Dear Interested Reader,
Four original Tuskegee Airmen visited Joint Base Balad. "Sisters of Fallujah" break barriers, build security. Female Marine-only program helps Iraqi women. Bringing wind, solar energy to ISF. More than 80 students graduated from Commando course. Iraqi Medical Clinic visits small village. Sisters serving together at Camp Striker.
In Afghanistan, an interpreter dreams of becoming U.S. SF soldier. Gen. George Casey, Jr. shares insights during visit. Joint forces kill 5 militants, detain 16.
Joanna
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May 1, 2009
332nd Air Expeditionary Wing RSS
Tuskegee Airmen ... the Legacy Continues
Story by SSgt. Dilia Ayala
From left to right, retired Maj. George Boyd; retired Lt. Col. Alexander Jefferson; former SSgt. Philip Broome; and retired Lt. Col. James Warren, all Original Tuskegee Airmen, pose in front of barrier art depicting a "Red Tail" P-51, April 24. The famed World War II pioneers met with Airmen assigned to the 332nd AEW on April 23-24. The 332nd AEW traces its military lineage back to the Tuskegee Airmen, who were part of the 332nd Fighter Group.
JOINT BASE BALAD – History was made here on April 23-25, as 4 original Tuskegee Airmen visited the 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing and met the Airmen who are continuing their legacy in the 21st century.
"I'm really thrilled at the opportunity to see and associate with such fine young people that represent my country, America," said Warren. "It's a pleasure to see the wonderful things that you are doing."
For only the second time, Original Tuskegee Airmen visited the 332nd AEW -- which traces its military lineage back to the 332nd Fighter Group in World War II, which was comprised of the Tuskegee Airmen.
"I never thought, 65 years ago, as a member of the 332nd Fighter Group in Ramitelli, Italy, that we would come to this," said Jefferson. "It's above all expectations. We came up under some of the most adverse conditions: segregation, discrimination, even in the military, and we had to overcome this by persistence.
"As our leader Gen. Benjamin Oliver Davis said, 'persevere, stay with it, fight it, (and) overcome it,'" he continued. "I think this is part of it, part of the result of Benjamin Oliver Davis Jr., and a culmination of many of our hopes."
While the 332nd FG is known for its achievements, ultimately flying more than 15,000 sorties with 261 aerial victories to its credit, the group is also known for the adversity it faced. "During and after WWII, the Tuskegee Airmen faced immense hardships both abroad and at home," noted Col. Bruce Cox, 332nd Expeditionary Ops Group dep. cmdr. "They were forced to endure both personal and professional challenges that would boggle the mind of the modern-day Airman. "Setting high expectations, with committed teamwork and inspirational leadership, this extraordinary group of men overcame all obstacles and went on to achieve incredible combat results," the colonel added.
Now, the original Tuskegee Airmen see the ultimate fruit of their hard-earned labors. "The things that I've had to go through, I just forgot them and prayed that the day would come, and the day has come, when I see the situation that exists now," Jefferson said. "I realize that what I went through was the basics, or a good foundation being laid for those that are here today to carry this job on. You have a job to do – do it. It's all for America."
During their visit here, the original Tuskegee Airmen shared their wisdom and also encouraged service members to continue to better themselves as individuals. "You have a wonderful opportunity to get as much education as you can," said Boyd. "Warfare is not going to change; you're going to be charged with killing the enemy before he kills you. However, you can improve yourself as a citizen. You can vote. Protect that system because you need it. "Be the best that you can be," he added. "If you see someone next to you that is not doing all they can to be the best they can be, help them along. Be a friend. You cannot get there by yourself."
As the original Tuskegee Airmen interacted with Airmen here and shared their stories, Capt. Jeannie Berry, 332nd Expeditionary Medical Ops Support Sqdrn trauma nurse, was glad the famous Airmen made the visit. "It's wonderful to be able to showcase what we do here every day," said the captain deployed here from Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany. "It's an honor to carry on the Tuskegee legacy, because they were such a great group of men. "The wing should be proud to be called Tuskegee Airmen," she continued. "We need to continue doing the good work that we've been doing, and continue their legend. They paved the way for everyone else in the military."
