TROOP SCOOP

Dear Interested Reader,
Our focus story is about the important, difficult, and dedicated job of the Mitt.  Tribal leaders are hosted by the 287th Sust. Bde. for a cultural study at Ziggurat of Ur.  Al Anbar police receive 21st Century forensics capability.  Iraqi SF and CF leaders conduct election rehearsal at COP Meade.  Criminals are detained and munition caches seized.  In Afghanistan, CF target Taliban in Zabul, while also targeting an IED cell in Zabol Province.
Joanna
_______________________________

Jan. 31, 2009

Blackanthem Military News

MiTT team advises, helps 9th IA Div. along road to confidence

By Sgt. Whitney Houston

1st Lt. Edan, cmdr. of the Detainee Holding Area Anex (DHAA), is searched by his colleague, 1st Lt. Hussein, while SSgt. Heather Roark observes the appropriate techniques of searching Iraqi women at the DHAA, which is located at Al Rasheed IA base in Baghdad, Jan. 23.  Roark serves with the 9th IA Div. MiTT, attached to 4th ID.

BAGHDAD - Going back to Revolutionary War times, a foreign military influence assisted the US in helping an unpolished military become one of the greatest in world history.  Friedrich von Steuben, a Prussian-German officer who served as the first Inspector General of the Continental Army, taught military doctrine and discipline to a young military, providing a proficiency and sense of professionalism, which they needed to eventually gain their independence from Great Britain.
In contemporary times, one can see history mimicking the noble role of von Steuben through the MiTT, a conglomeration of Soldiers with many different specialties with the end goal of advising, instilling professionalism and ensuring continued success of the present-day IA.
"Our main job as a MiTT team is to professionalize the IA. We have officers and NCOs from a wide variety of military occupational specialties.  I have a logistics officer, an intel officer, an aviator, EOD, intel analysts ... and the list goes on," said Lt. Col. Thomas Seagrist, who serves as cmdr. of the 9th IA Division MiTT. "These guys are the leaders of their respective elements, and the advisory role is to help their Iraqi counterparts see that there's more than one way to skin a cat and open their eyes to other options."
The word transition speaks volumes to the nature of the MiTT team's broad mission and also denotes an element of time and genuine concern that are essential to build a base of success.  "The first thing you have to do as a MiTT team is establish your rapport with the people you work with, which is easier said than done," Seagrist said.
"You have to build a relationship with them by sipping chai tea, and having normal conversations with them - even if the conversations have nothing to do with the job. They have to trust you, and you have to trust them, and that's definitely not an easy thing to do. You are not their friend - although friendships do occur - but there's also a working relationship that has to exist."
With rapport well established and nowhere to move but forward, the 9th IA Div. MiTT team is continually faced with deeply ingrained cultural obstacles, which require patience and perseverance to overcome.  "Many officers serving in today's IA also served under Saddam's regime, which is a totally different mindset. They grew up and prospered under a dictator who called all the shots," Seagrist said. "They served with pride for their army and their country, and in an army in a new democratic society, we are trying to help them serve the people and a constitution, rather than serving a man."  To overcome this lingering stigma of serving in a dictator's army, Seagrist and his MiTT team have suggested and reiterated the importance of strengthening the IA NCO corps to distribute authority and provide a much-needed "backbone" for the army.
"One of the big things that myself and other members of my team are doing is not only trying to get an NCO academy going but legitimizing the NCO corps. In the IA, a lot of the Soldiers don't wear their rank. They don't feel like it means anything because they're not afforded the authority that an American NCO has," said MSgt. Ian Hutchinson, who serves as the senior enlisted leader of 9th IA Div. MiTT team.  "We're trying to show them they can do more than just bring the boss chai - that they can take initiative and make things happen and make NCOs in the IA just as proud as NCOs in the American Army."
Although an arduous and time-consuming task, the 9th IA Div. MiTT team continues to advise and aid Iraqi Soldiers and leaders to better perform their duties with the hope that their mentorship will have as lasting an effect on the IA as von Steuben's efforts had on the U.S. military so many years ago.

1st Lt. Jordan Clark, who serves as an explosive ordnance disposal expert with the 9th IA Div MiTT, attached to 4th ID, removes an explosive substance from the end of an artillery round at Al Rasheed IA base.  Capt. Seth Norman, also serves with the 9th IA Div. MiTT team, and an Iraqi Soldier watch as Clark does his job.

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

Tribal leaders hosted by Sustainers at Ziggurat of Ur

Col. Robert Schmitt with his senior staff and local Iraqi Tribal leaders rest in front of Abraham's house.
(Army photos by Maj. Tim Ohlhaver)

COB ADDER - Dhi Qar provincial leaders came to the Ziggurat of Ur to meet with 287th Sust Bde, Cmdr.
Col. Robert Schmitt, and his staff where they hosted a cultural study, Jan. 24.
The opportunity allowed both Iraqi and U.S. Army leaders to extend their relationship with each other, as well as learn about the historical site. The ziggurat provided a fitting backdrop for people of different backgrounds to find common ground, as the Ziggurat of Ur is located within COB Adder, where the 287th Sust. Bde. is based.
Before the cultural briefings, Al Batha City Councilman,  Al Tayieh addressed Schmitt, and his dep. cmdr., Col. Barry Taylor and the brigade surgeon Col. Muhammad Khan.  He recounted the ancient history of Ur. He described how the ziggurat played an important role in Sumerian civilization, and the significance of Abraham's house in religious history.  He closed with comments about cultural advances in Iraq over the last several years.
Al Tayieh explained the need for a continued partnership. "There are 2 hands, one is the hand that helps and the other is the hand of the enemy," he said. "I want to thank you for our friendship with U.S. and CF.  It is evidenced by all of our cooperative projects and the establishing of a new Iraq."
Schmitt responded in agreement to the words of Al Tayieh.  "We need to continue to build and refine the relationship that has been established," he said. "It is our desire to see Iraq as a totally free and independent democratic state."
The Ur curator led the Al Teyieh, Shaykh Shershab of the Al Badur Tribe, and Shaykh Hachem of the Al Ghizi Tribe, and Schmitt and his staff through the ziggurat, a monumental foundation for the "Temple of the Moon God."  He showed the group another temple's foundation upon which still stood the world's oldest existing archway and the palace of King Shulgi during whose reign the ziggurat was built. The group also viewed burial grounds of the ancient Sumerian kings and common people, Abraham's house, the first known museum, and an immense drainage pit with ancient drainage pipes and evidence of two major floods.
For Al Tayieh, the visit to the House of Abraham had significance to the leaders' meeting that day. "We are assembled on what is considered hallowed common ground by at least three major religions," he said.

Al Tayieh (far right) discusses the history of Ziggurat of Ur with Col. Robert Schmitt and his command staff.

The Ur curator describes the sites of the Ziggurat of Ur compound to local Iraqi Tribal leaders and leaders from the 287th Sust Bde.

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ISF, MND-B leaders conduct election rehearsal at COP Meade

Lt. Col. Michael Mammay (left), cmdr, TF 4th Bn, along with Iraqi Staff Col. Ramadan, commander; Col. Pat White, cmdr., 2nd BCT, 1st Armored Div; and Command Sgt Maj. Michael Eyer, also from 2nd BCT, observe a rock drill rehearsal security plan.
(U.S. Army photo by Spc. Jamie Vernon)

BAGHDAD - In support of the Security Agreement implementation, Iraqi SF and their MND - Baghdad partners conducted a combined rehearsal of their security plan for the upcoming Provincial Elections at COP Meade in the Mahmudiyah Qada, Jan. 25.
Iraqi leaders and TF 4th Bn, 27th FAR, 2nd BCT, 1st Armored Div, participated in the combined arms
rehearsal. The election is scheduled for Jan. 31, with 14,300 candidates running for 440 seats to fill the various provincial councils. It will mark the first nationwide election held in Iraq since 2005.
"We are asking the CF for air support, especially in medivacs, should we need them; however, the Coalition will have very little involvement in this op," said Staff Col. Atia, cmdr. "We have experience from the 2005 elections. The units are trained and prepared."
"At this point, we're trying to enable, not to direct the Iraqis in how to accomplish their mission. The complexity of the display may seem a little elaborate, but it's all just a tool we're providing to our allies to aid them in securing their own democratic future," said Capt. Nicholas Doerr, TF 4th Bn.

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Al Anbar police receive 21st century forensics capability

CAMP RAMADI - For years, the IP had to make do without the scientific tools most police forces around the world rely upon to solve crimes - but no longer.  CF recently provided IP with 21st century forensics equipment to furnish the newly-opened Al Anbar Forensics Center in order to support the overall goal of enhancing IP capability in conducting criminal investigations and prosecutions.
Iraqis were using equipment dating back to the 1950s, and many of their investigations failed due to lack of evidence, according to Col. el-Latif, chief of forensics for Al Anbar provincial IP. "We are in 2009. Things have changed, and now thanks to the U.S., our new equipment will help to stop crimes," el-Latif continued. "We are now able to squeeze crime into a corner ... control and defeat it," said el-Latif.
The equipment donated consisted of advanced forensics gear ranging from fuming chambers to a crime scope. "This is a big component for the Iraqis to solve Iraqi crimes," said Lt. Col. Robert T. Stanford, the I Marine Expeditionary Force dir. of the Joint Prosecution and Exploitation Center.  "As Maj. Gen. John F. Kelly says, 'close in the last 10 yards,' and this equipment will help them accomplish that goal," he added, using an American football analogy meaning to work hard until the mission is complete.
Major Gen. Kelly, comm. gen. of MNF-West and the I Marine Expeditionary Force, attended the ribbon cutting ceremony and presented Maj. Gen. Muhammed, al Anbar provincial chief of IP, with an early 20th century replica revolver to show his respect for their friendship.  "Along with this revolver, I present an Eagle, Globe and Anchor, the symbol of the Marines, which I wouldn't give to anyone I didn't have the deepest respect for."
Muhammed and Kelly have been working together for the past year building a vital relationship between Iraqi Police and CF.  "Maj. Gen. Kelly is known by us as the American cmdr. who walked in all the districts of the province," said Muhammed.  "With all due respect to other Marine cmdrs., Marines have all the right in the world to be very proud of such a cmdr."
Kelly's involvement with IP has helped CF move to an over watch roll. A forensics lab will give Iraqi SF the upper hand to fighting crime.  "A gift like this will remain with us forever," said el-Latif.  "Most importantly, this level of friendship between 2 countries will remain forever."

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ISF patrols seize weapons, find UXO

BAGHDAD - Iraqi SF partnered with MND - Baghdad Soldiers seized weapons and found a bomb and unexploded ordnance (UXO) in Baghdad's Rashid district, Jan. 28.
At approx. 1 a.m., IA Soldiers partnered with Soldiers from Co B, 1st Bn, 22nd Inf Regt, 1st BCT, 4th ID, confiscated 15 AK-47 assault rifles during a neighborhood clearance op in the Saydiyah community.
At approx. 8 a.m., IP working with Soldiers from Co B, 1st Bn, 505th PIR, attached to 1st BCT, 4th ID, discovered a bomb made of a 2.75 inch rocket and a 60 mm mortar round, while conducting ops in the Masafee community.
Iraqi NP officers conducting a combined patrol with Soldiers from Troop C, 7th Sqdrn, 10th Cav Regt, 1st BCT, 4th ID, discovered a RPG that had been fired, but the round did not explode, in the Abu T'shir community, at approx. 8:45 a.m.
IP officers partnered with HHC, 1st Bn., 505th PIR, attached to 1st BCT, 4th ID, discovered a sticky bomb in the Jazeera community at approx. 10:45 a.m.
At approx. 1 p.m., IA Soldiers partnered with Co D, 1st Bn., 505th PIR, discovered an 81mm white phosphorus mortar round while conducting ops in the Arab Jabour community.

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ISF, MND-B Soldiers detain 2 suspects in Baghdad

BAGHDAD -  At approx. 11 p.m., Iraqi NP officers conducting a combined op with Soldiers from HHC, 1st Bn, 22nd Inf Regt, 1st BCT, 4th ID, detained a suspected criminal in the Jihad community, wanted for alleged car bomb activity.
Meanwhile, Iraqi NP officers conducting a combined patrol with Soldiers from HHT, 7th Sqdrn, 10th Cav Regt, 1st BCT, 4th ID, captured a wanted criminal in the Zubaida community at approx. 11 p.m, who was wanted for allegedly building bombs.

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ISF detain suspected criminals in Ghazaliyah

BAGHDAD - Iraqi SF arrested 2 wanted criminals during ops Jan. 28, in the Ghazaliyah neighborhood of northwest Baghdad, after receiving info from a detained criminal who had knowledge of recent attacks. These criminals are suspected of conducting resettlement attacks in the Ghazaliyah neighborhood, using hand grenades.  One of the suspected criminals was in possession of a hand grenade at the time of his arrest. 

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U.S. Forces - Afghanistan

Coalition Forces target Taliban in Zabul       

KABUL, Afghanistan - CF detained a militant during an op to disrupt the Taliban's network in Zabul province, Jan. 27.
In Jaldak District, approx. 65 km northeast of Kandahar City, CF detained a Taliban cmdr. wanted for his ties to the roadside bombing network along Highway one, and the recent bridge attack in Zabul province on Dec. 31.
Two women and 5 children were present and CF ensured their safety during the op.

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U.S. Forces - Afghanistan

Coalition Forces target IED cell in Zabol Province       

KABUL, Afghanistan - CF killed 4 armed militants during ops to disrupt the Taliban network in Zabol (Zabul) Province, Jan. 28.
In Tarnak Wa Jaldak District, approx. 90 km northeast of Kandahar City, CF targeted a known Taliban leader and explosives expert.  Upon receiving small-arms fire, CF returned fire and killed all 4 armed militants.
During the op, 3 women and 8 children were protected.  A search of the compound revealed multiple AK-47s and other weapons.

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Dear Interested Reader,
Students from St. Andrews Priory School in Honolulu make rag dolls for Iraqi children.  Iraqi SF are among the first of early voters and show purple fingers, while others are making final security coordinations.  Iraqi businessmen held a grand opening for the new Oasis Market at COB Adder.  In Afghanistan, school children receive clothing and supplies in Bagram; and a most interesting story on the National Military Academy, as it hosts its first graduation ceremony.
Joanna
_____________________________

Jan. 30, 2009

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

IP, MND-B Soldiers bring supplies, joy to students

Two girls receive donated rag dolls.
(Army photos by Spc. Christopher Long)

JSS HOR AL BOSH - At a primary school Halabsa, northwest of Baghdad, Jan. 25, IP partnered with Soldiers from Co B, 52nd Inf Regt, attached to 2nd Sqdrn, 14th Cav Regt, 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID, to bring much needed school supplies to Al-Arwa Ibna al-Ward school.
"Working with the IP is always a pleasure, and the local leaders in the area do a great job of helping us identify where we can help out," said 1st Lt. Ben Flores, plt leader, Co. B.  "This school is very close to Sheik Khalid, and conducting this op jointly with the Iraqi SF helped bring smiles to the faces of everyone involved."
The group gave out pens, pencils, backpacks and toys.  Along with the school supplies, the children were presented dolls made by students at the St. Andrews Priory School in Honolulu, much to the delight of those students who received them. The dolls have a historical as well as sentimental significance for the 2nd SBCT Soldiers, and especially for Lt. Col. Thomas Mackey, cmdr., 2nd Sqdn.  The man responsible for starting the program, 1st Lt. Nainoa Hoe, lost his life in Mosul on Jan. 22, 2005. Hoe, then one of Mackey's plt leaders with 3rd Bn, 21st Inf. Reg., 1st SBCT, 25th ID, had hoped that the dolls would help bring happiness to the children of the war-torn country.  "The delivery of these precious dolls to young girls here in Iraq always brings smiles," Mackey said. "The dolls brighten up the lives of these children, who are the future here.  Nainoa was definitely onto something."
This year marks the second year in which the 2nd Sqdn. has conducted an op in which the rag dolls from the St. Andrews Priory School were handed out to the children of Iraq. Last year, students from the Falahat area received the gifts made with aloha.  "It has been our honor to deliver these dolls to needy children in Iraq, and we thank everyone responsible," Mackey said. "Mr. Allen Hoe, Nainoa's father, played a huge role in connecting the dolls to our unit and, of course, to the volunteers at Saint Andrews, who made the dolls and gave of their time and effort for such a worthy cause - Thank you."

Specialist Derek Hannah, rifleman, Co B, 52nd Inf Regt, attached to 2nd Sqdrn, hands a rag doll to a young girl.

Sgt Adam Brown, infantryman, Co B,  stacks pencils.

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Iraqi Security Forces: Ensuring the vote counts

Col. Philip Battaglia, 4th BCT, 1st Cav Div cmdr., greets bde cmdrs. from the 10th IA Div.
(Army photo by Pfc. Terence Ewings)

CAMP VICTORY - During the 2005 provincial Iraqi elections, voters had their fingers stained with election ink to prevent them from voting twice.  Some held their fingers up in pride as they took part in democracy; others hid their faces from cameras, afraid of becoming victims of sectarian violence.
IA Soldiers, IP and other SF will vote a few days ahead of the rest of the population.  On election day, they will stand guard to ensure those with stained fingers can vote without fear.
"I was here in 2005 when the first elections were held," said Maj. Troy Wayman an ISF coordinator with the 4th BCT, 1st Cav Div. "Everyone in the ISF was proud of their right to vote and expressed it by showing their painted finger to us over and over.  Everyone was jubilant. This year, that same enthusiasm is prevalent."
"We have no hand whatsoever in the elections, said Maj. Ryan Foxworth, the ops advisor for the 10th IA Div., and member of the 4th BCT, 1st Cav. Div. "As enablers, we see their plans. We see their needs...  We'll be standing by if they need us, but I don't foresee them needing us at all."  Foxworth has been working with the IA, IP and reps from PRTs on election security plans.  He said this election was one of the first ops he's seen IA and IP come together to serve the populace.  Foxworth said the ISF are prepared for every possible attack, and they don't lack the confidence to do their job.
Foxworth has also seen a great relationship and trust grow between the Iraqi people and their Army. The people's confidence in their SF is warranted considering the amount of planning ISF have conducted the last few months. The security working groups have met 6 times to review election issues and other concerns. Once the election is behind them, these workgroups are where CF will have been the most involved. 
"The Americans have been very good to us and we accept their help," said Chief Warrant Officer Ibraheem, Staff Maj. Gen. dep.  "We look forward to the day when we need not their help, but only their friendship."

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Oasis Market opens doors in Dhi Qar

Lt. Col. Timothy Norton cuts the ribbon at the opening of the Oasis Market.
(Army photo by Spc. Michael Turner)

COB ADDER - Iraqi businessmen held a grand opening for the new Oasis Market, Jan. 23 as part of a program initiative to spark the local economy in Dhi Qar Province.
The market opening is part of the Iraqi-Based Industrial Zone program, which started in Oct. 2008 to help local businesses develop within the security of a military installation.  Both military and civilian customers can purchase some of the latest electronic equipment at the market, to include televisions, DVDs and other entertainment products.
Yassir Ahmed, a salesperson working at the Oasis Market, said the I-BIZ program is an easy and successful way to run a small business catering to military personnel and civilian contractors. "The contract that we have with the Americans saves us money," said Yassir, who previously leased land from an Iraqi contractor. "We are now able to use the extra money to provide a better quality of product for the Soldiers that shop here."
The I-BIZ program also provides a means to directly impact the local economy through income, employment opportunities and training.  Lt. Col. Timothy Norton, cmdr., 4th Special Troops Bn, 4th BCT, 1st Cav Div, attended the ceremony to show his support of the Iraqi contractors.  "It helps the brigade to help these Iraqi businessmen gain economic stability," Norton explained.  "Simple things like this will lead to the Iraqis providing sustainment for this base long after we have gone home."

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Iraqi Security Forces vote on special voting day

BAGHDAD -

An IP officer shows off his ink-stained finger after leaving a polling station, Jan. 28 in the New Baghdad district of eastern Baghdad. The GoI held a special election period to allow Iraqi SF to cast their vote in the Provincial Elections.
(Army photos by Staff Sgt. Alex Licea)

An IP officer gives a "peace" sign displaying his ink-stained finger.

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IP, MND-B Soldiers have plan for upcoming elections

ISTAQLAL -

SSgt. Jesus Robles, squad leader, HHC, 1st Bn, 27th Inf Regt, 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID, attached to 3rd BCT, 4th ID goes over a map, Jan. 23 with his NP counterpart during a combined patrol in the Istaqlal Qada, which was focused at securing this northeast Baghdad neighborhood prior to the upcoming provincial elections.
(Army photos by Sgt. Brad Willeford)

Capt. Brian Sweigart, cmdr., HHC, 1st Battalion, discusses the best plan of action for searching a Istaqlal Qada neighborhood with an Iraqi officer.

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Soldiers deliver security barriers to Washash election site 

An Iraqi contractor guides an Alaska barrier into place in front of an election site.
(Army photo by Spc. Dustin Roberts)

BAGHDAD - Soldiers from the 299th BSB, 2nd HBCT, 1st Inf Div helped enhance security in an effort to ensure voters in northwest Baghdad will be safe on election day.
The 299th BSB Soldiers worked with their fellow MND-B Soldiers from 4th Sqdrn, 10th Cav Regt, attached to the 2nd HBCT, 1st ID, to deliver 200 concrete barriers and a 30-foot watch tower to the ballot holding facility and voting site in the Washash neighborhood of the Mansour district of northwest Baghdad, Jan. 24-25.
The barriers will provide additional protection for the Iraqi SF as its members continue to grow in their capabilities in securing the Iraqi population.  "1st Lt. Ryan Snedegar, 4th Sqdn., 10th Cav. Regt. said,  "We helped the ISF with the upgrades, but this security was planned and controlled by the ISF."  The ISF took the lead in preparing for the big day while CF assisted in planning.
"We would like to see as many voters out as possible," said Snedegar. "The citizens need to feel comfortable to do what they know is right. I think they want to vote; they know they need to vote."  The combined effort to emplace the barriers required a large element to provide the necessary security.  The Soldiers also had the cover of darkness to conceal them as they worked, said Sgt. 1st Class David Spiker, convoy cmdr., Co B, 299th BSB.

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Salah ad-Din officials make final security coordinations for upcoming provincial elections

TIKRIT - 

Col. Walter Piatt, cmdr., 3rd BCT, 25th ID, speaks with Abdullah Jabouri, the dep. gov. of Salah ad-Din Province at an elections security meeting chaired by Abdullah in Tikrit, Jan. 27.  Reps from the Iraqi High Electoral Commission, the IP, IA, the U.S. Army, the U.S. State Dept, and the mayors from the major towns and cities in the province attended the meeting to make final security coordination for the upcoming Jan. 31 provincial elections.
(Army photos by Maj. Cathy Wilkinson)

Mr. Richard Bell (right), Salah ad-Din PRT leader speaks to Dr. Abdel-Hamid, the Salah ad-Din rep of the Iraqi High Electoral Commission, at an elections security conference.

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U.S. Forces - Afghanistan

Afghan school children receive clothing and supplies in Bagram       

KABUL, Afghanistan – Soldiers from Combined Joint Special Ops TF-Afghanistan distributed more than 300 backpacks filled with clothes, shoes, school supplies and hygiene items to children at the Gulam Ali boys and girls high school in Bagram, Afghanistan, Jan. 22.
The items were donated by Americans from all over the U.S. through a program called Operation Backpack and shipped to Soldiers in Afghanistan to distribute to schoolchildren, most of whom live in extreme poverty. 
A webpage asking for donations was posted online with a packing list and mailing address to ship the backpacks.  Contributor’s were asked to fill each bag with a full set of clothing, tennis shoes, winter jacket, basic school supplies and hygiene items including toothpaste, a toothbrush and soap.  The bags were labeled with the gender and age of the child who would receive it to make distribution easier.  The donation drive kicked off Oct. 1st and in just six weeks more than 300 filled backpacks were sent to Afghanistan.
The program coordinator is a Green Beret officer currently stationed in Afghanistan.  He said he came up with the idea, but it was a collaborative effort among him and several others in the unit. “To help alleviate human suffering, and demonstrate American goodwill to the children of Afghanistan,’ the officer said, was one of his motivations behind Operation Backpack.  Winning the hearts and minds of the Afghan people, he added, was another inspiration. “We want the Afghan people to see that the American people care about them.”
The officer’s tour in Afghanistan has come to an end and he said he will not be able to continue with the drive but urges others to give. “There are plenty of organizations out there if you want to help,” he said. The new unit has already committed to ongoing work with the school during its Afghanistan tour.

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U.S. Forces - Afghanistan

National Military Academy of Afghanistan hosts first graduation ceremony       

KABUL, Afghanistan – National Military Academy of Afghanistan cadets participated in a graduation ceremony, Jan. 25, in Kabul. The 84 cadets who participated in the ceremony are members of the academy’s first class of graduates. More than 1,500 people attended the graduation, to include Afghan govt officials and Coalition officials.
Five years ago, the Ministry of Defense and the US Military Academy (USMA), West Point, N.Y., developed a concept plan for the National Military Academy (NMAA) of Afghanistan in an effort to produce more efficient, educated leaders within the Afghan National Army (ANA).
The keynote speaker was President Hamid Karzai. Others that participated in the ceremony included, Minister  Wardak, Afghan Minister of Defense, General Khan, ANA Chief of the Gen. Staff; and Gen. David D. McKiernan, U.S. Forces Afghanistan Comm. Gen.
President Karzai explained that today’s cadets are the heartbeat of the entire nation and all are equal from all provinces throughout Afghanistan.  “I am very proud to be a part of this ceremony, which is a very important and vital step toward a stable and self-sufficient country,” said Karzai. “Today you all are graduating because of the hope of the mothers who have lost their fathers, brothers and husbands while defending this country.”
Prepared under the authority of the Office of Military Cooperation-Afghanistan and the Afghan Ministry of Defense, a NMAA Concept Plan was signed in November 2003 by reps from Afghanistan, the U.S. and Turkey. Since the beginning of the Academy, West Point has sent staff and faculty to NMAA, and recently, the U.S. AF Academy in Colorado Springs, Colo. has also contributed to this effort.
The NMAA is an extensive 4-year university level institution. The NMAA, often referred to as the crown jewel of the ANA, is designed to educate, train, and inspire the cadet bde so each graduate is a competent, courageous and honorable officer.
The concept plan also included a dynamic layout of ethnic distribution throughout the corps of cadets, and the staff and faculty to represent ethnicities from 33 of 34 provinces.  And although the first graduating class consisted of all males, NMAA officials ensure female integration is soon to come.
Upon graduation each cadet, or officer in training, will have completed one of 4 majors to include: civil engineering, computer science, general engineering, sciences and legal studies, and will be commissioned as a 2nd lt, beginning their career according to a 10-year service agreement.  During that time, each officer will serve in either infantry, artillery, armor, aviation, logistics or communication branches of the ANA.  Leadership and Management, Military History and English majors will be available for future cadets.
Minister Wardak reiterated the importance of today’s graduation by stating that the graduates of NMAA will be recognized all around the world. “The ANA has written and will continue to write golden pages in the history of this country by serving and dying for this country,” said Wardak.
One graduate said this was the most defining moment in his life, and he will continue to pursue an even better education and more difficult training to ensure his soldiers are well taken care of.

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Dear Interested Reader,
Adhamiyah Sports Complex reopens with gifts from USA Boxing.  Security is being checked and double checked for upcoming elections.  IA partners with the 3rd ESC for ammo ops.  Tribal leaders host the 287th Sust. Bde. cmdrs.  Iraqi SF sharpen skills at machine gun range, observed by members of Team Weasel.  Village culvert connects Sunni Arabs and Turkmen.  In Afghanistan, CF disrupts terrorist networks in eastern and southern Afghan, and in Methar Lam District, Laghman.
Joanna
_______________________

Jan. 29, 2009

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

Adhamiyah Sports Complex reopens with gifts from USA Boxing

2-time Olympian Farouk Changchun (left) and the Iraqi boxers he trains, pose with gear donated by USA Boxing.
(Army photos by Sgt. Zach Mott)

ADHAMIYAH - As a 2-time Olympian shouted instructions from the side, 2 boxers sparred for the crowd of onlookers to celebrate the reopening of the Adhamiyah Sports Complex in northeast Baghdad, Jan. 27.
Following a facelift, the Adhamiyah Sports Complex now boasts a remodeled boxing gym, an indoor basketball court/soccer field, administration office and a FIFA-regulation 5-on-5 Astroturf soccer field. "Adhamiyah as a whole has been waiting for this complex to reopen for a while," said Capt. William Murphy, Civil Affairs team leader for Co A, 401st CAB, which is currently attached to the 3rd BCT, 4th ID.
The Adhamiyah Sports Complex was once the training grounds for many former Iraqi Olympians.  One of those former national champions now heads the boxing program there - Farouk Changchun.  As his young protégées put on a demonstration for the crowd, Changchun gushed over the new gear donated by USA Boxing. The donation included head gear, gloves, trunks and shirts.  "We are happy to get any help in sports material and supplies from USA Boxing, because it spreads the feeling of humanity everywhere," Changchun said. "A lot of people think that boxers have very harsh feelings and a very hard heart, but it's not true, boxers have a very kind heart.  I'm hoping that there are future Olympians in this room."
As the boxing demonstration concluded, there was another important event at the complex.  A soccer match between the predominantly Shia district of Kadhamiyah and the Sunni dominated Adhamiyah district was being played on the new Astroturf field.  "That's the greatest accomplishment for this entire project," Murphy said.

 

Leaders from Baghdad's Adhamiyah and Col. John Hort (center), cut the ceremonial ribbon.

Olympian Farouk Changchun (left) and Capt. William Murphy, pose with gear donated by USA Boxing.

A member of the Adhamiyah soccer team passes the ball to his teammate during a friendly game.

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SF, MND-B leaders meet to plan security for the Mada'in Poll Stations

Col. Pat White, cmdr., 2nd BCT, listens to a security brief.
(Army photo by Pfc. Evan Loyd)

BAGHDAD - Iraqi SF from the IA, National and local IP, conducted a full dress rehearsal of its security plan for the Mada'in Qada, during a regional security meeting Jan. 27 at the 9th IA Div HQ in Al Rasheed.  "This centralized meeting helps coordinate the various components that will be working together to ensure the safety of the Iraqi citizens on election day," said Iraqi Staff Lt. Gen. Ganbar, cmdr. of Iraqi Baghdad Ops.
Though the Soldiers of the 2nd BCT, 1st Armored Div will have only a support role in the actual election day ops, the Iron Bde has helped by providing valuable insight into the planning of the security around the polling stations, and by providing equipment like metal detectors and cement T-walls to facilitate the safety of the Iraqi citizen while they vote.
"We have more T-walls for you to pick up at COP Sallie," said Col. Pat White, cmdr., 2nd BCT.  "We're here to help anyway we can."

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Iraqi Army partners with Sustainers for ammunition operations

(Right) Brig. Gen. Kathem and (left) Col. Curt Higdon, the G-3 ops officer for the 3rd ESC, talk about the IA's ammo process, with the help of an interpreter.
(Army photos by Spc. Amanda D. Tucker)

Bayji National Ammo Depot (BNAD) - Jan. 26, leaders met to discuss the IA's capacity to issue, store, receive, secure and account for munitions.  Discussions centered on processes and procedures to conduct munitions support, as well as developing planning processes for replenishment of stocks through the foreign military sales process, forecasting future requirements, and how the IA and 3rd ESC may partner together in the future.
One of the IA leaders in attendance, Brig. Gen Kathem, dir. of ammo for the IA, said, "The visit was very successful and beneficial for me," citing the productive meeting between IA and 3rd ESC leaders.
The depot has a history of partnered success.  Since working with the logistics military advisor team the depot has had no security issues.  "We still think they need to do some work to define what their policies and their procedures are. They need to get those policies and procedures published, so that there is clear understanding and communication across all levels of how logistics will work," said Lt. Col. Billy Hall, chief of Iraqi SF transition team, 3rd ESC.
Brig. Gen. Ibrahim, BNAD installation cmdr. and Katham led a tour of the depot, including facilities where serviceable ammo is stored and unserviceable ammo is destroyed. During the time spent together, the leaders from both the IA and the 3rd ESC discussed transportation, disposal, accountability, security and safety in dealing with the ammo.  "I want to thank all the CF for their support ... and for any support they plan to provide in the future," said Kathem.

Brig. Gen. Kathem provided a special meal for Col. Curt Higdon, and other visiting key leaders from the 3rd ESC.

IA leaders speak with CF to develop the IA procedures and policies on how to safely handle and resupply ammo, while identifying training partnership opportunities.

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Tribal Leaders host Sustainment Commanders

Lt. Col. Clint Moyer enjoys an after-dinner conversation with Al Batha District Councilman Mohammed Tayieh and their host, Shaykh Al-Marshad.
(Army photos by Master Sgt. Carl Mar)

COB ADDER - Shaykh Al-Marshad of the Al Ghizi tribe invited Col. Robert Schmitt, 287th Sust Bde cmdr., and Lt. Col. David Whaling, 157th CSSB, to a formal luncheon at his Al Nasiriyah compound on Jan. 21.   It was the first formal meeting between the 2 parties and Al-Marshad used the opportunity to ask for CF partnership on civil affairs projects in his area of Dhi Qar province.
Other attendees were the head of Ur city council, Fahad Raysan; Al Batha District Councilman Tayieh;  287th Sust. Bde. Command Sgt. Maj. Timothy Newton; 157th CSSB Command Sgt. Maj. Orlando Santiago, and Lt. Col. Clint Moyer, Chief of 287th Sust. Bde. Civilian Military Ops.
One of the top priorities was a new pump station house. "The present structure is old and beyond repair. The pump and generator are exposed to the weather, and they stop working often.  We would like your help in building a new house which would cover the equipment," Al-Marshad said.  According to Schmitt the pump system "is very important to the 287th Sust. Bde., as it provides water to the CF located on Camp Adder."
Councilmen Raysan and Tayieh thanked the Sustainers for their continued CMO support of several schools in their district, but identified several more which have not been helped before.  "These schools need supplies for the students, computers for the classrooms and repairs to the buildings. Perhaps you can help them too," asked Raysan.
 "There's an orphanage located in my district, not far from my town. It has 40 to 45 children who need help with everything -- school supplies, clothes, pay for teachers," Tayieh said, even as everyone was already nodding in agreement.
Al-Marshad showed his appreciation to the Sustainers by presenting each one with a "kaffiyeh" (scarf) and "agal" (plaited cord) -- the traditional male Iraqi headdress -- and asked that they might favor him to wear it at their next meeting.  "It was a great dinner, a great meeting," said Schmitt.  "We came away with a lot of positive opportunities to assist the Iraqis in the future."

Guests of Shaykh Al-Marshad enjoy the main course of lamb and rice.

Shaykh Al-Marshad (center, wearing blue headdress) of the Al Ghizi Tribe poses for a group photograph with Dhi Qar Provincial reps, and leaders from the 287th Sust Bde.

287th Sust Bde cmdr. Col. Robert Schmitt admires the gifts of an "agal" (plaited cord) and "kaffiyeh" (scarf) given to him by Shaykh Al-Marshad.

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ISF sharpen skills at machine gun range

Capt. Travis Pendelton, a member of Team Weasel, observes an Iraqi Soldier during a machine gun qualification exercise.
(Army photos by Petty Officer 2nd Class Robert Whelan)

BAGHDAD - Iraqi Soldiers headed to the range with support from members of Team Weasel, MND - Baghdad's MITT Team 10599, to conduct a machine gun qualification exercise at the Muthana Airfield Range, Jan. 23 in the Karkh district of northwest Baghdad.
"One of the great things about the range was that it was planned by an Iraqi officer, and run largely by Iraqi NCOs," said Capt. Travis Pendelton, Team Weasel, MITT 10599. "It was good to get the IA Soldiers out to the range for some training."
Once the event was underway the MITT Soldiers began the exercise, serving as observers and controllers for the range.  Before long the Iraqi Soldiers showed they could handle the responsibilities and the MITT Soldiers gladly let them take control.  "At the beginning of the exercise MITT members were overseeing the training from the vehicles," said Maj. James Mullin, team chief, MITT 10599. "Once we were convinced that the IA NCO's knew how to do the job, they conducted this aspect of the training with the MITT members observing from the ground."
As the IA takes the security lead throughout their country, one of the keys to success will be the development of a strong NCO corps.  The range qualification was a prime opportunity for NCO's to prove they are ready for the added responsibility, and that's exactly what they did.  "This was a great opportunity for the NCO's to become more involved with the training and to show their proficiency and demonstrate some leadership as well," said Mullin. "They enjoyed the range and the opportunity to fire off rounds."
For the Soldiers of 'Team Weasel' the event proved that even though they don't have the easiest job in the world, they do have a very important and rewarding job.  "Helping the IA train its Soldiers can be a long and occasionally frustrating process," said Pendelton. "But days like this make it all worthwhile."

Sgt. 1st Class Calvin Clark, assigned to Team Weasel, explains the course of fire. The Iraqi Soldiers were conducting a weapons qualification exercise which is required once a year to ensure they maintain proficiency on their weapon systems.

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Village culvert connects Sunni Arabs, Turkmen

TIKRIT – For many years, the village of Bushariyah has been divided by nature, with Sunni Arabs on one side of the river and Turkmen families on the other.  Bushariyah locals held an opening ceremony for a newly built culvert in Kirkuk province, Jan. 26.
“The culvert now connects the Sunni Arabs and the Turkmen who live within the village,” said Capt. Marlen Ramirez, team leader, Det. 1, B Co, 490th CAB.  A culvert is like a built-up dam that allows water to pass through while allowing locals to drive above it, said Maj. Dexter Caston, cmdr., Det. 1.
Local Iraqi SF came up with the idea for the project, which was funded by the Iraqi Cmdrs. Emergency Relief Program, and built in 90 days. “The Iraqi SF will now be able to conduct their missions easily without having to go all the way around from one side of the village to the other,” Ramirez said.
The culvert also allows residents on both sides of the river to start building a stronger relationship. For many years, the Sunni Arabs and the Turkmen villagers have been in conflict, Ramirez said. “The connection between the 2 ethnicities in Bushariyah Village is now there, so it is up to them to make it work.”
“Overall, I feel great about the project,” said Caston. “It looked very good upon completion and the people seem to really enjoy it.”

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U.S. Forces - Afghanistan

CF disrupt terrorist networks in eastern and southern Afghanistan       

KABUL, Afghanistan  - Jan. 19, In Kapisa, CF killed Taliban cmdr. Mullah Patang and 18 other militants during an op to disrupt the Taliban’s terrorist network in the Tagab Valley, located approx. 50 km north of Kabul City.   Patang was responsible for numerous roadside bomb and direct attacks against innocent civilians, GIRoA officials and CF throughout the region.  After neutralizing the threat, CF continued the op, searching the targeted buildings, seizing more than 20 AK-47s, multiple hand grenades, and bandoliers of full magazines.   8 suspected militants were also detained as a result of the op.
In Kandahar, CF killed a second Taliban cmdr., Mullah Akund, and another armed militant while targeting the Taliban’s roadside bombing network.  The op in Panjawi District, approx 25 km southeast of Kandahar City, eliminated the Taliban cmdr. access to plan, coordinate and facilitate roadside bombings throughout the province.  A search of the compound revealed a 105mm artillery round that had the explosives removed, presumably to construct roadside bombs.
In Khost, ANA and CF netted the targeted Haqqani militant during a successful combined op.  The detained militant is believed to be in direct contact with senior Haqqani leaders outside of Afghanistan, coordinating activities aimed at destabilizing the Republic of Afghanistan and harming innocent civilians and CF.
In Zabul province, CF continued to apply pressure to the Taliban’s roadside bombing network, killing one armed militant and detaining 2 suspected militants. 
The op in Jaldak District, approx 65 km northeast of Kandahar, targeted a Taliban militant believed to carry out roadside bombings and attacks against CF along Highway One.  During the op, one armed militant attempted to engage the force, and was killed. 

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U.S. Forces - Afghanistan

Coalition forces continue to disrupt terrorist network in Laghman       

KABUL, Afghanistan –  Jan. 23, the op in Methar Lam District, approx 60 km northeast of Kabul City, targeted a Taliban cmdr. believed to conduct terrorist activities throughout the Kabul, Laghman and Kapisa provinces.  As CF approached the wanted militant’s compound, several groups of armed militants exited their homes and began maneuvering on the force.  Armed with AK-47s and RPGs, the militants engaged CF from multiple directions.  CF returned fire engaging the militants with small-arms fire, killing 9 militants and, where it presented no danger to innocent civilians, precision close-air support, killing 4 militants.
After neutralizing the threat presented by the armed militants, CF continued the op and searched multiple compounds.  During the search, the force was again engaged by armed militants inside the buildings.  CF engaged the militants with small-arms fire, and killed 2 militants.  During the search, CF identified one of the 13 militants killed in the initial firefight as a female.  She was killed while maneuvering on CF and was carrying a RPG.  During the search of the compounds, CF discovered 10 AK-47s, 4 RPGs, multiple RPG rounds, a hand grenade, bandoliers of ammo, and other military equipment.

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Dear Interested Reader,
Civilian journalist Chris Jackson receives Navy's second highest honor.  ISF and CF assist Iraqi mortar victim.  A busy day for the 22nd Inf. Regt., seizing weapons and detaining criminals.  Iraqi SF work hard to professionalize their IA, IP and NP, while the Emergency Response Brigade expands protection for all of Iraq.  Basrah's Tactical Response Team prepares to secure waterways for upcoming elections.  Op. Goodwill aids Iraqis in Maysan.  490 Policewomen graduate from Baghdad Police College.  In Afghanistan, Panjshir province benefits from poppy-free status.
Joanna
_________________________

Jan. 28, 2009

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

Civilian journalist receives Navy's second highest honor

Marine Maj. Gen. Paul Lefebvre, awards cameraman Chris Jackson.
(Photos by Staff Sgt. Joy Pariante)

BAGHDAD - On Aug. 3, 2003, while traveling the dangerous roads of Afghanistan, a cameraman working for FOX News risked his life to save a U.S. Marine from a vehicle engulfed in flames.   
While embedded with 2nd Plt, Weapons Co, 1st Bn, 6th Marines, cameraman Chris Jackson's vehicle hit 50 pounds of homemade explosives.  The humvee occupants escaped the flaming vehicle, all but the vehicle cmdr., Sgt. Courtney Rauch.  The blast severely injured Rauch and knocked him unconscious. Jackson, despite having received shrapnel wounds himself, rushed back to the vehicle, pulled Rauch out and carried him to safety. "Without Chris' quick thinking and heroic act, I would have lost my life that day," Rauch said.  "Chris forgot about being a reporter that day, and became one of our bothers and acted as one of us.  Chris went above and beyond his duty."
Jackson, who now works for CNN/Turner Broadcasting, was presented the Dept of the Navy Distinguished Public Service Award, the second highest award given to civilians by the Navy, for his actions.  Jackson received the award during a stop in Iraq en route to India.  An audience of appreciative Marines was on hand during the ceremony.
Marine Maj. Gen. Paul Lefebvre, dep comm. gen., MNC - Iraq, has a son in the very same company with which Jackson was traveling.  Lefebvre, who presented the award on behalf of the Navy, asked his son if all the wonderful things being said about Jackson were true.  "I asked him 'is this the real thing' and he said 'yeah dad, this guy's a hero'," Lefebvre said.  "This was not an everyday action. It came from somewhere deep inside, and shows such a level of courage and commitment."
When told in front of the crowd of digital cammies why he was invited to Al Faw Palace, Jackson blushed.  "It goes to show that Marines have a good sense of humor," he said.  "I was told I was coming here for a briefing." 
Jackson, who has been out with servicemembers in combat zones since 2001, said he didn't think twice about risking his own life to save someone else's.  "I wasn't thinking.  I saw there was trouble, and I didn't even think about grabbing a camera and filming it," Jackson said.  "I just did what anyone else would do if someone was in trouble."

Marine Maj. Gen. Lefebvre and Chris Jackson with award certificate.

Camp Victory Marines pose with Chris Jackson.

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ISF, Coalition Forces assist Iraqi mortar victim  

BAGHDAD - IA medics with the assistance of Soldiers from Co A, 2nd Bn, 505th PIR, 3rd BCT, 82nd Abn Div, provided care to an Iraqi civilian Jan. 26, after a Special Groups criminal mortar attack in New Baghdad district.
1st Lt. Eliot Proctor, a spokesman for 2nd Bn., 505th PIR praised the hard work of both units involved in this effort.  "It was a great effort by both the ISF and CF who took part in caring for this woman," he said. "We all pulled together and helped her in every way we could in order to provide her with care."
The victim was taken to a nearby JSS where she was stabilized, and then airlifted to a local hospital for further
treatment.

Iraqi SF and Paratroopers provided medical aid to an Iraqi woman.

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ISF patrols seize weapons, detain 3 criminals in Rashid

BAGHDAD -  Iraqi NP partnered with Soldiers from Co D, 1st Bn, 22nd Inf Regt, 1st BCT, 4th ID, discovered a cache consisting of 60 rounds of .50-cal. ammo in an abandoned house in the Risalah community during a neighborhood clearance op at approx. 1 p.m., Jan. 26.
At approx. 3:30 p.m., IA soldiers partnered with Soldiers from Co B, 1st Bn., detained a suspected criminal, based on a Bayaa investigative judge's warrant, at a checkpoint in the Saydiyah community.
Iraqi NP officers partnered with Soldiers from Co. D, 1st Bn., arrested a suspected criminal, based on a Baghdad Ops Center warrant, at a house in the Risalah community at approx. 4 p.m.
At approx. 9 p.m., IA soldiers partnered with Soldiers from Co. B, 1st Bn., confiscated 15 AK-47 assault rifles during a neighborhood clearance op in the Saydiyah.
Iraqi NP partnered with Soldiers from Company A, 1st Bn., discovered a light anti-tank 66 mm rocket in the Aamel community, during a neighborhood clearance op at approx. 9:45 p.m. ,Jan. 26.
At approx. midnight Jan. 27, IA soldiers partnered with Soldiers from Co. B, 1st Bn., detained a suspected criminal, based on a BOC's warrant at a house in the Saydiyah community.

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ISF work toward professionalizing their own

CAMP VICTORY - The Iraqi SF continue to make tremendous progress.  Provinces throughout MND - Center have seen a significant reduction in violence, a direct result of the success of IP.
The IP in the MND-C area of ops are currently manned at 96%, roughly 110,000, and are continually growing.  The IP and every branch of the ISF, which includes the IP, IA and NP, are critical elements in the transition to Iraqi independence. Efforts to train and professionalize the ISF are now lead internally, and they have in place multiple programs to establish and build legitimate, thriving forces into the future.
The IP have 2 education initiatives to professionalize their forces. First is the Baghdad Police College which trains the IP Officer Corps. Those graduating from the 3-year course leave with a baccalaureate degree, and enter service in the IP as a 2nd lt.  The second initiative is the IP Academy consisting of Basic Recruit Training, as well as specialized training on evidence collection, police station mgt. and community-oriented policing.  Currently, 5 provinces in MND - Center have permanent IP academies, and the Ministry of Interior plans to build 3 new academies in the remaining provinces.  Each is run by a dean, typically an IP colonel.  They are also in the process of developing forensic labs, canine units and major crime units, with assistance from CF. 
IA Soldiers attend BRT, and those becoming NCOs attend an NCO academy.  They train at the unit level and at joint training centers for war-fighter exercises, similar to the U.S. Joint Readiness Training Center, in addition to their basic training courses.
The IP are now adhering to the GoI-developed warrant system and are transitioning toward an evidence-based versus confessions-based judicial system, a significant development for the nation's law and order.
Also within the ISF is the NP. These units specialize in urban SWAT missions and are often equipped with armored vehicles.  Unlike the IP, they do not have the authority to detain Iraqi citizens. They are often used as a reinforcing SF to the IP and are commonly employed at large gatherings, religious events and other occasions that require heightened security.
Progress is continuous and country-wide; most importantly, the population is coming to appreciate and trust the ISF.  Citizens now turn to the IP with tips, and to settle disputes instead of sheikhs as they did in the past, and IA units conduct more and more independent missions protecting the people of Iraq.

