TROOP SCOOP

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/6-30

Dear Interested Reader,

Afghan Army receives instruction on guard duty at Camp Leatherneck.  GoA officials/Marines assess status in Marjah.  Cpl. Paul Spies hopes to 'spark some innovation' against IED threat.  Transfer of authority ceremony at Camp Phoenix.

Iraq:  Sharing the knowledge of maintenance at COB Delta.  Clearing Jalula one neighborhood at a time in Diyala.  Suspected AQI member and criminal assocs. arrested in northern Iraq.

Joanna

____________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

DVIDS

Afghan Army Receives Instruction on Guard Duty 

(Photos by Sgt. Heidi Agostini)

CAMP LEATHERNECK - First Lt. Christopher Larreur, plt cmdr, 1st Plt, Alpha Co, 3rd Low Altitude Air Defense Bn, instructs ANA leadership on reporting procedures while on guard duty. The 3rd LAADB is partnered with the ANA.  

Capt. Mirhafizullah of the ANA's Garrison Support Unit, Camp Shorabak, is shown how members of the Bahraini Special SECFOR record acitivity in the guard tower log book on Camp Leatherneck, June 26. 

-30-

DVIDS

GoA Officials/Marines assess status

Story by Lance Cpl. Benjamin Crilly

ANA Col. Nowroz, comm. officer, gives a situation report to Lt. Col. Kyle Ellison, the comm. officer of 2nd Bn, 6th Marine Regt, during the Regional stability shura at the Marjah District Center, Marjah, June 26. The Marines of 2/6 will be assuming ops in northern Marjah to support the ANA forces in the region.   

MARJAH – The shura kicked off with a bazaar walk through the streets of Marjah, where the Taliban was removed and local governance has been implemented throughout the past 5 months.  Afghan residents filled the streets and interacted with the dignitaries as they walked through the area, which has seen development projects and progress made, as stability is being restored to the region.

Helmand Dep. Provincial Gov. Sattar spoke on behalf of the GoA and the gov’s office. Although largely a ceremonial visit, he endorsed the shura and encouraged further shuras as a way to reach out to the local population. 

“We've found that there's no solution with war.  All the solutions according to our experiences are with holding shuras with the people,” Sattar said. “We should try to gain their trust, talk to make a good relationship with them, and encourage people to participate in all activities of the govt.  All success is in the relationship with the local population.”

“We will support the GoA in whatever way we can,” said Phillip Hatton, the Marjah District stabilization advisor.  “It’s vital that the whole stabilization security effort is owned by the GoA, and it's represented on the ground.” For the stability of the Helmand River Valley specifically, the shura focused on regional ID cards, protection for local govt officials and alternative crops. 

RCT 7 presented a new photo ID card that would identify the card holder to Afghan and CF. The cards will contain info to identify the individual’s district, and also associate them to their weapon, vehicle and residence.  The govs. approved the card for the districts.

“What was really important for me was the ID card.  I personally appreciate it, love it, like it because it was fantastic,” said Mohammad Fahim, the Garmsir District gov. “It’s a great idea, because through this ID card we can do our task very well, and we can verify the good people and the bad people.”

At the last shura, the govs mentioned their elders and council members needed more protection, and were falling victim to the intimidations and threats of the Taliban. The govs conferred with CF about the need for and ways to protect those elements of local infrastructure from such offenses.  Creating local guard forces, militias or issuing weapons, were some of the ideas that came out of this dialogue. 

The final topic discussed was agriculture and alternative crops for the upcoming planting season.  “What we're trying to do is create an entire year cycle on paper; that is, an agricultural cycle that has no poppy in it at all,” said John Gerlaugh, the U.S. Dept of State regimental governance advisor.  “So, what crops will be planted when, what kind of substitute crops could be injected into that cycle, would replace poppy and be just as profitable, if not more, for them to pursue.”

The governors concluded the shura by scheduling another regional shura at the end of July, to discuss more issues that face the local govts, such as education and the upcoming national elections.

Haji Manaf, the Nawa District gov., is greeted by Capt. Gulam Wali, the Marjah police chief, upon arriving to the regional stability shura.  Manaf is the oldest and most experienced district gov. of the Helmand River Valley, and has established a good repoire with the both the Afghan people and CF over his year and half term as Nawa District gov. 

Col. Randall Newman, the comm. officer of RCT 7, greets local shop owners during a bazaar walk in Marjah.  Newman took part in the regional stability shura.

Haji Zahir, the Marjah district gov., talks to local shop owners during a bazaar walk.  Zahir's district hosted the 2nd regional shura., less then 5 months after the restoration of local governance, to discuss the stability of the Helmand River Valley.  

Mohammad Fahim, the Garmsir District gov., embraces a local shop owner.

-30-

DVIDS

Engineer Hopes to ‘Spark Some Innovation’ Against IED Threat

Story by Staff Sgt. Jennifer Brofer

Cpl. Paul Spies, 23, a combat engr with Alpha Co, 9th ESB, 1st Marine Logistics Group (Fwd), glances at a wall adorned with framed photos of fallen brethren at the RC- SW HQ building at Camp Leatherneck, June 23. 

CAMP LEATHERNECK – Waiting outside a conference room in the RC-SW HQ building, Cpl. Paul Spies passes the time by glancing at the wall adorned with wood-framed pictures of fallen brethren, many of whom were killed by IED blasts.  A few moments later, Maj. Gen. Richard Mills, commander of RC (SW), walks into the conference room already full of unit cmdrs. Spies waits patiently for his name to be called. 

Spies is waiting to brief the cmdrs during a counter-IED conference, and he has 15 minutes to convey the idea that he envisioned would help combat the threat that has claimed thousands of lives, during counter insurgency ops.  At 10:05 a.m., he's called into the room.

Inspired by the org. in which volunteers pick up trash along highway roads to keep them litter-free, Spies, came up with the “Afghan Adopt a Road Initiative,” which is aimed at reducing the number of deadly roadside bombs. The program, if approved, would work like this: for every 30 days Afghan villagers help keep their roads clear of IEDs, they would receive aid-based incentives in return. 

In Spies’ initiative, 2 types of incentives would be offered:  Basic Expendable Services (BES), and Enhanced Infrastructural Support (EIS), according to Spies’ proposal.  BES, such as medical and dental care, would be offered monthly if no IED incidents occur.  In addition, points would be awarded to villagers for every 30-day period that is incident free; the points could then be used to purchase EIS projects such as schools, wells and irrigation. 

“As soon as an IED incident occurred in that village’s area, the BES would immediately be suspended pending an investigation of the event,” cited Spies’ proposal. “If the next 30 days were incident free, the BES aid would be employed following the 30 day period.”

For 6 weeks, he used his down time to draft the proposal in his berthing area at FOB Dwyer, which culminated in a 15-page document, outlining the strategy he hopes cmdrs will employ.
“My co. cmdr thought it was a pretty novel idea,” said Spies, who graduated in Sept. with a degree in Planning, Public Policy and Mgt from the University of Oregon.

 
After completing his proposal, his leaders passed the idea up the chain of command, and it eventually wound up on the desk of Maj. Gen. Mills, who “loved” the idea, said Spies.  He was then asked to brief cmdrs during the counter-IED conference, gathered to generate ideas that would hopefully defeat the IED threat. 

“I'm always challenging Marines to come up with a smarter way of doing business,” said Lt. Col. Ted Adams, comm. officer of 9th ESB, in an e-mail interview. “I know the way we’ll be more successful in this fight is in our ingenuity. Technology isn’t always the answer; smart Marines are.” 

At 10:20 a.m., Spies emerges from the conference room. His 15 minutes are up. What’s the verdict?  “Good,” said Spies, who added that cmdrs were generally on board with the idea, but had questions regarding funding for the program. 

Although funding is one of the top concerns for launching the initiative, Spies noted it may be eligible for funding under the Cmdr’s Emergency Response Program (CERP), a tool first used in Iraq to promote social and economic development in war-torn areas. 

“The beauty of it is, the program won’t cost any money if it doesn’t work,” said Spies, who’s served in the Marine Corps 3-1/2 years.  If it does work, we save the cost of an MRAP, a few thousand dollars, or even a Marine’s life.”

“If Marines have ideas like these, pass them up their chains of command,” Spies said. “Hopefully ideas like these will spark some innovation in the Marine Corps.”

-30-

DVIDS

Transfer of Authority Ceremony 

(Navy photos by MCS Master Chief Kevin Elliott)

CAMP PHOENIX - TF Cyclone cmdr, Army Brig. Gen. Lonnie Culver, right, helps Command Sgt Maj Michael Lucas case the colors of the 38th ID, Indiana Army NG during a Transfer of Authority ceremony, June 26, 2010, Kabul.  The 38th ID transfered authority of the Kabul Base Cluster Installation Mgt Command to TF Rushmore, 196th Maneuvering Enhancement Bde, S. Dakota Army NG. 

Brig. Gen. Theodore Johnson and Command Sgt. Maj. Darwin Rahder unveil the colors of the 196th Maneuver Enhancement Bde.  The 196th is taking over command from the 38th. 

Replacing the command of the 38th, the command of the 196th stand in front of the colors to represent their new authority. The new command includes, left to right, Maj. Jason Kettwig, dir. of logistics; Lt. Col. Patrick Pardy, dir. of plans and training; Col. Terry Ommen, dep. cmdr; Maj. Aaron Schultz, dir. of human resources, and Lt. Col. Andrew Gerlach, XO. 

-30-

IRAQI STORIES:

DVIDS

Sharing the Knowledge of Maintenance 

(Photos by Spc. David Dyer)

COB DELTA - Spc. Ronald Depalma, a mechanic with Troop D, 3rd Sqdrn, 1st Cav Regt, 3rd HBCT, 3rd ID, and an IA Soldier inspect a vehicle during the preventative maintenance checks and services training, June 15.    

Spc. Depalma reviews how to properly check fluid levels with Iraqi soldiers.

Spc. Daniel Phillips, a mechanic with Troop D, and Iraqi soldiers, remove the cover of an air filter. 

-30-

DVIDS

Clearing Jalula One Neighborhood at a Time

Story by Pfc. Adrian Muehe

2nd Lt. Jan Dudzinski, the mortar plt leader for Crazyhorse Troop, 1st Sqdrn, 14th Cav Regt, 3rd Stryker BCT, 2nd ID, meets with ISF leaders in Jalula, after a clearing op, June 20.  The IA and IP responsible for this area conducted the mission as part of Op Jalula Peacemaker.  U.S. forces were on standby as a quick reaction force to respond to an emergency at the request of the ISF.   

DIYALA — “We've had strangers come into Jalula,” said IA Maj. Yahia, cmdr of the 8th Emergency Reaction Force (ERF). “They've been chased out of other cities by our forces, and now they're here.”

In direct response to a series of attacks against U.S. forces in Jalula, the IA and IP in the area started Op Jalula Peacemaker, a series of clearing ops in specific neighborhoods.  Assisting and advising the 8th ERF and IA Div troops are Soldiers from Mortar Plt, Crazyhorse Troop, who accompanied them on their 4th mission of the op.

While conducting searches of specific areas of the city, the IA and ERF speak with community members, asking for their assistance in finding people of interest, said Mahmood.  “People are scared,” said Mahmood. “They're afraid of these terrorists, and it's comforting for them to see us doing these missions.”

As the IA, IP and ERF searched houses, the Soldiers of Mortar Plt established an outer cordon with their Stryker vehicles to choke off the selected neighborhoods from the main roads. They only dismounted their vehicles if their Iraqi counterparts requested.

“This was all their idea, their plan,” said Sgt. 1st Class Jeremy Hare, the mortar plt sgt. “Our role is to mainly advise and assist, and provide a quick reaction force in case they need us.”
So far, the ISF haven't requested for the Crazyhorse Troop Soldiers to dismount, and physically help them search the buildings of the city.  "It's become routine for Iraqis to take the lead, as U.S. forces throughout the country transition into advise and assist roles," said Staff Sgt. Kevin Perkins, a squad leader for Mortar Plt.

The Soldiers of 1/14th Cav. will soon be leaving Iraq with the rest of 3rd SBCT, 2nd ID, to be replaced by elements of 2nd Stryker BCT, 25th ID, an advise and assist bde. “What we're doing here is preparing them for their next partners,” said 2nd Lt. Jan Dudzinski, the mortar plt leader. “They'll be working with them once a week as opposed to every day like we have.”

As the Soldiers of Crazyhorse Troop wind down their deployment with this QRF role in Op Jalula Peacemaker, they can look back at their deployment and feel pleased with the progress they've observed from their ISF partners.

While ISF are clearing houses in Jalula, 2nd Lt. Jan Dudzinski and Staff Sgt. Kevin Perkins, both of Mortar Plt, converse in a vehicle while on standby to help their Iraqi partners. 

Sgt. Daniel Boley, a team leader for Mortar Plt, provides security while his platoon leader meets with ISF leaders in Jalula. The meeting was to discuss what ISF found while searching the area.    

Staff Sgt Kevin Perkins, a squad leader for mortar plt, observes the area from a Stryker vehicle. 

-30-

USF-I

ISF arrest suspected AQI criminal associates in northern Iraq

BAGHDAD – ISF and U.S. advisors searched several buildings for a suspected AQI member allegedly involved in the movement of foreign fighters into Iraq.  Info and evidence gathered at the scene led Iraqi forces to identify and arrest 6 suspected AQI criminal assocs.,  approx 128km SW of Mosul, June 28. 

-30-

USF-I

ISF arrest suspected AQI member, and alleged criminal assocs

BAGHDAD - ISF and U.S. advisors searched several buildings for a suspected AQI member allegedly involved in building IEDs.  A large amount of evidence believed to be related to the manufacture, emplacement and employment of IEDs, targeting SECFOR and civilians, was collected at the scene of the arrest.

Additional info and evidence gathered at the scene led Iraqi forces to identify and arrest the warranted individual and 5 suspected AQI criminal assocs., during a joint security op, June 29, in Bayji, approx 103 kms SW of Kirkuk.

-30-

Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/6-29

Dear Interested Reader,

1-101 FA opens new school in Kabul.  Ft. Bragg based 257th Dental Co. establishes clinic.  Taliban facilitator killed in Kandahar.  Op Update, June 28.  Combined forces strike Talaiban stronghold in Kunar prov.  Heavy-lift helo hauls big mission.

Iraq:  Signal Corps' 150th birthday celebrated at JBB.  Soldiers focus on IED hunt.  Check Point 7 closed in Mosul.  Suspected IED distributor/criminal assocs. arrested in Baghdad.

Joanna

_____________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

DVIDS

1-101 FA Open School Alongside Village Elders

Story by 2nd Lt. Jordan Breau

Lt. Col. James Hally, left, helps Dep. Minister of Education Mohammad Pattman cut the ribbon to officially open the Ali Khail School, June 16.  Hally, cmdr, 1-101 FA, Mass. Army NG, facilitated the construction of the school. (Photos by Sgt. Michael Hardy)   

KABUL - Lt. Col. Hally, and Mohammad Pattman stood alongside the village elders of Ali Khail, June 16, to cut the ceremonial ribbon officially opening the school for students of the Deh Sabz region. 

“We're very grateful and thankful for the U.S. for helping us build this school,” said Pattman. “This school wouldn’t have happened without the assistance of the U.S. Army. The people of the U.S.A. gave us this school, and it’s our duty for us to take advantage of this gift,” said Pattman to the crowd of villagers.

The people of Ali Khail have been waiting on a hard structured school since 1993, when the school was initially going to be built. The school's construction was halted because of the strong Taliban influence in the village. The Taliban has since loosened its grip on the area, allowing the school to be built without interruption.

“This school will improve the lives of the children in this village, and begin to change the future generations of this country,” said Pattman.  Prior to the construction of the school, the Afghan children were receiving their education inside tents without desks and chairs.  Now that the temperature is heating up in Afghanistan, the school could not have come at a better time. 

“Education is the answer to peace and prosperity for Afghanistan,” said Hally. “Every school or education facility that we can assist in constructing will have an immediate and enduring impact on the future of Afghanistan.”

Grades K-12 will be in session until Nov.; then the students will break until March.  The school is broken into 3 gender segregated shifts; two of the shifts are for male students, and one shift is for female students.

“Education is the foundation in building Afghanistan,” said Pattman. “Most of this country’s people are uneducated and ignorant.  It's schools that will improve the lives and open the minds of the Afghan people.”

Lt. Col. Hally shakes hands with a village elder at the opening of the Ali Khail school, north of Kabul. 

-30-

DVIDS

Ft. Bragg Based Dental Co. Establishes Clinic 

Story by Capt. Thomas Cieslak

Capt. Samuel Pyo, a Dentist deployed with the 257th Dental Co., examines a Soldier, June 26.   

BAGRAM AIRFIELD - A Dental Co. is helping Service members by improving their dental health and hygiene, and helping to maintain the mission readiness of an entire TF.  Soldiers of the 257th are operating a dental clinic. Their main customers are the Soldiers, Sailors and Airmen of TF Protector. 

“Our main mission here is to get patients out of pain,” said dental asst Spc. Lamarus Bonier, who helps Capt. Samuel Pyo, one of the clinic’s dentists, with the daily task of helping Service members with dental problems. 

The clinic, located on the Eastern perimeter of Bagram Airfield, is housed in a tent on ground which used to be a Soviet-era minefield.  During Afghanistan’s windy days, the tent will pulsate and ceiling lights will bobble as Pyo works inside a patient’s mouth.  Service members can receive routine dental care such as cleanings and fillings, while those requiring a higher level of care are referred to a hospital across the base. 

Extra care was given to the clinic’s design to ensure equipment would remain safe and functional despite Afghanistan’s bad weather.  Keeping equipment clean, and the limited amount of resources available to units deployed to such austere conditions, are 2 of the biggest obstacles Soldiers from the 257th work with each day.

Particle-board wall lockers function both as storage, and as a makeshift wall to create a waiting area and provide patients some privacy.  There is one dental chair in the clinic, which usually sees about 9 patients a day.  Sinks, trays and sterilizing equipment are set up along the walls to minimize the amount of tubes and cords laying along the floor. 

A Service member’s dental pain can take them out of the fight or distract them from their duties.  A dental clinic like the one the Soldiers of the 257th operate amidst the dust and wind of Afghanistan, makes a world of difference for the Service members.

-30-

ISAF Joint Command

Afghan-ISAF Kills Taliban Facilitator in Kandahar

KABUL, Afghanistan - An Afghan-ISAF killed a Taliban cmdr and several armed individuals in Kandahar, June 27. The Taliban cmdr, Shyster Uhstad Khan, took over the duties of senior Taliban facilitator after his predecessor was arrested by Afghan and CF earlier this year.  He was involved in the distribution and purchase of IEDs. 

The Afghan-led SECFOR went to a compound outside Kandahar City to search the area, and was immediately engaged by hostile fire.  Afghan and CF returned fire in self defence, and killed several armed individuals, including Khan.

After securing the compound, the combined force detained one suspect. This individual is believed to have direct contact with Kabul area senior Taliban, and facilitates delivery of IED components to Kabul.

-30-

ISAF Joint Command

Operational Update, June 28

KHOST PROVINCE - An Afghan-ISAF killed several insurgents, including a Haqqani network IED cell leader, with a precision airstrike, while they were placing an IED, on a main route in Matun District, June 27.

Following the airstrike, an Afghan and int'l ground force went to the site north of Badi Kheyl to inspect the area. The SECFOR found multiple IEDs and weapons at the site, as well as the IED cell leader, Satar, and several members of his cell, killed by the precision strike.  Satar and his cell were linked to multiple IED attacks against Afghan and int'l forces.

Afghan and CF continue to make progress in their on-going efforts to rid the prov. of the Haqqani network. They captured another Haqqani IED facilitator in the prov., June 27, in an area that has seen 13 IEDs detonated or found this year.

LOGAR PROVINCE - June 27, an Afghan/ ISAF captured a Taliban facilitator who actively participated in IED attacks throughout Baraki Barak District. The facilitator is also linked to mortar attacks against FOB Shank, located approx 10 kms from where he was captured.

The SECFOR went to a series of compounds near Akhvond Kheyl in Pul-e 'Alam district to search the area.  Afghan forces used a loudspeaker to call for all individuals to come outside, and then cleared the compounds, detaining the facilitator.

GHAZNI PROVINCE - ANSF along with ISAF partners rescued 2 ANP officers June 27, who had been held hostage for almost a week.  As the combined force approached the compound where the officers were being held, several insurgents were observed fleeing from the compound. 

KANDAHAR PROVINCE - ANSF patrols discovered numerous weapons caches.  A large cache was found June 27, during a search of a compound in Kandahar. The cache contained 13 IEDs, 4 kilograms of explosive material, 5 artillery rounds, and more than 1,700 rounds of small-arms ammo.

In a separate op, June 25, in the Panjwa'i District, another ANSF-led combined force discovered 227 kilograms of hashish, during the search of a compound.

URUZGAN PROVINCE - June 26, an ANSF-led combined force conducted a compound search in Khas Uruzgan district.  A weapons cache, which included 190 RPG boosters; 81 RPG rounds; 30 cases of machine gun ammo; 20 hand grenade fuses; 15 hand grenades; 14 82mm recoilless rifle rounds; a machine gun with 10 replacement barrels, and a flare gun was seized by the combined force.

-30-

Blackanthem Military News

Afghan and ISAF units strike Taliban stronghold

By ISAF Joint Command-A

KUNAR PROVINCE  - A combined force of more than 600 Afghan and ISAF forces are conducting ops against al-Qaeda and Taliban insurgents, June 27.  At present, a number of insurgents have been killed in the attack. 

"We will continue to take the fight to the enemy alongside our Afghan partners," said Maj. Gen. John Campbell, comm. gen. of RC-East. The fighting is ongoing.

-30-

DVIDS

Farah Provincial Governor Talks Security With Tribal Elders 

Photo by Sgt. Dorian Gardner

BAKWA - Farah Provincial Gov. Amin stands in front of a group of local elders and men during a shura, June 22.  A small contingent of RCT 2 personnel, including Col. Paul Kennedy, RCT-2 comm. officer, and Lt. Col. Beriddze, the senior national rep and Georgian Contingent Cmdr. of Afghanistan, took a day's trip to the District of Bakwa, where they met with the provincial and district govs. "The intent was to start the relationship between the elders and the Georgians," said Maj. Thomas Espinosa, RCT-2 civil affairs det. officer-in-charge.  According to Espinosa, they wanted to let the elders know that building on security in this region is still a priority, as well as bringing good governance to the area.  During the shura, the provincial gov. discussed the importance of accepting the responsibilities of providing security, and not leaving it solely on the govt.  Shortly after the shura, Georgians and Marines were invited to the district gov's quarters for food and more discussion. The day ended with new partnerships, and reinforced efforts on shaping Afghanistan's future for a better tomorrow.   

-30-

DVIDS

Heavy-lift Helo Hauls Big Mission 

(Photos by Gunnery Sgt. Steven Williams)

A CH-53E Super Stallion flies overhead carrying an AW-101 Merlin from an FOB, June 26. This early-morning op to recover the Merlin is a prime example of the joint ops now taking place between the U.S. and the UK in the region. The Super Stallion is with Marine Heavy Helicopter Sqdrn 466, "Bigfoot," which is a Marine Corps helicopter sqdrn under 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd).  The Merlin belongs to the U.K.'s Joint Helicopter Force, which is also currently operating under 3rd MAW (FWD) after the Joint Aviation Group joined the Wing, June 1.  The op was also a testament to the work that these "heavy haulers" have been performing in support of the ANSF and NATO forces, in southern Afghanistan, as they tote heavy cargo and troops across the area, under heavy enemy fire, on a daily basis.   

-30-

IRAQI STORIES:

Blackannthem Military News

3rd Sust. Bde. celebrates Signal Corps' 150th birthday

By Sgt. 1st Class Rhonda Lawson

Master Sgt. Wade Duplechin, a 47-year-old communication chief with the 256th IBCT, and Pfc. Danyul Davis, a 20-year-old automation tech with the 13th CSSB, 3rd Sust. Bde., 13th ESC,  cut the cake in celebration of the  Army Signal Corps' 150th birthday, June 21 during a celebration at JBB.  Duplechin and Davis are the oldest and youngest signaleers in the bde. 

JOINT BASE BALAD - "As senior signaleers, we're responsible for pushing the heritage and lineage of the Signal Corps to the younger signaleers," said Master Sgt. Monroe Baskins, communication NCO-in-charge with 3rd Sust. Bde.

The history of the corps dates back to June 21, 1860, when Congress authorized the addition of a signal officer to the Army staff. That officer was Maj. Albert Myer.  He held his position until 1880, when he died, a brig. gen.  Later, Fort Whipple, Va., the location of the Signal school, was renamed Fort Myer in his honor.

Baskins said the importance of this history shouldn't be lost on the younger signal Soldiers.
"When I went through Basic and Advanced NCO Courses, it was a really big thing," he said. "Now, it's not as big. Some Soldiers don't even know who Brig. Gen. Myer was.  We want to make sure that heritage isn't lost in another 150 years, when they celebrate the 300th birthday of the Signal Corps."

Later that evening, Col. Shawn Morrissey, cmdr of 3rd Sust. Bde., and Sgt. Maj. Clifton Johnson, bde command sgt. maj., joined Signaleers from across the brigade in wishing the corps a happy birthday. During the celebration, Morrissey complimented the signal Soldiers on their professionalism. "You all do a fabulous job.  Without the Signal Corps, we couldn't do our mission."

Johnson followed up by presenting a bde coin to Spc. Jason Piggee, a support systems specialist with the joint network node plt of 3rd Sust. Bde., and Pfc. Andrew Allen, a satellite communications specialist, also with the joint network node plt, for their contributions to the bde communications shop.

"It was a privilege to see both of my Soldiers get recognized for their outstanding achievements," said Staff Sgt. Audrey Richardson, plt sgt. "I love my job, and I'm proud to be celebrating the Signal Corps' birthday in a combat zone."

"This is my first time doing a Signal Corps birthday celebration," said Duplechin, who's been in the Louisiana NG since 1980.  "I didn't expect something like this, but it was nice.  It's very good to remind us where we came from, and where we're going."

-30-

USF-I

US, Iraqi Soldiers focus on IED hunt

Written by Capt. Kurt Zortman

IA 2nd Lt. Hammed, a plt leader, conducts dismounted rehearsals with Co A, 1st BSTB, 1st Advise and Assist Bde, 82nd AD, prior to a mission from Camp Fallujah, June 4, 2010. The paratroopers have conducted training and bilateral route clearance ops with the IA over the past 4 months. 

CAMP RAMADI – The Soldiers of Co. A have participated in 30 training events and 23 bilateral route-clearance ops with the IA. The training has focused on route-clearance fundamentals, to increase the capability for ISF to clear the roads of IEDs.

Acting as the primary instructor for most of the classes involving robotics and hand-emplaced explosives, Sgt. Aaron Trowbridge has established and continues to maintain the training lanes that the IA uses to fine-tune their skills in finding IEDs. 

“Some of the IA students are actively conducting route-clearance ops with their unit at Camp Fallujah,” said Trowbridge. “This experience makes them great assets during the training, to reinforce the lessons being taught and provide real-world applications to their peers.”

The bilateral ops, which have become a weekly event, are a useful tool to validate the training objectives taught at Camp Fallujah during real world missions, he said.  These bilateral ops enable the paratroopers to advise the Iraqis and ensure that they're sustaining lessons taught both at their schoolhouse and by the U.S. forces.

The Iraqi Soldiers’ institutional knowledge on route-clearance fundamentals varies, but their eagerness to develop and cultivate this knowledge base is strong, according to 1st Lt. Nathaniel Curley, a plt leader, whose mission is training engrs in 1st IA Div.  Curley’s route-clearance plt has conducted 157 patrols, clearing 16,000 kms throughout Anbar prov.

-30-

DVIDS

US, ISF Close Combined Checkpoint in Northern Iraq

Check Point Seven, located near Abbasiyah, north of Mosul, recently closed after both U.S. and ISF determined that the closure of the check point was possible, because of the success of the ISF in the area, June 20.  

MOSUL – As U.S. forces in Iraq transition to stability ops, the closure of various FOBs, and the turn-over of JSSs are an on-going process.

"Closing the checkpoint was a difficult process," said 1st. Lt. James Carter, Co B, 1st Bn, 36th Inf Regt, 1st BCT, 1st AR Div. “With the logistics of dismantling the checkpoint, maintaining security of the area is a difficult task.  However, through the efforts of both U.S. and Iraqi forces continuing to work together, made the process possible, even while the checkpoint was being removed,” said 1st. Lt. Carter. 