Not surprisingly, 332 AEW Airmen's admiration and appreciation for the living legends continued throughout the visit - especially during the combat dining-in, April 24.
"It's been an honor to have some of our legacy and history with us," said Brig. Gen. Brian Bishop, 332nd AEW cmdr, "telling us what it's like to be a Tuskegee Airman. If it wasn't for them, we wouldn't be able to do the things we're doing today."
Lt. Gen. Gary North, 9th AF and U.S. Air Forces Central cmdr, offered his perspective about the American patriots he's escorting throughout the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility. "What is captured in these gentlemen is an incredible ethos of America," said Gen. North. "They fought adversity at home. They fought adversity overseas. They conquered and won. "There's a Senior Airman in the room, there's a 2nd lieutenant in the room, who will remember tonight when they're 90 years old," the general added.
Adding to the night's festivities, the audience sang "Happy Birthday" to Sgt Broome, who will celebrate his 90th birthday next month. In addition, General North announced the 332nd AEW has been awarded the AF Meritorious Unit Award for the period Feb. 1, 2008 to Jan. 31, 2009. "That's because of the work each and every one of you does each and every day," said Gen. Bishop.
Concluding the dining-in, the original Tuskegee Airmen signed memorabilia and took photos. "We had history right here," said SSgt. Kelli Wietlisbach, 332nd Expeditionary Medical Support Sqdrn apheresis tech, deployed from the 181st Intel Wing, Terre Haute, Ind. "I had the privilege of escorting Col. Warren today. He showed me his photos, and told me his story. "He lived through 3 wars," he continued. "He knew we could do it then, and we can continue to succeed now. We just have to do it. Fighting a war isn't easy, but, when you fight for a country that does not treat you as an equal and you don't give up, that is impressing to me. It just put it all in perspective and brought it full circle. How can I not want to do this? Be here? I can't let them [Tuskegee Airmen] down."
Hundreds of Airmen from the 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing pay tribute to four original Tuskegee Airmen during a combat dining-in, April 24.
Brig. Gen. Brian Bishop greets former SSgt. Philip Broome, an Original Tuskegee Airman, with a 332nd AEW patch upon his arrival, April 23.
Former SSgt. Philip Broome, an original Tuskegee Airman, smiles as the audience at the 332nd sings him "Happy Birthday" to mark his 90th birthday next month.
Retired Lt. Col. James Warren, an original Tuskegee Airman, shares his scrapbook with SSgts. Kelli Wietlisbach, and Alphonso Price, 332nd Expeditionary Security Forces Sqdrn, April 24. Wietlisbach is deployed from the Indiana Air National Guard, and Price is deployed here from Hickam AF Base, Hawaii.
SSgt. Jason Delcore, 332nd Expeditionary Aircraft Maintenance Sqdrn F-16 avionics system craftsman, explains aircraft-forms documentation to former SSgt. Philip Broome. Delcore is deployed here from Hill AF Base, Utah.
Retired Maj. George Boyd speaks with Airmen.
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DoD Imagery
Sisters of Fallujah break barriers, build security
Story by Cpl. Chris Lyttle
Sgt. Natalie Cespuglio, a Sisters of Fallujah trainer with RCT-1, assists an Iraqi women in firing an M9 pistol on the firing range, April 21. The Sisters of Fallujah undergo several days of security training to certify and work alongside IP at entry control points (ECP).
FALLUJAH – Entry control points (ECP) throughout Fallujah are designed to protect the city from harm and prevent people from transporting illegal contraband such as weapons and explosive materials. CF discovered the enemy exploiting the cultural sensitivity precluding the search of females by having females carry contraband into the city.
CF then employed female search teams from units such as Combat Logistics Bn-1 (CLB-I) to alleviate the threat of women being used to sneak contraband such as electrical devices, wires, and other bomb making material. This still posed a problem as the female Marines could only be pulled away from their primary duties for short periods.
