spearheaded. Receiving the troops as they came in on leave, however, was not completely satisfying for the two. "We joined the USO, and this enables us to be with them on the secure side prior to their leaving," said Carman. "We are assigned to load our carts with goodies, such as food stuffs, water, toiletries, books, pillows, cell phones, and we get a chance to really visit and take our pictures," she added.
"I have been in touch with them for over 3 years, and they always meet me at the airport," said Master Sgt. Billy Arnold, who serves as the NCO in charge, division chaplain's office, 4th ID.  "They are very loving and caring ladies," he added.
"Whether you are for the war or against the war, Democrat or Republican, whatever, it doesn't make any difference as these young men are there sacrificing their lives for us. They are giving up more than people realize," Carman said.

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

Historic Mesbah pool reopens in Karadah

BAGHDAD - Children and young adults alike donned swimming trunks to take the plunge or a dive after the re-opening of the Mesbah Pool in the Karadah district of southeast Baghdad, Aug. 7.   
Iraqi officials, contractors and Soldiers from 5th Bn, 25th FA, 4th BCT, 10th Mtn Div (Lt), worked together to bring this historic pool back to the people of Iraq.
The Mesbah Pool is an Olympic-sized pool that has been around for quite a long time, since 1927, according to Nibras, the project manager for the Mesbah Pool. He said it was the first pool built in Iraq.
"A lot of the people in high-level govt positions ... remember swimming in this pool when they were children," said Capt. Sean O'Brien, effects coordinator for 5th Bn. "There is a lot of pride associated with it in the community."
Unfortunately, the pool fell into disrepair over the years. When the time came to fix it, some wanted to just tear the whole thing down and start from scratch, said Sgt. 1st Class Raymond Allen, a NCO assigned to 5th Bn. "We did our best to finish it in one month and it is a great job," he said.
Sallama Albaldway, a nearby resident, said she was very pleased to see the pool re-open and to see children given an opportunity to enjoy the pool, as she had when she was child.
"The pool is for the children of Iraq," O'Brien said. In spite of all the difficulties children in Iraq face, it is good to be able to provide them a safe and fun environment, O'Brien said.  It is a good place for youth to go to play away from threats and dangers of IEDs.
"This is a great indication of security, the beginnings of liberty (and) all of those good things that are needed in order for a true society to begin again," said O'Brien, adding that the reopening is another step toward a return to normalcy in Iraq.

The waters remain still from the view of the top of the backboard moments before the grand reopening of the Mesbah pool in the Karadah district of southeastern Baghdad, Aug. 7. The pool was the first built in Iraq and was recently restored in a collaborative effort between Iraqi government officials, contractors and Coalition Forces.
(Army photo by Sgt. Grant Okubo)

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Tip prevents potential VBIED attack in Adhamiyah

BAGHDAD - Aug. 8, "Thanks to a concerned citizen who provided the info on a potential VBIED, it was able to be secured without loss or injury to any civilians," said Maj. Byron Sarchet, info ops officer and a spokesperson for the 3rd BCT, 4th ID.
An EOD team responded and conducted a controlled detonation on the vehicle.  Within minutes of the initial detonation, there was a large, secondary explosion that resulted in damage to nearby buildings and vehicles. There were no injuries in either explosion. MND-B Soldiers will be handing out claims cards to residents whose property was damaged in the explosions.
"Because of citizens like the one who notified authorities of this potential deadly bomb, the streets of Adhamiyah remain a safe and prosperous place for residents," said Lt. Col. John Digiambattista, ops officer and a spokesperson for the 3rd BCT, 4th ID.  "This shows that the residents of this once volatile neighborhood will not tolerate those actions any longer."

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Coaltion Forces Transfer Portion of Doura to ISF Control     

By Capt. Brett Walker

IP enter an Iraqi citizens house after knocking on the door June 20, 2008 in the Jaza'ir community of southern Baghdad.

Photo by Capt. Brett Walker

FOB FALCON — The “Warriors” of 2nd Bn, 4th Inf Regt, achieved a significant goal in July by officially transferring authority of a sizeable portion of the Rashid district to their Iraqi SF counterparts.
“Transitioning authority to the Iraqi SF in accordance with MND-B goals has been a top priority,” said Maj. Mark Olin, ops officer for the 2nd Bn.  The area houses an estimated 50,000 residents.
“When we first started working with [the NPs] they were just loosely banded together,” said Pfc. Neil Hafter, infantryman. “Now they are organized and do their own patrols … even the way they handle their weapons has improved.”
The Soldiers have now assumed an over watch role that allows them to continue to supervise, mentor and assist the area’s Iraqi NP, and to ensure the enduring success and enhancement of current capabilities, said Capt. Parsana Deoki, cmdr. of Co C, 2nd Bn.  “As we continue forward to over watch, our roles as observers increase.  We are there to support the NP as needed, but give them the freedom to conduct their daily mission.”
By providing a 24-hour presence throughout Doura, the NP mollified the district’s renowned sectarian violence and coordinated attacks by 78% from April 2007 – 2008, said Olin.

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MULTI-NATIONAL FORCE-IRAQ
PRESS DESK BAGHDAD

Coalition supports Iraqi led Op Omens of Prosperity by detaining suspected terrorists

Diyala Province - CF detained 8 suspected AQI terrorists during a sweeping security op that concluded Aug. 8 near the village of Qarah Tappah, about 130 km northeast of Baghdad. The 2-day sweep northeast of the Hamrin Mountains supports the joint Iraqi and Coalition Op Omens of Prosperity, targeting terrorist elements in Diyala province.  Intel reports indicate extremist groups in the Qarah Tappah area have aligned with AQI to intimidate local residents and conduct bombing attacks, indirect fire attacks and kidnappings.  During the op, CF tracked down a man who identified himself to the force as a wanted individual.  He is allegedly the leader of a sniper cell in the area.  Another wanted man was identified by his associates as an AQI member wanted by Iraqi and Coalition authorities.  CF detained 6 additional suspected terrorists and discovered a small cache of weapons and military-style equipment, which they destroyed on site.

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MULTI-NATIONAL FORCE-IRAQ
PRESS DESK BAGHDAD

Bombing and foreign fighter recruiting ring stopped (Baghdad)     

BAGHDAD – CF killed 2 armed terrorists August 9 during the first of 2 ops targeting an alleged AQI agent who recruits Iraqis and foreigners to join the terrorist group. After surveillance teams positively identified armed terrorists meeting near Muqdadiyah, about 90 km northeast of Baghdad, CF followed 2 men who left the site and engaged them, killing both. They discovered weapons, a military-style assault vest, pistol belt and grenade with the terrorists. During a follow-on op August 10, CF captured the alleged recruiter and 2 other suspects who had also been at the meeting.  The wanted man is also reportedly involved in bombing attacks and has allegedly provided falsified documents to AQI members fleeing Diyala province during the current crackdown on terrorists there.
August 9, near Bayji, about 160 km south of Mosul, CF detained 2 suspected AQI terrorists believed to support the foreign terrorist network.  August 10, CF conducted a follow-on op targeting a wanted man, who identified himself to them during the raid.  He is assessed to be an AQI facilitator who falsified passports and ID documents for foreign terrorists entering Iraq. CF detained 2 additional suspects in the op. Another August 10 op targeting members of the AQI foreign terrorist facilitation network in Mosul turned up 2 suspects.
A precision operation August 9 in Hamam al-Alil, just south of Mosul, netted a man wanted for his suspected support for AQI senior leaders and their financial infrastructure.  The man admitted to the force that he associates with several alleged AQI leaders.  He has also reportedly helped in the construction of bombs used to attack Iraqis and SF.

CF conducted a precision op in Baghdad August 10 and captured a wanted man who is believed to be part of an extremist group that has aligned itself with AQI to recruit and conduct attacks. Just south of the city, CF detained 2 suspected terrorists who are reportedly part of AQI’s network in the Southern Belt around Baghdad, which targets Iraqi civilians.

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Dear Interested Reader,
The IA and CF continue successful missions to maintain security throughout Iraq.  Op Summit Pursuit bring hope to the area near Kirkuk.  Task Force Vigilant provides security to the region near the Baghdad Int'l Airport.  "Furniture Road" opens to promise of economic stimulation.  AQI terrorists captured, as well as other criminals.  Large weapons and munition caches seized.
Joanna
________________________________________

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

Aug. 9, 2008

Iraqi Forces Continue Coalition Success, Maintain Security Throughout Iraq     

By Army Staff Sgt. Michael J. Carden

A U.S. Soldier and Iraqi soldier play with a child for a moment as his family speaks with the IA and CF about activity in their local area, July 29, 2008 in the Al Jazeera desert of Balad.
Photo by Staff Sgt. Micky Bazaldua.

BAGHDAD — Despite the recent drawdown of coalition troops in Iraq, violence levels continue to drop as Iraqi SF grow in competency and size, a senior coalition spokesman said Aug. 7.  The last of the 5 original surge bdes, 2 Marine bns and an Australian battle group have redeployed without the need for replacements, said Navy Rear Adm. Patrick Driscoll.
At the same time, Iraqi forces have grown by more than 148,000 troops, and the Sunni Muslim SoI citizen security groups are more than 100,000 members strong, Driscoll said. “This [Iraqi forces surge] explains how we can continue to see very low levels of violence even though [CF] have taken away a lot of combat power based,” he said.
Recent Iraqi-led ops in Basra have allowed the local citizens to regain control of their city. The ops drove the insurgency - mostly Iranian-backed “Special Groups” criminals - either into hiding or into Iran for sanctuary, the admiral said. “The ops in Basra really instituted the rule of law there,” Driscoll said. “The people there are able to live freely again without intimidation and extortion by militias.”
The ops were also a great success for the GOI and PM. Individuals who once saw PM Nouri al-Maliki as a leader partial to a certain sect, now proclaim him as a nationalist, a leader for the people of Iraq, he said.
Recent ops in Amarah and Baghdad’s Sadr City neighborhood saw similar success by Iraqi SF and local SoI. Iranian-backed Special Groups and militia gangs were forced from the cities, reportedly to Iran to find refuge, he said.
Coalition and Iraqi forces in Diyala province and Mosul, however, are fighting a “more determined enemy,” he said.  Iraqi forces recently launched a large-scale op against al-Qaida in Mosul but were unsuccessful.  Mosul is a key territory for al-Qaida because of its location along the Syrian border, which is an important line of communication and an infiltration route into Iraq. Al-Qaida is determined to maintain its foothold, he said. “What you saw and what you’re seeing now in Mosul and Diyala is a more determined enemy in terms of holding ground,” he explained. “Al-Qaida still remains a lethal threat.”
Despite al-Qaida’s perseverance, Driscoll said, the terrorist group isn’t as influential as it once was.  Less than 2 years ago, it was a powerful group on the brink of causing a civil war in Iraq, he said.  But today, al-Qaida doesn’t hold any territory or city. The group’s fighters still have “pocket areas” in Diyala, Mosul and Anbar, but Iraqi SF and  CFs are very aggressively targeting to eliminate them, he added.
As Iraqi SF develop into a national defense force, CF continue to develop the Iraqis’ counterinsurgency force within in the IA, which is showing much-improved capabilities, he said. “The Iraqis are really developing and have come a long way,” Driscoll said. “It takes a while to develop the kind of leadership they’ve shown. We’re focusing on that key leadership and bolstering them so we have a vibrant and successful counterinsurgency force.”