“Even though the move itself was a lot of work, I’m happy to see the checkpoint come down, because it’s an example of the great efforts of the ISF to provide a secure and stable Iraq for its citizens,” said 1st Lt. Husani Flournoy.

Even with the dismantling of Checkpoint 7 complete, Soldiers of the1-36th Inf. will continue to look back fondly at time spent at the checkpoint.  “I really enjoyed working with the Iraqi forces. We all loved to work together, and help each other out when we needed it,” said Spc. John Russell, 1-36th Inf, of his time at Checkpoint 7. 

Staff Sgt. David Ozsky agreed that the time spent at the checkpoint was one he’ll always remember. “The cooperation with the ISF was great.  We had a great team out there, and the experience was something I’ll never forget.  Even though the checkpoint had to be dismantled, I’m glad we were the ones to do it,” said Staff Sgt. Ozsky. “We built the checkpoint, so it was great we were the ones able to close it.  We can say that the mission was ours from start to finish.”

-30-

USF-I

Alleged IED distributor, a suspected criminal associate arrested

BAGHDAD - ISF and U.S. advisors searched 2 buildings for a suspected AQI member, who is believed to be involved in the construction and distribution of IEDs, and attacks against Iraqi civilians, ISF and USF-I personnel, 11km west of Baghdad, June 27.  Info and evidence gathered at the scene led Iraqi forces to identify and arrest the warranted individual, and a suspected AQI criminal assoc.

-30-

USF-I

ISF arrest four suspected AQI criminal associates west of Baghdad

BAGHDAD - ISF arrested 4 suspected AQI criminal assocs., during a joint security op approx 19kms west of Baghdad, June 28.  They're allegedly involved in the production of IEDs.

-30-

Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/6-28

Dear Interested Reader,

97th MP Bn walks the streets of Kandahar City.  Changing the old cannery warehouse on Camp Nathan Smith.  Paspajak patrol with Bulldog Troop.  Soldiers conduct route clearance mission.  Ops Update, June 26.

Iraq:  Deployment reunites brothers after 17 years apart.  Army's top enlisted Soldier visits USD-C.  Kids play American games at JBB.  Medics graduate EMT course at FOB Warrior.

Joanna

__________________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

DVIDS

The Streets of Kandahar City 

(Photos by Spc. Casey Collier)

KANDAHAR CITY - Command Sgt. Maj. Michael Hall patrols the streets of Kandahar City, June 21, with HHD, 97th MP Bn.   

Command Sgt. Maj. Hall eats his lunch of naan (bread), as he tours Kandahar City.

Command Sgt. Maj. Hall patrols with others from the 97th.

Command Sgt. Maj. Hall tours the streets of Kandahar City, with his bn.

Command Sgt. Maj. Hall meets with ANP Officers.

Corporal David Pisano, 293rd MP Co, 97th MP Bn., takes a break from his security detail at a traffic checkpoint, to share a word with Command Sgt. Maj. Hall, who was taking time to patrol Kandahar City.

Command Sgt. Maj. Hall, meets with Soldiers from the 293rd MP Co, at Police Sub-station 8 in Kandahar City    

-30-

DVIDS

Changing the Old Cannery Warehouse

Story by Spc. Casey Collier

Pictures of Soviet tanks, drawn by inmates on the cannery wall at Camp Nathan Smith, Kandahar City, when it was a Taliban prison, point to a Navy Seabee's coat and hardhat rack. The cannery is being turned into a Joint Ops and Tactical Ops Center, June 25.   

CAMP NATHAN SMITH, Kandahar City — When one walks into the old cannery warehouse on the western side of the Camp Nathan Smith compound, they’ll notice a dark expanse dimly lit through broken windows, and surrounded by cracked, brick columns that reach from the concrete floor to the 20'-high ceiling.

After an initial inspection of the cannery, something more subtle begins to come into view - graffiti, on the dusty, white walls, scrawled there in Arabic script by former prisoners that were chained along the very same walls, when the cannery was used by the Taliban as a prison.

The cannery was erected in the early 1970’s, funded by Czech investors, and for nearly 20 years was fully operational, employing more than 1,200 citizens of Kandahar City at its peak.

When the Mujahedeen took over in 1992, they closed the cannery and turned it into a prison.  It remained a prison for 9 years until the Taliban fled in 2001.  Then, in 2005, the Canadian govt took over the property to build Camp Nathan Smith.

Today, the old cannery is changing again. The sound of pounding hammers and the buzzing of saws echo throughout.  It's the sound of another incarnation, this time as part of an expansion effort to accommodate the influx of future occupants here at CNS. 

The bn in charge of transforming the cannery into a Joint Ops and Tactical Ops Center is a Navy Seabee Bn. “The Seabees at Camp Nathan Smith have exceeded my highest expectations, and have continued to impress me daily,” said Officer-in-Charge, LT JG Craig Lawson, Naval Mobile Construction Bn (NMCB)133.  “Our small unit leaders have taken ownership of this expansion project, and are looking to exceed the required quality of construction, while finishing ahead of schedule.”

NMCB 133 hails from Gulfport, Miss.  Engineering Aid 2nd Class Zachary Cunningham, is in charge of quality control at the cannery site. “As soon as we get to a site, we're expected to make significant progress, and it’s normally with short timelines,” said Cunningham. “Being able to build here, we feel like we’re now able to contribute to the mission here.”

As the cannery takes on its newest role, and goes through its most dramatic physical transformation since its original construction, it continues to stand as a symbol of change and progress in Kandahar City. The Seabees are glad to be a part of that change.

“I’m just really proud to be here,” said Cunningham, “I’m really proud to see all these Americans here.  We're working to bring peace to this country.  We're working to bring freedom to a country that doesn’t have that right now. It’s a real good feeling.”

This week the graffiti on the cannery walls will disappear behind fresh paint, and with its disappearance will go the remnants of such a time when the cannery housed despair and frailty.

Members of the NMCB 133 work on the Tactical Ops Center. 

-30-

Joint Combat Camera Afghanistan 

Paspajak Patrol with Bulldog Troop

(Photos by Sgt. Russell Gilchrest)

COP CHARKH - Army Pfc. Michael Duran catches his breath just after arriving back at his outpost, after a long dismounted movement in Charkh District, Logar prov., June 20.  Duran is assigned to 1st Plt, Bulldog Troop, 1st Sqdrn, 91st Cav Regt, 173rd Abn BCT.   

Spc. Newton Carlicci travels dismounted while on his way back to his outpost from the village of Paspajak.  Carlicci and his plt went to this village in order to check on conditions, by communicating with the locals.   

-30-

Joint Combat Camera Afghanistan

Soldiers Conduct Route Clearance Mission

(Photos by Sgt. Derec Pierson)

FOB ABN - Army Staff Sgt. Michael Huff, Squad Leader, Route Clearance Patrol 45 (Bastards), 57th Sappers (ABN) Rough Terrain, 27th Engineering Bn, checks the turret, after his soldier loads the 50cal on the MRAP Carrier before rolling on the clearance patrol to COP Nerkh, FOB ABN, Wardak prov., June 9.   

1st Lt. Chris Haviley, the PlT Leader, conducts the mission brief about the route the patrol is going to take to COPt Nerkh.

Army soldiers roll through a village on their way to the COP Nerkh to make sure the route is clear.   

Soldiers pull into the COP Nerkh after they made sure the route is clear.    

-30-

ISAF Joint Command 

Operational Update, June 26

Kevin Bell, ISAF Joint Command PAO

LOGAR PROVINCE - An Afghan-ISAF force killed the senior Taliban cmdr., June 25.  Intel sources tracked Ghulam Sakhi to a compound near the village of Qal-eh Saber, Pul-e 'Alam district, where the combined force went to apprehend him.

Afghan forces used a loudspeaker and called for women and children to exit the building.  As they were exiting, Sakhi came out with the group disguised in women's attire, and pulled out a pistol, a grenade and shot at the SECFOR.  When Afghan and CF shot him he dropped the grenade, and it detonated, wounding a woman and two children. The assault force immediately evacuated the wounded for medical care.

Sakhi, who is known by several aliases, was involved in IED attacks, ambushes and indirect fire attacks throughout the prov.  He also kidnapped and killed a National Directorate of Security chief in Logar prov.

After securing the compound the assault force detained several suspected insurgents for questioning. Afghan and CF realize women and children present during these offensive ops are often innocent bystanders to the insurgent activities taking place inside their homes. The SECFOR goes to great lengths to respect Afghan customs and protect them throughout their searches.

ZABUL - An Afghan-ISAF killed several insurgents with a precision airstrike June 25, in continuing ops aimed at dismantling IED cells operating in the Mizan and Tarnak Wa Jaldak districts.  The cells are directly responsible for multiple IED attacks along Highway 1, also known as ring road, resulting in the death or injury of Afghan civilians, Afghan and int'l forces.

The combined SECFOR verified insurgent activity, and after careful planning in order to avoid civilian casualties and mitigate collateral damage, called in the airstrike on the insurgents, in the remote area outside the village of Mianehshakh in Tarnak Wa Jaldak district.

After the air strike the combined SECFOR went to the area and found IED materials, including multiple blasting caps and an IED initiator, multiple automatic weapons, RPGs and launchers. 

According to a recently released U.N. report, there was a 94% increase in IED attacks in the first 4 months of 2010 compared to the same period in 2009.

-30-

IRAQI STORIES:

DVIDS

Deployment Reunites Brothers

Story by Pvt. Zach Zuber

Spc. Joshua Wagner, a cook from Bravo Co, 296th BSB, 3rd Stryker BCT, 2nd ID, renders a salute to his brother, 2nd Lt. Justin Wagner, an XO for Echo Co, 1st Attack Recon Bn, 1st Aviation Regt, CAB, 1st ID. The two were reunited at COB Taji, June 18, after 17 years apart.   

DIYALA — “The best memory I had of my brother was going to the airport when he left to live with his dad when I was 4,” said Joshua.  With his own father not around, Joshua was placed in a foster home for a year until he was able to return to his mother. He spent the years afterward in and out of foster homes, and learned to adapt to the new environments in which he was placed.

While he moved, his younger brother and sister were separated and Joshua did his best to stay in contact and support them through their difficulties. This is a quality he may have gotten from his older brother, who demanded they stay together until the 2 were separated.

“When I got done with school, I tried the whole college thing but couldn’t really stay focused, so I decided to join the Army, because I always liked to cook and figured I could get more experience there,” said Joshua.

Meanwhile life for his brother, Justin was in many ways the exact opposite. Living with his father in Penn. provided a more regimented childhood filled with chores, curfews, and an emphasis on school work.

“With my dad, there were a lot more rules on what I could do, which kept me from getting in trouble like we did when we were together,” said Justin. “It was a great childhood, but I still always missed the old lifestyle with him [Joshua].”

As he got older, Justin wanted to help kids growing up in situations similar to what he and his brother faced.  When he started college, his goal was to obtain a teaching degree, but later his focus switched to criminal justice. After he received his degree, he first worked in social services, but realized it wasn't what he truly wanted to do, and started considering the military.

By this time the younger Wagner brother was a step ahead, working through the initial entry phase of his military career.  Shortly after Joshua graduated from Advanced Individual Training, he learned that his little sister had reconnected with their older brother through MySpace.

“When my sister and then my mom started talking to him about a year ago, I got his info because I just wanted to know how he was doing,” said Joshua. “I found out that he was about to graduate from college, and he wanted to know what my time in the Army was like.”

Among many topics, the 2 discussed Spc. Wagner’s career in the Army, and whether or not it would be a good choice for his older brother. “At first I recommended he look into the AF, but I told him that with a college degree, being an officer in the Army would be great,” said Spc. Wagner. “After a couple months he told me that he signed up, which made me really proud.”

“When I found out he was coming here, I immediately went to my leaders to see if we would be able to meet,” said Spc. Joshua. “I never thought that I would be in Iraq when that happened, but my command said they would definitely try to make it happen.”

Justin received a warm reception to the idea as well. “My superiors basically told me that they would do anything I needed to make sure that he could come visit me, or I could go see him,” said Justin. 

With the approval they needed, the brothers simply had to wait for an opportunity to reunite.  After working with his command, Joshua was able to pack his bags and take a flight to his brother’s duty station at COB Taji.

All those years separated didn't change the fact that these 2 share an obvious bond.  Both have reserved personalities, but were beaming with excitement to see each other. Quickly the stories started spilling from each brother, conversations that were 17 years in the making. Those close to Justin continually made comments about how his younger brother acted just like him. Joshua had the same outgoing personality his older brother remembers from their childhood.

It didn’t take much to get a smile from the siblings as they spent 2 days catching up on family, friends and work. Though it was only a short reunion, they were able to make plans for their next visit and agree to take a family vacation when they both return to the U.S..

Now that the 2 have been formally reunited, this is just the first of their plans to stick together through the years to come.  Soon Joshua will have a lot more to remember than just the day his brother moved away.

-30-

DVIDS

Army’s Top Enlisted Soldier Visits USD-C

Story by Spc. Daniel Schneider

Sgt. Maj. of the Army Kenneth Preston answers questions from USD Soldiers at Camp Liberty, June 24.    

BAGHDAD – Senior leadership and some junior enlisted Soldiers met with the highest-ranking enlisted member of the Army to ask questions of Preston during multiple open forums, and hear his take on Army issues affecting them.

During his open forums with the junior enlisted Soldiers, Preston pointed out where the Army is headed in the near future, emphasizing the new enlisted promotion policy in the works. “We want to make it so that Soldiers aren’t set back because they’re on a deployment,” Preston said. “A lot of times, a Soldier, when deployed, doesn’t have access to all the paperwork to successfully get promoted.  Oftentimes, when they're out on distant FOBs, they don’t have access to attend a promotion board – either being too far away from where the board is held, or mission requirements deterring them from being able to make it.”

Command Sgt. Maj. Lawrence Wilson, senior enlisted leader of USF – Iraq, offered advice to the NCOs in attendance.  “We succeed as a team,” said Wilson. “If your junior Soldiers succeed, that means you succeed as an NCO.  Never be afraid to grow future leaders, because when they get promoted, you get promoted.”

Command Sgt. Maj. William Johnson, USD – Center senior enlisted leader, pointed out that Soldiers seeking promotion should concentrate on aiming for excellence in the performance of their jobs.

Preston also took questions from the Soldiers.  One Soldier asked Preston what he likes and dislikes about today’s Army. “Back in the old Army, you’d have people standing before a judge who would tell them, ‘You can go to jail or join the Army.’  Now, we have a purely volunteer force which I like a whole lot,” Preston said. “You all should be very proud of who you are. You're the cream of our society.  Out of all people who try to join the Army, only 30% are even qualified to wear the uniform.  I'm very proud of all of you,” Preston concluded.

The sergeant major of the Army travels all around the world, visiting Soldiers roughly 270 days out of the year, said Master Sgt. Jason Shepherd, the public affairs advisor to Preston.  He tries to travel to either Afghanistan or Iraq quarterly, alternating between the 2, and makes it a point to visit with all Soldiers regardless of rank.

At the end of the open forum meetings, Preston presented approx 30 junior enlisted Soldiers from across USD-C with coins.  Before departing, he reiterated just how proud he was of every Soldier for answering the call to serve their country.

Sgt. John Batemon, assigned to 45th Military Intel Co, 4th Stryker BCT, 2nd ID, asks a question. 

Sgt. Maj. of the Army Preston speaks to Soldiers from USD – Center during a lunch meeting at Camp Liberty’s Iron Oasis dining facility. 

-30-

DVIDS

Iraqi Kids Play American Games at Joint Base Balad

Story by Sgt. Chad Menegay

AF Senior Airman Claribel Najera-Torres, with the 332nd Expeditionary Civil Engr Sqdrn (ECES) helps an Iraqi girl blow bubbles, June 19, during Kids Day at JBB. 

JOINT BASE BALAD - Service members threw an American-style party with swimming, movies, video games, board games, burgers, potato chips and ice cream, for 77 Iraqi children at Morale, Welfare and Recreation-East.

Defense Dept personnel, who work with locals in the villages that surround JBB, to build communities and help the sick and injured, have gained enough trust with parents to gather children from Albu Hassan, Albu Abbas and Al Bakir for the “Kids Day.”

Capt. Tara Opielowski, with the 732nd coordinated the event and said that she filled her quota of 1 volunteer for each child within 2 minutes of her request.  She still had to turn away about 400 people.

Opielowski said she kept the itinerary very generic.  “I wanted them to come here and interact with service members,” she said. “We told the volunteers to stay with their respective child, but to let them do what they want and have fun.”

Most of the children started their day outside, playing in an above-ground pool, and kicking around a soccer ball.  Boys wrestled around, and girls drew with chalk on the sidewalk.  Service members demonstrated how to hula hoop and skip rope.  Inside kids listened to music, took pictures, blew bubbles, played billiards, cards, table tennis and video games. 

“I love seeing them getting so excited and happy to get into the base,” said Spc. Nazha Likrik, a translator with the 332nd Expeditionary Medical Group and an Essouira, Morocco, native.

DoD personnel said since Kids Day began in 2008 at JBB, the concept has spread to other bases in Iraq and Afghanistan.  A previous event at JBB drew 219 kids.

“Some children have been here 6 or 7 times already,” Likrik said. “They already know the place and what to do. They already know the processing at the gate.”

“The kids are the future,” Opielowski said. “This is when it’s important to make the impact on them, and show we’re here to help not hurt.  I think it’s good for the parents to see that we’re good people, and we want to do good things.”   

Capt. Tara Opielowski, with the 732nd reads to an Iraqi girl. 

-30-

DVIDS

Iraqi Medics Graduate EMT Course

Story and photo by Pfc. Jessica Luhrs

Capt. Jon Stubblefield, the primary instructor for the Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) course presents a graduate with his medical brassard at the graduation ceremony on FOB Warrior, June 21.   

KIRKUK - “Today marks a great day for the ISF and Medical Community of the prov. of Kirkuk,” said 1st Lt. Jonathan Metcalf. “Today, 9 IP, one IA soldier, and 9 ambulance aides will be certified as medics, trained to the full standard of an EMT.”

“Over the past 5 weeks, these individuals have dedicated hundreds of hours in the classroom and practicing hands-on skills, that will not only enable them to save lives in their daily jobs, but enhance the organic medical capability of their various orgs,” said Metcalf.

The ceremony was hosted by their ‘Battle Boar’ partners in 1st Bn, 30th Inf, 2nd BCT, 3rd ID out of Fort Stewart, Ga., and attended by TF Marne Comm. Gen., Maj. Gen. Tony Cucolo; the dir. General of Health for Kirkuk province, Dr. Siddik Omar Rasool; TF Marne and Div. Surgeon, Col. Edward Michaud;  along with other friends of the Battle Boar Bn.

Before the ceremony began Maj. Gen. Cucolo took a moment to speak to the graduates to personally.  “You're the future of Iraq and it's a very noble thing to learn to be a medic,” he said to the group. “I salute you for your bravery, because you're the ones who save lives.”

Soon after this, the ceremony began with Michaud speaking of the high level of training the graduates received.  "Now that each of the individuals has this type of training, all of their leadership expects them to assist these Battle Boar instructors in teaching the people of Kirkuk," said Michaud.

The dir. gen. of Health for Kirkuk prov., Dr. Rasool, presents a medic with a certificate of completion during the graduation ceremony at the Mtn Warrior Gym.

TF Marne Comm. Gen., Maj. Gen. Tony Cucolo, speaks to the graduates. 

-30-

Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/6-27

Dear Interested Reader,

PRT, ADT working together to reach out to Ghazni schools.  Afghan soldier returns to teach at academy.  Small projects reap large gains in Helmand prov.  June 24 Update:  Combined forces conduct ops.

Iraq:  'Ready First' celebrates 235th Army birthday at FOB Warrior.  Fallen servicemembers honored by IP in Kirkuk.  Following dad's footsteps to Iraq.  'Blackjacks' face interesting challenges in flying Iraqi skies.  Alleged AQI member/assocs arrested.

Joanna

____________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

RC-East in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

PRT, ADT working together to reach out to Ghazni schools

Story and photos by AF 1st Lt. Katherine Roling

 

GHAZNI PROVINCE – The village elder of Qala Now village in Kwajah ‘Omari district tells Angela Szyszlo, the Ghazni PRT Polish specialist in education, that only women are allowed to visit the all-girls school. That day, the Ghazni PRT and the Texas ADT were visiting 3 different schools to discover what educational supplies the PRT could help provide to improve learning conditions, and the Texas ADT was providing security for the Polish and U.S. soldiers.

 

A young Afghan schoolgirl proudly recites info from her school book for the female members from the Ghazni PRT and the Texas ADT, June 23 at Naswan Soraye Shahed School. 

The village elder of Qala Now village opens the door only to 3 female members from the Ghazni PRT and the Texas ADT, along with an interpreter, into the all-girls school.  The U.S. and Polish male members stayed outside to respect the Afghan customs. 

 

Army Sgt. Mark Woodward, Texas ADT infantry member, right, helps Army Spc. Samuel Bryant, Texas ADT inf member, down from a wall, June 23 in Qala Now village during a patrol.

(Photo by Angela Szyszlo)

Army Staff Sgt. Juan Chapa, Texas ADT inf squad leader, walks with 3 other Afghan men, June 23 in Tormai Village, the largest village in Kwajah ‘Omari district. Katarzyna Wojtusik, the PRT social affairs specialist, spoke to the women in the class and asked for feedback. 

 

Army Spc. James Munroz, Texas ADT inf member, gives a thumbs-up to Afghan children from the M-ATV turret, as the Texas ADT leaves Qala Now village. The Texas ADT and the Ghazni PRT made new friends, as they spoke to both the adults and the children during their village assessment. 

(Photo by Angela Szyszlo)

Polish Warrant Officer Nawrocki, SECFOR plt cmdr with the Ghazni PRT, stands watch in a storm outside Roshan Jaladin School, June 23 at Deh Haj village.  (Photo by Angela Szyszlo)

-30-

RC-East in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Afghan soldier returns to teach at academy

Story and photo by Army Spc. Monica Smith

Army Maj. Brian Schaap, dep. cmdr of the 3rd CAB, TF Falcon, presents a certificate of appreciation to Mohammad Maqool, during the ANSF Crew Chief Academy graduation ceremony, June 24.  Maqool was a former student who returned to assist with instructing at the academy. 

BAGRAM AIRFIELD – The room filled with smiles and applause as 5 ANA Air Corps crew chiefs and 2 flight medics walked to the front of the room to receive their certificate for graduating the ANSF Crew Chief Academy. 

Clapping along with the group was Mohammad Maqool who previously graduated from the academy and returned to teach his fellow countrymen. “The idea came from my cmdr, and I wanted to help my country,” said Maqool. “In this class, I worked together with the other instructors, and explained all the things for the new guys.  I had a good time with them. I want to help develop my country, and I’m so happy that my country is improving and developing.”

The 7 graduates were part of the third class to go through the academy. The academy is one of a series of academies within the 3rd CAB, TF Falcon Combined Action Program, which includes the ANSF Air Assault Academy, Flight Medic Academy and Close Combat Attack Academy. This is the first time a former student has been certified to return and help teach the class.

Maqool is one of 2 prior students who's been to the U.S. to attend the Mi-17 course at Fort Bliss, Texas, said Army 1st Sgt. Christopher Wood, HHC, 3rd CAB, TF Falcon. “It’s important to have him instruct, because the ultimate goal is to turn this over to the air corps, and this helps them teach their own.”

Maqool assisted Army Sgt. Lance Grubb, a crew chief with Co A, TF Knighthawk, 3rd CAB, TF Falcon, as an instructor during the 18-day academy. “He knows more about the Mi-17s, can explain the limitations of the Mi-17s, and can also explain the things they do different from what we do,” said Grubb.  Having prior students come back to instruct puts the Afghans in the mindset of teaching the classes themselves, which is faster and more efficient.

"One of the goals of the TF Falcon Combined Action Program is to provide structure, training and mentorship to the ANSF. From there, the ANSF can increase their combat effectiveness and enable combined action and independent capabilities for the security and stability of the Afghan people," said Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 Chris Hinkle, TF Falcon Combined Action Program mgr. 

“Eventually we want them to take the lead in providing security and stability to the Afghan people,” said Hinkle. “We’re developing their instructors with the goal of transferring all the academies over to them.”

The 3rd CAB, TF Falcon dep. cmdr, Army Maj. Brian Schaap, also gave a speech during the ceremony.  He commented on the importance of the 2 units working together. “When we launched the crew chief academy, we knew that if we continued to work together, we would be a team that's ready to face any foe, defeat any enemy, and accomplish any mission,” said Schaap. “After once again having the incredible opportunity to witness firsthand our soldiers and our nations working together, we can be confident that we'll achieve that goal.”

-30-

DVIDS

Small Projects Reap Large Gains

(Marine Corps photos by Cpl. Ned Johnson)   

Cpl. Cameron Brainard, a civil affairs team member with 1st Bn, 2nd Marine Regt, RCT 2, walks beside a popular local road during a patrol, June 18. The road is in terrible condition,  and the Marines hope to have it repaired, so traffic can resume using it. 

PATROL BASE MINDEN, Helmand prov. – An old saying goes, "good things come in small packages," but in the isolated, rural villages of Afghanistan the saying is, "good things come in small projects."

Local Afghans with support from the Marines of Bravo Co, are planning small projects that will improve the quality of life for many local Afghans in the District of Musa Qal’eh.

One of the first projects to be done will be the construction of much needed repairs to the Yatimchay Road. The paved roads will aid in the safer travels of both local Afghan residents and Marines.  “It will help limit IEDs,” said Maj. Anthony Aragon, the civil affairs team leader. “This road will also allow them to travel to Musa Qal’eh easier, so they can sell their goods at the bazaar.”

Providing aid is the root cause of most civil affairs projects. “We want to help enhance their economy and show them their govt wants to as well,” said Aragon, 38.  "Other projects called micro-grants are a big boost to the economy," Aragon said. 

“These businessmen are excited to look at a better future,” Aragon said. “We just give them a little money and guidance, and their entrepreneurial spirit does the rest.”
While projects often make the locals favor the Marines, favor is not the goal. “We tie everything back to the Afghan govt,” Aragon said. “We want the people to know that there govt and local governor care about them.”

Even though projects are done solely to benefit the Afghans, there are tactical benefits as well. “Once the people realize we're here to help them, they want the projects to continue,” said Cpl. Cameron Brainard, a civil affairs team member. “The best way to do that is to keep the Taliban out.”

Afghan contractors and workers finished the few projects Marines have funded ahead of schedule; a good sign for things to come, Brainard concluded.  Small and large scale projects will continue throughout Helmand prov., and the Marines believe they are the key to success in Afghanistan. 

 A local villager talks to Maj. Anthony Aragon, the civil affairs team leader, during a patrol.  Marines left on a morning patrol to find locals, and discuss possible improvements for the area. 

Maj. Aragon talks to a local contractor about a canal project. The contractor said the project is going well and may finish early. 

-30-

Office of the Secretary of Defense Public Affairs

June 24 Update:  Combined Forces Conduct Ops 

KANDAHAR PROVINCE - Afghan and ISAF in southern Afghanistan conducted several ops in and around Kandahar over the last 2 days, military officials reported. 

A combined SECFOR destroyed a major roadside-bomb factory, killed the Panjwai District Taliban cmdr and several other insurgents, and captured a number of other insurgents after an air strike, June 23.

The deceased Taliban cmdr, Izzatullah, had planned and conducted attacks against CF, and was involved in the attack on Sarpoza prison outside of Kandahar City in June 2008, officials said.

After verifying insurgent activity, the combined force carefully planned the op to avoid civilian casualties and mitigate collateral damage, and then called in a precision air strike, which destroyed the bomb-manufacturing site.  Following the air strike, a combined SECFOR quickly overwhelmed insurgent forces defending the area.

Post-strike assessment revealed large quantities of bomb-making materials, as well as multiple automatic weapons, RPG launchers with RPG rounds, and communications equipment.  The Zharay District governor confirmed the Taliban deaths, and thanked the combined force for its efforts.

A separate Afghan-ISAF detained 2 suspected insurgents, June 23. The suspected insurgents were travelling on a motorcycle in the Maiwand district, when they were stopped for questioning and then detained. 

Another Afghan-ISAF detained a suspected insurgent, June 23.  The SECFOR detained the man while Afghan forces were clearing a series of compounds near Kandahar City. 

Since the beginning of May, officials said, SECFOR have conducted numerous successful offensive ops, capturing or killing numerous insurgents, including almost a dozen Taliban cmdrs.

"With our Afghan partners, the ISAF will continue to expand its ops in and around Kandahar in order to create the space needed, so that the GoA can provide improved governance and essential services to the people of Kandahar," said Marine Corps Col. William Maxwell, ISAF Joint Command's ops center dir.