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Iraqi ERB to expand protection for all of Iraq

BAGHDAD - More than 120 new Emergency Response Brigade (ERB) officers stood shoulder to shoulder and recited the oath of allegiance to Iraq, Jan. 22 during the selection course graduation ceremony.
The ERB, which operates under the authority of the Ministry of Interior, consists of a specially trained and equipped force to complete the most demanding security missions in the country, said Brig. Gen. Jawad, ERB cmdr.  "Our mission will lead Iraq to a more secure and stable country."
The capability of the force is instilled through dawn-to-dusk training, conducted by the Iraqi-led instructors, said an ERB official.  The new graduates were led through 5 weeks of specialized training courses, which included small-arms proficiency; close-quarters battle techniques hand-to-hand combat; urban movement; reactive sniper fire and continuous physical fitness.  The rigorous training thinned the class size by nearly half, but that's what it's expected to do, an ERB official said.  "We want to make sure that the training prepares the officers for real-world missions so they're pushed to their limits," said an advisor to the ERB.
The ERB will continue to grow in size and capability in the coming months.  Officials expect the next training class to begin in March.

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Basrah team prepares to secure waterways for elections

BASRAH - In preparation for the upcoming elections, the Tactical Response Team (TRT) of Basrah's SWAT unit conducted recon ops on the Shatt al-Arab waterway in mid-January.
The ops proved the TRT's ability to  expand their patrol capability and fully access the waterways in Basrah's vicinity. "With this increase in access, we have a significant capability to choke off extremist activity during the Jan. 31 elections, a time in which criminal attacks are predicted to intensify," said a SWAT advisor.
Historically, the waterway lacked law enforcement presence, thereby allowing a free flow of lethal aid to criminals and terrorists in Iraq.  Established in December, Basrah TRT enhances Iraqi SF' capability through maritime and urban-strike ops, increasing ISF's ability to limit criminal activity.
"At first, locals did not know why we were on the river and what we were capable of doing for them," said an Iraqi TRT member. "Now, they line the shores and wave as we go by. "They are also more interactive and provide us with info that can help us better secure Basrah's waterway," the TRT member said.

TRT members of Basrah SWAT conduct a recent recon op on the Shatt al-Arab river in Basrah. TRT and CF gained valuable atmospherics, and confirmed full access to the river and marshes in the vicinity of Basrah.

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Operation Goodwill Aids Iraqis in Maysan       

By Pfc. Todd Rogers

An IP from the Maysan province distributes first aid kits to the families of Abu Rummanah, during a combined humanitarian op with Soldiers of the 2nd Bn, 7th Cav Regt, 4th BCT, 1st Cav. Div, in Amarah Jan. 23.

FOB GARRY OWEN —  “We have a lot of things to coordinate between us and the coalition,” said Maj. Gen. Ati, from Maysan, during a recent conference at COB Adder. “We share info and intel, and it’s working."
The 2nd Battalion, 7th Cav Regt Soldiers pulled security, while the IP distributed humanitarian aid to those in need. “Working with the IP, and going door to door with them to see families, is both rewarding to me and the IP’s,” said 2nd Lt. Timothy Hayes, a fire support officer. “That’s the reason we are here, to help the citizens of Iraq.”
After visiting several dozen homes in the areas of Abu Romanah, the IP traveled to the northern part of Amarah. They visited farms and villages near the Tigris River to distribute food, toys and medical supplies to the Iraqis.
“This is a sign of changing times for the war here in Iraq,” said Sgt. Robert Andrews. “It’s now all about the hearts and minds of the Iraqi people.”

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

490 Policewomen Graduate from Baghdad Police College     

BAGHDAD – The Baghdad Police College graduated 490 new Iraqi Policewomen at a ceremony here Jan. 26.  The women voluntarily stepped forward to serve and protect Iraq, its people and its Constitution.  Among their first duties, the new graduates will serve front-line roles providing security for the Jan. 31 election.
“This is something I have waited for…this day.  I am very happy to be a policewoman now, and to serve our people,” said Sasha, one of the graduates of the largest female class ever to graduate from BPC.
After the ceremony, the new policewomen celebrated by chanting slogans and proudly thrusting their arms in the air.  The smiles on their faces told the story of their accomplishments.  “We feel proud and happy that we are bringing new opportunity to Iraqi women today, and more women will follow us,” said Aseel, another new policewoman.   Another graduate said she joined the police to serve with her husband, also a policeman.
Iraqi Minister of Interior Jawad Bolani congratulated the new graduates for “taking another step towards rebuilding Iraqi security.”  He said they represent another significant accomplishment for the Ministry of Interior in continuing to further improve security in Iraq. “These women are now sharing duties with the policemen to bring a new day of prosperity to Iraq,” said Bolani.  “You are now qualified to defend Iraq, to protect our liberties, Iraqi laws, Constitution and human dignity.”
Bolani also thanked CF and trainers at Baghdad Police College for their support in making this course a success.
IP Col. Hashim, Dir. of Training at the Police Qualification Center, said the women received training in checkpoint security, police ops, and Iraqi law and are qualified to serve in the same capacity as the men.  Hashim went on to say the women will serve throughout the nation with IP, Border Police and other directorates as required.
U.S. Army Col. Larry Saunders, senior advisor for the Baghdad Police College Transition Team, said the graduation clearly speaks to Minister Bolani’s commitment to distribute opportunity equally among genders in Iraq.  He said the women completed the same basic recruit training course as male Shurta with instruction in ethics, human rights, police ops and firearms training. “They graduated in time to serve in important roles during the election security process, thus combining 2 very important symbols of freedom: equal opportunity and the right to elect your political leaders,” said Saunders.  The BPC-TT provides vital US and Coalition assistance and training to the BPC and the IP forces, thereby supporting Iraq in its efforts to maintain security and stability in Iraq.
U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Mike Milano, Dep. Comm. Gen. of Multi-National Security Transition Command Iraq’s Directorate of Interior Affairs, which provides training support to the Interior Ministry, said, “This first, all-female graduating class shows the wonderful progress the Ministry of Interior has made as it works to increase diversity in the IP.”
Many other dignitaries attended the ceremony, including the Minister of Women’s Affairs, Nawal Mageed al Samarai, and Parliament member Sammera al Mossawi, head of the Council of Reps’ committee on Women’s Rights and Family.  Al Samarai thanked the Interior Ministry for their new plan of providing more female police.    She congratulated the graduates and urged them to be honest and to respect human rights and women’s rights.
“By your service, you will create more opportunity for more women to serve their homeland and help bring security to our country,” said al Samarai.

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Monastery

Army Capt. Rick Brunson (left), chaplain for 215th BSB, shows the inside of an ancient chapel in the Saint Elijah Monastery to soldiers during a tour there at FOB Marez in Mosul, Jan. 21, 2009.
(Photo by Staff Sgt. JoAnn Makinano)

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Football Fan

An Iraqi child watches as Iraqi and U.S. Soldiers conduct a market cordon and search on Jan. 20, 2009 in Baghdad.
(Photo by Sgt. Edwin Bridges)

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The Future Smiles

Iraqi school children welcome visitors at a school opening in Ghazaliya, Jan. 21.
(Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Robert J. Whelan)

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Headquarters United States Forces Afghanistan 

Panjshiris benefit from poppy-free status     

KABUL, Afghanistan – More than 100 Afghans attended the Good Performance Initiative ribbon-cutting ceremony, signifying the official handover of agriculture machinery and irrigation system projects at governor’s compound in Bazarak, Panjshir province, approx. 100 km from Kabul, Jan. 13.
Last year, General Khodaidad, Minister of Counternarcotics, awarded Provincial Gov. Bahej and the people of Panjshir $1.4 million for being a poppy-free province.  The award money was invested in 5 development projects identified by members of the Panjshir Provincial Development Council, district committee, village shuras and the provincial gov. The projects included the construction of irrigation systems, structures and water supplies, provision of agro-machinery, and the establishment of greenhouses and fruit orchards.
“About 95% of the Panjshir population is currently practicing subsistence agriculture,” said Greg Schlenz, Panjshir PRT’s U.S. Dept of Agriculture agricultural advisor. “The overall objective is to provide long-term livelihood for farmers, so they can earn more from crops in their fields."
Members of the Panjshir PRT spoke with pride about the accomplishments of the govt and people of Panjshir.
“Our core objective is to implement projects which will improve stability, with the intent that more traditional forms of private investment can resume,” said Lt. Col. Mark Stratton, Panjshir PRT cmdr. “Panjshir is a model province and sets the example and standard for other provinces in Afghanistan to follow.”

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Dear Interested Reader,
For the first time, IA escorts CF convoy.  Logistic leaders from the IA and CF gather to discuss achievements and issues.  The Kadhamiyah District Council celebrates the opening of their new meeting hall.  Airport Road checkpoints are renovated and manned by Iraqi NP.  Weapons and munitions are confiscated.  In Afghanistan, Nuristan province PRT assists Zirat with growth and development, while CF further disrupts the Haqqani terrorist network in Khost province.
Joanna
__________________________

Jan. 27, 2009

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

Iraqi Army Escorts Coalition Force Convoy    

 

Iraqi and U.S. Soldiers depart COB Adder in southern Iraq. The Iraqi troops now provide convoy security for the 27th BSB Soldiers.

COB ADDER — IA Soldiers for the first time escorted the 27th BSB, 4th BCT, 1st Cav Div., logistics convoy to remote outposts in southern Iraq, Jan. 18.
“The mission was executed in a very professional manner,” said Maj. David Jaillite, the 27th BSB EO. “Our efforts will play a vital role in their sustainment ops for some time to come.”  The convoy marked the first of its kind for the Iraqi and American units and demonstrates the high level of confidence the Coalition has in the Iraqi SF.
“This is another significant step for the 10th IA,” said Maj. Chad Carroll, 4th BCT public affairs officer. “Our logistics patrols now follow the IA lead for movement to various locations.”  The 27th BSB has partnered with the 10th MTR for approx. 7 months while the Long Knife Bde has been deployed to southern Iraq.

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Logistic commanders gather to discuss achievements, issues

CAMP TAJI - Logistics leaders from the IA and CF came together to discuss achievements, important issues and problems within the logistic community at Camp Taji, northwest of Baghdad, Jan. 24.
The meeting was the sixth in which the IA cmdrs. along with logistics officers from the 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID,  and logistics officers from MND - Baghdad, got together to solve important issues.
"This is important because we get to share our achievements and come up with solutions to our problems," said Iraqi Col. Sadi, cmdr. 
Getting the cmdrs. together for regular meetings was not easy.  "When we first arrived, these cmdrs. didn't talk to each other," said Capt. Bryan Williams, Co A, 225th BSB, 2nd SBCT cmdr. "They said they didn't see the value in it."  Now as time has passed, Williams said the cmdrs. are excited about the meeting, and now host them with little help from the 225th BSB.  "They are no longer relying on the Americans," Williams said, in speaking about the IA cmdr's knowledge and capabilities to host an official function.
Sadi said the meetings provide a valuable exchange of info, which is a relationship they didn't have before.  "Even though they didn't have much communication, they always find a way to provide for their Soldiers," Williams said. "Not one time did I see them not be able to accomplish the task."  Williams said he hopes these meetings will provide an avenue for the IA bns to better be able to get supplies out to the soldiers.

Lt. Col. Mark Collins (left), cmdr. of the 225th BSB, and IA Col. Sadi, listen to briefings.
(Army photos by Sgt. 1st Class Christina Bhatti)

Iraqi Logistics officers gathered with logistics officers from 2nd Stryker BCT, to discuss achievements and issues.

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Kadhamiyah district council celebrates hall opening

BAGHDAD - The Kadhamiyah District Advisory Council in northwest Baghdad has something to rejoice about. With the help of the ePRT, 2nd HBCT, 1st ID, and the U.S. State Dept, the Kadhamiyah DAC celebrated the grand opening of its new meeting hall, Jan. 24.
"The table in their older room only sat 26. The new one has 37 spaces and the chairman, the dep. chairman, and the administrative person who take the minutes sit at the head table," said Col. Louis Fazekas, governance leader, ePRT, 2nd HBCT. "A lot of times, they invite guests so more than 30 show up to the meetings. There is also room at the head table, which is where they like to seat guests of honor."  Fazekas, along with Dr. Fadhil, civil engineer, ePRT, 2nd HBCT, took charge of the project to ensure it was built according to U.S. standards.
The installation of microphones for each table and speaker boxes, which were designed to ensure the meetings are audible for those attending the events, were among the numerous additions to the facility. Other improvements included the installation of new a/cs to keep the facility cool in the summer and new heaters for the cool winter months. "In the old room, unless you were sitting by the 2 small, coiled heaters, you didn't feel much heat," said Fazekas. "During the summer months it got awfully hot in there because the 2 a/cs they had did not work very well."
Perhaps the most appreciated update, however, is the additional space.  "Many times it was difficult to sit everyone and many had to stand," said Muslim Saleh, the Kadhamiyah DAC chairman. "We are very grateful for this new place to hold meetings." Prior to the modifications, numerous committee meetings were cancelled or postponed due to the lack of spacing at the facility, which could only accommodate one meeting at a time, whereas it can now accommodate 2 meetings running simultaneously. This better accommodates the council's 17 committees, which include essential services, strategic planning, legal, ethics, health, education and social services.
"Often times, they turn to us for support or assistance in how they run their meetings," Fazekas said. "One of the things we did was provide them with a copy of policy manuals that Dr. Fadhil and I worked on; it goes through all 17 committees and provides more detail on the existing bylaws."   Eventually, said Fazekas, the Kadhamiyah DAC will conduct its meetings without the assistance of CF support.  "Kadhamiyah has professional citizens, and the education level for the DAC members is high," he said. "I am hopeful that when the time comes for them to stand on their own, they will efficiently continue to take care of the citizens."

Kadhamiyah District Advisory Council leaders brief their fellow members during the first meeting.
(Army photos by Spc. Dustin Roberts)

Col. Joseph Martin (right), cmdr., 2nd HBCT, admires photos that illustrate the progression of constructing the new Kadhamiyah District Advisory Council meeting hall.

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IP, SoI degrade IED cell in Tarmiyah

BAGHDAD - Jan. 24. IP and SoI apprehended 2 suspects attempting to emplace explosive devices that were strapped to a bicycle near a funeral site. After questioning the suspects, IP and SoI were led to a nearby cache containing propaganda, magnets, timers, homemade explosives, mortar fuses and batteries.  The suspects also led the IP and SoI to a site suspected of housing other members of the IED cell where 3 more were arrested.
Their combined efforts to proceed on actionable intel helped to remove 5 suspected terrorist off the streets, 3 of them were accused of killing Lt. Col. Ismail on Jan. 23, the leader of the IP force in Tarmiyah.

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Airport Road Checkpoints Renovated, Manned by Iraqi National Police       

Iraqi NP now have control of security checkpoints along Baghdad's Airport Road, adding to their ongoing mission to secure the people of Iraq.
(Photo by Staff Sgt. Brent Williams)

FOB FALCON — The last security checkpoint on Baghdad’s famous Airport Road was officially handed over to the Iraqi NP, Jan. 24. The 1st BCT Infrastructure Coordination Element supervised the building of 9 checkpoints on Airport Road to assist in the major renovation project, and improve the overall appearance and function of the highway to international standards, said Lt. Col. Dave Hill, commander of 1st Special Troops Bn, 1st BCT, 4th ID.
With the improving security situation in Baghdad, the GoI initiated a project in July 2008 to revitalize the capital’s major thoroughfare, approx. seven km of highway connecting Baghdad to southern Iraq.  CF will assist in the major reconstruction project, particularly with the overhaul of the Iraqi SF checkpoints along Airport Road, said Hill.
Designed to improve security and force protection for the ISF, the checkpoints are a small contribution to the renovation project led by Baghdad’s Amanat, the city’s public works department responsible for overseeing many of Iraq’s reconstruction projects, Hill explained.  The bn hired local Iraqi contractors to construct the checkpoints, pouring reinforced concrete, fixing lights to illuminate the access points and building an environmentally controlled office to serve the Iraqi NP, who used to operate the checkpoints from their vehicles, explained Hill.
The bn directly contributed to the project by providing its own assets to remove more than 2,000 concrete walls and earthen barriers once lining Airport Road, while the Amanat painted fixed bridges, and is now repairing the road, said Hill.
“The record speaks for itself, and the level of attacks on that road are extremely low,” he explained. “We didn’t remove something without a plan to compensate for the overall security of the road, so the city govt built some permanent walls like seen on many highways back in the U.S.”
The progress of the Airport Road renovation project indicates that the Iraqis understand how important their work is for the future of the nation, said Maj. Tom Clark, 4th ID.  “The partnership is ongoing, working with the ISF and the city governance to make sure that the issues and the challenges that are identified are worked to solutions,” said Clark.

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ISF confiscate weapons, clear munitions from Rashid

BAGHDAD - Iraqi SF partnered with Co B and D, 1st Bn, 22nd Inf Regt, 1st BCT, 4th ID, confiscated munitions and seized weapons caches Jan. 25 in Baghdad's Rashid district.  The combined caches included an anti-armor mine, 10 AK-47 assault rifles, a .22-cal. rifle, an RPG, 2 kilograms of gun powder, a grenade, a stick of dynamite, 1,000 rounds of PKC machinegun ammo and 100 rounds of 7.62 mm ammo.

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Border Briefing

SSgt. John Tremblay, B Troop, 1st Sqdrn, 9th Cav Regt, 4th BCT, 1st Cav Div, instructs Iraqi Dept of Border Enforcement Agents on leadership procedures, at the Al Hwayza Border Fort in Maysan province, Jan. 23.
(Photo by Staff Sgt. Brendan Stephens)

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Nuristan PRT assists village with growth and development

By TF Duke, PAO Staff, 3rd BCT, 1st ID

BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan (January 17, 2009) — The Nuristan PRT recently visited Zirat village to assess the effectiveness of completed projects and work with villagers on solutions for overcoming hardships.
Until February of last year, the main income for the villagers was earned by harvesting poppy.  Since the eradication of poppy production the villagers have turned to other methods to provide for their families. To assist in the effort, the PRT recently constructed a canal that feeds into the villager’s farmlands, allowing them to maximum their farmland.  “With the canal they are able to spread the water and grow wheat in the winter and corn in the summer as well as saplings, fruit trees and nut trees that we planted for them,” said Master Sgt. Ryan Bodmer, PRT NCO in charge.
Farming is not the only means of financial income for the villagers.  Kathrin Lauer, the U.S. Agency for Int'l Development rep assigned to the PRT, met with a group of women whom expressed an interest in earning an income.  “What they told me was with the eradication of the poppy, they simply do not have enough money.”
Lauer suggested the possibility of making money by learning an intricate Afghan embroidery technique used by women in Kabul and Jalalabad to earn up to $300 a month.  “An Afghan American, living in New York and working in the fashion industry, saw that the embroidery the Afghan women do is so unique, that it sells well in the US,” said Lauer.
Financial and irrigation issues in Zirat are only a fraction of the obstacles the PRT must overcome in Nuristan, often referred to as the “forgotten province”.  To Lt. Col. Lawrence Pickett, EO and PRT senior civil affairs officer, the only thing to do in Nuristan is build from the ground up. “The focus here in Nuristan is construction. There have been no schools or road networks built here in the last 30 years, so we, the PRT, like our predecessors, are constructing new roads, schools and medical facilities that have never been in this province,” said Pickett.
Things are looking up for the people of Nuristan as giant steps forward are being made every day.  “We put in a tremendous amount of work in a day,” said Bodmer. “We work from sun up to sun down and beyond.  I know each and every one of us here is going to work hard toward handing over a better, safer and more stable Nuristan to the next PRT.”

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Blackanthem Military News

By US Forces Afghanistan Public Affairs

Coalition forces disrupt the Haqqani network in Khost

KABUL, Afghanistan - CF detained 9 suspected militants during an op aimed at further destroying the Haqqani terrorist network in Khost province, Jan. 22.
The op in Khost District, approx. 150 km southeast of Kabul, targeted a Haqqani militant believed to facilitate attacks against local civilians, as well as Afghan and CF. Intel also suggests the militant facilitates and coordinates the movement of Islamic Jihadist Union and other foreign fighters into eastern Afghanistan.

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Dear Interested Reader,
The 1st of 100 greenhouses is erected at Radwaniyah.  Medical professionals meet at the newly renovated Beida Health Center to continue their medical education.  Leaders continue SoI successful coordination and integration.  Throughout Baghdad numerous weapons caches seized.  In Afghanistan, CF forces disrupt IED network in Zabul, while the Dept. of Agriculture and the Konar PRT collect soil samples, aiming to increase fertility.
Joanna
____________________________

Jan. 26, 2009

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

Leaders break ground at Radwaniyah greenhouse

FOB FALCON - Jan. 22, leaders from Troop B, 7th Sqdrn, 10th Cav Regt, 1st BCT, 4th ID, witnessed the
Radwaniyah greenhouse ground-breaking ceremony with their Iraqi SF partners, as the Radwaniyah farmer's cooperation assn. erected the first of 100 greenhouses.
Raad Hanna, the 1st BCT ePRT's agricultural advisor, said the benefits of the greenhouses will impact the future of this area. The new agriculture practices of using greenhouses will increase the farmer's vegetable crop yields to make the harvest more productive, and earn the farmers more money when they sell their products in
Baghdad's market places, Raad explained.  The seeds and fertilizer to stimulate plant growth will be furnished by the farmer's organization for use in the greenhouses, he said. The farmers will receive training to teach them new techniques designed to boost their crop production with new technologies.
The farmers plan to grow tomatoes, cucumbers, melons, watermelons, potatoes, eggplants, peppers, okra, beans and other vegetables in the greenhouses, explained Hussein, who is the chairman of the Ma Baynaa Al-Nahreen, or The Land Between the Two Rivers, Farmer's Co-op Assn.
During the ceremony, Shaykh al-Jabour, the Radwaniyah Tribal Support Council Chairman, thanked MND-B leaders for attending.  "We thank the CF for their help," Ayad said. "Day after day, we work together on construction to improve Iraq for the sons of Radwaniyah. We're building the greenhouses to help the farmers of
Radwaniyah support their families."
"The greenhouse project is a great thing for the Radwaniyah people," said Sgt. 1st Class Eric McCoy, Co D, 404th CAB (Abn) civil affairs team leader. "It shows what the farmer's co-op association can accomplish."

Shaykh al-Jabour describes the plan for another civil affairs project with 1st Lt. David Lisovich, Troop B, 7th Cav Regt, 1st BCT, 4th ID EO, and Sgt. 1st Class Eric McCoy. The men met at Shaykh Ali Alash's house in SW Baghdad after the ground-breaking ceremony.
(Army photos by Maj. Dave Olson)

Shaykh Ali Alash, the chairman of the Ma Baynaa Al-Nahreen, explains the triangle window in the adobe building he built 25 years ago, before the greenhouse ground-breaking ceremony. The triangular shape is stronger and can support the weight of the adobe bricks better than a square window.

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Baghdad medical professionals meet, talk shop in Beida

BAGHDAD - Medical professionals from the Rusafa area of Baghdad met at the newly renovated Beida Health Center, Jan. 19 to seek continued medical education to advance in their fields.
Approx. 25 doctors and pharmacists from the Adhamiyah district of Baghdad and the Istaqlal Qada met for the first time in the new facility in northern Adhamiyah to share knowledge on Rheumatic Fever, Hemorrhagic Fever, and internet studies as part of a continued education program for doctors of eastern Baghdad. The topics on the docket were just a few of many the medical professionals will entertain during future seminars expected to be held monthly at the facility.
"Some clinics don't have computers or internet, and this is a forum where doctors can come together and share what they've seen and learned in the area," said 1st Lt. William Mennis, medical officer for 1st Bn, 27 Inf Regt, 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID.  Mennis, whose battalion is currently attached to the 3rd BCT, 4th ID, said the seminar was a grand opening of sorts for the new health clinic completed just 3 months before.
Dr. Mahmood Salman, director of the Beida facility and 11 other health clinics in the Rusafa area, said the new facility will provide primary health care needs to the community, as well as serve as an administration office and a convention center for medical seminars like this one.  "It will elevate the knowledge and studies in primary health
care for the community and improve prevention and treatment," Mahmood said.
"The gathering of colleagues in the field of medicine will help spread valuable health and medical knowledge in an area where continued medical education has been largely non-functional," said Capt. Scott Tebo, bde surgeon for 3rd BCT, 4th ID.  "To see Iraqis pick it up on their own, take their own initiative to educate each other is a terrific step," Tebo said. "It's similar to the model we use in the U.S."
More than half the doctors at the seminar were women physicians and pharmacists, from the Shaab neighborhood of Adhamiyah, partnering with their male counterparts in an educational environment.  Dr. Nadia Ghazi was asked by Mahmood the day before the seminar to present her thesis on Rheumatic Fever and she graciously accepted.  Nadia said Shaab has a high level of infectious disease due to overcrowding and a socially underprivileged population. She said the new facility and the monthly seminars will greatly improve the region's
level of care.  "It is very important to refresh our info, to see what is happening in the world," Nadia said. "Here we can get a full description of the disease, study new cases, and learn advances in medicine we can discuss."

Dr. Nadia Ghazi presents her thesis on Rheumatic Fever to a classroom of doctors and pharmacists.
(Army photos by Maj. Mike Humphreys)

Renovation of the Baghdad Dept of Health and health clinic building.

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Leaders Continue Sons of Iraq Coordination, Integration 

By Sgt. Rodney Foliente

Brig. Gen. Jeffrey Buchanan, MND - Center dep. comm. gen. for ops, speaks to Lt. Gen. Oothman, 8th IA Div. cmdr., during an SoI coordination meeting at the 8th IA Div. HQ, Jan. 21, 2009.

DIWANIYA —  Lt. Gen. Oothman, host of the meeting, discussed the importance of the transition and his confidence in the 8th IA Div. and the local govt to take control of the program, which is scheduled to be entirely under GoI control in March.
“This is one more thing where we can step back, and you can step forward in taking over the security of Iraq,” said Brig. Gen. Jeffrey Buchanan.  A large number of SoI will eventually transition into Iraqi SF positions, which makes oversight by the 8th IA Div. a logical step, said Chief Warrant Officer 2 James Outlaw, 2nd BCT, 4th ID targeting officer.  “It allows the SoI to transition easily into the ISF or into govt jobs."
The 8th IA Div. is in charge of security for approx. 25% of Iraq and encompasses 5 provinces, and approx. 10,600 registered SoI members will fall under the 8th IA Div.’s area of ops.  “Lt. Gen. Oothman is ready to support the GoI in the transition of the SoI program,” said Capt. Adam Cmerek, fire support officer, 2nd CAB, 8th Inf Regt, 2nd BCT, 4th ID.  Cmerek expressed his confidence in the Iraqis’ ability to take over responsibility of the program, and ultimately, of the country’s security.
During the December meeting, leaders also discussed the eventual dissolution of the SoI program, and the GoI plans to offer approx. 80% of the SoI members vocational training and govt job placement assistance. The remaining 20% is slated to transition into positions within the ISF.

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ISF, MND-B Soldiers seize weapons in Baghdad

BAGHDAD -  Jan. 24, acting on a tip, IA soldiers discovered a cache that contained approx. 200 7.62 mm rounds of small-arms ammo, and 14 RPG rounds at approx. 11:15 a.m., west of Baghdad.
IA Soldiers, and Soldiers with Co C, 1st Bn, 21st Inf Regt, 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID, seized a weapons cache at approx. 1:30 p.m., west of Baghdad. The munitions included 29 60 mm mortars, a 120 mm mortar, 2 130 mm mortars, 3 RPG boosters, 9 RPG rounds, 3 155 mm projectiles, 4 shotgun flares, 3 grenades, an anti-aircraft machine gun, and a box of anti-aircraft rounds.
The arrest of 2 suspects captured for emplacing an IED at a funeral, led to the discovery of a weapons cache in one of the detainee's homes.  IP and Soldiers serving with Co A, 1st Bn, 14th Inf Regt, 2nd SBCT, 25th ID seized the cache in Tarmiyah at 3:45 p.m. The cache included 2 IEDs, a 57 mm projectile, 30 pounds of unknown bulk explosive, and 30 washing machine timers.
IP confiscated weapons during a clearance mission in West Rashid at approx. 4 p.m. The mission, conducted to ensure a safe environment for the upcoming elections, turned up 23 AK-47 rifles, an SKS rifle and a sound pistol used for firing blanks.
Two hours later, IA soldiers seized 6 57 mm rockets.  A Mansour resident contacted authorities when he discovered the rockets hidden in an old septic system while making repairs.
SoI members turned in a weapons cache to a local Sheik north of Baghdad at 9 p.m. The cache included 5 73 mm heat rockets, 6 RPG charges, a 40 mm grenade, 5 30 mm rifle grenades and 6 grenade fuses.
At approx. the same time, IA soldiers found 3 60 mm mortars in East Rashid.  Also at 9 p.m., a concerned citizen's tip led NP and Soldiers serving with Co A, 1st Bn, 22nd Inf Regt, 1st BCT, 4th ID, to a cache in a West Rashid home. The cache included 62 rockets, 23 RPGs, 26 RPG boosters, 5 RPG launchers, 23 miscellaneous launchers, 28 missiles, a mortar base plate, 2 land mines, approx. 20 sticks of TNT, 14 blasting caps, detonation cord, and 2 possible EFPs.

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IA, MND-B Soldiers keep Baghdad safe

FOB WAR EAGLE - 

An IA officer speaks to Capt. Andrew Farina, Co B, 1st Bn, 27th Inf Regt, 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID cmdr., currently attached to 3rd BCT, 4th ID, during patrols conducted along a highway in the heart of Baghdad, Jan. 16. (Army photos by Spc. John Ahn)

An IAy soldier patrols with Pfc. James Lohuis, infantryman with Co B, during a combined dismounted patrol in an urban area of Baghdad, Jan. 16.

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Army SSgt. Buddy, an explosive detection and attack dog, stands tall to sniff a suspicious scent as Army Sgt. Tyler Barriere, military working dog handler, 163rd MP Det., based out of Fort Campbell, Ky., and attached to STB, 2nd BCT, 4th ID, looks on during a search demonstration at Camp Echo, Jan. 7.
Photo by Sgt. Rodney Foliente

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Working Together

Army Sgt. 1st Class Jason A. Obermuller of 3rd Bn, 29th FA, 3rd BCT, 4th ID conducts a radio check before he and his platoon, along with IA Soldiers conduct a market cordon and search on Jan. 18, 2009 in Baghdad.
Photo by Sgt. Edwin Bridges

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Friendship

Iraqi children watch as U.S. and IA Soldiers conduct a market cordon and search on Jan. 20, 2009 in Baghdad. Photo by Sgt. Edwin Bridges

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Headquarters United States Forces Afghanistan  

Coalition forces disrupt IED network in Zabul       

KABUL, Afghanistan – CF killed 6 armed Taliban militants and detained a suspected militant during an op to disrupt the Taliban’s foreign fighter and roadside bomb network in Zabul province, Jan. 21.
In Daychopan District, approx. 150 km northeast of Kandahar City, CF targeted a Taliban cmdr. wanted for his ties to the roadside bombing network along Highway One, and recent attacks against CF in Zabul province. He is also known to traffic foreign fighters into the region.
As CF prepared to search the targeted compound, they gave specific instructions for all individuals to exit peacefully.  Armed militants from surrounding compounds responded to these instructions by engaging CF with small-arms fire. Coalition forces returned fire, killing 5 armed militants during the engagement, while protecting 23 women and 31 children.
During the skirmish an armed militant exited a building and took up a fighting position on a nearby hill, engaging the CF from behind large rocks. Unable to neutralize the threat with small-fire and while taking effective enemy fire, CF engaged the militant with precision air strikes, killing him.
A search of the targeted compound revealed multiple AK-47s and other weapons.

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USDA collects soil samples in Konar       

by U.S. Navy Lt. j.g. James Dietle Konar PRT Public Affairs Office  

BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan (January 16, 2009) — The U.S. Dept of Agriculture and the Konar PRT began an ambitious project aiming to increase the fertility of the soil in Konar province, Afghanistan.  Konar valley has a rich culture of farming.  However, this culture has faced many setbacks, including infrastructure damage during 30 years of warfare and harsh terrain.  “In order to help the people of Konar grow crops more efficiently, we need to know what they have to work with,” said Bruce Dubee, USDA and Konar PRT member.  “Through lab analysis, we can find out what they are working with.”
Soil samples are being collected throughout the province to be added to a database that documents soil types from around the world.  Currently, Afghanistan has no info in this database.  Jason Nemecek, USDA and Konar PRT member, summarizes the importance of the project.  “In the US, with our knowledge of agriculture, we can produce 100 bushels of wheat per acre of land.  Here, they can only produce 30 bushels.  If we want to improve their lives, we need to simply shrink that gap.”
Local Afghan workers are helping with the process by digging 7 foot holes to allow the soil to be sampled in layers.  Once examined and labelled, some samples are prepared for the journey back to the U.S.  Half of the samples are sent to the USDA’s Nat'l Lab in Lincoln, Neb. for analysis; while the other half are kept in Afghanistan to be tested in local labs, in hopes to one day provide analysis on a more individual scale.
With the combined efforts of the USDA and Konar PRT, soil samples have been collected from Khas Konar, Watapor and Asadabad, the capital of Konar province.  Although the soil in each region has its own unique characteristics, they are all very similar in one aspect.  “There is a lot of really good soil,” said Ed Tallyn, USDA and Konar PRT member. “In the US, this would be classified as prime farmland. We would pay people not to develop on it.”
In the years to come, the info gathered here could be the catalyst for an agricultural resurgence in Konar province, providing a greater understanding of agriculture throughout not only Afghanistan but throughout Asia as well.

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Dear Interested Reader,
IA along with a Dallas based Army Reserve unit support Basra schools.  Iraqi NP and CF are busy preparing voting sites.  It's a pleasure to highlight the many accomplishments of Sgt. 1st Class Jeffrey Morin.  American Idol winner David Cook entertains troops at FOB Warhorse.  Numerous weapons caches seized.  In Afghanistan, school project brings education and hope, especially to girls once forbidden to go to school by the Taliban.  Also, the newly established COP Terminator is seeing immediate progress.
Joanna
________________________

Jan. 25, 2009

Blackanthem Military News

Monster Garage

By 1st Lt. Paul Laymon

Sgt.1st Class Jeffrey Morin, inspects final installation of Objective Gunners Protection Kit, or OGPK.  Morin is currently deployed with the 503rd Maintenance Co, 398th CSSB, 10th Sust Bde in support of MND - Baghdad, Jan. 21.
(Photos by Chief Warrant Officer 3 Howard Pepper)

CAMP LIBERTY - The 503rd Maintenance Co, 398th CSSB, is currently stationed at the Victory Base Compound in Baghdad.  The company has many sections in it that perform a multitude of missions.  There are many members of this org. who have held a myriad of positions and accomplished many things in their careers.  One of them is Sgt. 1st Class Jeffrey Morin.  Although currently assigned as the automotive plt sgt, Morin has held several positions.  Before arriving in Iraq and during the first 3 months in theater, he was the automotive NCO-in-charge.  He established the process that is currently used by the platoon to install all OGPKs on the M1151 series of High Mobility Multi-Purpose Wheeled Vehicles.  Under his guidance, the Automotive PLT earned the right to say that it was the second largest site installing OGPKs, and had performed more installations than any other site in theater.
Morin served as a member of an All-Army "Mechanic" Team that competed on the Discovery Channel show, Monster Garage, with famed motorcycle builder, Jesse James.  The premise of the show is that the team is given 7 days and $5,000 to transform an ordinary vehicle into an extraordinary one.  The All-Army Team was given a World War II Jeep to transform into a twin-engine tractor puller.  The team showcased the talents of 6 Soldiers from different technical fields and included a warrant officer, a lt, 2 NCOs and 2 enlisted Soldiers.  The team completed the task before the deadline and was awarded some MAC Tools.
His instructor skills were also used for the Discovery Channel show, Dirty Jobs, hosted by Mike Rowe.  During this show, the host performs different jobs that are deemed "dirty" by normal society.  Morin instructed the task on how to recover a vehicle that was mired in 3 feet of water.  He also instructed the host in all aspects of safety, rigging techniques, mechanical advantage and recovery methods.

 Sgt.1st Class Jeffrey Morin, extracts a bolt broken during the installation of OGPK.

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

IA, Coalition forces support Basra schools

BASRA - An IA civil military ops team along with support from a Dallas based Army Reserve unit provided humanitarian assistance to Basra public schools on Jan 15.
IA Soldiers along with Soldiers of the 490th CAB, traveled to the Al Zubair and Karowaan kindergartens in the Al Zubair district of Basra to deliver school supplies and make further refurbishment assessments.  The Al Zubair kindergarten School, with 140 students and a teaching faculty of 18, was the first school the IA Soldiers visited.
The head master, Aroba Salman, said the students and teachers were excited and happy to welcome the Soldiers to their school.  Salman helped Col. Mahee hand out backpacks, pencils and writing tablets to the students.
"Iraqi public schools are a meeting place for many ethnic, religious and social statuses of children and there are no better people to get education that will help better the country," Mahee said.  He and his Soldiers have visited 16 schools and determined them to be in need of refurbishment.  Several of the schools had students who were in need of school supplies.
"The IA has grown significantly in their understanding of the positive role civil affairs has in building a bridge between the IA and civilian populace," said Maj. Craig R. Bowser, 490th CA officer who has partnered with both Mahee and Hussain many times since he arrived here in Basra.

IA Col. Mahee and Maj. Craig R. Bowser discuss the planning for the Iraqi humanitarian assistance mission.
(Army photos by Maj. Christopher A. Emmons)

Iraqi Army Col. Mahee and Maj. Craig R. Bowser deliver school supplies to the young students of Al Zubair Kindergarten School.

 

A decorated classroom.

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NPs prepare voting sites

FOB SHIELD - 

 

An NA officer and a Paratrooper assigned to Troop C, 5th Sqdrn, 73rd Cav Regt, 82nd Abn Div, 3rd BCT, assess the location of a future voting site, Jan. 18 in the Rusafa district of eastern Baghdad.  Iraqi provincial elections are scheduled for Jan 31.

 

Paratroopers assigned to Troop C assess another location of a future voting site.

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Iraqi Security Forces, Coalition forces plan election security

DIYALA - IA and police leaders met with the area's senior CF leaders at FOB Warhorse, Jan. 22 to discuss and rehearse a security plan for the  Diyala provincial elections scheduled for Jan. 31. Using laser pointers and multi-media devices, ISF leaders took center stage during the rehearsal to talk about their plans for security throughout the province, both on Election Day and the days leading up to it.

An Iraqi officer and Lt. Col. Matthew Anderson (right), cmdr, 2nd Bn, 8th FAR, look at a geographical model of Diyala provincial voting centers.  The election rehearsal brief outlined security measures for IA and Police providing the first security line at provincial voting centers throughout Diyala province.
(Army photos by Spc. Bobby L. Allen Jr.)

Col. Burt Thompson, cmdr., 1st Stryker BCT, 25th ID (left), and Staff Maj. Gen. Damook, provincial dir. of police (Diyala), review discussion topics before the election brief. near Baqouba.  

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American Idol winner welcomed at Warhorse

Diyala -  "How you guys doing tonight?" he yells out to the crowd of listeners.  Without another word, the crowd of 1st Stryker BCT Soldiers and civilians begin to flood the stage area at FOB Warhorse's food court.
The crowd begins to hush as David Cook, rock singer-songwriter, grabs hold of the microphone, smiles at the crowd and signals his band to begin playing. "This song is called 'I did it for you'," Cook says, as the crowd applauds in cheer and whistles.
Even with his new found fortune and fame, Cook is still very much a humble man and is tour of Iraq is no exception. "To be able to do something of this kind of magnitude, it's definitely a big deal to us," Cook said, referring to his band mates. "I was privileged enough to be asked to come here. I have family in the military, so to be asked to do something like this is a badge of honor for me and for my family to know that we are doing something."
On his first tour of Iraq, Cook says he has learned a lot from each and every person he had been able to talk with. "This trip has been life-changing and an eye-opening experience to say the very least," Cook stated. "It's been really intriguing for me to just be able to talk with the Soldiers and hear their stories. Coming out here has allowed me to really take on a different perspective.  I think I would go home and change myself as person because of it."
Cook addressed the crowd one last time before ending his encore performance, "Heroes. Thank you for having us, it's been a real pleasure," Cook said. A roar of applause began as Cook and his band concluded the concert.
After the concert, Cook and his band remained behind to take pictures and sign autographs for the fans.

David Cook, rock singer-songwriter.
(Army photo by Spc. Opal Vaughn)

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IA, IP, MND-B Soldier seize weapons cache in Baghdad

BAGHDAD -  With a tip from a local citizen, IP discovered a cache on a rooftop in the New Baghdad district of Baghdad, Jan. 22. The weapons included 7 60mm high explosive mortar rounds with fuses, a 60mm mortar round, 3 85mm heat rocket PG-7s, a 85mm heat rocket, 2 70mm heat rocket PG-7Ms, a 9mm weapons slide, 2 60mm mortar tubes, a RPG launcher and a training RPG launcher.
Acting on a tip, IA soldiers and Soldiers serving with Co B, 1st Bn, 21st Inf Regt, 2nd SBCT, 25th ID, found a cache that contained approx. 33 pounds of explosive material west of Baghdad.
IA soldiers working alongside Soldiers serving with Co C, 1st Bn., 21st Inf. Regt., discovered a cache  NW of Baghdad. The seized munitions consisted of 27 130mm projectiles.
IA soldiers working with Solders serving with Co A, 1st Bn., 21st Inf. Regt., uncovered a cache that contained a rocket launcher, 3 122mm projectiles, 14 hand grenades and approx. 300 pounds of explosive material west of Baghdad.

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Iraqi SWAT destroys weapons cache

BALAD - Tikrit SWAT recovered a weapons cache during an op Jan. 21, north of Tikrit. The cache consisted of 122 155 mm rounds, 6 80 mm rounds, 6 122 mm artillery rounds, a 20 mm anti-armor round, 11 155 mm fuses, 2  155 mm proximity fuses, an 80 mm mortar round and 2 mortar tubes.

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Aloha

Sgts. Kiory Potes (left) and Kaleo Anderson (right) sitting outside the Bucca Inn on Camp Bucca, Jan. 15, 2009, giving "Shaka" which is a hand gesture to say hello or "Aloha."
(Photo courtesy of 1st Sust Command (Theater) Public Affairs)

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Command Joint Task Force - 101

School project brings hope, education to Nangarhar

by AF Capt. Dustin Hart, 3rd BCT, 1st ID

BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan  — Members of the Nangarhar PRT demonstrated their commitment to furthering education during a ground-breaking ceremony of the Maliki Surial girls’ school in Behsood District, Jan. 11.
“The key to success in Afghanistan is education of all children,” said Lt. Col. Steven Cabosky, Nangarhar PRT cmdr.  “While this school project will help, the hard work still exists.  It’s up to all of you to make sure your children are able to go to school and receive an education. That is what will build a strong Afghanistan.”
The ceremony featured members of the prov. govt, school admin., and PRT speaking about the opportunities created by the new school.  “Currently, the girls attend an open-air school where they sit outdoors and learn,” said Capt. Elisabeth Leon, Nangarhar PRT lead engr. “When the weather turns bad, they simply can’t go to school.”
The school will feature 10 classrooms for more than 1,400 girls to attend classes throughout the year, and is expected to be completed in the next 9 months.  The importance of education, especially in regards to Afghan females, was stressed in many of the speakers’ comments.  “Education is very important for girls,” said Gulali  Zai, Maliki Surial’s headmistress.  “Females are responsible for the household, and can in turn, educate their children and husbands within the house.”
Before the Taliban govt was defeated in 2001, less than one million children attended school in Afghanistan, virtually none were females. Since then, the number has grown to more than 6 million children, with 35% of these students being female according to Int'l Security Assistance Force-Afghanistan statistics.
“In every district we travel to, educating the children is a priority to the leadership,” Leon said to the crowd of mostly females.  “This school is a sign that the hopes, opportunities and dreams of Afghan females are coming true.  I ask you to keep your heads high and reach for every opportunity to learn and grow.”
The PRT is currently working with the Ministry of Education on 15 boys and girls school projects throughout Nangarhar province. These are part of 50 projects, that the PRT is working on throughout the province.

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Command Joint Task Force - 101

Newly established COP sees quick progress

by Tech. Sgt. Jill LaVoie, 2nd Bn, 2nd Inf Regt, 3rd BCT, 1st ID

BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan (January 10, 2009) – Members of Alpha Co, 2nd Bn, 2nd Inf Regt, are seeing positive results from their increased presence at the newly built COP Terminator in Maywand District, Kandahar province, Afghanistan.
Within weeks of building a permanent COP, the 3rd BCT, 1st ID Soldiers reported an increased willingness from local residents to assist, and receive assistance from CF.  “When we first came to the area, no one would talk to us,” said Capt. Chris Brawley, Alpha Co. cmdr.  “As soon as we started building, they began talking to us.”
COP Terminator was built to restrict Taliban movement through the area.  “The Maywand District is used to move supplies, narcotics and medical support for the Taliban,” said Spc. Andrew Gardiner, 2nd Bn, 2nd Inf. Soldier. “Our goal here is to disrupt the supply routes for the Taliban.”
“Before, we came here for a couple of days, but then we would leave and it would be back to business as usual for the Taliban,” said Brawley.  “People have told us that within days of building, the Taliban started clearing out of here.”  Alpha Co. Soldiers want to continue to build on this success.  “When we first got here most people would tell you that it was 6 months since they had last seen CF, and 1 day since they had last seen the Taliban,” said Brawley. “We want to reverse that. We want to patrol so much that we are a constant presence.”
Gardiner believes this will continue to grow support in the area.  “They're warming up to us, because they recognize we're going to stay.  Our area of influence will expand as we have more opportunities to get out and talk to people. Each time we patrol, we try to talk to more people. They are definitely more positive about our presence.”

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Dear Interested Reader,
Rashid district opens Doura Public Library.  The AF is in the spotlight today.  US AF Capt. Tom Fiordelisi has rewarding tour of duty teaching Iraqi cadets.  A story about enemy weapons collection.  Iraqi AF partners with CAB, 4th ID for their first Combined Flight.  Iraqi-Americans returning to rebuild Iraq.  Air Force Engineering Flight awarded top honor for 2008.  In Afghanistan, several successful AF missions in striking enemy targets.
Joanna
______________________

Jan. 24, 2009

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

Rashid district opens Doura Public Library

BAGHDAD - Soldiers of the 1st BCT, 4th ID, and Iraqi SF joined local civic leaders Jan. 21, to commemorate the opening of the Doura Public Library in the Rashid district, christening a cultural and educational landmark for the Iraqi citizens of southern Baghdad.
The public library, capable of housing approx. 10,000 books, and a score of personal computers for use by Iraqi citizens and school children, is an indicator of Iraq's growing emphasis on education and civilization, said Zahra Hussein, media supervisor for the Doura Library.  Zahra, an active volunteer for schools in the area, said that she hopes the Doura Library will serve as one of many educational institutions created to foster the spirit of civilization and intellectualism in Baghdad and Iraq.
"We all remember how this library was destroyed due to the violent acts, and books were scattered all over the floor," said Hashim Dahash, Rashid District Council deputy chairman.  In conjunction of the opening of the Doura Public Library, Hashim said that he hopes Jan. 22 will become the Rashid district's official "Reading Day" for future generations of Iraqis.
SSgt. Aja Andreu, civil affairs team leader assigned to Co D, 404th CAB, served as the project manager and conducted the initial assessment on the renovation necessary to restore the building's educational services.
Working with the 1st BCT ePRT, the U.S. Dept of State, and a nongovernmental organization, Friends of the Library, Andreu hired a local Iraqi contractor to refurbish the building, acquired furniture from a local carpenter and restored a children's room and a computer room with 15 personal computers with desktop monitors, and internet service.  She also acquired a generator for the Doura Library, which is open to the general public Sunday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.  Andreu said she used the NGO to procure the library's educational materials for public use, and that nearly 1,000 children books and more than 150 adult education books are on back order to complete the project started in September of 2008.
"I would like to thank everybody who helped make this happen," said Andreu. "It is a special day for me. This has been a very hard project, and it has taken a lot of work by both the military and the residents of Doura."  Andreu said that she hopes the library will soon become a public institution for the benefit of all of Rashid's citizens.