To rebalance the shift in Coalition manpower and further transition the role of security from CF to IP, last year 3rd Bn, 5th Marine Regt began the Sisters of Fallujah, a program designed to train local Iraqi women in security ops to search other Iraqi women entering the city through ECPs. The trained Iraqi women were employed throughout the city and have proven themselves to be an effective security element in the prevention of dangerous items entering the city.
3rd Bn, 6th Marine Regt returned to Iraq this year as part of RCT-1 and continued the program with the help of female Marines from CLB-1, and instructors from the Int'l Police Advisors (IPA), as they recently graduated several new recruits to work at ECPs throughout the city.
“Their main goal is to check the females, check bags and search the children as well,” said Anna Bailey, an IPA who is leading the sisters’ program for her first time. “In Iraqi culture, the men are not allowed to touch the women in routine searches. There’s a safety issue there that needs to be addressed, and that’s when the community chose to step up.”
Fallujah follows cities such as Baghdad and Ramadi in the societal changes allowing women to serve a law enforcement role. Although the Sisters of Fallujah solely perform their duties at ECPs, the training to become a member covers an array of relevant topics. The women participated in lectures on police ethics, human rights, torture, women’s issues, working in a terrorist environment, small-arms training and first aid.
Bailey said the IPA’s and Marines do not intend to make the women IPs, but to give them the training for their current duties, and prepare them if the city were to one day promote women with more responsibilities.
The new sisters came from areas in and away from the city to take part in this program, and they're doing their part to restore the security of Iraq. 29-year-old ‘Ruby,’ a newly graduated Sister of Fallujah, said she moved from Baghdad to work here after her mother, who is a fellow sister, told her about this job opportunity. “She said she was willing to work with CF after she realized they were not the enemy,” Ruby said through an interpreter. “Her feelings before are opposite from now. She said she feels closer (to Marines), she is very serious about her job, and she feels stronger.”
The Marines and IPAs reinforced their new sense of empowerment when the sisters fired AK-47 rifles and pistols on the firing range during training day 3. It was weapons training that they may not use at ECPs at the moment, but it instilled a higher level of confidence within the women.
Most of the sisters admitted they had never handled a weapon before. That was evident when they stepped up to the firing line at 25 yards. With hands trembling, and reluctant to be the first to pull the trigger on the line, the sisters each paired up with CLB-1 Marines to ensure the weapons were handled properly, and the rounds were landing on the targets, or at least safely in the right direction. Nearing the end of the shoot, the nervousness disappeared along with the rounds, as the Marines and Iraqi women opened up and became more at ease with each other.
“I’m scared the first time, but after I feel better,” Ruby said. “I feel better about everything, the searches and the shooting, everything. I feel different. I’m happy about this job because I feel like I’m important with the people when I search them. I feel important to my family now because I have this job. This is good for me.”
After the shooting, the Iraqi women were tasked with performing on-the-job training at the ECPs. This gave the women the opportunity to see what their duties will entail, to include personal searches, item searches and effective questioning.
Sgt. Natalie Cespuglio, an on-the-job trainer from CLB-1, has worked with the sisters in-classroom and at ECPs for 3 months, and explained why the success of the sisters’ program is not only important for the security of Iraq, but for the women who are standing up in a security role here for the first time. “We can’t give up on them, because if we give up on them, they’ll give up on themselves,” Cespuglio said. “They really do look up to us. They want to know everything about us. They want to know how we live and what we do. They tell us their situations or problems they have at home with their spouse or their kids, and ask us for advice. We try to point them in the right direction and tell them the different options that they have, and we compare. They say yeah we can do this, we can’t do that. Even though they’re older than us, we’re like their older sisters.”
At the end of the training, the new Sisters of Fallujah were honored through a graduation ceremony and given certificates for their training. Lt. Col. James Zientek, the bn cmdr of 3rd Bn. 6th Marines, addressed the sisters and thanked them for their willingness to take part in the program. “I'd like to express my heartfelt thanks for your participation in this program and for doing your part to ensure a safe and secure Fallujah,” Zientek said to the new Sisters of Fallujah. “I speak for my Marines and I know Faisal Zobai, Fallujah chief of police and Col Faisal’s police all look forward to working with you for the greater security of Fallujah.”