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Operation Summit Pursuit Brings ‘hope’ to a Region Once Terrorized by AQI     

By Staff Sgt. Margaret C. Nelson

A mother stands near the tombstone marking the grave of her son in Taq Taq, Iraq.  Her son was killed by AQI for assisting the CF last year.
Photo by Staff Sgt. Margaret Nelson.

FOB MC HENRY — Amid the turmoil and political uncertainty that clouds the future of their provincial capital city, Op Summit Pursuit - spearheaded by Soldiers of 1st Bn, 87th Inf Regt, approx. 30 miles southwest of Kirkuk - brought hope to the people in the Districts of Hawijah and Sharqat, united Iraqi SF, Sunni-Arab tribal and local govt leadership and the SoI.
“This cooperative effort, which began July 27, partially destroyed the remnants of AQI along the Northern Tigris River Valley and brought a prolonged military presence to the people in those regions - not seen in over 3 years,” Lt. Col. Christopher Vanek, cmdr, 1st Bn, said at the conclusion of the op on Aug. 5, 2008.
This op focused on the district’s northern most regions concentrating on the villages of Hegnah, Sabah and Taq Taq; once safe havens for notable AQI operatives such as al Zarqawi, according to Sheik Razzaq of Hegnah. “Since December we have had many changes here,” Razzaq said, referring to the inception of Task Force Summit’s reconciliation efforts and the establishment of the SoI program.
“This is the first time that we have had Iraqi SF and CF in Hegnah.  Because of their commitment to our people, we are able to live in peace and begin rebuilding our lives without fear,” he said.
The sheik whose influence covers Hegnah, Safinah, and Sadarah also thanked the CF for their assistance in bringing attention to much needed projects for villages in the area.  “We need to get some form of representative govt established in Taq Taq, or we will continue to see that area of Salah ad-Din susceptible to AQI exploitation and usage as a safe haven,” Vanek said.
A formal request to form a sub-district in this region is currently underway and will be filtered through the Salah ad-Din PRT and officially presented to the provincial govt for authorization to form a sub-district council.  “If we can at least get the process started for these people, that will be the single-most enduring accomplishment we will have fulfilled in this op.” Vanek said.
During Op Summit Pursuit, 19 future projects total for Iraqi Cmdr’s Emergency Response Program consideration were identified in the villages visited.  Some of the projects submitted include schools, medical clinics and water projects.

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Vigilance in Community Provides Peace     

By Staff Sgt Michel Sauret

Pvt. William Tulloch, driver for Task Force Vigilant, stands guard during a home assessment visit in southern Baghdad, Aug. 1, 2008.
Photo by Staff Sgt. Michel Sauret.

BAGHDAD — Upon the wall of their ops cell, a painting depicts a lion head with a banner reading, "Vigilance is Excellence."
However, for Task Force Vigilant, a patrolling and quick-reaction team for MND - Center, vigilance also stands for peace. "If we weren't doing patrols, it wouldn't be as calm as it is," said Pvt. Adam Burrell, a team driver.
TF Vigilant patrols neighborhoods near the Baghdad Int'l Airport to ensure the security of the local community.  They do this through housing assessments and night patrols aimed at keeping streets clear during curfew hours outside of the Victory Base Complex perimeters.
"In the end, we are making a difference because we're establishing control," said Pvt. William Tulloch, a team patrolman and driver.
The majority of the people in the community work for the airport. The villages provide the people with housing near work at affordable living rates. In order to continually improve living conditions, TF Vigilant Soldiers introduce themselves to households and ask household members to fill out a survey.  If there are ever issues needing resolved, such as improving sewage or electricity, the team coordinates with higher headquarters or their civil affairs counterpart.
During their housing assessments, TF Vigilant Soldiers meet with the local assistant mayor and interview homeowners to evaluate living conditions. The assistant mayor will often invite the Vigilant Soldiers into his house to share chai tea and conversations about his family and the community.
The patrol team also gathers the people's opinions on the work of IP, the govt's involvement, their job satisfaction and coalition presence. "Most of the time, the people like us being there. They like the security," Tapia said.
When the Vigilant Soldiers aren't on patrol, they serve as a quick reaction force. The QRF element reacts to any indirect fire attacks and provides support to patrolling units in case of an emergency.  Lately and luckily, the streets have been quiet.  During these calmer times, the QRF spends most of its time training - always ready to react. Fortunately, these days, the need is less frequent.

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ISOF detain six suspected AQI, seven others in Diyala province operations

BALAD -  Aug. 6, ISOF detained 2 suspected AQI terrorists pursuant to a Ministry of Interior warrant and 7 other suspects in Kanaan, approx. 15 km east of Baqubah. The individuals are reportedly IED emplacers in the area.
In another op, ISOF detained 2 suspected AQI cell members in Abu Tamur Village, approx. 17 km northwest of Baqubah, pursuant to a Ministry of Justice warrant. 
In a separate op conducted in Galwaz Village, the Muqdadiyah SWAT team detained 2 suspected AQI cell members. The individuals are believed to be responsible for IED emplacement in the greater Wahihiyah area.

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Furniture Road opens to Zafaraniyah commuters

BAGHDAD - Iraqi commuters have a new route to take in the Zafaraniyah neighborhood of eastern Baghdad as Furniture Road opened for public transportation Aug. 7.     
Motorists and pedestrians now have access to Furniture Road, thanks to the combined efforts of Iraqi local govt officials, contractors and Soldiers from 5th Bn, 25th FAR, 4th BCT, 10th Mtn Div (Lt).
The addition of Furniture Road, which spans just a few kilometers, opens a major conduit for the people in Zafaraniyah, said Capt. Sean O'Brien, effects coordinator for 5th Bn., 25th FAR.
"This is going to be an explosion of economic development here as more people come down and buy their supplies and equipment down this road from the market area," said Master Sgt. David Stewart, Co B, 418th CAB. The opening of Furniture Road signifies an important step toward improving the levels of governance, economics and security in the area, said O'Brien. The new road will allow residents to get to places that would have been more challenging before, and do so with more speed and ease. Other benefits include more businesses projected to open along Furniture Road.
In addition to the new road opening, Iraqi and MND-B officials have initiated efforts to clean up the area and improve the sewage lines running near the road to help better the economic conditions in that area, said O'Brien. "The road is beautiful now," expressed O'Brien. "Where there was once a dirt road, there is now an asphalt road for local commuters to travel on. I feel really good about this.  I really love seeing local civics in action, and I really love seeing opportunities taken to give something back to a very deserving people."

Dr. Al-Rubeiy, Karadah District Council chairman, cuts a ribbon Aug. 7 during the opening of Furniture Road. Joining Al-Rubeiy are Adel Al-Moussey (far right), manager for the Furniture Road project; Yasser Maleh (middle left), a member of the Diyala Neighborhood Council and several interested onlookers. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Grant Okubo)

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MND-B Soldiers seize weapons cache west of Baghdad

BAGHDAD - Aug. 7 while conducting a cache search, at approx. 12:30 p.m., Soldiers with Co C, 1st Inf Bn, 21st Inf Regt, 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID, seized 15 hand grenades, 14 120 mm high-explosive projectiles, a PG-7 projectile, 12 82 mm mortars, 72 73 mm high-explosive projectiles, 2 130 mm projectiles, 9 120 mm rocket-propellant charges, 25 82 mm mortar-propellant charges, 2 PG-propellant charges, 1,000 7.62 mm PKC machinegun ammo rounds, 480 7.62 mm AK-47 ammo rounds, 4 hand grenade fuses and a large variety of bomb-making materials.

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MND-B Soldiers detain suspected terrorist, cohort in Karadah

BAGHDAD - Soldiers from the 4th BCT, 10th Mtn Div (Lt), detained a suspected AQI terrorist, along with one of his associates in eastern Baghdad, Aug. 7.
Soldiers from 5th Bn, 25th FAR received info from an adjacent unit that the suspected terrorist was in their area of ops. The patrol detained the wanted man and another suspect while conducting an op specifically targeting the alleged terrorist in the Karadah District of eastern Baghdad. The individuals are suspected of involvement in a recent suicide-vest bomber attack in Karadah and VBIED and other IED networks in Karkh and surrounding areas of Baghdad.  In addition to detaining the suspects, the patrol confiscated an IP uniform.

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ISF detain six suspected terrorists, nine others in northern Iraq

BALAD, Iraq -  IA Soldiers detained a suspected AQI IED cell leader near Sinjar, Aug. 5. The suspected terrorist, allegedly an emir of IED ops in Mosul, reportedly came to the area to elude capture in Mosul.
In an op in Mosul, Aug. 5, Mosul SWAT team detained a suspected member of the ISI, a front org. for the foreign-led AQI, and 5 others.  Mosul SWAT conducted the op to clear a riverbank of safe houses used by ISI/AQI to store weapons and to traffic men, weapons and equipment across the river. 
IA Soldiers detained 4 suspected ISI/AQI members in al- Hawd, approx. 55 km south of Mosul, Aug. 4. The suspects are reportedly involved with IED cells in the area.  One of the suspects is said to be a key terrorist facilitator and recruiter in the Tigris River Valley. Two of the other suspects are allegedly IED emplacers in the Tigris River Valley. The IA also detained another suspect during the op.
In al-Karama Aug. 3, the IA detained a suspected member of an IED cell who is believed to manufacture and emplace IEDs and home-made explosives. The individual  allegedly is part of an ISI/AQI cell and was an IED facilitator in the al-Karama neighborhood.
In Ninewa Province Aug. 2, Tal Afar SWAT team detained 2 suspected ISI/AQI cell members believed to be facilitating terrorists.  One of the suspects tested positive for TNT residue on his hands.