KUNDUZ PROVINCE - An Afghan-ISAF used precision air strikes to kill a number of insurgents, June 23, while pursuing a Taliban sub-cmdr who played a crucial role in the ambush of a German convoy in Chahar Darah District last month. The strikes were conducted in an unpopulated area of Chahar Darah District, and CF ensured there were no civilian casualties, officials said.

PAKTIYA PROVINCE - An Afghan-ISAF detained 2 suspected insurgents, June 23, during continuing ops aimed at dismantling a suicide-bombing ring blamed for several attacks. The terrorist ring is known to use vehicle-borne bombs and suicide bombers to target Afghan soldiers, police and int'l forces, officials said. The combined SECFOR detained the individuals while searching a series of compounds in the Gardez District. The SECFOR also found a grenade and a weapon at the scene. 

ZABUL PROVINCE - An Afghan-ISAF detained 2 suspected insurgents June 23,  while pursuing a Taliban cell leader and facilitator suspected of procuring roadside bombs, weapons and ammo for the Taliban. The combined SECFOR detained the suspected insurgents, after Afghan forces cleared an area near a truck stop in the Shinkai District. 

-30-

IRAQI STORIES:

DVIDS

'Ready First' Celebrates 235th Army Birthday

Story by Pfc. Jessica Luhrs

Col. Larry Swift, center right, cmdr of 1st BCT, "Ready First" 1st AR Div out of Fort Bliss, Texas; Command Sgt. Maj. James Daniels, center left, command sgt maj for "Ready First"; Staff Sgt. David Henderson; and Pfc. Alexandra Rankin, both of 501st BSB "Ready First," cut the ceremonial cake in honor of the 235th Army Birthday at the Dining Facility on FOB Warrior, Kirkuk, June 14.   

KIRKUK -- Command Sgt. Maj. James Daniels, command sgt maj for ‘Ready First,’ who was also celebrating his birthday in the Army, spoke to his Soldiers about how they're a part of history.  “Today marks another glorious day in the history books.  For 235 years the American Soldier has paved the way so others can have freedom, prosperity and pursue happiness,” he said.

Pfc. Alexandra Rankin explained that her leadership has played a role in her decision to stay in the Army.  “They always push me to be my best, and because of that I want to make the Army a career,” she said.

Staff Sgt. David Henderson said that he came into the military looking for a better life for his family and he found it.

When the speakers were finished the crowd sang the ‘Iron Soldier Song’ and the ‘Army Song’ before the cutting of the ceremonial cake.

-30-

DVIDS

Fallen Servicemembers Honored by Iraqi Police

Story by Pfc. Jessica Luhrs

Lt. Col. Daniel Cormier, cmdr for 1st Bn, 30th Inf Regt, 'Battle Boars' 2nd BCT, 3rd ID, out of Fort Stewart, Ga, and Maj. Gen. Bakr, provincial police chief of the Kirkuk IP, look at the U.S. Forces Wall of Remembrance, which displays nearly 40 photos, of fallen Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines, with the date they were killed in action and which brigade they were with, after unveiling the wall during the ceremony at the Kirkuk IP HQ, Kirkuk, June 2.   

KIRKUK - A few days after the U.S. honored fallen service members throughout history, Kirkuk IP honored nearly 40 U.S. service members, who were killed in the Kirkuk prov., since the onset of OIF.

Lt. Col. Daniel Cormier and more than 30 Kirkuk IP held a Memorial Day observance ceremony at the Kirkuk IP HQ.  At the beginning of the ceremony, Maj. Gen. Bakr, provincial police chief of Kirkuk IP and Cormier unveiled a U.S. forces Wall of Remembrance. 

The memorial is located in the main hallway of the Kirkuk IP HQ.  After the unveiling of the wall, Soldiers and IP stood for the remainder of the ceremony.  "We want to show our respect for the fallen," said Bakr.  Throughout the ceremony everyone stood in silence.

Jamal then spoke of why the Kirkuk IP decided to dedicate the wall to their U.S. partners. "The IP of Kirkuk wanted to honor the fallen U.S. heroes, who fought next to our policemen and soldiers for Iraq's freedom, which is why we dedicate this wall in their honor," said Jamal, during his speech at the ceremony.  "We thank all of the U.S. forces for our freedom, and we want to recognize those who made this possible," he continued.

"On behalf of the Families of these fallen servicemembers, I thank the IP of Kirkuk for recognizing these U.S. heroes," Cormier said.  Cormier also said that he thought the wall was very appropriate for Memorial Day. "These Soldiers, Airmen, Sailors and Marines made the ultimate sacrifice for Kirkuk, and to be recognized by the IP, so close to Memorial Day, shows just how appreciative they are for the freedom they now possess," he said.

Maj. Gen. Bakr speaks about the U.S. Forces Wall of Remembrance.

-30-

U.S. Air Forces Central, Baghdad Media Outreach Team 

Following Dad’s Footsteps to Iraq

By Staff Sgt. Sanjay Allen

Sgt. Chris Slifko, 447th ELRS, vehicle fleet mgr, deployed from McConnell AF Base, Kan., points out a fuel leak to his son, Airman 1st Class Ryan Slifko, 447th vehicle mechanic, deployed from Whiteman AFB, Mo. They performed a limited technical inspection on an excess Humvee to determine if it's in a good enough condition to be sent to Afghanistan or sent to a depot to be rebuilt, June 19. 

SATHER AIR BASE -- The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. The saying couldn’t be truer in Iraq as Father’s Day passes half a world away from home for father and son vehicle mechanics. They were able to spend some family time together, touring palaces and other sights of the Victory Base Complex.

Senior Master Sgt. CJ Slifko had a tough decision to make toward the end of his 6 month tour -- whether to approve a waiver on the deployment of his 3-level son Ryan to Iraq. “For whatever reason (the primary person couldn’t come), I got an e-mail from Whiteman (AF Base) asking for a waiver on a 3-level,” the elder Slifko said. “The very last name on there was for my son. It was probably the hardest e-mail I got to answer while I was here, having to approve or disapprove whether or not he could come.”

Rather than letting his heart do the talking, Slifko turned to the paperwork to decide whether the younger Slifko should deploy.  “I had 3-levels on the deployment I’m on.”  “I pretty much took their records, and what their supervision said, laid that next to what his supervision said, left it strictly at that, and gave my recommendation to my cmdr.”

Six weeks later, Airman Slifko was on his way to his 1st deployment, only to be met by none other than his dad, at the military passenger terminal here. “It was a good thing and a bad thing.  Everybody knows that my dad is here, and knows we’re father and son; so I’m going to get picked on about it,” Slifko said. “I guess it’s a good thing because it’s a deployed location, so it’s kind of nice having someone over here right now.”

Sgt. Slifko had the same thoughts on meeting his son here, especially on the ribbing he'll surely get. He was even approved to stay a few extra weeks to see his son get in.  “I think there’s probably some good and bad to that actually,” he said. “I was really hesitant about even staying.  Just because he's a young Airman; it's his first deployment, and I didn’t want him to have to listen to, ‘your dad this, and your dad that’ for the entire deployment.  But by the same token, I’m glad I got to see him.  I’m looking forward to maybe spending a couple hours with him before I get on the plane out of here, when we’re both off duty.”

Turning back the clock a little bit, it’s really no surprise the younger Slifko followed in his father’s footsteps, to end up side-by-side with his dad in Iraq.  He grew up working on cars with his dad -- it was built into him.

Doing things his own way on cars with his dad was something he loved, and with the combination of his whole family being in the military, a bad economy and no luck finding a job, the younger Slifko turned to the AF, and lucked into his father’s career field.

Airmen Slifko did get what he wanted, which may turn out to be more than something to get by with until the economy picks up.  He plans on making a career of the AF, and he aims to pass his dad, who hopes to make chief and stay in a little longer.

“I’m very proud of him in every way,” he said. “It’s kind of tough. I've a lot of respect for the fact that he’s doing it. It’s hard enough to be in our career field, and it has to be really hard on him to have a dad that’s a senior that he has to follow around everywhere he goes.  But I’m very proud of him.”   

Sgt. Chris Slifko inspects the turret chain with his son Ryan.   

-30-

Blackanthem Military News  

'Blackjacks' face interesting challenges in flying Iraqi skies

By Master Sgt. Duff McFadden

Preparing his Black Hawk for a mission, Crew Chief Spc. Christopher Rouse, 2nd Bn, 25th Aviation Bde, performs his preflight maintenance check at COB Diamondback's flight line, June 14.

COB MAREZ - While it's one thing to fly over the lush, tropical vegetation of the Hawaiian Island chain, it's a completely different backdrop when transiting the dry, dusty terrain of Iraq through the air.

For one thing, piloting a UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter gets quite warm, as the plexiglas windows in the nose turns the cockpit into a huge greenhouse. Couple that with an ever-steady flow of missions, as well as diminishing air assets.  An aircrew can find themselves facing some rather interesting challenges.

That's the situation the "Blackjacks" of Alpha Co., 2nd Bn, 25th CAB, who are operationally attached to the 2nd Bn, 159th Attack Readiness Bde, find themselves in, as they continue their current deployment at COB Marez/Diamondback, in Mosul.

While air assault missions are usually the norm for this Wheeler Army Air Field, Oahu, Hawaii-based company, they now find themselves flying air transport, direct support, and general support missions.

When the unit deployed to California's National Training Center, they trained as part of "Lightning Strike," an aerial reaction force.  Basically, said Chief Warrant Officer 2 Mike Parreco, a maintenance test pilot, "we're now moving people around - we're transporting personnel and taking leadership to key leader engagements"

Staff Sergeant Leroy Fanguy, like many of the Blackjacks of 2-25, serves in numerous roles. From 1st sgt to supply chief, Fanguy does whatever it takes to ensure the success of their daily ops.  "It's an adventure every day," said Fanguy. "You never know what you'll face. On any given day, we'll work out any number of changes, from the receipt of our mission, to actual mission completion."

The company consists of 20 enlisted Soldiers and officers, with an average age of 25-28 years old. Staff Sgt. Fanguy is the unit's elder statesman at 31 years of age. Half the crew chiefs have 3 to 4 years of military experience, while the officers have 6 to 10 years of military experience.

With aircraft assets spread thin throughout Iraq, as Chief Warrant Officer 2 Parreco puts it, the unit finds itself, "acting autonomously in an austere theater.  Since we're separated from our bn, in order to survive, you need self-motivated individuals.  Each of our Soldiers must complete their tasks implicitly, allowing us to be successful at our jobs," he said.

"They know their tasks, day in and day out," said crew chief, Spc. Christopher Rouse.  "They're motivated.  Even with 12-13 hour days, everyone is still happy, and everyone still has a smile on their face.  We're one big happy family."

"We have an ever-changing mission, with different situations and different times. We'll often spend 4 to 7, or 4 to 8 hour days flying all over Iraq.  We can hit both the Syrian and Iranian borders, all in one day," Fanguy said.

"We have a great job and it can be a bit taxing at times, but where else are you allowed to play with an $8 million piece of equipment every day?  It's the Cadillac of aircraft," said Chief Warrant Officer 2 Parreco.

Prepping the cockpit of a UH-60 Black Hawk, Maintenance Test Pilot Chief Warrant Officer 2 Mike Parrelo prepares for the day's mission. 

Checking the power gauges as part of the Preventative Maintenance Checks and Services before a mission, Flight Instructor Sgt. Scott Smith prepares for their next mission. 

Assessing the rounds needed for security for that day's mission, Staff Sgt. Leroy Fanguy prepares his UH-60 Black Hawk for its flight. 

-30-

USF-I

June 25, 2010

ISF arrest alleged AQI member/ suspected criminal associates 

BAGHDAD - ISF arrested an alleged AQI member and 5 suspected criminal assocs during 2 separate joint security ops, June 25.

In west Mosul, ISF and U.S. advisors searched several buildings for a suspected AQI member allegedly involved in the facilitation of foreign fighters. Info and evidence gathered at the scene led Iraqi forces to identify and arrest the warranted individual and a suspected AQI criminal assoc.

During another op approx 34km NW of Baghdad, ISF and U.S. advisors searched 2 buildings for a suspected AQI leader allegedly involved in IED production. The SECFOR searched 2 buildings, leading to the discovery of machine gun ammo and several assault vests with full weapon mags.  The info and evidence gathered at the scene led Iraqi forces to identify and arrest 4 suspected AQI criminal assocs.

-30-

 

Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/6-26

Dear Interested Reader,

Education:  the key to the future.  Soldiers meet with Wardak locals.  Afghan Soldiers offer perspectives on violence in Afghanistan.  3/7 welcomes Alpha Co. resupply.

Iraq:  IA security improvements enable successful medical engagement.  Challenge Coins:  more than just metal.  Former welder finds job to support 'passion.'  Suspected JAM criminal assocs. arrested in Baghdad.

Joanna

___________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

DVIDS

Education; the Key to the Future

Story and photos by Cpl. Ned Johnson

Capt. Phillip Noack, a civil affairs team leader with 1st Bn, 2nd Marine Regt, RCT 2, talks to elders in a local village about building a new school, June 10. The elders promised to donate their land to the govt, so a school can be built in the village. 

FOB MUSA QAL’EH – Afghanistan’s improved security was earned by the men and women who put their lives on the line daily, but Afghans and Marines know that education is the key to Afghanistan’s future success.  Musa Qal’eh contains 24 schools, but only 4 of them are open for classes, according to Ghulam Ali, the Musa Qal’eh District minister of education. He's hoping to change that. 

“The long-term goal is to have established schools from primary to secondary education that are funded and run by the GoA,” said Capt. Phillip Noack. “We would like those schools to feed into higher education or trade schools.”  

Marines are not the only ones who want to build schools. “The people here really want education,” Noack said. “They're willing to give their time, money, and their land so their sons and even daughters can go to school.” 

Noack said the process will not happen overnight, but a few of the schools are already being planned.  One of the up-coming schools is in a local village where the elders have already picked a location, and donated it to the ministry of education. 

Once a village wants a school, the Marines can help in several ways. “They know what education can do for them, but the Taliban makes it tough on them,” said Noack,  29. “That's where we can help them by providing security.  We can also provide buildings, help train teachers and complete the long-term projects,” Noack said. 

The desire for education trickles down to the youngest level: the children. “We've talked to many of the kids here and asked them what they want to be when they grow up,” said Noack, a graduate of Texas A&M University. “They say they want to be doctors, lawyers and engrs, and they know that requires education.”

The facts prove these children are not kidding because the largest school in Musa Qal’eh has 700 students. Still, that's not enough. “As they say, ‘build it and they'll come,’” Noack said.

For the Marines, there's more behind education in Afghanistan. “It's been shown that the Taliban preys on the uneducated,” Noack said. “What the teachers are trying to do here is show the kids there are better options.”

What matters most to Marines in Afghanistan is leaving the country in better shape than it was when they arrived. "To have long-term stability you absolutely have to have education,” Noack said. “It's definitely the future: one book at a time, one day at a time.”

Capt. Phillip Noack takes photos of a school that's not completely built.  Civil Affairs Marines are hoping to pay the locals to finish building the school.  

The elders of a local village pose with Ghulam Ali (3rd from right), the Musa Qal'eh minster of education, for a picture in front of the area where they want a school built, June 10. Ghulam Ali travelled with Marines around the area to look at schools in Musa Qal'eh District. 

-30-

Joint Combat Camera Afghanistan

Soldiers Meet With Wardak Locals 

(Army photos by Jon Rosa)   

Army Soldier from 3rd Plt, Chosen Co, 2nd Bn, 503rd Inf, 173rd Abn, meets a village leader to discuss his needs in a village near COP Conlon, Wardak prov., June 8. 

Soldier from 3rd Plt tries to communicate with the local Afghan kids.   

Soldiers move through the village.

A Soldier from 3rd Plt pulls security, while the local Afghan kids observes him. 

A Soldier meets a village leader to discuss his needs.

-30-

International Security Assistance Force HQ Public Affairs

Afghan Soldiers Offer Perspectives on Violence in Afghanistan

KABUL - 6-20-10 - Peace jirgas, talks of reconciliation, and reintegration efforts are topics of high-level political and military discussions throughout Afghanistan.  In Kandahar prov., ANSF soldiers involved in clearing ops daily, say they want their enemies to quit doing the bidding of foreigner leaders who don’t want peace.

“Put down your guns and join our efforts to make Afghanistan safe and secure for everyone,” Muhammad Nasir, an ANSF said.  Nasir’s uncle was executed by the Taliban for non-compliance when he was a child.  He says he’ll never forget, but he says ending the violence outweighs any abhorrence he may feel towards those who murdered his relative.  “I just want unity. We need to join forces—Afghans are responsible for the fate of Afghanistan,” he said. “It's our responsibility to establish security here.”

However, Afghan disgust and contempt for the anti-GoA militants’ methods are prominent among the ANSF ranks. “These foreign leaders and fighters from Pakistan abuse the poor, uneducated people here,” ANSF Soldier Said Karim said. “The foreign leaders of the Taliban are not Muslim.  Muslims do not ask their fellow Muslim to kill and scare innocent people. They don’t care about Afghanistan--they don’t care about our people.”

Wahab, another soldier continued, “I don’t understand the minds of these Taliban. We're soldiers—we protect our civilians. The CF protect Afghans.”  As a Muslim, Wahab said his only hope is for peace.

ANSF soldiers live and work alongside CF, fighting and capturing Taliban, and other foreign fighters in southern Afghanistan.  Since the beginning of May, SECFOR have conducted several clearing ops, capturing more than 75 suspected insurgents, including 8 Taliban cmdrs, and a Taliban IED expert.  CF also killed 2 Taliban cmdrs, including Hajji Amir, who was in charge of operating throughout Dand, Zharay and Panjwa’I districts, May 30.

The team has also discovered and destroyed 2 IED factories, and a large number of IED's and automatic weapons.   

-30-

DVIDS

3/7 Welcomes Alpha Company Resupply

Story by Sgt. Justin Shemanski

Lance Cpl. Brice Williams, a wrecker operator; and Cpl. Philip Cook, a motor transportation mechanic, both with Alpha Co, Combat Logistics Bn 6, 1st Marine Logistics Group (Fwd), load pieces of a damaged equipment onto the bed of a Logistics Vehicle System Replacement, during a resupply and recovery mission in support of Lima Co, 3rd Bn, 7th Marine Regt, May 22.    

CAMP LEATHERNECK – After days in the field and dwindling supplies, Lima Co welcomed the rumbling of more than a dozen gear and food laden tactical vehicles from CLB-6 headed toward their hilltop security position, May 22. 

In addition to items of subsistence, the Marines of Alpha Co, provided vehicle recovery assistance for several trucks and mine rollers, downed by IEDs. “We brought out everything these guys need to live on for the next 4 or 5 days,” said Gunnery Sgt. Mario Locklear, motor transportation ops chief for Alpha Co. This also included 4,800 gallons of fuel.

“Less than 24 hours prior to stepping off, we had to make a few adjustments, add a few vehicles to support their request to pick up a few more downed vehicles, but it was nothing these guys couldn’t handle,” said Locklear. “My guys have a lot of experience under their belt out here, so they knew what they needed to do.”

No sooner had the Marines of the “Red Cloud Bn” stopped their trucks, than the unloading and off loading of gear and supplies began aboard the occupied area, no larger than a couple of football fields laid side by side.

The Marines of 3/7 were in the midst of making their way back to FOB Delaram, after canvassing the area in and around the Musa Qal’eh River Valley for several weeks.  Self proclaimed nomads; the infantrymen welcomed the sight of trucks loaded with items to keep them going a bit longer.

“We’ve moved around quite a bit; we’ve only been here for a day, so we typically only have enough food and water to keep us going to the next position,” said Lance Cpl. Harvey Calderon, an infantryman with Lima Co, 3/7. “It’s always nice to have this type of stuff show up.”

(From left to right) Lance Cpls. David Lee, Matthew Young, Brian Conom and Harvey Calderon of Lima Co, unwind on a hilltop security position, May 22.  

Marines from Lima Co unload supplies from a Marine Corps "7-ton" Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement, aboard their hilltop position on the outskirts of the Musa Qal'eh River Valley, May 22. 

-30-

IRAQI STORIES:

DVIDS

IA Security Improvements Enable Successful Medical Engagement

Story by Spc. Daniel Schneider

Spc. Matthew Mortenson, a medic with Co A, 2nd Bn, 14th Inf Regt, 2nd BCT, 10th Mtn Div, looks at the swollen tonsils of an Iraqi man during a combined medical engagement, June 20. Soldiers teamed up with IA members to provide much-needed medical care to a secluded community near Yusifiyah.   

BAGHDAD – The Iraqi soldiers provided security, while U.S. medics and doctors provided medical care.  Upon arriving to an old schoolhouse, Co A Soldiers quickly turned 4 classrooms into separate exam rooms for males and females, and one pharmacy room to keep medicine. 

In a scenario that wouldn’t have been possible a few years ago, 220 Iraqis were seen and treated for colds, mumps, swollen tonsils and vitamin deficiencies, in just 5 hours. “One of the most amazing things about this location is 2nd Bn. served in this exact area in 2007,” said Lt. Col. John Petkosek, cmdr.  In a testament to the advancements of the ISF, Petkosek saw Iraqi villagers travel freely to receive much needed medical care without fear of their lives. “In just the time I’ve been here, I can’t believe how big of a difference there is in 3 years.”

The IA’s involvement in the event also strengthened their reputation among the population they serve, building trust within the hearts of residents who attend them.

“We’re here to help connect the ISF with the local Iraqis,” said Petkosek. “If we can show the citizens of Iraq that the ISF are more than just a bunch of guys with guns, then they can start to trust them.  The ISF have proven that they can work independently of U.S. forces,” Petkosek concluded. “After all that work the U.S. has done, we can now see the fruits of our labor – the past has paid off.”

Iraqi villagers gather at a search point to get medical treatment.  Soldiers have been conducting these missions with IA support throughout the Yusifiyah area for the past month.    

Soldiers listen to a local Iraqi kid excitedly tell them a story.

-30-

DVIDS

Challenge Coins: More Than Just Metal

Story by Spc. Cassandra Monroe

Cpl. Eric Gillson, a chaplain asst, currently assigned under 3rd ID, holds up one of his favorite coins he has earned during his deployment at COB Speicher, Tikrit, June 23.    

COB SPEICHER – Aristotle once said, “We are what we repeatedly do.  Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.”

Excelling at a job or task is something that Soldiers continually strive to achieve in the military. Many try their hardest to go the extra mile, or give it their all when given a task. Hard work is expected out of Soldiers, and efficiency and productivity are noticed.

Leaders and peers notice the extra effort of Soldiers. There are ways of distinguishing and honoring them from certificates of appreciation to a verbal “thank you.” One way leaders show gratitude and appreciation, is a unique way that will not expire or easily be replaced. 

That unique way often comes in different shapes, sizes, colors, and is often personalized. That way of showing appreciation is through a medallion, a coin that is earned through hard work and dedication to the job or mission at hand. 

“To me, a coin is like an Army Achievement Medal or award,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Byron Loyd, the command sgt maj for DSTB, 3rd ID. “There are 2 types of coins I give: the regular bn coin that represents the bn, and then my personal coin that has my name and rank on it.  It symbolizes something solid from me as a senior leader.  It’s my way of saying thank you for the hard work I see you do.

“When I was a young Soldier, my first coin was given to me as a private by then Maj. Gen. Colin Powell.  I said to myself, ‘Wow. This is a trinket to have.’ 

For Cpl. Eric Gillson, a chaplain asst, currently assigned under 3rd ID, receiving coins from distinguished individuals makes his job worthwhile.  One coin, a circular medallion, its edges encrusted with a gold plate and the center filled with white paint and a Navy master chief’s rank, is one of his favorites.  It's special because it came from someone who's not in his direct chain of command, but sees him often. Gillson was charged with maintaining the Chaplain’s Corner, a small office where service members would go to get their morning coffee, socialize and read the daily quotes and riddles on the board. The master chief would come in daily and Gillson’s hard work paid off.

“He said to me, ‘I like your style, and I see the hard work you’re doing here.’ It meant a lot to me,” said Gillson. “I felt good, because I felt like I received a coin for just being me, just being who I am on a day-to-day basis.”

Another one of Gillson’s favorite coins is one that he earned when he was a pvt 1st class. “I had arrived early to a spiritual retreat, and they needed help setting things up, so I helped them out, and continued to for the rest of the 4 days I was there,” he said. “At the end of it, I was coined by Maj. Gen. Douglas Carver, who is the U.S. Army Chief of Chaplains.  Getting your 1st coin from a maj gen as a pvt 1st class was really cool.”

For some Soldiers, a coin means more than a pat on the back or a certificate of appreciation; receiving a coin from a distinguished leader brings a boost of morale for the Soldiers. Hopefully, Soldiers who see their peers doing the right thing and getting rewarded for it will be encourage to excel in their work, duties and personal goals.

-30-

DVIDS

Former Welder Finds Job to Support 'passion'

Story by Spc. Jessica Rohr

Sgt. Keith Wright, a chaplain asst for DSTB, 3rd ID, out of Fort Stewart, Ga., is currently serving on his 4th deployment, at COB Speicher, near Tikrit, June 23.   

COB SPEICHER – Wright joined the Army to get some direction in life after high school.  After completing basic combat training at Fort Sill, Okla., Aug. 1999, Wright graduated from the U.S. Army Ordnance Mechanical Maintenance School at Aberdeen Proving Grounds, Md., as a metal worker, December 1999. 

“One job that came up was metal worker.  In high school I did welding for a semester, so I was already familiar with it.  I was like, ‘Hey I could do that,’” said Sgt. Wright. “They built up my confidence and skills.”

From 2003 to 2006, Sgt. Wright served with the Georgia Army NG. While in the Guard, Sgt. Wright developed interest in a new occupational specialty. “During my transition from active duty to a civilian, I had a maturing experience mentally and coming into the faith.  I am now a Christian,” said Wright. “When I got activated with the NG I found out about chaplain assts. That’s when I decided my desire or passion wasn’t for welding.  If I could be in the Army and do something I love, and be closer to something I love, then I need to go and pursue it."

Wright re-enlisted into the active duty Army, and re-classed to chaplain asst of the Army Chaplain Center and School, Fort Jackson, S.C., March 2009. Wright returned to 3rd ID and has been here for 8 years. 

Chaplain assts support all faiths, regardless of their own beliefs.  Defending the constitution is one of many missions the Army is charged with. The 1st Amendment ensures freedom of religion, providing each Soldier the right to practice their religion. 

A chaplain asst helps facilitate the Soldiers’ free exercise of religion by providing services and assistance.  Wright helps chaplains setup and prepare for any type of service necessary. To do this, Wright has learned about the different religious artifacts, and how to handle them properly in order not to offend anyone.

-30-

USF-I

ISF arrest suspected JAM criminal associates in Baghdad

BAGHDAD - ISF arrested 3 suspected Jaysh al-Mahdi (JAM) criminal assocs during a joint security op in NW Baghdad, June 24.  ISF and U.S. advisors searched 2 buildings for a suspected JAM leader who is allegedly involved in IED attacks against ISF and CF.

Info and evidence gathered at the scene led Iraqi forces to identify and arrest 3 suspected JAM criminal assocs.  All joint ops are conducted pursuant to a warrant issued by an Iraqi judge.

-30-

Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/6-25

Dear Interested Reader,

Routine op meets resistance in Helmand prov.  'America's Bn,' ANA complete first task in Op New Dawn in Southern Shorshork.  ANA Commandos drive Taliban from Awlagal.  Kentucky ADT transfers authority.

Iraq:  Troops bring gifts to summer camp.  Charles Wagner finds solace, beauty in stone art.  Col. Check Sexton comforted by own 'Old Glory.'  Wheelchairs provided to disabled Iraqi children.

Joanna

__________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

DVIDS

Routine Operation Meets Resistance

Story by Cpl. Daniel Blatter

Lance Cpl. Daniel Franke, a dog handler attached to Alpha Co, 1st Bn, 2nd Marine Regt, RCT 2, lays in the prone on an overlooking hill with his dog, in Towrah Ghundey, June 11. The Marines posted on the hill soon received enemy contact and suppressed the enemy, causing them to retreat.   

HELMAND PROVINCE – Alpha Co, combined with ANSF, headed north to show face in an area not often visited by friendly forces, June 9. The mission’s purpose was to reach the northern villages, and engage with the local elders, while gaining info about their neighboring town, Bar Now Zad.

“We wanted to get the ANA and ANP a little further up north, and to see how well they operate together,” said 2nd Lt. Gene Price, the XO of Alpha Co. “We decided to go to Badam, a place we haven’t been to in a while.  We also wanted to hit some other spots in the area of op to include Towrah Ghundey, a town with a possible Taliban mortar site we wanted to check out.”