Bailey described the overall challenge of teaching through cultural barriers and how, after her first class, the benefit for Iraqi women comes through employing them beyond their conventional occupations. “The training through an interpreter is kind of difficult, but once the concepts were understood it was good,” Bailey said. This is the beginning, so this is all history in the making. Hopefully over time, the men of the area will catch on and realize that these women are needed for their safety and for the families of this community, and hopefully they’ll realize that they can do other jobs as well.”
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DoD Imagery
CAMP FALLUJAH
Lance Cpl. Brenda Trosset, 20, volunteered for the Iraqi Women’s Engagement program in order to meet Iraqis and be a part of the rebuilding of Iraq. The IWE is a female Marine-only program to establish communication between MNF-W and Iraqi women throughout al Anbar province. The IWE is responsible for establishing day care centers, clinics and small businesses for Iraqi women, in order to facilitate the building of essential services in the province.
The Marines with the IWE interact with the Iraqi women with the goal of listening to their concerns and relaying those concerns to MNF-W and the PRT authorities. The mission of the IWE is to establish communication with Iraqi women while remaining sensitive to Iraqi culture.
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Multi-National Security Transition Command – Iraq Release
Bringing Wind, Solar Energy to the ISF
SHIHA — April 26, in an effort to create a greener environment, CF are proposing to the Iraqis to build a reusable energy system with a combination wind turbine power plant and solar panels to support Iraqi border fort outposts around the country. This will provide a reliable power source to the watch towers and it would require a minimal logistical chain to support the Iraqi SF.
Multi-National Security Transition Command – Iraq (MNSTC-I) is developing a concept to utilize renewable energy for the future security of Iraq’s border. The proposed location for the test project is the Shiha Outpost South, recently built by the GoI and in excellent condition. The site has been previously wired, but it doesn’t have a power source installed. This location is accessible for trucks and can easily be monitored.
The cost associated with completing this project is $220K—including site prep, wiring of the tower, power controlling, inverter and batteries. Solar panels and controllers will be part of the cost component, with the majority of funding being allocated for mobilization, design, profit and fees.
This wind turbine is the most economical option for the Iraqis as a power source because it provides 2,000 watts of energy with average wind above 14 mph, 24 hours a day without a generator or associated logistics.
Solar panels will also be used because the location can provide 6 hours of full sunlight a day. There will be a portable room heater available for the winter months and equipment for cooling of electronics for the summer months. The batteries will provide backup power to the plant for 10 hours with no wind, and longer if power usage is conserved.
Currently, they use car batteries primarily to keep the radios operational. The inspection and maintenance on the wind turbine will occur yearly, with periodic inspections of the batteries, terminal lugs and other electronic devices used to assist in its op. For optimal performance, the system should be kept in a clean, dry space between 50 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
U.S. AF Lt. Col Tom Williams said, “MNSTC-I’s role is to build the infrastructure so the Dept of Border Enforcement can achieve their mission of protecting the borders. We're pushing to complete this project with ISF funds by the end of this fiscal year, so we can hand over the concept to the GoI for their consideration and possible implementation.
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Combined Joint Special Ops TF - Arabian Peninsula
Iraqi Army Commando Graduates Emerge Hardened, Ready to Protect Iraq
By SSgt. Bryan Franks
Iraqi Special Warfare Center (ISWC) and School Commando Course students put all the training together during the combat op block of instruction, April 12. More than 80 students graduated from the Commando course, April 16, in Baghdad.
BAGHDAD — More than 80 ISOF Soldiers recently completed nearly 50 days of dawn-to-dusk training to join the ranks of Iraq's most elite Soldiers. "You're taking up a place of honor in this org.," said Iraqi Maj. Gen. Abdu Ghani, cmdr of the Counter-Terrorism Command (CTC) and guest speaker for the graduation. "It's up to you to carry out the missions that will provide our country with security. Terrorism will not be the future because of you."
The ISOF bde has Soldiers based throughout the country to provide the GoI a premiere counter-terrorism force that is ready to strike terrorists at a moment's notice. "You've been good students," the CTC cmdr said. "There're a lot of missions waiting for you. You're the men of the hour and the other Soldiers will look at you with respect."