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Dear Interested Reader,
With displaced persons returning to their homes in Baqubah, food and water were distributed by IA and 4th Plt, Fox Co.  New police station opens in Lutifiyah, which will put more IP on the streets.  Next "greatest generation" young troops under 25 responsible for keeping Apache helicopters in the sky.  Camp Taji holds its first "sergeant" graduating class.  Large weapons and munitions caches seized, while AQI terrorists and other criminals are detained.
Joanna
____________________________________

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

Aug. 8, 2008

Blackanthem Military News

Next 'greatest generation' keeping Apache's in the sky

By Sgt. 1st Class Brent Hunt

Pfc. Kyle Sprouse, 24, Co D, 4th Bn, 4th AR, Combat Avn. Bde, 4th ID, arms an Apache helicopter on Camp Taji, July 29.  Many Soldiers throughout the brigade, who are under the age of 25, are responsible for maintaining, fueling and arming the combat helicopters.
(Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Brent Hunt)

CAMP TAJI - While some young citizens around the world are worried about their car, their clique or even their tan, many youthful Soldiers throughout the CAB, 4th ID are concerned about a little more.  Tasked with keeping multi-million dollar aircraft serviced, operational and in the air, Apache helicopter mechanics, armament repairmen and fuelers are charged with keeping the pilots flying to protect the Soldiers on the ground.
Deemed by many as the next 'greatest generation,' the only tan these young Soldiers get is on the back of their necks from working long hours on the Camp Taji flight line where temperatures can reach higher than 130 degrees. "I maintain this aircraft from top to bottom," said Spc. Edwin Sierra, 23, crew chief, Co A, 4th Bn, grins with pride as he talks about the aircraft he is working on. "This is a lot of work and a lot of responsibility since the aircraft flies a lot.  I can fix anything on this aircraft, besides the armament."
The Apache is the principal attack helicopter of the U.S. Army. With a price tag of more than $18 million, the combat helicopters seat only a pilot and a gunner who are equipped with a 30 mm fixed machine gun, hellfire missiles and rockets.  In addition to the arsenal, the helicopter is capable of flying day or night and has a target acquisition system, pilot night vision system, global positioning system and an integrated helmet and display sight system.
With a complex fleet of aircraft and ceaseless missions, keeping the aircraft in the air, fueled and armed is vital.  Although the task may seem daunting to the average person, many of the CAB's youthful Soldiers barely blink an eye.  "I load the hellfire missiles, rockets and the 30 mm cannon," said Pfc Kyle Sprouse, 24, armament, electrical and avionics systems repair. "We maintain all the armament, communication and avionics. This is a complicated aircraft and it always keeps me busy. Doing this job is very fast-paced, because we are constantly loading and downloading ammo."
"My job is to refuel the Apache aircrafts on the flight line," said Spc. Thomas Elfar, 25, petroleum supply specialist, Co. E, who is on his second tour to Iraq in support of OIF. Elfar and his wife, Jessica, recently celebrated second child before he was deployed. "I've had as many as twelve aircraft at once needing to be refueled during my tours here in Iraq.  Each one requires about 350 gallons and they can't fly without fuel.  Flying is how they (pilots) support the ground troops. Keeping them in the air is how we support the mission."

Spc. Edwin Sierra, 23, gets the combat helicopter ready for flight.

 

Cpl. Christopher Spencer, Apache helicopter mechanic, Co D, works on an Apache helicopter.

Pfc. Kyle Sprouse, 24, loads an Apache helicopter with ammo.

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Blackanthem Military News

The Right Man for the Job

By 1st Lt. Bryan Bridges and Sgt. Aaron LeBlanc

Sgt. Carlton Rodney works on a tactical vehicle in the maintenance bay.

(U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Aaron LeBlanc)

CAMP TAJI - It is often said that National Guard Soldiers bring unique and useful skills from their civilian careers with them into their military lives.  As active duty tours have become more and more commonplace for America's citizen-Soldiers, the accuracy of this assertion has been proven with increasing frequency.  One Soldier helping to prove that point is Sgt. Carlton Rodney, of the Arkansas National Guard's, Btry B, 1st Bn, 206th Field Artillery, who recently saved U.S. taxpayers an estimated $20,000 by applying his skills as an electrician to repair an industrial-sized air compressor through the procurement and installation of an $80 component.
The offending compressor belonged to the 536th Maintenance Co.  It was originally intended to power all types of pneumatic tools vital to the successful completion of the 536th's mission, which includes the installation of upgraded armor on various tactical vehicles employed by troops serving in Iraq, making them directly responsible for enhancing the survivability of U.S. Soldiers in combat.
The combined efforts of Dept. of Defense civilians, bn maintenance officers, and Soldiers from other shops quickly turned up the civilian-acquired skills of Sgt. Rodney.  Within minutes Rodney diagnosed the problem and identified the part needed.  A week of scrounging Camp Taji produced the needed part which he installed immediately. For the first time in one and a half years, the primary air compressor of the shop was fully operational thanks to the expertise of a citizen-Soldier.

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

Iraqi Army, MND-N Soldiers assist more than 150 families

DIYALA -  Members of the IA and 4th Plt, Fox Co, 4th Sqdrn, 2nd Stryker Cav Regt distributed 1,250 pounds of food
and water to citizens of Baqubah, Aug. 5.
"This event demonstrates that the Iraqi SF and the GoI are committed to providing essential services and needed supplies to the local populace," said Maj. Jon Pendell, a 2nd Stryker Cav Regt spokesperson.

Local nationals carry food supplies. The drop assisted Iraqi displaced persons who have recently returned to their homes. The return was made possible by the increased security during Op Benevolent Diyala.

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SoI leads MND-N Soldiers to large cache west of Samarra

SAMARRA - A SoI group led Soldiers from the 2nd Bn, 327th Inf Regt to a large weapons cache in the Jazeera Desert, west of Samarra Aug. 6.
The cache consisted of more than 110 land mines, 90 57 mm warheads, 17 80 mm mortar rounds, 10 hand grenades, 10 80 mm high-explosive grenades and numerous artillery rounds and rockets.  Also found in the cache were more than 900 lbs. of potassium nitrate, 100 lbs. of propellant and 4 propane tanks, which are commonly used in producing homemade explosives used in improvised and vehicle-borne explosive devices.
"The tips from local citizens and SoI groups in the desert areas around Samarra have resulted in thousands of pounds of explosives taken from the enemy over past several months," said Lt. Col. John King, 1st BCT, 101st Abn Div dep. cmdr.

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ISOF, Baghdad National ERB capture eight AQI, detain two more in Diyala

BALAD -  On Aug. 6, in the Diyala River Valley area, Iraqi SOF captured 2 suspected AQI network members. The individuals are believed to have recruited and trained female suicide bombers in the Old Baqubah neighborhood of the city.
ISOF arrested 4 other suspected AQI terrorists on a Ministry of Justice warrant and detained 2 others near Muqdadiya, August 5.
During a separate op in the Diyala River Valley area, Aug. 5, Baghdad NER Bde captured 2 cell members from the ISI, a front org. for the foreign-led AQI.

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MND-B Soldiers seize weapons cache in Baghdad

1st Bn, 27th Inf Regt, 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID, attached to the 4th BCT, 10th Mtn Div, seized a large weapons cache in the Baghdad district of New Baghdad, Aug. 6.

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New police station opens in Lutifiyah

BAGHDAD - Officials from the Mahmudiyah Qada gathered for a ceremony marking the grand opening of the Lutifiyah Police Station, Aug. 2.  The new base of ops for approx. 200 IP, under construction since January, will allow for an increased IP presence in the area.
The police chief urged Iraqis to stand strong together against all of those who wish to destroy the country of Iraq.  Al Frejee, 17th IA Div cmdr.,  said terrorists and criminals aim to destroy Iraq and its people, but support and courage from the people of the Mahmudiyah Qada helped make the area safe.  "This was the Triangle of Death, now it is safe. You can go anywhere," Al Frejee said.

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Blackanthem Military News

Camp Taji's first Areef "Sergeant" Graduation

By Staff Sgt. James E. Brown Jr.

Command Sgt. Maj. Wahed, of the Iraqi Grant Forces Command, talks to his fellow Soldiers after the 1st Areef "Sergeant" graduation ceremony held at the Taji theatre, July 31.
(Army Photo by Staff Sgt. James E. Brown Jr.)

CAMP TAJI - The air was filled with excitement and joy for the Soldiers who were beginning to form up for the first graduating class of the Areef "Sergeant" Course conducted by the IA NCO Academy. This historic occasion put forth 23 IA Soldiers of various occupational job skills to complete this experimental course that taught basic leadership skills and some Infantry techniques by U.S. Army advisors of various units within the 1st Sustainment Bde.  This is the first time that this course has been taught at Camp Taji and appears to have been a success.
"The course was mandated by the Iraqi Minister of Defense and designed to raise the level of confidence of the NCO and the IA, to give them the skills and the knowledge to train their fellow Soldiers," said Sgt. 1st Class Carl Miller, senior advisor to the Iraqi NCO Academy and a Soldier of the 1st Sustainment Bde.
The Command Sgt Major of the IA, Command Sgt. Maj. Wahed of the Iraqi Ground Forces Command congratulated several Soldiers for their new accomplishment.  Many of the students appeared to be very enthusiastic of the appearance of their top NCO of the IA.  After the ceremony concluded, many of the Iraqi Soldiers scrambled to talk to their Command Sgt Maj.