Sabeeh Radyi, Rashid District Council Education Committee chairman, treats Iraqi school children to story time.
(Army photo by Maj. Dave Olson)

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US Air Forces Central
by Senior Master Sgt. Trish Freeland

Airman wraps up rewarding tour teaching Iraqi cadets

RUSTAMIYAH -- Ali-Talib, Iraqi AF cadet, thanks U.S. AF Capt. Tom Fiordelisi for the training he has received at the Iraqi Military Academy al Rustamiyah.  Fiordelisi, an air advisor with the 321st Air Expeditionary Training Group, has taught courses in English Language Training, Air Power, Followership and Leadership for the Iraqi AF Training Wing.
(AF photo by SSgt. Paul Villanueva II)

1/10/2009 - RUSTAMIYAH -- Teaching leadership in a foreign land was never part of his career plan, but that's exactly what Capt. Tom Fiordelisi has been doing for the last 12 months at a FOB near Baghdad.
The leadership course he teaches is part of a grassroots training program that prepares cadets for careers in the Iraqi AF officer corps.  "Like any other 20-year-olds, you give them a challenge, make that challenge reasonable and attainable as a goal, and they'll step up to the challenge," said Fiordelisi. "We are at the entry-level for officer training," said Fiordelisi. "These officers will climb though the ranks rapidly. They will soon be Lt. Cols., Cols. and possibly even Gens., if they are fast-tracked."
"In the U.S. AF, we have quite a few mid-level leaders, the capts. and majs. that have core experience and are training our lts and junior capts," said Fiordelisi. "Iraq doesn't have that mid-level mgt. experience." To fill the void faster and effectively, the Iraqi cadets spend a good portion of the year-long course focusing on English language training.  After the cadets successfully complete the English language course, they move on to officer-specific training including instruction in leadership and followership. From there, Iraqi cadets get commissioned and enter career-specific training.
Cadets Ali Talib and Hassan Ali completed the officer training course and are awaiting pilot training once they are commissioned later this month. To qualify for pilot training, they had to score a minimum of 70 on the English Language Proficiency Test.  Hassan Ali not only excelled at mastering the English language, he also scored well on the pilot qualification exam. But the training he found to be especially inspiring was the leadership-by-example he saw from Fiordelisi.  "He was knowledgeable, kind and a very good leader," said Hassan Ali. "I saw the way he treated other people and how he talks to his subordinates and the senior officers and he was amazing for doing that."
Fiordelisi will redeploy back to the U.S. just a day prior to seeing his last class graduate, but the experience has forever changed both the captain and his cadets. "They will hopefully continue to use the leadership principles we are teaching them now," said Fiordelisi. "As officers, they'll gain experience and knowledge as they grow older and become key leaders here in Iraq and allies to the U.S."

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US Air Forces Central

Airman leads joint team in managing the enemy’s cache

by Senior Master Sgt. Trish Freeland

TAJI -- Capt. Ted Yang calls out the serial number of an AK-47 rifle to Army Sgt. 1st Class Alejandro Jimenez, as he records the number at Taji Military Base.
(AF photo by SSgt. Paul Villanueva II)

1/8/2009 - TAJI -- Among the many missions executed at the Taji National Depot, one of the most interesting jobs is enemy weapons collection. AF Capt. Ted Yang is the liaison officer for Multi-National Security Transition Command-Iraq's J4 Collective Weapons section.  For him, each day literally brings something new.  "We collect anywhere from 100 to 1,000 weapons a week," said Yang. "I saw almost 3,000 weapons come through in just my first week on the job."
Yang and his joint team of Airmen, Soldiers and civilians are responsible for collecting weapons captured from insurgents so they can't be used against Iraqi and CF. Taji is the main collection point for all of Iraq.
"If it looks like a weapon or anything that could do harm, it gets collected during raids," said Army Sgt.1st Class Alejandro Jimenez, Collective Weapons Point NCO-in-charge. "Kitchenware, motorcycles, helicopters, a World War II-era BMW motorcycle with side car--anything that is captured," he said.
The weapons are inventoried and logged by serial number and weapon type. Most are destroyed, while the more unique items are often sent to museums.  Depending on the condition, some are refurbished and given to the Iraqi military. "About 1,500 AK-47s were given to the IA from the captured caches, so they could train and learn how to fix and maintain them," said Jimenez.
While most deployed jobs in a joint environment come with challenges, the biggest one for this team thus far has been the limited amount of daylight hours. "When units show up unannounced with large numbers of weapons, they can be processed if it's still morning," said Yang. "The warehouse closes at 5 p.m. because of lighting conditions, so if it's late the units have to take the weapons back and return the next morning to turn them in."

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IAF partners with CAB, 4th Inf. Div. for aviation missions in Baghdad

CAMP TAJI - In a show of partnership between the CAB, 4th ID, and the Iraqi AF, pilots from both countries flew personnel transport missions over Baghdad, Jan. 15 for the first time as a combined flight.
During the combined aviation mission over the Iraqi capital, the UH-1 Iroquois, piloted by Lt. Col. Abbas, IAF 2nd Sqdrn training officer led the way as the 2 aircraft made stops at various CF bases in the greater Baghdad area.
"The significance of this mission is the speed in which the AF is progressing," said AF Lt. Col. Michael McNerney, cmdr., 721st Air Expeditionary Advisory Sqdrn (AEAS). "While the ground forces have received a large amount of resources and attention for over 5 years, the AF has received very little until about a year and a half ago. The Iraqi rotary wing force has made great strides in the last year and a half, and is ready to accept a much larger role in the counter-insurgency efforts."
Obtaining these critical "resources" for the IAFs rotary wing component at Taji is a responsibility that rests solely on the members of the 721st AEAS.  The 721st AEAS, also known as a Coalition AF Transition Team, is responsible for aiding the development of the IAF helicopter forces at Camp Taji in order to create an org. that is a credible and effective contributor to the security of Iraq, McNerney said.  Combined aviation missions are an important part of the IAFs growth.
"I think this event demonstrates another example of the continuing growth and maturity of the IAF," said Maj. Michael Best, CAB EO. "Every event the IAF conducts in the battle space is a positive move in the right direction for the development of the Iraqi SF and their role in defending their nation.  It's a positive event when we can partner with the IAF," he said. "Just as it is important for the ground BCTs to have continuous interaction with their ISF counterparts, the CAB is now being afforded the same opportunity as the IAF reestablished itself."
As the IAF continues to forge new abilities, and works to assume full responsibility of aviation ops in Iraq, the Iraqi people are beginning to take note of the growing force as aircraft marked with the Iraqi National Flag fly overhead.  "Almost anytime we fly over, the Iraqi people come running out of their homes and wave at the aircraft," said Capt. Hank Luke, 721st AEAS chief of training. "I think the people feel a sense of pride and security in seeing the Iraqi flag on the helicopter's belly over their heads. Knowing that the GoI is projecting its SF throughout the country is absolutely critical to keeping the insurgency at bay, and displaying Iraqi airpower is an important piece of the security plan."

A UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter and a UH-1 Iroquois helicopter soar over Baghdad.
(Army photo by Sgt. Jason Dangel)

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Bilingual engineers help build hope in Baghdad

BAGHDAD - Since security has improved in northwest Baghdad, the 4th Sqdrn, 10th Cav Regt, operationally attached to the 2nd HBCT, 1st ID, has developed many engineering projects to advance the citizens' quality of life.
Over the past year, 2 bilingual and bicultural advisors made sure those projects were done right.  In areas such as Ameriyah, Khandra, Adl, Jamiya, Washhash and Mansour, civil engrs Nima Alsaiegh and Sami Bello, worked with contractors to refurbish schools, medical clinics and worked many other projects to improve northwest Baghdad.
"Nima and Sami provide a skill set that is hard to replicate internally within the sqdrn. As civilian engrs, they have the capability to create scopes of work and provide quality checks of the ongoing projects," said Lt. Col. Monty Willoughby, 4th Sqdn., 10th Cav. Regt., cmdr.  "As Iraqi-Americans, they are able to communicate directly with Iraqi contractors and have a based knowledge of their capabilities that Soldiers don't inherently understand.  We would not be able to have the same level of success without their contributions."
Capt. Andrew Graziano, Iraqi SF coordinator, 4th Sqdn., 10th Cav. Regt., said his unit did not have the engineering know-how to repave roads and build structures in his first deployment to Iraq. "We'd go out there and look at asphalt roads and we wouldn't know what to look for.  We wouldn't know what the composition or the layers of asphalt were supposed to look like, because we were not engrs and we were not qualified."
Among the details in many projects was the repair and replacement of tiles, roofs, doors, windows, repainted walls, sewage repair, and the additions of running water and electricity.  Some of the renovated schools didn't have bathrooms installed before they were worked on.
"Before renovations, the children were going to schools with broken windows, no lights and no ceiling fans; some of them didn't have bathrooms. They were so very unhappy," said Alsaiegh.  "Now, these children go to refurbished schools; there are bathrooms with water; there are places to play; there are basketball courts; there is a/c in the principal and asst principal's offices; there are complete computer labs. It is outstanding, and now they are very happy."
Alsaiegh added that because of other projects like solar-powered street lights, public works substations, sewage pump stations, sports centers and the Ameriyah swimming pool, the people of northwest Baghdad are gaining hope for a sustainable future. "We have done a lot here; I've been here almost 14 months working with the troops, and there is change in the mentality of the Iraqi people," he said. "We have served them, and they believe in us."
The Soldiers and the BBAs said over the last year, they have not only established a good rapport with the local citizens, they have also built strong friendships with each other.  "Working with 4-10 (Cav) members, from the cmdr. to each individual Soldier, was joyful to me," said Bello. "All were friendly and cooperative, and we worked as one family."
As the sqdrn prepares to redeploy to Fort Carson, Colo. in the coming months, Willoughby expressed his gratitude to the engrs for doing a job that would have been complicated for the Soldiers. "They demonstrate selfless service on a daily basis, always willing to work alongside Soldiers despite austere conditions and potential dangers," he said. "The story of Iraqi-Americans returning to rebuild Iraq must be told; without their contributions, the process of improving the infrastructure of Baghdad would have been incredibly more difficult."

Capt. Kelly Lanphere (right), fire support officer, 4th Sqdrn, along with Sami Bello (center) and Nami Alsaiegh, discuss a project in the Mansour district of northwest Baghdad.

Nami Alsaiegh assesses a project.

Iraqi Soldiers from the 4th Sqdrn, stand outside the Ameriyah Boys High School, Oct. 14 at the school's grand opening. The sqdrn contracted numerous engineering projects to improve the quality of life in NW Baghdad.

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U.S. Air Force Engineering Flight Awarded Top Honor 

By Staff Sgt. John Gordinier

Senior Airman Brandon Lindley finishes up a testing sample, Jan. 16, 2009. The sample measures the strength of concrete, which will be used in upcoming projects throughout Balad.

(Photo by Tech. Sgt. Lionel Castellano)

JOINT BASE BALAD — The engineering flight of the 332nd Expeditionary Civil Engr Sqdrn has earned the Brig. Gen. Archie S. Mayes Award for 2008 -- an Air Force-level award that recognizes the most accomplished CE programs flight for the year.
“The flight feels honored,” said Capt. James Rosner, Green team lead project mgr. “This Air Expeditionary Force rotation and the 2 previous to this one, all contributed to the award.  It’s amazing to see the baton passed from one team to the next without it dropping once. That is the key to our success: the dedicated people from the past year ensuring that the job is getting done right, the first time.”
The flight, comprised of 30 Airmen, designed and facilitated many projects throughout the year -- ultimately earning them the award. “We do more construction at Balad than some major commands,” said Maj. Rockie Wilson, 332nd ECES Engineering Flight chief. “We have approx. 87 current projects under construction, and even more in the design phase.”
The flight designs construction projects and performs long-term strategic planning, Wilson said. The flight also performs quality assurance for all construction projects to make sure AF standards are met.  Currently, the engineering flight is in the works of designing incinerators that will burn waste more cleanly and efficiently. Another project in the works is to build new facilities for the north and south entry points to Balad, Wilson said. This will improve the quality of life for SF Airmen.  “Other quality-of-life projects the [flight] constructed throughout the year were the Housing 6 Shoppette and the extension to the H6 gym,” the major added.
The flight built the facility transition plan for the transition of base operational support from the US Army to the US AF, Wilson said.  Balad is one of the only and certainly the largest installation in the central command area of responsibility, where the AF has base operational support, providing services to more than 30,000 people across nearly 8,000 facilities.
Another reason the flight earned the prestigious award was saving taxpayer money by cancelling projects not needed.  “We cancelled some large projects that are not going to be useful,” Wilson said. “These items would be nice to have, but are long projects and we would not get much use out of them, if we pull out soon after.”

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1/21/2009 -

US Air Forces Central

Jan. 20 Airpower Summary: A-10s, F-15Es strike enemy targets

In Afghanistan, AF A-10 Thunderbolt II's and F-15E Strike Eagles targeted several enemy fighting positions and machine gun nests with rockets, general purpose 500 pound bombs, and guided bomb unit-38s. The engagement supported a Coalition ground force operating near Nangalam.  Nearby, a Navy F/A-18C Hornet and an AF F-15E conducted shows of force to deter further enemy activity.
Near Balocan, an F/A-18C conducted a show of force and expended flares to deter enemy activity. The Hornet then strafed enemy forces trying to hide in a tree line when they continued to engage Coalition ground troops. A Coalition aircraft also conducted separate shows of force and expended flares to deter the enemy from returning.
A Navy F/A-18C supported a Coalition ground convoy with shows of force, expending flares, to discourage an enemy attack in the Musa Qala region. Later, an AF Strike Eagle performed additional shows of force to prevent enemy activity as the convoy travelled out of a village. The fighter then escorted the convoy back to base.
Joint Terminal Attack Controllers assigned to Coalition units verified the success of these missions.  In total, 67 close air support missions were flown in support of the ISAF and Afghan SF, reconstruction activities and route patrols.
Twelve AF surveillance and recon aircraft flew missions as part of ops in Afghanistan. Additionally, 2 Navy aircraft performed tactical recon.

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Dear Interested Reader,
Iraqis, ePRT and CF join forces to discuss expansion of local businesses.  US military signs over Camp Ramadi.  Bawi Canal widening project will improve infrastructure.  The first Military Hospital and Prosthetics Clinic for Wounded Warriors opens.  Walid tribe leader sponsored a CF medical assistance visit.  Weapons seized, currency confiscated from suspected IED factory, and criminals detained.  In Afghanistan, US military kills 22 militants, including 2 Taliban cmdrs.
Joanna
___________________________

Jan. 22, 2009

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

Iraqis, PRT, CF join forces to build economic momentum near Balad

BALAD - Iraqi business owners hosted CF and members of the Balad PRT Jan. 17, to discuss expansion of local businesses, using Iraqi trucking initiatives in a combined effort to boost the local economy in Balad.
The Balad Canning Factory's owner provided leaders from 3rd Sust Command (Expeditionary); 3rd Sqdrn, 4th Cav Regt;  MNF-Iraq and the Salah ad Din PRT, a tour of his business and a local market, to better understand the potential for growth in the Balad area. The ultimate objective was to forge a partnership that harnesses the 3rd ESC's logistics expertise of national and regional Iraqi trucking initiatives, to rapidly expand existing local businesses, by allowing them to market and distribute their products across Iraq.
"As you increase your ability to distribute your products, your customers will be able to come to you to purchase goods- and you can increase your production by shipping throughout Iraq," said Col. Curt Higdon, 3rd ESC asst. chief of staff G3. "I think your products can go a lot further, by increasing the trucking capability." 
Currently, the factory is operating only 4 of 12 production lines due to a lack of trucking assets and ongoing renovation. The factory has new boilers and is capable of producing bagged snacks, bottled water, and milk in addition to canned goods.  Adding a reliable trucking partnership will allow the factory to reach its potential; bringing jobs and a reliable buyer of fresh local produce to the community.
"Some of these folks don't have the means to move their goods," said Lt. Col. David M. Hodne, cmdr. of 3rd Sqdn, 4th Cav. Later this spring Hodne and his Soldiers plan to work with farmers in rural areas around Balad and the canning factory to expand markets for local agricultural products to multiple regions across Iraq.
Balad Satellite PRT Leader Joe Pinon added that investments such as those made at the canning factory are critical for building economic momentum.  Iraqis need to be educated on the importance of investing in their own economy to sustain future growth.
The independently owned and operated canning factory employs approximately 150 -200 people, but the potential exists to expand production and provide another 1,000 jobs with the right partnerships.

Mr. Ahmed Aghab, Balad Canning Factory owner, gives a tour of his business, to Dr. Frank R. Gunter, chief of economics, MNC-Iraq; Lt. Col. David M. Hodne, cmdr. of 3rd Sqdrn; members of 3rd Sust Command, and the Balad Satellite PRT.
(Army photo by Spc. Brian A. Barbour)

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U.S. military signs over Camp Ramadi

AR RAMADI - Camp Ramadi was signed over to the GoI in a memorandum of agreement (MOA) signed by IA and U.S. military officials at Camp Ali, Jan 20.
Camp Ali, which is a segment of Camp Ramadi occupied by the IA, is located about 70 miles west of Baghdad in Ar Ramadi, the provincial capital of the Al Anbar Province.  The MOA was signed by Staff Brig. Gen. Adel, the cmdr. of the First Quick Reaction Force Bde, IA, and U.S. Army Col. Ronald Kapral, cmdr. of Camp Ramadi and the 81st BCT, Washington Army National Guard.  The memorandum was a tenant agreement of sorts.  It outlined the areas that will be used by CF through 2011.  The signing over of Camp Ramadi is a step toward CF pulling out and handing complete responsibility and control back over to the Iraqis.  "Signing over of Ramadi is more symbolism than it is an actual event," said Kapral. "It shows that the U.S. military and the CF are starting to prepare to turn over and demilitarize the bases that we have been using for the past 5 years. "If you look at what has been done in the past 5 years, the IA has started taking responsibility for their actions. They're starting to support themselves. "They are proving training we have given them over the past 3 years is starting to pay off," Kapra said. "The IA wants to take charge of their country, wants their bases and wants to provide the security for the people of Iraq."
Camp Ramadi is now one of the last Coalition-only bases left in the Ar Ramadi area.  "For those of us who physically live on Camp Ramadi, it really doesn't change the normal day-to-day ops. What it does mean, from a long-term perspective, is that CF are giving back the bases and land to the Iraqis, due to their sovereignty," said Lt. Col. Kevin McMahan, the Camp Ramadi ops officer. The IA and the IP have been taking control much more, as CF have been stepping into the background. "From my personal opinion, it is the beginning of the end. We are posturing to give back bases to the Iraqis. This will allow us to take a more supportive role," said McMahan.

Staff Brig. Gen. Adel and U.S. Army Col. Ronald Kapral, sign a MOA.
(Photos by Army Sgt. Amanda Gauthier)

Staff Brig. Gen. Adel gives U.S. Army Col. Kapral a gift, symbolizing the partnership between the Iraq and CF after signing a MOA.

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Project to widen Bawi Canal begins

BAGHDAD - Iraqi SF, local leaders and MND-Baghdad Soldiers participated in a ground breaking ceremony marking the widening of the Bawi Canal, Jan.18 in the Salman Pak region, southeast of Baghdad. The ceremony is one of a series of ground breaking projects to improve the infrastructure of the Mada'in and Marquez Qadas.
Maj. Jason Joose, 2nd Bn, 6th Inf Regt, 2nd BCT, 1st Armored Div, EO, welcomed IA Brig. Gen. Hussein, cmdr., Shaykh Qais, Mada'in tribal council chairman, and other reps to the ceremony.
"Water goes from the water station to Salman Pak and flows from Wahida to Narwhan, so this benefits a large amount of people and land," said Capt. Dustin Gray, bn fire support officer.  The widening project will enable the water from the Bawi pump station to reach more people in the Salman Pak and Wahida area.
"The Bawi water pump station does not work at full capacity. Because of the size of the canal feeding water to the engines, only 1 or 2 engines can run at a time.  By widening the canal, all 4 engines can run at once," said Sadiq Hassim, project contractor.
"This is a great day for all the citizens of the Mada'in," said Joose. "Soon water will flow to arid areas due to the hard work by an Iraqi company, with local Iraqi labor, secured by Iraqi SF and the Sawah. I am pleased the CF can play a part in this brighter future."

(left to right) Iraqi Brig. Gen. Hussein, Engr Hassim, Engr Ahmran, Dir. of Energy for Water Resources, and Maj. Jason Joose, participate in a groundbreaking at the Bawi pump station.
(Army photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Wolfe)

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Multi-National Security Transition Command

MoD Opens Military Hospital & Prosthetics Clinic for Wounded Warriors       

BAGHDAD — The Iraqi Ministry of Defense (MoD) took a giant leap forward in improving health care for its wounded warriors with the grand opening of the Military Hospital and Prosthetics Clinic in Muthana, Jan. 19.
The new hospital contains 50 ward beds, an ER/trauma bay in the core building, 5 ICU beds, 3 operating rooms, and lab, pharmacy and x-ray services in attached trailers.
The hospital staff numbers 130, consisting of 4 physicians, a dentist, 85 other health professionals and 40 medical administrative support personnel.  The facility is equipped to provide care for medical conditions requiring hospitalization, emergency care, initial wound surgery, and post-op treatment.
Before 2003, there were 31 hospitals, 3,000 physicians and 10,000 other health professionals in the Iraqi military. Since that time, all military hospitals either converted to civilian Ministry of Health facilities or were closed. Many physicians fled the country during the early stages of the war, but roughly only half have returned.
“While the Iraqi military still suffers from a shortage of physicians, today’s hospital opening is one large step forward for restoring the capability of the Iraqi military medical directorate,” said Army Col. Stephen Salerno, Dir. of Health Affairs, Multi-National Security Transition Command - Iraq.  “This step will build confidence in the Iraqi Soldier that the military will take care of its own.”
Health Affairs is the Advisory team to the MoD Surgeon General’s Office for manning, training, equipping and facility development for the Iraqi Joint Forces medical dept.  Health Affairs staff members invested countless hours over the last 12 months to help prepare the Muthana Military Hospital staff for the task at hand: to open and operate the first military hospital in a new Iraq.
“Without the efforts of a determined MNSTC-I J-7 engineering team, and savvy contracting by the experts at Joint Contracting Command - Iraq, this day would not have been possible,” noted U.S. Navy Cmdr. Jeff Plummer, Health Affairs Dep. Dir.  “The Coalition has funded and built dozens of outpatient clinics and medical warehouses across Iraq.  The Muthana Military Hospital, however, was built with Iraqi funds through the Foreign Military Sales Program.  We are proud of the team effort between the MoD and MNSTC-I to complete the project and look forward to future partnerships in health care.”
The prosthetics clinic, officially named the Artificial Limb and Physical Therapy Center, is able to perform virtual casting through laser-image technology, one of the only facilities in the Middle East with this capability and the first of its kind in Iraq.

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Medical assistance visit supplements care in western Iraq, solidifies relationships

WALID - Shaykh Sa'ad, Walid tribe leader in Anbar province, sponsored a CF medical assistance visit Jan. 16 for the men, women and children of Walid and the nearby Palestinian camp.
"The 179 patients we saw during this visit ranged from newborn to geriatrics," said a CF member. "It's rewarding to do visits like these; they help provide a valuable service to the community, as well as solidify the positive relationships we've established in this region."
Visits like these provide access to basic health care. With no functioning medical facility in the village, the CF converted several rooms of an available school into examination rooms.  Some concerns were easy to address, such as how and when certain medicines should be taken, progress checks on recovery, treatment effectiveness and recommendations for the best way to treat symptoms indicative of the cold-and-flu season.
"By helping the community stay healthier, the medical assistance visit enables them to further reconstruction efforts and maintain the safety and security of their community," said the civil affairs NCO.  An example of this was in response to a request from the desperate father at the Palestinian camp, struggling to get a referral for specialized care for his son.  "Every month or month and a half we have doctor come; he see other children, they go to hospital for surgery, treatment," said the father of an 8-year-old boy with bladder exstrophy (a malformation where a child is born with the bladder on the outside of the lower abdomen).  "My boy, Mo'amen, not get to see doctor yet; he not get chance to go to hospital, to be better. Can you write me something so he see doctor too? Maybe go hospital. Maybe be better."
The CF team answered his plea to the best of their ability by cleaning and bandaging the site and the father was sent home with supplies to keep the site as clean as possible and to help alleviate some of that Mo'amen's pain and discomfort. The father also received a referral annotating to the camp's doctor that Mo'amen needs further medical attention and surgery.
"By being here and doing work like this, you are reminded of our common humanity and you hope that what we're doing here makes a difference. If nothing else, it offers hope," said a member of the CF team who has participated in 4 MedAvs prior to this one. "Seeing the kids is especially sobering; they are just beautiful and remind me of my own children."
"Medicines and treatments are obtained through the UN clinic in the local Palestinian camp to treat common medical complaints," said the CF spokesperson. "GoI assistance could lead to first-responder capability among the local IPs, and up to paramedic-level providers to treat common illnesses and minimize the impact of medical trauma injuries on the village infrastructure."
A steady flow of patients for more than 3 hours were helped during this medical assistance visit; 81 children, 59 women and 39 men all received care.

Bundled up against the January temperatures, men, women and children of Walid and the nearby Palestinian camp wait to be seen by medical professionals.

A 6-month-old boy, one of the youngest patients seen during the medical assistance visit, coos at his mother who is standing nearby.

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ISF, MND-B Soldiers confiscate weapons, detain 9 suspected criminals in Rashid district

BAGHDAD - Iraqi SF and Soldiers from Co. C, 1st Bn., 22nd Inf. Regt., 1st BCT, 4th ID discovered weapons caches and munitions, and arrested 9 suspected criminals, Jan. 19 in the Rashid district of southern Baghdad.
The combined caches consisted of a rocket launcher, 11 AK-47 assault rifles, an RPK machine gun, and
4 40 mm anti-tank rounds. 
During the same op, IA and Coalition Soldiers detained 9 suspected criminals.

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NP, CF confiscate Iraqi, U.S. currency, from suspected IED-making factory in Karadah

BAGHDAD - NP conducting combined ops with MND - Baghdad Soldiers, discovered a large amount of Iraqi and U.S. currency in a potato chip factory in Baghdad's Karadah district, Jan. 21.
The factory is suspected of being used in the production of IEDs and in funding terrorist ops. The combined forces seized more than 51 million dinar and more than $100,000. Three AK-47 assault rifles were also seized.
A combined investigation with the Baghdad Ops Command is currently ongoing.
"We will continue to work with our Iraqi SF partners to disable terrorist networks and prevent future attacks," said Lt. Col. William McRae, cmdr. of the 1st Bn, 319th Abn FAR, 3rd BCT, 82nd Abn Div.

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US Forces Afghanistan

U.S. military kills 22 militants in Afghanistan

KABUL (Reuters) – U.S.-led coalition forces killed 22 militants, including 2 Taliban cmdrs., during a series of ops in Afghanistan, the U.S. military said, Jan 20.
The raids, which involved air support, took place Jan 19. in southern and eastern Afghanistan, the U.S. military said. One op targeted a Taliban network in Kapisa province, to the northeast of Kabul. Troops killed 18 insurgents and a cmdr., who was involved in a series of attacks against Afghan and foreign forces, the U.S. military said in a statement.  Coalition troops detained 8 suspected militants during the op, it said.
In 2 separate raids, a Taliban cmdr. was killed in southern Kandahar province and 2 more insurgents were killed in neighboring Zabul province, the U.S. military said.

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Dear Interested Reader,
Humanitarian aid packages are distributed to children at the Al Karama School for girls.  Women's Initiative Seminar discusses vision for women's rights.  Abu Ghraib market is being revitalized.  Iraqi men and women learn about using micro grants to start or expand small businesses.  The Baghdad Ops Command opens new Command Info. Center.  Troops commemorate Martin Luther King, Jr.  Security improvements allow bridge to reopen in Mahmudiyah.  In Afghanistan, Gen. Petraeus secures extra supply routes for foreign forces in Afghanistan.
Joanna
________________________________

Jan. 22, 2009

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

IA, CF team up for HA drop

BAGHDAD - IA Soldiers in cooperation with 2nd Plt, Btry A, 3rd Bn, 29th FAR, 3rd BCT, 4th ID, handed out humanitarian aid (HA) packages to children attending the Al Karama School for girls in the Suleikh district of Baghdad, Jan. 19.
The patrol left early in the morning from FOB War Eagle to link up with their IA counterparts in Suleikh to conduct their first joint-HA drop during the span of the 15-month tour.  "Our mission today was to receive assistance drop packages and assist the IA in handing them out in the Suleikh area as needed," said Sgt. 1st Class Jason Obermuller, a plt sgt for 2nd Plt.  "It was our first HA drop, but I knew that the IA leadership that we had over there are real good at what they do. They have been getting on the ground and becoming more proactive," said Obermuller.
The IA and CF arrived to a school filled with curious students, but all it took was the voice of SSgt Zachary Walker saying: "We come bearing gifts. Do not worry. No problem," in broken Arabic to ease the tension of the crowd.  Minutes later, teachers began to line up the now relaxed schoolgirls, in an orderly fashion while the IA and Coalition Soldiers distributed 100 humanitarian aid packages to the students.

Students at the Al Karama School for Girls strike up a conversation.
(U.S. Army photo by Scott Flenner)

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Seminar discusses vision for women's rights

BAGHDAD - Iraqi and Coalition leaders gathered for a Women's Initiative Seminar on Camp Victory, Jan. 17 bringing together agencies from both national and provincial levels for the first time in its movement.
"I want to bring forward studies on women and human rights to be able to live in peace in the country, and bring change to some aspects of our society's perspective," said Dr. Sameera al-Mosawi, pres. of the board for the Council of Rep. of Women, Family and Children Committee. "We want people to believe in this change like America did."
The seminar sought to provide a forum where Iraqi govt and Coalition reps at all levels could openly discuss the challenges facing women in Iraq. "Increased and honest exchanges of info are vital to the development of any plan of action that addresses this seminal Iraqi societal issue," said Lt. Col. Robert Jones, MNC - Iraq deputy civil affairs officer.
Reps brought forth ideas and actual programs for projects in the future. Sameera discussed establishing research centers to study women's issues and roles in society. She felt scientific studies, both through universities and public agencies, would be a powerful tool in uniting people toward a focused vision. The main hurdle is to increase women's rights awareness among the people, Sameera said.
"Society can't grow unless women participate in culture, and society must realize this through education courses in all levels, both in rural and urban areas," she said.
Reps discussed using the help of non-govt agencies, such as small businesses and private companies, to improve education, but also by supporting financial projects.  Currently, there are 42 kindergartens in the entire country of Iraq, 20 of which are in Baghdad. Sameera said these centers are not enough to provide care and education to more than 13 million young children. Building additional centers would provide job opportunities to women as teachers directly, but also to mothers who would otherwise remain home with their youngest child.
There is also a need for women learning craftsmanship and other skills important in their present economic markets.  Ideally, both the trainers and the women learning would earn grants and financial aid while training.  "In my personal opinion, an educated woman is distinguished and stands in a better position among her community of women," said Dr. Nawal al-Samarrai, minister of state women's affairs.  "We only need to assist her to give her an opportunity," she said.
Many of the projects brought to the table went beyond achieving rights for just women. There was discussion about children, orphans, displaced families and even the disabled.  Challenges facing this effort include a lack of resources, both human and financial. Additionally, the govt does not have a unified vision, coupled with an ongoing movement to decrease national spending through ministry consolidation.  The biggest hurdle, Nawal said, is that offices for women's initiatives don't exist in provinces and cities throughout Iraq. They have been limited to inside Baghdad, isolated from the women who need it most in the communities.

Coalition, Iraqi and private reps listen in on a speech about challenges facing women.
(Army photos by Staff Sgt. Michel Sauret)

An interpreter translates a speech from Dr. Sameera al-Mosawi (right) about programs initiated to benefit women's rights.

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Abu Ghraib market in process of facelift

ABU GHRAIB - In an area synonymous with scandal, now there is renewed hope for continued progress and lasting security. The revitalization of the Abu Ghraib market is one of many essential service and public progress efforts underway throughout the Abu Ghraib Qada.  It is one of the top efforts of Iraq govt officials and CF in the area. The market campaign targets an area of Baghdad previously known for stalled progress and poor security, using an infusion of micro-grants, new projects and additional security. Cooperation between the local govt, tribal and security leaders has paved the way for success in the area.
Solar lights are being installed to allow shopping past dark and for increased security. Roads and sidewalks have been paved; awnings installed over storefronts; sewage and trash cleaned up. Two large market annexes are near completion south of the main road through the market. These will house the several hundred vendors currently occupying ramshackle booths along the busy road. Once complete, the vendors will be able to move away from the highly travelled avenue to a climate-controlled structure where they can better serve their patrons in a safer, more efficient and secure area.
"Abu Ghraib has turned the corner," said Khamel Abas, qada council chairman. "We have always been a resilient city. Better security has paved the way for progress and happiness."

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Iraqis learn about business development, opportunities at Dhi Qar conference

COB ADDER -  Jan 17, 10 Iraqi women and 7 men attended a joint seminar hosted by the Dhi Qar PRT, finance personnel from the 4th Bde, 1st Cav Div, and the members of the 287th Sust Bde Civil Military Ops cell. The purpose of the event was to help stimulate economic growth in southern Iraq by educating potential business owners on using micro-grants to start and expand small businesses.
Lt. Col Clint Moyer, 287th Sust Bde Civil Military Ops Chief, contacted Dhi Qar PRT business leader Rick Schroeder to develop the conference.  Schroeder coordinated with nearby Nasiriya's Small Business Development Center to locate potential applicants.  Wijdan  Hasan, a 40-year-old Iraqi woman from Nasiriya, said she came to learn how to develop her women's clothing store.  She said she wants to buy some land to build a house with the profit.
Tatheer Farsal, a 25-year-old soccer player and grocery store owner in Nasiriya said he hoped he would receive one of the grants.  "I would like to expand the building, offer more variety for my customers and hire more employees," Farsal said. "This program will help me grow my business." 
Once the application is certified, applicants receive the approved amount in Iraqi dinars, or the requested capital material approx. a month after applying.

Seated from left to right, Wijdan Hasan, Hana Vadef and Vajaabd Al Jabar fill out the micro-grant applications.
(Army photos by Master Sgt. Carl Mar)

Wijdan Hasan hopes to expand her Al Nasiriya clothing store with the assistance of a micro-grant.
(Army photo by Sgt. Heather Wright)

Tatheer Farsal, a Micro-Grant Conference participant, receives help with filling out his application from Sgt. Heather Wright, 287th Sust Bde.

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BOC opens new command info center in International Zone

BAGHDAD - In another step forward for Iraqi SF, the Baghdad Ops Command opened a new command info center (CIC), Jan. 19 inside Adnon Palace, in the Iraqi-controlled Int'l Zone .
The CIC will give Iraqi military planners and coordinators in Baghdad a central hub from which to plan and operate. "We needed this CIC to better facilitate combined ops planning, coordination and intel analysis at this national level of ops command," said Col. William Salter, advisor chief, Baghdad Ops Command (BOC) Advisory Team.
Iraqi Gen. al-Maliki, cmdr. of the BOC, thanked the Soldiers of the 46th Engr Bn, 926th Engr. Bde, and the BOCAT, for their efforts and hard work in helping complete this project.  Al-Maliki also thanked Maj. Gen. Jeffery Hammond, comm. gen. of MND-B and the 4th ID, for his support.  The Iraqi general's gratitude also touched Soldiers who were involved in the construction of the CIC. "It made me feel really good to know that we were appreciated," said Sgt. Marques Sweet, who serves as asst squad leader with the 46th Engr. Bn.

Iraqi Gen. al-Maliki prepares to cut the ribbon.  Maj. Gen. Jeffery Hammond (right), and Col. William Salter, advisor chief, Bagdad Ops Command Advisory Team, look on. 
(Army photos by Spc. Benjamin Crane)

Col. William Salter talks with Gen. al-Maliki during the ribbon cutting ceremony.

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Troops, civilians commemorate MLK, celebrate equal rights

BAGHDAD - Personnel across Victory Base Complex (VBC) gathered at Al Faw Palace Jan. 19, to pay tribute to one of equality's greatest founders, Martin Luther King Jr.
For VBC personnel, it was not only a time to join in worship and commemoration of America's greatest civil rights leader, but to celebrate the vast diversity on which the U.S. so heavily prides itself.  "If Martin Luther King Junior was in this rotunda today, he would see African Americans, Caucasians, Latinos, Asians and many other ethnic groups all standing side-by-side and representing the USA," said Lt. Gen. Lloyd J. Austin III, comm. gen., MNC - Iraq.  "He would see all of you working together to achieve our nation's goals."
Something else King would have witnessed is the reciting of  "I Have a Dream" by U.S. troops and civilians of an enormously diverse force that, 40 years ago, would only have been a dream.  Servicemembers also took in cultural song and dance with the recital of King's speech.
The ability to rejoice in the same equality and freedoms they've worked so hard for overseas, held special meaning for many servicemembers.  "It's a very good feeling, because despite our mission, we're still taking the time to celebrate our country's accomplishments with worship and dance, especially in a country [Iraq] where those things once weren't possible," said Sgt. 1st Class Trena Agee, NCO-in-charge, electronics maintenance shop, HSC, STB, XVIII Abn Corps.  "We [Americans] have proved that with the right focus and the right beliefs, we can accomplish anything," she said.
Celebrating equal rights is important to all Americans, but especially to troops deployed overseas.  Their ability to work as a diverse team exemplifies America's achievements.  "You're not looking at one race in the military, but a diversity of races working together as a team, looking for a common goal," said MSgt. Diane Whitener, NCO-in-charge, policies and plans, CJ1, MNC-I.

Members of the Victory Gospel Experience Choir perform during the ceremony.
(Army photos by Lee Craker)

Members of the Victory Gospel Experience Praise dance team perform for troops and civilians.

Tech Sgt. Desmond Savage, Combined Joint TF Troy, recites part of Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech.
(Army photo by Spc. Christopher M. Gaylord)

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Security improvements allow bridge to reopen in Mahmudiyah

BAGHDAD - Leaders from the IA, local Sheiks and TF Thunder, 4th Bn, 27th FAR, 2nd BCT, 1st Armored Div, participated in a bridge reopening ceremony, Jan. 18 in Mahmudiyah, south of Baghdad.  The improvement in security and reduction in sectarian violence made it possible to reopen the bridge which had separated a tribal community. The reopening also returns the area to a sense of normalcy.
Iraqi Col. Rasheed discussed how important the bridge over the Salty River is with local shaykhs, and how its opening is another step to improving the Mahmudiyah region in Iraq.  "This is one of the good things we are doing in the area. There will be more coming, including water purification and road paving. This will alleviate the suffering of the people," he said.
The Mamour tribe occupies much of the area on both sides of the bridge and was split when the bridge closed.  Relatives had to drive many kms east or west of the bridge to find another way across.  Now, a more direct route is available to visit their families. Children who traveled a long distance to receive their education, now only have a short bridge to cross on school days.
"This is one of the biggest things we can do as CF to get life back together for the Mamour Tribe," said Capt. Gregory Martens, Co A, 4th Bn, 27th FAR, 2nd BCT, 1st Armored Div, EO.
Rasheed and the shaykhs spoke of how the IA will be responsible for providing security for the bridge, and of how improved security will benefit the Iraqis living on both sides of the Salty River.  "The bridge opening today symbolizes the barriers we all work together to break down, each towards a brighter future for Iraq," said Maj. Eric Savickas, 4th Bn EO.

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IA, SoI, INP, MND-B Soldiers seize weapons caches throughout Baghdad

BAGHDAD - IA Soldiers, Iraqi NP, SoI, and Soldiers from Co C, 1st Bn, 21st Inf Regt, 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID, seized weapons caches throughout Baghdad, Jan. 19.  The combined weapons caches included 21 57 mm projectiles, a 60 mm mortar, 6 120 mm high explosive mortar, 6 82 mm mortars, 25 pounds of urea nitrate, 25 pounds of sulfur powder and diesel fuel, 2 220 pound bombs, 31 130 mm artillery rounds, a 155 mm artillery round, 4 120 mm mortar rounds, 4 125 mm rounds, 2 122 mm rounds, 2 70 mm rockets, 4 hand grenades, 11 feet of detonation cord, and a launcher.

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 US Forces Afghanistan    

Top US general says extra supply routes for foreign forces secured in Afghanistan

US Gen. David Petraeus (L) and Pakistani PM Yousuf Raza Gilani

ISLAMABAD:   Gen. David Petraeus, the top US cmdr. for southwest Asia and a key advocate of a US troop surge in Afghanistan, said deals involving Central Asian states and Russia were in place for routes into the insurgency-racked country.
"It is very important, as we increase effort in Afghanistan, that we have multiple routes that go into the country," said Petraeus after talks with the Pakistani government in Islamabad, a key US ally in the "war on terror".  Petraeus said he had visited Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan to reach agreements.  "There have been agreements reached, and there are transit lines now, and transit agreements for commercial goods and services in particular, that include several countries in the Central Asian states and also Russia," he said.
The US military said last month it would send reinforcements of 20,000 to 30,000 troops to Afghanistan, where about 70,000 int'l. troops are fighting alongside Afghan SF against an extremist insurgency.
The road from Peshawar to the Torkham border crossing with Afghanistan passes through lawless tribal areas, where extremists have sought refuge, since the hardline Taliban regime in Kabul was ousted in the 2001 US-led invasion.
Pakistan has come under heightened Western pressure to take greater action against Islamist extremists in the country, where more than 1,500 people have been killed in militant attacks in the last 17 months.  Pakistani troops backed by war planes and helicopter gunships killed 60 militants in 24 hours, a paramilitary official said, in an offensive against insurgents in Mohmand, an extremist stronghold near the Afghan border.
Petraeus, lauded for turning round a Sunni insurgency in Iraq with a 30,000 troop "surge", wants a regional approach to resolving the war in Afghanistan.

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Dear Interested Reader,
RCT 8 relieved RCT at a ceremony at Camp Ripper, while the 3rd ACR transferred authority to the 3rd HBCT, 1st Cav Div at FOB Marez.  IA distribute food and blankets, spreading good will.  IA soldiers complete their Unit Set Fielding program, trained by the 82nd FAR.  Emergency room and Youth Center opens in Seddah.  Iraqi doctors and US Army SF give Iraqi boy a chance to walk again.  An Afghan Women Lawyers Training Conference is hosted by the US Dept of State's Public-Private Partnership for Justice Reform in Afghanistan.
Joanna
___________________________

Jan. 21, 2009

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

Regimental Combat Team 5 turns over with RCT 8

AL ASAD AIR BASE - RCT 8 relieved RCT 5 at a ceremony at Camp Ripper, Jan. 19. "The only thing that changes today are the names and faces; the mutual respect will still be here; the dedication to accomplish the mission will still be here; the pride and the skill of a great regiment will still be here," said Maj. Gen. Richard P. Mills, ground combat element cmdr. for I Marine Expeditionary Force Forward.
"The most rewarding part of our deployment had been working hand and hand with our Iraqi brethren, as they take their country to the greatly deserved position as a prominent nation on the world's stage," said Col. Patrick J. Malay, the comm. officer of RCT-5.
When RCT-5 arrived in January 2008, attacks hovered around 16 per week and Marine battle positions through the area of op numbered in the fifties.  Attacks are now below 2 per week and the battle positions, as part of a campaign to reduce the CF footprint, have shrunk to approx. 10.
"We will continue to empower the people and leadership of western al-Anbar, to develop and sustain the transparent, economic, governance, legal, and society capability and capacity, in order to defeat the insurgency and facilitate long-term regional stability and development," said Col. John K. Love, the comm. officer of RCT-8.
RCT-8 will work in partnership with the ePRT, providing support to the region's Iraqi SF and the local govt in order to create a stable, peaceful and prosperous Iraq.  Additionally, RCT-8 will provide security overwatch for the Iraqi SF.

Col. John K. Love (center) and Sgt. Maj. Rudy Resto, regimental sgt maj, RCT-8, assume control of CF ops in western al-Anbar province.
(Marine Corps photograph by Sgt. M. Trent Lowry)

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38th IA Bde. provides protection, life support

FOB GARRY OWEN - IA Soldiers went door-to-door distributing food and blankets to citizens in Majar al Kabir on the southeastern Iraqi border, Jan. 12.
"I'm from this neighborhood and work as an Iraqi policeman," said Ali al Gharanii. "What the U.S. and Iraqi SF do is good; it is good to help our poor people, and I hope they will continue to help. These things make the area more safe and secure."
The IA Soldiers visited the community to spread goodwill and encourage cooperation from the citizens in the Maysan province.  At the end of the day, when they handed the last of the blankets and boxes of food to the local residents, Akil Chalub, an IA 1st sgt who helped lead and direct the humanitarian mission, reflected on the efforts of his Soldiers. "Today, with the Americans by our side, we did good work," said Chalub. "We helped improve security here. I believe when the children see this work, it will change their thoughts about Iraqi and U.S. forces, and they will not listen to the people who do not like us.  As an Iraqi citizen, I am thankful for the work we do together for my country."

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Fort Hood units transfer authority during at FOB Marez

MOSUL - The 3rd Armored Cav Regt cased its colors and handed over the reins of Ninawa province to the 3rd HBCT, 1st Cav Div, during a Transfer of Authority ceremony on FOB Marez, Jan. 19.
"Today marks the formal passing of responsibility of Ninawa province from the Brave Rifles to the Greywolves," said Col. Michael Bills, 3rd ACR cmdr. "More importantly, it represents the continued commitment and partnership the CF have with the Provincial Govt, the Iraq SF, and the Iraqi People."
During the deployment, the 3rd ACR drastically improved the security, Bills said. They conducted more than 930 company-level ops and more than 27,600 combat patrols. They cleared more than 64,800 miles of roads and found and reduced more than 1,000 IEDs and 35 vehicle-borne IEDs. The Soldiers and Iraqi SF also recruited more than 35,000 Iraqis to join their military and police forces.  "There's still much more work to be done, and with the great team from the Tropic Lightning Div and the Greywolf Bde, your future is very bright with the continued partnership and commitment to the citizens of Ninawa province," he said.
As the 3rd HBCT assumes control of the area of ops, Col. Gary Volesky, 3rd HBCT cmdr., said he is aware of the challenges they face and the standard for success the Brave Rifles have set.  "The Greywolf Bde is proud to replace our teammates from the 3rd ACR in Ninawa province," he said. "The significant decrease in violence seen during the conduct of their op is a testament to the outstanding performance of Col. Mike Bills' Troopers."