Commando training took the students through blocks of individual and team-building instruction to include stress mgt, marksmanship, fast-roping, close-quarter battle, combat ops and continuous physical training.
"The training was very good," said a major from Baghdad who will serve in the 7th Regional Commando Bn in Mosul. "I started crying because we're done with our training, and I can go to Mosul and carry out missions," he said.
This was the 4th class of elite Soldiers taught exclusively by instructors from the ISWC and School. The Iraqi instructors constantly pushed the would-be commandos to the limit. "I never thought of quitting. I treated it like a convoy ... and they [convoys] never stop," said a 21-year-old Baghdad native. "We all feel like we're giving something back to this country." His father, who was on hand to watch his son walk in his footsteps, was proud that he completed the commando course, so they can now both wear the commando patch. "I'm very proud that he finished his training ... I never had any doubts," the father said. "Like father, like son."
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MULTI-NATIONAL FORCE-IRAQ
Forces arrest suspected JAM Special Groups and Promise Day Brigade associates
BAGHDAD – CF arrested 6 suspected members of the JAM Special Groups and Promise Day Bde and killed a suspected network criminal April 26, in Al Kut.
In an op fully coordinated and approved by the GoI, CF targeted a network financier, who is also responsible for smuggling weapons into the country to support JAM Special Groups and Promise Day Bde.
CF approached a residence believed to be the location of the suspect. As forces approached the residence an individual with a weapon came out of the home. Forces assessed him to be hostile, and they engaged the man, killing him. During the engagement, a woman in the area moved into the line of fire and was also struck by gunfire. A CF medic treated her on site, but she died of her wounds before she could be evacuated.
CF apprehended 6 other JAM Special Groups and Promise Day Bde associates without incident.
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145th Mobile Pubilc Affairs Detachment RSS
Iraqi Medical Clinic Visits Small Town; Big Turnout
Story by Spc. Christopher Bruce
DIYALA - In a small village south of Al Udaim, in the Diyala province of Iraq, children, women and men lined up outside a school house with eager anticipation of receiving medical care, that otherwise wouldn't be easy to obtain. As children frowned and cried from seeing the needle that would deliver vaccinations of all types, parents smiled knowing their kids were being treated with the best medical care in the area.
Over 150 patients were treated and more than 100 children were immunized at a temporary clinic in the once al Qaida-controlled village of Shuzayf, April 23.
Leading doctor of the clinic and dir. of Al Udaim Medical Center, Dr. Omar Achmed, said the villagers were too far from Al Udaim, and needed medical treatment after years of fighting with al-Qaida. "We came to this village to give medical care and vaccinations to the children. We're very happy to do our work here in a village for people who were exposed to terrorism for a long time," Achmed said.
The medical clinic visit included immunizations, health screenings and the administration of medicines of all types. Men and women were able to consult with several different doctors and get routine checkups.
At one point, a child receiving a vaccination clenched his fists and began to cry as the doctor poked needle into his skin. Even as the needle penetrated his skin, his face lit up and he giggled and joked to his brother, amused at the lack of pain; his enthusiasm helped to persuade other children not to worry.
Iraqi doctors were in charge of setting up the clinic and the IA pulled security. The IA checked everyone who entered the school house compound for any weapons or explosives. Soldiers with HHC, 1st Bn, 24th Inf Regt were invited as well, but played more of an over-watch role to the entire process. They kept out of the way and let the Iraqis take charge of the op.
IA soldiers, working with CF soldiers, passed out flyers the day before the event, helping to the event's success, according to SSgt. Toloai Sosene. He said the flyers were passed out to Shuzayf, as well as all the neighboring villages.
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Multi-National Division-Central RSS
Sisters on the Battlefield
Story by Pfc. Jasmine Walthall
SSgt. Melodie Hunt (left) and her sister Pfc. Mallorie Hunt, stand in front of a Military Tactical Vehicle. The Hunt sisters are currently deployed to Baghdad, as a part of the 449th Theater Aviation Bde out of Morrisville, N.C., and 47th Forward Support Bn out of Baumholder, Germany.