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Sgt. Thomas Curtis, is a force protection NCO for the 1123rd Transportation Co, 1-152nd Calvary Regt, 1st Sustainment Bde. "I do what I can to improve things around here," said Curtis.
(Army photo by 1st Lt. George Fowler)

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Dear Interested Reader,

Kudos to the 168th BSB for completing 3,000 missions!  Enjoy some great pics of the goings on at the airfield in Camp Taji.  More than 500,000 Iraqis will now have purified water in their neighborhoods, something we take for granted.  Salvadoran and U.S. Military Medics treat villagers, while the future of Ramadi youths look bright.  Security increases as more terrorists are captured, and weapons and munition caches continue to be seized.
Joanna
_______________________________________

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

Aug. 7, 2008

Blackanthem Military News

"Make It Happen" reaches 3,000 Missions

By Capt. Jennifer St. John, HQ, 168th BSB

Soldiers with the Heavy Equipment Truck Transport (HETT) Plt, 416th Transportation Co, attached to the 57th Transportation Co, 168th BSB, 1st Sustainment Bde, make sure a Stryker is loaded onto their M1000 trailer properly. The HETT Plt is on a 15 month rotation in Iraq and moves heavy equipment throughout the MND Baghdad footprint.
(Army photo by Staff Sgt. David Jenkins)

CAMP LIBERTY - The 168th BSB has reached a significant milestone in its quest to being the best support bn in the Army.  Since arriving in Iraq less than a year ago, the battalion has conducted more than 3,000 Deliberate Combat Logistics Patrols as part of its efforts to sustain units located at 8 FOBs across MNDn - Baghdad and MND - Central.
The growing and expanding of JSSs and COPs in Iraq has increased the requirement for all types of barriers.  These barriers are not only used for the safety and security of Soldiers, but for traffic control in and around Baghdad.  The battalion also utilizes private security elements and private trucking companies to accomplish this task.  They are instrumental in moving and emplacing barriers along some of the most dangerous routes in Baghdad including areas around Sadr City.
Working together, this team has completed more 5,100 TMRs and has moved about 28,000 pieces of cargo not including commodities such as food, water and fuel. Through all these moving pieces, the SPO section has discovered the key to planning a successful DCLP operation is following the process and using the systems that they have established.  The section must adhere to the same standards and discipline that are instilled in all the Soldiers of the 168th BSB.  Teamwork throughout the battalion and at every level enables the unit to "Make it Happen."  This is why reaching their 3,000th DCLP is such a celebration.

Staff Sgt. Severo Henry, truck driver with the HETT Pln, conducts a radio check just prior to a convoy mission, here June 26. 
(Army photo by Staff Sgt. Bryant Maude)

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Blackanthem Military News

A Day at the CAB, 4th Inf. Div. airfield

By Sgt. Jason Dangel

CAMP TAJI

 A U.S. Army AH-64D Apache Attack helicopter from the CAB, 4th ID, prepares to land after the conclusion of a mission on Camp Taji, July 28. The Apache has been the Army's primary attack helicopter since 1984 and has seen action in Panama, the Gulf War, Op Enduring Freedom and Op Iraqi Freedom.
(Army photo by Sgt. Jason Dangel)

 
Spc. Benjamin Reagan, crew chief, Co C, 1st Bn, 4th AR, CAB, 4th ID, pressure washes an AH-64D Apache Attack helicopter at the bde's airfield on Camp Taji, July 28.

 

 
A UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter from the CAB, 4th ID, prepares to take-off from the brigade's airfield.  The helicopter has been in service for the U.S. Army since 1979 and can perform a wide array of ops to include tactical transport of personnel and air assaults. 

Spc. Joseph Yatzor, crew chief, Co A, 3rd Bn, prepares a UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter for a mission.

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Officials open water distribution site, fill trucks for delivery

BAGHDAD - More than 500,000 Iraqi residents have purified water headed to their neighborhoods as Baghdad Water Authority officials, along with Iraqi leaders and leaders from the 4th BCT, 10th Mtn Div, opened a water distribution site at JSS Al Khansa in eastern Baghdad, Aug. 3.
After officials opened the site, 2 BWA drivers filled their trucks with purified water for distribution to residents in their neighborhoods.
When the site is fully operational, Al Khansa area residents can expect an estimated 10 BWA trucks delivering water in their neighborhoods daily.  Each truck will contain 12,000 to 15,000 liters of purified water and, initially, the site will service at least 500,000 citizens.
In addition, the water distribution site at Al Khansa has 3 taps for people to fill small containers with purified water on site. 

  

From left, Hato Hassan, 9th Nissan district council chairman; Wadi Al Shamari, another 9th Nissan councilman; and Iraqi Brig. Gen.  Hassoun, cmdr., refresh themselves with purified water from taps.
(Army photo by Staff Sgt. Matt Meadows)

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MND-B Soldiers detain three suspected criminals

BAGHDAD - Aug. 6, in the Rashid district of southern Baghdad, at approx. 1:30 a.m. in the Jihad community, Soldiers from the Scout Plt, HHC, 1st Bn, 22nd Inf Regt, 1st BCT, 4th ID, detained the 3 suspected roadside bomb emplacers. 
   
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IA soldiers seize large weapons cache in Sadr City

BAGHDAD - An Iraqi citizen led IA Soldiers to a weapons cache in the Sadr City district of Baghdad Aug. 4. "We saved a lot of lives tonight," said Maj. Gen. Muzer, cmdr of the 11th IA Div. "We will never know how many, but this is something of which we can be proud."
The cache consisted of 28 107 mm Iranian rockets; a 107 mm Chinese rocket; 7 122 mm Russian rockets; 63 60 mm Iranian mortars; a 240 mm warhead; 25 Chinese fuses; 25 Iranian fuses; a propellant charge for a RPG; a 120 mm mortar tube; 2 Iranian 60 mm mortar tubes; a 81 mm mortar tube; 8 107 mm rocket launchers; 8 mortar sights; IED-making materials, and video tapes of attacks on Iraqi Security and CF.
The weapons cache consisted of new Iranian munitions with a manufacture date of early 2008. Both the 107 mm and 122 mm rocket types were used against the International Zone and civilian populace throughout Baghdad during late March and early May. There were approx. 1,100 rockets fired, resulting in 149 civilian casualties in that timeframe.   
   
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MND-B Soldiers detain four suspected terrorists in southern Baghdad

BAGHDAD -  Aug. 4, in the Rashid district of southern Baghdad, Soldiers from HHC, 1st Bn, 22nd Inf Regt, 1st BCT, 4th ID,  detained 4 suspected AQI members at approximately 11 p.m. in the Aamel community.

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Salvadoran, U.S. Military Medical Teams Help Iraqi Villagers       

By Army Sgt. Daniel T. West

Salvadoran 1st Lt. Alfaro, examines an Iraqi boy's crippled hands during a medical activity by American and Salvadoran doctors at the Jameer clinic in the Zuwarijat district of Kut, July 31, 2008.  The event kicked off Op Bring on the Docs, designed to identify and improve health-care capabilities in Kut.
Army photo by Sgt. Daniel T. West, 41st Fires Brigade

FOB DELTA —  The event kicked off Op Bring on the Docs, a multiphase op with the Wasit province’s Health Ministry, which is designed to identify and improve health care capabilities, said Army Col. (Dr.) Italo Bastianelli, 41st Fires Bde surgeon. “The overall objective is to develop an Iraqi-led, enduring, quality health care system within Wasit province,” he said.
The Zuwarijat op was held at the Wasit Health Ministry’s Jamaheer clinic, and focused on education for local health care professionals and citizens of the district.  Medical assistance visits are planned and executed in cooperation with Iraqi health care professionals, Bastianelli said. Coalition health care providers use the visits to understand limitations local doctors face and to improve their ability to care for their patients, he said.  “With improved training, facilities, medical equipment and supplies, Iraqi health professionals will be able to take the lead in caring for the Iraqi people,” Bastianelli said. “This will allow CF medical assets to take advisory and support roles.”
About 200 patients received treatment, which focused on preventive medicine, at the Jamaheer clinic during the event. “It’s a good experience for young medics and doctors to get out and see the people of Iraq, and work with them, to help rebuild the country,” said Army Pfc. Jessica Rush, of Co C, 589th BSB, one of the medics on the scene.
“All together, it was fun,” added Army Pfc. Dana Larsen, also of Co C. “We never got a rest or lunch break, and didn’t even notice. We did a lot, but there are so many more things we wish we could have done, but couldn’t.” They will have their chance. The operation’s work in the area should take about 2 months to complete, Bastianelli said.

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Al-Qaeda Being Targeted, Captured       

BAGHDAD — Iraqi and CF targeted AQI elements in the central and northern part of the country August 5 & 6, detaining 3 wanted men and 7 additional suspects.
In Baghdad August 5, CF captured a wanted man and 2 additional suspected terrorists during an op to further disrupt the AQI foreign terrorist facilitation network. Intel reports indicate the wanted man is well-connected to international terrorists.
In a precision raid August 5, near Khanaqin, about 150 km southeast of Kirkuk, CF captured a wanted man with suspected ties to a recently detained regional AQI leader.
Another op in Khanaqin on August 6 targeted a foreign terrorist facilitator involved in suicide bombings.  CF detained a suspected terrorist.
Iraqi and CF near Hawijah, about 60 km southwest of Kirkuk, captured a wanted man who allegedly conspires with an AQI regional leader. The force detained 2 additional suspects.
Targeting an AQI cell leader responsible for attacks against civilians, CF detained 2 suspected terrorists in Sharqat, about 90 km south of Mosul.  One suspect was injured during the op, but was treated on site by CF medics.
 
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Future of Ramadi Youth Looks Bright     

By Lance Cpl. Casey Jones

An Iraqi boy cheers on his neighborhood's soccer team during the Ramadi Youth Conference soccer tournament, July 23, 2008.
Photo by Lance Cpl. Casey Jones.