Col. Michael Bills (left) and Command Sgt. Maj. William Burns, cmdr. and command sgtt maj for the 3rd ARC, case the regimental colors.
(Army photos by Sgt. Matthew Boyd)

Col. Gary Volesky and Command Sgt. Maj. James Pippen, cmdr. and command sgt maj for the 3rd HBCT, 1st Cav Div, uncase their brigade colors.

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IA receives combat gear, conducts training at Besmaya Range

COB ADDER - The 41st Bde, 10th IA Div celebrated the completion of their Unit Set Fielding program and month-long training during a graduation ceremony at the Besmaya Range Complex, Jan. 14.
U.S. Soldiers, assigned to the 5th Bn, 82nd FAR, 4th BCT, 1st Cav Div., have partnered with the 41st IA Brigade since early October 2008. They trained the Iraqi Soldiers on the new tactical equipment and combat gear prior to the fielding process.
"They are the best IA unit to have come through USF," said Lt. Col. Timothy Renshaw, the senior advisor of the Besmaya Range Complex.
At the month's end, the troopers completed AK-47 qualification exercises, military ops in urban terrain courses, IED ID, awareness training and combat lifesaver training among other classes.

IA Soldiers sign pledges of loyalty to their unit and country, with Iraqi Brig. Gen. Muhammad and Lt. Col. Timothy Daugherty, cmdr. of the 5th Bn at the Besmaya Range Complex.
(Army photo by 2nd Lt. Justin Bishop)

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ISF, MND-B Soldiers discover weapons cache

BAGHDAD - Iraqi SF partnered with Soldiers from Co C and D, 1st Bn, 505th PIR, attached to the 1st BCT, 4th ID, discovered 3 weapons caches and unexploded ordnance, and confiscated weapons Jan. 18, in Baghdad's the Rashid district of southern Baghdad. 
The combined caches included 25 60 mm mortar rounds, 10 AK-47 assault rifles, and a 155 mm artillery round.
In other areas of Baghdad that day, at approx. 10:30 a.m., Soldiers from Btry B, 1st Bn, 319th FAR, attached to Co D, 1st Bn, 66th Armor Regt, serving with 3rd BCT, 82nd Abn Div, confiscated weapons, munitions and military issued equipment, while on patrol in the Karadah district of southeast Baghdad. Confiscated items included 6 AK-47s, 11 AK-47 mags, an assault rifle and a sub machine gun.  Personal protection systems were also collected, including 60 flak vests, 10 small-arms protection plates, 11 helmets, several IA and IP uniforms, 14 81 mm mortars, 3 rocket rails, a bag of explosives and an anti-tank mine.

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ERU, MND-B Soldiers prepare for elections

BAGHDAD - 

Lt. Col. Saad, Kindi ERU, and 1st Lt. David Clayton, plt leader, Btry A, 4th Bn, 42nd FAR, attached to the 2nd HBCT, 1st ID, review the location of a future voting site in Baghdad's Karkh district, Jan. 16.  School houses will be used as voting facilities for upcoming elections.
(Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Robert Whelan)

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Emergency room, youth center opens in Seddah

SEDDAH - Community members and CF participated in a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the grand opening of a new emergency room and youth center in Seddah, Jan. 13.
The facilities, built solely with GoI funds, and by Iraqi contractors, serve as an accomplishment and milestone for the Seddah community and the people of Iraq.
According to Ali Alshamrie, the Mayor of Mussayib, the Soldiers from Co B, 1st Bn, 2nd Inf Regt were invited to the opening out of respect from the Seddah community, and to show how Iraq and its people are capable of standing on their own and rebuilding their country.
The emergency room renovations included new bathrooms, additional patient rooms, an x-ray room and sanitary stations throughout the building. It also covered the cost of beds and necessary equipment needed to treat patients.
The youth center renovated through this project will now serve as a safe place for children of the community; where they can go and participate in community events and activities.  "We got this project done with the help of our local govt, the Seddah District and the Babil Govt," said Alshamrie. "But we don't want to forget our American brothers who helped make all this possible for us."
The Soldiers of 1st Bn., 2nd Inf. Regt. monitored and helped facilitate the project. For the most part, they watched as the people of Iraq and their govt took control and accomplished the mission.

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Iraqi doctors, US Army SF give Iraqi boy chance to walk again

TAJI - A 13 year-old boy from a remote area in southeast Iraq will soon learn how to walk again after using crutches for more than 5 years, with the help of Iraqi doctors and U.S. Army SF.
A SF team medic met the boy, named Abbas, in June during a medical assistance visit to the region. Abbas' right leg was broken during a vehicle accident.  At the time of the accident, he was treated but the device holding the bones in place was removed too soon and the bones never fused. "The wound itself healed, but the bones never grew back together," an SF surgeon said. "While he can still move his toes and foot, he's unable to put weight on the leg because the bones never healed."
The SF team coordinated a trip to get x-rays and receive further consultations to see what options the family had for surgery and recovery.  "The procedure to fix his leg is complicated" said the SF surgeon. "Especially because he is still growing, and the leg has been broken for 5 years."
The SF team contacted the medical staff in Sulaymaniyah, Iraq, to assist in locating a surgeon to do the procedure. After a review of Abbas' condition, the doctors agreed to accept the case and perform the surgery.  Abbas and a family member were transported to a hospital in Sulaymaniyah where doctors repaired the leg.  "The Kurdish people played an integral part in this op," said an SF ops officer. "They volunteered their facility, their time and their advanced medical skills.  Most importantly, they showed compassion toward a fellow Iraqi child that was in need of their help."
 "Now it's a waiting game for Abbas," said the SF medic. "The surgery went well and in a few days Abbas' stitches will come out, but there is still a long way to go."  As for Abbas and his family, they are still excited that the surgery took place.  "I'm very excited because soon I will be able to move around without help," said Abbas. "I will be able to return to school and play like the other children."

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U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE

January 7, 2009 

Partnership for Justice Reform in Afghanistan Hosts Afghan Women Lawyers Training Conference

The U.S. Dept of State’s Public-Private Partnership for Justice Reform in Afghanistan, working in close collaboration with the American legal community, will host a group of 14 prominent Afghan women judges, prosecutors, and defense attorneys in Riverside, California and Washington, DC, from January 9-24.  Under the leadership of the former Lt Gov of Massachusetts, Dr. Kerry Healey, and U.S. District Judge Stephen G. Larson of the Central District of California, the women will participate in 2 weeks of intensive legal seminars, roundtable events, and consultations with senior officials from the State of California and the U.S. Govt, including former Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor.  During these sessions, the women will explore current topics in the Afghan and American legal systems, legal decision-making and mediation, domestic violence, family mental health, and narcotics law, while gaining hands-on exposure to the American judicial system. 
Launched by Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice in Dec. 2007, the Public-Private Partnership has received pledges exceeding $1.3 million in monetary and in-kind contributions.  The Public-Private Partnership is co-chaired by David T. Johnson, Asst. Secretary of State for Int'l Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, Robert C. O’Brien, a partner at Arent Fox LLP, and former U.S. Alternate Rep to the UN.

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Dear Interested Reader,
Sadr City opens family park, and a sports complex named after Lt. Col. Brian Eifler.  IP station is the first to be validated in Diyala.  Some really interesting stories first takes us to the Marines from the 26th Marine Expeditionary unit, who are learning about a new communication tool; then how the Tactical Unmanned Aerial Vehicles plt, 2nd BCT, 4th ID carries on their important mission; and Brig. Gen Talley spoke at Baghdad's first ever environmental symposium.  With improved security, locals are taking pride in their communities.  Suspected sniper team, and other criminals detained, while weapons are seized.  In Afghanistan, Kajaki Dam brings more power to the people of southern Afghan.
Joanna
_________________________

Jan. 20, 2009

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

Sadr City opens family park, sports complex

BAGHDAD - Local govt leaders gathered to open the Faoo Family Park and the Regular 6 Sports Complex in Northeast Baghdad, Jan. 17. The facilities were once used by criminals to launch attacks against the Int'l Zone.
"This park is for all the people to use it and all the families inside Sadr City," said Shaykh Shahan, who runs the public workers in the Sadr City district. "It's a joint venture between the GoI, all the Shaykhs, and the support of the U.S. Army and U.S. Govt."
"We can see the happiness in the eyes of the children. We are proud of our job and we are proud to be a part of this team," said Buad Sadr, the senior engr in charge of refurbishing the park and sports complex.  The park,  boasts swing sets, a playground, benches and other childhood leisure activities.  The sports complex, which hosted its first event moments after the ceremonial ribbon was cut, is a place where future Iraqi National Team hopefuls will hone their skills on the soccer field, weight room and wrestling room.

Hassan Shama (center) the Sadr City District Advisory Council chairman, cuts the ceremonial ribbon to open the Regular 6 Sports Complex. The complex, is named after Lt. Col. Brian Eifler, cmdr. of TF 1-6, which is currently attached to 3rd BCT, 4th ID.
(Army photo by Sgt. Zach Mott)

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Huwadyr IP station first validated in Diyala

HUWADYR - Brig. Gen. Huwadyr, Dep. IP Chief; Capt. Bassim, Huwadyr station captain; a local shaykh and CF, held a ceremony to validate the Huwadyr IP station, Jan. 13. The Huwadyr station is the first in Diyala province to meet security criteria established by the GoI and CF.
"We are holding this ceremony to validate the Huwadyr IP station," said Capt. Terry Brown, Charlie Co, 1st Bn, 5th Inf Regt, 1st Stryker BCT, 25th ID cmdr. "They have proven they are fully capable of securing their area of ops on their own without CF assistance.  The validation criteria include successful completion of selected administrative tasks, patrolling techniques, and handling of detainees, as well as the ability to secure the area.
"We do a lot of joint patrols with the IPs and 202nd MP Co., and doing this allows us to ensure the IPs stay on track toward fulfilling the set criteria, said Brown.  "We only want to see the IPs succeed. I'm very grateful that we were able to hold this event. It lets us know we're making significant strides forward in assisting the ISF in taking control of their area.  I see a bright future for Huwadyr."
Capt. Shannon Newell, cmdr., 202nd MP Co, 7-28 MP Bn, on speaking to the crowd, "We would like to say thank you for all your hard work and the dedication you have made to ensure Huwadyr is a safer place.  This is an important day. You are the first to be validated in the Diyala province and I would hope other IP stations will follow suit. Keep up the good work."

Capt. Shannon Newell poses with Capt. Bassim, after presenting his station with a certificate of appreciation.
(Army photo by Spc. Opal Vaughn)

Brig. Gen. Fadan, Huwadyr Dep. IP Chief; Capt. Bassim; a local shaykh, and SSgt. Robert Everly, a squad leader with 202nd MP Co, cut a ceremonial cake.

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Blackanthem Military News

26th MEU communicators shoot for the sky

By GySgt Bryce Piper

MSgt Jake Martinez shows the SkySat payload to 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit Command Office Col. Mark Desens, and 26th MEU Ops Officer Lt. Col. Walter Sopp, as the SkySat balloon inflates behind them. SkySat could one day help Marines in the field with handheld radios communicate as far as 500 miles, regardless of terrain. 26th MEU Marines learned about the system Jan. 12 and got hands-on with the gear during the next several days.
(Official USMC photos by Gy. Sgt. Bryce Piper)

CAMP BUEHRING, Kuwait -  20 Marines from the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit took an opportunity here this week to learn about a new tool to extend the range of deployed communications.  The Combat SkySat High Altitude Operational Payload system could allow Marines in the near future to extend the range of some communications by more than 100 times, said Arizona Air National Guard Detachment 2 Cmdr. Lt. Col. Patty Tuttle. The Marines attended a class explaining the system Jan. 12, and got hands-on with it during the next several days.
SkySat merges modern high-tech communications equipment with technology hundreds of years old: balloons. By floating relay equipment as high as 80,000 feet on a helium balloon, SkySat can extend the range of military radios, like the handheld PRC-148 from a traditional 3 to 4 miles up to 500 miles.  By elevating the system by balloon, SkySat also allows communicators to overcome terrain features like mountains and valleys, by changing the operator's line of sight, which could be of particular benefit to Marines in rough terrain like Afghanistan, said Tuttle.  "This is such a tactical mission enabler," she said. "It can really add to a cmdr's abilities. It can help troops on the ground, it can help pilots in the air – anyone who needs communications. We're excited to get it out and with the Marines and get it deployed," she said.
Given the ranges SkySat makes possible, communications are little affected by wind direction, according to Tuttle. Still, the system can be somewhat directed with the use of vents and ballast. It's also portable; the entire system is mobile and fits in the bed of a pickup truck, allowing cmdrs. to extend communications at will in almost any area.
Skysat's equipment payload is expendable, according to Tuttle. After use, controllers on the ground command the balloon to release the communications equipment, which floats to the ground by parachute. No secret or classified equipment is housed in the payload, so it doesn't have to be recovered after deployment. If it is recovered, it can be sent back to the manufacturer to be reset for future use.
Currently the system is used only by the Air Force.  But the tactical benefits were not overlooked by 26th MEU leaders.

MSgt. Jake Martinez and Tech. Sgt. Craig Armstrong release the SkySat High Altitude Operational Payload system, while leaders from the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit observe the launch. 

Lt. Col. Patty Tuttle and Tech. Sgt. Craig Armstrong release the SkySat High Altitude Operational Payload system while leaders from the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit observe the launch.

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Blackanthem Military news

2nd STB Soldiers keep TUAVs flying

By Capt. Andrew Camp

Pfc. Matthew Purcell, Shadow air vehicle operator, completes the final preflight inspection of an RQ-7B Shadow TUAV before takeoff. 
(Photo by Staff Capt. Andrew Camp)

FOB KALSU - Tactical Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (TUAV) are inextricably linked with Army ops in Iraq and Afghanistan.  Although relatively new additions to the Army inventory, TUAVs provide cmdrs. with real-time video to observe targets and determine the position and movements of enemy units on the battlefield.
The TUAV Plt, Co A, 2nd Special Troops Bn, 2nd BCT, 4th ID, operates the RQ-7B Shadow TUAV in support of Coalition and Iraqi SF in Najaf and Qadisiyah provinces.
Since their arrival in September, the plt. has flown over 240 missions in support of not only the 2BCT Soldiers, but also IA and IP units.
"Supporting the ISF is one of our most important missions," said Sgt. 1st Class Charles Trayer, TUAV plt sgt. Shadow ops are conducted from an airfield established by the same platoon in early 2006, and named after their co. 1st sgt who was killed in an IED attack.  "It was good to see that the other units using Bobby Mendez Army Airfield had maintained the memorial," said Trayer.  "Although very few of us now assigned to the platoon knew 1st Sgt. Mendez, it's a fitting tribute that Shadows are still flying from the same site he helped to establish 3 years ago," he added.
All Shadow operators are enlisted Soldiers, most of whom are in their first 2 years of military service. "Although operated remotely, the Shadow is still an aircraft and the operators are pilots in every sense of the word," said Sgt. Andrew Dickenson, TUAV plt. instructor and operator. "That's an incredible responsibility for a young Soldier - to be in control of a US Army aircraft in combat."

Sgt. 1st Class Charles Trayer poses at the memorial plaque dedicating Bobby Mendez Army Airfield. (Photo by Staff Capt. Andrew Camp)

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Eng. Bde. Cmdr. speaks at Baghdad's first environmental symposium

BAGHDAD - Brig. Gen. Jeffrey Talley, the cmdr. of the 926th Engr Bde, spoke at Baghdad's first environmental symposium in the Mansour Hotel Jan. 12, and provided the attendees an overview of the environmental challenges and possible solutions surrounding Baghdad.
Some of the environmental problems discussed during the conference included landfills, sewage, water and air pollution, in addition to medical and industrial waste.  Talley said some of the main environmental challenges in Baghdad include the aging and war damaged infrastructure in addition to the tremendous urban growth.
"As we progress to restore peace, we have to balance the environmental concerns of land/soil, water, air, sediment and trash," said Talley. "With the population of Baghdad reaching 8 million, the key to sustaining life is balance.  We need to act locally but think globally."    
Talley concluded his briefing with recommended solutions on the road to environmental recovery. "The national energy policy should be linked to the environmental policy and public education," said Talley, "Involvement is important to successful environmental programs; pollution prevention and waste minimization plans need to be initiated. Water issues require international cooperation, and environmental solutions should focus first on human health and then ecology."

Brig. Gen. Jeffrey Talley speaks to the gathered attendees.
(Army photo by Patricia Ryan)

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SF and MND-B Soldiers seize weapons, detain suspected criminals in Baghdad

BAGHDAD - Jan. 17, ISF soldiers partnered with 1st Bn, 22nd Inf Regt, 1st BCT, 4th ID, in combined weapons caches confiscated 27 AK-47 assault rifles, 3 rifles, 2 sniper rifles, and an MP-5 machine gun.
IA soldiers along with Soldiers of 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID, confiscated 47 flares and AK-47 rounds.
IP detained 3 suspected criminals in Adhamiyah. The 3 are believed to be involved in weapons smuggling and attacks. Two AK-47 rifles, 3 magazines, a pistol, and 8 cell phones were confiscated during the arrest.
IP in Radwaniyah discovered a weapons cache consisting of 10 120 mm rounds, a 155 mm round, and a 57 mm projectile.

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ISF captures suspected sniper team in northeast Baghdad

UR - Iraqi SF thwarted an attack on a U.S. military patrol in northeast Baghdad, Jan. 17.  Elements of the 1st NP Div, and 42nd Bde, 11th IA Div, worked together to detain a suspected sniper team that was targeting American forces on patrol in the Haay Ur neighborhood of northeast Baghdad.
"The actions of our ISF partners saved at least one, and probably several, U.S. Soldiers lives," said Col. John Hort, 3rd BCT, 4th ID, cmdr. "It's events like these that show me that our 15 months in Iraq have not been in vain.
Three men were arrested during the event.  Items confiscated included a van that was being used to move the team around, as well as a base of ops from which to conduct the attack, a video camera, a modified sniper rifle, a canvas concealment device, and a wooden stand used as a support inside the vehicle.

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'Good Citizens' clean-up streets of Abu T'shir

FOB FALCON - Local Iraqi citizens initiated clean-up efforts in the communities of Abu T'shir, Hadar and Saha, sweeping up trash and debris and making basic repairs to sidewalks in the neighborhoods of southern Baghdad's Rashid district, during the month of January.
Soldiers of the 1st BCT, 4th ID, aided Iraqi SF in providing security for a portion of the clean up, Jan. 17.  The Iraqis are taking charge repairing roads, picking up trash and cleaning up their neighborhoods, said Staff Sgt. Arto Brown, a squad leader, assigned to Troop C, 7th Sqdrn, 10th Cav Regt.  "I think it is a good thing for the country, getting the country back up on its feet," Brown said. "The people are generally happy ... and have pride in their community. They want to keep it clean and others will start following suit."  Security is good, and the Iraqi people are doing a good job working together to call in tips, helping ISF and CF to find weapons caches, roadside bombs and criminals, said Brown.

SSgt. Arto Brown provides security Jan. 17, for Iraqi citizens participating in local community projects. (Army Photos by Sgt. 1st Class Brent Williams)

 Spc. Victor Pulido-Gamez, a cavalry scout assigned to Troop C, displays his non-lethal rounds for his M203 Grenade Launcher attached to his M4 carbine.

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US Forces Afghanistan

Kajaki Dam brings more power to the people of southern Afghanistan

Kandahar province

A convoy of 4,000 coalition troops spent one week fighting off insurgent attacks to clear the way for the delivery of a powerful new turbine to the Kajaki Dam in southern Afghanistan on September 2, 2008.
The new turbine, plus the refurbishing of a second turbine, should triple the reliable electric power output from 16.5 megawatts to 51 megawatts to Kajaki, Lashkar Gah, and Kandahar.  Other work on the dam will provide water for homes, agriculture, and industry for the 1.5 million people in the Helmand River Valley, improving livelihoods and spurring economic growth.
The Kajaki Dam was first constructed by USAID during the 1950s and 2 turbines were installed in the 1970s. The delivery of this third turbine was the latest move by USAID to rejuvenate a major US assistance project to supply 6% of Afghanistan’s electrical power.
The implementation would not have been possible without the assistance of Afghan National SF and ISAF troops, including the UK, US, Canada, Denmark and Australia, providing security to the convoy.  Part of the national priority program in Afghanistan is aimed at providing electricity sufficient for residents, industries and commerce through harnessing the energy of water.  Kajaki is one element of the overall plan to develop the Helmand Valley and a crucial part of the reconstruction efforts for Afghanistan.
Functioning electrical and water supplies will enable farmers to produce higher yields, will improve the services provided by community health facilities, and will provide children light by which to read and learn.

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Dear Interested Reader,
1st BCT leaders attend Radwaniyah Farmer's Building "ground breaking" ceremony, where a plaque will honor Maj. Gen Jeffery Hammond, so that Iraqis can appreciate the contributions of Americans.  SoI celebrate their success with a parade in Multaka.  Iraqi NP are ready to provide election security in Basra, while also trying to combat winter chill for its residents.  Abu Ghraib Hospital is a symbol of success and progress.  In Tallil IA transportation and maintenance specialists graduate, and Intel and Military Security School graduates 58 instructors in Taji.  In Afghanistan, every Friday the Nuristan PRT holds a "shoe-drive" at FOB Kalagush, thanks to the efforts of 1st Sgt. Terry Pittman.
Joanna
_________________________________

Jan. 19, 2009

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

1st BCT leaders attend Radwaniyah Farmer's Building 'ground breaking' ceremony

BAGHDAD - For thousands of years, farmers in Ma Baynaa Al-Nahreen, the Land Between the Two Rivers, worked the soil to produce crops for their livelihood and sustain their existence.  Now in the 21st Century, new technology and agriculture practices can increase the farmer's crop yields to make the harvest more productive and to earn the farmers more money for their produce.
Senior leaders from the 1st BCT, 4th ID, attended the Radwaniyah Farmer's Co-op Building "ground-breaking" ceremony with their Iraqi SF partners Jan. 14, to mark the beginning of the project designed to assist the local farmers with new technologies in southwestern Baghdad.
The benefits of a farmer's cooperation assn will affect the future of this area, said Raad Hanna, the 1st BCT ePRT's agricultural advisor.  The assn is working to bring 100 greenhouses and 20 tractors, plus farm implements, to assist the farmers in Radwaniyah and the surrounding area, explained Raad.  "It'll make a difference in the whole area," he said. "There will be training for the farmers to learn how to use the greenhouses and make them productive."
Shaykh Ali Alash, the chairman of the Ma Baynaa Al-Nahreen Farmer's Cooperation Assn, explained that 750 farmers in the Radwaniyah area of southwestern Baghdad joined the org.
During the ceremony, Brig. Gen. al-Talall, cmdr., 5th Bde, 2nd NP Div, thanked everyone for coming to the ceremony. "We thank CF for their contribution to this project, said Faiswi.  "The building of Iraq began after the security situation improved in the area due to the cooperation of everybody."
After the ceremony, Shaykh al-Jabour, the Tribal Support Council chairman, told senior MND-B leaders about the plaque he erected.  "I put Maj. Gen. Jeffery Hammond's name on the plaque to show the people how much the Americans have done to help us."
Col. Ted Martin, cmdr., 1st BCT, 4th ID, spoke with al-Jabour, and several shaykhs after the ceremony.  "You stood by us in the bad days; we'll stand by you now," said Martin.

Lt. Col. Troy Smith, cmdr., 7th Sqdrn, 10th Cav Regt, 1st BCT, 4th ID, shakes hands with Col. Hasan, Radwaniyah IP chief, before the ceremony.
(Army photos by Maj. Dave Olson)

Shaykh al-Jabour shakes hands with Col. Ted Martin.

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Sons of Iraq celebrate with parade in Multaka

FOB - More than 400 members of the Multaka SoI marched in front of a large audience of local political leaders, Iraqi SF officials and U.S. military cmdrs., during a parade and ceremony, Jan. 15.
"This event was held in honor of the Multaka SoI's 18 months in service, and to show gratitude toward the GoI and the CF for their support in enabling the local people to secure their neighborhoods," said Shaykh Abu-Saif, Multaka SoI leader.
"We've been rehearsing for this ceremony for 15 days," said Capt. Ali Mahmood, Multaka SoI plt leader. "This is very important because it has been almost a year and a half since SoI was established in this area."
"This is the day when the SoI took charge and decided that they were no longer going to stand for living in fear, that they would take the fight to the enemy, and that's exactly what they've done," said Lt. Col. David Snodgrass, 3rd IBCT, 25th ID dep. cmdr. "This area has prospered tremendously in the last 18 months."

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National police: ready to provide election security

BASRA - Polling stations will be secured and ready for larger voter turnouts for the Jan. 31 elections in Basra according to NP officials, Jan. 14.  IA will be providing security for 10 schools serving as election sites in the As Sarraji and Al Amtahiya neighborhoods.
"Everyone will be free to vote," said Lt. Col. Awda, the EO for the NP's 1st Bn, Basra Bde., through a translator.
Awda said that smaller sites are expecting 2,500 - 3,000 voters, and main sites are expecting up to 10,000 voters. He said this is an increase from previous elections, which he attributes to the city being safer.

Election poll workers review the polling-station-worker lists at an election site in the Al Amtahiya neighborhood of Basra, Jan. 14.
(Army photo by Staff Sgt. Aaron Thacker)

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National Police provide aid to community

BASRA - The winter chill was broken for some Iraqis as a company of Iraqi NP distributed blankets, heaters, flashlights and other items to Basra residents today.
This is one of several humanitarian events the NP have provided in addition to their regular security mission over the 9 months they have been here.  Iraqi NP Lt. Col. Awda, EO for 1st bn, said they have built soccer fields, volleyball courts, basketball courts, painted and plastered schools and refurbished a Christian cemetery.
"People were throwing their trash over the walls and it was becoming a dump," said Capt. Jason Rose, intel officer for the NP Transition Team.  "It was this NP team that identified the problem and initiated the clean up."
Rose's unit consists of a small platoon that lives and works with the NP at Basra Palace.  His team serves as advisors who help with training, planning and security for the bn.
"We want all of the people in Basra to know that they are safe to go to school, shop, go to the hospital and sleep at night without fear of being kidnapped," Awda said. "We have accomplished that in our sector."

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Abu Ghraib Hospital symbol of success, progress

ABU GHRAIB - The once war-ravished Abu Ghraib Hospital, west of Baghdad, is slowly but surely getting new life.  What was once one crumbling building is now a sprawling complex, boasting new equipment to better care for the hundreds of thousands of people who live in the city.
"The most difficult part of this whole op was getting the different funding orgs together to synchronize their efforts," said Keith Parker, senior public health advisor for the ePRT, assigned to 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID.
The man behind the coordination of all the orgs was Dr Naja Nouri, the hospital's director.  Since the beginning of the projects, Nouri has overseen the progress to ensure each was completed in a timely manner and with the quality he said he expects from a hospital.
Parker stressed the importance of Nouri's oversight, as well as regular inspections by the Minister of Health engrs. "The MoH engineers are really great," he said. "They increase the quality of work and really ensure the work is done to proper standards."  Parker said he hopes this hospital's success is a model for other hospitals in the area.  "Change is difficult," he said, "but the process is slowly shifting to the right people at the right levels of govt. This is what needs to happen to slowly take the U.S. out of the picture. This is their time to shine."

Nurses chat at the front desk of the refurbished maternity ward.
(Army photos by Sgt. 1st Class Christina Bhatti)

Patients and visitors use the newly refurbished walkway on their way inside.

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

IA transportation, maintenance specialists graduate (Tallil)     

By U.S. Army Maj. Danl Connelly

TALLIL – IA Soldiers graduated Jan. 14 from specialty skills training at Camp Ur.  The graduating class consisted of 102 IA Soldiers who trained in 2 courses designed to help them excel in their specific occupational specialty – transportation or maintenance - at the Regional Training Center.
The top student in the maintenance course, IA Warrant Officer Ali, who rejoined the Iraqi Army in 2005, said, “The students in this course were a mix of young and older Soldiers.  For me, it was refresher training, but the instructors were good and I learned some new things.  I liked working on vehicles more than being in the classroom.”

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

Intelligence and Military Security School graduates 58 instructors (Taji)       

TAJI— The Intel and Military Security School graduated 58 newly-trained Iraqi intel instructors in a ceremony conducted Jan. 17.  The graduates successfully completed the 9-day Basic Instructor Training Course modeled after a course taught to new instructors at the U.S. Army Intel School at Fort Huachuca, Ariz. 
Eight U.S. instructors conducted the training sponsored by Multi-National Security Transition Command – Iraq’s Intel Transition Team.  Three of the instructors, including Mr. Daniel Sinnard, the Army BITC mgr, deployed from Fort Huachuca to conduct the training.  “This program is designed to teach training strategies and techniques to prepare instructors to successfully and effectively train others,” said Sinnard.  “The Iraqis we trained were exceptional, on par with instructors we train at Fort Huachuca.”
The INTEL TT provided 5 of the instructors, and the course’s interpreters/translators.  Mr. Steve Bond, Director of the INTEL TT, stated, “Expanding the number of Iraqi instructors is part of our overall plan to expand the Iraqi SF’ intel training base.  Just last month we opened new classrooms and billets here for the Iraqi students.  Today we more than doubled the number of qualified instructors.   The number of students the school can accommodate is now double from last year and we have plans to graduate over 3,000 ISF intel professionals from the school this year.”

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Friendly Faces

Several young girls pose for a photo in the Istaqlal Qada, Jan. 16, 2009.
(Photo by Brad Willeford)

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Story by Task Force Duke
Public Affairs Office, 3rd BCT, 1st ID

Nuristan PRT holds "shoe-drive" for Afghan children

BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan (January 14, 2009) - Every Friday the Nuristan PRT holds a "shoe-drive" at FOB Kalagush, supplying 60 - 70 Afghan children with socks and shoes each week.
The project began when 1st Sgt. Terry Pittman, Nuristan PRT, saw 2 Afghan children leaving the FOB after receiving medical care.  He noticed the older child carrying the younger child barefooted.  He learned the children had come from miles away, over harsh terrain, so the younger child could be treated for cold symptoms.  "It touched me because I imagined my 12-year-old son walking that distance, with no shoes on and carrying his little sister," said Pittman.  After bringing the children back into the FOB and rounding up sandals for them to have, Pittman decided he had to do something. 
While looking into support from humanitarian aid resources, Pittman decided that they didn't have time for that and had to do something for these children now.  "I want to help the children of Afghanistan by making sure every child that walks onto this FOB, leaves with shoes and socks," said Pittman.
Pittman called everyone he knew and asked them to send shoes. When members of the PRT heard the plan they instantly supported it. Since then, shoes, socks, coats and toys have been coming in from across the U.S.
"Without these people and their contributions this wouldn't happen," said Pittman. "I want to thank them all because they have really gone beyond the call of duty to help the people here."
For some of the children, the shoes are replacements to battered sandals with holes worn through the sole; to other children they are the first pair of shoes they've ever worn.  "If these children don't remember anything else about us being here, they might remember that an American Soldier gave them their first pair of shoes or socks," Pittman said.

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Dear Interested Reader,
Proud to showcase outstanding Senior Airman Ashley Tubbs, named SF Airman of the Year!  Solar powered clinic in Ameriya can run for 72 hours on 10 hours of sunlight.  Agricultural team working towards a promising fish harvesting project.  Children smile as a new elementary school opens in Kirkuk province.  IP complete Lifesaver and Basic Combat Lifesaving Skills courses.  Suspected criminals detained and weapons caches seized.  In Afghanistan, CF and Afghan NP vaccinate hundreds of livestock.
Joanna
______________________________

Jan. 18, 2009

Blackanthem Military News

Eglin cop earns Air Force award

By Noel Getlin, 96th Air Base Wing Public Affairs

AF Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz congratulates Senior Airman Ashley Tubbs, named SF Airman of the Year, during the general's visit to Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., Jan. 9.
(Air Force photo by Bruce Hoffman)

EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. - Senior Airman Ashley Tubbs didn't join SF to change tires and work on vehicles.  But that didn't stop her from taking those duties in stride during her deployment in Iraq.  For awhile, her sqdrn didn't have vehicle maintenance, "so we became mechanics also," Airman Tubbs said. "I was in charge of the vehicles, so whenever anything broke, I had to fix that. I had no idea what ball bearings were until then."  And when ordnance was found in off-base housing here, she helped evacuate the area, and called in the authorities to remove it and ensure the safety of residents.
It's that kind of flexibility and leadership that resulted in the AF selecting Airman Tubbs as the 2008 Air Force Outstanding SF Airman of the Year for the period of Oct. 1, 2007, through Sept. 30, 2008.  Words such as "brilliant and charismatic leader" dot the award nomination submitted for Airman Tubbs, who seemed a little embarrassed by all the fuss.  "It's just an honor to hear things like that," said Airman Tubbs, smiling shyly. "I couldn't do it without the leadership and my peers around me helping me."  Supervisor Tech. Sgt. Elizabeth Staub has high praise for the modest airman. "Senior Airman Tubbs is a pleasure to work with," she said. "She always has a smile on her face and kind word to say."
During her 12-month deployment, she was part of the AF Police Transition Team, and was awarded the Army Commendation Medal for her efforts. She instructed IP on law enforcement ops, and trained and mentored more than 3,000 recruits toward independent ops.
Airman Tubbs also received the Combat Action Medal after actively engaging the enemy on 3 IED strikes resulting in zero sqdrn or bn casualties.  Her first experience with an IED came 2-1/2 months in country during a convoy. The second vehicle, the one Airman Tubbs normally would drive, was hit by the IED. Luckily, the convoy was close to its destination and no one was injured. A fellow airman was videotaping when the incident occurred.
"It was an interesting time because our video ended up going to Balad, and it was used for a training video because we all got out of the kill zone in 10 seconds, which is faster than most," Airman Tubbs said.
Airman Tubbs has had a stellar year. In August 2008, she also won the Lance P. Sijan Award, which recognizes those "who have demonstrated the highest qualities of leadership in the performance of their duties and the conduct of their lives," according to the citation.  During his visit to Eglin AFB Jan. 9, Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz presented Airman Tubbs with a cmdr's coin.

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

Solar-powered clinic officially opens in Ameriyah

BAGHDAD - An anticipated project in northwest Baghdad designed to power a clinic with the sun's rays was officially completed and marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony Jan. 15, in the Ameriyah neighborhood of northwest Baghdad.  The staff at the Ameriyah clinic is now capable of treating patients and delivering babies at any time of the day.
Although the clinic has been running on solar power for a few weeks, the clinic staff and supporters of the project wanted to display the project in a ceremony.  Before the installation of the solar panels, which were installed in late November, the clinic could only operate in daylight hours and relied heavily on the national power grid.  That meant if Ameriyah citizens needed urgent care or expecting mothers went into labor in the middle of the night, they couldn't go to their local clinic but had to be transported to a location further away.
The 32 solar panels installed on the clinic's roof provide power to the key portions of the clinic, to include the labs, the birthing section and the refrigeration units for vaccines and other medical supplies.  Because the clinic staff did not have refrigeration for vaccines, the items had to be kept on ice. When the vaccines started to go bad, the staff had no choice but to destroy them without use.
"Since this is the only clinic available for the citizens of Ameriyah, and Ameriyah is one of the safer places in Baghdad, it was ideal to start a project like this here," said Mahdi Johnny, electrical engr and advisor for the project.  "This is a critical area that serves about 500,000 people."

Col. Joseph Martin, cmdr., 2nd HBCT, 1st ID, prepares to hand a pair of surgical scissors to Dr. Ibraheem (right), director of the Ameriyah Clinic, at a ribbon cutting ceremony. The ceremony was a demonstration of how the clinic can run for 72 hours powered by 10 hours of sunlight.
(Army photos by Spc. Dustin Roberts)

Dr. Ibraheem speaks at a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the official opening.

Capt. Kenneth Johnson, surgeon, 2nd HBCT, talks to local Iraqis about solar power.

Col. Gerald Gibbons, ePRT, 2nd HBCT, inspects the solar panels on the roof of the Ameriyah Clinic.

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MNC-I agricultural team working promising fish harvesting project

BAGHDAD - In the 1990s, Saddam Hussein drained Marsh Arab wetlands in southern Iraq to punish locals who had provided refuge to rebels. The results devastated entire villages whose economies relied mainly on the fishing industry. Years later, water is flowing back to the wetlands, but the fish population is still depleted.
MNC-Iraq's agricultural team is collaborating with the GoI in an effort to revitalize the fishing industry in areas where the fish population was decimated.  For the next month, the MNC-I C9 agricultural team and Iraqi biologists will go fishing in Victory Base Complex's lakes, including the moat that surrounds Al Faw Palace..
Their catch - 3 rare species of male and female fish will be transported to the state fish hatchery in Sewara, in Wasit Province, 65 km south of Baghdad. "The biologists that looked at the fish at Al Faw Palace said that if they could capture a number of these fish, it would revolutionize the fishing industry in Iraq, so they're very excited about it," said Col. Lyle Jackson, veterinary officer, C9 agriculture, MNC-I. "These fish are extremely valuable."
The fish to be harvested are of the Bunni, Shabout and Kattan species, 3 of the types most desired by Iraqis. "The whole population of Iraq favors these types of fish," said Dr. Raffo, veterinary poultry advisor, C9, MNC-I.
Raffo said the genetics of the fish on Victory Base Complex are ideal and can't easily be found anywhere else in the world, as they have been carefully selected and no one has touched, abused or attempted to catch them illegally.  The goal is to capture about 150 female fish and 300 male fish of appropriate size from each species by the end of January.  "They [the Iraqi biologists] have got a way to get the roe out of the fish and then get the eggs super fertilized, so we get a very high percentage of fertile eggs and a very large hatch," Jackson said. "These fingerlings we produce from this project will be used to restock the marshes in the south that have been devastated by drought and by the previous government," Jackson said. "They're depleted and so those people can't make a living fishing anymore."  Jackson, Raffo and the rest of the agricultural team are confident the project's success will be felt nationwide. "We can help the whole Iraqi economy with these fish," Jackson said.

MSgt. David Kidder, ops NCO-in-charge, C9 agriculture, feeds fish of the Shabout species, in an effort to lead the fish from the bridge to the shoreline where they can be more easily captured for the harvesting project.
(Army photo by Spc. Christopher M. Gaylord)

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Village Opens New Elementary School

Children smile for the camera in the village of Atshiyana. The children of the community were invited to a school opening in Kirkuk province.
(Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Brian L. Short)

FOB WARRIOR — As the security situation in Iraq continues to improve, the number of infrastructure projects around Kirkuk province are on the rise.  Local village leaders, SoI members, the school head master, teachers and future students, along with U.S. forces, celebrated one of them - the grand opening of a new elementary school in Atshiyana village, Jan. 12.
Overall, the ceremony was a great success, according to Hawijah council rep Al Hamdany. “Without a school, how can you educate yourself?” he asked. “We now have 240 students who can look forward to a better future because of this school.”
Throughout the day of the ceremony, SoI members distributed goods to the school and children. They passed out more than 400 pencils, 75 notebooks and 100 t-shirts.  U.S. Civil Affairs Soldiers joined the locals in the celebration.  Having followed the project for more than 3 months, one Soldier expressed his joy for the newly opened school. “I’ve been checking on the progress of this project since October,” said Spc. Christopher Loflin, with Detachment 1, B Co., 490th CAB.

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Jan.16, 2009

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

IP complete Combat Lifesaver and Basic Lifesaving Skills courses

BAGHDAD – Fifteen IP recently completed Combat Lifesaver and Basic Lifesaving Skills courses, training that could help save a fellow policeman’s or Iraqi citizen’s life in the future.
Soldiers from the 256th Area Support Medical Co of the Florida Army National Guard taught the 4-day course at FOB Shield in Baghdad.  Spec. Eric Sullivan, Staff Sgt. Hatchett, and Spec. Jonathan Pollard, a medical specialist, taught the course.  The curriculum included tactical field care, CPR, basic first-aid, treating chest wounds, administering intravenous fluid and evacuation carries out of a combat area.
“They were some of the most motivated students I’ve ever had,” said Sullivan.  “You could tell they wanted to learn and this was important to them.  I have no doubt the knowledge they gained will one day help one of them save someone’s life.” 
One of the students, Mohammed, said, “I was so excited when I found out I was one of only 5 from my company to be selected for this course.  This is something we really need.  We have not had this type of training before.”  Mohammed recalled one incident last year when his convoy was hit by 3 IEDs, followed by an ambush.  “Life can change in an instant in Iraq.  Several of my friends died that day,” said Mohammed, who works in the Iraq Ministry of Interior’s Internal Affairs Directorate.  In the past year alone, 82 officers in the directorate have been killed in the line of duty. “We have been suffering for a long time.  This course is so important to us because it gives us the skills and know-how to save a life.  This is something we have needed, and all of us are very glad to have received this training,” added Mohammed.
Capt. Thomas Larkin of the 256th ASMC, medical officer-in-charge of the Troop Medical Clinic at FOB Shield said, “We wanted to teach them skills, so they will feel competent in treating a casualty and stabilizing the victims to get them to a higher echelon of medical care.  We're here to serve the needs of the military and police, and shore up the Iraqi medical system.  We want them to feel competent in saving lives when performing missions such as warrant searches for their dept.”

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ISF, MND-B Soldiers detain wanted criminals, find additional munitions

BAGHDAD -  Soldiers from Co D, 1st Bn, 505th PIR, attached to 1st BCT, 4th ID, working with IA Soldiers, discovered additional munitions at a cache site initially seized Jan. 15 in the Rashid district of southern Baghdad.  Combined caches included 4 57 mm rockets, 8 propane tanks, 3 mortar rounds, 2 IEDs,
IA Soldiers  and MND-B also combined their efforts to seize unexploded ordnance, a weapons cache, and detained 4 suspected criminals Jan. 15, in the Saydiyah community of the Rashid district in southern Baghdad.
IA soldiers partnered with Co B, 1st Bn, 22nd Inf Regt, 1st BCT, 4th ID, discovered an 82 mm mortar round,  a 60 mm mortar round, an anti-tank mine and several fuses, and detained 4 individuals during combat ops. The suspected criminals were detained on warrants issued by the Baghdad Ops Center.

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ISF, MND-B Soldiers detain suspected criminal, find weapons caches in Baghdad

BAGHDAD - Iraqi SF arrested a suspected criminal Jan. 14 in Baghdad's Rashid district and found weapons caches across Baghdad, Jan. 15.
At approx. 11:45 a.m., Jan. 14 in the Shurta neighborhood, IA Soldiers partnered with Co C, 1st Bn, 22nd Inf Regt, 1st BCT, 4th ID, detained one individual wanted on a warrant issued by the Baghdad Ops Center. The suspect, wanted for murder and insurgent activity, was taken to a nearby JSS to be processed.
At approx. 9:30 a.m., Jan. 15, IA Soldiers seized a cache that contained 60 60 mm mortars, 50 hand grenades, a mortar tube, 2 mortar stands and home-made explosive ingredients, south of Baghdad.
Acting on a citizen's tip, Soldiers serving with Co D, 505th PIR, attached to 1st BCT, 4th ID, working together with IA Soldiers seized a cache that contained several small IEDs made from homemade explosive, a small amount of detonation cord and a magnetic IED at approximately 6 p.m. in the western Baghdad neighborhood of West Rashid. Citizen tips have helped in the seizure of numerous weapons caches in this neighborhood.
At approx. 8 p.m. in West Rashid area, IA Soldiers found a cache that contained a 60 mm mortar, an anti-tank mine and an undetermined number of mortar fuses.   

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American Forces Press Service

Afghan NP and CF vaccinate hundreds of livestock       

KABUL, Afghanistan – Afghan NP and CF vaccinated hundreds of livestock during a Veterinary Civil Action Program in Deh Rawod district, Oruzgan province, Jan. 11.
The combined forces visited a local village to provide livestock vaccinations to increase the survivability of the herds during the winter months.  More than 530 animals were treated by Coalition veterinarians. Villagers also received info on basic herd management, to increase the overall health of the animals.
"This was a great opportunity to help local Afghans develop and manage their herds, which, in most cases, tend to be their primary source of income," said Zemarai Bashary, spokesman for the Afghanistan Ministry of Interior. "Afghan and CF will continue working with the Afghan people to improve opportunities for economic development in Afghanistan."

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 Dear Interested Reader,
Thanks to the generous Americans, winter coats and shoes are donated to Karmah children.  IA leaders and CF discuss security for upcoming elections.  Co A, 27th Inf. teach the importance of map skills.  Border Enforcement Commandos graduate course.  Tribal leader donates land for new IP station.  ISF and 82nd Abn soldiers conducted a joint patrol through the historic Matanabi Book Market.  In Afghanistan, efforts are being made to expand and modernize Afghan NP emergency medical-patient transportation capability.
Joanna
_____________________________

Jan. 17, 2009

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

Winter Coats Donated to Karmah Kids   

  

A young girl holds new boots and a winter coat donated by U.S. Marines from RCT 1.
(Photo by Lance Cpl. Achilles Tsantarliotis)

KARMAH — U.S. Marines distributed shoes and cold-weather coats to children here, Jan. 6.  During Karmah’s coldest months, ranging from 60 degrees during the day to freezing temperatures after dusk, many children are without winter apparel and some even without shoes on their feet.
The unit’s chaplain, Navy Lt. Brandon Harding, initiated the effort by contacting various non-profit orgs. throughout the U.S. for donations. The clothing drive was the fifth the Marines have coordinated, donating approx. 4,500 pounds of clothing overall. “The response has been overwhelming,” Harding said. “It’s amazing to see how generous Americans are. Hopefully it helps Iraqi people see we’re good people.”
Iraqi children lined up by the dozens, patiently waiting to receive a pair of shoes and a coat to combat the biting cold at sundown.  The children were more than enthusiastic and could not stop smiling and thanking the Marines and Sailors for the valued donations.  “It’s very good,” said Hamid Naief, a father of 7 residing in central Karmah. “From the first time CF got here, things have been very good. This shows the generosity first hand.  We need it so much,” he said. “I do not like seeing the kids go to school, or to play with bare feet and without jackets. The Americans helping us means so much. They are our friends and we thank them.”

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Iraqi leaders and Coalition forces discuss elections

TIKRIT - Iraqi and CF military cmdrs. gathered for conferences Jan. 10 in Ninewah Province, and Jan. 15 in Diyala Province to discuss cooperation and support for the provincial elections.
Lt. Gen. Lloyd J. Austin, III, comm. gen., MNC-Iraq, received a Security Cooperation Council briefing Jan. 15 regarding the provincial elections scheduled Jan. 31 in both provinces.  Briefers included Mr. Kareem, Iraqi High Elections Cmdr., Iraqi Maj. Gen. Hashem, Iraq Ground Forces Cmdr., Maj. Gen. Robert L. Caslen, comm. gen., MND-North, and Brig. Gen. James C. Nixon, dep. comm. gen. of ops, MND-North.  Briefers made recommendations on security and provided intel on the climate in hostile areas.
The GoI has requested CF support to ensure safe, legitimate and credible elections in hostile areas.

U.S. and Iraqi leaders of Diyala Province discuss the upcoming provincial elections in a Security Cooperation Council meeting on FOB Warhorse, Jan. 15.
(Navy photo by Mass Communications Specialist 2nd Class Walter J. Pels)

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IP improve map skills

HUSSENIYAH -

IP officers from the Al Zahour IP Station, follow Sgt. Timothy Miller, inf. team leader with Co A, 1st Bn, 27th Inf Regt, 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID, attached to 3rd BCT, 4th ID, on a navigation training session, Jan. 4.
(Army photos by Sgt. 1st Class J.B. Jaso III)

Sgt. Miller shows the officers of the Al Zahour IP Station the importance of using a compass in navigating through this northeast Baghdad region.