"Both locations are a few miles north of Now Zad, and they border Bar Now Zad, possibly one of the largest Taliban strongholds in Helmand prov.," said Price. “The intent was to get out to the local population, let them know what is available for them, verses the Taliban persuading them,” said Price. “The Taliban tells the people that their govt won’t be able to help them.”
Although Price explained the benefits of what their govt can do for the townsmen, the people still stated that the Taliban would kill them, and they weren't leaving the village.

The convoy departed FOB Caffereta with not only a fleet of vehicles, but with the manpower to make things happen. “On the convoy to Badam, we hit an IED at a choke point just south of Kenjak Olya,” said Sgt. Javen Roberson, the plt sgt for 2nd plt, Alpha Co. “We lost one Marine from the fight that was medically evacuated out with a grade-3 concussion, but we moved on and staged just outside of Badam for the night.”

Badam was anticipated to be a calm and friendly area; however, it was anything but.  While in the middle of a conversation between Price and the local elders, an explosion rattled the ground and shots started to pop off.  Marines, ANA and ANP rushed towards the firing, but came to find nothing.

“We pushed out to a hilltop to observe where they were firing from as 5 rounds of small arms fire were shot at us,” said Price. “They also fired one more round of indirect fire at us while we were on the hill. “It felt like they were bracketing us, so we pulled back and went around the backside to Towrah Ghundey.”

Once at Towrah Ghundey, the ANA spotted a suspicious compound and insisted they search it. “We always listen to the ANA," said Roberson. “We listen to them because they know what to look for, and even know the people that belong, by the different accent in their voice."  

“While searching a compound, we started receiving small-arms fire and indirect fire,” said Price. “As soon as we received contact, the Marines didn’t hesitate, they pursued the enemy and forced them into a valley, where there was an egress point leading to Bar Now Zad.”

The Marines tried to isolate the enemy to avoid losing site of them, but as the Marines pursued, the enemy slipped away into the populace. “A turret gunner saw 4 guys run out of a compound, and open up with AK47s, then run into a herd of sheep, and go back into the village,” said Lance Cpl. Will MacDonald a squad leader for the machine-gun section of Alpha Co. “After that, we lost positive ID.  We pushed up and tried to cut off their egress route, but they were gone.”  The Taliban fired rounds and ran.

“They're not able to influence us at all,” said Price. “They shoot more sporadic fire then anything, and they're not accurate with their weapons. They just take pop shots and run away. Well, the next time they try to run away, we'll be sitting there ready for them.”

After the contact, the convoy pushed to patrol base Sofla, to make them aware of the situation and stay for the night. “We returned to Towrah Ghundey the next day,” said Roberson. “We went into that same building again and the same thing happened; we got shot at; only this time we had Marines waiting.  We also detained the guy that had IED making material, and was manufacturing homemade explosives in his compound,” said Roberson.

The Marines countered the Taliban tactics and as Price said, the Marines were waiting.  Nearly an hour of lying in the prone overlooking the village, shots started firing, and they were quickly suppressed. The enemy not only fired sporadic small arms from the hilltops, but also fired mortars from the opposite side of the hill.

“After they started firing, we had heavy suppression on the enemy,” said MacDonald. “We saw them running around on the ridgeline, so I started to engage them with my M240 Bravo machinegun. I fired between 400 and 500 rounds at a sustained rate, so my gunner on the MK-19 automatic grenade launcher, could follow the tracer rounds and open up with the Mark.”

MacDonald wasn’t the only Marine to lay down heavy fire.  “I laid down 150 rounds of fire that way,” said Lance Cpl. Joshua Davis, a turret gunner with Alpha Co. “I was sitting in the turret waiting for them to fire, so I could see where they were. Three rounds flew over my head; one hit my bulletproof window on one side of the turret, and another hit it on the other side.  I began suppressing the hilltop where the shots were coming from, and others joined me.

“It was pretty scary,” he added. “My adrenalin was running, and I was trying to find where they were shooting from, so I could shoot them before they shot me.” Then there came a moment of silence.  The firefight was over, as the Taliban threat was defeated.

“There'll be further ops with increased numbers of ANSF.  We're here to mentor them, and turn the security over to them,” said Price. “In the past 3 days the ANA and ANP have demonstrated that they're not afraid to fight the Taliban. They're aggressive warriors, and they'll pursue the enemy while operating alongside Marines.”

“It was phenomenal to be part of this op, and to be out there watching the Marines react under pressure.  It was even more phenomenal to watch the ANP, ANA and Marines come together as a team while fighting the same enemy,” Price continued.

Just more than an hour into an op, a medical-evacuation helicopter was called in to lift out an injured Marine. "The Marine is fine," said Sgt. Javen Roberson, plt sgt.  "He received a grade-3 concussion, and is recovering well." 

Alpha Co vehicles staged just outside Badam the evening of June 9, to stay the night and engage with local elders at a shura the next morning.  After the sun went down, Marines  settled in for what was to be an uneventful night.  However, the next morning, while in the shura, an explosion shook the ground as Marines and ANSFreceived small arms fire and indirect fire. The convoy worked its way to Towrah Ghundey where it was met with the same greeting.  

Marines patrol the area of Towrah Ghundey, June 10, while 2nd Lt. Gene Price talks with local elders about the surrounding area, and the insurgent forces coming out of Bar Now Zad. 

Second Lt. Gene Price sits and talks with the elders of Badam about their concerns and problems, June 10.  While a few of the locals didn't want to talk with Marines, a few talked about their lack of water and lack of security.  Price urged the locals to attend the shuras in Now Zad to discuss possible solutions to the problems that may exist in their town. 

Lance Cpl. Joseph Szempruch, a team leader, watches the entry points of a compound while Marines, ANA and ANP conduct a routine patrol, as 2nd Lt. Gene Price interacts with local elders, and questions them about the bordering city of Bar Now Zad.  

2nd Lt. Gene Price talks with local elders at Towrah Ghundey while Marines and ANSF search compounds, looking for anything out of the ordinary or illegal.  Price talked with the elders about attending the Now Zad shura, and any insurgent activity in the area. 

Lance Cpl. Joseph Szempruch posts security on a hill in Badam moments after taking indirect fire from a bordering village June 10. The Marine element pushed to Towrah Ghundey, where they were met with more small-arms and indirect fire soon after.     

Lance Cpl. Will MacDonald, a squad leader for the machinegun section, lays in the prone, waiting for the enemy to approach, June 11. After nearly an hour of laying in wait, Taliban fired from a hilltop, and MacDonald fired 400 to 500 rounds suppressing them, and denying the enemy the ability to further engage our troops.    

While on a hilltop, Cpl. Jesse Colio, maintenance chief, waits with his rifle ready as Cpl. Brendan Cross, a squad leader, looks through binoculars to locate any enemy threat in the surrounding village around Towrah Ghundey, June 11. After nearly an hour of laying in the prone, the enemy fired upon friendly forces, and the Marines quickly responded, suppressing the enemy fire.   

-30-

DVIDS

'America's Bn,' ANA Complete First Task in Op New Dawn

Story by Sgt. Mark Fayloga

Marine Corps 1st Lt. Christopher Cook, convoy cmdr, H&S Co, 3rd Bn, 3rd Marine Regt, and Sgt. Zachary Tokumoto, asst convoy cmdr, talk during a break in the Lima Co convoy from COP Toor Ghar to Southern Shorshork, Helmand prov., June 16.  

SOUTHERN SHORSHORK - Marines in partnership with the ANA, successfully completed their first task of establishing an observation post, in Southern Shorshork, in support of Op New Dawn, June 17.  Op New Dawn is a joint op between Marine Corps units and the ANA to disrupt enemy forces, which have been using the sparsely populated region between Marjah and Nawa as a safe haven.

The men of ‘America’s Bn’ and their ANA counterparts are responsible for establishing a defensive blocking position to deny enemy forces freedom of movement in the area. “We’re going to be conducting patrols, vehicle checkpoints and looking at the population, making sure there aren’t people from out of the area coming in and causing harm or issues for the local people,” said Capt. Luke Pernotto, L Co cmdr., and cmdr for 3/3’s ground force in Op New Dawn.  “We want to make sure enemy forces can’t be reinforced, and don’t fall back to regroup in this area.  We’ve made extreme progress in Nawa, and to have it all go to waste, especially when we’re doing our last bit of clean-up in the Trek Nawa area, would be a shame.”

Following a nearly 7-hour convoy from COP Toor Ghar, which took much longer than expected, due to traveling on roads unused by CF, and vehicle problems, an initial observation post was set up in a local’s compound.

During the first 48 hours of the op, the Marines overcame obstacles to establish an observation post.  While continuing to build up their defensive position, the Marines began to patrol in their new area of responsibility.

Afghan elders gathered nearby within a few hours of beginning to build up the compound.  Pernotto and ANA 1st Sgt. Beland, along with fellow leadership met with them.  The compound the men moved into was located near a cemetery, where local women often go to pray. The elders worried the women would no longer be able to travel to the cemetery, and adamantly asked the military to move to a new position.

“We're here for Afghanistan to build up the area,” Beland, from Jalalabad, said to the elders. “We're from this country, to serve this country.”  Beland and Pernotto persuaded the elders to allow them to stay in the compound for one night, before moving further south to a position on the edge of the desert, but close enough to interact with the local populace.

“We’re essentially on the line where the desert ends and cultivation and civilization begins,” said Pernotto. “Once the population realizes that a lot of their fears are unwarranted, and we really are here to help them, that’s when we can begin to work with them and show that the GoA, along with the partnership of the Marines, are here to make their lives better. Yes, we had to take some land, but we took unfavorable land out in the desert to establish an operating base.”

It became evident that the area the Marines and ANA now occupy hasn’t been patrolled or observed. While sweeping the observation post, Lance Cpl. Steven Lowe, an engr from H&S Co., 3/3, discovered a buried cache of materials needed to make 2 pressure-plate, IEDs.

“Anytime you take away a position that the enemy uses, or you occupy a position that’s known to be frequented by the enemy, you hope to yield positive results,” Pernotto said. “Those 2 pressure plates could easily trigger 2 200-lb IEDs. Taking those off of the battlefield, that alone, has already contributed to Op New Dawn, and the overall security of this area.”

The Marines and ANA have taken their time with establishing their position, and for good reason — they understand the importance of making a positive impression with the people here. The area has little electricity, and few forms of distraction, so the Marines have become the primary source of entertainment.

“All of our movements are watched by both those who support us and those who don’t, and that’s completely acceptable,” Pernotto said. “Even the guys that don’t like us, when they see us handling ourselves well and acting well, I think we can win over people who may originally not liked us.

“I’d like to continue to build up the area and provide the security to where we can get the elders together and start discussing the issues, and having partnership with the elders and the ANA, as they continue to improve life around here,” said Pernotto.

ANA and Lima Co, meet with local elders in Southern Shorshork.  

Lance Cpl. Travis Lane, a team leader with 3rd Plt, and Lance Cpl. Si Moy, rifleman, patrol farmland near where Lima Company first established an observation post in Southern Shorshork.

Lance Cpl. Joshua Melendez, squad automatic weapon gunner, provides security.  It was Melendez' 25th birthday. Melendez spent his last birthday in Iraq. 

ANA 1st Sgt. Beland addresses the concerns of local elders near the first observation post set up in Southern Shorshork. 

Pfc. William Pruitt, machine gunner, Weapons Plt, takes a drink from his hydration system, during Lima Co's convoy from COP Toor Ghar to Southern Shorshork. The convoy took longer than expected, and Pruitt, spent almost 7 hours in his vehicle, where he said it was, "hot as hell."

Sgt. James Humerick, squad leader, guides an all-terrain vehicle into a compound 3/3 occupied for the first night. 

1st Sgt. Wesley Misenhimer and Capt. Luke Pernotto, the 1st sgt and comm. officer, listen to the concerns of local elders. 

Marines return from a patrol in Southern Shorshork.

While sweeping the area where Marines and the ANA built an observation post, Lance Cpl. Steven Lowe, an engr from H&S Co, discovered a buried cache of materials needed to make 2 pressure-plate, IEDs.  

-30-

Office of the Secretary of Defense Public Affairs

Afghan, ISAF Update, 6-21

HELMAND PROVINCE - 6-21-10 - Afghan and CF struck a blow against insurgent ops over the weekend in one of several recent ops, military officials reported.  Afghan forces working with ISAF partners conducted an op the night of June 19, south of Nad-e Ali to degrade insurgents' ability to coordinate attacks, and move weapons and bomb-making materials around the area, officials said. 

After surrounding a compound housing a Taliban insurgent and his accomplices, Afghan special police ensured all residents of the compound exited safely.  Several women and children were protected while several men were detained, along with an assault weapon and an undisclosed amount of opium. Two of the detained men were positively identified as Taliban cmdrs who planned and conducted numerous attacks in Nad-e Ali, and supplied weapons into the area.

KANDAHAR PROVINCE - In a separate op June 19, an Afghan-ISAF detained a number of suspected insurgents, while pursuing the Taliban cmdr responsible for insurgent activity in the western part of the prov. The SECFOR detained the men, and found a 45-lb bag of wet opium while searching a compound in Panjwai district.

KHOST PROVINCE - Also that night, a separate Afghan-ISAF detained several suspected insurgents, while pursuing a Haqqani terrorist network cmdr in Sabari district. The SECFOR also found and destroyed several homemade bombs during the op. 

LOGAR PROVINCE - In Baraki Barak district that night, another Afghan-ISAF detained 2 suspected insurgents while pursuing a Taliban sub-cmdr linked to bombing and rocket attacks against Afghan and CF. 

BORDER OF KHOST AND PAKTIA PROVINCES - On June 19, Afghan and ISAF conducted ops against the Haqqani network overnight, and throughout the day.  Precision air strikes were used in self-defense against a large number of armed insurgents, officials said.

-30-

RE-East in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

ANSF drive Taliban from Awlagal

NURISTAN PROVINCE – ANA Commandos executed an air assault on the town of Awlagal, June 23, clearing it of Taliban fighters.  Reacting to intel reports, the Afghan assault force swept the area. Initial reports indicate 20-25 insurgents were killed with no ANA casualties. The ANA Commandos took deliberate steps to avoid hurting any innocent civilians during the op.

 

“The ANA commandos executed a well-planned, well-executed strike, taking the fight to the enemy,” said Army Lt. Col. Randall Harris, dep. comm. officer, TF Bastogne. “Nuristan is safer today due to their skill and devotion to the security of the people.”

CF provided air support and supplies for the op. The support helped the Commandos clear Taliban from Awlagal, disrupting insurgent ops throughout the region.  

In a phone interview June 23 with Gov. Badr of Nuristan, he said, “I'm very pleased with the op in Awlagal.  It had been a gathering place for the enemy.”  Badr went on to say that he was also pleased with the coalition support the commands received.

-30-

RC-East in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Kentucky ADT transfers authority

Story and photo by Army Staff Sgt. Whitney Hughes 

BAGRAM AIRFIELD – Army Command Sgt. Maj. Alexander Maloney, the ranking NCO of Kentucky ADT 1, from Fort Campbell, Ky., case their unit’s colors during a transfer of authority ceremony, June 23.  During the ceremony, the Kentucky ADT 1 transferred authority of their area of responsibility in Parwan, Kapisa, Panjshir, and Bamyan, which is the largest of any ADT in Afghanistan, to the Kentucky ADT 2.

-30-

IRAQI STORIES:

DVIDS

Troops bring gifts to summer camp

Story and photos by Pfc. Adrian Muehe

Lt. Col. Mitch Rambin, cmdr of 5th Bn, 20th Inf Regt, 3rd Stryker BCT, 2nd ID, gives colored pencils to children at the Summer Camp for Kids in Baqubah.  It's a program designed for orphans and special-needs children organized by the Red Crescent, the Middle East’s equivalent of the Red Cross.  Soldiers from 5/20 were at the camp delivering soccer balls and school supplies, donated by elementary schools in America. 

DIYALA — Multiple camps are set up throughout this prov., in the cities of Baqubah, Muqdadiyah, Balad Ruz and Al-Abarra. To assist the Red Crescent and to show their support, Soldiers from 5th Bn delivered the gifts for the camp, June 9.

“We mixed students from all 5 qadas [a region comparable to a county in the U.S.],” said Hazim Sarraj, Red Crescent dir. for Diyala prov. “We mix different ethnicities, different sects, different colors, Kurdish, Arabic, Sunni, Shia; we bring all these children here to Baqubah.”

While the program is designed for orphans and special-needs children, camp administrators invite children who are talented in arts, or who excel in class, to the camp to help the campers enhance their skills.  While attending, children participate in many activities and classes such as drawing, music, drama, and English.

“I can’t imagine elementary age kids in America learning Arabic this good,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Joe Dallas, command sgt maj of 5/20 Inf., after hearing a demonstration during an English class at the camp.

Attendees also take time out of their academic studies to play sports and mingle with other children in the camp every afternoon.  A courtyard complete with soccer goals, a basketball hoop, volleyball court and ping pong tables lies in the middle of the classrooms.

“We have new developments every day,” said Hazim. “We meet every week to come up with new activities for the kids.”  This is the first year a summer camp has been offered for the children, and the Red Crescent is taking action to work with the Iraqi Ministry of Education to implement this as a permanent program led by the GoI in the future.

The Soldiers of 5/20 Inf. played no role in establishing or running the camp, but assisted the Red Crescent by delivering gifts from another group of kids. “The soccer balls and school supplies were sent to us from schools all across the U.S.,” said Lt. Col. Mitch Rambin. “It’s a way for kids back home to show their appreciation for the challenges these kids have had to go through in the past 7 years, being in a war torn country and losing parents to sectarian violence.  It’s not fair; no kid should ever have to go through that.”

After the Soldiers delivered the gifts, they took a guided tour of the facilities.  Many children preformed demonstrations to show the visitors what they’ve learned.  Many of the Soldiers were impressed.  A few even stated that the curriculum seemed more fun than summer camps they went to as children.

The Summer Camp for Kids not only encourages children to be creative, learn new skills and participate in fun activities, it also enables young boys and girls to walk away with something they may have not had in their lives before; hope.

A guest speaker visits the students each week to speak of their own personal experience in overcoming specific challenges, to help foster a sense of optimism within the children. “Today they had a doctor come speak to them who grew up as an orphan,” said Rambin. “This is a way to show them that even being an orphan, there's still a future for them.”

Two girls perform a skit during a drama class. 

-30-

DVIDS

Charles Wagner finds solace, beauty in stone art

Story and photo by Pvt. Zach Zuber

This marble emblem for 3rd Stryker BCT, 2nd ID, was created by Charles Wagner, a mechanic with General Dynamic Land Systems.  Wagner will present it to the bde at the end of their deployment here.

DIYALA — For Charles Wagner it all started when 3 U.S. Soldiers lost their lives here in 2005.  Wagner, a U.S. civilian contractor then working in Mosul, had to find a way to deal with the pain of losing his friends.  As a way to elevate his sorrow and honor the U.S. military, Wagner began shaping marble stones into crests, crosses and hearts.  Since that time, he's created many works of art for units, and individual service members.

“This started out as a way to displace myself from what’s going on over here, working during off hours to focus on other things,” said Wagner.  He lost all 3 Soldiers on one mission, and created hearts, crucifixes, and lancers for each of the parents, as a way to connect to them.

During his 2006-07 tour with 3rd SBCT, 2nd ID, he created a replica of the Indian-head shield that represents the 2nd ID.  When he deployed with the 3rd SBCT here in Aug., he received the request to make that crest, which includes the 2nd ID shield on top of an arrowhead, with the number 3 located above the shield.

The piece, carved from nearly 50- lbs of marble, is a chance to leave a permanent personal memento with the bde, said Wagner.  “I was born at Madigan Army Hospital, at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash., so I kind of share the pride of the bde,” he said.  “For the Soldiers, this is my gift back, because of what the military has done for me.  It’s a lot of pride for me to be asked to do this, and to offer it to the Soldiers of the bde.”

Wagner is quick to share his gift with any who are interested.  Often, when Soldiers drop off vehicles to his shop for repair, they see the stone carvings he has laying around.  If a curious individual asks about them, Wagner gladly explains how they can create their own art from a simple block of stone.

“If you give someone a square block, they can take a saw to the corners and round it off with a washer to make a perfect circle,” said Wagner. “That’s what I show to Soldiers I meet; to help them take their mind off of what’s going on, and let them drift somewhere else.”

After they're taught basic carving techniques, the Soldiers then have the opportunity to enlighten the teacher. “Everybody has a different opinion of how life is, and you can see that when someone is given a piece of stone and turns it into a unit crest, a shot glass, or even just a ball.”

By spending time here just like Soldiers do, he understands how they feel about being away from home, he said.  His hope is to offer those willing to listen, some of the knowledge he’s gained through years of life experiences.  “Our main thing here is to help Soldiers,” he said. “The main thing is to at least make the time here seem shorter.”

Since he started working with stone more than 7 years ago, Wagner has provided more than 100 Soldiers with a piece of marble and the proper tools to shape it.  When the time comes this summer for him to present the crest to the 3rd SBCT, all will know that it also represents a piece of his heart.

-30-

DVIDS

Colonel comforted by own ‘Old Glory’

Written by Maj. Stephen Holt

The Cmdr of 2nd HBCT, 3rd ID, Col. Chuck Sexton, respectfully folds the American flag that he has carried with him on deployments for the past 24 years. (Army photo by Spc. Gregory Gieske)

COB MAREZ – It goes by many names – Old Glory, the Stars and Stripes, the Red, White and Blue – but, no matter what you call it, the U.S. flag represents a free and unified country, indivisible, with freedom and justice for all.

However, for one U.S. service member here, one single, specific, U.S. flag provides a far more personal representation.  Although worn, tattered, and frayed at the edges, it has witnessed the highs and lows of 6 different military deployments, and has flown in 5 different countries.

It’s more than just the cloth and material, though, which gives this flag its special meaning.  It represents the cause for which Soldiers have given their lives.  It represents the Soldiers who serve their country, putting themselves into harm’s way, preserving the freedoms we enjoy today.

This specific flag has special meaning for Col. Chuck Sexton. The respect he has for this flag is a quality bestowed upon him by his parents.  “Both my mother and father’s families were immigrants to the U.S., who left Europe to get away from oppression and slavery in Eastern and Western Europe,” said Sexton. “When they came to this country, they valued the country so much they defended it during World War II. They taught me as a kid growing up, to always respect my country and flag.”

Respect for the flag has carried over to Sexton’s military service. “It’s a part of you. It’s something that’s very comforting to bring with me each time I go.  When I flew it in Somalia, it got some battle damage there.  It also got some damage in the first Gulf War.  Usually I keep it folded now, because it’s frayed at the edges in a couple of places, and it’s got some shrapnel rips in it.

“In the first Gulf War the stars and stripes got a little greyer from the oil fires,” he continued. “It took a little bit of shrapnel from Iraqi artillery and it put a couple of rips in it. The wind was really strong then, so it kind of unraveled a little bit at the ends, too.”

Sexton said he remembers with clarity a windy day, Feb. 27, 1991, after capturing the Jalibah Airfield, a place south of Tallil, along Highway 8, during Op Desert Storm.  “After we captured the airfield, at 8 o’clock in the morning and things were still smoking, we pulled out our flags because we had them stowed during the attack,” he said. “I mounted mine on top of the track. It was for a good reason – part of it was for morale and the other was so we wouldn’t get hit by our own aircraft.  It was a really good feeling to see the good old Stars and Stripes unfurled and flying in the breeze.  You heard a lot of the guys cheering, and it was a good feeling, seeing that flag flying.”

“Now, when someone asks me to re-enlist them, or asks me to promote them, I always bring it with me,” said Sexton. “It’s kind of neat to look over the last 20-plus years, and the number of people that have stood under that flag with their hands up swearing an oath – either an oath of re-enlistment, or an oath to our nation. It’s easily in the hundreds now.

“It’s even neater to watch the Soldiers you’ve been with.  It causes it to become more tangible and more of a living thing. That is the most critical part – it represents the people. That’s what makes our country great. It’s the people it represents, instead of one specific leader. The flag talks about that continuity,” he concluded, with a knowing smile.

-30-

DVIDS

Wheelchairs Provided to Disabled Iraqi Children

Story by Staff Sgt. Jeff Hansen

Sgt. 1st Class Eboni Britton, a retention operation NCO from Co B, Div STB, 1st AR Div, pushes an Iraqi girl around in her new wheelchair at Camp Liberty, June 21.  

BAGHDAD – Soldiers from 1st AR Div worked together with sailors, airmen and civilians to distribute pediatric wheelchairs to approx 40 disabled Iraqi children.  The project mgr, Brad Blauser, an administrative asst for TF Safe, founded the org. Wheelchairs for Iraqi Kids, which provided the wheelchairs for the event.

"Wheelchairs for Iraqi Kids was created in Aug. 2005 in response to a request for aid from Soldiers, who had witnessed disabled children without wheelchairs, struggling for mobility," said Blauser.  With help from Soldiers all over Iraq, Blauser has distributed more than 740 pediatric wheelchairs all over the country. The wheelchairs are designed specifically for children who live in areas of rough terrain, explained Blauser. 

Army Pfc. Ginger Lamere volunteered her free time to help fellow service members assemble wheelchairs the day prior to the event. “It’s such a good cause,” said Lamere, a mechanic in the DSTB motorpool.  She smiled and said her job didn’t really make assembling wheelchairs any easier, as they didn’t come with instructions.

With so many volunteers, the assembly of the wheelchairs only took a couple of hours. However, the distribution of the chairs proved more difficult.  It wasn't as simple as just handing them out. The children had to have the chairs fitted to their bodies to avoid causing further health complications.

Pressure sores can develop and become very serious if they become infected, said Lt. Col. Vincent Barnhart, the div. surgeon for 1st AR Div. “These chairs are designed to fit the size and condition of the child.”

Each child was carefully placed in a wheelchair and service members gently adjusted the chair to fit the child’s body to ensure their comfort and safety. One parent of each child was present to observe how to adjust the chairs so as their children grow, the chair can be adjusted to “grow” with them.

“These chairs can benefit children in many situations,” said Capt. Antonio Chang, a DSTB aid station physician asst. “The chairs can be used by children with conditions from multiple sclerosis to trauma injuries.”

“This was a great opportunity to give back to the Iraqi people, and a great way to ring in the new era of Op New Dawn,” said Chang. “I feel lucky to be one of the fortunate ones to be here. It brings me great happiness to be a part of this.”

Command Sgt. Maj. Sal Katz, the senior NCO of DSTB, is introduced to Abdallah, an Iraqi boy who received a pediatric wheelchair.  Katz played with the boy throughout the afternoon. "Abdallah touched my heart," said Katz.    

[[posterous-content:XrBRGT2U5oCpU

Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/6-24

Dear Interested Reader,

Ghazni PRT attends Provincial Development Council.  Khost PRT conducts fire rescue training.  200 local leaders attend tribal affairs meeting in Sharana.  Top Polish officials visits troops at FOB Ghazni.

Iraq:  373rd CSSB hosts "Impact A Hero Shadow Run/Walk" for wounded warriors at Camp Liberty.  Op Pencil Giver in Mosul.  Tigris bridge span will help farmers, trade.  Suspected AOI criminal assocs. arrested in northern Iraq.

Joanna

_________________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

RC-East in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Ghazni PRT attends Provincial Development Council

Story and photos by AF 1st Lt. Katherine Roling 

 

Shokrieh Vali, (right) Ghazni province Director of Women’s Affairs, speaks to other members from the Ghazni Provincial Development Council about projects for the future 2013 Center for Islamic Culture event, June 20. The Ghazni PRT attended the meeting to learn the PDC’s project priorities, and explain which projects they were funding. 

GHAZNI PROVINCE – “I want the people to care for their communities,” said Ghazni Prov. Gov. Musa Khan to the PRT before the meeting.  He didn't want the PRT to do all the projects. “The Provincial Development Council must do their jobs,” he said.

The gov’s last request was for an airport, a task not taken lightly, because it would require a trained aviation staff.  The airport was an idea to prepare for the 2013 Center for Islamic Culture that Ghazni City was selected to hold earlier in 2007.  The city is busy trying to renovate historical landmarks, and prepare for visitors from around the world. Time is nearing, and the Gov. has already started cleaning the city for the upcoming event.

The gov. and his staff have started a program to improve cleanliness in several areas, including hotels, barbershops and butcher shops, and he's discouraged people from disposing their waste in the streets.  Besides cleanliness, the governor’s other priority is security.  In fact, he has encouraged Ghazni citizens to shun the insurgents and provide zero assistance to them.  He warned them that the presence of insurgents is hurting their cause to improve Ghazni prov.   