RAMADI — Nearly 3,000 school-aged children from various neighborhoods in Ramadi joined recently for the city’s inaugural Ramadi Youth Conference; one more sign the region is on the right road to recovery after years of intense violence.  The city’s officials, in conjunction with the ePRT-Ramadi and 1st Bn, 9th Marine Regt, Regimental Combat Team 1, hosted the conference at the south Ramadi indoor olympic gym, July 21-24, 2008, to help improve the children’s future.
“The 4-day conference was intended to boost the capabilities of the youth,” said Air Force Col. Mary Ann P. Ante-Amburgey, the ePRT social affairs leader for Ramadi. “The event was also designed to encourage them to demonstrate their national pride and to stay in school because the future of Iraq is in their hands.”
The coordinators of the conference mixed fun with knowledge by holding classes about leadership; hosting several guest speakers including the city’s mayor, a health dept. rep., the dir. gen. of education and the DG of youth and sports;  and also holding sports tournaments and cultural contests.
The children are a “metaphor for the city’s revival,” Ante-Amburgey said.  The children, just like the city, are still growing and are still susceptible to radical Islamic groups trying to prevent advancement in the region.  The city’s youth, especially those between 14 and 18, had been a recruiting base for the insurgency, she said. The conference showed the children there are other options for their energies and talents.
“It proved to them that their future is brighter now than what it was during those violent years,” said Ante-Amburgey. “I’ve met many Iraqis who really wanted to make a difference in their community and wish for their kids’ lives to be better than theirs.”
Leaders in the region, making the most of peace and tranquility, are planning several more conferences in the upcoming weeks and months. The city has scheduled a medical conference, leadership summit, and several soccer tournaments in the near future.

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MULTI-NATIONAL FORCE-IRAQ
PRESS DESK
BAGHDAD, Iraq

Coalition forces destroy weapons caches in Lake Thar Thar region     

BAGHDAD – CF discovered and destroyed 2 weapons caches during a mission ending Aug. 2 to disrupt AQI ops near Lake Thar Thar in central Iraq.  Intel reports indicate the Lake Thar Thar region is used by AQI leaders and operatives as a transit route, safe haven, and training area for foreign terrorists brought into Iraq. CF conducted a methodical 72-hour security sweep of the area and discovered 2 weapons caches.
One of the caches contained several rifles, pistols and armor-piercing ammo.  Another cache, hidden behind false walls in a building, contained more than 10,000 rounds of various ammo and bomb-making materials.  CF called for supporting aircraft, which destroyed the building and cache inside.

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Helping Hand

An IA Soldier helps an elderly woman cross the street in Abu Ghraib, Aug. 2, 2008. The Iraqi Soldiers accompanied U.S. Army Gen. David Petraeus, comm. gen. of MNF - Iraq, as he toured the town's market.
Army photo by Spc. Charles W. Gill.

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Dear Interested Reader,
An important HQ opened for the Dept. of Border Enforcement, while ISOF graduate a public affairs and photojournalism course to combat misinformation. "Phenomenal progress" reported in Rashid district, while officials open water distribution site in eastern Baghdad. Precision operation detains AQI leader in Samarra. More terrorists detained and weapons caches seized.
Joanna
__________________________________

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

Aug. 6, 2008

Brigade Commander Cites ‘Phenomenal Progress’ in Rashid District

By Jim Garamone

1st Lt. Justin Crawford says hello to a group of young Iraqis, July 26, in the Rashid District of southern Baghdad. The Soldiers conduct daily patrols and assessments within the community to assess the security situation in the area that was once plagued with special groups criminals and terrorist activity.

Photo by Staff Sgt. Brent Williams.

Baghdad — Iraqi SF have made such an improvement that CF in Baghdad’s Rashid district are able to turn their attention to rebuilding the area. Army Col. Ted Martin, cmdr. of the 4th ID’s 1st BCT, said Aug. 4 that he has seen “phenomenal progress” since he was first in Iraq in 2003. “For the first time, I've seen Iraqi SF that can plan, prepare and execute first-class offensive ops,” Martin said via video teleconference from Camp Falcon. “I've also seen a high level of trust and respect by the people of Rashid for their own army and police forces. Together, we conduct relentless offensive ops designed to kill, capture or drive from Rashid anyone who threatens the safety and security of the people we have sworn to protect,” he said.
“I believe this reduction in violence is a direct result of the conditions set by the success of the surge in forces and combat power,” Martin said. “We built on this success and have seen a dramatic reduction in violence in the past four months.”
The biggest change in the region is in the mood of the people of the district, Martin said. Since May, the local population has provided the intel helpful to Coalition and Iraqi forces in taking on the enemy, he said. “There seemed to be a wedge that was placed between the people and the insurgents, and we tried to exploit that,” he added.
Martin said the reduction in violence has allowed him and his soldiers to shift their focus toward improving essential services and helping their Iraqi SF partners. “It is my firm belief that the decisive defeat of the special group criminals and militias in May and June of this year has opened a window of opportunity for us to make substantial and lasting improvements in the Rashid district,” he said.
The Iraqi government is kicking in on the reconstruction effort in the district, contributing $18 million in government funds, and Martin said he expects that amount to rise as the govt becomes more established.

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ISOF soldiers graduate public affairs, photojournalism course to combat misinformation

BALAD - Ten Iraqi SOF soldiers will be able to help combat the insurgency's campaign of misinformation after graduating from a 15-day ISOF Public Affairs and Photojournalism Course in Baghdad, July 31.
During the course, the students wrote stories about activities happening at ISOF headquarters. As part of their coursework, each student wrote a story on a live-fire training exercise, an outing between ISOF and a children's scouting program, a personality feature and a unit feature.
The main goal is for the students to use their new skills to build trust and maintain a positive relationship between ISOF and the people of Iraq. "The most valuable thing is the trust of the people," said an Iraqi Counter Terrorism Forces sgt. "It starts with the truth. Telling the truth was a central theme of the course, which was instructed by a U.S. advisor. The course was adapted from the Basic Public Affairs Specialist - Writer and Public Affairs Qualification Course at the Defense Info School in Fort Meade, Md. It was turned into a 15-day field course to teach the basics of photojournalism and public affairs ops.
"They are the best unit in Iraq's military," the advisor said. "By adding public affairs and photojournalism skills, they can show the Iraqi people what ISOF is doing to bring peace and stability to Iraq. They were able to catch on very quickly and were creative with their stories.In the beginning, some of the training was rough because this is a new subject to them, but that's why we train."
According to the ISOF sgt, the truth builds a trusting relationship between the army and the people. He believes this new skill is a responsibility not to be taken lightly. "Sometimes the people don't know what we are doing in the Army. We can now tell the good things we are doing for the safety and security of our people. We want Iraq to be a safe place."
The ISOF captain, chief of media, agrees with his soldiers and said the days of lying to the public like Saddam Hussein and his regime did are long over. They will use newspapers and the internet to disseminate the truth to the Iraqi people.

Iraq SOF visit children at a village in Baghdad to hand out toys, play soccer and read to the boys and girls. The students of the Iraqi SOF Public Affairs and Photojournalism Course wrote a feature story and took photos of the event as part of their coursework.
(Photo by Iraqi SOF PAO)

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Iraqi Department of Border Enforcement opens

BASRAH - The headquarters for the Dept. of Border Enforcement opened Aug. 4 in Basrah province during a ceremony attended by both Iraqi and British dignitaries.
The British-funded HQ will provide accommodation and administrative facilities for Iraqi border guards stationed in the area. The troops are responsible for the security of the Iraqi border in both Maysan and Basrah provinces and play a vital role in ensuring Iraq's continued progress.
Maj. Gen. Barney White-Spunner, cmdr., MND - South East, stressed that the DBE HQ controlling forces along the border Iraq shares with Iran is important to the long-term security of Iraq. "The past months have seen huge advances in the security and peace of Basrah," said White-Spunner, "But, as the IA and Police consolidate the security of Basrah from within, it is the DBE that will secure it against. This HQ is a fitting and enduring contribution from us to you, and I wish those officers who work in it every success as they protect their country's frontiers."

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Officials Open Water Distribution Site, Fill BWA Trucks for Delivery

By Staff Sgt. Matt Meadows

Hato Hassan, 9th Nissan district council chairman, takes a drink of purified water from a tap at a water distribution site at JSS Al Khansa in eastern Baghdad, Aug. 3.

Photo by Staff Sgt. Matthew Meadows.

FOB LOYALTY — More than 500,000 Iraqi residents have purified water headed to their neighborhoods as Baghdad Water Authority officials, along with Iraqi leaders and leaders from the 4th BCT, 10th Mtn Div, opened a water distribution site at JSS Al Khansa in eastern Baghdad, Aug. 3.
“We are going to double our capacity for the future, and we are going to get over a million people to [receive] distributed water,” said “Sam,” an engineer and bilingual, bicultural advisor working with 4th BCT.
“When I came to this country in 2007, my first dream [was] to give people drinking water because you can provide electricity with generators,” said Sam. “If I give one person drinking water, [then] that is a big bonus.� I’m giving [water to] a million and a half. [For these people], it’s a dream to have drinking water in the desert.”
Sam said he is working on other important projects to serve the people of Baghdad. These projects include installing solar street lights and micro-power generators, which will provide electricity at a cheap price, less than 2,000 dinar per amp each month, in SUJ, Fedaliyah and other neighborhoods.

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IPs kill one Special Groups criminal, wound 2 others in self defense

BAGHDAD - IP reported a drive-by shooting in the Sheikh Umar neighborhood, in the eastern Baghdad district of Rusafa at approx. 12:45 p.m., Aug. 4.
Three Special Groups criminals opened fire on the New Baghdad Police Station from a passing civilian sedan. The vehicle was engaged by the IPs with precision fire and flipped over, resulting in one SG criminal killed and two wounded.

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ISOF detain suspected AQI financier, four others in Diyala

BALAD - Iraqi SOF detained 5 suspected AQI terrorists in Khalis, approximately 13 km north of Baqubah, Aug. 4.
The ISOF conducted the operation pursuant to a Ministry of Interior warrant to detain the cell leader, who is allegedly a financier and intel mgr for AQI, and 4 other members of his cell wanted for IED manufacturing and emplacement.