Officers from the Al Zahour IP Station plan a route to conduct a dismounted patrol while Sgt. Timothy Miller,  observes the IP implementing the skills they had just learned. Miller instructed the IP officers on navigation skills during a training session, assisting in the transition of security from CF to Iraqi SF.

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Border Enforcement Commandos graduate course

FOB DELTA - The 2nd half of the 1st Co, 3rd Bn, Dept. of Border Enforcement Region Commandos graduated from a 2-week training course on mounted and dismounted techniques, urban and close quarter combat, medical training and snap traffic control points at the Karmashiyah Border Fort, Jan. 13.
"Thank you to the support of training team from the U.S. forces, and the experience they provided the Iraqi Soldiers in this training," said Iraqi Col. Jaber, cmdr. of 3rd Bn, DBE Region Commandos, in his speech to the Soldiers at the graduation. "I thank the Soldiers of the 1st Co, and the officers, for their work and cooperation with the U.S. forces, to serve as the new Iraqi future."
Soldiers from 2nd Plt, Btry B, 2nd Bn, 20th FAR instructed the training.  "Today we celebrate the commandos of the DBE, as they complete their initial training, and prepare to assume their role on freedoms' frontier, as the lead guardians of the sovereign border of Iraq," said Lt. Col. Timothy Bush, 2nd BN, 20th FAR cmdr.
First Lt. Layne Christopher, Plt Leader, 2nd Plt., Btry. B, was the officer-in-charge of the 2-week training courses. "The next step is conducting joint ops with the commando co, and continually improving and building off the skills they learned in the course," he said.

Lt. Col. Timothy Bush hands out a certificate.
(Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Joe Thompson)

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Tribal leader donates land to MoI for IPs

BAGHDAD - As the Security Agreement between the GoI and CF gains momentum, the Iraqi people continue to assume the protection, care and responsibility for the security of their country. This is no different in the rural, farming area of Arab Jabour; where local citizens have taken a stand to improve their quality of life and increase their commitment to the safety of their community, by supporting the grand opening of the Arab Jabour IP Station, Jan. 11.
"This IP Station was made a reality because a local shaykh donated the land where this station is located," said AF Capt. Christopher Snell, a PTT Training officer serving with Detachment 3, 716th MP Bn, 8th MP Bde.  "This gesture truly illustrates the concern for safety and security from the local population. The neighborhood previously had a SoI group that would patrol the community, but they wanted to do more."  After the community members decided on a police station, a local tribal leader donated the land to the Ministry of Interior and asked that a local police station be built.
"The IP really took the lead on the process of opening this police station," said Snell. "We were there to support them on the plans, but they wanted to take full responsibility for the project, and they just kept moving forward on it."

AF Capt. Christopher Snell (left), and Lt. Col. Darryl Johnson, cmdr. of 716th MP Bn., 8th MP Bde., attend the grand opening.  The Soldiers and Airmen of the unit provide PTT Training expertise to the IP and assisted with the process of opening the station.
(Army Photo by Staff Sgt. Jessika Malott)

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National Police lead patrol during market visit

BAGHDAD - NP officers and IA Soldiers, partnered with Soldiers assigned to the HHC, 3rd BCT, 82nd Abn Div,  conducted a combined patrol Jan. 13 in the Rusafa district of eastern Baghdad.              
Iraqi SF and their MND-B partners conducted the op inside Baghdad's historic Matanabi Book Market. Iraqi citizens greeted the patrol during its mission, with many of the residents saying they felt the partnered patrols have been an important reason for the improved security in the past few months. 
The leaders took time to speak with shop owners, greet customers and discuss the need to maintain recent security gains.  The Matanabi Book Market was closed nearly 2 years ago after a suicide bomber attack, and reopened to the public in December.  The market and its surrounding shops welcome thousands of residents and showcase some of Iraq's finest selection of food, art and clothing.
"I don't think we could have walked this market without a platoon-size force a year ago," said SSgt. Michael Foley, a squad leader assigned to the personnel security detachment. "It is a clear sign of the improvements on security made across the country, and it was great to see the market so busy. Working hand-in-hand with the ISF makes it all that much better. "This is what we like to see - people living their normal lives and away from fear.  It was quite a site to see."

Staff Sgt. Michael Foley (left), patrols the Matanabi Book Market. 
(Army photo by Staff Sgt. Alex Licea)

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ISF, MND-B Soldiers detain wanted criminal, seize munitions, weapons caches

BAGHDAD - Jan. 15, in Baghdad's Rashid district, IA soldiers partnered with 1st BCT, 4th ID, detained a suspected murderer, in the Saydiyah community of the Rashid district, using an Iraqi issued warrant from the Baghdad Ops Center.
During 3 separate patrols, IA soldiers with soldiers from the 1st BCT discovered a barrel containing 4 57 mm rockets buried in the ground in Karb De Gla, 2 pipe bombs in Arab Jaboor, and confiscated 2 AK-47 rifles in the Saydiyah neighborhood.

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Tooth Ache

Military working dog, Kitti, awaits her root canal at the feet of her handler, Senior Airman Adam Belward, 882nd SF Sqdrn, at an air base in Southwest Asia, Jan. 15, 2009. Kitti's op required the collaboration of both an AF dentist and an Army veterinarian.
(Photo by Senior Airman Courtney Richardson)

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Tea Time

Marine Gunnery Sgt. Ralston Clarke drinks tea while attending a meeting with Iraqi leaders in the city council building, Hit, Nov. 29, 2008.
(Photo by Lance Cpl. Lindsay Sayres)

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January 11, 2009

U.S. Forces - Afghanistan

CSTC-A provides ambulances for ANP medical field       

KABUL, Afghanistan - In an effort to expand and modernize the Afghan NP emergency medical patient transportation capability, servicemembers deployed to the Combined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan command surgeons office, provided 7 modified Ford Ranger urban ambulances to the ANP office of the surgeon general.
There are 76,000 members of the ANP and the overall goal is to reach 82,000 in the force. Afghanistan has no pre-existing concept of police forces and ensuring medical treatment is a critical mission, explained Brig. Gen. Qandahar, ANP surgeon gen.  "The medical situation in Afghanistan is critical. These ambulances will help us transport patients quicker in order to save more lives," said Qandahar. The ambulances distributed throughout Kabul region are configured to carry 2 litter patients, 6 ambulatory patients, or 1 litter patient with 1 to 3 ambulatory patients, which allows for a more expedient and effective medical care system.
"It makes me very happy for the police to have these ambulances," said Colonel Wan, ANP dep. surgeon gen.  Now the ANP hospital, ANP Police Academy, ANP Central Training Center, Afghan border police clinic and ANP Shamshod clinic can offer police personnel, within their region, a reliable transport to a medical facility.
According to AF Major David Andrews, CSTC-A ANP senior medical advisor, this is just the beginning.  "This is where the rubber hits the road," said Andrews. "We have to keep pushing forward with better training, more people and getting out in the field."
In addition to the 7 urban ambulances delivered today, 283 tactical ambulances designed for rough terrain emergency medical evacuation are scheduled to be delivered early this year.

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Dear Interested Reader,
A sanitation program starts in Sab al Bour.  Iraqi business women demonstrate initiative and great courage.  Wheelchairs for Iraqi Kids Foundation change lives for the good.  A $200 million contract is turning over refurbished CF humvees to the IA.  Iraqi and U.S. leaders sign Memorandum of Understanding, as the GoI takes over infrastructure and services projects.  In Afghanistan, U.S. AF embedded training team strengthens Afghan National Army healthcare systems.
Joanna
___________________________

Jan. 16, 2009

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

ISF, MND-B Soldiers kick start sanitation program in Sab al Bour

JSS SAB AL BOUR - Cleaning up the streets of Sab al Bour is a priority for the city. To help get the mission done, IP from the Sab al Bour IP station, along with Soldiers from Troop B, 2nd Sqdrn, 14th Cav Regt, 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID, helped local sanitation workers distribute trash cans along 2 of the busiest markets streets in Sab al Bour, northwest of Baghdad, Jan. 13 - 14.  A total of 500 trash cans were signed over from the local city officials to individual shop owners during the 2-day span.
Store owners agreed to place the cans outside of their establishments during the day and secure them indoors at night to limit the risk of damage or theft. The cans, color coded by district, represent the first step to implementing new Sab al Bour Sanitation program, which includes scheduled days for trash pickup by the city's 5 new garbage trucks.
"Sab al Bour has become a very successful city, and cleaning up the streets will only make it better," said Sgt. 1st Class Brian Chavez, a plt sgt for Troop B. "By the second day we could already see a noticeable improvement."

The Sab al Bour City Surface Developer explains to a market owner his obligation while maintaining the GoI issued trash can outside of his establishment.
(Army Photo by Sgt. Robert Marin)

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Blackanthem Military News

Iraqi Business Women Demonstrate Initiative, Courage

By Rick Haverinen, Gulf Region Division

Left to right, Dr. Nada Ibrahim, member of the Iraqi Parliament; Azza Humadi, program mgr of the Gulf Region Division's Women's Advocate Initiative; an unidentified conference attendee; and Rear Adm. Kathleen Dussault, cmdr., Joint Contract Command, Iraq and Afghanistan, enjoy a moment during a break January 12 at the Al Rasheed Hotel in Baghdad's Int'l Zone.
(Photos by Leo Zubritsky)

BAGHDAD - Iraq's women again demonstrated their courage at a January 12 "Women's Business Day" conference. "They have ten times, a million times more courage than me," said Azza Humadi, the conference organizer, and pilot of Gulf Region Div's Women's Advocate Initiative. "I always say they are the heroes."  Women dreaming of starting a business in Iraq, ponder concerns greater than the universal commercial question of whether income will outpace expenses. "The CF try to provide security," Humadi said. "That's the most important thing. If you have security, you have women working."
Approx. 70 people attended the conference, the most recent in a series of meetings held over the course of the last 4 years, which provide advice about how to contract with the local American and Coalition military markets, providing goods and services.
"Part of my speech talked about the growth of participation over the past 4 years," said Rear Adm. Kathleen Dussault, one of the conference presenters. "In 2005, only $7 million went to women's businesses, and today we are doing $183 million worth of business with women-owned companies. nSo that's just a tremendous success, and today was an opportunity to celebrate that."
Humadi, who actually is employed by contractor Stanley Baker Hill, says she has seen her program grow under Dussault's support during the admiral's one-year tour. "The credit is due to the courage of the women business leaders," Dussault said. "To be a small business person generally takes a great deal of investment personally, both financially, and in terms of your own effort.  But to do so in a very traditional Middle Eastern culture just shows tremendous courage and fortitude."
The courage the women demonstrate includes concerns about physical safety. Many report that it can be a worry just to drive to work every day when you know your route has been targeted before with roadside bombs. "I faced one problem when my car broke down on the highway to Baghdad Airport at 7 p.m.," said one regular conference attendee, "and it was hard to even get someone to help me."
Just getting onto a CF military base can also be difficult depending on current security conditions, reported some of the attendees. The monetary income is one payoff, of course, but the women seem aware they are also fueling Iraq's overall economy.  "It's a very nice feeling to provide jobs for people," said Mary Terese D. Marrow, an Iraqi who started contracting with Americans by obtaining a variety of trailers, but who has expanded her business by contracting electrical work and by providing job training to Iraqis.
"In many war-torn economies, the only part that continues to work is at the community level, and women are the most powerful players in that," Dussault said, "and I think Iraqi women have turned that from a community-based effort and a micro-economic level, to a very important business entity at a more macro-economic level. They are becoming a powerful business force in Iraq, so enormous strides have been made."
The "Women's Program," as it is called informally, has developed its own timeline and its own fan base, Humadi said.  Many of the attendees have run their own business for some time, but they follow the program, continuing to appear at ribbon-cutting ceremonies and networking meetings, in support of their mentor and the other women in the program.
"When I established my company in 2005, I kept in contact with Humadi," said Marrow. "Whenever she asked for a meeting, I'd come. Actually Azza is the major force that gave me the opportunity to do business, because she introduced me to a contracting officer at Camp Victory."
The conference included info about how to register and train for the related Joint Contracting Command's women's program and how to transfer funds electronically.  A presentation of the MNF-Iraq's "Iraqi Base Industrial Zone," or I-BIZ, demonstrated how Iraqi businesses could be established within the secure perimeter of a military installation.
The support of the GoI was tangible with a guest speech by State Minister for Women's Affairs, Dr. Al Samarae, and attendance by 2 female members of the Iraqi Parliament. "We were inviting the GoI to take part because seeing is believing," Humadi said. "It's not only seeing faces, but seeing work, like the photos I had in my presentation.  Each one of the woman contractors represented in the project photos stood up, and that adds legitimacy to what you are saying."

Mary Terese D. Marrow, owner of Melik Al Misk for Trading and General Contracts Ltd., responds to questions for Al Fayhaa Television.

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NP, MND-B Soldiers search for weapon caches in Istaqlal

ISTAQLAL -

Spc. David Dempsey, a mortarman with HHC, 1st Bn, 27th Inf Regt, 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID, attached to 3rd BCT, 4th ID, talks with an Iraqi NP member Jan. 13, during a combined op, focused at identifying and removing illegal weapons caches in the Istaqlal Qada.
(Army photo by Sgt. Brad Willeford)

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MND-B EPRT brings wheelchairs to disabled Iraqis in Rashid

FOB FALCON -

Amna Hamid and her mother talk to the founder of the Wheelchairs for Iraqi Kids Foundation, Jan. 14 at the Rashid District Council Building in Baghdad's Rashid district.  Soldiers of the 1st BCT, 4th ID, and 1st BCT's ePRT delivered the wheelchairs to the council hall in southern Baghdad, to be distributed to disabled Iraqis.  An American family donated the money to buy the materials for the wheelchairs, assembled by S. Dakota inmates, and they were shipped to Iraq by the foundation.
(Army photos by Sgt. Gustavo Olgiati)

Mr. Brad Blauser, ePRT, 1st BCT, 4th ID, and founder of the Wheelchairs for Iraqi Kids Foundation, makes the final adjustments in the wheelchair for Amna Hamid.

Amna Hamid tests her new wheelchair.

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IA receives humvees from Coalition forces

CAMP TAJI - The IA received thousands of armored humvees from the U.S. military, as part of an ongoing effort to enhance the IA's combat effectiveness. Administered by Multi-National Security Transition Command - Iraq, the program is a joint-effort between the U.S. Army and the U.S. AF with the intent to turn over 8,500 of the vehicles to the Iraqis by July 2009.
Col. Michael Sage, MNSTC-I supply div, manages an approx. $200 million contract to refurbish the vehicles before they are sold to the Iraqis. "Our aim is to provide the Iraqi SF, military and police, with a proven, reliable, and capable vehicle that will build their forces' capability and enable the ISF to engage in the counter-insurgency fight," said Sage. "MNSTC-I is tasked to generate, train, and help sustain Iraqi SF, so that they become a capable and self-reliant force."
Humvees destined for service in the IA, or IP Force start the transition process at the Camp Taji Redistribution Property Assistance Team Yard, a few miles north of Baghdad.  Once at Camp Taji, the humvees face a rigorous validation process.  "The vehicles are cleaned, inspected, and processed through a maintenance program that refurbishes the vehicles from the ground up," said Sage.  He went on to explain that after the process, every humvee receives a follow up inspection, repainted for the IA or NP forces, and finally inspected jointly by the Iraqis and U.S. Govt before they are accepted.
Mechanics of the 1538th Transportation Co, 165th CSSB, 10th Sust Bde conduct the initial inspection. "It's a huge mission that involves players all over the country, and the whole thing is focused right here at Camp Taji," said Sgt. 1st Class Russell Hullaby, who heads up the inspection process. "Every humvee transferred to the Iraqis comes through us.  It's really something that my guys can be proud of."
The 536th Maintenance Co, 419th CSSB, 10th Sust Bde is a direct support unit, assigned to the 165th CSSB assists in major repair work.  "We're equipped to fix minor problems on site," said Hullaby, "but major jobs like engine or transmission replacement have to be handed over to the 536th."
The AF-controlled RPAT main office validates cleared humvees at a rate of 50 per week, and assigns a batch number for transfer to the Iraqi Ministry of Defense.  "Our program turns over armored humvees only," said Maj. Sharon Ramp, on-site director of the Iraqi humvee turnover program at Camp Taji.  Ramp said since the program's inception, it has transferred more than 3,000 humvees to the Iraqis at an average rate of 400 vehicles per month.

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Iraqi, U.S. leaders in Baghdad sign Memorandum of Understanding

BAGHDAD - - The Gov. of Baghdad, the provincial chairman, CF and civilian leaders united their efforts regarding infrastructure and services projects in Baghdad and the outlying province, when they signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) Jan. 14 at FOB Blackhawk, in the Int'l Zone.
The MOU establishes and outlines project development, execution and turn over procedures for U.S.-funded projects. "Today we're signing an agreement to set forth the procedure between the GoI and the CF," said Al-Kadhimi, Baghdad provincial chairman. "We are going forward to start rebuilding Baghdad and other provinces."
"This agreement signifies the way ahead where (Chairman Kadhimi and Gov. Tahan), under their leadership, are taking charge of the reconstruction, and we are in a support role,"  said Maj. Gen. Jeffery Hammond, comm. gen., MND - Baghdad. "My pledge is that we will fulfill every element of this agreement.  We will support it at all times. We're proud to be part of the solution here."
"It's an important agreement because it governs the way that we plan, prepare, execute and also coordinate the range of projects that we assist with in the reconstruction of Baghdad, both the municipal area of Baghdad city proper, as well as across the province," said Brig. Gen. Robin Swan, dep. comm. gen. MND-B.
 "On one level, this agreement is about reconstruction in the physical sense of building infrastructure for the citizens of Iraq," said Bass, team leader of PRT - Baghdad. "It is about reconstructing and building relationships across the GoI, between the GoI, its citizens, and between the GoI and the U.S."

Al-Tahan (left), gov. of Baghdad and Maj. Gen. Hammond sign a Memorandum of Understanding.
(Army photo by Spc. Benjamin Crane)

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ISF arrest seven suspected criminals

BALAD  -  Iraqi SF arrested 7 suspected criminals on GoI issued warrants during ops throughout Iraq, Jan. 13.
One of the individuals was believed to be involved in the kidnapping of a boy rescued by Iraqi Counter-Terrorism Forces, Jan. 7.  The others were suspected of activities including weapons trafficking, kidnapping of local civilians, and attacks on CF.

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IA leads combined patrol through Abu Ghraib

ABU GHRAIB

An IA Soldier and Spc. Travis Clabaugh, infantryman assigned to Co C, 1st Bn, 27th Inf Regt, attached to 1st Bn, 21st Inf Regt, 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID, pull security during a short halt on a combined patrol in the Abu Ghraib District, west of Baghdad, Jan. 9.
(Army photo by 1st Lt. Christopher Smith)

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Dynamic Duo

U.S. Army SSgt. Alexander Santos of 3rd Plt, 230th MP Co, 793rd MP Bn, 18th MP Bde, with the IP patrols a future voting site in Jabella, Dec. 27, 2008.
(Photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Wendy Wyman)

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January 11, 2009

U.S. Forces - Afghanistan

Embedded Training Team strengthens ANA healthcare systems       

KABUL, Afghanistan - Located high in the mountains at an elevation of 8,000 feet, the Paktia Regional Military Hospital, where the Combined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan Medical Embedded Training Team (METT) has spent the last year, boasts an in-patient capability of 50 beds which will soon expand to a 100-bed facility.
The hospital serves the Afghan National Army assigned to the region which includes approx. 3,000 troops and several thousand family members. "The mission of the METT is to strengthen ANA healthcare system's ability to improve healthcare with rapid response by trained, knowledgeable and experienced medical personnel," said AF Capt. David Barker, Medical Service Corps, METT Facility Mgr.
A METT is a multi-discipline unit responsible for the development and training of their Afghan counterparts. The team consists of 15 active duty and AF reserve personnel.  "The skills of the ANA nursing staff are at or below those of newly-minted AF medical technicians," said AF Lt Col Joanne R. Ruggeri, chief nurse, medical ETT at FOB Lightning. "As the chief nurse mentor for approx. 30 Afghan nurses, my emphasis has been geared toward nursing education."
By even the most casual comparison to western medicine professionals, the ANA medical service could not meet the most rudimentary standards in their delivery of care. This training will assist the ANA in reaching western standards.  Cleaning and infection control measures were unheard of prior to American intervention. The Afghans are now learning how to deliver health care. The professional proficiency of the Afghan nurses has improved tremendously and with their continuing growth, the standard of care continue to improve.
"We use the medical evacuation system with helicopter flights to Bagram and Kabul major medical trauma centers for higher level of care," said Ruggari. "We have trained them how to safely treat and transport injured patients from outlying medical facilities."
The METT has also supported and strengthened the counterinsurgency strategy with the completion of 3 humanitarian medical missions in local villages led by SF.  In addition to receiving medical treatment, clothing and food was distributed to local villagers.  "These missions allow the ANA and Afghan NP to forge lasting relationships with the Afghan civilian population, promoting a governmental and nation-building effort," said Ruggeri.

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Dear Interested Reader,
It's a pleasure to highlight some of the unsung heroes of the 204th clerks who keep the vehicles in the fight.  IP station opens to better serve the community of Rashid.  First class of firefighters graduate from the Iraqi National Fire Academy.  Hurriyah's senior Sunni Shaykh praises reconciliation efforts.  Texas students collect school supplies for Iraqi students.  Numerous suspected criminals detained.  In Afghanistan, school children visit radio station in Shahadi Hassas, and AF Maj. Kevin Mantovani is presented with the Major General L. Dean Fox Award.
Joanna
_________________________

Jan. 15, 2009

Blackanthem Military News

204th Clerks Keep Vehicles in the Fight

By SSgt. Carlos M. Burger II

Pfc. Venus Ulrich, supply clerk, unloads a crate of repair parts.

FOB KALSU - Some of the Soldiers deployed to Iraq, support the mission in ways other than patrolling the streets or training the Iraqi SF. The Soldiers of Co B, 204th BSB, 2nd BCT, 4th ID spend their days supporting the Soldier who do.  They serve as unsung heroes, receiving and distributing parts to keep the vehicles moving.
The prescribed load list, or PLL clerks, order, receive process and distribute repair parts and expendable items for the battalion, said Sgt. Lucas Waite, shop office NCO-in-charge.
"I think what we're doing is important to the fight, because we're a key part in keeping the equipment up to par. It helps the Soldiers so they can do their mission and not have to worry about their equipment breaking down on them," Waite said.
"We have a good relationship, we're all very professional, and we don't play around much," said Ochoa, who is on his second tour in Iraq.  "We're a tight knit group. We work hard to get the job done," added Waite.

Chief Warrant Officer Tony Bryant, a bn maintenance technician, and Spc. Jackie Kinsley, an automated supply clerk, locate a part for a customer.

Sgt. Lucas Waite organizes repair parts for distribution. The co's 5-member team picks up parts from warehouses and moves them to the mechanics.

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

IP station opens to serve greater Arab Jabour community in Rashid

BAGHDAD - The citizens of Arab Jabour may notice more Iraqi SF on the roads and in the community than normal, thanks to the efforts of the GoI, and its dedication to securing the people of Iraq.
Community leaders, ISF cmdrs. and MND - Baghdad Soldiers gathered in the rural farming community in southern Baghdad's Rashid district for the grand opening of an IP station, Jan. 11.
"There was a big turnout of all the local leaders and ISF members," said Capt. Kip Kowalski, cmdr. of Co D, 1st Bn, 505th PIR, attached to the 1st BCT, 4th ID. "They all showed up to commemorate this great event, which is a good feeling, because they are all working together toward security improvements."
"Everything we do is with the IP, and this increased security allows us to move around with them more often," Kowalski stated. The added security in the neighborhood gives more responsibility to the ISF, said Kowalski.

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ISF arrest suspected criminals

BALAD - Iraqi SF arrested 9 suspected criminals on local and govt warrants during ops throughout Iraq, Jan. 10-11.  On Jan. 12, 9 more suspected criminals were detained.  The individuals were believed to be involved in activities including emplacement and facilitation of IEDs, weapons trafficking, kidnapping of local civilians and attacks on ISF and CF.

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First Class of Firefighters Graduate from the Iraqi National Fire Academy       

BAGHDAD — The first class of apprentice firefighters, designated Class 08-001, graduated in a ceremony at the Iraqi National Fire Academy here, Jan. 10.
Twenty firefighters, along with a future train-the-trainer instructor, completed the rigorous 2-month course of instruction to earn their firefighting certificates. The new firefighters are comprised of 13 Iraqi Ministry of Interior civilians, 5 IA Soldiers, and 2 Iraqi AF Airmen.  The train-the-trainer instructor, IqAF Chief Warrant Officer Abood, rounded out this first group to complete a new, Coalition-designed curriculum at the INFA.
The 60-day course is a result of joint efforts between Multi-National Security Transition Command – Iraq’s Coalition AF Training Team and the 50th Joint Area Support Group, working closely with the IA, AF, and Civil Defense.  Iraqi AF equipment was utilized throughout the training, with U.S. AF instructors and mentors providing oversight.
The course provided graduates the tools to perform as firefighters in the 3 Iraqi commands.  This new group of firefighters strengthens the capability of the military commands to become an independent and viable fighting force, while the Civil Defense force moves one step closer to achieving international certification.
“The objective of this course is to teach sound principles and practices for firefighting ops," said U.S. AF Tech Sgt. Brian Partido, chief instructor for the course and CAFTT Fire Rescue Advisor. "Not only did we accomplish this, but we also built a brotherhood that allowed us to share our experiences, knowledge, and cultures.”

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Hurriyah's senior Sunni shaykh praises reconciliation efforts

BAGHDAD - A senior Sunni Shaykh, publicly encouraged by the returns of internally displaced persons, wants the people of Iraq to know about it.
Leaders with the 2nd HBCT, 1st ID, visited with Shaykh al-Falahi at the offices outside the Um al-Qura Mosque, Jan. 11.  Lt. Col. Christopher Beckert, 2nd HBCT dep. cmdr., and Katherine Carroll, Vanderbilt University professor, serving with the Human Terrain Team, 2nd HBCT, met with Maqmoud to talk about returning IDPs, who moved away from Baghdad's Hurriyah neighborhood 8 months ago due to sectarian violence, and about releasing detainees from Iraqi jails, as steps toward overall improvement in the area, are being made.
Thousands of people have returned to Hurriyah and other neighborhoods in northwest Baghdad since September 2008.  "The American forces moved in strongly and exclusively to control Hurriyah, and I see a great future for the people there," said al-Falahi. "Hurriyah is very successful business-wise now, and it is now safe for more people to return.  I want to give a message to the world that we are grateful for the Americans working with us to release the detainees," al-Falahi said. "They need to know that balance is being restored in the neighborhood."
Beckert agreed bringing Arabic media to detainee release events would be a good way to show the Iraqi people how ISF and CF have come together to separate the criminal elements from innocent citizens.  "After talking with the IA, we think there will be many detainees released every week," said Beckert.  "We would like to focus the Arabic media on these events."
Beckert invited al-Falahi to attend a "media roundtable" with the brigade in the near future, proposing he could be a key speaker and interviewee for Arabic media, in a press-conference style environment.
"Democracy has been brought here and the Iraqi SF have been trained well," al-Falahi said. "With better security and better services to the people, Hurriyah is getting better every day."

Lt. Col. Christopher Beckert talks with Shaykh al-Falahi at the Um al-Qura Mosque.
(Army photo by Spc. Dustin Roberts)

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Iraqi, Texas students partners in academics

BAGHDAD - Students from Flowers of the Future school in Salman Pak, partnered with students at Rylander Elementary School, in Katy, Texas, during a school supply drop by a team of MND-Baghdad Soldiers, Jan. 11.
The Texas students collected more than 1,000 school supply items, to include glue, scissors, crayons, markers, books, paper and pencils. Katy area businesses donated the money for shipping costs to Iraq.
Capt. Stephen Johnson, assigned to HHC, 2nd BCT, 1st Armored Div, and his wife, Tracy, and Ashley Josey, all from Katy, Texas, helped coordinate the school supply partnership.
Johnson, whose son, Warner, attends Rylander Elementary, said he wanted to teach his son and his classmates the importance of giving. He asked his sister-in-law, Kathleen Briggs, a teacher at Rylander Elementary, to help his son and classmates collect the school supplies.
"They (Iraqis) give their children the best education that they can, and these supplies will significantly enhance their education," Johnson said.
The school supplies were distributed by a civil affairs team from TF 2nd Bn, 6th Inf Regt at the grand opening of the newly renovated school.  Approx. 700 students attend the school, which employs 15 teachers and has 17 classrooms.
"This is a great day for the children of the Marquez Mada'in," said Lt. Col. Michael Shrout, TF 2nd Bn., cmdr.
"Their school was refurbished by local Iraqi labor, secured by Iraqi SF and the Sawah."
The excitement of the moment was apparent as the Soldiers handed out the school supplies to the Iraqi students, who adopted the Rylander Rhino mascot for the day. "The smiles on the faces of the children and the parents gives us a sense of accomplishment," said Capt. William Richardson, Co C, TF 2nd Bn., cmdr. "Many of the parents and local leaders have told me they attended the school, and are very happy it has been restored. It is an important part of the personal history for many in this community."

Students from the Flowers of the Future school in Salman Pak send greetings back to their "partners" at Rylander Elementary School.  The Iraqi students adopted the Rylander Rhino mascot for the day.
(Army photo by Cpt. Dusty Gray)

Capt. Stephen Johnson meets with Rylander Elementary School students Jan. 11.
(Courtesy photo by Tracy Johnson)

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Smiling Faces

Army Cpl. Robert Minter talks with an Iraqi man and his son during a patrol in the Sumar section of Diwaniyah,  Jan. 4, 2009.  Minter is assigned to the 4th ID's 2nd Bn, 8th Inf Regt, 2nd BCT.
(AF photo by Staff Sgt. Rasheen A. Douglas)

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Teamwork

An IP and U.S. Army 1st Lt. Matthew Eidt from 2nd Plt, 230th MP Co, 793rd MP Bn, 18th MP Bde, patrol a local market in Eskan, on Jan. 5, 2009.
(Photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Wendy Wyman)

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U.S. Forces - Afghanistan

School children visit radio station in Shahidi Hassas       

KABUL, Afghanistan – A local radio station hosted a field trip for schoolchildren in the Shahidi Hassas district, Oruzgan Province, Jan. 4.  Radio station employees gave the 50 schoolchildren, who ranged from ages 5 to 14, a tour of the radio station that included demonstrations of how to use some of the radio equipment.  Many of the children had the opportunity to have their songs, poems and readings of Koran verses broadcast to the station’s surrounding residents.
Some of the students also spoke to the people about the importance and benefits of having an education.  While some students were showcasing the skills they had learned from their schooling, others were listening to their peers’ voices on a small radio in a nearby room.  “The children, like everywhere else, are the future of Afghanistan. The radio program is a great example of Afghans doing for themselves,” said Col. Jerry O’Hara, a U.S. Forces spokesman.  “Activities like this lift the hopes of all who are involved in Afghanistan’s future.”  

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U.S. Forces - Afghanistan

CSTC-A Airman presented with Major General L. Dean Fox Award     

KABUL, Afghanistan - For nearly a year, AF Maj. Kevin Mantovani, Combined Air Power Transition Force engineering dir., provided the Afghan National Army Air Corps with the best engineering advice the AF has to offer. For this and his many accomplishments at his home duty station McGuire Air Force Base, N.J., he was awarded the Major General L. Dean Fox Award, recognizing him for the outstanding senior military manager civil engineers for the AF.
When at his home duty station, Mantovani serves as the ops dir. for the 818th Global Mobility Readiness Sqdrn, one of two sqdrns in a contingency response group, a team that builds air bases. While working at McGuire, Mantovani gained a great deal of experience by providing the AF with airfield surveys and contingency training with the contingency response group. "A lot of their mission is unique and I think that's what helps my work package stand out," said Mantovani. "Building a foreign military is similar to what contingency response (group) does."
Mantovani was assigned to the Combined Security Transition Command-Afghan in Feb. 2008. Servicemembers assigned to CSTC-A train, advise, equip and mentor the Afghan National SF.  He is currently assigned to the Combined Air Power Transition Force/438th Air Expeditionary Wing.  "My job in CAPTF, as the engineering dir., is to develop and plan all the infrastructure for the Afghan National Army Air Corps," said Mantovani. "When the award board sat down as a group and read the kind of things that I did here, which is what all of us at CAPTF are doing, it seems very historical to be building an air force from the ground up."
CAPTF trains, mentors and equips the Afghan National Army Air Corps to provide numerous services to include presidential airlift, battlefield mobility and airborne command and control.  "Being recognized as an engr for the work we're doing in CAPTF just gives great credit to the CSTC-A and CAPTF mission, and how important it is to develop the Afghan National SF," said Mantovani.  "It's exciting that I can take what I've learned here and continue to contribute.  This one-year assignment has been the highlight of my career," he added. "I don't know if I will have the opportunity to do this level of work again."

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Dear Interested Reader,
Docs from 41st Fires Bde visit health clinic in Dujaylah.  The 18th Inf Regt helps make improvements to Shulla Library.  Economic improvements show promise with stronger support from the private sector.  IP leaders and 2nd HBCT discuss Election Day security.  The 17th IA Div celebrated the rebirth of the IA.  Iraqi Boy and Girl Scoots meet Texas-Georgia Scouts via VTC.  Liz Burg, a project engr. for the U.S. Army Corps of Engrs in Balad, was selected as one of the 2009 USACE "Top Five New Faces in Engineering."  In Afghanistan, CF target Haqqani network in Paktiya.
Joanna
________________________________

Jan. 13, 2009

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

Docs visit health clinic in Dujaylah

FOB DELTA - Doctors from the 41st Fires Bde Cooperative Medical Engagement Team visited the Dujaylah Health Clinic to assess the known challenges in healthcare faced by the Iraqi Ministry of Health, Jan. 8.
The visit is part of op Gunner Med, a joint medical civil-military op between the Wasit Dir. Gen. of Health and the 41st Fires Bde., designed to restore the medical capacity in Wasit province, and to bring clinics up to the regional health care standard.
"Cooperative medical engagements allow us to experience the challenges first hand that our Iraqi partners face every day in providing healthcare," said Col. Italo Bastianelli, 41st Fires Bde surgeon. "We address these challenges with process improvement projects in the areas of infrastructure, equipment and medical education, in order to build and sustain medical capacity in Wasit."
One of the problems mentioned by an Iraqi woman waiting to be seen, was that there are no female doctors at the Dujaylah clinic, and for emergencies, people have to travel 20 kilometers west to the hospital in Kut. "Women's health is one of many problematic areas facing the Iraqi healthcare system," said Bastianelli.  Recent initiatives include sponsorship of the mobile health clinic allowing rural areas access to healthcare with a priority focus on women's health and wellness, a maternal-child conference held last November, and sponsorship of midwifery training for women from rural communities.
"We also help the clinics with facility improvements, for example some of these facilities don't have good labs, guard shacks, a/c or drinkable water, and we're able to help by identifying those things," said Sgt. 1st Class Shane Waite, Surgeon Cell ops sergeant.
The cooperative medical engagement also helps to build a rapport with the staff at each clinic, said Sgt. 1st Class Shane Waite.  "Most of these patients are already being treated by this Iraqi doctor here at this clinic, and they get reassurance that the Iraqi doctors are doing the right thing when they see the American doctors agreeing with a diagnosis," said Waite.
"Iraqi doctors are well trained but their ability to provide care is limited because of the lack of resources," said Bastianelli.  "Security has improved which has stopped the mass exodus of physicians and the medical conditions are improving through the efforts of the Ministry of Health and CF," said Bastianelli. "Now is the time to recruit these physicians back to their home country."

Dr. Abdulridah and Col. Italo Bastianelli, look over a patient’s info. U.S. and Iraqi doctors saw over 250 patients at the clinic.
(Army photos by Sgt. 1st Class Joe Thompson)

An Iraqi patient waits as Capt. Nkemakonam Okpokwasili, Co. C, 589th BSB, 41st Fires Bde, looks in his personal digital asst. for prescription info.

Pfc. Serena Wagner, medic with Co. C, escorts a girl to the Dujaylah clinic.

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GOI, MND-B Soldiers make improvements to Shulla Library

BAGHDAD -

Soldiers from the 1st CAB, 18th Inf Regt, 2nd HBCT, 1st ID, speak with workers who are assisting in therenovation of a library in Baghdad's Shulla neighborhood, Jan. 8. The Soldiers were checking on progress at the library and assessing how the GoI and CF can provide further assistance to the project. (Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Robert Whelan)

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Economic improvements show promise in MND-C

CAMP VICTORY - As in many other aspects of the country of Iraq, improvements are visible within its economic structure, and if continued as planned, has nowhere to go but up.
"The security improvement has made it possible for us to grow the economy and build the skills and capacity of both govt officials and Iraqi businessmen," said Lt. Col. Barry Ross, dep. economics team leader, 445th Civil Affairs Detachment.
Economics and governance really go hand-in-hand. If govt officials are qualified and competent they can successfully stimulate economic growth. With a stable govt, investors will trust that their money will grow, and not get lost in a broken system.
"We are doing 2 things with economics in MNC-Center," he said. "We are working with the provincial govts to try to get them some training, to help them build their capacity and skills to attract business and grow the economy; and we are working directly with PRTs and BCTs to try to get business into the economy."
Team Entrepreneur, a team of subject matter experts in entrepreneurship, recently completed an initial tour in Najaf with an ultimate goal of understanding the dynamics of small businesses and entrepreneurship, specifically for southern Iraq to increase employment and grow the job market.  Another such project is the Najaf Provincial Investment Committee advisor, who will work through the Najaf PRT to help provide expertise for both short and long term dollar investments.
"There are a couple of other initiatives, with some being from the govt perspective, and others also trying to cover the private end as well," said Ross. "We work with the govt a good bit, but we also need to get the private industry going.  Ultimately the more private industry we get here the better it will be."
One successful example is a new dairy factory that recently received a $500,000 private loan from the bank of Baghdad for an expansion project. This project alone will produce 200 to 300 new jobs. So overall, this one project is reaching about 4,000 Iraqis which includes the number of family members supported by these jobs.
"This is why I say private investment is so key," said Ross.  "It's not just the number of people actually employed, it is the number of Iraqis that are now feeling satisfied, and have money coming into the house, and don't have to turn to other means such as terrorism to get money to support their family," said Ross. "That is why economics is so important here."

Capt. Eric Yarbrough, Team 420, Co A, 415th CAB team leader, assesses a soap and ghee factory in Amarah Aug. 6, 2008. Ghee is vegetable lard made from date oil.

Team 420, supports 4th BCT, 1st Cav. Div., during a market survey in Majar Al Kabir, Aug. 1, 2008.

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IP leaders, 2nd HBCT commander discuss Election Day security

BAGHDAD -  Col. Joseph Martin, cmdr., 2nd HBCT, 1st ID, visited local national police stations in northwest Baghdad, Jan. 10 to make sure they were on the same page in securing the population on Iraqi Election Day.
"The security and safety of the people of northwest Baghdad is our number-one concern," he said. "Their (Iraqi SF) success is our success, and we are here to help in any way we can."  To facilitate in the protection process, Martin said the Dagger Bde could offer Soldiers and bomb-sniffing K-9 units to lighten the ISF's load.
In each conversation with the 3 leaders, Martin wanted to highlight the efforts the ISF have been putting forth in the planning process for the big day.  "We're talking about such a small percentage of the population who are the criminals," Martin said. "We will talk to each other a lot in the next few weeks, to ensure the elections are run smoothly."

1st Lt. Patrick Tanner (left), 2nd HBCT, points to an area on a map in the office of Brig. Gen. Raheem, the chief of police in Baghdad's Mansour district. 
(Army photos by Spc. Dustin Roberts)

Col. Joseph Martin speaks to Col. Ra'ad, Salhiya Police Dept dir.

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17th IA Division celebrates Iraqi Army birthday

BAGHDAD - The 17th IA Div celebrated the rebirth of the IA with a ceremony and lunch at their division HQ in Mahmudiyah, Jan. 9.
"I would like to thank the CF. Your support has allowed us to better serve the Iraqi people. We are forever grateful to you," said Iraqi Staff Major Gen. Al-Frejee during a speech to a crowd which included the Mayor of Mahmudiyah, Qada officials, local Sheiks, the Asst. IA Chief of Staff, Lt. Gen. Dourhee and Soldiers from MND - Baghdad.
When the IA was re-established in 2004, Jan. 6 was set aside as the birthday of Iraq's reborn army. The day-long event closely resembles how their U.S. partner celebrates the birth of their Army with Flag Day on June 14.
Dourhee praised the IA for helping to bring security to the fledgling democracy during his key note speech. "The new IA has conducted itself with honor. We have created enough stability within the cities that is safe for the people we work for - the Iraqi people," said Dourhee.
A meal was immediately served to the attendees after the ceremony followed by soccer matches played by Iraqi Soldiers.  "That was a fantastic ceremony and a true representation of the professionalism of the IA," said Lt. Col. Jim Bradford, cmdr. of the 1st CAB, 63rd Armored Regt, which is currently assigned to the 2nd BCT, 1st Armored Div.

Lt. Col Jim Bradford congratulates Staff Maj. Gen. Al-Frejee, on hosting a great IA birthday celebration.
(Army photo by Capt. Jonathan Boyle)

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Iraqi Boy, Girl Scouts meet Texas, Georgia Scouts via VTC

BAGHDAD - 

Brig. Gen. Robin Swan, a dep. comm. gen. with 4th ID, talks with of a group of Iraqi Boy and Girl Scouts of the Victory Base Council at the Ironhorse Stadium, Jan. 10.  Swan, an Eagle Scout, was a guest speaker during a video teleconference in which Boy and Girl Scouts from Iraq were able to talk to and ask questions of Boy and Girl Scouts from the Fort Hood, Texas, and Augusta, Ga., areas.
(Army photos by Staff Sgt. Brock Jones)

Brig. Gen. William Grimsley, a dep. comm. gen. of 4th ID, talks with of a group of Iraqi Boy and Girl Scouts, while Scouts from the Fort Hood, Texas, and Augusta, Ga., areas are seen on the screen behind him.   Grimsley, an Eagle Scout, was a guest speaker.

Iraqi Boy and Girl Scouts, their volunteer Iraqi and U.S. leaders, and others.

A young Iraqi Boy Scout stands in front of a projector screen, as he talks to a Boy Scout in the U.S.

An Iraqi Boy Scout blows out a burning marshmallow Jan. 10 outside the Ironhorse Stadium, in front of the 4th ID and MND - Baghdad HQ.

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Blackanthem Military News

U.S. engr. in Iraq named one of "Top Five New Faces of Engineering"

By Mike Scheck, Gulf Region North district

Liz Burg, a project engr for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) in Balad, briefs Mr. Richard Hancock, the Gulf Region Div chief of programs, about the Pipeline Exclusion Zone project.

TIKRIT - A project engr for the USACE Balad Resident Office in Iraq was selected as one of the 2009 USACE "Top Five New Faces in Engineering."   Elizabeth Burg, an Army civilian, was selected for the award from among 22 engr nominees by the panel at USACE HQ in Washington, D.C.
Lt. Gen. Robert L. Van Antwerp, USACE cmdr., stressed the accomplishments that led to Burg's selection, referencing her work on coastal hydraulic models and physical structures, and how they are "helping to ensure the safety and welfare of the nation's people, commerce, and natural resources."  Van Antwerp commended her design of water systems for a women's ministry complex in Uganda and volunteer work supporting engineering, math, and science education, which are helping build communities and the engineering profession.
According to Burg, the award serves as a validation to her work as an engr. "I feel very honored to have been recognized for this award; it's nice to know that my peers and superiors think I'm doing a good job.  My work in Iraq has been very rewarding.  Knowing that I am part of something that is positively influencing the future of a nation is pretty incredible.  Back home I do research, so hands on construction is something totally different than what I normally do - but I love it.  All fields of engineering offer the opportunity to help people and create great change in a very tangible way.  It's a very hands-on way to leave your mark and create something to be proud of."
Current projects for Burg in Iraq include a number of Military Construction Projects (MILCON), construction of 2 IP stations and the Pipeline Exclusion Zone project.  Co-workers and her immediate supervisors in Balad have no doubt the panel made the right decision on selecting Burg for the award.  "Liz is not afraid to bring up tough questions with the contractors, and put herself on the spot when she feels it's the right thing to do," said construction rep Susan Fox.
Frank Scopa, area engr for the Balad office says it is difficult to believe that Burg has only been out of college for 3 years. "Her poise, demeanor and abilities far exceed what her apparent experience level ought to be," he said. "Her contribution as a full member of the project delivery team, belies her relatively short period of time in the construction field.  We have come to expect excellent performance from Elizabeth and she is delivering."
A self -admitted "AF brat", Burg graduated from the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology in 2006 with a bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering.  She currently attends Mississippi State University, working toward her master's degree in Civil Engineering.  Burg started her career with the USACE as a Co-Op student in the Omaha District.  After graduation she joined the Engineering Research and Development Center, Coastal and Hydraulics Lab, in Vicksburg, Miss., where she does physical modeling. She volunteered to deploy, and has been working in the Balad office as a project engr since Nov. 2008.

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U.S. Forces - Afghanistan

Coalition forces target Haqqani network in Paktiya       

KABUL, Afghanistan – CF detained 8 suspected Haqqani militants, including the 2 targeted individuals, during an op to disrupt the Haqqani foreign fighter and roadside bomb network in Paktiya province, Dec. 29.
In Shamul District, approx. 135 km south of Kabul City, CF apprehended 2 wanted Haqqani militants believed to traffic foreign fighters into Paktiya to conduct terrorist activities.  The targeted militants are also assessed to provide financial and logistical support to the terrorist org.
During the op, CF searched the targeted building finding spools of wire, blasting caps and other roadside bomb making material. 

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Dear Interested Reader,
Camp Fallujah signed over to GoI control.  Soldiers from the 340th MP Co donate school supplies, clothing and sporting equipment.  IA and TF Knight plan combined efforts.  The 2nd HBCT hosted an "Arabic Media Roundtable."  An incredible story of the rescue of 2 kidnapped victims.  Sheiks host a construction project opening celebrating at the Assyrian Ruins.  Hundreds graduate from the Iraqi Military Academy.  In Afghanistan, Afghan Commandos and CF destroy weapons cache in Ghorak district, while CF maintain pressure on terrorist cell in Ghazni.
Joanna
_______________________

Jan. 13, 2009

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

Iraqi Police with Soldiers of the 340th bring smiles to students

BAGHDAD - As bags and boxes were rolled into the school courtyard at Al Musqdad Primary School in Baghdad's Karadah district, smiling students peered through the windows of their classrooms to find Al Jadida IP, along with Soldiers of the 340th MP Co, TF 91 MP, 8th MP Bde, Jan. 4.
During the visit, IPs distributed school supplies, clothing and sporting equipment to the children to further develop the positive relationship between the IPs and citizens. All of the items were donated by the Soldiers of the 340th MP Co.
"Our platoon leader came up with this idea in August 2008, so that the Iraqi children would gain trust in their IPs as well as in CF," said Spc. Lauren DeYoung, 340th MP Co. "I told my parents what we were trying to do, so they began collecting stuff in my hometown for about a month.  At the same time it gave people back home the opportunity to help these children in any way that they could."  DeYoung and 2 other Soldiers, Sgt. Aaron Grechko and Pfc. John Lachioma assisted, reaching out to their hometowns as well.
"The smile on the children's faces is what motivated me to help out," said Grechko. "When I heard about what we were trying to do, I sent out an email to all of my friends.  One of my friend's mother's in an org., so to help the cause they too solicited for more assistance and donations from the community."   Each bag contained pencils, calculators, notebooks, glue sticks and other supplies.
After all of the bags were distributed, students formed a line and were presented clothes and a game or toy by Mahdy and DeYoung.  DeYoung helped Mahdy find clothes to fit each child.
"I am happy to have this and I thank them for these gifts," said Emad, a student at the school.  Not only were the children and IPs happy with the results of the outreach, but the Soldiers were moved by what they had been able to provide for their Iraqi friends.  "I think that this event went better than we had envisioned it," said Lachioma. "Watching the interactions between the children and the IPs today impacted the next generation and is a positive step towards a new Iraq."