CAMP STRIKER – A helpful part of any deployment is a stable support group. Some Soldiers turn to friends within their unit for this support. Others are lucky enough to have a family member in country with them.
Staff Sgt. Melodie Hunt and Pfc. Mallorie A. Hunt are sisters who are currently deployed to Baghdad. Although in different units, they still find time together.
"We were still in the states when we found out that Mallorie would be at the same place as me," said Melodie. "It was pleasing to know that I'd have someone there for me, and it made our parents more comfortable us being together for my sister's first deployment."
The Hunt sisters, who are 12 years apart, also have this deployment to thank for strengthening their relationship. "It was good to be able to spend what time together that we could," said Melodie. "We work out together, and sometimes eat meals, which is more than we had when she was in Germany."
"The older we have become, the closer we have gotten," said Mallorie. "Sharing this deployment has helped that."
SSgt. Melodie (left) and her sister Pfc. Mallorie share a sisterly moment during their lunch time.
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U.S. Forces Afghanistan RSS
Afghan Interpreter Dreams of Becoming U.S. Special Forces Soldier
Story by SSgt. Marie Schult
KABUL – It's a means to an end and darn good dream. That's how it sounds when an Afghan interpreter, known as James, lays out his plans, goals and dreams at a coalition firebase in western Afghanistan.
"The career I want to have for my future life is to join the U.S. Army and come back here as a U.S. SF Soldier," James said. In his eyes it's the best way to help his country fight the War on Terror.
James has been working with USSF Soldiers since he was 18 years old. He learned English in high school and has been putting those skills to good use in the last 5 years, helping the coalition communicate with good guys, bad guys, those on the fence or those who just do not care. James is more than just an interpreter with a penchant for action. He supports poor families in Kabul, sends other people's children to private schools, listens to country music and sports a cowboy hat.
"He knows the language [English] better than all the other interpreters combined, and he knows all about American culture. Just look at his room ... it looks like a college dorm room," said a SF intel sgt who works with James. The room quip is not entirely true. His room is immaculate, and his clothes are hung and spaced in his closet. However, what is true is his value to the team.
"He's substantially responsible for any success I've had out here," the intel sgt said about James' ability to truly understand what is needed of his language and cultural skills. "He conveys what's in your voice, not just your words," added a SF weapons sgt.
The team that he works for fully supports his dream. "You don't have to question his loyalty ... he's been blown up, and he's been on more missions than any person on this camp combined. I go home, but he stays here," said the weapons sgt. "He did every op with us, and, at the time, he was the youngest interpreter, but he was the best one," the weapons sgt added.
James put his green card application in and is simply waiting for approval. He has numerous letters of recommendation espousing his loyalty, dedication, and remarking on his valorous deeds for USSF.
James said he attributes being well-grounded to the lessons he's learned from his family. "They've explained to me how it's important to achieve and aim for what I really want in my life. Life is once and you never come back," he said. "I've been threatened with my life for working with the Americans multiple times," James said. "I just didn't give it any importance. With the job I have, I have to pretty much risk it in order to pursue."
James is not only dedicated to the USSF Soldiers with which he serves. He's dedicated to the people of his country as well. James recalled a time when he and his wife were eating dinner one night. A young boy came by their table begging for money. James invited him to sit and bought him dinner. Then James and his wife "adopted" the boy's family after learning his mother was a widow supporting 4 daughters and a son by herself. James and his wife are paying for the mother and the 2 oldest daughters to take sewing classes, enabling them to become seamstresses. They enrolled the boy into a good school, and he is also being tutored after school at an automotive repair shop to learn a trade.
"My main message for the people, especially Afghans, is that you can rely on other people, but rely on yourself the most. Don't only wait for others to make a difference. Be proactive, take initiative and start it with yourself." he said.
Judging by his actions, James is a special kind of person, one who does not have to be asked to do the right thing. "To go join the military, that makes him a different breed of person," said a SF team leader.