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MULTI-NATIONAL FORCE-IRAQ
PRESS DESK
BAGHDAD, Iraq

Precision operation detains suspected Samarra AQI leader

BAGHDAD – CF captured 4 wanted men and detained 11 additional suspects during ops in central and northern Iraq August 5, targeting al-Qaeda leaders and their liaisons.
CF conducted a precision op and captured a wanted man near Samarra. The man is believed to oversee attacks in the area and reportedly replaced another AQI suspect who was detained during an op Jul. 22.
CF captured 2 wanted men assessed to be part of the AQI network in Sharqat, south of Mosul. The 2 ops, in Mosul and farther south in Bayji, netted 5 additional suspected terrorists.
In Baghdad, CF captured a wanted man who was reportedly visiting Iraq before departing to conspire with his foreign terrorist facilitation contacts outside the country.� He and an additional suspect were detained in a house that appeared to be set up as a transient location.
CF also targeted members of a car-bombing network in Baghdad and detained a suspected terrorist.
Info from an ope Jul. 31 helped CF target an AQI liaison in Mosul, where they detained 4 suspected terrorists.

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Kids Today

Army 1st Lt. Michael Moore, plt. leader, 3rd Plt, C Co, 1st Bn, 504th Parachute Inf. Regt., walks through a sea of children during a patrol in Rusafa, Baghdad.
Photo by Staff Sgt. Jason Bailey

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Stacked

Army Spc Canales and Sgt. Canada, 3rd Plt., C Co, 1st Bn, 504th Parachute Inf. Regt. provide security during a patrol of Rusafa, Baghdad, Feb. 17.
Photo by Staff Sgt. Jason Bailey

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Diyala Perimeter

IA Soldiers along with the Iraqi NP set up a security perimeter along an undisclosed location to launch Op Benevolent Diyala in the Diyala province, FOB Caldwell, located in Diyala, July 30. The IA and Police are working together, side by side, in order to push any remaining al Qaida members out of Iraq.
Photo by Spc. Opal Vaugh

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Dear Interested Reader,
Progress continues as plans are made for IA to take over authority in southern Baghdad.  A most interesting success story of 10,000 detainees released this year, with only a re-internment rate of less than 1%.  Enjoy a perfect picture of "The Best Medicine."  Terrorists continue to be captured, as more weapons caches are uncovered.
Joanna
_______________________________________

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

Aug. 5, 2008

The Best Medicine

Army Sgt. Thomas Dwyer laughs with Iraqi children while on a patrol in the Sadr City district of Baghdad, July 28.  Dwyer is a MP assigned to the 4th ID's 3rd BCT.
Air Force photo by Tech Sgt. Cohen A. Young

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Briefing discusses increase in IA authority

BAGHDAD - The 17th IA Div. comm. gen. met with the MND - Center comm. gen. in Mahmudiyah, July 31 to discuss IA authority increasing in southern Baghdad.
During the meeting, Iraqi Maj. Gen. Ali briefed Maj. Gen. Michael Oates on plans that would allow the 17th IA Div. to assume control over FOBs currently occupied by 3rd BCT, 101st Abn Div (AASLT).
"We will look to you for whatever assistance you request of us," Oates said.  Ali said the plans set in place will allow for CF to decrease the influence in southern Baghdad and will give more missions to IA troops to counter terrorism. The main mission for his div., Ali said, is to put together a combat unit to attack any remaining terrorist groups and stop them from interfering with the GoI's progress. This will help establish grounds for the GoI to work more openly in the area.
Ali also plans on exercising control as the SoI supervise and secure checkpoints along key roads. He will continue to work with the citizens of Baghdad to cooperate with Iraqi SF and the GoI.
Furthermore, Ali would like to establish reserve components ready to support missions when in need, as well as an extra bn of cmdrs. This will require approval from the Ministry of Defense.
Eventually, the 17th IA Div. will take over 18 bases, most of which are patrol-sized structures. Some of these bases will help support Iraqi units specializing in equipment, maintenance and transportation.  During this process, the Iraqi forces will continue to work with MiTTs improving the capabilities of the IA.

Maj. Gen. Michael Oates talks with Maj. Gen. Ali, during a brief in Mahmudiyah July 31.
(Army photo by Staff Sgt. Michel Sauret)

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10,000 Detainees Released This Year; Re-internment Rate Less Than 1 Percent    

Dr. al-Meshhadany, president of Iraq's Parliament, tells releasees not to give up at the Lion's Dawn ceremony held June 26. The release ceremonies, known as Lion's Dawn, are held monthly as part of a cooperative initiative between the GoI and MNF - Iraq.  Detainees are released when they no longer pose an imperative threat to the security of Iraq.
Photo by Chief Petty Officer Terry L. Rhedin.

BAGHDAD — More than 10,000 detainees have been released from Coalition detention facilities in Iraq this year, since implementation of programs designed to better prepare detainees for reintegration into society and to reduce recidivism.
“A recent innovation is to have a social worker and an Islamic cleric counsel detainees before they go before their first MNF Review Committee (MNFRC), said Rear Adm. Garland Wright, cmdr. of Task Force 134 Detainee Ops in Baghdad. “Also, last February we started having officers from MNC – Iraq’s capturing unit sit on our MNFRC boards.”           
MNFRC Boards were instituted last August as part of several agreements MNF – Iraq has with the GoI regarding detainee ops. After an individual is detained, his or her case is heard by the MNFRC board within six months of being detained.
TF 134 also has instituted a number of religious, educational, and vocational programs since 2007 to enhance its reconciliation programs.  According to Wright, “Engagement services are highly desired by the detainees. Most of the detainees have had a positive experience with the Islamic Discussion Program and the Level 1 education (Grades 1-3). We have witnessed many of the detainees returning from class and sharing notes and thoughts with their compound members.” 
General David H. Petraeus, comm. gen. of MNF-I, noted that “due to changes in the conduct of detainee ops and programs to prepare detainees for reintegration into society, we have not only gone over 10,000 releases, but our re-internment rate is less than 1 percent.”
Coalition detention programs currently hold just under 21,000 detainees, approx. 17,000 at Camp Bucca near Basrah, and approx. 3,000 at Camp Cropper in Baghdad.  CF are currently detaining about 30 a day and releasing 45 a day.

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Multiple Weapons Caches Uncovered

BAGHDAD - Iraqi SF and MND - Baghdad Soldiers continued their efforts to secure the Baghdad area and uncovered multiple weapons caches, Aug. 3.  The caches consisted of  17 60 mm mortar rounds, 2 80 mm mortars with fuses,  a RPG launcher, and 2  81 mm mortar tubes.

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MND-B Soldiers, ISF detain suspected Special Groups criminal

BAGHDAD -  Aug. 3, Soldiers from Co D, 1st Bn, 22nd Inf Regt, currently attached to the 7th Sqdrn, 10th Cav Regt., 1st BCT, 4th ID, detained the suspected criminal while conducting security ops with IP, at approx. 6:15 p.m. in the Abu T'shir community. The suspect is wanted for allegedly committing acts of violence against Iraqi Security and CF.

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IA, Coalition forces find cache with 100 pounds of C-4

CAMP STRIKER - A tip led Iraqi and CF Soldiers to a cache in the Mahmudiyah area, Aug.1.
Iraqi Soldiers and the 1st Plt, Btry B, 3rd Bn, 320th FAR, 3rd BCT, 101st Abn Div (Air AASLT) found the cache approx. 35 km southwest of Baghdad.
The cache included a 100-pound bag of C-4 explosive, 4 wired blocks of C-4, 3 AK-47s, a Glock 19, a DShK with 400 linked rounds, several hundred rounds of various ammo, 5 wired timers, a sniper sight and 3 load-bearing vests.
The IA detained 3 men who had the cache.

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ISOF, Ramadi SWAT capture five suspected terrorists in separate operations

BALAD - Iraqi SF captured 5 suspected terrorists and detained 2 others in ops around Iraq, July 31- Aug. 2.
On Aug. 2 in Mosul, Iraqi SOF arrested 3 suspected members of ISI, a front org. for the foreign-led AQI, on a local warrant. The suspected terrorists are said to be part of a low-level intimidation cell that uses ransom from kidnappings to purchase weapons. The suspects are also said to be involved in assassinations, and the transfer and distribution of oil to other ISI in the area. One other suspect was detained during the operation.
In Mosul, ISOF captured a suspected mid-level AQI emir, July 31. The suspect is reportedly responsible forIED attacks against Iraqi SF and Iraqi citizens from Mosul to Sinjar. He allegedly uses intimidation to instill fear among the local citizens in order to live safely. One other suspect was detained during the operation.
In a separate op July 31, the Ramadi SWAT team captured a suspected terrorist believed to be part of a terrorist cell responsible for killing local citizens.

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SoI, IA, MND-B Soldiers seize caches in Baghdad

BAGHDAD - SoI, IA and MND - Baghdad Soldiers confiscated weapons caches in Baghdad, Aug. 2.
Soldiers with Co B, 52nd Inf Bn, 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID, seized a weapons cache northwest of Baghdad at approx. 8:45 a.m. The cache consisted of 12 artillery rounds, 4 guided missiles, 2 pounds of unknown bulk explosive and various weapon pieces.
At approx. 11:15 a.m., SoI reported a cache in Adhamiyah. Soldiers of the 1st CAB, 68th Armor Regt, 3rd BCT, 4th ID, seized a box containing 3 60 mm mortar rounds.
Two hours later, IA soldiers, along with an MND-B MiTT serving with the 6th IA Div., confiscated a cache in Mansour that consisted of 41 RPG rounds and an undetermined amount of 14mm ammo.

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Dead Reckoning

Rock band "Dead Reckoning," made up of Soldiers from 556th Signal Co and 312th Psychological Ops Co., 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID, play music for fellow Soldiers, July 4, at JSS heik Amir, in the Taji Qada, northwest of Baghdad.
Photo by Pfc. Lyndsey Dransfield

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Come on Through

An IP officer guides an ecstatic woman and her children through security toward the Al Manasir School in Karnabaht, a neighborhood in the Abu Ghraib District of Baghdad, to receive medical treatment for her children during a Cooperative Medical Engagement, July 29.
Photo by Sgt. Whitney Houston

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Dear Interested Reader,
Our compassionate medics are once again bringing medical aid to people in need.  Likewise, our troops along with IA Soldiers are forcing insurgents out of a village near Tikrit.  There are many signs of success in the Balad region.  Group Criminal leaders detained, as well as a suspected AQI, and other insurgents. 
Joanna
_________________________________

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

Aug. 4, 2008

Medics work with IA doctors to provide aid

Capt. Drew Webb, a physician asst. with the 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID, confirms the recommended dosage of medication before giving it to a resident of Hor al Bash, a village northwest of Baghdad, July 31. Medics from the 2nd SBCT, and the IA worked together to assist village members with their medical needs during a combined medical engagement.
(U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Conrad Vazquez)

Spc. Isabel Rodriguez, a supply specialist, holds a child while the child's mother is treated.