IP Col. Mahdy, Al Jadida Local Police Station cmdr., and Spc. Lauren DeYoung present clothing and games to Al Musqdad Primary School students.
(Army Photos by Staff Sgt. Jessika Malott)

Spc. Lauren DeYoung collected over 125 boxes of school supplies, clothing and sports equipment she donated to the IP for their efforts to improve relationships with their community.

IP Col. Mahdy talks to Al Musqdad Primary School students, before presenting clothing and games.

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MNF-W signs over Camp Fallujah to GoI control

CAMP FALLUJAH - Maj. Gen. Martin W. Post, dep. comm. gen. MNF - West, and Mawafek Al-Kumanji, dir. of real estate, officially signed over Camp Fallujah to GoI control today in a ceremony at the camp.
Camp Fallujah is the latest in a series of bases turned over to Iraq by MNF-West including bases in al-Qaim, Habbaniyah, the Haditha Dam, Ramadi and several smaller COP throughout the Anbar province.
Camp Fallujah was home to nearly 8,000 service members from combat and service support units in February when the Camp Pendleton, Calif. based I Marine Expeditionary Force took charge of al-Anbar.
In addition, MNF-West also removed over 32,000 concrete and dirt barriers, 95,000 metric tons of scrap metal, and 900 containerized housing units - ultimately more than 6,400 tractor trailer loads. The project was completed on January 10.

Maj. Gen. John F. Kelly, MNF-W comm. gen., cases the colors in a ceremony, Nov. 14 signifying the transfer of MNF-West's HQ to Al Asad Air Base.  Kelly has ordered camp Fallujah to close and be handed back to the GoI. More than 8,000 Marines from the camp have been relocated throughout the Anbar province.
(Marine Corps photo by Master Sgt Otto Ellerbrock)

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Iraqi, Coalition forces plan combined efforts

BAGHDAD  -  Iraqi Leaders and TF 1st Bn, 35th Armor Regt, 2nd BCT, 1st Armored Div, attended their first Joint Targeting Meeting at COP Cashe South, southeast of Baghdad, Jan.9.
"The Combined Targeting Meeting helped provide 3-1 Iraqi NP's with insight on how TF Knight develops their independent targeting within the operational environment," said Capt. Joseph Philips, TF 1st Bn. Iraqi SF liaison officer. "The NP actively participated in the combined process, creating an open dialogue between NP leadership and their respective TF partners."  The IP partner closely with the unit as Iraqi SF responsibilities grow. The meeting discussed the most recent success, the beginning of joint targeting and marked the beginning of combined targeting efforts.
"This is a historic moment in the partnership between 3-1 NP and TF Knight," said Maj. David Raugh, 1st Bn. EO. "From this point forward, we will share a joint vision toward lethal and non-lethal ops and work together, hand-in-hand, to accomplish our goals."

IP Maj. Gen. Emad, cmdr. and Maj. Dave Raugh, chair the joint targeting meeting at COP Cashe.
(Army photo by Capt. Joe Philips)

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ISF, MND-B Soldiers detain suspected criminals in Baghdad's Rashid district

BAGHDAD -  At approx. 6:30 p.m., Jan. 10 in the Saha neighborhood, Iraqi NP partnered with Troop C, 7th Sqdrn, 10th Cav Regt, 1st BCT, 4th ID, acting on info provided by local Iraqi citizens, arrested a suspected criminal wanted for committing acts of violence, murder, extortion and kidnapping in connection with known terrorist groups operating in Baghdad.
Members of the 7th Bde., 2nd NP Div partnered with Soldiers from HHC, 1st Bn, 505th PIR, attached to the 1st BCT, 4th ID, served a warrant at approx. 3:30 p.m., Jan. 11 for the arrest of a suspected weapons trafficker with alleged ties to criminal orgs. in the Rashid district's Hadar community.
Operating in Rashid's Saydiyah community at approx. 8 p.m., Jan. 11, IA Soldiers partnered with Co B, 1st Bn, 22nd Inf Regt, 1st BCT, 4th ID, served the warrants for 2 Iraqis suspected of serving as informants for criminal elements.

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ISF, MND-B Soldiers secure environment for celebration

BAGHDAD -

 

IA Soldiers along with Soldiers from the 1st CAB, 18th Inf Regt, 2nd HBCT, 1st ID, discuss security concerns during the Ashura celebration in Baghdad's Kadhamiyah district, Jan. 6.
(Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Robert Whelan)

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2nd HBCT hosts Arabic media roundtable

BAGHDAD - Photographers and journalists from numerous media affiliates in Baghdad attended an "Arabic media roundtable" hosted by the 2nd HBCT, 1st ID, at FOB Prosperity, Jan. 11.
The discussion, led by Col. Joseph Martin, cmdr., 2nd HBCT, was to inform the local media of the Dagger Bde's mission in northwest Baghdad, spark the interest of story ideas for the press and answer specific questions the media asked.
"It is very important that the public, who read Iraqi newspapers and watch Iraqi television, are informed on not only the mission of CF, but specifically the mission of the Dagger Bde," said Mohammed Asadi, Arabic media coordinator for the Dagger Brigade. "I think the best way to inform the public is to bring the local media to the brigade and inform them about the mission."
About 30 media reps attended the event at the conference room in the main dining facility on FOB Prosperity.  After eating lunch they sat at tables with their eyes on the podium in a press conference style setting.  Martin opened up by thanking the group and wanted to ensure that they knew the brigade's primary mission was to work in partnership with the Iraqi SF in securing the people of northwest Baghdad. "There are many stories to tell about the people of northwest Baghdad and our relationship with them," Martin said to the group.  "Since our arrival over 2 months ago, we are proud to be a part of what we believe is a historic time for Baghdad and Iraq."
Some of the press members were very interested in what role the Dagger Bde will play on Election Day and how the new security agreement, enacted Jan. 1, will affect the security of the population. "These 2 events are very large milestones for the history of Iraq," said Asadi. "I know that the people are wondering how CF will be involved from now on."  Martin told the media present that the Dagger Brigade and ISF are carefully planning the details of patrols and searches to ensure Election Day will be safe.
Martin also mentioned how the ISF and CF have come together to bring displaced people back to their homes after they moved away because of sectarian violence.  He emphasized how the people are putting more and more trust in their govt as security improves daily.  "We continue to work towards a self-sustaining level of improvement, so there will be nothing that can stop it," said Martin.  "Because of that the Iraqi people, the Iraqi govt, and the team that works together to secure them is making news worldwide."

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ICTF rescues hostages, bust kidnapping ring

BAGHDAD - Two kidnapped victims, an 11- and 23-year-old, were reunited with their families, Jan. 7 in Baghdad after Iraqi Counter-Terrorism Forces (ICTF) rescued them, and arrested 12 suspected criminals involved in running a kidnapping ring.
The 11-year old boy was taken Dec. 25 in front of his home while playing with a friend. The 23 year old adult was kidnapped at gun point Dec. 20 while traveling in the city. The victims are not related.  The ICTF, a bn from the Iraqi SOF, learned of the child's disappearance when the distraught father phoned, pleading for help.  ICTF developed a plan to rescue the boy.  Initially, officials had few leads, but worked tirelessly to identify the kidnapping network with alleged financing and money laundering ties to terrorist groups, according to the ISOF bde cmdr.
The kidnappers were attempting to extort $70,000 from the child's family and $55,000 from the man's family claiming they would kill each, if the ransom wasn't paid.  ICTF gathered the required evidence to obtain a warrant from the Counter-Terrorism Bureau to execute the search and rescue mission. Over a span of several nights, ICTF searched homes, gathering intel.
On the final night of the op, the eve of Ashura ICTF conducted a 13-hour mission throughout Baghdad that led them to a couple who provided info about the kidnapping ring, and said they would take ICTF to where the victims were being held.  Within minutes, ICTF secured the suspected residence and captured the kidnappers. The 11- and 23-year-old victims were found chained and blindfolded in a back room.  According to the adult victim, he endured "harsh beatings for many days" while being held in captivity.
The boy's father spoke to the Soldiers following the op and said he could never fully thank them for their service.  "For 13 days I had no hope ... and you always promised me you would get him back," he said to the crowd. "Each of you is so brave, so ethical ... with every mission you're trying to make Iraq better."  The ICTF officer who initially promised the father that he would return his son, later commented that he would gladly give his life for three causes: For his family; for the men in his unit; and to see an Iraqi child smile ... because they are the future of this country. That same ICTF officer carried the 11-year-old boy in his arms from the kidnapper's home and delivered him safely to his father's arms.

Iraqi Counter-Terrorism Forces carry an 11-year-old boy out of the home in which he was imprisoned.

Iraqi Counter-Terrorism Forces cut the chains that shackled a 23-year-old kidnap victim.

An 11-year-old kidnapping victim emotionally embraces his father after ICTF successfully conducted a hostage rescue mission.

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Future Celebrated at Historical Ruins 

(By Spc. Cynthia Teears)   

Spc. Hector Guzman takes in the Assyrian Ruins during the project’s opening celebration, Jan. 4, 2009.

NINEWA PROVINCE — Sheik Khalid of Jobury and Sheik Ali of Albayati recently hosted a construction project opening celebration at the Assyrian Ruins.  Leaders from the military, police, construction co., and surrounding towns were invited to celebrate and discuss issues concerning the new project with the Green Dream Contract Co., said Lt. Col. Chris Johnson, cmdr., 1st Bn, 8th Inf Regt.
“The company is bringing in a new project to pave the roads and train Iraqi student workers. The training consists of 2 to 3 months in the classroom and 3 months of on-the-job training,” said Mohammed, an info technologist, Green Dream Contract Company. “The company has Iraqi counterparts here to head up and manage it.”
The students will learn road construction and repair, how to best use water for agriculture, and how to plan and construct canals.  There are 184 students slated for the program and the program is expected to expand in the future, said Mohammed.
Many people attended the celebration and some participated in Kurdish dance traditions, while others mingled.  Food was prepared and served buffet style and made available to all. After eating and serving a second round of chi, the leaders gathered together and were given a tour of the ruins.
“There are ruins here,” said Sheik Ali of Albayati. “The Griffin’s are at the gate of the palace and have been here even before the time of Assyria.”  While talking about the ruins, leaders exchanged smiles and were able to get to know each other better in a more relaxed setting.  “The history here; it’s so amazing,” said Johnson.  “We only have a couple hundred years of history, but the history here goes so far back.”

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Multi National Security Transition Command – Iraq

Hundreds Graduate Iraqi Military Academy       

BAGHDAD — The Basic Officers Commissioning Course at Ar Rustamiyah Military Academy graduated 241 IA and 134 Iraqi AF cadets, Jan 12.
The 12-month commissioning course paid special attention to leadership and ethics training, while instilling the values and standards required of the future leaders of the Iraqi military.  Additionally, the course syllabus covered tactics, weapons training, physical fitness, first aid, current affairs and geography.  Along with those completing the 12-month curriculum, cadets holding university degrees graduated after completing 6 months of intensive training.
Lt. Gen. al-Furayji, senior advisor to the Minister of Defense, and Lt. Gen. Frank Helmick, cmdr. of Multi National Security Transition Command – Iraq and NATO Training Mission – Iraq, presided over the ceremony.
The next Basic Officers Course starts in March, and in light of lessons learned from the current curriculum, will be 9 months in duration, and specifically designed for officer cadets who hold university degrees.
The Iraqi Military Academy of Ar Rustamiyah, or IMAR, was founded in 1924 by British forces. The academy, based on the Royal Military Academy in Sandhurst, England, graduated its first class of Iraqi officers in 1927.
NATO Training Mission – Iraq has supported IMAR since 2005. During the past 3 years, more than 2,000 officer cadets have graduated from the academy.

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U.S. Forces - Afghanistan

Afghan Commandos, CF destroy weapons cache in Ghorak district       

KABUL, Afghanistan – Afghan Commandos and CF conducted an air assault op in Ghorak district, Kandahar province, to search for IED cells, Dec. 27.
A search of the village yielded a weapons and supply cache. The weapons cache contained an anti-personnel mine, 2 anti-tank mines, and a bowl of unidentified powder presumed to be IED making material. The combination forces safeguarded 320 civilians before beginning their search.

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U.S. Forces - Afghanistan

CF maintain pressure on terrorist cell in Ghazni       

KABUL, Afghanistan – CF killed 2 armed Taliban militants while targeting the network’s kidnapping and roadside bombing ops in Ghazni province, Dec. 28.
In Gailan District, approx. 200 km NE of Kandahar, CF targeted a Taliban militant known to coordinate and carry out the kidnappings of Afghan officials and westerners to finance their criminal activities.  Additionally, the targeted Taliban militant is assessed to facilitate and direct roadside bombings along Highway One in Ghazni and Zabul provinces.
During the op, CF called for all individuals inside to exit the building peacefully.  Disregarding these instructions, the 2 militants engaged the force with small-arms fire.  In order to neutralize the threat, CF engaged the militants inside with hand grenades and killed them.
A search of the building following the op revealed multiple AK-47s.

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Dear Interested Reader,
The 3rd BCT assumes mission in Eastern Baghdad.  The 22nd Inf. Regt performs cordon and search ops with IA in Rashid.  A new bridge contract signing ensures increased opportunities.  Adhamiyah's al Talaba Sports Complex opens to a grateful community.  Capt. Fiordelisi trains Iraqi officer cadets.  In Afghanistan, a school opening is celebrated in Shahidi Hassas, while a tender story enfolds of American doctors giving an Afghan child a second chance at life.
Joanna
__________________________

Jan. 12, 2009

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

3rd BCT Assumes Mission in Eastern Baghdad

FOB LOYALTY - Soldiers of the 3rd BCT, 82nd Abn Div, formally partnered with Iraqi SF in eastern Baghdad during a transition ceremony, Jan. 5 at FOB Loyalty.
The 3rd BCT, 82nd Abn. Div., and its 3,500 Soldiers will partner with Iraqi SF in the safeguarding of 3 political districts in eastern Baghdad: Al Karradah, Rusafa and New Baghdad. The 3rd BCT will also assist the ISF in offensive military ops and protect the Iraqi populace during their deployment.
The 3rd BCT, 82nd Abn. Div. deployment comes at a historic time for the Iraqi people. The GoI is scheduled to hold provincial elections Jan. 31. National elections are also scheduled for later in the year.  "2009 will be a historic year for the people of Iraq," said Col. Timothy McGuire, cmdr. of the 3rd BCT, 82nd Abn. Div. "We look forward to doing our part to ensure lasting peace and prosperity for the Iraqi people."

Col. Timothy McGuire and Command Sgt. Maj. King Parks, senior enlisted leader of the 3rd BCT, unveil the brigade colors during a transition ceremony.
(Army photo by Staff Sgt. Alex Licea)

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ISF, MND-B Soldiers conduct combined security patrol in Rashid community

FOB FALCON

Iraqi 2nd Lt. Hamed (right), discusses the plan of action for early morning combined cordon and search operations, Jan. 8 with 1st Lt. Robert Ganim, a platoon leader from Co B, 1st Bn, 22nd Inf Regt, in the Saydiyah community of Baghdad's Rashid district.
(Army photos by Sgt. 1st Class Brent Williams)

Iraqi Army soldiers patrol with SSgt. David Bishop, an infantry squad leader assigned to Co B, and ofher CF Soldiers during combined security operations, Jan. 9. The Iraqi SF partnered with their MND-B counterparts to assess potential polling sites for the upcoming provincial elections, Jan. 31.

An IA Soldier digs for the keys to the lock of an empty house, as Spc. Richard Newton, a combat medic assigned to Co B,  waits in the rear during combined security ops, Jan. 8 in the Saydiyah community.

Iraqi NP joined Soldiers from Co B, visiting local Iraqi residences to check on security in the southern Baghdad community and enforce Baghdad's "Weapons-Free" Policy.

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Bridge contract signing ensures increased opportunities

BASRA - Commercial and residential traffic is expected to increase in Basra sometime next year now that a deal for a new bridge crossing the Shat Al Arab river was signed at Basrah Int'l Airport, Jan. 9.
The new bridge was designed by Iraqi engrs, and will be built by the local state owned company Ibn Majid.

Reps present for the At Tanummah bridge signing at the Basrah int'l airport on Jan. 9 included Ian Elliot of Mott McDonald; Sayad Muttar, Basrah Provincial Reconstruction Council Chairman; Maj. Shawn Beauchamp, MND SE contracts rep; Abd Al Mutalib, modeer for Ibn Majid; Mazin Samad, Dir. Gen. of Roads and Bridges, and U.S. Navy Capt. Robert Lansden, MND SE Civil-Military Ops Chief.
(Army photos by Capt. Jeff Johnson)

Abd Al Mutalib signs the At Tannumah bridge contract, while Maj. Shawn Beauchamp, MND SE contracts rep looks on.

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Adhamiyah's al Talaba Sports Complex opens

BAGHDAD - After the doldrums of any circumstance, hope is restored in new beginnings.  In the Qahira community, in Baghdad's Adhamiyah district, the Talaba Sports Center was reopened to the public Jan. 9, after an extensive refurbishing project Iraqis and CF undertook to improve the impoverished Shi'a neighborhood.
"There are approx. 80,000 residents that live in Qahira, and this is the only sports complex in the area," said Muhammad Madlom, Neighborhood Advisory Council chairman, "So, it is a good achievement for CF - and it is good they focus on and care about sports for youth because these guys are the future of this country.  It will have a huge psychological impact on them, as well as influence them for the good as they participate in sports."
"When we took over this area, we assessed all of the areas to see what nonlethal missions we could conduct to fight off a lethal threat.  And what we did was target an area that we thought needed the most help," said Capt. John Spencer, 1st CAB, 68th Armor Regt, 3rd BCT, 4th ID.  He said Qahira is an important neighborhood because it contains a preponderance of lower-income Shi'a and had, at one time, a substantial militia that campaigned against the GoI. Opening a sport center such as this, he explained, will have a huge impact on the community, which helps to counteract propaganda.
"If you create just a little bit of happiness for them, you'll create a lot of happiness within the community, which shows forward progression toward a better life," Spencer said. The sport center, which will be used predominantly by 6 schools in the area, is open to children of all ages. The complex, he added, has been well received by residents of the area.

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Airman Trains Iraqi Officer Cadets 

(By Senior Master Sgt. Trish Freeland) 

  

Capt. Tom Fiordelisi, an air adviser with the 321st Air Expeditionary Training Group, instructs situational leadership to Iraqi AF cadets at FOB Rustamiyah, Nov. 10, 2008.
Photo by Staff Sgt. Paul Villanueva II)

RUSTAMIYAH — Teaching leadership in a foreign land was never part of his career plan, but that’s exactly what Capt. Tom Fiordelisi has been doing for the last 12 months.  The leadership course he teaches is part of a grassroots training program that prepares cadets for careers in the Iraqi AF officer corps.
“Like any other 20-year-olds, you give them a challenge, make that challenge reasonable and attainable as a goal, and they’ll step up to the challenge,” said Fiordelisi.  “We are at the entry-level for officer training here at the Iraqi Military Academy Al Rustamiyah,” said Fiordelisi.  “These officers will climb though the ranks rapidly.  They will soon be lieutenant colonels, colonels and possibly even generals if they are fast-tracked.
“In the U.S. AF, we have quite a few mid-level leaders, the captains and majors that have core experience and are training our lieutenants and junior captains,” Fiordelisi continued.  “Iraq doesn’t have that mid-level mgt. experience.”  To fill the void faster and effectively, the Iraqi cadets spend a good portion of the year-long course focusing on English language training.   After the cadets successfully complete the English language course, they move on to officer-specific training including instruction in leadership and followership.  From there, Iraqi cadets get commissioned and enter career-specific training.
Cadet Hassan Ali not only excelled at mastering the English language, he also scored well on the pilot qualification exam.  But the training he found to be especially inspiring was the leadership-by-example he saw from Fiordelisi. “He was knowledgeable, kind and a very good leader,” said Hassan Ali.  “I saw the way he treated other people, and how he talks to his subordinates and the senior officers, and he was amazing for doing that.”

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General Appreciation

IA Brig. Gen. Ghasson, left, shakes the hand of U.S. Army Capt. Charcillea Barrett to show appreciation for coalition help with coordinating a blood drive for the Baswari Medical Services in Basrah, Dec. 31, 2008.
(Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Andre McIntyre)

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U.S. Forces - Afghanistan

School opening celebrated in Shahidi Hassas       

KABUL, Afghanistan – Afghan National Army (ANA) soldiers, CF and local Afghans celebrated the grand opening of a new school in Shahidi Hassas District, Oruzgun (Uruzgan) province, last Dec. 29, 2008.  The 9-classroom school opened its doors for the first time to students eager to register for class.
ANSF and CF helped hand out school supplies to the new students that included 80 notebooks, 50 backpack kits (notepads, pencil sharpeners and rulers), 50 pens, 200 pencils, crayons, colored pencils, erasers with Afghan flag logos, soccer balls, hand-crank radios, Afghan flags and ANA posters.

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U.S. Forces - Afghanistan

Special Operations, Coalition forces give Afghan child a second chance at life       

KABUL, Afghanistan - Shair Ahmad and his wife were living a parents' worst nightmare.  Their young son, Hamid, was desperately ill and Ahmad, a farmer from the Farah province, did not have the means to pay local doctors for his care.
At first, things had looked up for Hamid after his father was able to raise the money for one surgery at a hospital in Heart.  Doctors removed a giant tumor protruding from the child's left eye, and he did quite well for a few months.  Sadly, over the next 8 months, the mass returned and continued to grow.
Ahmad and Hamid, who is thought to be 5 or 6 years old, traveled to hospitals from Farah to Heart to Kabul, and even to Pakistan, but with limited money their efforts were mostly futile.  Finally, over a year after Hamid's plight began, his father brought him to see U.S. troops at a Special Ops Forces (SOF) clinic in Farah.  The SOF clinic had referred a number of suffering Afghans to Bagram Airfield doctors, and they believed Hamid's case was one that definitely warranted more extensive care.
"Our team in Farah sent us pictures of Hamid, which we evaluated and then passed along to TF MED. Their ophthalmologist and head and neck surgeon agreed to see and evaluate the boy," said Army Dr. (Lt. Col.) Andrew Landers, Combined Joint Special Ops TF-Afghanistan surgeon.
Shortly thereafter, the Farah PRT arranged a flight to bring Ahmad and Hamid to Bagram Airfield to meet with the doctors.  "A CT (computer tomography) scan revealed that Hamid had a noninvasive tumor of the eye, meaning the tumor had not yet invaded the skull. The tumor hadn't reached his brain at that point, but the growth would have continued to progress had it not been removed," Landers explained.  Medically speaking, Hamid was suffering from rhabdomyosarcoma, a fast-growing, malignant tumor.
Hamid underwent surgery on Dec. 26, in the care of Air Force Dr. (Maj.) Brian Moore, a head and neck surgical oncologist assigned to TF MED.  Moore and his team removed the tumor to the base of the skull and performed facial reconstruction.
"The surgery went extremely well; Hamid is healing without complication and he should be able to return to Farah shortly," Moore said. Hamid is expected to have recovered in 6-to-8 weeks and to return to Bagram to be fitted for a prosthetic eye.
Although the boy has hurdled one major obstacle, his future is still paved with uncertainty. Both Landers and Moore agree that follow-up care is imperative to Hamid's long-term survival.
The removed tumor was sent to Germany for further examination, and the results will help determine exactly what kind of supplementary treatment Hamid will need to have.  Arrangements could possibly be made to send Hamid to Pakistan for chemotherapy or radiation treatment, Moore said.  Without the additional care, the tumor may very well reappear. For now, however, Moore says he is thankful to have the opportunity to improve Hamid's current quality of life.
The care his son received meant the world to Ahmad, who openly expressed his satisfaction with the U.S. service members who have given Hamid a brighter future. "I cannot say 'thank you' enough.  For over a year I have worried constantly about my son, believing there was nothing that could be done for him.  Now Hamid is not in pain and the tumor is gone. I am grateful to the U.S. doctors," Ahmad said.
For his part, Hamid says little, but smiles shyly at visitors to his hospital room. He whispers to his father that he is looking forward to going home, where his mother, 6 brothers and 2 sisters are eagerly awaiting his return.

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Dear Interested Reader,
SSGT Derek Sheppard took the initiative to provide first-aid training to IP.  IA participates in Civil Military Program.  Iraqi SF leaders visit 3rd Bde to learn about tactical ops reporting procedures.  Iraqi engrs take over base projects at Q-West.  Iraqi NP mechanics train with Co F 505th PIR on vehicle maintenance.  Women's education a top priority.  New Div celebrates Iraqi Army Day.  In Afghanistan, the Afghan National Army and CF target car bombing networks in Khost and Kandahar.
Joanna
___________________________

Jan. 11, 2009

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

Medic takes initiative, provides first-aid training to Iraqi Police

FOB CALDWELL - A 10th CAB medic with Iraqi policemen assigned to his team took the opportunity to teach the local law enforcers some life-savings skills at FOB Caldwell Dec. 29 through Jan. 4.
SSgt. Derek Sheppard, senior co. medic, learned that the IP receive no formal first-aid training, while some IP's were assigned to the Pathfinders of Fox Co, 2nd Bn, 10th CAB.  Once he realized the need, Sheppard took it upon himself to offer the training during down time between missions.
"Being a medic, it is my job to ensure that the members of my team are all trained on the basics of first aid," Sheppard explained, saying that if the IPs were going to be a part of the Pathfinder team, they should have basic buddy-aid capabilities.
"I started out with how to control bleeding and progressed to how to apply a tourniquet," said Sheppard.  IPs don't usually handle first-aid issues.  IP 2nd Lt. Hamid said they are forced to rely on outside help if one of them is wounded, which is why the IPs appreciated the potential life-saving lessons.   "We don't normally get this training," Hamid said, "but because of excellent training from Pathfinders we are better.  We are stronger and can fight insurgents with confidence."

SSgt. Derek Sheppard, senior medic, Fox Co, demonstrates how to stop a bleeding leg wound.

SSgt. Sheppard demonstrates how to apply a tourniquet.

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Joint ops: Phase two of Iraqi Army civil-military program

BASRA - Grim expressions were replaced by smiles on children's faces as Iraqi soldiers passed out backpacks, notebooks and other school supplies during a humanitarian visit to grade schools, Jan. 9. This was the second combined-civil military mission made by Iraqi and U.S. forces in Basrah province.
In addition to schools, the team also visited an Abu Al Khasib fish market to assess what improvements are needed and a future playground site.  "There was good cooperation between the IA and the Americans," said Lt. Col. Abdalla, an engr and Chief Asst of Civil Military Ops for the 14th Div, through a translator. "I really appreciate the effort being put into this op."
Abdalla plays an intricate part in developing a civil-military program for the Iraqis.  He recently led a CMO training course for IA and IP.  Today's mission was the second application of this training. Their first mission was to a water lock a week ago that was damaged during the war. The lock is a system regulating how much salt water can enter fresh water rivers and canals, preventing damage to farmland and drinking water systems.
"This mission is a culmination of their training," said U.S. Navy Capt. Robert Lansden, chief of civil military ops for MND- Southeast. "Abdalla's troops were very friendly with the children."  Working with the Iraqis in a civil capacity isn't just required protocol to Lansden. It has become a part of his personal philosophy.  "This is their home," he said. "We are safer when we work with Iraqis.  We spent more than 5 months training Abdalla's civil-affairs team," Lansden said. "Now we roll together. We've really developed the first joint Iraqi civil affairs team."

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Iraqi Security Forces leaders visit 3rd Brigade

COB SPEICHER, TIKRIT -

Col. Walter Piatt, cmdr., 3rd IBCT, 25th ID, explains tactical ops reporting procedures to Iraqi SF leaders during a tour of the brigade's tactical ops center, Jan. 9.  ISF leaders from Kirkuk and Samarra visited the 3rd IBCT HQ before attending a TF Lightning cmdr's conference.
Pictured (from right) are: Col. Walter Piatt, cmdr., 3rd Bde., 25th ID, Maj. Gen. Mohammed, cmdr. Samarra Ops Center, Maj. Gen. Bakr, Kirkuk provincial director of police, and Maj. Gen. Redha, cmdr. IA 12th ID.
(Army photo by Staff Sgt. Tim Meyer)

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Iraqis take over base projects at Q-West

COB Q-WEST - As a sign of increasing Iraqi participation in infrastructure projects, a U.S. AF Facility Engr Team (FET) has made way for an Iraqi FET to take over, at least in part, base engineering and construction projects here.
"We are transitioning to a more active role for Iraqis in infrastructure projects," said U.S. AF Lt. Col David Anason, cmdr., FET 15, Q-West. "These projects give their engrs more experience, and allow them to train their own laborers, so that when we leave, they will be able to tackle their own problems."
The Iraqi engrs began their first large-scale road construction project here, Dec. 20.  The construction will reinforce entry and exit points into the Morale, Welfare and Recreation center ahead of future road construction on Main Street.  Mohammed, one of the Iraqi FET engrs who oversaw the project, said he was proud to be doing the work, and to be training other Iraqis to perform skilled labor roles.  "We have built IA bases and IP stations, and now we are working with the U.S.," Mohammed said. "We have learned a lot from the AF FET, and we have trained Iraqis. We will rebuild Iraq."
Mohammed, who initially worked as a translator for the Army in 2003, has had 6 friends assassinated, but said he never wavered, and that Iraq has turned a corner.  "There is no more AQI," Mohammed said. "We had to be patient; we had to stay, and they lost and we won."
The 555th Engr Bde, HQ at Joint Base Balad, has begun replacing military FETs with Iraqi engrs.  Leaders believe this will reduce the number of military engrs required, and free them to be used outside Q-West or possibly in other theaters.
At the Dept of Public Works, a quasi-official outlet of the Q-West Mayor's Cell that oversees Iraqi laborers of the Q-West Base Co, officials said the change from AF engrs to Iraqi engrs is having a positive effect with the Iraqi workers.  "The Iraqi FET is actually teaching the Iraqi workers and doing quality assurance," said Capt. Matthew Chargualaf, DPW officer in charge, 181st BSB, 16th Sust Bde.  "We're not going to be here forever. This is one of the ways the Iraqis are starting to work together."
Hamid, DPW masonry mgr, said he appreciated working with the Iraqi FET.  "I get a lot of good experience from the IFET engrs," Hamid said. "There's some small stuff I've learned, like using vibrations (to remove air pockets from the concrete). I am very grateful for the training."  The father of 9 from Qayyarah said he was confident in Iraq's future.
MSgt. Ricky Thomas, DPW NCO in charge, 181st BSB, said it was essential that Iraqi workers take over more projects and more responsibility.  "When we leave it's going to be Iraqis doing this," Thomas said. "This is their home, their community. The whole focus is to train the laborers to journeyman level.  We want to leave them with trades, skills that they can take back to their communities."

Mohammed explains to an Iraqi worker how to use the vibrating nozzle to remove air bubbles in the concrete.
(Photo by Sgt. Keith M. Anderson)

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NP mechanics train with MND-B Soldiers on vehicle maintenance

BAGHDAD - Maintenance superiority has been a consistent standard in order to keep a military force operational and ahead of its enemies in combat.  This fact was stressed when 10 NP mechanics partnered with Soldiers assigned to Co F, 2nd Bn, 505th PIR, 82nd Abn Div, in a joint vehicle maintenance training event, Jan. 5 at JSS Beladiyat.
Training events such as these allow CF to pass key lessons learned on vehicle maintenance, giving its Iraqi partners the advice they need to stay equipped and prepared to defend its country's security.  "The goal of the training was to help improve their maintenance program," said Capt. Jeremiah Corbin, cmdr. of Co. F. "We are providing them with the basic component identification, characteristics, trends and common faults of the humvee."
"They will be able to care for these vehicles in order to be effective in future military ops," said Chief Warrant Officer 3 Jason Barrett, maintenance technician for Co. F.  "The NP mechanics were eager to learn and frequently asking questions throughout the training."
This is the first in a series of training sessions between the 2 counterparts.  NP mechanics will focus on basic troubleshooting and how to properly conduct maintenance on a humvee transmission in the weeks to come.

Iraqi NP mechanics listen as Chief Warrant Officer 3 Jason Barrett explains the mechanical system of an M1151 up-armored humvee.
(Army photos by Staff Sgt. James Selesnick)

Iraqi NP mechanics watch as Sgt. Richard Allums, a mechanic with Co F, shows them the location of components under the hood of an M1151 up-armored humvee.

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Women’s Education a Top Priority     

(By Staff Sgt. Amber Emery, Multi-National Division – Center)

Iraqi women's committee reps sit together during a 2008 Women’s Council Social at the Rasheed Nahia City Center.

BAGHDAD — Not only has the safety and security situation in Iraq improved in the last year, but the educational system, especially for females, is also progressing.  For females, there are programs in place and educational centers in planning; and in Karbala alone, there are about 300 women running for office in the upcoming provincial elections.
“There is a need for programs like these, especially for females in rural areas, because they have been kept home for the last 5 years, and there have been a lot of school drop-outs,” said Zahraa Baker, bilingual bicultural advisor for women’s initiatives in MND - Center. “We are not only talking about adults; we are talking about young girls. Now, some of this is possible with the security situation changing.”
Women make up 60 to 65% of the population in Iraq, and in the MND-C area, 70% of the agricultural work force is made up of women.  “If we are talking about the women of Iraq, we are talking about a whole nation,” said Baker. “If we don’t educate them, then they have nowhere to go.”
“Right now, we are focusing a lot on the economic piece and getting women plugged into jobs; and a lot of times, that means teaching them how to read and write,” said Capt. Jennifer Glossinger, MND-C women’s initiatives coordinator. “One thing I am pushing is getting women’s initiatives tied in with the Agricultural Extension Centers, [which consist of agricultural programs and training].”
“In 2 of the smaller towns in Babil province, we will be opening women’s centers in a couple of months,” said Baker. “They couldn’t possibly have one in every village, but we are planning them in the smaller towns where females (in more rural areas) can travel.  I remember when I first came in with 3rd ID, the women’s initiatives program was very small still,” said Baker. “Now, everyone is talking about it clear up to the MNF-I level. So that is a big step.”
The most imperative part of the women’s initiative program here is to develop a plan for it to continue once CF are no longer in Iraq.  “It's really important to make sure programs are in place for the Iraqis to continue with these initiatives once we leave the country, or else all of the progress we have made will be for no reason,” said Glossinger.
To do this, a new directive will be implemented by MNC - Iraq for all BCTs to report progress to their HQ so that they can track successes and failures.
Coordination and plans for future efforts will continue during the Women’s Initiatives Seminar scheduled for Jan. 17 -18 on Camp Victory.

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New Division Celebrates Iraqi Army Day       

Maj. Gen. Ameer talks with Col. Matthew Russell, cmdr.18th Engr Bde, before a ceremony commemorating the annual IA Day.
(Photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Brian Short)

KIRKUK — The IA’s newly established 12th ID celebrated the 88th annual IA Day with a ceremony and lunch for local leaders at its div HQ, Jan. 6.  The sound of music from the 12th IA ID Band filled the atmosphere with joy and energy as newly promoted Maj. Gen. Ameer, cmdr., 12th IA ID, greeted everyone before the celebration.  “The IA is here for the benefit of the people - to work with the people, and to protect and provide security for the people,” said Ameer, during a speech to more than 200 people, including the Gov. of Kirkuk, members of the provincial council, approx. 25 local sheiks, and several U.S. military leaders.
“The new IA is stronger,” said Maj. Dawan Musbah, training officer. “We’re going to continue fighting until our country is free of terrorists.”  Musbah joined the Peshmerga, the Kurdish para-military org., in 1998 when Kurdish people were forbidden to join the IA. However, after the fall of Saddam Hussein’s regime, he entered the new Army in 2003. Musbah said he was honored to be part of the new IA.
Russell called the future of Kirkuk province exceptionally bright because of caring leaders such as Maj. Gen. Ameer who strive to bring all ethnic group views into the govt’s decision-making process.  “Gen. Ameer is a prime example of a very concerned leader who cares about the rights of all people – the Kurds, the Turkmen, the Arabs and the Christians,” Russell concluded.

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IA, MND-B Soldiers arrest suspected special groups criminal in Mansour

BAGHDAD - At approx. 10 p.m. in Mansour's Ghazaliyah community, Jan. 8, IA partnered with Soldiers of 5th Sqdrn, 4th Cav Regt, 2nd HBCT, 1st ID, arrested the suspected criminal pursuant to a warrant, after receiving a tip from an Iraqi citizen. The arrested criminal is believed to be responsible for emplacing IEDs in the Mansour district of northwest Baghdad.

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U.S. Forces - Afghanistan

ANA and CF target car bombing networks in Khost and Kandahar       

KABUL, Afghanistan – Afghan National Army (ANA) and CF detained 5 suspected militants, including the targeted Haqqani cmdr., during ops to disrupt the Haqqani and Taliban terrorist ops in Khost and Kandahar provinces, Jan 7.
ANA and CF netted 4 militants in the first op, including the targeted Haqqani cmdr. In Bak District, approx. 135 km southeast of Kabul City, the combined force targeted the Haqqani cmdr. assessed to facilitate suicide car bombings against innocent Afghans and CF in Khost province.  The captured Haqqani cmdr. is also believed to facilitate the movement of foreign fighters into the Khost region to carry out attacks.
In Zharmi District, roughly 30 km west of Kandahar City, CF detained a suspected militant during an op targeting a Taliban sub-cmdr.  He is known to direct and coordinate suicide bomb attacks against Afghan officials and civilians.

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Dear Interested Reader,
IP and Co B, 52nd Inf. Regt. soldiers deliver school supplies.  Soldiers from the 536th Maint. Co. worked 24 hours straight to build 70 flagpoles in support of the GoI independence.  Army Capt. Suzanne Todd teaches agriculture and veterinarian techniques to Iraqi farmers.  Ssgt James Jenkins awarded the Bronze Star and Purple Heart.  USAF helps Iraqi AF expand ops in Al Kut.  Weapons caches are sized throughout Baghdad.  In Afghanistan, CF disrupt IED cell in Farah.
Joanna
___________________________

Jan. 10, 2009

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

Iraqi Police, MND-B Soldiers deliver school supplies to al Yasmin School

HOR AL BOSH - Jan. 3, hundreds of smiling girls and boys received a special visit when IP and Soldiers of Co B, 52nd Inf Regt, attached to 2nd Sqdrn 14th Cav Regt, 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID, showed up at the school bearing gifts.  Several hundred boxes of crayons, pens, pencils and reams of paper were handed out to anxious children.  At times, the crowd surrounding both the ISF and Soldiers became a little overwhelming as they waited to receive the school supplies.  "These drops can get a little hectic," said Sgt. Jon Martin, infantryman assigned to Co B. "But once it's all said and done, it was worth it."
"The purpose of this mission is twofold," said Staff Sgt. Charles Bentley, a squad leader for Co B. "Delivering the school supplies to students in need, while simultaneously giving experience to the ISF as we continue to transition security over to the GoI."  For the infantrymen in Co B, the op was a welcome relief from their usual days of raids, cache searches and foot patrols.
"Working with the children is always a pleasure," said Staff Sgt. Philip Snook, an infantry team leader for Co B. "These ops are simple but also integral to our goals and to Iraq's future."

Iraqi Police and Sgt. Adam Brown, Co B, hand out school supplies.
(Army photo by Spc. Charles Joseph)

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Blackanthem Military News

Flags of Their Own

By SSgt. Rex Tran

Spc. Dennis Bibby, a machinist, Spc. Carl Weeks, a machinist, and Spc. Andrew Mills, light wheel vehicle mechanic are Soldiers of the 536th Maintenance Co, 419th CSSB, 10th Sust Bde, stack the flagpoles that they built for Iraq.
(Photo by Sgt 1st Class Crystal Izlar)

CAMP TAJI - The 536th Maint. Co. was notified that a shipment of 70 flag poles to Iraq could not be delivered due to bad weather in the U.S.  These Soldiers were given the mission by the brigade HQ to fulfill this very important mission to support the GoI's independence.  Like all Soldiers before them they came up with a solution and began to build the flag poles from scratch.  The Soldiers worked approx. 24 hours straight to meet the shipment date.  They completed 70 flag poles that were also equipped with the pulleys and tie downs needed to raise the flags.

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Soldier Teaches Techniques to Farmers       

Staff Sgt. Jody Metzger

Army Capt. Suzanne Todd, agriculture and veterinarian advisor with 425th CAB, helps Iraqi farmers throughout the region.

CAMP LIBERTY — Iraqi farmers, still struggling from 2 decades of neglect under the oil-focused regime of Sadaam Hussein, are finding a friend in Army Capt. Suzanne Todd.  Her appointment is the latest in Coalition efforts to rebuild the country and its resources to allow for Iraqi sovereignty, officials said.
After spending time in the Army Reserve, Todd decided to use the military’s financial help and go to veterinarian school.  Following graduation from Michigan State University, Todd joined the ranks of the Army as a veterinary officer.
Army Lt. Col. Arnold Csan, chief of the div’s civil affairs planning team, said Todd’s efforts have helped to create jobs.  “Since she's been here, she's gone out on missions to the vocational college and the vaccine center, both of which serve countrywide,” he explained. “Her focus as an agriculture expert for MND-B has been behind the largest employment of young men in Iraq.”  Todd has consulted with Iraqi farmers and veterinary hospital clinics and instituted a plan to redevelop the farming infrastructure.  “One of the things they have problems with is the salinity in the soil, because their traditional method of irrigation is flood irrigation,” she said. “They open up the flood gates of their irrigation canals, and they flood their fields with water. If there is a high salinity or salt content in the soil, which there is, that ends up in the water.”
There is a way to reclaim the land, she explained, but it takes a while to leach that salinity out of the soil. The water comes in the same way, but must be treated before it’s on the fields.  Since arriving in Baghdad, Todd has advised and introduced farmers to techniques such as drip-and-spray irrigation, along with pioneering the idea of employing a new variety of high-yield seeds.  Along with her work with the farmers and their irrigation and crop-growing needs, Todd also has done extensive work relating to the farm animals, which are equally important to the welfare and sustenance of the Iraqi people.  “If you consider agriculture, it also goes along with animal agriculture,” she said. “The animals that we raise to be our food – that’s where veterinarian medicine plays a role. We as veterinarians are concerned not only about the health of livestock we grow for food, but [also] how their health impacts our health. The diseases that the animals get can impact what diseases we get.”

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Combat Engineer Awarded Bronze Star       

By 2nd Lt. Jayson Hensley

BAGHDAD — SSgt. James Jenkins was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for his heroic actions in saving the life of a fellow combat engr. following an IED strike.  While conducting a route clearance mission on a particularly dangerous road in central Iraq on Nov. 22, 2008, the lead vehicle was struck by an IED.  Jenkins, deployed out of Bamberg, Germany, was in the lead vehicle.  As a result of the explosion, the vehicle cmdr. was seriously injured by a piece of shrapnel in his left leg.  Four other Soldiers sustained minor injuries, including Jenkins.
Immediately following the explosion, the Soldiers were administering first aid, when Jenkins noticed the leg of the vehicle cmdr. was bleeding. With assistance from the rest of the crew, Jenkins quickly applied a tourniquet to the injured leg and stopped the bleeding.
After the attack, Lt. Col. Christopher Lestochi, the cmdr. of the 54th Engr Bn, went to visit the injured Soldier in the 86th Combat Surgical Hospital.  While there, he was informed by doctors that “whoever applied the tourniquet saved the Soldier’s life.” 
Recognizing the heroism Jenkins showed, Lt. Gen. Kenneth W. Hunzeker, cmdr. of the U.S. Army V Corps, awarded him the Bronze Star and Purple Heart Medals while visiting Iraq immediately following the attack.  Gen. Hunzeker, along with Lestochi, pinned the medals on Jenkins in a ceremony in front of his platoon. The Soldier injured in the explosion is expected to make a full recovery thanks to the cool head and quick response of a fellow combat engineer.

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

USAF helps Iraqi Air Force expand operations in Al Kut     

FOB DELTA - The Iraqi AF is actively expanding its ops in Al Kut at FOB Delta.  Last summer, a small advance team from the U.S. AF arrived at the FOB to prepare the areas under Iraqi control for future ops.
A team of air advisors from the Coalition AF Training Team (CAFTT), part of Multi-National Security Transition Command-Iraq, helped Iraqi AF members build a relationship with their Army hosts by arranging meetings with FOB senior leadership and coordinating agreements for access to the base and basic communication issues.
IqAF Brig. Gen. Akeel, the Al Kut comm. gen., is leading the effort to rebuild the infrastructure inside the Iraqi compound as ops and support personnel settle into living areas.  Maj. Ryan Campbell was the CAFTT Detachment Cmdr. at FOB Delta when the expansion started.   He says CAFTT was instrumental in acquiring temporary living quarters and access to water while the Iraqis set-up their supply system.  “We had to be hands-on in the beginning since they were unfamiliar with living and working while completely integrated with CF,” said Campbell, who has since redeployed on another CAFTT mission. 
The current cmdr. of the detachment is Capt. Ciro de la Vega.  “Things are moving along at a steady pace.  The Iraqi leadership here is engaged, and they want to turn this into a premier AF base,” said de la Vega.  At FOB Delta, IqAF members will be living and working right alongside their Coalition counterparts, without being separated on their own section of the base.
Future mission plans include stationing Iraqi AF Mi-17 helicopters at the FOB, as well as an Intel-Surveillance-Recon ground station, for downloading data from ISR aircraft.  The IqAF is in the process of procuring fuel trucks to support aircraft and generator requirements.
FOB Delta, once known as Abu Obaida Air Base during the Saddam regime, is located in Wasit province near the city of Al Kut.  FOB Delta is currently the deployed home of a U.S. Army fires bde, as well as CF from Romania and El Salvador.

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IA, SoI, IP, MND-B Soldiers seize weapons caches throughout Baghdad

BAGHDAD -  Sons of Iraq members seized 19 57 mm projectiles in Baghdad's Tarmiyah area, Jan 6. They transferred the projectiles to the local IP.
IA Soldiers and Soldiers serving with Co B, 52nd Inf Regt, and 2nd Troop, 14th Cav Regt, 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID, discovered a cache that contained 2 155 mm projectiles, a 107 mm rocket, 17 57 mm rockets, 12 60 mm mortars, 2 60 mm mortar tubes, 12 RPGs, approx. 8,000 rounds of various calibers of small arm ammo, 12 blasting caps, a radio and 200 feet of detonation cord at approx. 1 p.m., Jan 7, north of Baghdad.
At approx. 11:15 a.m. Jan. 8, IA Soldiers working with Soldiers from Co B, 52nd Inf Regt, 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID working on a tip from a local citizen, seized 4 60 mm rockets and 3 warheads in Baghdad's Al-Raood area.
Approx. an hour later at 12:30 p.m., Soldiers from Co B, 1st Bn, 14th Inf Regt, 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID seized a 107 mm rocket, a bag of IED making materials, and an assortment of small arms near Taji, north of Baghdad, Jan 8.