The Ghazni PRT Cmdr, Navy Cmdr. Philip Kapusta, assured the council that the PRT makes its contractors adhere to their building regulations.  “We certainly want to do good quality projects,” Kapusta said. “It doesn’t do us any good to have our name associated with poor quality projects.”

Left to right, Navy Master Chief Petty Officer John Goebel, Ghazni PRT engr, and Navy Lt. Stefan Yesko, Ghazni PRT chief engr, take part in the Provincial Development Council’s meeting. Yesko informed the Gov., and the PDC members about the current projects funded by the PRT, as well as introduced upcoming projects that his team has received. 

-30-

RC-East in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Khost PRT conducts fire rescue training

Story and photos by AF Senior Airman Julianne Showalter 

 

KHOST PROVINCE – A firefighter team member listens to instructions on how to use a rescue saw, June 19. The saw is used for cutting through masonry and metal objects such as buildings and cars. 

A Khost PRT interpreter explains how to power up the rescue saw. The Khost firefighting team was given familiarization training on the saw, and then practiced how to cut through a metal pipe. 

Army Cpl. Robert Frayvolt, Khost PRT infantryman, instructs Afghan firefighters.  Cpl. Frayvolt has been a volunteer fireman for 6 years at Station 41 in Derry, Pa. 

-30-

RC-East in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

200 local leaders attend tribal affairs meeting in Sharana

Written by Army 1st Lt. R.J. Peek

 

Key leaders of the Paktika Provincial govt attended a tribal affairs meeting sponsored by both Provincial Gov. Samim, and the Zahir Katawazay dir. of tribal affairs, in Sharana, June 20. The general theme of the meeting was that all Afghans must work together for the greater good of Paktika Prov. and Afghanistan. 

PAKTIKA PROVINCE – Army 1st Lt. Terrance Avery, 3rd Bn, 187th Inf Regt plans officer, said that roughly 200 GoA officials, district leaders, and village elders representing Paktika Prov. attended.

In his opening remarks, Samim summarized the Kabul peace jirga by saying that Afghan Pres. Karzai aims to unify the tribes against the insurgent forces, in an effort to lead them to a peace talk.  The people of Afghanistan must work together against their common enemy, Samim added.  Samim also reminded the people of the future possibilities for progress, saying that “the present is a golden chance, don’t lose it.”

Others in attendance spoke about security challenges, as well as the obstacles insurgents place in the way of progress in Paktika, such as denying children access to formal education.
“The Koran says to educate boys and girls, yet the Taliban burn schools,” said Paktika Prov. Education Dir. Ehsan Ullah. “They don’t know the Koran or Mohammed.”

Ullah further emphasized that the insurgent force’s refusal to allow Afghans to receive an education goes against Islamic traditions.  He added that it's important to educate the children. “Those who do not want education, namely the insurgents, are the infidels,” said Ullah. 

While the elders will return to their respective villages, and share the results of this meeting with their neighbors, the provincial govt will look forward to recognizing a more unified effort to resist the insurgents, and to continue developing Paktika, Samim said.

-30-

RC-East in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Top Polish officials visit troops in Ghazni

Written by Justyna Bajer, Ghazni PRT

Polish Army Gen. Przekwas, TF White Eagle cmdr, invites Poland’s interim president, Bronisław Komorowski, to dine at FOB Ghazni, June 21.  During the lunch, the interim president and other top Polish officials ate lunch with the troops, and enjoyed a group conversation. (Photos by Polish Combat Camera Adam Roik)

GHAZNI PROVINCE – Poland’s highest-ranking officials rallied more than 100 troops, acknowledging their sacrifices and assuring them of the significance of their assignments. “This mission is one of the most important instruments of my foreign policy,” said Radosław Sikorski, at helm of Polish foreign affairs. “Now Poland is a big-league member of NATO, with a substantial say in its affairs.”

U.S. Army Maj. Gen. John Campbell, Combined Joint TF 101 and RC-East cmdr, also visited the FOB, which falls under his command.  

Poland currently has more than 2,500 troops in Afghanistan, the 7th largest contingent in the NATO-led force, up from 1,600 in the previous year.

-30-

IRAQI STORIES:

373rd CSSB Hosts Run/walk for Wounded Warriors

Story by Spc. Gaelen Lowers

Soldiers and civilians at Camp Liberty run and walk 5-Km during the 1st ever Iraq Impact A Hero Shadow Run/Walk, June 6. The run was dedicated to the wounded warriors of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. 

VICTORY BASE COMPLEX – “Imagine waking up every day without one or more of your limbs, with severe burns, or even being paralyzed. For hundreds of War on Terror wounded veterans, these new physical realities will be with them for the rest of their lives.”

These words are from the Web site of "Impact A Hero," a non-partisan org., that provides emotional and financial support to wounded warriors from the Iraq and Afghanistan wars.

Sugar Land, Texas has hosted a 5K Run/Walk/Wheel for the past 6 years to raise money and awareness for "Impact A Hero."  People from all walks of life travel from across the country to participate in the event, including some of the wounded warriors whom they're trying to help. Lt. Col. Giulia Giacoppe, cmdr of the 373rd CSSB, 3rd Sust Bde, 13th ESC has participated in this event for the past 3 years. This year, her unit is deployed to Iraq, so instead of missing the event back home, she brought it to Iraq.

“It helps build awareness for our wounded Soldiers coming home, who don't always get the support that they need,” said Giacoppe.  “It helps them get back into the community, puts needed finances in their hands, and also provides emotional support and mentorship for them to get back on their feet.”

The shadow run held at Camp Liberty, attracted a great turnout.  Almost 1,000 people turned out for the event, which is, said Giacoppe, far more than was anticipated.

“When most people think of a hero, they think of a Soldier, and that's a good thing,” said Spc. Joshua Tankersley, a 373rd CSSB chaplain’s asst, event coordinator. “However, most people don't realize the ultimate sacrifice that many of these Soldiers make every day. We hope that this shadow run will raise money and awareness for these Soldiers.  It's because of their sacrifices that we have the freedoms that we have today.”

Soldiers and civilians participating in the shadow run at Camp Liberty were encouraged to go online and make donations to the Impact A Hero fund.  Last year, the Impact A Hero 5K Run/Walk/Wheel in Sugar Land raised $165,000. This year they raised more than $200,000, according to their Web site.  For more info about Impact A Hero and their events, visit www.impactahero.com.

-30-

Blackanthem Military News

Operation Pencil Giver

By Sgt 1st Class Steven Johnson

Spc. Breanna Carder, a movement specialist with the 969th Transportation Det. (Movement Control), 14th Transportation Bn (Movement Control), 13th ESC helps to carry boxes of school supplies to a local elementary school, May 19 in Mosul, as part of Op Pencil Giver. 

( Army photos by Spc. Michael Snook)

MOSUL - Op Pencil Giver was the brainchild of Capt. Christopher Pruitt, cmdr of the 969th, the unit's family readiness group, and Pruitt's sons Jack and Sam.  During a visit with Jack's school principal to discuss Pruitt's upcoming deployment, the discussion turned to the potential dangers of the mission.  Jack overheard the conversation and decided he wanted to help, Pruitt said. "This was his way of doing something to help keep his dad safe," Pruitt said.

The idea turned into a campaign involving the Illinois' Kirkwood School District, and various youth orgs.  Supplies started arriving in early November 2009 and continued to arrive until February, he said.

The goal of collecting 50 boxes of supplies was exceeded, with a total of 126 boxes being donated, as the community rallied in support of the unit and its mission.  Spc. Michael Snook, Breanna Carder, and Miranda Mossberger, all movement specialists with the 969th, along with Soldiers from the 278th ACR, 13th ESC, and local IP distributed the supplies to more than 100 children from 2 elementary schools.

"This was unique opportunity to get out and experience the culture, and meet some of the people that we're here to help," Snook said. "It was great just going out there and being able to see the people, doing something that benefits somebody, and actually have hands on and are involved," he said. 

Lt. Col. Lee Porterfield, dep. cmdr of the Security Transition Team, 2nd BCT, 3rd ID, said that he works closely with the IP leadership, to improve law enforcement functions such as investigative techniques, collection of physical evidence and processing crime scenes. 

"Part of what we're doing today is helping to improve the public image of the local IP by helping them to get more involved in the community, and assist in developing a more trusting relationship," he said. "Today was a step in the right direction."

Carder said this was a chance for her and Mossberger to see a different side of what goes on outside their world of tracking cargo shipments around Iraq. "It felt really good to interact with the kids; just seeing their faces light up and knowing they were going to have stuff for the following school year,' she said.

Mossberger said it was gratifying to be a part of the op because, while her and Carder move equipment and vehicles all day, the never see the end result. This time they were able to see the impact of a contribution to the welfare and education of children.

Soldiers with the 969th hand out school supplies.

-30-

USF-I

Tigris bridge span will help farmers, trade

Story and photo by Staff Sgt. Daniel Yarnall

Sgt. Nathan Lehman, 250th Engrs, Multi-Role Bridge Co, Conn. Army NG, works on constructing a Mabey Johnson Panel Bridge across the Tigris River near Salman Pak, June 2. 

BAGHDAD – As U.S. and Iraqi forces secure the area, the 250th is working night and day to construct what’s called a Mabey Johnson Panel Bridge across the storied waterway.  Capt. Chuck Taylor, cmdr, is overseeing the op.  His troops are accomplishing the project by moving equipment into place during the day, and then performing the majority of construction at night to escape the sun’s heat.

Taylor explained that the bridge is important in this location, because the only other way for residents to get to the town of Salman Pak is to take a 3-hour detour to the next crossing.

“The Salman Pak area has really grown as far as farms and commerce,” Taylor said. “Having this bridge in place allows the residents and farmers on this shore to take their produce to town, sell their product and purchase the things that they need.”

Pfc. Andrea Reynolds, an equipment operator with the engrs, said she is proud of the work she and her unit are doing. “It’s amazing, watching everyone and seeing what they can do,” said Reynolds. “I've never seen anything like this.  Watching everyone work together to make something that is going to make the local population have a better life is really rewarding.”

Members of the IA who worked with the engrs were also impressed by the speed of the project. “They keep working; night and day, they just keep going,” said IA Pvt. Najem.

“I'm very amazed with how the U.S. Soldiers are constructing the bridge, and how they're doing it so fast,” said IA Pvt. Kareemn, an IA engr. “There must be no better way to build a bridge.”

-30-

USF-I

Four suspected AQI criminal associates arrested 

BAGHDAD - ISF arrested 4 suspected AQI criminal assocs during 2 separate joint security ops in northern Iraq, June 23.  Approx 108 km NE of Baghdad, ISF and U.S. advisors searched several buildings for a suspected AQI leader believed to be responsible for attacks on ISF and CF.  Info and evidence gathered at the scene led Iraqi forces to identify and arrest 2 suspected AQI criminal assocs.

During another op approx 90km SW of Mosul, ISF and U.S. advisors searched a building for a suspected AQI leader allegedly responsible for the terrorist org's ops.  Info and evidence gathered at the scene led Iraqi forces to identify and arrest 2 suspected AQI criminal assocs.

-30-

flickr

My Shadow

(Army photo by Spc. Mike MacLeod) 

Army Pfc. Matthew Allen, an infantryman with Co C, 1st Bn, 504th PIR, 1st Advise and Assist Bde, 82nd AD, shares a special moment with a boy in Hasa, while his co. cmdr visits a medical engagement, hosted by the IA, June 12, 2010. 

-30-

Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/6-23

Dear Interested Reader,

1-32 Cav ensures education for the young.  Army Signal Corps celebrates 150 years.  Omna district center in Paktika prov. gets resupplied.  Op. Updates, June 18, 19.

Iraq:  156th Inf Regt accepts new mission at JBB.  278th medic treats local child.  QM Soldiers erect flagpole, exercise traditions at JBB.  USACE engrs help young rabies victim. TF Hammerhead celebrates 2 "millionth" gallon pumped at COB Speicher.

Joanna

_____________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

RC-East in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

1-32 Cavalry ensures education for the young

Story and photos by Army Spc. Albert Kelley

KUNAR PROVINCE –  Army Spc. Andrew Dickerson, a radio telephone operator with 1st Plt, Charlie Troop, 1st Bn, 32nd Cav Regt, TF Bandit, greets arriving school children in the Shamshir village, June 14.  Soldiers from FOB Bostick visit the school weekly to ensure the students and teachers are safe, and have basic school supplies. 

 

Young Afghan students eagerly display their class work through a screened window.  

-30-

RC-East in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

U.S. Army Signal Corps celebrates 150 years

Written by Army Sgt. Grant Matthes

Runners at Bagram Airfield take off to compete in a 5-km race, held to celebrate the 150th birthday of the Army Signal Corps, June 21. (Photos by Army Sgt. Scott Davis)

BAGRAM AIRFIELD – Approx 250 servicemembers and civilians participated in the run.  Gold, silver and bronze medals with the signal corps crest inscribed on the back were given to the runners who finished 1st, 2nd and 3rd.

The luncheon commemorating the Signal Corps’ anniversary was used as a forum to educate attendees on its history.  “They can talk about us, but they can’t talk without us,” said Lt. Col. Joseph Hilfiker, Combined Joint TF-101 CJ6 (communications) Dir.

The Signal Corps’ mission is to provide and manage communications and info systems support for the command and control of combined armed forces.  From the Civil War to present day, the corps has provided all forms of communication between military forces.  “It’s good to know that what we've been doing for 150 years, we're still contributing,” said Spc. Nekia Reese, a CJTF-101 cable installer and maintainer. 

Following tradition, a cake was cut by the oldest and youngest service members attending the luncheon.  Command Sgt. Maj. Timothy Vester, HHB, 101st AD, command sgt maj, and Pfc. Raphael Rush, a hub node mgr., got the honor.

“It’s a good time to celebrate the good things we do, and to contribute to the fight in Afghanistan,” said Sgt. 1st Class Alex Pitts, hub node plt sgt. 

 

1st Lt. Samuel Morse, a Soldier with Alpha Co, 1st Sqdrn, 172nd Cav Regt, receives a gold medal for being the first male to finish the five-km race. Morse finished with a time of 16:40. 

Two Soldiers from Co C, 101st HHB, 101st AD, Pfc. Joseph Coine, and Spc. Tiere Williams, along with “signaleers” across Bagram Airfield, wait to participate in the race.

Capt. Mollie Keith, XO for TF Biometrics, looks back at the competition before crossing the finish line.  Keith won 1st place for the females, with a total time of 23:10. 

-30-

RC-East in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

ANP and Coalition forces resupply Omna District Center

Written by Army 1st Lt. R.J. Peek

 

ANP officers, along with Soldiers with 3rd Bn, 187th Inf Regt, 3rd BCT, test fire a newly-emplaced heavy machine gun during a resupply op to the Omna District Center, June 18. 

PAKTIKA PROVINCE – The op provided food, ammo, weapons, fire support, and a new group of policemen to help secure the district center.  "The Omna District Center is in a difficult position to secure, since it's in a mountain plateau in a sparsely populated area," said Shahkhel Darwish, Omna AUP Cmdr.  "Insurgents can attack the compound with indirect fire from the hills while remaining unseen," he added.

The Paktika Provincial Police Cmdr, Brig. Gen. Khan, coordinated with TF Iron Rakkasan to help to resolve the security issues.  Together, they brought a heavy machine gun and placed it into a defensive position.  

"While dropping off the equipment and supplies, insurgents called the AUP over the radio and challenged them.  In response, CF and the AUP took defensive fighting positions to deter insurgents from attacking in the future," said Darwish.

While most of the outgoing police loaded into the CH-47 Chinook helicopters to fly back to Sharana, 30 officers remained to conduct a 6-hour dismounted patrol to the Sharana Police Station.  "This patrol identified an alternate means of re-supplying the district center," said Army 1st Lt. Payton Holtz, plt leader.

"The new police officers in the Omna District Center are eager to serve.  They're happy to have a job, and are committed to protecting the people of Afghanistan and fighting insurgents," said Khan.

Afghan/Soldiers with 3rd Bn, prepare to fire mortar rounds at a suspected insurgent facility from the Omna District Center.

-30-

Blackanthem Military News

Operational Update, June 19

By ISAF Joint Command - Afghanistan

KUNDUZ PROVINCE - An Afghan-ISAF killed a Taliban sub-cmdr along with a number of insurgents at a compound in Chahar Darah district, June 18.  Mullah Abdul Razaq was responsible for moving suicide operatives throughout the eastern part of Kunduz prov., and was the Taliban military cmdr in Talaqwa Village.  ANP in Kunduz confirmed the death.  According to multiple intel reports, Razaq is suspected of being involved in an IED attack that killed 2 American soldiers in the vicinity of Isa Khan, June 16.

The SECFOR searched a compound east of Chahar Darrehchi, Chahar Darah district, where they were fired upon by individuals armed with automatic weapons and grenades. The combined force returned fire and secured the compound.

During the search a civilian man came out of his home and told Afghan and CF that the Taliban use the road near the compound daily, and that they frequently stay in the mosque behind his home. The Taliban continue to use mosques as safe havens and weapons storage sites, knowing that int'l forces are not allowed to enter.  A significant amount of automatic weapons, mags full of ammo, grenades and an RPG launcher with rounds were found on site.

ZABUL PROVINCE - A separate Afghan-ISAF captured a Taliban cmdr and several suspected insurgents June 18. The cmdr is linked to IED attacks along the road connecting Zabul to Kabul.  The SECFOR searched a series of compounds in a remote area of Shah Joy district, after receiving intel reports on the Taliban cmdr's whereabouts.

HELMAND PROVINCE - Another Afghan-ISAF killed a suspected insurgent, detained several other suspected insurgents, and found IED material while pursuing a senior Taliban cmdr., June 18.

As the SECFOR approached a compound in Lashkar Gah district, they immediately received fire from an individual outside the compound. The combined force returned fire killing him.  After securing the compound, the assault force found 7 containers of home-made explosives, multiple initiators, and numerous amounts of materials for making IEDs. 

LOGAN PROVINCE - A separate Afghan-ISAF detained several suspected insurgents while pursuing a Taliban shadow gov., responsible for attacks against CF, June 18.  The SECFOR searched a series of compounds south of Karizeh Za'faran.  During the search the joint force found a 25 Kilogram bag of ammonium nitrate, which is commonly used in the manufacture of the homemade explosives often found in IEDs, and is banned by the GoA.  While preparing to depart the area, the joint force was fired on by an individual; returned fire killing him.

BADGHIS PROVINCE - ANA Commandos assisted by U.S. Special Ops Forces killed a number of insurgents, while searching for an insurgent cmdr, June 17. 
The Afghan-led force was in the village of Burrida, Morghab district, when they were attacked by a group of insurgents.

The insurgents engaged the force with heavy small-arms, machine gun and RPG fire from fortified positions. The partnered force returned fire, and called in a precision airstrike killing many of the insurgents.

-30-

Blackanthem Military News

Operational Update, June 18

By ISAF Joint Command - Afghanistan

ZABUL PROVINCE - An Afghan-ISAF captured a Taliban cmdr, June 17.  The cmdr is responsible for coordinating and assisting in attacks against Afghan and int'l forces, and has also been involved in the procurement and emplacement of IEDs.  The suspect was detained while the SECFOR searched a compound in the village of Ja'far-e Olya in Shah Joy district.

KANDAHAR PROVINCE - A separate Afghan-ISAF detained 2 suspected insurgents, June 17, while pursuing a Taliban sub-cmdr responsible for coordinating IED attacks and ambushes against CF in Arghandab district.  The combined SECFOR searched a number of compounds west of Senjaray, Zhari district.

-30-

IRAQI STORIES:

Blackanthem Military News

3rd Bn., 156th Inf. Regt. accepts new mission 

Story and photo by Sgt. Nathaniel Orphey

Soldiers with A Co, 3rd Bn, 156th Inf Regt, 256th IBCT, 13th ESC mount lights on a MRAP vehicle at Al Asad Air Base.

JOINT BASE BALAD - Soldiers with 3rd Bn will accept a new mission during their deployment.  The "Bayou Bandits," HQ in Lake Charles, La., were originally tasked with providing security to convoys, transporting equipment and supplies to assist in the upcoming responsible drawdown of U.S. troops and equipment from Iraq.

In their new mission with the 3rd Sust Bde out of Ft. Stewart, Ga., the bn will continue to provide convoy security teams,  also provide quick reaction forces, and security for contracted vehicle recovery teams.  In addition, B Co has been tasked with providing support for special ops units located throughout Iraq.

"Our mission hasn't really changed," said Master Sgt. Orise Cormier, ops sgt with 3rd Bn.  "It's grown. The main change is that we're going to be running a lot more missions to more places than we were while at Al Asad."

The new mission requires the bn to take charge of what was formerly a bde-size mission. "This'll be a challenging new task for us, but our Soldiers have trained hard, and are more than capable of accomplishing the mission that's been given to us." said Command Sgt. Maj. Stephen Hickman, command sgt maj. 

To help support its new missions, the "Bandits" have been assigned an additional company from the 256th. G Co, 199th BSB, permanently attached to 1st Bn., 141st FAR, will relocate to provide additional convoy SECFOR.  The companies of 3rd Bn., 156th Inf. Regt. will be conducting their new missions from different bases across Iraq.

"Having units work out of multiple locations is not a new experience for us." said Lt. Col. David Gooch, cmdr of 3rd Bn., 156th Inf. Regt. "Our bn is made up of units located at 9 different cities across western Louisiana, and we have quite a bit of experience operating out of separate communities, in support of state missions."

-30-

Blackanthem Military News

278th ACR medic treats local child

Story and photos by Sgt. Michael Carden 

Sgt. Diana McClure, a medic with HHT, RTS, 278th ACR, 13th ESC, clears a child's airway, June 16, during a UN inspection mission in Baghdad. 

BAGHDAD - Sgt. Diana McClure provided emergency care to an Iraqi child who had a seizure at a Returnee Assistance Center.  "My adrenalin levels just shot up as soon as I saw him, especially with it being a child," she said.  "I have 2 at home myself, and you just can't turn away from that."
   
To begin treatment, McClure ensured the child's airway was clear, and then made sure that the boy was positioned on his side to help keep any fluid accumulations from blocking his throat.  At one point, secretions built up in the child's throat and she had to manually remove them, she said.

McClure directed other Soldiers to use cool water on the child's neck and face to bring the child's temperature down.  "He probably had a past experience of seizures, but there was a lot of excitement with us being there and everything going on," McClure said. "He was running around and getting extremely hot.  I'm sure that contributed to it."
   
McClure said she continued to monitor the child's vital signs while waiting for him to become lucid, making sure there wasn't any lack of oxygen, which could cause brain damage.  While McClure treated the child, other Soldiers continued to monitor the area with IP to keep the scene safe.
   
"The IPs came over and started helping out," said Staff Sgt. Charles Smith, shift leader with HHT. "They were clearing out people, getting them away."
   
Even with attention on the medical emergency, the Soldiers kept to the mission of ensuring security to the U.N. inspectors at the Returnee Assistance Center. "To see what we rehearsed, what we've been trained on to see, and that everyone reacted accordingly, makes me feel good to know that when something does happen, everyone's going to do the right thing," Smith said.
   
McClure said the father seemed confused by the crowd around his child at first, but after the interpreter explained what was going on, he was relieved that the U.S. service members were helping.

Sgt. McClure provides medical care to a child having a seizure.

-30-

Blackanthem Military News

QM Soldiers erect flagpole, exercise traditions

By 1st Lt. Herbert Karg

Sgt. Jonathan Rosenzweig (left), info mgt officer with the 716th Quartermaster Co., 13th CSSB, 3rd Sust Bde, 13th ESC, raises the American flag, while Spc. Dartanyun Harvey, an amnesty yard container team member salutes, June 20.

JOINT BASE BALAD - Soldiers with the co. will be able to send the flags home to their families with a certificate stating it was flown in Iraq.  "We've wanted to get a flag pole since we first arrived in Iraq back in Nov.," said Capt. James Beck, cmdr.  "Now that we have one, we're trying to fly a different flag every day, and also give our Soldiers the chance to raise and lower the flag.  Many of them have not."

"It's a great honor and privilege to be able to fly the Flag of the U.S. over Iraq," said Spc. Alvin Garcia, charge of quarters clerk.  "I'm thankful and proud that I've  gotten the chance to send the colors up the flagpole," he said. 

-30-

USF-I

June 22, 2010

USACE engineers step up to help young rabies victim

By Mike Scheck

Gulf Region District

Army nurses pose with an Iraq boy recently treated for rabies at the Army Tactical Medical Center (TMC) on COB Tallil.  Also pictured are John Morgan, a construction rep at the Adder office, and Maj. Justin Tyree, officer-in-charge of the Adder Resident Office, both instrumental at arranging treatment at the facility for the Iraq boy.  The staff at the TMC was able to administer the rabies vaccine to the Iraqi youth after his family was unable to locate the vaccine locally. 

NASIRIYAH - The USACE is normally in the business of saving lives through its construction efforts in building hospitals and medical clinics in Iraq. To date, the Corps has served as the construction mgt partner for 133 new healthcare centers and 53 hospital renovations. However, a young boy from Nasiriyah is making a complete recovery from a disease that's all but eradicated in the U.S., thanks to the efforts of engrs from the Corps' Adder Resident Office.

The 11-year-old boy was bitten by a rabid dog near one of the Adder office's project sites.  His family spent a week trying to track down the rabies vaccine in the Nasiriyah and Basra health depts.

Al Dujailly says the boy's family was very appreciative of the quick response by the Adder hospital staff. "The medical staff made the process very easy on the boy," Al Dujailly said. "Their staff members' accurate record keeping of the required immunizations will ensure he gets the proper treatment for the disease. They've saved his life."

In the rural and urban areas everywhere in Iraq, you can't help but notice the large stray dog population. There are dogs near construction project sites, and strays can be seen lying in the center median of major roadways.  However, unlike in more developed countries that require dogs to be vaccinated against rabies, Iraq is in the early stages of a country-wide vaccination program for this deadly disease.

There were more than 17,000 dog bites and 22 reported rabies virus related deaths in Iraq in 2007. The Iraqi Veterinary Services has initiated an aggressive program of vaccination, animal control, post exposure control, and training to prevent the spread of rabies in Iraq.

-30-

Blackanthem Military News

TF Hammerhead celebrates two 'millionth' gallon pumped

By Staff Sgt. Mike Alberts

COB SPEICHER - Soldiers of Co E, 3-25 General Support Aviation Bn, TF Hammerhead, rally behind a "Two Million Gallons" pumped ribbon, to celebrate TF Hammerhead's benchmark accomplishment at COB Speicher, near Tikrit, June 16.  TF Hammerhead operates cold fuel ops at COB Speicher, and hot fuel Forward Arming and Refueling Point ops at COB Warhorse in Diyala Prov. The two millionth gallon of fuel was issued to an OH-58 Kiowa Warrior helicopter at COB Warhorse, June 11. 

 

-30-

Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan/Iraq Update/6-22

Dear Interested Reader,

Khost PRT honored at gov's. home.  Nangahar PRT delivers malaria supplies.  Khost PRT teaches future engrs.  Bamyan U. hosts media training.  Taliban cmdr. captured in Zabul prov.; suspected insurgents arrested in Kandahar.  Key leader engagement at Camp Phoenix.

Iraq:  IA trains o M16 rifle.  Tenn. father-son team at COB Speicher, where TF Marne Soldier overcomes past, excels as mechanic.  Suspected AQI member, criminal assocs. arrested in 2 ops.

Joanna

________________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

RC-East in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Khost PRT honored at governor’s celebration

Story and photos by AF Senior Airman Julianne  Showalter

KHOST PROVINCE –  Navy Cmdr. Willie Billingslea, Khost PRT cmdr, and Abdul  Naeemi, Khost Prov. Gov., listen to traditional Afghan music during an outdoor celebration held at the governor’s house, June 16.  Cmdr Billingslea was seated to the right of the provincial gov., which is a position of honor, according to the Pashtunwali code. This demonstrates the bond between the Khost provincial govt and CF. 

Key members of the Khost govt, U.S. military, and friends gathered for an outdoor celebration. The evening included live music, traditional dancing and a feast. Gov.  Naeemi invited leaders from the Khost PRT as his honored guests to the event. 

Navy Cmdr. Willie Billingslea and Abdul Naeemi talk while guests take part in traditional Afghan Attan dancing. The event was a culmination to a Khost provincial governance summit held earlier in the day.

Guests smile and laugh as they dance.  Attan dancing originates in Pashtun regions of the country, and is now the national dance of Afghanistan. 