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Say Ahhhh!

Army Capt. Damien Barrineau examines an Iraqi girl's throat while providing medical care to the people of Sayid Ghrib, July 27.  Barrineau is assigned to the 101st Abn Div's 2nd Bn, 320th FAR Regt.
Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Micky M. Bazaldua

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Hillah SWAT detains suspected AQI member in Diyala

BALAD - The Hillah SWAT team detained a suspected AQI member Aug.1, in the Diyala province, 87 km northeast of Baghdad.
The suspect is allegedly part of a cell responsible for ethnic violence, kidnapping and IED attacks. Reports indicate AQI, which uses Diyala province as a safe haven, needs to maintain a foothold in the area to remain a prominent force in the Diyala River Valley. 

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ISF detain five suspects in separate operations across central Iraq

BALAD - Aug. 1, Iraqi SOF detained  suspected Special Groups criminal leaders in Qurna, southeast of Baghdad. The 2 suspects allegedly lead one of the most effective Special Groups cells in Qurna.  One is said to be responsible for IED emplacement, assassination and indirect fire attacks on Iraqi and CF in Qurna.  Reports indicate he recently returned from Iran and is seeking to reestablish his power base in Qurna. The other is said to have been directly involved in at least 2 lethal attacks on Iraqi SF.
In a separate op, Hillah SWAT team detained a suspected Special Groups criminal in Kalsu, approx. 65 km south of Baghdad, and 2 others on a Ministry of Interior warrant. The suspects are allegedly members of an IED emplacement cell.

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Power Line

U.S. and IA Soldiers head out during an air assault mission to force insurgents out of the village of Al Fatah Miaya near Tikrit, July 25.  The Soldiers are assigned to Troop G, 2ns Sqdrn., 3rd ACR.Army photo by Sgt. Kyle Richardson

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Conference Room

Leaders from the 1st Bn, 27th Inf. Regt. "Wolfhounds," 2nd Stryker BCT "Warrior," 25th ID, meet with regional sheiks of the northwest Taji sheik council, Taji Qada govt. officials and leaders of the IA, July 26.
Photo by Pfc. John Ahn

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Blackanthem Military News

Signs of Success in Balad area

A "Balls of the Eagle" Soldier accepts a rooster from a young Iraqi near the city of Balad, July 26, 2008. Soldiers from the 2nd Bn, 320th FAR, have seen the Balad area make great strides in terms of security and economic development.
Photo by Sgt. Rick Rzepka

BALAD - The gains can be seen everywhere.  The wry smiles that were once fierce scowls worn on the faces of men and women here are subtle signs of Iraqi success.  Once timid and withdrawn children flock to the sight of Iraqi and U.S. Soldiers in neighborhoods once thought to be lost.  However, Iraqi and CF remain relentless in their pursuit of the enemy here and across Iraq.
Together with Iraqi SF, Soldiers from the 1st BCT, 101st Abn Div, recently conducted Op Balls Pursuit.  The op, which was part of a larger MND-North effort, aimed to disrupt enemy activity in the Jissat and Jalam Deserts, said Sgt. Maj. Edward Estep, Command Sgt Major.  The area, vast and easily accessible, has been used by enemy fighters in the past as a place to reorganize and resupply in order to carry out attacks on the population centers of the Salah ad Din province.
"Op Balls pursuit was intended to deny enemy safe haven, limit enemy freedom of maneuver, and interdict the flow of foreign fighters in the area," said Estep, whose "Balls" Soldiers were joined by elements of the 1st and 2nd Bns of the 327th Inf Regt in the op.  Many residents in the area said that they have not seen a terrorist presence there in months. "The SoI and consent presence of Iraqi and CF has made the area much safer, allowing people to travel to the markets to sell and purchase goods," he said.
Recently, the township of Ad Dujayl has seen a dramatic increase in the flow of goods and services thanks to the security situation.  Residents are enjoying the freedom to buy and sell goods at their leisure. "On any given day the market place is very busy. With the added security the IP have stepped up patrols which make the people feel safe and the local govt reps are starting to make their way to areas once not traveled," said Estep.
As the people of Balad become more comfortable and secure, Soldiers are seeing more wry smiles and eager children everyday.  Sure signs of success.

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Dear Interested Reader,
Major progress as the southern Balad Ruz area of the Diyala province has had security transfered to Iraqi SF.  In the Kharnabat area of west of Baghdad, IA and U.S. medics bring medical aid, while an elementary school in Rashid gets reopened after being refurbished.  IA tracks down AQI fleeing from Diyala, as other criminals are detained or killed, and weapons caches seized.
Joanna
______________________________________________

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

Aug. 3, 2008

MND-N Soldiers transfer security responsibility in Diyala to ISF

DIYALA PROVINCE - A transfer of responsibility from MND - North Soldiers to Iraqi SF was finalized in the southern Balad Ruz area of the Diyala province of Iraq, Aug. 2.
The volatile area of Diyala, where 2 ops are currently being conducted, has seen success with security for the IA, IP and local residents.
The 3rd ACR handed over its security responsibility to Col. Abbas, Balad Ruz police Chief and the 18th Bde, 5th IA Div Cmdr. Staff Brig. Gen. Kadhim to allow the ISF to maintain security in their own townships.
"The Iraqis are ready to take over this area," Faris said. "Our people are ready to come back to their homes and support the Coalition and Iraqi forces."
"It is truly an exciting day," said Maj. Cameron Cantlon, a 3rd ACR sqdrn EO. "There is absolutely no question that
our forces couldn't have done any of this without the help of the Iraqi forces."

Maj. Cameron Cantlon and a linguist go through a map of the Balad Ruz area.
(Army photo by Staff Sgt. Mary Rose Mittlesteadt)

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IA, MND-B Soldiers bring medical aid to village in Iraq

BAGHDAD - In the Kharnabat area west of Baghdad, July 29, IA and 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID medics converted the Al Manasir School into a temporary clinic and treated more than 170 people.
"We are so thankful for the U.S. and the IA for what they are doing, said one patient after being treated by an IA medic. "I have been sick for many days, and they gave me medicine for free that will help me get better."
The IA medics tended to the majority of the patients, while 2nd SBCT, 25th ID. medics treated a few immediate and complex cases. "Today was great," said Staff Sgt Amos Salas, a medic. "There were a lot of people who came and saw the IA working with local personnel.  I believe this is a step in the right direction for the Iraqi people."

Maj. Kurt Kinney, a bn surgeon assists 2 Iraqi medics.
(Army photo by Cpl. Dustin Weidman)

Staff Sgt. Amos Salas hands out small Iraqi flags and stuffed animals to children.

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Elementary school in Rashid reopens after refurbishment

BAGHDAD - The al-Harat Elementary School in the Rashid district of southern Baghdad reopened July 31, after 2 months of refurbishment.  The school will open its new doors to more than 1,000 Iraqi boys and girls from 7-12 years old, and 60 teachers in September.
Among the improvements made to the school were window unit a/cs, interior and exterior paint, new doors, new chalkboards and a generator to supply the school with electricity. "The school looks very good," said Ali, who has served as the school's principal for 25 years. "It is like a new house for the students.  Now that we have a new-looking school, it will allow the students to work harder and better."
The funds for the project came from the GoI, said Lt. Col. Timothy Watson, a 1st BCT, 4th ID bn cmdr. "This is one of the first schools to be refurbished in this area," Watson said. "We hope to work our way through all the schools."
"This school refurbishment is a testament to the level of care for the neighborhood," said Capt. Parsana Deoki, a 1st BCT, 4th ID co cmdr. "My Soldiers have taken the time to ensure work is done correctly and according to the scheduled scope of work."
"With the help of both CF and the District Council, this place has become a school again," said Capt. Yousif Ibrahim, the community SoI leader and neighborhood councilman. "On behalf of our neighborhood, principal and teachers, we give special thanks for giving us the security to make it happen."
With members of the Neighborhood and District Council and 60 teachers on his side, the school principal has plans to add 5 new classrooms with the hope of giving the children the best opportunity to learn.

Capt. Parsana Deoki speaks with local leaders.
(Army photo by Sgt. David Hodge)

An exterior view of the al-Harat Elementary School.

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INPs turn in weapons, MND-B Soldiers detain suspected IED makers

BAGHDAD - In the Rashid district, at approx. 8:30 p.m., Aug.1,  IP reported a weapons cache in the Abu T'shir community of southeastern Baghdad to Soldiers from the 1st BCT, 4th ID.  The NPs brought the cache, which contained 3 RPG launchers, 2 RPG rounds, a machine gun, 50 7.62 mm rounds, a claymore mine, a 60 mm mortar tube with mount and base plate and 2 80 mm mortar tubes, to a JSS in Rashid.
At approx. 1 a.m. Aug. 2, Soldiers from the 1st BCT, 4th ID, detained 2 suspected IED makers in the Saydiyah community of Rashid.

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MND-B Soldiers detain suspected criminal, INPs seize cache in Rashid

BAGHDAD -  Aug. 1, at approx. 1:45 p.m., Soldiers from the 1st BCT 4th ID, detained a suspected criminal in the Jihad community of Rashid and delivered the individual to a JSS for questioning.
At approx. 4:15 p.m., Iraqi NP seized 7 RPGs, 6 RPG propellants, 200 PKC rounds and 50 7.62 mm rounds in the Aamel community.

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Hayy championship soccer tournament underway in Rashid

BAGHDAD - The Rashid Olympic Games are underway in southern Baghdad as 14 teams compete in a local soccer tournament for the chance to become champions.
MND - Baghdad Soldiers played a key role in the event, working as advisors to the local community leaders and, best of all, observing the games, said Capt. Thao Reed, cmdr., HHC, 1st Special Troops Bn, 1st BCT, 4th ID.  Reed said her primary role is to help the Iraqi leaders from the local neighborhood councils with their initial planning and ongoing efforts to create a community program for Iraqis.
Reed said the games provide the Iraqis a sense of normalcy and, in the long term, the people see their local leaders doing something good for the community. "Through sports, they are also building a loyalty base with the kids - building pride and respect within the communities," Reed said.