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Blackathem Military News

Afghan, Coalition forces disrupt IED cell in Farah

By US Forces Afghanistan Public Affairs

KABUL, Afghanistan - Afghan NA Commandos with CF in support returned fire killing 6 militants during a raid on a compound in Kakhi Safyed district, Farah province, Jan 8.
The militants killed included a leader known for supplying weapons to militant forces and conducting attacks on Afghan National SF and CF.  Additionally, Commandos killed a known IED facilitator responsible for providing IEDs and IED-production materials to militant forces in Bala Baluk.  He also served as the chief bodyguard for a high-level Taliban cmdr.
 During the Commandos initial approach to the compound, militants engaged them with small arms fire from multiple fighting positions. The Commandos returned precision fire while maneuvering to protect both themselves and the civilian populace. The fight lasted approx. 2 hours.
A search of the compound revealed a weapons cache containing RPGs, AK-47s, sniper rifle systems, machine guns and ammo.  As part of the op, the combined forces also held a shura with village elders to explain the reason for the op and to express their commitment to establishing security in the area. Thirteen men, 38 women and 20 children were protected by the combined forces during the engagement.

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Dear Interested Reader,
A joyful reopening of a girls school in Tarmiyah.  Iraqi SF assume control of JSS Sheik Amir.  Iraqi NP spread cheer during blanket drive for widows and orphans.  There's going to be a Boy Scout cultural exchange Jan. 10, at Camp Victory.  Head of Iraqi Navy approves design review for Navy Piers at Umm Qasr.  Iraq NP graduates will bolster forces in Mosul.  Large weapons cache found in Diyala.  In Afghanistan, the U.S. plan to organize local militias to fight the Taliban.  Pakistan launches Khyber Pass offensive to support U.S.-led forces.
Joanna
_______________________

Jan. 9, 2009

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

School opens despite past violence

CAMP TAJI - The Huda Girls' School in Tarmiyah, northwest of Baghdad, officially reopened its doors Jan. 5, in a ceremony, featuring speeches, poems and songs. The school provides education to approx. 950 girls, who attend at various times throughout the day to accommodate the valuable education opportunity.
"This is really something big for the people. This is a fort of science," said Muhamad Jassim, administrative supervisor for the Ministry of Education (MoE) in Tarmiyah, about the opening of the school. "This is the largest school in the area."  The school has long been recognized by the MoE for its excellence in education, but in 2003, that excellence was threatened.
The building was the scene of significant violence, said Dr. Malcom Phelps, senior education advisor for the ePRT attached to the 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID.  After a cautious stability was reached in the area in 2006, Soldiers from the 1st Cav Div help to rebuild the badly war-damaged school.  Now that the school is open, it faces many of the same issues plaguing the entire education system of Iraq.  "We have so many students," Jassim said, adding that the girls now go to school in shifts to help alleviate the overcrowding. "We need more buildings, so we can effectively teach these students."

Approx. 300 girls stand in formation in the courtyard of the Huda Girls School during the official reopening. The school was under renovation since 2006.  A foiled terrorist plan set back the opening date almost a year.
(Army photos by Sgt. 1st Class Christina Bhatti)

Students patiently await the official reopening of the school.

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ISF assume control of JSS Sheik Amir

A rep from the IA receives an Iraqi flag from Capt. Michael McClure, Troop A, 2nd Sqdrn, 14th Cav Regt, ,2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID, cmdr., at JSS Sheik Amir, northwest of Baghdad, Dec. 31. The Security Agreement between CF and the GoI took effect Jan. 1, giving Iraqi SF control of the JSS. 
(Army photo by Sgt. Terrence Everheart)

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National Police spread cheer during blanket drive

BAGHDAD - Iraqi NP in partnership with Soldiers assigned to 1st Bn, 66th Armor Regt, 1st BCT, 4th ID, attached to the 3rd BCT, 82nd Abn Div, donated more than 400 blankets at a children's orphanage Jan. 3, in the Kamaliyah neighborhood of New Baghdad.
The donation was to help children and widows battle the chilly weather this winter where average temperatures can dip down into the low 40s.  "The blanket distribution was planned and executed by the ISF," said Capt. Benjamin Culver, fire support officer for the 1st Bn., 66th Armor Regt. "They continue to impress me by their willingness to secure the New Baghdad area and help the local community."

Iraqi Gen. Hassoun gives a wool blanket to a child.
(Army photos by Staff Sgt. Thomas Ribas)

Iraqi Gen. Hassoun (left) and Lt. Col. Scott McKean, cmdr. of the 1st Bn, 66th Armor Regt, sit with a child during a humanitarian blanket drive.

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MND-B hosts Boy Scout cultural exchange on Camp Liberty

WHO:        All media
WHAT:     Boy Scout cultural exchange between the Iraqi Victory Base Council scouts and Boy Scouts from the Long Horn Council in Temple, Texas, and Webelos Scouts from the Georgia-Carolina Council in Augusta, Ga., via video teleconference on Camp Liberty.
WHEN:    Jan. 10 at 4:30 p.m.
WHERE:   Camp Liberty.
WHY:     The event is being held to strengthen Iraqi-American relations, share info on the different cultures, give the children of both
America and Iraq the opportunity to see how similar they are to one another, and help foster the ideas of scouting in all three areas.

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

Iraqi Head of Navy participates in design review for Navy Piers at Umm Qasr     

UMM QASR - Preliminary designs for new piers at Umm Qasr were approved by Rear Adm. Jawad, head of the Iraqi Navy, during a Coalition-led design review conference held in Baghdad, Dec. 18.
Royal Navy Capt. Paul Abraham, Multi-National Security Transition Command – Iraq’s Maritime Strategic Transition Team director, said, “The Umm Qasr Pier and Seawall meeting marks the penultimate decision point for the delivery of the key piece of infrastructure for the future Iraqi fleet.”
The decision comes after Coalition partners spent weeks overcoming complex and challenging design issues for the largest Iraqi Naval construction project in MNSTC-I’s Foreign Military Sales program.  This project is the largest ever undertaken by the Iraqi Navy and is funded by the GoI.
Members of the Iraqi Navy and Ministry of Defense Infrastructure staff, the U.S. Army Corps of Engrs, and MNSTC-I’s J7 (Engr) and Security Assistance Office staff conducted planning and partnering sessions with the primary construction contractor to arrive at the optimal pier design.  “The road to this point has not been without its difficulties,” added Abraham, “but this in itself is a measure of success in Iraq, as the customer robustly reflects their requirements, while being exposed to the realities of global pricing and modern business practice.”
Valued at close to $50 million, construction for the pier project is set to begin in early 2009.  When the project is completed in late fall of 2009, the Iraqi Navy will be able to operate throughout the region more efficiently and effectively than before.  The improved naval piers and seawall will bolster their ability to patrol and protect Iraqi interests in the Gulf.

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

Iraqi National Police bolster 3rd Division forces     

NUMANIYAH – As part of the Iraqi NP’s continued growth, the majority of the 1,797 graduates here will be on their way to the Abu Risha Bde in Mosul, to assist in fighting terrorism and ensuring the safety and security of the citizens.
“These graduates have a difficult and challenging road ahead of them,” said Maj. Gen. Jerry Cannon, cmdr. of the Multi-National Security Transition Command – Iraq’s Civilian Police Assistance Training Team.  “They are now well-trained, well-equipped and are up to the challenges they face in maintaining a free, safe and democratic Iraq,” added Cannon.
Keynote speaker at the graduation was Iraqi Lt. Gen. Al-Awadi, Cmdr., Iraqi NP.  Much of the success and progress shown within the NP is credited to Al-Awadi’s leadership.  “He has been the right man at the right time to take this organization to even greater levels of success and achievement,” said Cannon.
This was the second class to graduate from the Numaniyah NP Training Academy utilizing all-Iraqi instructors.

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Weapons cache found in Diyala

DIYALA - IA forces, working with CF, uncovered a weapons cache west of Beijat, in the vicinity of Shilba, Diyala province, Jan. 6.  The cache consisted of 65 RPG rounds, 8 shotgun shells, 5 packages of explosives, 3 crush wires with battery packs and an automatic weapon.
"This represents another successful combined mission with Iraqi forces in the lead," said Maj. Chris Hyde, 1st Stryker BCT, 25th ID spokesman.

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The Guardian, 31 December 2008

US to harness Afghan militias against Taliban

The US yesterday outlined a controversial plan to organize local militias in Afghanistan to contain the growing strength of the Taliban, echoing tactics used by American cmdrs. in Iraq.
The program is formally an Afghan govt project with UN and US backing, but much of the impetus is believed to have come from US military cmdrs. hoping to replicate the SoI.
The Community Guard program will be launched as a pilot project in southern and eastern Afghanistan. The US envoy, William Wood, said the program was intended "to strengthen local communities and local tribes in their ability to protect what they consider to be their traditional homes".  US officials stressed that the community guards would not be based on the old tribal arbakai, but picked by local councils or shuras, which reflect the ethnic balance in each district.  "Once the group has been identified, they will receive training and clothing and other support," Wood said.
One of the first areas where the project will be tried is Wardak province that straddles the main road between Kabul and Kandahar. The road has been made virtually impassable by Taliban attacks in recent months.  Dec. 30, another of Nato's principal supply routes, the road through the Khyber Pass on the Afghan-Pakistan border, was closed by Pakistan, as it launched a new op against militants in the area.

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guardian.co.uk, Wednesday 31 December 2008

Pakistan launches Khyber Pass offensive to support US-led forces

Pakistan army tanks arrive at Jamrud, a town in the Khyber tribal area
(Photograph: Ameer Zada)

Pakistani helicopter gunships today launched attacks along the Khyber Pass as part of a new offensive to secure vital supply lines for western troops fighting Taliban insurgents in Afghanistan.
Authorities suspended the shipment of supplies to the Afghan border yesterday in preparation for the campaign to clear out insurgents who have destroyed hundreds of supply trucks in recent months.  "Two helicopter gunships pounded militant hideouts while troops moved with tanks to secure the area," said Jehangir Afridi, an admin. official in the Khyber region.
The US military praised the campaign and said the temporary closure of the road was not a problem.  Over 65,000 western troops in landlocked Afghanistan rely on the winding, mountainous road for delivery of up to 75% of their fuel, food and other goods, which arrive via the port city of Karachi in Pakistan.
Pakistani authorities did not say how long the pass would be sealed, only that they were determined to clear out the militants. Intel officials yesterday said troops had faced pockets of militant resistance, and 2 important hideouts had been destroyed.
In Afghanistan, US-led CF said they killed 11 militants during an op just outside Kabul.  The op took place yesterday about 40 miles (65km) NE of the capital in Surobi district, targeting a cmdr. wanted for trafficking weapons and fighters throughout the region. Two militants were killed by gunfire and 9 others with airstrikes during the op, the coalition said.
Speaking at an end-of-year news conference, Wood called 2008 a "good year but also a hard year".  Afghanistan, he said, saw progress in the fight against the cultivation of opium poppies, the main ingredient in heroin, with land for their production reducing by almost 20%.

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Dear Interested Reader,
Marine mechanics teach IA basic vehicle maintenance.  U.S. and Iraqi NCOs partner to establish educational system.  Technology improves NCO training at Tallil.  Take a stroll with IA and Troop B, 82nd Abn in Baghdad's Rusafa district.  IP spread joy at local school with help from 340th MP Co.  U.S. forces transfer Riyadh Train Station to Iraqis.  IA Engr. Co. continue partnership with Co B, 40th Engr. Bn.  Iraqi aircraft structural training off to promising start.  Large weapons cache seized, and criminals detained.  In Afghanistan, joint Afghan NSF and Int'l Security Assistance Force op leads to hope in Helmand.
Joanna
____________________________

Jan. 8, 2009

Marines Turn Wrenches with Iraqi Soldiers     

By Lance Cpl. Jacob A. Singsank

Cpl. Jaimey C. Syvruv helps an Iraqi Soldier troubleshoot a heater problem on a Humvee during vehicle maintenance training, Dec. 31, 2008.
(Photo by Lance Cpl. Jacob Singsank)

CAMP MEJID — U.S. Marine mechanics traveled to this Iraqi camp to teach Iraqi Soldiers basic vehicle maintenance, Dec. 31.  “This is the first time we worked with Iraqi Soldiers at their camp instead of our maintenance area,” said GSgt. Duane E. Black, motor transportation maintenance plt cmdr., Combat Logistics Bn 2. “We can train more of their mechanics at the Iraqi maintenance bay because they all can’t come over to our shop.”
For more than a year, Iraqi mechanics here have been traveling to the American side of the base for Humvee maintenance training. No more than 5 Iraqi Soldiers would show up every Wednesday to learn about maintaining their military vehicles.
During the last year, Marines have been standing back and advising instead of maintaining the vehicles for them.  “We’re here to watch over the Iraqi Soldiers and observe them work on Humvees,” said Lance Cpl. Jaimey C. Syvruv, 22, motor transportation mechanic, CLB-2, 1st MLG. “We're standing back and letting them do the work so they can become more self sufficient.”
“I’ve seen improvement over the last few months,” said Lance Cpl. Cody M. Carpenter, 21, MT mechanic, CLB-2, 1st MLG. “The Iraqi Soldiers have retained all the skills and information we taught them.”  The Iraqi Soldiers are now able to install all major components, repair common mechanical problems and maintain the vehicles they use on a daily basis.
“Before the Americans came, we didn’t know a lot about vehicle maintenance,” said Iraqi Warrant Officer Rasheed, command center maintenance chief officer.  “Because they have trained us, we’re now completely capable of doing the job on our own.
I’m very, very happy because the Americans brought the experience to fix vehicles to us,” said Rasheed, 32. “When the Americans leave, I will greatly miss their support and more importantly, our friendships.”

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

Iraqi, U.S. NCOs partner to establish educational system     

Baghdad – The Iraqi NP may soon gain a valuable tool in the professional development of their enlisted force.  A Sergeant Major Academy on the grounds of the Sader Al-Kanat NP Training Academy would be the first advanced NCO professional development program specifically designed for the Iraqi NP.
The academy may soon become a reality due to the efforts of Command Sgt. Maj. Gary Bronson, senior enlisted NCO in the Directorate of Interior Affairs, Multi-National Security Transition Command-Iraq; Sgt. Maj. Grant Jones, Ministry of Interior Training Team; and Iraqi Command Sgt. Maj. Magiad, senior NCO for the Iraqi NP.  Along with several other senior NCOs from both organizations, they hope to have the Sergeant Major Academy up and running by the middle of February 2009.  “This is the right step for the future of our force,” said Magiad.  “This academy would provide a common level of instruction for our senior NCO’s that is tailored for the NP.”  Although there are 2 NCO classes/courses tailored for NCOs, there currently exists no professional NCO education system for members of the NP once they graduate from their initial 12-week training course.  “Some of the curriculum will be tailored from U.S. NCO academies, but in the end this will be an Iraqi-run academy that will raise the professionalism of the entire force,” said Bronson.

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

Technology improves noncommissioned officer training at Tallil     

By Army Maj. Danl Connelly

TALLIL — Building on the success of military occupational specialtly training courses, the IA Regional Training Center at Camp Ur incorporated computer technology into the instruction of the NCOs professional development courses that graduated Dec. 31.
Key to improving the professionalism of the Iraqi Army NCO Corps, the Corporal’s Course and Sergeant’s Course included training in ethics, the role of the Iraqi NCO, land navigation, reporting, checkpoint ops and military ops in urban terrain. The courses were taught to 69 corps and 43 sgts.
IA Sgt. Maj. Hussain, NCO in charge of the courses said, “This was our first cycle to instruct using computers and projectors (Power Point). This made the instruction better for the students.”

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

IA, MND-B Soldiers partner for Rusafa patrol

JSS MUTHANA - 

 An IA Soldier, partnered with Soldiers assigned to Troop B, 5th Sqdrn, 73rd Cav Regt, 3rd BCT, 82nd Abn Div, conducts a joint dismounted patrol, Jan. 2 in Baghdad's Rusafa district.
(Army photos by Staff Sgt. James Selesnick)

IA soldiers, partnered with Paratroopers assigned to Troop B, speak to local citizens.

IA soldiers, partnered with paratroopers, speak to local citizens at a market.

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Iraqi Police spread joy at local school

BAGHDAD - 

Col. Mahdy, cmdr. of Al Jadida Local Police Station addresses students of Al Musqdad Primary School before distributing school supplies, clothing and sporting equipment to the children, Jan. 4. The IPs distributed more than 65 boxes of goods, donated by Soldiers of the 340th MP Co, TF 91 MP, 8th MP Bde, to the children.
(Army Photo by SSgt. Jessika Malott)

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U.S. forces transfer Riyadh Train Station to Iraqis

FOB WARRIOR, KIRKUK - The new security agreement and improved security in Riyadh made it possible for CF to transfer the Riyadh Train Station, known by CF as Patrol Base Howell, back to the Kirkuk Dept of Transportation, Jan. 3.
"The train station transfer went smoothly and the sounds of trains signal a return to normalcy," said Dr. Mahmood, Dir. of Transportation for Kirkuk province, at a transfer ceremony held at the station by local Iraqi govt officials and CF.
The transfer is a major step toward restoring the rail service in Kirkuk province.  The remaining task is to complete the final span of the Bayji Railroad Bridge linking the Kirkuk rail line with the Samarra-to-Bayji line.  "Once the train station is functioning, it will help energize the economy as well as decrease the number of commercial vehicles travelling on the roads," said Riyadh Mayor Hussein.
CF also noted the significance of the event.  "I'm honored to be here this morning among you to mark the transfer of the Riyadh Train Station from CF to the people of Iraq," said Lt. Col. Kenneth R. Casey, cmdr., 1st Bn, 67th Armor Regt, attached to 3rd IBCT, 25th ID. "Today represents one of the many transitions happening across Iraq, with the improved security situation provided by the IP, IA, SoI and U.S. forces."
Casey noted the transfer plays an important part in CF efforts to start giving their areas of responsibility back to the Iraqis. "Patrol Base Howell is a great example of what U.S. forces are trying to do, which is to return facilities back to the Iraqis to use for their intended purposes," Casey said.  PB Howell has sheltered CF for more than a year, and many Soldiers have called this place a home. "It's hard for us to leave because this has been our home for a while," said Capt. Thomas Strum, cmdr., D Co, 1st Bn. 67th Armor Regt. "It's been great to live so close to the people that we serve here in the town of Riyadh, but it's an important step forward."
"We'll move on and continue to do what we do," said 1st Sgt. Michael Oliver, D Co., 1st Bn. 67th Armor Regt. "Although we're not here, we're still going to help them build a better country."
"The movement of American forces within Iraq shows the people that there is validity to the security agreement," said Sturm. "This is definitely a symbol of Iraqi sovereignty."

Capt. Thomas B. Sturm and Dr. Mahmood, knock down the last temporary wall by the Riyadh Train Station.
(Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Brian L. Short)

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ISF, MND-B Soldiers arrest 2 suspected criminals

BAGHDAD - Jan. 6 in the Rashid district of southern Baghdad, at approx. 9:45 a.m. in the Bayaa community, ISF partnered with Co A, 1st Bn, 22nd Inf Regt, 1st BCT, 4th ID, arrested 2 individuals suspected of conducting an attack on CF.
IA Soldiers partnered with Soldiers from Co. B, 1st Bn., discovered a battery with a timer attached, at approx. 2:15 p.m. in the Saydiyah neighborhood.

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9th IA Div., MND-B Soldiers continue partnership

BAGHDAD - IA and CF Soldiers conducted a combined op, in accordance with the Security Agreement, in Baghdad's the Al Rasheed area Jan. 3.  Very little has changed with the way the recon patrols are run in the area. IA from the 1st Engr Co, and Soldiers from Co B, 40th Engr Bn, 2nd BCT, 1st Armored Div, have been operating with the IA in the lead for weeks before the Security Agreement took effect Jan. 1.
"The IA (engrs) surprise me a lot. They like going out," said Sgt. Russell Slaven, combat engr with Co B. "This is the group I trained with," he said, with a note of pride in his voice. "They found 3 IEDs during training in 35 minutes. None of the other groups were even close."
Sgt. Balad, the Iraqi sgt in charge of the patrol, said he liked working with the B Co. engrs and was glad they had provided him the training he had received.  "We succeed at our job because we like it," he said. "I like being an engineer, and I will stay in the Army as an engineer."
Private Ali, the gunner on Balad's Badger, said he has started to see more people cooperating with the IA due to the visible cooperation between Coalition and Iraqi SF.
When the convoy returned to al Rasheed, there was a small ceremony for the IA soldiers. Each Iraqi engineer was awarded a certificate stating he had completed his training from Co B, 40th Engr Bn.

IA Sgt. Ali Balad (back left) looks on as one of his soldiers is presented a certificate of training from Capt. John Holcombe, Co B, 40th Engr Bn, cmdr., for successfully completing his training on route-clearing techniques.
(Army photo by Staff Sgt. Scott Wolfe)

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Iraqi Aircraft Structural Training off to Promising Start 

(By Senior MSgt. Trish Freeland)    

Iraqi AF Warrant Officer Saaed marks the cutting radius of his replacement sheet metal during the aircraft structural maintenance course at Al-Taji Air Base, Nov. 24, 2008.
(Photo by SSgt. Paul Villanueva II)

TAJI AIR BASE — U.S. Airmen involved in the rebuilding of a new Iraqi AF enjoyed many successes in 2008.  Among those success stories is the Basic Aircraft Maintenance (BAM) Course being conducted at the Iraqi AF Training School here.  The course is an entry level aircraft familiarization course covering general aviation, flightline safety and basic aircraft/helicopter system knowledge.  It provides the foundation for follow-on aircraft and specific system training.
An off-shoot of the BAM course is the Aircraft Structural Maintenance Course (ASMC) which is being taught for the first time.  The lead instructor is Master Sgt. Joel Little, an aircraft structural maintenance instructor/advisor with the 821st Expeditionary Training Sqdrn.  The 821st ETS is part of the Coalition AF Training Team, one of numerous advisory teams assigned to Multi-National Security Transition Command – Iraq.
“This is a work in progress, just to kind-of see what things we need to teach to a further degree, and what things can we possibly back off of,” said Little.  “The most important thing is determining what our Iraqi counterparts need from us, so we can tailor the course to their needs.”
In U.S. AF technical training schools, aircraft structures training lasts about 4 months.  But the version created for the Iraqi Airmen has been scaled down to 26 academic days. Iraqi AF senior leaders advised their instructors on which key areas to build the course around.  “With time constraints here in Iraq, we had to condense this course,” said Little.   “There were some things they were not concerned about their Airmen learning, so we tailored the course to what they wanted.”
Little started the course with 4 students, but through academic attrition the class is down to 2.  Warrant Officers Mohammed and Saaed are the 2 remaining students.  Mohammed worked with sheet metal in high school while Said is new to structural training.  “I’m enjoying it so far,” said Mohammed. “I really want to be a proficient technician in my unit.”  Added Saaed, “I want to be a winner at the job, serve my country and make it safe for others.”  He hopes to one day teach the course.
The course is designed to handle 22 students at one time.  There are 2 labs set up, so courses can be taught over a 2-shift op.  Once such a class size is available, Little and his staff will be able to graduate more technicians as well as train a cadre of Iraqi instructors to take over teaching the course.  “When they’re out there doing it themselves they’ll remember who helped them get to that level,” said Little.  “That’s the thing I’ll cherish the most…just knowing I left something they could use.”

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Weapons cache found in Shilba

Diyala - IA soldiers uncovered a weapons cache, after receiving a tip, in the vicinity of Shilba, Diyala province, Jan. 5.  The cache consisted of 6 RPG launchers, approx. 50 RPG warheads, a 130-mm round with fuse, a 122-mm rocket, approx. 50 miscellaneous rockets, a Dishka machine gun with several cases of rounds, detonation cord, IED materials, small arms rifles with rounds and bipods, and 3 IP blue vests.
 "Finding this cache is especially significant for 2 reasons," said Maj. Chris Hyde, 1st Stryker BCT, 25th ID spokesman. "First, this was an enormous cache and will certainly make a large dent in the enemy's ability to project terror on the people of the region. Second, it was the IA acting on their own who found this cache. This should send a message to insurgents and terrorists throughout the region that the GoI has a good hold on the situation, and are consistently proving their validity and significant abilities."

IA soldiers lay out a weapons cache.

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Jan 4, 2009 - 10:03:11 PM

Blackanthem Military News

Joint ANSF, ISAF operation leads to hope in Helmand

By ISAF/NATO

KABUL, Afghanistan - The Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF) together with the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) have successfully conducted the first phases of Op SOND CHARA (Red Dagger). This op was necessary to provide better security to Lashkar Gah and its surroundings, following the attacks on October 11, 2008. The conditions have now been set for Voter Registration early this year and the execution of the Counter Narcotics plan by the Civil Military Mission in Helmand, as part of a comprehensive strategy.
Gov. Mangal of Helmand Province was instrumental in the planning of this op, as it allowed him to extend the authority of the legitimate govt of Afghanistan, in an area that was previously under Taliban influence.  At his Security Shura attended by 160 tribal elders in early December, he assured everyone that under his leadership, the govt would make improvements to security throughout Helmand a key priority.   Speaking at the Shura, Governor Mangal, said:  "It has been a hard year for our brave police and soldiers, but it has been a much harder year for the enemies of the people.  Our enemies have lost more men and many cmdrs.  They will not win."
While hosting a news conference in Kabul recently, Brigadier General Zazai, Cmdr. of 205 Hero Corps, stressed that "the ANSF were involved in detailed collaborative planning," while the Helmand Provincial Reconstruction Team was consulted at a very early stage, to advise on the construction of an effective immediate stabilisation plan.
Nad-E-Ali was chosen as the focus for the op, as it was the springboard from which the attacks of October 11 were launched, and it is home to a large population that is eligible to vote.
Cmdr. Paula Rowe, spokesperson for TF Helmand, comprising British, Danish and Estonian forces, summed up the op by saying:  "Some very hard fighting, in often appalling conditions, has gained the Afghan Govt more effective control over an area which has been the source of instability since the Summer of 2008.  AFNS, with the support of ISAF troops, have been successful in driving away enemy forces from the Nad E'Ali area, and are fully committed to maintaining lasting security for the people there."
She went on to list some of the specific achievements by saying:  "Insurgent influence over 180 square kms has been reduced considerably, and 4 urbanised areas now have a permanent Govt presence, where there was none before.  About 1000 Kilos of narcotics have been found and destroyed, together with a large number of weapons and ammo, including 107 mm rockets."
Now, the stabilisation phase will start.  A number of cash for work projects are organised and projects are in place to rehabilitate a Community Health Centre and a school.  Teachers, local leaders and other people from the area congratulated the Chief of Police Sherzad and members of the PRT for retaking this area. The transition of places from a defensive position to an active village has been impressive to see.
As a result of this ANSF op supported by ISAF troops, there is hope again in Lashkar Gah and its surroundings.

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Dear Interested Reader,
Soldiers from Charlie Co., 25th ID set up a pen pal program between kids of Samarra and Michigan.  IA soldiers learn advanced medical skills, while Marine transition teams train IP, IA and Border Patrol.  Al Karadah Civil Support Training Center reopens.  1st Bn, 319th Abn FAR assumes responsibility at FOB Rustamiyah.  In Afghanistan, CF target road side bombers in Zabul, and the Gov. of Farah meets with Marine Corps leaders.
Joanna
________________________________

Jan. 7, 2009

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

New Friends

An Iraqi school girl from Samarra receives a drawing from a girl in Michigan.  U.S. Soldiers from Charlie Co, 2nd Inf Bn, 35th Inf Regt, 3rd BCT, 25th ID set up a pen pal program between the kids of Samarra and the kids of Michigan on Dec. 30, 2008.
(Photo by Sgt. Kani Ronningen)

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IA Soldiers learn advanced medical skills

COB ADDER - Approx. 15 IA medics completed advanced combat medical skills training at Camp Mittica, near Tallil Air Base, in southern Iraq, Dec 31.  IA Soldiers attended the class offered through a continued partnership with the 27th BSB, 4th BCT, 1st Cav Div.
SSgt. Junior St. Hilaire and Staff Sgt. Willie Gray, 27th BSB medics, taught the 10-day course which covered combat casualty care, basic pharmacology and how to evaluate casualties.  "I really like to train with the U.S. Army and train on their
equipment," said Iraqi Pfc. Chassid Borhan, during one of the previous classes. "We like to learn their ways of medical care, so we can make ours better."
"The IA medics seem anxious to learn medical skills," said St. Hilaire. The 27th BSB is planning to implement a "train-the-trainer" phase to the monthly course, enabling the IA Soldiers to sustain their own force and strengthen their medical capabilities.

An IA medic administers intravenous fluids to a fellow Soldier.
(Army photo by 2nd Lt. Melanie Kwan)

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Marine Transition Teams Train Iraqi Police, Army, Border Patrol       

By Lance Cpl. Jacob A. Singsank

Lance Cpl. David K. Lutz, 1st Marine Logistics Group, secures a chain to a refrigerated container so Marines can lift it into place with a 25-ton crane, Dec. 21, 2008.

AL ASAD — Five years into OIF, CF continue to concentrate their efforts on professionalizing the IA, Army and Border Patrol.
Marines are making progress to transfer security missions here to Iraqis by providing military, police and border transition teams.  “We embed with the transition teams, and live with them for 4 to 5 days at a time,” said 1st Lt. Daniel Rodriguez, logistics officer, BTT 5th Bn, 6th Bde, 2nd Region.
Marines and Sailors with Transportation Support Co (TS), Combat Logistics Bn 2, 1st Marine Logistics Group (MLG), play a vital role in providing logistical support for the MTT, PTT and BTT teams in western al Anbar province.  “It’s imperative that we get the transition teams the supplies they need for them to be mission capable,” said 1st Lt. Aaron L. Serrano, 28, convoy cmdr., TS Co., CLB-2, 1st MLG.
TS Co. consistently performs combat logistics patrols to Camp Gannon delivering food, water, repair parts and other equipment required for the transition teams to operate. “Our mission is to train, mentor and advise the dir. of border enforcement,” said Rodriguez, 25.  “We trained them to interdict foreign fighters, facilitators and smugglers, and secure the Iraq-Syrian border.”
The transition teams are teaching the Iraqis how to handle weapons, conduct dismounted and mounted patrols, and develop leadership skills.  “We’re focusing on building stability with the IP, Army and Dept of Border Enforcement,” said 1st Lt. John A. Meyer, Co. K EO, 3rd Bn., 7th Marine Regt, RCT 5.
Marines with the transition teams are also working every day developing the local economy and govt in the area. “We conduct leadership engagements with IP chiefs, school headmasters, and city council members,” said Meyer, 26. “We give them guidance and advice to function as a community.”
“The biggest success that the transition teams have had in the region is they’ve been able to get the different Iraqi units to meet on a regular basis and coordinate their ops in order to bring security to the region,” said Rodriguez.
“The Iraqis have progressed so much over the years, there’s less of a need for us to be out here,” said Meyer. “The Iraqi people are able to stand and function on their own.”

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Al Karadah Civil Support District Training center opens

FOB LOYALTY - District leaders, administrators and hundreds of students attended the reopening of the Civil Support District Training Center in Baghdad's Al Karadah district, Dec. 30.
Soldiers from the 1st Bn, 319th Abn FAR, 3rd BCT, 82nd Abn Div, were also in attendance to assist in security measures and meet the center's administrators in a show of partnership.  The center teaches students vocational skills, offering courses in road repair, generator repair, plumbing, electrical installation, sanitation and landscaping.
More than 550 students are currently enrolled at the center.  Students must complete a 6-month training course in their desired career paths and pass a final written exam in order to graduate.
Hazim, 27, is a plumbing student who is looking forward to a new life his education will provide. "I have no job, and I'm looking for work experience in order to build a better future for myself," he said "If I listen to my professors and study hard, I know the future is looking good for me."
Classes for women are scheduled to begin later this year.

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Blackanthem Military News

1st Bn., 319th Abn. FA Regt. assumes responsibility at FOB Rustamiyah

By Staff Sgt. Alex Licea

FOB RUSTAMIYAH -

 Paratroopers assigned to Btry A, 1st Bn, 319th Abn FAR, 3rd BCT, 82nd Abn Div, render honors during a transition ceremony Dec. 31 at FOB Rustamiyah. The 1st Bn., 319th FAR, based out of Fort Bragg, N.C., transitioned with Soldiers of the 5th Bn, 25th FAR, 4th BCT, 10th Mtn Div. The paratroopers will assist Iraqi SF in the Al Karradah district of eastern Baghdad during its 12-month deployment.

 Lt. Col. William McRae, cmdr. of 1st Bn, 319th, along with Command Sgt. Maj. Steven Payton, the bn's senior enlisted leader, unveil the bn colors.

The honor guard detachment assigned to 1st Bn, 319th, hold the national and bn colors side by side.

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Sharing Treats

First Lt. John Mullany, Co. B, 2-8th Inf. Regt., 2nd BCT, 4th ID plt leader, and his interpreter give desserts bought from a local vendor to some children during a combined patrol in Hamza, Dec. 30. (Army photo by Sgt. Rodney Foliente)

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Supplies for Iraqi Children

Sgt. Jeramy Storrer, an armor crew member and Staff Sgt. Matthew Rigge, an Abrams tank cmdr., unload soda while 1st Lt. Jason Behler, an armor plt leader picks up school bags and supplies, Jan. 3. The Soldiers, assigned to Co C, 1st Bn, 22nd Inf Regt, 1st BCT, 4th ID, brought the supplies to the Jihad Neighborhood Advisory Council in the Rashid district of southern Baghdad, to distribute to Iraqi orphans from schools in western Rashid district.
(Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Brent Williams)

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Well Done

Army 1st Sgt. David Bernosky congratulates an Iraqi Soldier on a job well done in Basra, Jan. 1, 2009.  Bernosky is assigned to the 304th CAB.
(Army photo by Spc. Karah Cohen)

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High-five

Army Spc. Amber Stephens greets Iraqi children near the site of one of three schools under construction in Budayr, Dec. 23, 2008.  Stephens is assigned to the 982nd Combat Camera Co.
(AF photo by Senior Airman Eric Harris)

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Blackanthem Military News

Coalition forces target road side bombers in Zabul

By US Forces Afghanistan Public Affairs

KABUL, Afghanistan - CF killed 8 armed Taliban militants and detained a suspected militant during an op to disrupt the foreign fighter and roadside bomb network in Zabul Province, Dec. 31.
In Arghandad District, approx. 120km northeast of Kandahar City, CF targeted a Taliban sub-cmdr. wanted for his ties to the roadside bombing network along Highway One, and recent attacks against CF in Zabul Province.  He is also assessed to traffic foreign fighters into the region.
During the op CF gave explicit instruction for all individuals to exit the building peacefully.  Adhering to the instructions, 4 women and 10 children exited and were protected by the force and moved to a safe location.  Several armed militants refused to exit the compound.  These militants presented a threat to the force and had to be engaged with small-arms fire, killing 6.  A search of the targeted compound revealed multiple AK-47 assault rifles, pistols and hand grenades.
As CF left the targeted building armed militants moving along a nearby ridge attempted to maneuver on and engage the force.  Realizing the imminent threat, CF engaged the militants with precision close-air fire support, killing 2 armed militants.

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Blackanthem Military News

Governor of Farah meets with Marine Corps leaders

By 1st Lt Stewart M. Coles

Governor Amin (left) talks with Col. Duffy W. White (right) during a meeting to discuss security, logistic and economic progress in Farah Province, Jan. 3, 2009.  White, cmdr. of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground TF - Afghanistan, attended the meeting to introduce himself and make known his support to Amin.
(Marine Corps photos by Lance Cpl. Brian D. Jones)

FARAH PROVINCE, Afghanistan - Key leaders of the Farah province met with senior leaders of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground TF - Afghanistan Jan. 3, 2009, to discuss the alliance's progress and security advancements in the southwestern province. Key military and SF leaders also engaged Amin on such topics as ongoing ops, budgetary expenses and policy in the region.  Discussed were several of the positive effects seen in Farah Province, including revised legislation, progress in the logistical support of Afghan forces, increased security patrols, improved commerce and the building of schools and improvements in infrastructure, all of which support ongoing counterinsurgency ops.
"Where the Marines work with district leaders, there is really good coordination," said Amin of his experience of working with U.S. Marines.  Marines and sailors with 3rd Bn, 8th Marine Regt (Reinforced), and Combat Logistics Bn 3, the ground and logistics combat elements of SPMAGTF-A, are working diligently to clear highway roads of IEDs and other threats, to improve security and infrastructure in the region.  "It's getting better every day," said Amin. "We should continue this. There may be some problems, but we should keep going on. We will continue working well with others."

 

Col. Duffy W. White (2nd from left), and Lt. Col. David L. Odom (third from left), listen intently to comments by Gov. Amin (left).  Odom is the comm. officer of 3rd Bn, 8th Marine Regt.

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Dear Interested Reader,
Abu Ghraib hospital now receives constant electric power.  GoI takes over Diyala's SoI program from CF.  Lifeblood of fresh water returns to Iraqi farms.  Iraqi orphans grateful for donated clothes, toys and school supplies.  The Bakiryah School celebrated a joyful reopening.  Suspected terrorists arrested throughout Iraq, and large weapons cache seized.  In Afghanistan, Afghan Commandos and CF pursue insurgents in Herat province.
Joanna
_____________________________

Jan. 6, 2009

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

Abu Ghraib Hospital Lights the Way       

(By Capt. Benjamin Roark)

A newborn baby sleeps in an incubator at the Abu Ghraib Hospital, west of Baghdad.

ABU GHRAIB — For the first time in many years, the Abu Ghraib Hospital recently turned on its lights without having to count down the hours until the lights went out again.  After several months of planning and work, the Hospital started receiving constant power through an 11kv power line that stretches nearly 1.5 kilometers back to the Al Ban Substation.
The new power line is exempted from the load-shedding plan that forces substation ops to ration limited power to the various neighborhoods connected to it on a 2 hours on and a 4 hours off schedule, said Capt. Mark Gillman, who serves as an engr, assigned to 2nd Stryker BCT “Warrior,” 25th ID.
Periodic stoppages throughout the day have long hindered treatment, particularly for inpatients. The 50-bed hospital is the primary inpatient facility in west Baghdad and serves more than 200,000 residents from Khadamiyah to Balad.

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GoI takes over Diyala's SoI program from CF

DIYALA - The GoI officially took over the SoI program in Diyala from CF during a combined transfer of authority ceremony at FOB Lion, Jan. 4.
Maj. Gen. Robert Caslen, comm. gen., MND - North, and Col. Burt Thompson, cmdr., 1st Stryker BCT, 25th ID, were on hand to sign the contracts. "It is a historic day, not only for Diyala, but for all of Iraq; with this new agreement, members of the SoI will continue to assist in the security of Iraq," Caslen stated. "We have transitioned registered SoI members with new positions in trade work, and some of them will ultimately work for the IP or IA."  Also in attendance were MNC - Iraq Dep. Cmdr. for Ops, Maj. Gen. Michael Ferriter, and MND - North Deputy Cmdr. for Ops, Brig. Gen. James Nixon.
Thompson closed out the ceremony saying, "We appreciate all of the work that has been put into this project.  We also appreciate all of the IA and CF who have allowed this to happen and taken this project so seriously; we thank you."  Following the ceremony and subsequent press conference, attendees enjoyed a banquet of traditional Iraqi foods.  More than 9,000 Diyala SOI were transferred to Iraqi control during the ceremony.   In all, 76% of the nation's SoI members are now under Iraqi govt responsibility.

Maj. Gen. Robert Caslen and Col. Burt Thompson, sign contracts which complete the official transfer. (Army photos by Spc. Opal Vaughn)

Diyala Gov. al'Tamimi, Diyala Ops Center Cmdr. Staff Lt. Gen. Al-Safak, and Maj. Gen. Robert Caslen, shake hands after signing contracts to complete the official transfer of the SoI, during a press conference.

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Lifeblood of Iraqi farms returns

CAMP TAJI - For thousands of years, the people in the rural areas surrounding Baghdad relied on canals to distribute water from the Euphrates and Tigris Rivers to farms in the area. It's these farms which sustain the people and provide fresh food to the city.
Since the 1960s the irrigation infrastructure fell into disrepair due to lack of maintenance and illegal tapping, said Capt. Mark Gillman, an engr. assigned to the 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID.
Since August, work has gone into restoring and expanding the irrigation pump station, installing a dedicated electrical line and repairing the irrigation canals. The results are clearly visible from the air. What was once brown, dry land now is green and lush and crops are thriving.
"It is really incredible, how green the area is now," said Maj. Anthony Barbina, bde engr for the 2nd SBCT.  Barbina estimates nearly 13 square km of farm land is now restored.

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Iraqi orphans sing, act for Jihad NAC

FOB FALCON -

Iraqi children, orphans from several schools in the western Rashid district in southern Baghdad, recite a verse from the Quran, Jan. 3 to celebrate the Islamic holiday of Ashura during a series of skits put on by the school-age children for members of the Jihad Neighborhood Advisory Council, the IA and Soldiers of Co C, 1st Bn, 22nd Inf Regt, 1st BCT, 4th ID.  The children acted out a series of patriotic skits and folk songs, and read from the Quran for the local leaders to show their appreciation for donated clothes, toys and school supplies.
(Army photos by Sgt. 1st Class Brent Williams)

Iraqi 2nd Lt. Yasir gives Capt. Christopher Watkins, cmdr. of Co C, a volleyball.

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Bakiryah School reopens, breathes new life into neighborhood

BAGHDAD - The Bakiryah School celebrated its reopening Jan. 4 in the Mansour District.  "The school was overcrowded and through a local contractor we were able to build a new school building and house all of the students," said Lt. Col. Monty Willoughby, cmdr., 4th Sqdrn, 10th Cav Regt, operationally attached to the 2nd HBCT, 1st ID. "It will be a tremendous benefit for the students and it will increase their ability to learn."
The atmosphere at the event was very joyous for the children as they gathered in the renovated courtyard before the ceremony to sing and listen as their classmates read poetry to the distinguished guests of the event.  "The most important thing that you saw today was real emotion," said  Lt. Col. Christopher Beckert, the dep. comm. officer of the 2nd HBCT. "Today you saw real excitement on behalf of a community who takes the education of their children very seriously."
The troopers of the 4th Sqdn., 10th Cav. Regt., who partner with the 54th Bde to provide security for the Mansour district, have seen a marked improvement to the area during their time in northwest Baghdad.  "We've done a couple of different things here in accordance with the belladiyah," said Willoughby. "We've helped put in solar street lights and we've done some revitalization of the market area through micro grants. Then we looked at the school and decided to help out to provide a little bit of community pride and gain some community support."
Throughout the event the support of the community was evident not only in the large turnout but also in the festive mood created by the reopening.

School children celebrate the reopening of the Bakiryah School.
(Army photos by Sgt. Brian Tierce)

Lt. Col. Monty Willoughby greets a school official from the Bakiryah School before the reopening ceremony.

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ISF arrest 6 suspected terrorists in operations throughout Iraq

BALAD - Jan. 3, in An Numaniyah, Kut SWAT conducted an op pursuant to a local warrant that resulted in the arrest of 2 suspected criminals.  One of the individuals is believed to be a leader responsible for conducting IED and indirect fire attacks against CF in Wasit Province.
In a separate op, Hillah SWAT, serving a Ministry of Interior warrant, arrested a suspected criminal responsible for attacks against Coalition and Iraqi SF in the area.
In Najaf, elements from the IA arrested 2 suspected terrorists on a local warrant. One of the individuals is allegedly a criminal cell leader who is responsible for conducting IED attacks on CF convoys in the Manathera area.
During an op in Tameem, Ramadi SWAT, serving a local court warrant, arrested a suspected terrorist. The individual is believed to be a drug dealer, weapons smuggler and counterfeiter of U.S. currency.

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IA, MND-C Soldiers find large weapons cache in Amarah

COB ADDER - IA and the 2nd Bn, 7th Cav Regt, 4th BCT, 1st Cav Div located a weapons cache and detained 3 suspects near FOB Garry Owen, Jan. 3.
The weapons cache consisted of: 58 81 mm mortar rounds, 3 ammo cans of 7.62 mm rounds, an assortment of weapons, an ammo can of .50 caliber rounds, and an EFP kit.

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Blackanthem Military News

By US Forces Afghanistan Public Affairs

Afghan Commandos, Coalition forces kill one insurgent in Herat

KABUL, Afghanistan - Afghan Commandos and CF killed an insurgent and detained 5 others during an op in Sanowghan, Zer-e-Koh Valley, in Herat province Dec. 28.
The op was conducted in response to recent insurgent activity in Sanowghan.  The Zer-e-Koh Valley is a historic sanctuary for insurgent commanders and activities.  During the op, 2 men, 12 women and 18 children were safeguarded by the combined forces.  The insurgent killed, fired upon the Commandos as they approached.  The Commandos responded with precision small-arms fire.  There were no other shots fired.  Upon conclusion of the engagement, the combined forces conducted a key leader engagement with village elders to discuss the reasons for the op.

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Dear Interested Reader,
IA and CF conduct recon patrol in Hamza.  IA rings in the New Year with increased troops.  SoI learn carpentry and welding skills from Sustainers.  Iraqi SF raise Iraqi flag over JSS Istaqlal, while former FOB Callahan is turned over to the Iraqi Trade Ministry.  In Afghanistan, Afghan NA and CF disrupt road side bombers in Khost and Zabul.
Joanna
_____________________________

Jan. 5, 2009

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

Iraqi Army, MND-N leaders meet on New Year's Day

COB SPEICHER -

Staff Brig. Gen. Zenel, 4th IA Div chief of staff, and Col. Walter Piatt, 3rd IBCT, 25th ID, cmdr., met at a luncheon to celebrate the New Year and the new security agreement which took effect Jan. 1.
(Army photos by Staff Sgt. Tim Meyer)

Members of the 25th ID Band play jazz music while Staff Brig. Gen. Zenel serves himself lunch.

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IA, CF Soldiers conduct reconnaissance patrol in Hamza

CAMP ECHO -  Dec. 30, the patrol afforded the IA Soldiers and Co B, 2nd CAB, 8th Inf Regt, 2nd BCT, 4th ID the opportunity to become more familiar with the town, its people and the local leaders.
"It's important for us to know the area better and meet the people on missions like this. When the people see us out among them, we get to know each other better and build trust between us," said Ali, an Iraqi sgt.  "It is an important relationship we are building," he said. "They help us help them and let us do our job better because they know what is happening in their area. Also, the more the citizens see us doing our job, the more they trust us to keep them safe. That is our job: to protect the Iraqi people."  Throughout the day, the patrol walked through market streets and residential areas, stopping to greet people and ask questions about the area.  "These missions build the people's trust in us when we talk with them, help them and show them that we work for them and for their safety," said Damin, an Iraqi staff sgt.
"It's necessary to talk to all the people so they understand our presence and what our mission is," said 1st Lt. John Mullany, plt leader, Co. B, 2-8 Inf. Regt.  Crowds of children threaded their way into conversations with Iraqi and American Soldiers, vying for attention with greetings, offers of refreshments and even cartwheels.  "I like interacting with the people, even if you're not talking about mission related things, but about families and things like that; I enjoy it. I don't think there is any better way of building trust," said Mullany.  "They need to know that we're here to train the IA so they can take over and do their own missions and take care of their own country. So when we leave, they will know their (Army and Police) are strong," he said.

Children approach Soldiers from Co B and IA Soldiers.
(Army photos by Sgt. Rodney Foliente)

Soldiers from Co B and IA Soldiers walk down a busy market street.