-30-

RC-East in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

PRT delivers malaria supplies to province

Written by AF Capt Mary Danner-Jones 

 

Nangarhar PRT and Afghan officials unload malaria prevention and treatment equipment, and supplies at the Nangarhar Malaria Control Center in Jalalabad, June 15. 

(Photo by AF Tech. Sgt. John Barton)

NANGARHAR PROVINCE – The goal of the program is a sustainable malaria prevention and treatment plan in Nangarhar province that will become a pilot program for other provinces throughout Afghanistan, said Air Force 1st Lt. Jason Baker, Nangarhar PRT senior medical officer.

The malaria program consists of 2 elements:  education and equipment.  The curriculum was designed to teach Afghans the fundamentals of malaria control, according to AF 1st Lt. Jason Baker, Nangarhar PRT senior medical officer. This includes finding mosquito habitats and conditions favorable for mosquitoes, identifying mosquito species more likely to transmit the disease, changing the environment so it does not attract as many mosquitoes, and conducting basic pest control.

Some of the equipment provided to the Ministry of Public Health included backpack hand and motorized sprayers, insecticide, light traps, and mosquito dissecting equipment for species identification.  Training on how to use the equipment was also provided.

With the help of the Nangarhar PRT, the program was designed to be run by Afghans for Afghans.  The agreement was for the Ministry of Public Health to provide Afghan professionals who would receive the malaria equipment training and train other Afghans, ultimately making it a self-sufficient program for Afghanistan, Baker said.

Malaria is still one of the leading causes of illness and death in Afghanistan.  The program aids in reducing the mosquito population and controlling malaria, which is very helpful to the Afghan people, Baker said. 

-30-

RC-East in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Passing on knowledge to future engineers 

Story and photos by AF Senior Airman Julianne Showalter

 

Dr. Gul Nuwaz, Sheikh Zayed University vice chancellor, hands out a graduation certificate, June 10.  Seventeen students from the University graduated the 12-week construction engineering course, taught by USACE Bruce Pastorini, Khost PRT engr. (Photo by U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Julianne M. Showalter, Khost PRT Public Affairs Office)

KHOST PROVINCE –  The course, taught by the Khost PRT, is a senior elective for engineering students and is broken up into 3 areas:  an overview of engineering studies, project delivery, and quality mgt quality verification, said USACE engr Bruce Pastorini, who assists the Khost PRT.

In the future, the class will be taught solely by 4 Afghan engrs who worked with Pastorini during the course.  "By teaching these young men critical engineering skills, it will further the development of Khost prov., as well as the other provs of Afghanistan," said Pastorini.

“I challenge you to use what you’ve learned to better this country,” said Dr. Gul Nuwaz, Sheikh Zayed University vice chancellor, during the graduation ceremony.

“I really enjoyed doing this, sharing what I know, and comparing the instructor’s experiences with my own.  I highly respect these guys because of the risks they take every day to educate the next generation of engrs,” said Pastorini, referencing the men who worked with him.

Upon completion of this course, the students will have a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and move into the work force.  “At this point they can go into any job as a beginning engr for the PRT or CF, and be as good as or better than engrs out there now,” said Pastorini.

Dr. Gul Nuwaz, Sheikh Zayed University vice chancellor, reads out names of students graduating.

Students from Sheikh Zayed University.

-30-

RC-East in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Bamyan University hosts media training

Story and photos by Mahtab Farid, U.S. State Dept

BAMYAN PROVINCE - A group of professional journalists attend a media workshop at the U.S. Lincoln Center at Bamyan University, June 4, to learn about the media roundtables and social media.  Mahtab Farid, a public diplomacy officer with the U.S. State Dept, taught the class using a number of mock roundtables with special guests, including the Gov. of Bamyan’s spokesperson, and directors of media orgs.  During the 2nd session of the class, reporters learned how to use their blog to post their stories, and worked on enhancing the overall design of the weblogs. 

A group of young, aspiring, female journalists attended a 1-day media workshop taught by Mahtab Farid.   During the workshop, students learned about the basics of journalism and interviewing skills.  The dir. of Bamyan Radio, Ali Erfan visited the workshop with his senior reporter, to help the class during the mock interviews.  Students had a chance to practice interviews in front of the class, and were given feedback on their progress.  As part of the hands-on training, the students were invited by Erfan to visit the radio station, to practice their voice and record some programming for the women of Afghanistan. 

-30-

DVIDS

Key Leader Engagement at Camp Phoenix 

(U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Rebecca Linder)   

CAMP PHOENIX - TF Rushmore cmdr, Army Brig. Gen. Theodore Johnson, left, and 1st Lt. Brent Nelson listen to a Kabul area village elder, during a conference, June 17.  The conference was held to acquaint village leaders with the new incoming command for the area.  

Brig. Gen. Johnson, left, and TF Cyclone cmdr, Brig. Gen. Lonnie Culver, meet with a Kabul area village elder, Hajab Gull. 

Brig. Gen. Johnson, bids farewell to Kabul area village elder, Hajab Gull, after a conference at Camp Phoenix.   

-30-

Office of the Secretary of Defense Public Affairs 

Combined Patrol Captures Taliban Commander

ZABUL PROVINCE - An Afghan-ISAF captured a Taliban cmdr., June 17, military officials reported. The cmdr is responsible for coordinating and assisting in attacks against Afghan and int'l forces, and has also been involved in the procurement and emplacement of roadside bombs, officials said. The suspect was detained while the SECFOR searched a compound in the prov's Shah Joy district. 

KANDAHAR PROVINCE - A separate Afghan-ISAF detained 2 suspected insurgents June 16, while pursuing a Taliban sub-cmdr responsible for coordinating roadside-bomb attacks and ambushes against CF in the prov's Arghandab district. 

-30-

RC-East in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Afghan police learn life saving skills

Story and photos by Army Capt. John Huey

 

PARWAN PROVINCE – Sgt. 1st Class Jeremy Neskey, a medic assigned to the 86th BSTB, 86th IBCT demonstrates the proper way to assess a casualty during an immediate first-aid course for ANP officers at the Operational Command Center – Provincial in Charikar, June 15.  ANP officers received a Combat Life Saver medical kit at the conclusion of the 5-hour course. 

-30-

IRAQI STORIES:

DVIDS

IA Trains on M16 Rifle

Story and photo by Spc. Roland Hale

First Sgt. Devin Horsley, a Soldier with the CAB, 1st ID, walks an IA soldier through the process of "zeroing" his M16 rifle.  Soldiers from the CAB held weapons training for IA soldiers on Camp Taji, June 15, as part of the IA's transition from the Soviet-era AK-47 assault rifle, to the M16.

BAGHDAD – The transition to the M16 is not based solely on the weapons capability.  As the rifles are issued to Iraqi soldiers, they'll be registered individually – a measure intended to reduce the number of American weapons being acquired by insurgents. 

The new M16s will also update the IA’s arsenal, as many of their AK-47s are in varying states of disrepair, military officials said.  On Camp Taji it was all smiles from the Iraqi troops, as the U.S. Soldiers walked them through the basics of firing the M16. 

“For their first time, they shot very well – even compared to some U.S. Soldiers,” said Sgt. Kevin Averre, the NCO-in-charge of the training.  Averre is assigned to the CAB, serving as a battle NCO in the bde’s tactical ops center. 

In 2003, Averre served with ISF as an infantryman assigned to the 4th ID. “Even in 2003 they spoke very highly of the M16’s accuracy,” said Averre. 

The training focused primarily on “zeroing” the weapons, a process by which firers adjust the weapon’s sights to align with their eyesight. The Iraqi soldiers also received instruction on weapons maintenance, something that was seldom necessary with the durable AK-47. 

While the IA has already received thousands of weapons in accordance with the proposed one-for-one swap of AK-47 for M16, receipt of the weapons is prioritized by necessity. Many Iraqi soldiers on Camp Taji do not use M16s, and as the weapons continue to arrive, U.S. units like the CAB will remain actively engaged in the training of the IA.  

Sgt. Kevin Averre, a Soldier with the CAB, demonstrates a firing position to IA soldiers.  

-30-

DVIDS

Tennessee father-son team at COB Speicher

Story by Spc. Cassandra Monroe

Maj. Bobbie Sprouse, XO for 3rd Sqdrn, 278th ACR, Tenn. Army NG, relaxes with his son, Sgt. Stephen Sprouse, a cav scout with 3/278 ACR, during a mission in Taji.    

COB SPEICHER -- For some of the Tenn. NG, family love within a unit reaches beyond camaraderie, because they’re actually family.  Many of the guardsmen with 3rd Sqdrn are deployed with family members.

Maj. Bobbie Sprouse and Sgt. Stephen Sprouse are one of the many family members sharing a deployment together.  Originally, Sgt. Sprouse was not part of Maj. Sprouse’s unit. He transferred units after hearing 3rd Sqdrn was deploying, so he could serve with his father.

Although they work separate shifts, they still find ways to meet and spend quality time together.  Overall, both Sprouses agree that serving a deployment is an honorable experience, but serving one with a family member makes the experience a treasure. 

“It’s different, and it’s something that we can take back with us,” said Sgt. Sprouse. “How many people get to say that they went over to Iraq and came back … and they did it with their dad?”

-30-

DVIDS

TF Marne Soldier Overcomes Past, Excels As Mechanic

Story by Sgt. Johnathon Jobson

Working in tight quarters, Sgt. Orlando Boneshirt, a light-wheeled vehicle mechanic for HHC, Div Special Troops Bn, 3rd ID, tightens the retaining nut onto the mounting bolt, for the shock he and his team just replaced on a MRAP vehicle, June 12.  Even though he's a newly promoted sgt, Boneshirt has been performing a sgt's duties for over 6 months.

COB SPEICHER – Soldiers come from all walks of life. Sgt. Orlando Boneshirt, a light-wheeled vehicle mechanic, and St. Francis, S.D., native, did not have the easiest childhood, but has used his experiences to help him fuel his military career.

At a young age, Boneshirt was placed with a foster family on the Rosebud Indian Reservation in S. Dakota. There he was part of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe.
Boneshirt attended grade school in a 1-room schoolhouse that taught kindergarten through 8th grade.  When he reached the 7th grade, his foster parents moved him to Todd County Middle School, also on the reservation.

It was during his stay on the reservation that Boneshirt learned the basics of keeping equipment in good repair.  “As I was growing up with my foster family, we lived on a ranch,” Boneshirt said. “Working on the equipment was always interesting to me.  It helped steer me into what I do in the Army now.  I enjoyed helping out here and there when I could, and it;s something that I still enjoy doing.”

During the second half of his sophomore year, Boneshirt went to live with his mother, Mavis Boneshirt, and was enrolled at the St. Francis Indian School. Realizing that the family was not in the best financial condition, he dropped out of school, got his GED, and started working to help support his family. 

“At the time I had a lot of things going on in my life; trying to help take care of my family,” Boneshirt explained. “It was easier for me to just get my GED and start working to provide income for my family.”

After working for a few years to get his family into a better situation, and wanting to be able to do more with his life, Boneshirt joined Job Corps, and moved to their Kicking Horse training center in Ronan, Mont., to become a diesel engine mechanic.  During this time he also completed his high school requirements and received his diploma through the high school completion program.

“I was the 2nd or 3rd person in my family to actually get their high school diploma," Boneshirt related. “I would say that my teachers at Job Corps had the greatest impact on me out of all my schooling,” said Boneshirt. “They helped me grow up, and were supportive of what I decided to do.”

After graduation from the Job Corps training program, Boneshirt joined the Army as a generator mechanic, and later changed jobs to become a light-wheeled vehicle mechanic.  He was recently promoted to sgt in March, his performance as a Soldier has made a great impression on his leaders.

“Sgt. Boneshirt knows exactly what he's doing here in the motorpool, and how the systems work,” said Staff Sgt. Joseph Pate, the DSTB motor sgt, and Sgt. Boneshirt’s supervisor. “He actually knows more than most Soldiers at his rank, because of the school he's had in the past.  He's a really great Soldier, and I see him quickly becoming a staff sgt as soon as he's eligible.” 

Sgt. Boneshirt contemplates how he's going to reconnect the fuel-injector pump that he's replaced in a Humvee.  

-30-

June 20, 2010

ISF arrest suspected AQI member, alleged criminal associates

BAGHDAD - ISF arrested an AQI members and 4 alleged criminal assocs., during 2 joint security ops conducted in central and northern Iraq, June 20.  In southern Baghdad, ISF and U.S. advisors searched several buildings for a suspected AQI leader, who's believed to be involved in high profile VBIED attacks, and has ties to senior AQI leadership.  Info and evidence gathered at the scene led Iraqi forces to identify and arrest 2 suspected AQI criminal assocs.

During another op in east Mosul, ISF and U.S. advisors searched a building for a suspected AQI member who allegedly has ties to senior AQI leadership. Info and evidence gathered at the scene led Iraqi forces to identify and arrest the warranted individual and 2 suspected criminal assocs.

-30-

Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/6-21

Dear Interested Reader,

Strengthening the border in Kunar prov.  'Helldivers' provide direction for TF Knighthawk.  Mission brief and safe return at COP Nerkh.  Parwan PRT assesses projects.

Iraq:  Basketball game builds teamwork, relieves stress at FOB Warrior.  Combined forces instructed in combat lifesaving.  'Tomahawks,' Diyala PRT, chicken farmers team up.  Suspected AQI terrorist and criminal assocs. arrested in northern Iraq.

Joanna

_______________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

RC-East in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Strengthening the border

Story and photos by Army Spc. Albert Kelley

KUNAR PROVINCE – Army Sgt. Michael Lachapelle, 1st Plt, plt leader, Charlie Troop, 1st Bn, 32nd Cav Regt, TF Bandit, shakes hands with an Afghan Border Police (ABP) cmdr., during a visit to the Barikowt village, June 13.  Soldiers meet with local ABP several times a week, helping them continue to take a greater lead in providing security for the area. 

 

1st Lt. Josh Pearson, 1st Plt, platoon leader, is given a tour of an ABP station by the an ABP XO.

 

 

Army 1st Lt. Pearson conducts a key leader engagement. 

Sgt. Edgar Fierro, a forward observer, and Sgt. Michael Lachapelle, shake hands with a local Afghan. 

-30-

RC-East in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

‘Helldivers’ provide direction for TF Knighthawk

Written by 3rd CAB, TF Falcon, (photos by Warrant Officer Robert Renny)

 

Army Pfc. Sidney Brady, HHC, TF Knighthawk, 3rd CAB, TF Falcon, base lines computers to get them back up and running, June 11.

BAGRAM AIRFIELD – Deployed Soldiers can have a multitude of priorities at any given moment.  Between juggling work demands, scheduling times to conduct physical training, keeping track of online and correspondence courses, balancing finances and maintaining communication with family and friends back home, Soldiers in Afghanistan have their work cut out for them.

Luckily for the Soldiers of TF Knighthawk, the “Helldivers,” act as the nerve center supporting Soldiers, as they support the fight.  The company is made up of Soldiers from many different backgrounds including communications, supply, ops, and support. The Soldiers of HHC ensure that all the line companies have everything they need to successfully accomplish their missions.

 

“We do everything,” said Spc. Jacita Upshaw, a flight ops specialist. “We issue radios, we give them weather and we are the voice of the bn.  Since we are the ops office, everything goes through us. If you considered the TF as a human, then HHC would be the heart that beats and pumps the blood to the rest of the companies.” 

 

The company also operates the TF’s Tactical Op Center. The responsibilities of the TOC include knowing what's occurring on the battlefield, analyzing data, and planning and coordinating missions. “In an extremely dynamic and kinetic war, it's imperative to have real-time battle tracking, and constant communication with all line companies, as well as keeping the chain of command informed of all missions,” said Capt. Ryan Welch, co. cmdr. 

 

The Soldiers of HHC, not only support Soldiers with military matters, they also provide spiritual, safety and medical assistance. The chaplain supports Soldiers by providing spiritual support in the form of chapel services, bible studies and by offering a willing shoulder or a friendly ear to Soldiers. The safety and standardization officers constantly review missions, tactics, techniques and procedures in order to ensure mission success and Soldier safety. The task force’s flight surgeons say they take pride in ensuring each Soldier’s medical needs are met.

 

“The company provides dynamic support and guidance necessary for the line companies to be successful in combat, said Capt. Jeffrey Bess, asst ops officer. “Being a Helldiver is like being the head of an extremely large family,” said Bess.   "‘Helldivers’ are strong, assertive leaders who're not afraid to step up and take the fight to the enemy at a moment’s notice.  Perfection is our goal, excellence is our watchword; no mission is too great, and no task is too small.”

Sgt. 1st Class Kimberly Fawley, reviews flight hours for non-rated crew members. 

-30-

Joint Combat Camera Afghanistan

Mission Brief and a Safe Return

(Photos by Sgt. Derec Pierson)

COP NERKH - Army Sgt. 1st Class Koumphakan Singkhan, Plt Sgt, explains the upcoming mission to the U.S. and ANA soldiers at the sand table.  He's 3rd Plt sgt, Legion Co, 1-503rd Inf (Abn) assigned to 2-503rd Inf (Abn).

Staff Sgt. Ryan Meador, left, talks to his squad members Spc. Casey Nix, Pvt.'s Stephen Hannon and Joseph Green about the upcoming mission, and what their duties are going to be. 

Army Capt. James Siebert, Cmdr, explains the upcoming mission.

Soldiers listen to the upcoming mission brief given by the Co. Cmdr.

Sgt.'s Richard Braden and Matthew Giamanco discuss the upcoming mission. 

A puma arrives to drop off supplies, Wardak province, June 9. 

Pvt. Jeffrey Edelstein eats chow with his fellow soldiers in the small dining facility. 

Sgts. Matthew Giamanco and Richard Braden return from the mission to a nearby valley, June 10.

-30-

Joint Combat Camera Afghanistan

Training 

(Photo by Sgt. Derec Pierson)

FOB AIRBORNE -  Army Staff Sgt. Russell Martin, an ANSF cell trainer from HHC, 2-503rd Inf (Abn), teaches the Afghan Private SECFOR members about pre-combat checks and weapon safety, Wardak Province, June 7.   

-30-

RC-East in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Parwan PRT assesses projects

Story and photos by AF Senior Airman Jim Araos

PARWAN PROVINCE - Staff Sgt. Carl Holloway, with the Parwan PRT security element, stands guard during a Jabal-E-Saraj power plant assessment, June 15. The PRT’s engrs conducted this mission to collect info on the power plant, a water intake facility, and a girls’ school, which are currently under construction by the Afghan govt, with assistance from the PRT team. 

Army Capt. Sungmin Kim, Parwan PRT’s USACE engr; Gary Hinkle, USACE engr, and Navy Lt. j.g. Doug Jih, Parwan PRT engr, assess the Jabal-E-Saraj water intake facility.  

-30-

IRAQI STORIES:

DVIDS

Basketball Game builds teamwork, stress reliever

Story by Pfc. Jessica Luhrs

A basketball player, representing the Kirkuk 'Lions' Emergency Services unit, dunks on his 'Dragon' partners in Delta Co, 1st Bn, 30th Inf, 2nd BCT, 3rd ID, out of Fort Stewart, Ga., during a basketball game at the Mountain Warrior Gym, FOB Warrior, June 12. The 'Lions' and 'Dragons' use sports to build their teamwork and relieve the stress of the job. 

KIRKUK - When the players for the Iraqi Emergency Services Unit ‘Lions’ basketball team stepped onto the court for a friendly basketball game against their ‘Dragon’ partners, it was clear they already had the advantage over their ‘Battle Boar’ partners. 

To beat the ‘Dragons’ on their own court, leadership of the ‘Lions’ called some friends of the Iraqi Olympic basketball team, and other professional teams around Kirkuk to play.

“We [‘Lions’] told the ‘Dragons’ from the beginning that we would defeat them at basketball, just like we did at every other sport,” said Iraqi Col. Orhan Jumma, cmdr of 2nd Bn ESU.  The ESU has recently beaten their partners at all sports including ping-pong, wrestling, soccer and now basketball.

It isn’t about who wins or who loses; it’s about building a relationship that does not revolve around checkpoints and key leader engagements, said Capt. Gary Whidden, cmdr of the ‘Dragons,’ and a forward for the team.

Jumma agreed with his partner, saying building relationships is the most important.  "The ‘Lions’ and ‘Dragons’ were able to interact with each other and with civilians, which is vital," he continued.

Following the basketball game, the ‘Dragons’ awarded Orhan and his team a trophy and certificates for winning the game, then enjoyed a celebratory lunch.
Whidden ended the celebration by inviting his partners out for another competition.  “It's great to bring out the competition in the Soldiers, and we look forward to our next event.  Maybe we’ll find a sport we can beat the ESU at,” he joked. 

The 'Dragons' awarded Orhan and his team a trophy and certificates.  

-30-

DVIDS

Combined Forces Instructed in Combat Lifesaving 

Story by Sgt. Melissa Shaw

Staff Sgt. Douglas Whitney, Texas Army NG, instructs members of the Federal Police on how to properly lift a stretcher in the casualty evacuation portion of a Combat Life Saver (CLC) certification course. The class, held June 9th on Camp Prosperity, had a combined group of IFP and American Army Soldiers. Whitney is the medic for the 72nd IBCT, Joint Area Support Group-Central.

BAGHDAD - A CLS is a non-medic soldier with moderate emergency medical training, who is able to provide care at the same location where the injury was received.  Soldiers are trained to function as a CLS, secondary to their primary mission; undertaken only when the tactical situation permits. They're taught that returning fire and maintaining personal safety is paramount to providing medical care to a casualty.

Students were instructed by Staff Sgt. Douglas Whitney in various techniques to treat and stabilize injuries related to combat, including, but not limited to, blast injury, amputation, severe bleeding, penetrating chest injuries, simple airway mgt, and evacuation techniques. 

The Combat Lifesaver doctrine was developed as an effort to increase survivability in combat environments, where the combat medic may not be readily available. The CLS is not intended to take the place of medical personnel, but to slow deterioration of a wounded soldier's condition, until medical personnel arrive. It's considered a bridge between self aid or buddy aid, and the Combat Medic. 

The CLS bag has evolved quite a bit as a result of new advances in trauma mgt., and feedback from users in the field.  Due to that, there were several new additions that some students were unfamiliar with.  For example, the needle used for chest decompression is housed in its own special casing, that looks very similar to a permanent marker.  There are new chest-wound coverings that eliminate the need to use plastic and tape, and a self-heating blanket, similar to the air activated hand-warmers was added to aid in the prevention of shock.

Spc. Crystal Smith, with the Camp Prosperity billeting office, found the eye-wound covering particularly useful, and was heard muttering "Argh, matey quit your belly-aching" eliciting several laughs from those in her group, including some of the FP members when her words were translated back to them.

Whitney explained that while the Combat Action Tourniquet (CAT) may not be the most exciting portion of the class, it's possibly the most vital. "The CAT is 100%  effective if put on correctly.  With the cravat or the other items, it's not perfect, because you still have blood that comes out, but the tourniquet is 100% effective," he said. "It'll save a life quicker than anything."

Whitney moved on to buddy carries, including 1 and 2-man teams.  As usual with this part of the class, the students had fun lifting each other, using laughter to cover the many groans elicited from straining muscles unused to the burden. 
"After just a few tries, the FP members got the hang of the unfamiliar lifts," said Capt. Kelly Wilhelms, rep for the HQ Co for the FP Training Team.

At the end of the training all the students received certificates attesting to their participation and thanking them for their time.  "I know the US Soldiers are already familiar with this info, but this is the first time I've watched our Iraqi colleagues participate in something like this," said Wilhelms. 

"Throughout the day, they've been telling us they really enjoyed the opportunity to be here with us.  Some of our training and info is new, and some is not.  Either way, they'll be taking a great experience back with them."

Spc. Crystal Smith demonstrates the proper placement of an eye-wound cover. 

Staff Sgt. Douglas Whitney stands with the members of the (Iraqi) 56th Sust Bde FP. 

-30-

DVIDS

'Tomahawks,' Diyala PRT, Chicken Farmers Team Up 

Story by Pfc. Adrian Muehe

Mike Rothe, the senior economic adviser for the Diyala PRT, discusses farming options with Iraq Grad Parent Co. co-owner Dr. Wejdi Alshammary, during a tour of the business's new feed mill, near Baqubah, the provincial capital of Diyala, June 14. This company is administering micro-grants, and overseeing a chicken feed co-operative in an effort to revitalize the poultry industry. 

DIYALA — Hussein and Dr. Wejdi Alshammary are just 2 average brothers and businessmen, making a living in Diyala prov.  Their company, however, is not so average, as it is leading the way for the poultry industry in the prov. 

Almost a year ago they received their first shipment of day-old chicks from Arbor Acres, a poultry co. in Alabama, to serve as the grandfather flock for all of Diyala prov.  Since then, they've constructed a factory where they breed and sell chicks to poultry farmers, a feed mill, and a slaughter house in Khalis. 

To meet the high demand, the entrepreneurial duo is building a new feed mill to expand their production capabilities.  These brothers are also working with the Diyala PRT and 1st Bn, 23rd Inf Regt, 3rd Stryker BCT, 2nd ID, to create a chicken feed co-operative.  From this partnership, the brothers received micro-grants of $5,000, and vouchers to give to 25 chicken farmers, who purchase chicks and feed from their company throughout Diyala prov.

“The Alshammary brothers were selected for this project, because they've a lot of experience running poultry ops,” said Mike Rothe, senior economic adviser to the Diyala PRT. “They're willing to invest significant amounts of their own capital for this project.”

Farmers involved with the co-op will receive micro-grants distributed by the brothers’ company, to buy feed, along with vouchers for additional 20% discounts, giving them up to $5,000 worth of free chicken feed.  This saves money while encouraging them to buy in bulk. “Through this they [the farmers] will be able to get 14 metric tons of feed, and a whole cycle of baby chickens,” said Hussein Alshammary.

According to Rothe, chicken feed in Iraq costs double what it does on the global market, and that creates a struggle for the nation’s poultry farmers.  The heavy subsidies the poultry industry received under the Saddam regime ceased in 2003, causing farmers to struggle to thrive in a free market economy.  The resources they're able to purchase are expensive due to middle-men handling the int'l shipments.

“The poultry industry in Diyala has faced big problems,” said Hussein. “With this step we're trying to encourage farmers, to put them back on the road to being leaders in the industry.”

The brothers’ company will also expand as a result of this.  After construction of their new mill is complete, they hope to maximize their production to 10 metric tons (10,000 kilograms) an hour. This will double their production, drastically lower the cost of feed for local farmers, and open up a new market. 

“This is a long range, multi-layered project,” said Lt. Col. Chuck Hodges, cmdr of 1/23 Inf. “This micro-grant payout just happens to be one spoke in the overall cog of re-engineering the poultry industry in Diyala.”

“The next step is actually helping the individual farmers and the poultry assns either restart their ops or produce poultry more efficiently,” said Rothe. “We'll be addressing the deficiencies of the farmers here.”

This will be accomplished by establishing training programs about bio-security, or ensuring chickens are well bred and healthy. This will be taught to the farmers, and how to use their assets to maximize their full potential.

With the IGPC churning out feed, and continuing their lead for Diyala prov. chicken farmers, the industry will soon be on its own feet again.  When chicken farmers will be able to thrive, people all over Iraq will be able to wake up to the call of a rooster, as a new dawn breaks over the country.

Before a micro-grant payout for a chicken feed co-operative, Hussein Alshammary shows Lt. Col. Chuck Hodges one of the generators that will be powering the company's new feed mill. 

During a tour of the location of a new feed mill, Hussein Alshammary pauses to answer a question from Mike Roth. 

Hussein Alshammary shows Lt. Col. Chuck Hodges the frame of what will soon be a building used to store chicken feed.

-30-

USF-I

ISF arrest suspected AQI terrorist, criminal associates

BAGHDAD - ISF arrested a suspected AQI member and 3 criminal assocs during a joint security op., conducted in northern Iraq, June 19.  In Mosul, ISF and U.S. advisors conducted a vehicle stop in pursuit of a suspected AQI member, who allegedly has ties to other AQI senior leaders.

-30-

Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/6-20

Dear Interested Reader,

Medical aid comes to Bouldac villagers.  Marines enhance markmanship skills at PB Koshtay.  Op Kokcha underway in Takhar prov.  First Afghan family to return to Now Zad helps with micro grants.  Ghazni PRT supports ANP traffic training program.

Iraq:  203 FA conducts a peace mission in Laylan prov.   Sharing a meal with the Kurdish Regional Guard in Laylan.  Electrical project progressing well in Dhi Qar prov.  Comedians come to Camp Liberty's Iron Oasis.