Hashem Mahmood, the Deputy District Chairman met with Capt. Thao Reed to promote the Rashid Olympics.
(Army photo by Staff Sgt. Brent Williams)

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IA tracks down AQI fleeing from Diyala

TIKRIT - IA Soldiers operating in the Salah ad-Din province during Op Eagle Pursuit killed 3 AQI fighters as another detonated his suicide vest, killing himself, July 31.
Op Eagle Pursuit is in direct support of Op Iron Pursuit being carried out by MND - North Soldiers in the volatile Diyala Province, which began a few days ago. The IA Soldiers also detained 9 AQI members during their initial stages of the op that has them pushing toward the Uzaym River Valley attempting to kill or capture AQI members fleeing from Diyala into Salah ad-Din in order to escape advancing Iraqi Security and CF.
 "This op is significant in that it signals a step forward for the IA's ability to conduct self-sustained and long-term unilateral ops in the Salah ad-Din province," said Capt. James Hodgson, ISF liaison for the 1st BCT, 101st Abn Div. "The IA has shown marked improvement in recent months in its ability to gather intel, disrupt enemy activity and gain the trust and confidence of the Iraqi people. The initial stage of this op is simply a tribute to their continuous efforts."

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Dear Interested Reader,
The Al Anbar Medical Conference is a first for the province.  The new Basrah regional courthouse will open soon, and is expected to service more than 2 million residents.  Teachers Union reopens in Ramadi to help better educate students, and a place to assist the educators.  The detainee work program builds pride and teaches skills that will better enable the detainee to be productive.  More AQI and other criminals detained and weapons caches seized.
Joanna
_________________________________

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

Aug. 1, 2008

Al Anbar Medical Conference promotes continued education

CAMP RAMADI, Iraq - Nearly 100 doctors and medical professionals attended the 2008 Al Anbar Medical Conference July 28-31. 
The conference addressed several needs within the Iraq health profession including continued education, more physicians and more
nurses. It included lectures by two doctors, one neurologist and one neurosurgeon from the U.S. 
A team of military personnel and U.S. State Dept. reps spent several months coordinating the details of the conference with Al Anbar Dir. Gen. (DG) of Health, Dr. al Salih, and physicians from around the Al Anbar province.
"We've helped set up this conference to address the need for continued education in the health industry of Al Anbar," said Col. Maryann Ante-Amburgey of Task Force Ramadi.  Amburgey is one of several Task Force Ramadi members supporting the Dept. of State's ePRT 2 - Ramadi.  The ePRTs assist the local govts in building their capacity to govern more effectively and deliver essential services.
Mr. Derwent "Buck" Daniels, the Dep. Health Attache for the U.S. State Dept., the conference was a first for the Al Anbar province.
Daniels said a lack of doctors and nurses is the most pressing issue the Iraq healthcare system faces.  Daniels said in addition to continued training, it is hoped the conference will attract more doctors to the region and more women to the profession of nursing. 
According to Dr. Heson A. Solin, the conference brought hope of future health education opportunities.  "This wouldn't have been possible a year ago," Solin said. "I would like to see this continue with even more cooperation with American and European hospitals."

Dr. Michael Carey, Chief of Neurosurgery at the Manhattan, NY, VA Hospital, and Dr. Hisham, an Iraqi neurosurgeon, review patient X-rays before conducting surgery to remove a brain tumor, July 30.
(Navy photo by Senior Chief Petty Officer Gary Boucher)

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ISF captures three suspected terrorists in separate operations in Iraq

BALAD, Iraq -  July 30, Mosul SWAT team captured a suspected mid-level leader of the ISI, a front org. for the AQI, in Namrood, approx. 42 km southeast of Mosul. The suspect, said to have started his own terrorist organization in 2003, reportedly facilitates the movement of foreign fighters from Syria and Saudi Arabia into Iraq. Reports indicate the suspected terrorist is also linked to 2 fighters who spent several years in Syria to acquire knowledge of chemicals and chemical mortar fabrication. The suspect is also said to have ties with the local IP, which allow him some freedom of movement.
Fallujah SWAT captured a suspected member of an AQI weapons smuggling cell during an op in Fallujah. The suspect is believed to facilitate small arms, rockets and IED-building materials.
In an area approx. 125 km north of Baghdad, the Iraqi NP Emergency Action Platoon captured a suspected AQI emir in order to disrupt terrorist activities in the Tikrit and Jalaam Desert areas. The suspect is believed to build and emplace IEDs.  Reports indicate the suspect is linked to an AQI financial support and equipment facilitation network between Syria and Iraq.  The IP unit also detained another man during the op.

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MND-B Soldiers, Iraqi physicians aid citizens

Staff Sgt. Jason Torres, 2nd BCT, 101st Abn Div (AASLT), places gauze bandages over an Iraqi woman's burns during a medical op in Baghdad's Iraqi Family Village, July 26.
(U.S. Army photo by Sgt. James Hunter)

Capt. Jerry Braverman, 2nd BCT, and an Iraqi physician talk with an Iraqi woman about her ailments.

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ISF detain suspected AQI financier, 7 others in Diyala province

BALAD -  IA Soldiers detained a suspected AQI financier in as-Sadiyah, approx. 116 km northeast of Baghdad, July 30. The suspect is believed to be an AQI financier and facilitator in the Lake Hamrin region.  Reports indicate local business owners gave the suspect large sums of protection money each month to ensure their immunity from criminal attacks. The money is said to fund terrorist ops. The man is also said to be involved in attacks against Iraqi Security and CF. Three other suspected terrorists were detained during the op. 
In another op, Iraqi SOF detained 4 suspected AQI cell members in Tahwila, approx. 55 km northwest of Baghdad, July 29. One of the detainees is believed to be part of a cell responsible for coordinating the movement of weapons and people between the Diyala and Udaim River Valleys.
Reports indicate many of the AQI leaders are fleeing Diyala province as a result of recent ISF ops in the area.

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New Courthouse to Open in Basrah

By A. Al Bahrani

Basrah Regional Courthouse is one of the biggest GRS projects and is expected to serve more than two million residents in Basrah Province.
USACE photo by A. Al Bahrani.

BASRAH — Officials in Basrah will soon open a new 11,000-square-meter, two-story courthouse and witness protection facility here providing visual proof that the rule of law is once again a fundamental pillar of this nation.
“It’s a magnificent structure built by local Iraqis who tell me they’re very proud to be part of this effort, said Keith Addams, Gulf Region Div. As I drive around to different job sites in Basrah and I see the dome of the new courthouse off in the distance, I can’t help but think of its impressive monumental impact on the people here.  “As the rule of law reduces the power of selfish men, the economical and agricultural capacities of Iraq will blossom,” continued Addams. “I honestly believe that all this, and so much more, is possible, through creating, enforcing and obeying fair and just law.”
The courthouse project is approximately 94 percent complete.  Laith Sammad, chief of the Basrah Supreme Judiciary Council, said the Iraqi Ministry of Justice is very satisfied. “It’s a critical step in helping make Iraq a safer place for all who want peace and justice,” he said.  
The Gulf Region Div, which has renovated 3 other courthouses in Basrah Province, is in the process of constructing another courthouse in the Shatt Al-Arab area.

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Teachers Union Reopens in Ramadi     

By Lance Cpl. Casey Jones

Ramadi Mayor Obaid (center) cuts the ribbon signaling the grand reopening of the Ramadi teacher's union building, July 21, 2008. The teacher's union building will provide a place for the region's education instructors to come together, discuss ideas, and increase their effectiveness while teaching students. Photo by Lance Cpl. Casey Jones.

RAMADI — “This building will help the teachers in Ramadi become even better at their jobs,” said Abdullah Shaib, the teacher’s union manager. “It’s a place where all of the teachers can come for special activities and meetings.” Shaib was a key proponent in reopening the building, and believes it is a necessary component to improving education in Ramadi. “This building will put the teachers in the perfect position to be creative in their ways of teaching the students and become better, more advanced instructors,” Shaib said.

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MNF - IRAQ
TF 134
BAGHDAD, Iraq

Detainee Work Program Building Pride 

CAMP CROPPER – Army National Guard MP teach detainees practical skills they can use to build a better life for themselves, their families and Iraq.  “When I first arrived, one of the lieutenants that worked here told me about the program—Detainee Work Program.  So, I spoke to my cmdr., and, based on my experience, I was selected to work on the Detainee Work Program,” said Master Sgt. Randall W. Morrow, 251st MP Co, Tennessee Army National Guard.
The detainees receive plenty of classroom instruction learning how to build projects from wood prior to testing their practical knowledge.  This classroom time is focused on how to operate the tools safely, especially the power tools. Additionally, they discuss how to manipulate wood as well as identifying anyone who has previous experience working with these tools.
Morrow has been a general contractor for more than 20 years and has owned his own contracting business since 1989. Based on his experience, his role is to ensure that all projects are structurally sound and built to the U.S. building code requirements.  “I am glad to pass on some of the knowledge that I have from my civilian experience to the detainees, as well as to the soldiers.  Hopefully, this will give them some basic skills to build upon so that when they are released they can contribute to the future of Iraq,” said Morrow.
The latest project was to build an 18-foot gazebo.  The inspiration for building the gazebo came to Staff Sgt. Charles Monroe after seeing a smaller one the detainees had built. “When I saw the large cement pad within the family visitation area I thought that would be a great place for a gazebo,” said Monroe, 220th MP Co, Colorado Army National Guard.  “I also thought that when detainees had their family visitation time they could show off their new skills and take pride in building this structure,” said Monroe. “It’s actually been quite rewarding to be in my position, said Monroe.  I get to see the final product; I have tangible evidence of their learning. You can see the pride in their faces because they made it –tables, benches, gazebo--, and now they get to use it. They also get to show off their new skills to their families.”
Monroe serves as the NCO in charge of the Detainee Work Program, which includes maintaining 2 four-hour shifts with approximately 18 soldiers who oversee approx. 20 detainees per shift.
“Most of the time, the detainees will ask to work every day to accomplish the project.  It makes you feel good that they want to complete the project. But, more than that, it is really great to see the pride they take in their projects,” said Morrow.

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