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IA brings in New Year with new troops

COB ADDER - Approx. 2,100 IA Soldiers graduated their initial training at the Besmaya Range Complex, Dec. 31 increasing the might of the Iraqi SF.
As he visually reviewed the graduating troops of the 41st Bde, 10th IA Div, Gen Habeeb, cmdr. of the 10th IA Div stood and saluted the newest members.  Habeeb displayed pride for his unit with a gentle smile as the Soldiers stood in a mass formation prior to the graduation.  "I am very pleased at the way our partnership is working and how we are doing here," said Habeeb. "I think the 41st Bde has had some of the best training working with the American troops."
The Soliders of the 5th Bn, 82nd FAR, 4th BCT, 1st Cav Div helped train the Iraqi troops in weapon-system familiarization and using their combat gear. The Soldiers focused on preparing the Iraqis to build from the past and provide security for their country.
Lt. Gen. Frank Helmick, Multi-National Security Transition Command Iraq cmdr., attended the ceremony. "The IA of today is made up of Soldiers who have only one thing in mind, to provide the people of Iraq a professional security force," said Helmick. "We look forward to serving alongside you in 2009."

Lt. Gen. Frank Helmick presents one of the graduates with a gift during the IA graduation.
(Army photo by Pfc. Terence Ewings)

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Sons of Iraq learn carpentry, welding skills from Sustainers

JOINT BASE BALAD - After a hard day's work, most people want to relax. For some Iraqis working at Joint Base Balad, relaxation comes only after completing an 18-mile walk home.
For "Mohammed," a SoI member who works for the Iraqi-owned Miran Company, at a container repair facility here said the walk home does not bother him or his co-workers.  In fact, their job is probably the reason they each have their own home. "I'm very happy to work, my family is happy," he said. "I can help my family; my mom, my dad. Now we have salary and pay ... we have a house."
Sustainers from the 155th Inland Cargo Transportation Co. and the 259th CSSB, 3rd Sust Command (Expeditionary) trained approx. 35 SoI on welding, painting and carpentry skills since Oct. 2008. The training partnership enables the SoI to repair and inspect shipping containers at the Iraqi-owned container repair facility.
Capt. Jason Whitehorn, the support ops transportation officer in charge for the 259th CSSB said the training has been rewarding for both the Iraqis and Soldiers.  Not only does the training provides the Iraqis with valuable job skills; it also saves the Army money, he said.  Additionally, repairing containers here reduces the amount of convoys and Soldiers traveling Iraqi roads on their way to Kuwait to deliver damaged containers for repairs. Whitehorn added that until this training began, Kuwait was one of the few places where shipping containers could be repaired.
SSgt. Jesus Grajales and 3 other Soldiers from the 155th Inland Cargo Trans. Co., along with an Iraqi partner taught classes on welding for 2 weeks as well as a hands-on portion to every worker at the facility. Grajales said they are teaching the Iraqis how to weld, repair and inspect shipping containers so they might eventually be able to start a container repair company of their own.  "Only about 5% of Iraqi welders know how to use a plasma cutter (a tool to cut steel and other dense metal materials), but all the workers here have learned to use one," said Hashim, the manager and owner of the Miran Co. "That puts them ahead of others and helps them get opportunity to make money."
Whitehorn said the most challenging aspect during training was overcoming cultural differences. They not only taught Iraqis, but learned from them as well.  "One day the schedule would say we were teaching welding, but it would soon turn into an English lesson, or an Arabic lesson for our guys," he said. "Some words don't translate so you work around it, but it built the relationship between us even stronger."
Hashim said the training not only benefitted the Iraqi workers monetarily; it has also helped them get to know American Soldiers better.  "Some Iraqis don't get to be close with Soldiers, they just see convoys, and they have no chance to talk with them or learn about their families," he said. "But we get to meet and joke around with Soldiers and learn each others' language.  I want to thank the Soldiers for giving them a job, a chance at a better future and for building a good relationship with us."

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ISF raise Iraqi flag over JSS Istaqlal

BAGHDAD -

A leader from the Iraqi NP raises the Iraqi flag with Lt. Col. Richard Wilson, 1st Bn, 27th Inf Regt, 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th Inf Div, attached to 3rd BCT, 4th ID, cmdr., symbolizing the transition in security of Iraq, Jan. 1.
(Army photos by Spc. Brian Pierce)

A leader from the Iraqi 2nd Bde, shakes hands with Lt. Col. Richard Wilson, officially transitioning security.

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Former FOB Callahan turned over to Iraqi Trade Ministry

AL SHA' AB, Iraq - Days after the Green Zone was returned to the GoI, Iraqi sovereignty continues to move forward in Baghdad.
CF returned FOB Callahan in the Al Sha'ab neighborhood to Iraqi jurisdiction, Jan. 3 in the Sha'ab neighborhood of Baghdad's Adhamiyah district.  FOB Callahan was the former Sha'ab Market and a strategic spot in Adhamiyah, which was taken over in 2007 as part of the surge to monitor routes and more fully secure the area. With the new security agreement and increased security in the area, CF seized the opportunity to return the building back to the Iraqi Ministry of Trade.
The Ministry of Trade plans to renovate the building and return it to its original market place and will remove the concrete barriers surrounding it.  "There are 2 big effects by reopening this building," said Capt. Kevin Kahre, cmdr. of Co D, 1-68 AR, 3rd BCT, 4th ID. "The first impact will be that traffic will be alleviated considerably by the reopening of 2 major roads in the area, which will afford people the opportunity to move around more freely, as we take down barriers.  Larger vehicles will be able to transport anything from goods to fuel more easily as well.  Second, in the upcoming months, as the MOT fixes and reopens the building, it will once again be a source of income for the area."
Kahre went on to explain how rewarding it has been for him and Soldiers who have deployed multiple times to see things come "full circle" and how good it was to see Iraqis get that part of their city back.  There are 8 other markets like the one in Sha'ab and 2 remain under Coalition control.

Anys Faleyeh, the gen. mgr. of the Ministry of Trade, receives the key to the Sha'ab Market from Lt. Col. Michael Pappal, cmdr. of the 1st CAB, 68th Armor Regt, 3rd BCT, 4th ID.  The ceremony served to symbolize Iraq's furthered sovereignty in the Adhamiyah district of Baghdad.
(Army photos by Sgt. Whitney Houston)

Two Iraqi NP, Sgt. Cesar Campbell (left), and Pfc. Benedict Joel (right), both serving with the 1st CAB, drop an Iraqi flag from the roof of the Al Sha'ab market.

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ISF, MND-B Soldiers discover munitions, arrest four suspects

BAGHDAD - Jan. 3, in Baghdad's Rashid district, at approx. 11 a.m. in the Karb De Gla community, Iraqi NP partnered with Soldiers from Co A, 1st Bn, 505th PIR, 1st BCT detained 4 suspected criminals in possession of battery charges and other roadside bomb-making materials.
In another op in the area, Soldiers from Co D, 505th PIR, discovered 30 anti-tank mines, an AK-47 assault rifle and 3 AK-47 mags during a patrol at approximately 2 p.m.    

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Blackanthem Military News

By US Forces Afghanistan Public Affairs

ANA, and Coalition forces disrupt road side bombers in Khost and Zabul

KABUL, Afghanistan - Afghan and CF killed 5 armed militants and detained 10 suspected militants, including the targeted Haqqani militant and Taliban sub-cmdr., during multiple ops to disrupt terrorist ops in Khost and Zabul provinces, Jan 1.
As the combined force approached the militant's compound, multiple armed militants exited the buildings and attempted to maneuver on the force.  Members of the combined force moved to interdict the militants and were engaged by enemy small-arms fire and hand grenades.  The combined force returned fire, engaging the armed militants with small-arms and close-air precision munitions.  A search of the militants revealed several hand grenades, multiple AK-47s, pistols and other military equipment.
Meanwhile, the remainder of the combined force continued the search of the targeted building, and found 3 bags of roadside bomb-making material, including blasting caps, remote detonators and wires.
The op in Qalat District, approx. 120 km northeast of Kandahar, resulted in the capture of a Taliban sub-cmdr. known to plan and execute roadside bombs and direct attacks against CF along Highway One.  He's also believed to facilitate the movement of weapons into the Zabul province for illegal activities.
CF searched the targeted compound without incident and detained 2 additional suspected militants while protecting 9 women and 20 children.

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Dear Interested Reader,
History is made as ISF take control of JSS Ghazaliyal III.  Red Cross helps a soldier see the birth of his child.  New river focused force hits waterways and streets for joint op in Basrah.  IA soldiers and 890th Engr. Bn develop strong partnership.  The 17th IA partnered with the Iron Bde improves maintenance and supply system.  Implementation of security agreement is the topic at Kirkuk's Criminal Justice Council.  Ongoing repairs to Kirkush NCO Military Academy barracks puts Iraqi new learned skills to use.  25,000 small arms weapons rendered inoperable, and local artists turn scrap parts into sculptures.  In Afghanistan, security guards with the help of the NP thwarted an attack on coalition Shindand Airfield.
Joanna
______________________________

Jan. 4, 2009

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

History made as ISF take control of JSS Ghazaliyah III

An Iraqi Soldier and Spc. Anthony Perez of Troop B, raise the Iraqi Flag.
(Army photo by 2nd Lt. Cait Smith)

BAGHDAD - When JSSs across Baghdad were transitioning to Iraqi control, Soldiers from the 5th Sqdrn, 4th Cav Regt, 2nd HBCT, 1st ID did their part by transferring JSS Ghazaliyah III, in Baghdad's Ghazaliyah district, to Iraqi control Jan. 1.
"We will now focus our efforts towards assisting our Iraqi counterparts in order to better prepare the IA to take full control of Ghazaliyah," said 1st Lt. Patrick Howlett.
During the ceremony, Lt. Col. John Richardson IV, the cmdr. of the 5th Sqdn. 4th Cav. Regt., alongside his IA counterpart,
Lt. Col. Abdullah, signed formal documents for the transition of authority from CF to the IA.  Once the documents were signed, the group was called to attention and the Soldiers witnessed the raising of the Iraqi Flag by an Iraqi Soldier, with the assistance of Spc. Anthony Perez, Troop B, 5th Sqdn., 4th Cav. Regt.

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Red Cross Helps Soldier See Birth of Child       

By Spc. Kiyoshi Freeman

Spc. Mario Aguirre witnesses the birth of his daughter, Gabriela, via Web camera, Dec. 15, 2008. (Photo by Spc. Kiyoshi Freeman)

JOINT BASE BALAD — An Arizona National Guardsman recently witnessed the birth of his daughter from halfway around the world here at the Red Cross’ Legacy Room.  Opened back in July, the Legacy Room allowed Spc. Mario Aguirre, an artilleryman with the 123rd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment, to communicate with his wife, who was delivering their second child in Scottsdale, Ariz.
After 16 hours of labor, Aguirre’s wife, Elizabeth, gave birth to Gabriela at Scottsdale-Shea Hospital – and Aguirre was there every step of the way.  The Red Cross uses instant messenger services and a webcam to allow Soldiers to experience special, personal events in privacy.  “It’s invaluable,” said Michael Patton, the team leader for the Red Cross office here. “If a father or a servicemember gets to witness a special event in their lives that they would normally miss by being deployed – nothing could replace it.”
“It almost feels like you’re there,” Aguirre said. “At least it doesn’t feel like you’re so far away, when you’re actually seeing each other and talking to each other and everything.”
A former Soldier himself, Patton said that he missed the birth of his own child during a deployment, and only saw photographs 3 weeks afterward, when the mail finally got through.  “It’s not as good as being there, but it’s the next best thing,” Patton said. “And now [with modern technology] they can sit there and watch it as it happens.”

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New river-focused police force hits waterways, streets for first mission

BASRAH - Three days after graduating a multi-week training course, the first SWAT Technical Response Team (TRT) was thrust into action December with CF,  executing a joint op in Basrah.
The river-focused force filled vital over-watch positions, and maintained active security and communications with IP and Army units as well as with Coalition units. "This demonstrates the capability of this force, and how their training prepared them for real-world missions," said a Coalition advisor to the TRT.
The TRT is a new capability for Iraq allowing the police to have a specially trained cadre skilled in the art of maritime and land-based, urban-strike ops.  The TRT is targeting smuggling networks and will use watercraft to gain access to areas difficult to reach, said a CF advisor to the TRT.
The region is a patchwork of navigable waterways ranging from rivers and tributaries to man-made canals and vast marshlands. The abundance of waterways coupled with the proximity to the Persian Gulf and Iranian border has IP officers concerned about the smuggling to Iraq's enemies.  "Outlaws use the river to hide out and transport weapons from across the border," said the Iraqi Lt in charge of the Basrah TRT.
"Within a month, I've seen leaders emerging within the team, taking responsibility and pushing each other to do better and get stronger ... It's very encouraging," said the Coalition advisor mentoring the TRT.
"We completed the toughest training and became one of the best and most brave within the IP," said the Iraqi officer in charge of the TRT during his address to the class during graduation.

Members from the Basrah SWAT TRT conduct a river patrol training operation in Basrah.  The river-focused police force is now responsible for many kms of waterways in the region.
(Photo by AF Capt. Greg Hignite)

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Soldiers of 6th IA Div., 890th Eng. Bn., develop strong partnership

CAMP LIBERTY - The partnership between the IA Soldiers of the 6th IA Div and the Soldiers from the 890th Engr Bn, 926th Engr Bde, has been a continuing development over the course of the bn's deployment.  The 2 forces came together for yet another milestone Dec. 27, by working together on route clearance missions.
As the IA becomes more familiar with its route-clearance vehicle, the Badger, it becomes integrated within the 890th Engr. Bn.'s route-clearance formations.
"This is my second time to ride in the Badger," said Cpl. Clifton Fortune, who rode with the 6th IA in the Badger and served as the radio transmitter operator for the formation. "They are very proud to do what they do. They are very professional when on route clearance and you can tell that they are getting more comfortable with the route-clearance missions."  Fortune said that although the language barrier can be difficult, the IA and MND-B Soldiers still manage to communicate and work as a team.
The priority is to prepare the IA soldiers for conducting independent ops.
"It's beneficial to see the IA working with us to see how we do things, so, ultimately, they can take command of their own route clearance and their own country," added Sgt. John Carter who serves as a Buffalo arm operator with his crew.

Soldiers from the 6th IA Div check out a possible IED, Dec. 27.
(Army photo by 2nd Lt. Susie Hubbard)

Lt Col. Joe Hargett (left) along with Command Sgt. Maj. Larry Mergenschroer admire the new 168th Engr Bde patch they presented to IA Command Sgt. Maj. Ali, Dec. 27.  Soldiers of the 890th Engr Bn, from Gulfport, Miss. are now wearing the new patch.
(Army photo by Sgt. Carmen Guerrero)

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17th Iraqi MTR partners with Iron Brigade to improve maintenance, supply system

BAGHDAD - The 17th IA Div continues on its path to a self-sufficient logistics and maintenance program with a little help from a team of Soldiers from the 47th Forward Support Bn, 2nd BCT, 1st Armored Div.
Sgt. 1st Class Timothy Hagen, Co B, 47th FSB maintenance vehicle supervisor, taught the 17th IA Div Motorized
Transportation Regt, a class on humvee maintenance Dec. 31, at Patrol Base Deason in Mahmudiyah Qada. "I am trying to teach the Iraqi soldiers a preventive maintenance checks and services program," said Hagen. "I want to teach them the proper procedure to troubleshoot and figure out the problem.  I also want them to be able to order the part and fix it themselves."
The logistics and maintenance program has long been a fragile area for the IA.  Ordering parts is still a difficult for the IA, which can take weeks to get parts through their system.  "When we first arrived here, the IA were reluctant to submit an IA request form," said Warrant Officer Julian Prince.  "The local economy was their first choice for parts.  We have gotten them to put trust in the supply system."
"The training from Sgt. 1st Class Hagen is a benefit for my Soldiers. It helps my Soldiers understand maintenance," said Ahmed. "The humvee is new for us and the system is different, so there is a need for this training."
"There has been a definite improvement in maintenance and training," said Chief Warrant Officer 2 Lashanda Hill, who serves with the logistics training advisory team embedded with the 17th IA MTR.  Hill is partnered with the unit and has advised the unit on the importance of using and trusting the Iraqi supply system.  Hill has established a positive working relationship with IA Capt. Sadoon, the ops officer for the 17th IA MTR, which helps the communication process as the combined forces work together.
"Chief Hill is very good," said Sadoon. "Any problem we have, she gives us a solution. She helps and supports with training."

Sgt. 1st Class Timothy Hagen explains how to inspect the transmission of a humvee.
(Army photos by Lt. Col. Wayne Marotto)

IA 1st. Lt. Ahmed (left), a maintenance plt leader for the 17th, and IA jundi Nemir, take apart a humvee transmission.

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Security agreement hot topic at Criminal Justice Council

FOB WARRIOR, KIRKUK - The 4th Kirkuk Criminal Justice Council conference was held at the IP Academy, Dec. 31 to discuss the implementation of the security agreement and its impact on the Kirkuk Province.
The event was significant because it took place on the eve of the effective date for the security agreement, and the IA cmdrs. from the Kirkuk Province were also in attendance, said Capt. Jennifer Venghaus, the command judge advocate for 18th Engr Bde and rule of law specialist for Kirkuk Province.  The topics discussed in the conference were implementation of the security agreement, Iraqi jurisdiction on CF troops, arrests and search warrants, and procedures for the IP to detain IA Soldiers.
"It's the beginning of a new year, but it's also the dawning of a new day for Iraq," said Lt. Col. David Snodgrass, the dep. comm. officer for 3rd BCT, 25th ID, and a guest speaker at the conference. "The people of Iraq have come through a lot of adversity throughout the past 5 years."
Snodgrass briefed the attendees on the how U.S. Soldiers in Kirkuk will comply with the new security agreement. "The U.S. will recognize the sovereignty of Iraq," he said, adding that the U.S. remains committed to supporting the Iraqi SF and the GoI, as they improve their capabilities.

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

Ongoing repairs to Kirkush NCO Military Academy barracks provide unique training       

KIRKUSH — Ongoing repairs to 3 barracks at the new NCO Military Academy here are providing unique training opportunities for a local engr. and craftsmen.  During structural testing by Coalition agencies, only 1 of the 4 barracks was deemed safe for occupancy.
Navy Lt. Robert Curry, Civil Engr Corps and resource manager for MNSTC-I’s Coalition Army Advisory Training Team, said, “Once complete, this project will greatly enhance the development of the NCO Corps in the IA.”  Identifying the need for workers skilled in welding and concrete, the contractor brought in an Iraqi engr, a U.S. expatriate construction mgr., and a third-country national journeyman welder and carpenter to lead and train the team of workers.  
Through a training program modeled after a U.S. welder certification program, 9 Iraqis became certified welder journeymen.  In a combination of classroom training, field experience and evaluation, the Iraqi welders and steel workers learned and used new technology including plasma torches and truss steel jigs during the assembly of the steel trusses. Carpenters learned the time and cost-savings of reusable wooden forms for foundation footers and 9-meter tall structurally reinforced walls.
The 9-meter tall reusable wall form allows an entire wall to be poured at once because of multiple concrete pouring access points. “The structural repairs are currently about 78% complete,” said AF 1st Lt. Ryan Oot, engr. for the CAATT Logistics Mgt. Advisory Team. “Once complete, these facilities will support professional military education, a crucial function in the development of the IA.”
AF Capt. Matt Olijnek, program mgr. for Iraqi Ministry of Defense projects for MNSTC-I’s J7 (engr) directorate, said, “I’m very pleased with the pace of construction at this point in the project.  Implementing these time-saving techniques has allowed the contractor to accomplish 4 or more percent each week.  It is also good to see the vast number of Iraqis working on site and applying new skills”

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

IMCO renders 25,000th small arms weapon inoperable (MNSTC-I)     

BAGHDAD – Members of the Iraqi Mine/UXO Clearance Org. will ring in the New Year with a significant accomplishment under their belt -- 25,000 small arms weapons rendered inoperable and off Iraqi streets.
Since the inception of the destruction program, 25,000 small arms, ranging from pistols and AK-47’s to RPG’s and 120 mm mortars, have been destroyed.  The first 10,000 weapons were destroyed in just over 5 weeks, with the next 15,000 rendered inoperable in just over 7 weeks.
The vast majority of the weapons are confiscated by Iraqi and CF.  The weapons then make their way to the logistical base at Taji and are then shipped to the IMCO compound located inside the Int'l Zone for destruction.
The journey for of these destroyed weapons doesn’t end in a scrap heap.  Local artists use the scrap parts to create unique sculptures that decorate the IMCO facility.  What was once a dangerous weapon now serves as a beacon of hope for a more secure Iraq.

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Pump You Up

SSgt. Nathan Morningstar, 407th Expeditionary Logistic Readiness Sqdrn air terminal ops, rests between dumbbell military press sets, Dec. 31, 2008.  Morningstar was recently named "Strongest Man in the AOR," by squatting 520 pounds and bench pressing 380 pounds.
(Photo by Airman 1st Class Christopher Griffin) (Joanna:  Notice the big shoes!)

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U.S. Forces Afghanistan

Afghan forces stop attack on Coalition airfield

KABUL, Afghanistan – Afghan Security Guards (ASG) thwarted a daytime insurgent attack on Shindand airfield, Dec 29.
The airfield is located in Herat province in the western area of Afghan. It is suspected that the insurgents were preparing to ambush incoming aircraft.
The insurgents attacked the guards with small arms weapons.  ASG successfully repelled the attack with the help of Afghan National Police (ANP).  Four insurgents were detained for questioning by ANP. 
“Afghan forces continue to lead successful ops in efforts to improve the security of the Afghan people,” said Col. Jerry O’Hara, a U.S. Forces spokesperson. “As we move into the New Year, Afghan forces working with CF will keep pressuring the insurgents until the insurgency is defeated.”

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Dear Interested Reader,
It's a proud day for Iraq, as they take over control in the Green Zone, and celebrate the beginnings of a sovereign nation.  Success after success marks the New Year, as the Airport in Basra transitions to civil authority, and many JSSs assume Iraqi control.  IP tactical training still continues, as well as weapons caches seized.  In Afghanistan, the big story is of the U.S. readying for a south Afghan surge against the Taliban.
Joanna
____________________________

Jan. 3, 2008

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

Iraq takes control of Green Zone

Iraqi SF at the handover ceremony, Baghdad, Jan. 01, 2009

Iraq has taken control of security in Baghdad's fortified Green Zone after a UN mandate for troops expired.  The end of the UN mandate - put into place soon after the invasion in March 2003 - means Iraq will now take greater control of its own security.
Iraqi PM Nouri Maliki welcomed the move as Iraq's "day of sovereignty" at the handover ceremony.
"I'd like to congratulate you and the Iraqi people on this day for which we have waited for more than 17 years," Mr Maliki said at the handover ceremony at the Presidential Palace, the former home of ousted leader Saddam Hussein.  "We have the right to consider this day as the day of sovereignty and it is the beginning that Iraq will regain every particle of its soil as well as all of its will and sovereignty."
Iraqi forces will take over responsibility for the security of the zone, the fortified area which houses the GoI, CF HQ, and most embassies.

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Airport transitions to civil authority in southern Iraqi province

BASRA - Iraqi authorities took control of the Basrah Int'l Airport from Coalition supervision today in a ceremony in the southern city of Basra.  This transfer of authority comes after 4 years of operation, since it closed after the start of the war in 2003.
"This is a very positive time for Iraqis," said Basrah Gov. El Wa'ili, through an interpreter.  "I thank the coalition for all of the effort they have put into this project."
CF will continue to assist BIA with its transition into an Iraqi operated int'l airport until they leave this summer. They will focus on communications support runway ops, fire and rescue services, business planning and infrastructure delivery.
Currently, there are 12 airlines that fly in and out of Basrah, but airport officials said they are hoping to expand.  Most flights to and from the airport are within Iraq; however, external flights are becoming more common from locations like the United Arab Emirates.

British Maj. Gen. Andy Salmon, Basrah Int'l Airport Dir. Abdul Ameer, Basrah Gov El Wa'ili and Dir. Gen. Iraqi Civilian Aviation Admin. Al Shebany meet at the transfer of authority ceremony at the Basrah Int'l Airport, Jan. 1.

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Iraqi flag flies over Joint Security Stations in northwest Baghdad

The Iraqi flag flies above JSS Washash in Baghdad's Mansour district, Jan. 1. The IA assumed control of JSSs throughout Baghdad in accordance with the recently signed security agreement between the GoI and CF.

IA Soldiers pose by the newly placed sign in front of JSS Khadra in Baghdad's Mansour district, Jan. 1.

Iraqi Soldiers and a Soldier from the 4th Sqdrn, 10th Cav Regt, attached to the 2nd HBCT, 1st ID, raise the Iraqi flag above JSS Adl in Baghdad's Mansour district, Jan. 1.

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Iraqi national flag flies above JSS Salamiyat

BAGHDAD -

The IA, Iraqi NP and Soldiers from Co C, 1st Bn, 27th Inf Regt, attached to 1st Bn, 21st Inf Regt 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID, watch the Iraqi national flag as it is raised above JSS Salamiyat, west of Baghdad, Jan. 1. The raising of the flag symbolizes the implementation of the new Security Agreement which took effect Jan. 1. Under the Security Agreement, all combat ops are now combined ops between ISF and CF.
(Army photo by 1st Lt. Christopher Smith)

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ISF takes control of JSS Sheik Marouf

BAGHDAD -

IA soldiers and IP from the Ju'aifer local police station, hold up the Iraqi National flag before raising it over JSS Sheik Marouf in Baghdad's Karkh district, Jan. 1. The flag was raised in a morning ceremony to mark the base now falling under Iraqi control as Iraq begins the transition to full independence.

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Iraqi Police Tactical Training Continues       

By Staff Sgt. JB Jaso III

Spc. Jeremy Mingle shows an IP officer how to safely and properly enter a building during a training session.

ISTAQLAL — As CF here continue to transition operational responsibility to the Iraqi SF, Soldiers continue to ensure the IP in the Istaqal Qada are ready to protect the residents of this northeast Baghdad region. To that end, 4th ID conducted tactical training with their IP counterparts, Dec. 29.
“We taught them entering and clearing rooms and buildings, sensitive site exploitation and searching individuals,” said Spc. Joshua Lewis, who was one of the instructors for training. “We taught them the tips and tricks you need to know.  It was important to teach them to ensure that they stay alive and safe.” Lewis continued.
When planning the course, the NCOs responsible for the training had to overcome the language barrier when trying to implement the finer details of this training.  “It was difficult trying to explain the way to do the maneuvers in simple words,” said Sgt. Tony Macias, an infantry squad leader, who used an interpreter to train the IP.  “It went good, though.  We are trying to teach them the basics.”
An Iraqi Police officer agreed that the training went well. “It was good training,” said the IP officer. “I look forward to more training by the CF.”  As the Iraqi SF take on more responsibility for the security of their nation, the Soldiers remain dedicated to ensuring that their counterparts are prepared.
“The security environment in Istaqlal Qada and northern Adhamiyah fosters coordination between members of the Al Zahour IP Security District, the 6th ERUB and members of Iraqi NP,” said Lt. Col. Richard “Flip” Wilson.  “We, as a security force, on any given day honorably serve our respective nations with great discipline and teamwork.”

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Joint Security Station Sab Al Bour Now Under GoI Control       

By Sgt. 1st Class Brian Addis

JSS SAB AL BOUR — MND – Baghdad Soldiers bore witness to an historic event here as the national symbol of Iraq was raised over the Governance Center, Dec. 30.  The raising of the flag formally symbolizes the transition of control from CF back to the Iraqi govt in the area.
Before officially raising the flag, several items were buried in a time capsule underneath the flag pole.  Among the items buried were several compact discs, which contained pictures of all the Nahia and Iraqi SF leaders.  Memos explaining what happened in Sab al Bour, and the accomplishments of the new Iraqi govt were also included.  Buried along with the CDs were (15) 9mm rounds: one for each block in Sab al Bour.  “The 9mm rounds being buried represent the end of violence in Sab al Bour,” said Jaffar. “It [the 9mm rounds] also represents the fact that we are ready to leave the bad times buried in the past.”
The honor of raising the flag was given to Thamir, a man who spent 13 years in prison under Saddam Hussein’s regime for refusing to join the Baath party.  Thamir raised the flag slowly, as his eyes welled up with tears of joy. “This is one of the proudest days of my life,” Thamir said. “This is truly a great occasion as it symbolizes a new beginning and the end to many years of depression.”

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IA, MND-B Soldiers find weapons caches west of Baghdad

BAGHDAD -  Dec. 30, at approx. 10:46 a.m., IA Soldiers along with Soldiers with Co C, 1st Bn, 21st Inf Regt, 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID, seized a large cache including 177 73 mm heat rockets, 19 73 mm projectiles, 119 rocket mortars, a 106 mm illumination mortar, an 82 mm mortar, 3 40 mm projectile grenades, 20 120 mm mortar primers, 6 mortar fuses, 40 rocket point detonating fuses, 200 14.5 mm cartridges, a partially constructed IED, and a variety of bomb-making materials.
Later in the day, at approx. 1:20 p.m., soldiers from the same units seized 22 120 mm mortars and a 155 mm mortar north of Abu Ghuraib in west Baghdad.

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Thumb's Up

Staff Sgt. David Ni hands out candy to children during a patrol in the Rashidiyah Nahia, Dec. 28, 2008.  Ni is an inf squad leader with Co B, 52nd Inf Regt, attached to the 1st Bn, 27th Inf Regt "Wolfhounds," 2nd Stryker BCT "Warrior," 25th ID, currently attached to 3rd BCT, 4th ID,
(Photo by Brad Willeford)

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US readying south Afghan surge against Taliban

By JASON STRAZIUSO and RAHIM FAIEZ, AP Writers

U.S. soldiers wait for flight at the airfield in Kandahar province south of Kabul, Afghanistan on Dec. 29.

KANDAHAR, Afghanistan – Afghanistan's southern rim, the Taliban's spiritual birthplace and the country's most violent region, has for the last 2 years been the domain of British, Canadian and Dutch soldiers. That's about to change. In what amounts to an Afghan version of the surge in Iraq, the U.S. is preparing to pour at least 20,000 extra troops into the south, augmenting 12,500 NATO soldiers who have proved too few to cope with a Taliban insurgency that is fiercer than NATO leaders expected.
New construction at Kandahar Air Field foreshadows the upcoming infusion of American power.  Runways and housing are being built, along with 2 new U.S. outposts in Taliban-held regions of Kandahar province.
For the first time since NATO took over the country in 2006, an experienced U.S. general, Brig. Gen. John Nicholson, is assigned to the south.  He says U.S. Gen. David McKiernan, NATO's cmdr. in Afghanistan, has made the objectives clear in calling the situation in the south a stalemate and asking for more troops, on top of the 32,000 Americans already in Afghanistan.
Military officials say they have enough troops to win battles but not to hold territory, and they hope the influx of troops, plus the continued growth of the Afghan army, will change that.  U.S. officials hope to add at least 3 new brigades of ground forces in the southern region, along with assets from an aviation brigade, surveillance and intel forces, engrs, MP, and SF.  In addition, a separate brigade of new troops is deploying to 2 provinces surrounding Kabul.
NATO forces are well positioned in 3 key areas of northern Helmand, said British Lt. Gen. J.B. Dutton, dep. cmdr. of the NATO's Afghan mission.  "What we have not yet achieved is to join those areas up, so there is a security presence that allows locals to drive safely between those areas. That's the sort of thing we are going to want to improve," he said.
Since 2006, the U.S. has concentrated its forces in eastern Afghanistan, along the border with Pakistan, while the south is policed by 8,500 British troops, 2,500 Canadians and 2,500 Dutch.  Their overall cmdr. is Dutch Maj. Gen. Mart de Kruif — who would also have command of any incoming U.S. forces in the south next year.  By the fall of 2010 the top officer in the south will be American.
The infusion of U.S. power risks Americanizing a war that until now has been a shared mission of 41 coalition countries. But Dutton, the British general, suggested there was no choice. "It has to do with national capacity and a number of political considerations in those countries," he said.  In Canada and many European countries, govts face low public support for keeping troops in Afghanistan combat zones.  Dutton said the British contribution is "significant," as well as that of Canada, which he noted has lost more troops per capita in Afghanistan than any other nation.
Nicholson, the U.S. general, said the Canadians have fought "heroically," but simply don't have enough forces to secure all of Kandahar. The Canadian Embassy declined to comment.  "If we get the troops, they're going to move into areas that haven't been secured, and when we do that, the enemy is there, and we're going to fight," said Nicholson, who spent 16 months commanding a brigade of 10th Mtn Div troops in eastern Afghanistan in 2006 and 2007.  That fighting should eventually clear the way for security and governance to take hold, he said.
"If you want to summarize that as it's going to get worse before it gets better, that's exactly what we're talking about," he said.

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Dear Interested Reader,
Soldiers from the 40th ESB welcome New Year with reenlistment service at Camp Victory, while soldiers at Cap Victory ring in the New Year at the "Across the Nation" New Year's celebration.  Iraqi NP ready to take lead in Abu T'shir.  Training provides convoy security experts to the Iraqi SOF ranks, while Iraqi Commandos larn border security.  Numerous suspected criminals arrested.  In Afghanistan, CF target terrorist Haqqani network in Paktiya.
Joanna
_____________________________

Jan. 2, 2009

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

Soldiers welcome New Year with renewed commitment to serve

By Spc. Christopher M. Gaylord

BAGHDAD - Many people ring in the New Year watching the crystal ball drop in Times Square and counting down with great anticipation to a brand new beginning.
For more than 130 Soldiers of the 40th Expeditionary Signal Bn from Fort Huachuca, Ariz., Jan. 1 was a new beginning all of its own, as they renewed their commitment to serve in the U.S. Army, at Al Faw Palace, Camp Victory.  "These Soldiers have done a phenomenal job over the past year," said Lt. Col. Linda Jantzen, bn cmdr, 40th ESB. "This was a real tribute to the entire bn; the entire team. We picked New Year's in order to say thank you for what they [the 40th ESB Soldiers] are doing."
For the past year, the 40th ESB has served as the primary theater signal bn in Iraq - as well as in Kuwait and Afghanistan - installing, operating and maintaining a strategic communication network.  "The warfighters live on communications and have no tolerance for outages," Jantzen said. "The importance of what these Soldiers are doing is installing a network and making it reliable for the warfighter. They're all proud of what they're doing."
The night was quite special for each and every Soldier who reenlisted, but for one Soldier who feels an obligation to serve, it was the event of a lifetime.  Sgt. Charles Wantland, cable systems installer and maintainer, 40th ESB, originally enlisted for 4 years in the Army in 1990 as an infantryman, but received a hardship discharge to take care of his father 1 year into his term. It seemed as though his military service had come to an end.  In 2005, Wantland was able to rejoin the Army with the new
communications skills he had developed for the past 13 years outside the military. He felt his re-enlistment was necessary.  "I just felt like I owed those 3 years back to the Army," Wantland said. "I felt obligated to pay them back.  It's a large step for the Signal Corps.  We're going to have knowledge and experience present, and Soldiers to pass on their experience to new Soldiers, so we'll have a strong Corps."
"This was a real thrill for me," Jantzen said. "If I go to war again, I want these Soldiers with me."

Soldiers from the 40th Expeditionary Signal Bn salute for the playing of the National Anthem in a formation creating a "40."
(Army photo by Spc. Christopher M. Gaylord)

Soldiers from the 40th raise their right hands, renewing their oath to the U.S. Army.

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Camp Liberty Soldiers Ring in the New Year       

By Spc. Benjamin Crane

Capt. William Obringer, an attorney with the Staff Judge Advocate section, dances with a light stick for the crowd at the “Across the Nation” New Year’s celebration, Camp Liberty, Dec. 31, 2008.

CAMP LIBERTY — U.S. Soldiers gathered together inside the Stadium here to celebrate the arrival of the new year, Dec. 31.
Being away from home doesn’t mean that Soldiers need to also be away from holiday celebration, and with the help of the Quarterback Club and the 4th ID Band, they didn’t miss a beat.  The “Across the Nation” New Year’s celebration helped many Soldiers feel like they were back at home by providing a Vegas-like casino setting, a Texas house party setting and the vibe of a New York 80’s dance party.
“It’s a New Year’s Eve party that we put together,” said Maj. Michael McGregor, who serves as dep. dir. of the division human resources section, 4th ID. “We have New York represented; we have Texas, which is kind of our home party; and then we have Las Vegas, which represents the western part of the United States.  Dance-offs, game tables and loud cheering were signs of Soldiers taking a break to enjoy a night to kick up their heels and have a good time.  “We just want to boost the morale. This is our second New Year’s here, and so we wanted to boost the morale of everybody in HQ, and have them come to have a good time,” said McGregor.
Morale boosting was the name of the game on this night and the Soldiers who attended enjoyed every bit of it.  “I’m here to have a good time with the staff,” said SSgt. Keslet Cineas, who serves on the comm. gen’s. personal security detail, Div Special Troops Bn, 4th ID. “It’s just to have great time with everybody.”
“This evening clearly brought a lot of great morale,” said Col. Peter Utely, chief of staff, 4th ID . “I tell you what, there were some awesome dancers out there tonight,” he said with a smile. “Thanks to all of you for what you do every day because every one of you makes a difference.”
After the countdown, the party poppers and the thrown confetti, the Soldiers streamed out, heading back to their rooms with smiles on their faces, and maybe a glimmer of hope and comfort that next year they will be with their families, remembering where they were on this brand new day of another brand new year.

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NP ready to take lead in Abu T'shir; CF provide overwatch, inspect vacant properties

BAGHDAD -  Dec. 30 in the Rashid district of southern Baghdad, Soldiers from Troop C, 7th Sqdrn, 10th Cav Regt, 1st BCT, 4th ID, inspected vacant properties and provided overwatch for Iraqi NP during combined cordon and search ops to enforce the GoI's Weapons-Free Policy, clearing an entire neighborhood, or muhallah, in the Abu T'shir community.
"We're conducting a muhallah clearance in Abu T'shir in response to an IED attack a couple of days ago," said Capt. Sean Tennimon, cmdr. of Troop C. "We're looking for weapons, explosives-making materials, and the NP are collecting AK-47 rifles, which are not authorized in Baghdad without a permit."
"The majority of the NP are Sunni," explained Tennimon, who went on to say the SF have won the support of the area's predominantly Shia populace. "The people are happy with them. I think they are ready to take over security for Abu T'shir.  "We cannot operate solely without the support of the citizens,"  said Iraqi Lt. Col. Abud, deputy cmdr. of the 1st Bn Aburisha.
In the past few months, the Aburisha led the ISF during similar clearance ops, said Sgt. Jeremy Brown, cav scout assigned to C Troop.  "Having the lead shows the citizens that the ISF are trying to better the community," Brown stated. "It's really good to see the ISF and the local citizens working out the issues on the ground."  When the Aburisha arrived in the Rashid district from Ramadi, Brown said Comanche Soldiers gave the NP an initial push to get the Iraqis started, and have since out-performed the previous NP unit by far.

Sgt. James Bowhay, a cav scout assigned to Troop C, touches base with Iraqi NP before combined cordon and search ops.
(Army photo by Sgt. David Hodge)

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ISOF boosts convoy security, support capabilities

BAGHDAD - Iraqi SOF expanded their capabilities by adding convoy security experts to their ranks following a course focused on keeping Soldiers and convoys safe.
"This training allowed these Soldiers to expand ISOF capabilities to become an expeditionary support force," said an ISOF BN command sgt maj. "Not only are they capable of providing logistical support, but they are now trained to provide security for convoys traveling all over Iraq.
Due to the dangerous and unique nature of the job, Soldiers had to meet specific criteria to attend the course. Criteria included an extensive knowledge of combat techniques, disciplined military bearing, previous driving experience, and commando qualification.  The Soldiers' disciplined foundation contributed to their ability to become proficient in weapons-handling procedures for close fire, quick reaction to ambushes and IEDs.  Each Soldier also had to learn the responsibilities of each person in the Humvee so they could quickly fill any position in case of emergency.
The Iraqi CSM said even after the Soldiers are "flying solo," it's important they continue periodic refresher training while performing convoy security duty. This will help keep skills sharp and responses second nature when faced with unpredictable scenarios.
"The roads our guys must travel are some of the most dangerous in Iraq," said a CF advisor. "They encounter IEDs, small-arms-fire attacks and suicide bombers, but they always return without any casualties."  Bringing everyone home safely is the true demonstration of each student's firm understanding of the course material, and graduates feel prepared to tackle their new mission.

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Air Force Surgeons Rotate Through Iraq 

(By Sue Campbell, Special to American Forces Press Service)  

 

From left, ophthalmologists AF Col. (Dr.) Randy Beatty, AF Maj. (Dr.) Lisa Mihora and AF Col. (Dr.) David Holck repair an orbital fracture at the AF Theater Hospital on Joint Base Balad, June 20, 2008.

LACKLAND AF BASE — Optimally managing the unique head and neck injury patterns seen in Iraq and Afghanistan has led to a successful initiative at Wilford Hall Medical Center here.  Hospital officials have developed a program – the first for a military medical facility -- to send surgical fellows to a war zone for a surgical rotation.
In the past, medical and surgical residents and fellows were not deployed to combat zones for hands-on training. "The Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education and individual residency review committees have very strict rules regarding a surgical resident and fellow's work hours, time away from work, supervision and fatigue management," said AF Col. (Dr.) David Holck, director of the Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Fellowship, and chairman of the ophthalmology department at Wilford Hall. "Yet, we realized that some of the best experience a military surgeon can receive is in a combat zone," Holck continued. "They can gain concentrated exposure to head and neck trauma and optimize their skills in the management of unique war-related injury patterns that are not routinely seen in civilian trauma centers. These include blast injuries from IEDs, burns, multi-system trauma and combinations of these injuries."
Holck initiated this project by taking his fellow, Air Force Maj. (Dr.) Lisa Mihora, to the Air Force theater hospital at Joint Base Balad, Iraq, for a surgical rotation this summer.  Mihora spent 6 weeks at Joint Base Balad, performing more than 130 procedures under the direct supervision of Holck and another oculofacial plastic surgeon, Air Force Col. (Dr.) Randal Beatty.  "Deploying to Iraq gave me unique exposure to oculoplastics patients," Mihora said. "The extent of the injuries and surgeries that I cared for were unique to a war zone."  Mihora said one of the most important parts of the experience was the chance to work with other head and neck surgeons in a team effort to help injured troops.  "This was a unique opportunity, only available in a military fellowship program, which has enhanced my comfort and skill level in caring for these trauma patients," she said.
"With the support of the 59th Medical Wing cmdr., the graduate medical education department and all our staff, this inaugural rotation was a resounding success," Holck said. "This is another example of the military, and specifically WilfordHall Medical Center, leading the way in surgical management of trauma patients."

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Iraqi Commandos Learn Border Security       

FOB DELTA — Iraqi commandos graduated a 2-week training course on mounted and dismounted techniques, urban and close quarter combat, medical training and snap traffic control points at the Karmashiyah Border Fort, Dec. 29.
“The training was really great, and my Soldiers were very grateful to get the experience and training from the American Soldiers,” said Maj. Obed, Border SF bn cmdr., Dept of Border Enforcement.  “I wish working as one team and cooperation between us continues because we need their expertise and their help in this time right now, and the future too, so we can rely on ourselves,” Satar continued.
Soldiers from 2nd Plt, Btry B, 2nd Bn, 20th FAR instructed the training, which the Iraqi Border SF commandos can apply when conducting their missions.  “There are many differences from the training we used to use, which was based on the British style of training,” Satar said. “The new system is easy to understand, easy to use, and the Soldiers accept it fast and understand it easily. Even during break time, they practiced their movements that they learned from the team.”  The 2nd Plt Soldiers were each assigned a class to teach to the Iraqi DBE commandos.
“It’s a feeling of accomplishment at the end of the day, when you take these guys with their base knowledge in the morning and you see it all come to fruition in the afternoon - when they’re able to pull off whatever you taught them,” said 1st Lt. Layne Christopher, 2nd Plt., Btry B., 2-20 FAR.  “It’s really rewarding. It’s the most rewarding stuff I’ve done over here,” he said.
The graduates benefit from the training in more than just their personal improvement.  “For the NCOs in the training, they will be trainers in the future, train the other unit and use their expertise from the American training,” Satar said.
The Soldiers from 2nd Plt have another 2-week block of instruction with the second shift from the same company. “From there on out, we just hope to be partnered side-by-side with the guys we trained and hope we get to run some ops with them,” Christopher said.

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ISF secure warrants, arrest 13 suspected criminals

BALAD - During an operation Dec. 28 in central Iraq, Iraqi SOF captured a suspected criminal Amir of the Andalus neighborhood of Baghdad. The individual is believed to have constructed VBIEDs and conducted attacks targeting CF.
In western Iraq Dec. 28, Al Qaim SWAT personnel arrested 3 criminals. One of the individuals is believed to be a senior insurgent leader involved in weapons smuggling from Syria.
During an op Dec. 29 in the Numaniyah region of the Wasit Province, elements from IA arrested a suspected criminal leader who is believed to be responsible for attacks against Iraqi Security and CF.
Also on Dec. 29 in Baghdad, ISOF captured a suspected criminal in Qahira. The individual arrested is allegedly responsible for extra-judicial killings and IED attacks.
In northern Iraq, Baqubah SWAT forces arrested 3 suspected criminals in Hasawiyah, Dec. 29. The individuals are allegedly responsible for the killings and kidnappings of local civilians.
In western Mosul Dec. 29, IA captured 2 suspected criminals responsible for emplacing IEDs in the Hayy Al Uraybi area.
During a northern Iraq op in Mahmudiyah Dec. 29, ISOF captured 2 suspected criminals. These individuals are allegedly responsible for attacks against Iraqi Security and CF in the area.
"All of these ops were executed pursuant to valid arrest warrants issued by Iraqi judges based on evidence collected during the course of investigations into criminal misconduct," said Col. Bill Buckner, spokesman for the MNC - Iraq. "Once apprehended, suspects are processed in accordance with the Iraqi justice system, further enhancing the GoI's overall Rule of Law capabilities."

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IA detains 5 after IDF attack near Kut

FOB DELTA - Iraqi SF detained 5 individuals after an indirect fire attack southwest of al Kut in Wasit province, Dec. 31.  Iraqi Army scouts immediately investigated reports of suspicious individuals entering 2 separate houses.

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ISF detain suspected criminals responsible for roadside bombing

BAGHDAD - Iraqi SF detained 2 suspected criminals Dec. 30, who were allegedly responsible for attacking a SoI checkpoint in Baghdad's Rashid district.
In separate actions in the Saydiyah community, IA Soldiers supported by CF found 3 RPGs, 3 fuses, a battery and an unexploded 40 mm round.  Later that evening, ISF and CF soldiers also found 15 mortar fuses in a vacant house in the area.

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U.S. Forces - Afghanistan

Coalition forces target Haqqani network in Paktiya     

KABUL, Afghanistan – CF detained 8 suspected Haqqani militants, including the 2 targeted individuals, during an op to disrupt the Haqqani foreign fighter and roadside bomb network in Paktiya province, Dec 29.
In Shamul District, approx. 135 km south of Kabul City, CF apprehended 2 wanted Haqqani militants believed to traffic foreign fighters into Paktiya to conduct terrorist activities.  The targeted militants are also assessed to provide financial and logistical support to the terrorist org., facilitating attacks against innocent civilians such as the December 27 attack in Khost which killed 14 Afghan children as they were leaving school.
During the operation, CF searched the targeted building finding spools of wire, blasting caps and other roadside bomb making material. 
“Given the circumstances of the last few days and the tragic murder of 14 children, CF exercised great restraint and professionalism in detaining these terrorists,” said Col. Jerry O’Hara, a U.S. Forces Afghanistan spokesperson.  “It’s going to take greater Afghan citizen involvement to stop these networks.  They are the key to success here in Afghanistan.”

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