Joanna

______________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

DVIDS

ISAF Gives Medical Aid to Bouldac Villagers

Story by Lance Cpl. Megan Sindelar

Marines and sailors with I Marine HQ Group, I MEF, work with British, Danish and members of the ANA to conduct a village medical outreach (VMO), June 16.  A total of 81 locals were able to receive medical aid. 

BOULDAC – Marines and medical officers from I Marine HQ Group and 3rd Low Altitude Air Defense Bn, I MEF (FWD), a British plt, a Danish liaison training team, a squad from the ANA and an ANA medic traveled to Bouldac, a village near Camp Leatherneck. 

The VMO site was set up at a centralized location of the village compounds.  A large tent was set up for the outreach patients and solar-netting was put up over the waiting area. The medical team, with the ANA medic taking the lead, helped 45 patients at the centralized site.

Meanwhile, a female engagement team (FET) escorted I MEF female medical staff to each compound within the Bouldac village. The FET was needed to escort the medics because the females have strict religious views that keep them within their compounds.  Bringing the female doctors to the compounds made the villagers more comfortable and the medical staff was able to treat 36 patients within their homes, during the day.

Petty Officer 2nd Class Erik Belty, a corpsman with Preventive Medical Det, I Marine HQ Group, said he enjoyed this outreach because he was able to treat patients.  He taught each patient different hygiene techniques, and before leaving the medical tent they were all given a bag of hygiene items.

Belty also said that some of the villagers who came for treatment had long-term issues that could only be treated with temporary medication. The men and children have very little access to health care, but as the females rarely leave their compounds, most of them have never seen a doctor.

1st Lt. Sean McCullough, plt cmdr of Grave 2, Bravo Btry, 3rd LAAD, I MHG (FWD), said his Marines worked well with the British, Danish and the ANA security teams that were on the site. “The Marines did a great job,” said McCullough. “We couldn’t have had a better security element, and still be welcoming to the villagers.”

Petty Officer 2nd Class Erik Belty, a hospital medic, checks the stethoscopes before the start of the village medical outreach.

Petty Officer 2nd Class Belty demonstrates to the locals how to effectively use toothbrushes. Villagers were each given a toothbrush, toothpaste, soap and lotion.

Petty Officer 2nd Class Erik Belty checks the vitals of a local.

-30-

DVIDS

3/1 Marines Enhance Marksmanship Skills 

Story by Lance Cpl. Jeremy Fasci

Sgt Mark Peters, a squad leader with Lima Co, 3rd Bn, 1st Marine Regt, makes corrections to sights on his rifle during an opportunity to fire on the range at Patrol Base Koshtay, Helmand prov., June 16.  Keeping their sites at the proper zero allows Marines to be ready to engage an enemy at all times.   

GARMSIR DISTRICT – Under the co. cmdr’s guidance, all Marines with Lima Co. are required to ‘zero’ their weapons, adjusting and perfecting their combat ‘optics,’ while using proper sight alignment and sight picture.

“Every Marine is a rifleman. If we're going to say that and continue to preach it, then we need to back it up,” said Gunnery Sgt. Patrick Fay, co. gunnery sgt for Lima Co. “Marksmanship is what's going to help us win the war. These guys aren’t sticking around too long for us to fire, so whether you shoot 1 round or 1,000  rounds, it may be only that first shot that you fired that’s the most important one.”

“As generic as it does sound, being in the pits at the range is probably one of the most conducive training objectives that the Marine Corps has available to relate to a combat firefight situation,” said Sgt. Mark Peters, a squad leader with Lima Co. “When we were just down south recently in a compound, and rounds were whizzing over our head, I said, ‘Hey we’re at the rifle range boys, we’re in the pits.’”

“We try to keep it simple at Lima Co.,” said Fay. “If you can’t fire your weapon system properly, what are you doing on a battlefield? You need to put the right tool for the right job.” 

2nd Lt. Alexander Meyer, a forward observer, sights in to fire on the range.  Other Marines critique his fundamentals during the evolution to help correct any problems and form him into a better overall marksman.  

Sgt. Mark Peters, a squad leader, makes corrections to sights on his rifle.

-30-

IJC Public Affairs Advisory Team- RC-North 

Operation Kokcha Underway in Takhar Province

(Photo by Lt. Col. Mohammad Jalal Naim)

TAKHAR PROVINCE - ANA Maj. Gen. Murad, Cmdr, meets with govt officials and village elders, June 6, during Op Kokcha, a 9-day mission that entailed searching more than 100 villages along the border of Tajikistan and Uzbekistan to capture drug smugglers and Taliban members.   

-30-

DVIDS

First Afghan to Return, Helps Create Future Businesses

 (Marine Corps photos by Sgt. Shawn Coolman)   

FOB CAFFERETTA - Cpl. Chris Rodriguez, 22, civil affairs NCO for CA Team 1, 11th Marine Regt, RCT 2, plays with Mitra, the daughter of Khwaja Sabor, a nurse with the de-miners, (Afghan IED and mine clearers), during a visit to Mohammed Younus home in Now Zad, June 14.  Younus, and his family, were reportedly the 1st family to return to Now Zad in early January, after nearly 4 years of fighting in the area.  The CA Marines want Younus to become a 3rd party micro grant liaison between the Marines and Afghans who are interested in applying for a micro grant. Younus would be responsible for preparing the Afghans applications prior to being submitted. The micro grant program grants money to Now Zad residents who are interested in opening up their own business, but lack the necessary money to do so. There's a potential for up to $2500 grants for those who qualify. 

Mohammed Younus, and one of his daughters, sit and talk to civil affairs Marines during a visit to his home. 

Mohammed Younus, (left) sits with Navid (top right), a linguist with 1st Bn, and Lance Cpl. Dustin Brians, 24, a civil affairs Marine. 

-30-

RC-East in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Ghazni PRT supports ANP traffic training program

Written by AF 1st Lt. Katherine Roling

Afghans, who are students in the traffic training program, carry chairs purchased by the Ghazni PRT, June 16, in Ghazni City.  Other supplies included a 32" flat panel television, printer, notebooks, driver’s manuals and a digital camera. The equipment will allow Afghan drivers to possess a driver’s license once the training is completed. The training is administered by the ANP. (AF photos by Tech Sgt. J.T. May III)

GHAZNI PROVINCE - “This was the traffic police chief’s idea; we’re just supporting him,” said Army Maj. Jonathan Price, Ghazni PRT civil affairs team chief.

The Dir. of the Ghazni Traffic Police Dept, Ghulam Rasekh, created the proposal, and because his request was under $5,000, the PRT was able to treat it as a Bulk Cmdr’s Emergency Response Program, which renders faster results than a larger-scale project.

“Bulk CERP Projects are small-scale, small-cost projects, usually under $5000, that offer immediate assistance to the local population,” Price said. “We like conducting Bulk CERP because they're quick, usually take less than 30 days, and help connect the Afghan people with the govt.”

Afghans have to be 18 years old to get a driver’s license, and they have to pass a written exam, a driving test, and pass the medical portion of the class for sight and hearing.  Since Afghanistan has an adult literacy rate of 28%, according to the UN Children’s Funds org., students can take a verbal test in place of the written exam.

The goal is to graduate 200 people in 15 days, he said.  The class teaches int'l rules of the road, traffic signals, overcoming blind spots, how to approach multiple vehicles on a curved road, and even what to do when approaching CF in a convoy.  With the new equipment, the ANP will train new drivers more efficiently.

 

Army Master Sgt. Frederic Smith, Ghazni PRT civil affairs NCO-in-charge, offloads supplies used to assist students in the traffic training program. 

Ghulam Rasekh pauses after thanking Ghazni PRT for the supplies to assist the traffic school students.

-30-

IRAQI STORIES:

Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq

2-3 FA conducts a peace mission

(Army Photo by Spc. Charles Smith)   

LAYLAN - Army Spc. Kris Hostetler, assigned to 1st Bn, 30th Inf Regt, 2nd Bde, 3rd ID, shows a group of Iraqi kids how to give high-fives in the village of Azadi, June 15.  Hosteler's unit were conducting a peace mission. 

A group of Iraqi kids greet the Soldiers as they enter the village in Kirkuk.

Iraqi kids from the village Hezir open and separate gifts from U.S. Soldiers. 

-30-

Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq 

Kurdish Regional Guard

(Navy Photos by Petty Officer 1st Class Dave Hites)

LAYLAN - Soldiers assigned to 3rd plt, Bravo Btry, 2nd Bn 3rd FAR, 1st Bde, 1st AR Div share a meal courtesy of the Kurdish Regional Guard in Laylan, Kirkuk, June 9. The plt is conducting training for the troops.  U.S. forces are acting in an "advise and assist" capacity in preparation for a planned troop withdrawal from the region. 

U.S. Soldiers share a meal with the Kurdish Regional Guard. 

Army Staff Sgt. Nicholas Gilveli and 1st Sgt. Bobby Bennett Jr.,  assigned to Bravo Btry, work on setting up a mock traffic control point for Kurdish Regional Guard training in Kirkuk, June 10. 

U.S. Soldiers discuss training Iraqi Kurdish Regional Guard troops.

-30-

Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq

Kaffa'at, Dhi Qat Electrical Project

(Navy photos by Petty Officer 1st Class Lynn Friant)   

DHI QAR PROVINCE - Army Staff Sgt. Kenny Sargent of the 3-29 Bravo Btry, 3rd Bde, 4th ID, speaks with local Iraqis, June 13. To ensure Kaffa'at Electrical project is progressing, U.S. soldiers on the PRTs go on recon missions to assess each phase of the project. 

U.S. Soldiers speak with local Iraqis.

Army 2nd Lt. Dustin Kuhlman speaks with local Iraqis.

U.S. Soldiers speak with local Iraqis. 

-30-

DVIDS

Comedians Come to Iron Oasis, Entertain USD-C Soldiers

(Photos by Spc. Daniel Schneider)

BAGHDAD - Soldiers of USD-Center laugh during the 2010 Lone Wolf Entertainment Comedy Tour show held at the Camp Liberty Iron Oasis dining facility, June 16. This show was the last stop on an Iraq tour for comedians Susan Freeman, Jack Warren and Lorenzo Thornton.  

Soldiers from 1st AR Div roar in laughter. 

Soldiers laugh at a joke delivered by comedian Susan Freeman.  The show allowed Soldiers to relax and eat dinner, while getting in some laughs and entertainment.   

Comedian Lorenzo Thornton delivers a joke.  Following his comedy routine, he praised Soldiers, and announced how proud and thankful he was of their service. 

Comedian Jack Warren delivers a joke. 

-30-

USF-I

ISF arrest suspected AQI terrorist, one criminal associate

BAGHDAD - ISF arrested a suspected AQI member and a criminal assoc., during 2 separate joint security ops, conducted in northern Iraq, June 18.  Approx 68kms SE of Kirkuk, ISF and U.S. advisors searched a building for a suspected AQI member, allegedly responsible for the terrorist org's security.

During another op in Tikrit, ISF and U.S. advisors searched several buildings for a suspected AQI member allegedly responsible for VBIED attacks.  Info and evidence gathered at the scene led Iraqi forces to identify and arrest a criminal assoc.

-30-

flickr

School Song

(Army photo by Spc. Nashaunda Tilghman)

A student performs a song for Army Capt. Kristen Brockman and Sgt. Magaly Santillan, 1411 Civil Affairs Co, during the ribbon cutting ceremony of Al Yaman Al Saeed Girls' School in Mussayibb, May 10, 2010. 

-30-

Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/6-19

Dear Interested Reader,

Orphan boy treated at FOB Sharana.  ANP officers graduate training course in Sharana.  Series of shuras help in Marjah.  Successful ops in Kandahar and Helmand provs.

Iraq:  "Vipers" provide critical air traffic services in USD-N.  JSS Carver transferred to ISF.  Suspected AQI terrorists and criminal assocs. arrested in 3 separate ops.

Joanna

_____________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

RC-East in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Orphan boy helped by ANSF, coalition forces

Written by Army 1st Lt. R.J. Peek

ANSF and Soldiers with Co A, 3rd Bn, 187th Inf Regt help an injured boy.

FOB SHARANA – An injured orphan was treated at the Yahya Khel District outpost, May 27.  Near starvation, with bloodied and bruised feet, it was obvious to the ANSF soldiers that the boy was an orphan.  He became homeless when insurgent forces killed his father months earlier, said Army Capt. Josh Powers, A Co. cmdr.

The combined Afghan and U.S. forces knew the boy needed medical care and brought him into FOB Sharana, where medics helped clean him up and provided care for his wounds, said Powers.

“It's good to help the children of the area. They're the future of Afghanistan,” said ANA 1st Lt. Latif Khan, who partners with A Co., 3-187.  The combined forces provided the boy with a fresh pair of socks, a new pair of shoes, and a stuffed animal, added Khan.

“It was nice to see … some of the other guys showing compassion for the boy,” said Powers. “Even the Sub-Gov., Ali Mohammed, pitched in to help the boy, doing what he could to help those of the Yahya Khel District.”
 
At this time the Sub-Gov. is taking care of the orphan until more permanent arrangements can be made, said Powers.

-30-

RC-East in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

ANP officers graduate training course in Sharana

Written by Army 1st Lt. R.J. Peek

The Paktika ANP graduated 102 officers from the Provincial Training Sustainment Site and Directed Police District Development, at the Paktika Police Provincial HQ in Sharana, Paktika Prov., June 10.  

FOB SHARANA – This was the 10th class to successfully graduate from this course.  Its success has resulted in a surge of trained police officers returning to their districts to help maintain security, said James Richardson, police training program contract rep from DynCorps Int'l.

Students spend 8 weeks in this course in order to graduate as fully-trained police officers. The courses teach hand-to-hand combat, rifle marksmanship, standards and discipline, drill and ceremony, and basic police techniques, added Richardson.

Afghan Border Patrolman, 1st Sgt. Rakman, the head instructor for the course, was proud to watch the class graduate.  “These are the perfect students; they have learned everything that a good police officer should know,” he said. “They know what to do and how to help the public.  They know their Afghan Constitution.”  

Army Lt. Col. David Fivecoat, cmdr of 3rd Bn, 187th Inf Regt, emphasized that the policemen’s hard work and training got them through the course, and that they're now joining an elite group of Afghans, chosen to protect the people of Paktika Prov.  “The Soldiers of TF Iron Rakkasan look forward to fighting shoulder-to-shoulder with you to make the people of Paktika safe,” Fivecoat said during his ceremony speech.

Paktika Provincial Gov. Samim attended the graduation ceremony, and personally honored the top 5 graduates.  

-30-

ISAF Public Affairs Office

Series of Shuras Held in Marjah

Story and photos by Lance Cpl. James  Clark

Haji Zahir, the regional district gov. of Marjah speaks during an elder shura, held at the govt center in Marjah, June 6.. The elder shura marked the 3rd since Afghan and CF arrived in the city, and marked a key step to holding routine meetings. 

FOB MARJAH – Shuras, the Afghan equivalent of a town hall meeting, serve as a forum where the concerns of the city residents can be discussed, and proposals deliberated upon.  Prior to beginning the meeting, Haji Zahir, presided over a ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking the end of reconstruction efforts at the govt center, and symbolized a formal presence of the GoA in Marjah.

“The ceremony officially marked the govt center’s refurbishment, after it was repainted, had new doors and windows installed, and had interior restructuring done,” said Capt. Anthony Zinni, comm. officer for Weapons Co, 1st Bn, 6th Marine Regt.  “Having all the block leaders there, see the GoA slowly establishing itself, presents the perception of the govt improving on what it has, and a sense of status that comes with legitimacy.”

After the ribbon-cutting ceremony and a customary moment of prayer, the members gathered under the crowded solar shade, sharing a small space away from the sun.  Compared to the last shura, when 60 elders attended, roughly 200 men were present, the majority of whom were village elders, mullahs, the religious figureheads of community, or block leaders.

“When we first started holding the shuras, the main concern was civilian casualties,” said Zinni. “The last one was focused on accountability of block leaders. This one was aimed at establishing the structure and workings of an elder shura as a governing body.

Reps from Afghan SECFOR, the regional gov., and elders at the shura discussed several different topics, the foremost being how to establish a governing body of elders to work as a council for the city.

 “We’re trying to get them to buy into the idea of the council, because it’s a form of empowerment,” Zinni said. “They can vote, speak up, and in doing so, make changes.  The elders are on the ledge, wondering if they should take a leap of faith, and put their trust in the GoA or not. They’re going to support the guy who can oust the other.  In a lot of ways the Taliban have burnt bridges since they’ve been here.”

Other key points were the recruitment of local men into the ANP, and the need for the various tribes and villages that comprise the city, to present a unified front against the Taliban.

“The people of Marjah like the idea of having locals police their own city, as they’re not too trusting of outsiders,” said Zinni. “The fact that there'll be Marjah residents being police officers in their city, gives them a sense of ownership over their community.”

One of the final points of discussion was on tribal support, as smaller tribes and villages are at the highest risk of being targeted by the Taliban. The idea of going out of one’s way for someone not from their village, or specific tribe, can be controversial among many Afghans, but the elders at the shura appeared hopeful that their communities would lend assistance.

“A lot of villages that are farther away are isolated and are at risk of reprisal from the Taliban if they cooperate with us,” said Zinni. “The Taliban aren’t targeting areas that are unified, because the larger tribes are fighting back.  Some of the larger tribes have been encouraged to unify with the smaller ones for security.  It’s possible in Marjah, which is a melting pot of different tribes and ethnicities.”

“If they had their way the Taliban would be gone, but they can’t,” said Zinni. “They’re afraid, and at the end of the day are unsure who their neighbors will side with:  the government or the Taliban?”

A young boy plays with a stuffed animal he received from a Marine.

-30-

ISAF Public Affairs Office

Afghan-ISAF Ops in Southern Afghanistan

KANDAHAR PROVINCE - Afghan-ISAF captured a Taliban sub-cmdr responsible for coordinating attacks, and the movement of IED material, and detained several suspected insurgents, June 16. The SECFOR searched a remote building north of Morghan Kechah in the Daman district.  No shots were fired in this op.civilians. 

HELMAND PROVINCE - An ISAF patrol discovered large quantities of drugs in Garm Ser district, June 15.  The force found 450 kilograms of opium, hidden under a false floor in a truck, after the driver tried to avoid a vehicle checkpoint. The driver and a passenger were detained.

In a separate action, the same unit seized a kilogram of amphetamines on a farm tractor, and detained several individuals who tested positive for using the drug.  The narcotics trade funds and supports the insurgency, and constitutes a direct threat to Afghanistan.

-30-

IRAQI STORIES:

Backanthem Millitary News

Vipers provide critical air traffic services in USD-N

By Sgt. 1st Class Tyrone Marshall, Staff Sgt. Mike Alberts

Specialist Barry West (seated), air traffic controller, F Co, 3rd Bn, 25th GSAB, TF Hammerhead, performs ground control functions, while Sgt. Klarke Castellanos (standing), air traffic controller and training NCO-in-charge, provides local control of a departing fixed-wing aircraft at COB Speicher, near Tikrit, Jan. 10. 

(Photos by Staff Sgt. Mike Alberts)

COB SPEICHER - The importance of aviation ops in the current contemporary operating environment in Iraq, can't be overstated, with hundreds of movements of troops, supplies and equipment daily.  These critical aviation ops demand a watchful and experienced air traffic services (ATS) team to manage the air space in and around USD-North.

The Soldiers of F Co, "Vipers," provide the necessary over-watch for the high density airspace. The company is also responsible for ATS ops at FOB Warhorse and COB Q- West.

"It's a lot of traffic, particularly at COB Speicher, which rivals the 8th largest airport in the U.S., Charlotte-Douglas Int'l, and that airport doesn't handle UAVs," said  Lt. Col. Gregory Baker, cmdr, 3-25th GSAB.

Capt Matthew Basil, cmdr, F Co., 3-25th GSAB, discussed the scope of his unit's responsibilities as demands increase. "Here at COB Speicher, we're running 2 facilities.  We've got the tower and the Army Radar Approach Control (ARAC).  On average, the tower is handling about 500 movements a day, while the ARAC is handling around 150 movements a day.  Just the density of aircraft movements, (we're looking at 24 hours a day), is probably the biggest challenge about Speicher."

Capt Basil also spoke about the other ominous challenge his ATS Soldiers face on a daily basis - weather. Weather has traditionally been a significant challenge with aviation ops as pilots, crews and ATS must contend with the unpredictable changes in weather patterns. 

On 12 April, TF Marne Comm. Gen., Maj. Gen. Tony Cucolo, was hosting a cmdr's conference at COB Speicher.  Bde cmdrs, senior leaders, and others were arriving throughout the day in weather so bad that the only way to get aircraft in safely was with controllers guiding aircraft in for landing.  It was a significant accomplishment, and one that was later formally recognized by Maj. Gen. Tony Cucolo himself.

Another task the unit is responsible for is ensuring all 4 of their ATS facilities are following the same procedures and guidelines.  Chief Warrant Officer II Mark Stubbs, standardization officer and plt leader, oversees the implementation of these policies.

"What the co. has managed to do with a limited amount of people is just amazing.  The command team that I have with 1st Sgt Clark, Mr. Stubbs and Mr. Spruill, [my other plt leader], is absolutely phenomenal, said Capt. Basil.  "We couldn't do almost any of the things we do without their technical expertise and their ability to make things happen.  All I have to do is give them an idea, or a little bit of intent, and they get it done. It's a beautiful thing," he concluded. 

Sgt Vanessa Chester, ARAC NCO, and Spc. Tai Barbee, ARAC specialist, both with F Co, communicate with incoming aircraft, March 12. 

Spc Cale Walker, air traffic controller, assists providing local control of a departing fixed-wing aircraft, Jan. 10.

 

(left to right) Sgt Lacey Schaefer, Sgt. Klarke Castellanos and Spc. Barry West, air traffic controllers, perform various air traffic services from flight data and ground functions to local control of various aircraft, Jan. 10. 

-30-

USF-I

U.S. forces transfer JSS Carver to Iraqi Army

BAGHDAD - Soldiers of 4th Bn, 31st Inf Regt, 2nd BCT, 10th Mtn Div, transferred JSS Carver to members of the ISF, June 11.

JSS Carver is the 8th JSS to be transferred to the ISF in 2nd BCT's operational environment.  The Soldiers of 4-31 have worked with 45/11 IA over the past 8 months, conducting partnered training, patrols, and humanitarian assistance missions in the Mada'in district.

-30-

USF-I

June 17, 2010

ISF arrest suspected AQI terrorist, criminal associate

BAGHDAD - ISF arrested a suspected AQI) member and a criminal assoc., during a joint security op., conducted in northern Iraq, June 17.  Approx 37kms NW of Baghdad, ISF and U.S. advisors searched a building for the suspected AQI member allegedly linked to senior AQI leadership.

-30-

June 17, 2010

One suspected AQI terrorist, criminal associates arrested

BAGHDAD - ISF arrested a suspected AQI member and 3 criminal assocs., during 2 separate joint security ops., conducted June 17.

In west Mosul, ISF and U.S. advisors searched a building for a suspected AQI member, allegedly linked to acquiring vehicles and weapons used to carry out assassinations in the northern-Iraqi city.  It's believed that he also has close ties to senior AQI leadership. Info and evidence gathered at the scene led Iraqi forces to identify and arrest 1 criminal assoc. of the warranted individual.

During another op in west Baghdad, ISF and U.S. advisors searched 2 buildings for a suspected AQI member, allegedly responsible for VBIED attacks.  Info and evidence gathered at the scene led Iraqi forces to identify and arrest the warranted individual and 2 criminal assocs.

-30-

flickr

Brush Stroke

Paintings of Arabian horses, Iraqi farmers and brides covered the walls of the COB Kalsu dining facility conference room, during an Art Fair presented by Iraqi artists of Babil prov., in southern Iraq, June 2, 2010. U.S. Soldiers took advantage of this opportunity to purchase affordable and unique paintings to take back home. 

-30-

Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/6-18

Dear Interested Reader,

Soldier celebrates Army's birthday with his Afghan students.  Paktika PRT building together.  Training prepares engrs. for Afghan roads.  Forces eliminate IED cells, secure weapons cache in Paktika prov.

Iraq:  IA graduates 1st group of field artillery officers.  Unit diversity, teamwork in the 102nd Quartermaster Co.  Leaders discuss Q-West base turnover.  Wounded Warrior returns to Camp Taji, finds closure.

Joanna

___________________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

RC-East in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Soldier celebrates Army's birthday in a special way

Story and photos by Army Spc. Monica Smith

Newly-promoted Army Sgt. Lance Grubb (center), Co A, TF Knighthawk, 3rd CAB, TF Falcon, instructor of the ANSF’ Crew Chief Academy, goes over the in-flight training goals with his class June 14. 

BAGRAM AIRFIELD – As Army Soldiers throughout the world celebrated the 235th birthday of the Army with ceremonies and cake, one Soldier spent this holiday in a UH-60 Black Hawk with 7 Afghan soldiers.

“Being able to do this after I just got promoted to sgt, instills in me that I'm an NCO now,” said Grubb. “There’s more responsibility that comes with the job, and this is an experience that a lot of people don’t get to have.  It’s a privilege to teach the Afghan army how to do what we do, so that we can all be safe.”

During the in-flight instruction, their 2nd flight so far, the 5 ANA Air Corps crew chiefs and 2 flight medics sat in the back of the Black Hawk, connected through headsets.

“In this flight, they were pretending to be the aircraft’s crew chiefs,” said Grubb. “In a previous flight I made the calls, but today we had a role reversal. They told me what needed to be done and made the calls, and I evaluated them. This showed what they do and don’t understand. This showed me where they are in the learning process, so I know what we need to go over.”

During the academy, the students are taught crew chief responsibilities such as how to communicate clearly and consistently with their pilots.  After the flight, the group returned to their classroom to conduct an after action review, and discuss what went well and how they can improve.  For many of the students, the flight showed how much they needed to learn to become proficient, said ANA Air Corps Pvt. Abdul Malik, one of the flight medics participating in the academy.

“On this flight, I learned that it's our job to control the aircraft and to have quality communication with the pilots,” said Malik. “When we took off I didn’t know we had 2 helicopters. I didn’t see them. I learned that you have to watch for them. That’s the main thing I learned as a crew chief. You have to watch out; your eyes have to always be open.”

The academy is one of a series of academies within the TF Falcon Combined Action Program, which includes the ANSF Air Assault Academy, Flight Medic Academy, and the Close Combat Attack Academy.

 

ANA Air Corps crew chiefs secure themselves into a UH-60 Black Hawk.

Sgt. Lance Grubb conducts an after action review.

-30-

RC-East in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Paktika PRT Building Together in Paktika Province

Story and photos by AF Master Sgt. Demetrius Lester 

PAKTIKA PROVINCE - Paktika PRT member, Petty Officer 1st Class Brian Gamache, (right) performs a concrete slump test, which measures moisture in cement, with a Afghan contractor.  Gamache is an engr for the PRT which oversees the quality of production, and works with Afghan locals at a library being built in the Sharana district. Gamache is deployed from Naval Ops Service Center, London, Conn. 

Paktika PRT member Petty Officer 1st Class Richard Lang performs a soil sample field gradation particulate test, which explains if there are excessive organics for concrete.  Lang is the quality assurance rep for the PRT.  He's a vital member of a team of roughly 100 military personnel and interagency partners throughout Paktika prov.  Lang is deployed from Amphibious Construction Bn One, Coronado, Calif., where he's the communications chief. 

-30-

RC-East in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Training prepares engineers for Afghan roads

Story and photos by Army Spc. Jay Venturini

Army Spc. Christopher Dueitt, a combat engr with the 287th Mobility Augmentation Co of the Mississippi NG, prepares a Talon EOD Robot to investigate a simulated IED, as part of the Route Recon Clearance Course-Sapper/Blow in Place class, June 15. The training, hosted by TF Paladin, 539th Explosive Hazards Team (EHT), conducted the 7-day training event, designed to equip combat engrs assigned to route clearance plts throughout Afghanistan, with the knowledge and capabilities to identify and destroy certain types of IEDs without the help of EOD personnel. 

BAGRAM AIRFIELD – The R2C2-S/BIP class is a combination of 3 separate courses rolled into 1.  The course includes elements from the Explosive Ordnance Clearance Agent Course, the Route Recon Clearance Course-Sapper, and the Blow in Place-Theater Specific Training course.

The EOCA and R2C2-S courses are normally taught at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo. However, with the influx of route clearance personnel in Afghanistan, the mission required the training to be offered here to produce more qualified route clearance Soldiers, said Army Capt. Gregory Black, 539th EHT detachment cmdr. 