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Special to American Forces Press Service
Army Chief of Staff Shares Insights During Afghanistan Visit
By Army Sgt. John Zumer
BAGRAM AIRFIELD, April 27, 2009 – A revitalized spirit is among the things the Army’s top officer noted April 24, during his 3rd visit to Afghanistan in the past year and his first in 4 months. “There’s a great sense of energy here,” Army Gen. George Casey Jr. said. “When I was here in December, I saw a little apprehension.”
Casey attributed the upturn to additional troops who have arrived in Afghanistan recently. They, and more additional soldiers on the way, are putting CF in a much better position as the 101st Abn Div prepares to hand responsibility for the combined joint TF, to the 82nd Abn Div, he said.
The Army has been working hard to meet the higher manpower totals envisioned a couple years ago, the gen. said, noting he has long been concerned about stretching the Army so thin that it would be unable to accomplish present and future missions. “We were out of balance,” Casey said. The original goal was to grow the active-duty force to 547,000 soldiers by the end of 2011, he added, but the Army attained that level 2 years early. The biggest impact for soldiers, is that future burdens of frequent deployments may be lessened. “The most important thing we can do to get ourselves back in balance is to increase the amount of time soldiers spend at home between deployments,” Casey said, and he added that once demand comes down, “dwell time” at home can be increased and perhaps deployment lengths could be shortened.
Casey proudly noted that his travels have elicited many favorable comments directed toward the professionalism and competence of the Army’s NCO corps. Those comments, he said, led him and Sgt. Maj. of the Army Kenneth Preston to proclaim 2009 as the 'Year of the NCO.' “We haven’t done this in 20 years,” Casey said. It was important, he said, to recognize NCOs, to inform Congress and the American people what an asset NCOs are, and to enhance the skills of NCOs, and give them necessary tools for future success.
Changes in planned deployments and theaters of op for certain Army units have begun, Casey confirmed, and he said he sees encouraging signs. One positive aspect is that Gen. David McKiernan, cmdr of U.S. and NATO forces in Afghanistan, has the forces he needs to provide security for Afghanistan’s upcoming elections.
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American Forces Press Service
Joint Forces in Afghanistan Kill Five Militants, Detain 16
WASHINGTON, April 27, 2009 – In Kandahar province’s Zharmi district, Afghan and CF conducted a complex op after receiving a tip on the location of Taliban operatives. The suspects were connected to bomb-making and other questionable activities, including operating a checkpoint in the district to collect money from local residents.
When the assault force attempted to search several compounds in the targeted village, they encountered armed militants who did not comply with instructions to leave their buildings. Two men were killed when forces entered the building, and the men attempted to engage the force with small-arms fire. Similarly, on 3 separate compounds, 3 other men refused to comply with instructions given by Afghan and CF and were killed in a subsequent engagement. A search of the remaining compounds resulted in Afghan and CF detaining 10 suspects.
In a separate op northeast of Jalalabad in the Sarkani district of Konar province, Afghan forces, with a small element of CF in support, searched a compound where suspected al-Qaida operatives were located. The forces detained 2 suspects associated with attacks against CF in the province.
In ops yesterday, Afghan army commandos, assisted by CF, captured a Taliban cmdr in Farah province’s Gulistan district. The detainee has been directly involved with numerous attacks on Afghan and CF in the Gulistan Valley, as well as kidnapping, weapons trafficking, and facilitating movement of foreign fighters, officials said. A search of the detainee’s compound uncovered a RPG launcher with rounds, a machine gun with ammo, an AK-47 assault rifle with ammo, a mine and numerous bomb-making materials.
In an overnight op that began April 25, Afghan and CF detained 3 men in eastern Afghanistan during efforts to capture a militant associated with the Haqqani terrorist network, and the Baitullah Mahsud extremist group in Pakistan. In Khowst province, the combined force captured a terrorist known to facilitate suicide attacks against Afghan citizens and CF in Khowst and Paktia provinces. As the targeted individual's vehicle approached an intersection, Afghan forces signaled the vehicle to stop and successfully called for the passengers to exit the vehicle. Without incident, all occupants complied. The targeted individual and 2 men traveling with him were detained.