“In this class, we start at the crawl phase, teaching them route clearance from the level of identifying markers, and what to look for in their area of ops, and then work up from there,” Black continued.

The course was created to help alleviate some of the strain on EOD units who do not have the resources to participate in every route clearance mission. “This training gives combat engrs the experience they're going to need when they're out on route clearance missions,” said Army Staff Sgt. Sean Purdy, 539th EHT BIP-TST instructor.  “Their main mission is mobility, so having the skills to blow up an IED themselves, and continue their mission, is vital to their overall success.”

“Having engrs on the roads who know what to look for, and how to clear it, really helps Afghanistan to be more fluid, allowing the locals to go where they need to go,” said Army Lt. Col. Mark Leighton, Explosive Hazard Coordination Cell officer-in-charge, Joint Force Engr Command.

“All the hazards they see here are taken straight off story boards, and from what’s happened recently on the roads,” said Purdy. “We keep the training up-to-date, and specific to the region of the country they are operating in.”

A main focus of the training was the use of Talon EOD robots. The robots are used to investigate and place charges on an IED while the controller is a safe distance away.

“This training is as real as you can get without using real demolition,” said Leighton. “The trainers have done this in the real world, and make sure the students follow, because they know that this is life or death.”   

The students, who already conduct daily missions on the roads of Afghanistan, will be better prepared and more confident against the threats they'll face through the training, said Purdy.  

“I was already confident on the roads, now through this class, I feel even more ready for whatever the enemy throws at me,” said Cpl. Kyle Kothstein, a team leader with the 23rd Engr Co, HQ at Fort Richardson, Alaska.

Sgt. Christopher Works, a combat engr from the 23rd Engr Co, controls a Talon EOD Robot through a video control panel.  A main focus of the training was how to properly operate EOD robots.

-30- 

 

RC- East in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Forces eliminate IED cells, secure weapons cache

(Photos by Army Sgt. Jeffrey Alexander)

ANSF and TF Rakkasan Soldiers from 3rd Bde, 101st AD, conduct clearance patrol. Recent ops in Paktika have helped increase security for locals travelling in and around the Sharana area. 

PAKTIKA PROVINCE – ANSF and Soldiers from B Co, 3rd Bn, 187th Inf Regt, 3rd BCT, recently conducted ops that targeted IED cells, leading to weapons cache finds, insurgent hideouts, and the identification of an insurgent IED team in the Mata Khan district, June 12.

The combined force conducted an air assault op in the outskirts of Amanah village in Kushamond district, which is located at the northern edge of what is locally known as the Gwasta pass.  "This was a suspected insurgent safe haven," said Army 1st Lt. R.J. Peek, 3-187th spokesman.

“Although insurgents were not on the objective area, we confirmed that this area has been utilized by the enemy to conduct meetings and possibly training,” said Army Capt. Aaron Schwengler, B Co cmdr.  

"With the goal of increasing security to the area by disrupting insurgents’ activities, the combined forces conducted foot patrols in addition to the air assault, to help locate IED cells and insurgents. This lead to the identification of several large holes in the surrounding area that were previously used to hide weapons caches, a mortar firing point with a mortar site, a Global Positioning System, and an insurgent instruction manual," said Schwengler.  "After the search, the combined force met with local villagers to discuss security and economic concerns," he added.

However, another foot patrol in Mata Khan district, brought the combined forces to the heart of the action, where an insurgent IED attacked them with small arms and RPGs. The combined forces returned fire, killing 3 insurgents, with no ANSF or CF casualties.

"After the attack, the ANSF confiscated an RPG launcher with rockets, multiple AK-47s and hand grenades, IED materials, maps and instructional notes," said  Army Capt. Robert Kellum, 3-187 intel officer.

ANSF and TF Rakkasan Soldiers conduct a clearance patrol.  Several recent ops in Paktika have helped increase security for locals travelling in and around the Sharana area.

-30-

IRAQI STORIES:

USF-I

IA graduates first group of field artillery officers

BAGHDAD - The 1st class of IA field artillery officers graduated from a 152-day course at FOB Constitution, June 6.  The course, which started in Jan., gave 120 IA Lts the fundamentals of field artillery doctrine, tactics, skills, and institutional knowledge needed to increase the capability of the IA.

According to Lt. Col. Patrick Martin, senior Army advisor at the Field Artillery School and Directorate, the IA will be receiving 7 bns worth of U.S. artillery. "The addition of these officers into the fold of the field artillery is very significant," Martin said.

For Martin, the graduation was significant, not only because these were the 1st Iraqi field artillery officers to be trained since March 2003, but also because the course was run almost entirely by Iraqis, with U.S. Army advisors providing a minimum amount of assistance.

"This shows that the Iraqis are doing this on their own," said Martin.  "We're advising and observing; this is what we want to see - the Iraqis continue to take the lead and instruct on their own."

Iraqi Staff Gen. Ganbar, the graduation keynote speaker, said he was thankful for the field artillery school.  "I feel that we've a fully capable teaching facility and school," Ganbar said.  "To graduate the officers and fill the assigned staff for the Iraqi artillery branch, this 1st graduation means very much to us."

Newly graduated IA 2nd Lt. Ajeel, agreed.  "I'll serve my country honorably," Ajeel said.  "We'll decrease the amount of terrorism with our new capabilities, and build a great Iraq."

-30-

Wagon Wheel, 15th Sust. Bde.

Unit Diversity, Teamwork

Story by Capt. Charles Allen

Members of the 102nd Quartermaster Co, (left to right), from Fort Campbell, Ky.; SPC Muhammed Wahid, from Bangladesh; Spc. Jatniel Rodriguez, from Puerto Rico; Spc. Joseph Smith, from Taiwan; and Spc. Sithu Tin, from Burma, Yangon, serve as an example of the diversity within today’s Army; the diversity that leads to teamwork and true camaraderie.

JOINT BASE BALAD – Army of One, Army Strong, camaraderie, battle buddy, duty, diversity, team work, and commitment are just a few of the words and terms of endearment that are used to describe the modern Army culture and the Soldiers that comprise the force structure.

In the 102nd Quartermaster Co, 13th CSSB, 15th Sust Bde, 13th ESC, there are 4 Soldiers in particular that embody these attributes.  Although they're all from very different backgrounds, their friendship is evident, and their commitment to the Army, the unit, and the other members of the unit is undeniable.

Seldom separated, these 4 Soldiers serve as a constant, positive reminder throughout the unit of the strength found in diversity and teamwork.

“We’re fortunate to have a variety of Soldiers in our plt, to add diversity and experience to the group,” stated 2nd Lt. Lanea Sudweeks, a plt leader assigned to the 102nd Quartermaster Co.  “One of our Soldiers is a devout Muslim and held strong to the fasting during Ramadan,” Sudweeks said.  “He still pushed himself during physical training, and worked outside in the heat, but he ate no food and drank no water during the day - that’s dedication - to both religion and the Army.”

Spc. Muhammed Wahid, from Bangladesh, speaks English, Bangali, Hindi, and Urdu.  Wahid joined the Army out of a desire to work for the U.S. govt, and he likes the Army because of the discipline, physical fitness, and organized battle rhythm.  However, what he enjoys most about being in the Army is the opportunity to work with people of many different backgrounds, Wahid said.  His goals are to become a linguist and an Army officer.  He eventually wants to become a civilian linguist, and an immigration inspector.

Spc. Jatniel Rodriguez, from Puerto Rico, speaks English and Spanish. He joined the Army to learn more English and make better money.  He likes the Army and likes being a Soldier because of the teamwork, battle buddy support, and the feeling of being brave.  His goals are to finish his degree in business administration, and become an officer.  Rodriguez wants to eventually work for a federal agency in Puerto Rico.

Spc. Joseph Smith, from Taiwan, speaks English and Chinese.  Smith joined the Army to become a U.S. citizen and learn English.  He also likes the way the Army treats Soldiers.  He likes being a Soldier because it makes him feel proud and equal among fellow Soldiers, Smith explained.  His goals are to finish a degree in computer programming, help people, and become more physically fit.

Spc. Sithu Tin, from Burma, Yangon, speaks English, Burmese, & Chinese.  Tin joined the Army to become a U.S. Citizen, learn English, and develop a future career.  He likes the Army because of the teamwork, discipline, and physical activity.  He feels very proud to be a Soldier, Tin said.  His goals are to finish a degree in electronic engineering, become a civilian Army tech, meet many people, and develop lasting friendships.

-30-

Wagon Wheel, Sust. Bde.

Iraqi Leaders Discuss Base Turnover

Story by Sgt. Matthew Cooley

Army Col. Larry Phelps (far right), 15th SB cmdr discusses the turnover of Q-West with future base cmdr, IqAF Col. Natik (far left) and Dr. Mohammad (next to Natik), the shaykh of the nearby village Jedellah Sofla, along with other local US and Iraqi civilian and military leaders.

COB Q-WEST – US Army, AF, IqAF, and local Iraqi civilian leaders had a luncheon meeting at the dining facility, May 20 to discuss the largest base turnover from US forces to the IqAF, since the drawdown began.

Q-West, a US base since 2003, is scheduled for turnover from the US Army’s 15th Sustt Bde, 13th ESC, to the IqAF in July, as part of the US military’s drawdown of forces.

According to Natik, the IqAF plans for Q-West to be fully equipped with 3 sqdrns, including new helicopters and multiple US-made F-16 Fighting Falcons by 2011. He also said he plans to improve base security.

In an interview May 11 when Natik arrived on base, he said he worked for 18 years on the base earlier in his career. “We’re very happy, and it was a very good decision to open this base again,” Natik explained.

"It's important that someone who was on Q-West before and understood it, would be in charge," said Phelps.

According to IqAF Lt. Col. Almeferjy, Q-West is of vital strategic importance in the area.  “It's in the interest of both govts that our mission succeeds,” he said. Almeferjy said he hoped the US military would continue to help with the transition as much as possible.

“We're working as one force,” Natik said, explaining his belief that the Iraqi military would continue to adopt a more Western style of military.

"Most good militaries work similarly," Phelps said, citing the time he spent working with other countries’ armed forces while working at NATO. “They find a different path, but they end up at the same place.  I think we’re like that,” he explained.

Mohammad discussed local issues in the area including poverty, trouble getting clean water, and terrorism.  “Unemployment is one of the reasons people turn to terrorism,” he said.  Mohammad asked Natik to keep hundreds of civilian workers, employed by the US Army on Q-West, after the base turnover.  Natik explained he was aware of the issue, and would recommend to the Iraqi MoD to keep some of the employees who meet certain criteria.  

Almeferjy mentioned that it's been done before.  “I'll do my best to help them.  I have this concern in my mind,” Natik told Mohammad.  “This base belongs to the people in this region; it’s not mine.”

Mohammad reminisced about his and his village’s relationship with the base and US Army. “When I met them there's more friendship; we break down the barriers,” he said.  Mohammad spoke of his many friends in the US Army including Gen. David Petraeus, whom he met when Petraeus was still a maj. gen.

With the help of Mohammad, the US Army found insurgents operating in the area, and was able to determine friend from foe, he explained. “Main thing I discuss with the CF is how to win the people beside us by giving them jobs,” Mohammad said.

In those early days, he invited area leaders and US military leaders to his home to discuss local issues, he said.   He continues this practice today.  Mohammad said much had improved in Iraq, and in his local area.  He praised the GoI for systematically attempting to rid the country of corruption, and claimed that voters are beginning to elect those who aren't corrupt.

“In the next parliament I believe the corruption will be down 50 – 60%,” he said.  With the help of CF, 20 schools and a clinic were built in the region since 2003, Mohammad explained.

“We'll all miss this place.  I think there’s something very special about this area, and I’m happy that someone who cares about the area will be in charge,” Phelps told Natik.

Mohammad invited the leaders to his home at a later time to continue to discuss the future of the area.  He also mentioned that he would be happy if Phelps and his other US military friends could visit him in the future.

“I think we could all count ourselves as successful, when I can visit without this,” Phelps said, pointing to his own uniform.

Dr. Mohammad (right background) discusses the turnover of Q-West with future base commander Col. Natik (left) and Col. Larry Phelps (foreground).

-30-

Blackanthem Military News

Wounded warrior returns to Iraq, finds closure

Story and photos by Spc. Roland Hale

Retired Staff Sgt. Chris Bain talks with CAB, 1st ID Cmdr Col. Frank Muth during an Op Proper Exit VII visit to Camp Taji, June 13.  Bain was ambushed on Camp Taji, April 8, 2004 while serving with the 1st AR Div, and now has partial use of his right hand, and no use of his left. 

BAGHDAD - When Staff Sgt. Christopher Bain was ambushed, it was only the beginning of his fight.  He died for 10 minutes and received 4 blood transfusions from Iraqi soldiers to stay alive.  After the injured sgt returned to the states, he faced years of torment.
 

Bain walked out on his first medical board. The man, whose war wounds resulted in the loss of the use of his left hand and minimal use of his right, felt he deserved more than the 30% disability the civilian-led medical board offered him.

Bain spent 3 years in care, and like many wounded combat veterans, battled with the pervasive terror called memory, but Bain is now one-step closer to healing.  A recent trip to Iraq with a program called Op Proper Exit brought Bain back to the place where 6 years earlier, the blast of a mortar threw him yards away from his troops.  The program, which is designed to offer wounded warriors a sense of closure from the war, takes them to ground-zero of their pain, and that's where Bain knelt June 13, digging a knife into the spot where the mortar landed.

On Taji, the veterans were hosted by the CAB, 1st ID, a unit that among other things, flies the type of medevac aircraft that evacuated many of the wounded Soldiers.  CAB, 1st ID Soldiers led the wounded warriors on a tour of the bde. Many of the wounded warriors were unconscious during their first encounter with a medevac helicopter, and do not remember it.

The wounded warriors toured Taji, making an emotional stop at Gunner Gate, the spot where Bain was injured. There, they followed Bain as he re-lived that afternoon 6 years ago.

When the wounded warriors arrived at the gate, it took a minute for the emotions to sink in. They joked with each other like any Soldiers would, often making light of their handicaps.

Bain stood apart from the rest of the group.  Leaning with his good hand on a tree, he looked towards the gate.  After a few minutes, Bain found the spot where he thinks the mortar landed.  He took a knee and asked his buddies for a knife.

The mood had shifted from a seemingly incongruous cheer to sympathy, and as Bain used the knife to scrape dirt from the ground, another wounded warrior collected it in a small plastic bag. "I came here to get closure - to feel the dirt - to walk on the ground that I couldn't walk away from before," said Bain.

Op Proper Exit is a program of the Troops First Foundation, a non-profit org., founded in 2008 by Rick Kell and David Feherty.  Bain and 11 others are participating in the program's 7th tour and will bring the total number of involved veterans to 50. "They want to come back and see that their sacrifice is meaningful," said Kell, the executive director of the Troops First Foundation.

After visiting Gunner Gate, Bain talked to Soldiers during a town-hall-style meeting. "I feel that when I was injured...I know it wasn't done in vain," he told them.  Bain also described to the Soldiers the purpose of Operation Proper Exit. "I didn't get to go home and visit my family," he said. "I woke up in a hospital room. Then I spent 3 years there.  Now I get to return the right way."

Bain was medically retired during his 16th year of service, and he is now a motivational speaker, and certified mentor for the Wounded Warrior Project. "I don't need a uniform to serve," Bain told Soldiers on Taji. "I can still serve all of you."

Retired Staff Sgt. Chris Bain stares towards Gunner Gate on Camp Taji. 

Bain stands at Gunner Gate.

 

Bain (center) touches the ground near Gunner Gate.

Bain collects a handful of dirt from the spot where a mortar struck.

-30-

flickr

Doctor's Visit

(Army photo by Spc. Katie Summerhill) 

An Iraqi child is examined by 1st Lt. Jessica Larson, a physician’s asst with the 307th BSB, 1st Advise and Assist Bde, 82nd AD, during a 1-day, combined U.S.-Iraqi medical engagement in Kubaysah, June 6, 2010.  Nearly 400 townspeople were examined, with some 90% requiring and receiving treatment. 

-30-

Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/6-17

Dear Interested Reader,

Weapons found on mission to remote village in Logar prov.  Empowering a District Development Authority in Kunar prov.  101st Abn Div takes responsibility for RC-East.  Judges continue legal education in Nangahar prov.

Iraq:  Livestock donated to Baghdad University.  Deployed mom sees child graduate high school from Camp Victory.  MoD delegation extends support to Kurdish region.  Graduation ceremony at the IA Engineer School at Camp Taji.

Joanna

___________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

RC-East in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

ANA finds weapons on mission to remote village

Story and photos by Army Pfc. Michael Sword 

 

After a successful mission in the village of Kwajangur, June 6, in Kherwar district, Soldiers from 2nd Plt, Troop C, 1st Sqdrn, 91st Cav Regt, 173rd Abn BCT, and ANA members, load onto a CH-47 Chinook helicopter for the flight back to COP Kherwar.  After finding weapons during a search of the village, Troop C cmdr, Army Capt. Chris Shepherd said he was happy with the actions of the ANA and the ANP. 

LOGAR PROVINCE – The visit to the village, the largest and easternmost in the district, was intended to assess the area’s needs, and talk with the village elder about a proposed road-improvement project.  However, shortly after landing, the mission objective changed.  

Upon hearing reports of insurgents moving through the village with weapons, the U.S. and Afghan Soldiers quickly conducted a patrol of the area.  Led by the ANA, they dispersed and began knocking on doors, questioning local villagers who were nearby, and investigating a small storage building where an insurgent had been seen earlier. 

Inside, the dark, dusty building, called a qulat, was filled with farming tools and hay.  Searching further, they found a machine gun hidden in a blanket under the hay pile, evidence enough to continue the search.  In another adjacent storage qulat, an AK-47 was found the same way, wrapped in a blanket and under a hay pile, with a box of ammo and a mag.  

Troop C cmdr, Army Capt. Chris Shepherd was happy with the quick and motivated response by the ANA and the ANP.  “They’ve always been the lead since we’ve been here,” said Shepherd.  “When we had to shift into searching for weapons or personnel they were pretty good.”  

Shepherd met with the village elder in a field surrounded by villagers and kids who were anxious to hear what the American cmdr had to say.  The focus of the discussion was a proposed road-improvement project, that will run through Kwajangur to the Kherwar district center, as well as getting the villagers to ensure local security for the workers on the project.

“Security has to come first, and it has to come from villages actually taking responsibility for it, because we can’t be everywhere at once,” said Shepherd.  
 After some talking, the villagers and village elder finally agreed to provide local security for the project.

“The biggest success story was securing the agreement on the road,” said Shepherd.  With violence increasing in the area, the presence of armed insurgents was no surprise, but the success of the overall mission, and the cooperation of the local villagers were unanticipated.

“A lot of towns have been threatened not to interact with any CF or govt group,” said Army 1st Lt. Timothy Miller, info ops officer for Troop C.  “Some villages we go into are ghost towns, and we have to knock on the door to actually talk to somebody.”

However, throughout the soldiers’ visit, the town was bustling with activity.  Farmers tended their fields and villagers walked around, talking to the troops of the ANA and ANP.

Afghan Army Sgt. Atal agreed with Shepherd, and was happy with how the mission went, and proud of how well his troops performed. “I’m very happy that we got the weapons of people who are against the govt,” he said.  “The guys did a very good job.”  

During a visit to the village of Kwajangur, Soldiers enter a qulat, small storage space, to continue searching for weapons.

-30-

RC-East in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Empowering a District Development Authority

Story and photos by Army Spc. Albert Kelley 

 

Army 1st Lt. Nick Eidemiller, a plt leader with 1st Plt, Co A, 2nd Bn, 503rd Inf Regt, TF Rock, looks on as District Development Authority members ratify a community development project in the Noorgal District, April 25.   A DDA is a district’s governmental body responsible for implementing community development projects across their district.  Potential projects include schools, retaining walls and water wells. 

KUNAR PROVINCE – Like many plt leaders, 1st Lt. Nick Eidemiller has increased stability in eastern Afghanistan, by helping a solid district govt establish itself in his area of responsibility.  Eidemiller worked closely with district and village level reps to lay the foundation for improved governance in the Noorgal district.

“He took a simple concept like the DDA and the Community District Council (CDC), and identified the problem of there being 2 different powerbases, which were the govt itself and the tribal system,” said Capt. Joe Snowden, co. cmdr. “He found a way to connect the tribal system to the govt.”

Eidemiller mapped out every village in the district, and then reorganized them into 4 zones based on population centers, common issues and tribal relationships. Each of these zones became the new CDCs.

A shura, an informal meeting, including each district village followed, in which each central development committee was identified, and the committee leaders verified.  Eidemiller ensured that each village belonged to a CDC before they left that meeting.

“The last thing you want to do is birth an org. that doesn’t have full representation,” Eidemiller said.  “If a single village feels left out, the new org. can break.  The enemy can then use it as an insurgent haven.”

CDCs met once a week to discuss the needs of their villages. Three reps from each CDC then met bi-weekly for DDA meetings.  Here, they presented project ideas that were needed in their respective CDC’s.  Development Authority members voted on and ratified projects with signatures and thumbprints.

The Noorgal DDA submitted 13 projects since December 2009.  Much of the progress is attributed to the participation of enablers such as civil affairs, PRTs and ADTs.

“It’s about creating a system that’s homogeneous with the tribal system and the tenets of a fully representative democracy,” Eidemiller said. “If you can marry these 2 things, it gives the people a system that they want to maintain and embrace as their own.”

A DDA member approves a community development project with signature and thumbprint in the Noorgal District, April 25.  

1st Lt. Nick Eidemiller teaches DDA members the correct procedure for submitting and approving ideas for community development projects.

-30-

RC-East in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

101st ABN DIV takes responsibility for RC-East

Written by Army Sgt. 1st Class Kerensa Hardy

 

The 101st AD's colors are uncased by Army Maj. Gen John Campbell and Army Command Sgt. Maj. Scott Schroeder, cmdr and command sgt maj of the 101st AD., respectively, during a transfer-of-authority ceremony at Bagram Airfield, June 14.  As the Army marked its 235th birthday, the 101st took command of RC-East from 82nd AD, for what is scheduled to be a 12-month deployment during a critical time in Afghanistan. (Photos by Army Sgt. Scott Davis)

BAGRAM AIRFIELD – It was a little more than a year ago when the All American div. took the reins from the Screaming Eagles, in what has seemingly become a tradition between the 2 HQ. 

“Thanks to the partnership we've built with the ANSF and govt officials throughout the RC-East provs, as well as the campaign continuity the 82nd Abn and 101st Abn Divs have built over the 4 years we've preceded and succeeded each other in this mission, this ceremony has become a formality,” said Army Maj. Gen. Curtis Scaparrotti, 82nd AD and Combined Joint TF-82 cmdr.

The outgoing cmdr chronicled myriad accomplishments, and expressed confidence in the capability and capacity of the Afghan partners.  “The true authority for the peace and prosperity of Afghanistan rests in the ANSF, the Afghan govt, and the people themselves,” Scaparrotti said. “Their presence and commitment is enduring.”

“It’s truly an honor to be here today to reflect on the incredible accomplishments and sacrifices of the Soldiers and civilians of CJTF-82, and to assume responsibility of RC-East,” said Army Maj. Gen. John Campbell, 101st AD and CJTF-101 cmdr.

Referring to the storied history both divs share, Campbell said what was true nearly 70 years ago at Camp Claiborne, La., when the 101st and 82nd stood together to form the first 2 ADs and 65 years ago at Normandy is still true today. “We're a band of brothers and sisters who've fought and bled together, across generations, in defense of our nation and the universal principles of freedom, justice and peace,” Campbell said.

He said the coming year is vital to Afghanistan’s future, and CJTF-101 will build on past accomplishments, to further combined and unified action, to help facilitate enduring Afghan solutions to Afghanistan’s challenges by, with, and through its Afghan partners.

“Our success is measured by our partner’s success, and their success isn’t measured by the number of projects or missions we conduct, but by the faith and confidence the Afghan people entrust in them,” continued Campbell.

After what marked the 3rd transfer of authority between the 2 divisions, CJTF-101 began its newest rendezvous with destiny by assuming control of 14 provs in eastern Afghanistan.

Maj. Gen. John Campbell giving a speech.

Soldiers representing the TFs who fall under Combined TF 82 stand at attention during a transfer of authority ceremony.  CJTF-82 is redeploying to Fort Bragg, N.C.  (Photo by Army Spc. Jay Venturini)

-30-

RC-East in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Afghan Judges continue legal education

Story and photos by Army Spc. Richard Daniels Jr. 

 

Dep. Gov. Ishaqzai advises judges from Nangarhar, Kunar, Nuristan and Laghman not to be afraid to do their jobs in order to achieve peace in Afghanistan.  Supreme courts justices gathered at the Jalalabad Courthouse for the Continuing Legal Education session, June 5 – June 10.  It's a program to help judges and lawyers keep up to date on the latest changes to the Afghan law. 

NANGARHAR PROVINCE - Judge advocate generals of HHC, TF Bastogne, used this opportunity to distribute much needed legal books on the penal code. 
“It's a program to help judges and lawyers to keep up-to-date on the latest changes to the law,” said Army Capt. Hana Rollins, judge advocate rule of law attorney. “It ensures that they understand what's going on, and still be relevant to anything that might have happened since they went to law school, because there're always constant changes in the legal field.”

“This was the first one of its kind where we had all the judges come to one location, and then have the top people instruct them,” said Rollins.  Though this program is new to judicial leaders in Afghanistan, it's the mirror image of a program in the U.S..

“In the U.S., the American Bar Association also has a Continuing Legal Education session; this is the Afghanistan version of that,” said Rollins. “In this event, this is the first time we had Supreme Court justices instruct the judges.  We invited 50 judges, including 5 defence attorneys from Jalalabad, 20 from Nangarhar, 10 from Kunar, 10 from Laghman, and 5 from Nuristan.  Four additional students came from the Supreme Court voluntarily; they're probably future judges.”

The court still faces a continual threat of corruption. One of the major threats is various figureheads using bribes to lighten or omit a sentence. “Some sub-govs are interfering with our decisions,” said Kunar Judge Mawlawizada. “This should not be allowed.  When a judge does not agree with a sub-gov., that judge is reassigned to a new district.  If we remove a judge because he's bad, we should prosecute him.”

Judicial members stressed the importance of practicing law, throughout the conference.  Without it, the judges feared that there would be little to no improvements to a better Afghanistan. “We should not be afraid of any insurgents.  We should just apply the law and defend against the enemies of Afghanistan,” said Dep. Gov. Ishaqzai. “To have peace in Afghanistan, we must apply the law.”

Though the results of JAG’s endeavour may not show immediately, Rollins believes the session has much promise for the country. “If you can get a good group of judges who're willing to go back, who are motivated, excited about doing their job, going out and conducting fair public trials, that will spread like wild fire. You just have to keep pushing it to make sure they'll carry it out.  So I think it was very successful, but the benefits for Afghanistan will be long term.”

Getting judges excited about doing their jobs depends upon their security.  Judges often find themselves faced with a choice:  uphold the law and face political harassment, or become influenced by corrupted officials and letting the unjust go free.

“I'm concerned about safety for judges.  If judges are not safe, how can we apply the law?” said Mawlawizada. “We're scared for our safety while traveling to our districts and offices.” 

Developing judges with the courage to conduct fair trials also plays into one of TF Bastogne’s ultimate goals.  “Our goal is to try to get public trials to avoid corruption; you can’t pay a judge off when the whole public is listening to the facts of the case,” said Rollins. “Our goal is to make them public, so we can step out of the picture and let the Afghans take care of their own judicial system.”

Kunar Judge Mawlawizada speaks to 50 judges about some of the complications of corrupt govt mixed with law. 

Army Maj. Scott Linger, bde judge advocate, TF Bastogne, hands an Afghan judge a certificate of completion.  

-30-

IRAQI STORIES:

USF-I

Livestock donated to Baghdad University

Story and photos by Spc. Luisito Brooks

Soldiers with the 4th Stryker BCT, 2nd ID, pet dairy cows purchased by their unit for the University of Baghdad’s Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture programs, during a visit to the college, May 26, 2010.

ABU GHRAIB – While searching for shade, nearly a dozen black and white cows, their long tails swatting at flies, wandered to the edge of their fenced paddock, where Soldiers from the 4th Stryker BCT stopped to pet and feed them hay through the bars.

Students from the University of Baghdad’s College of Agriculture displayed the 11 new Holstein dairy cows, given to them by the “Raider” Bde.  The university also received state-of-the-art equipment used to conduct artificial insemination, to increase the size of their herd, and to train others to do the same.

“This project has been our priority,” said Mr. Hamza, Dean of the University.  This  project included 22 dairy cows, divided equally between the University’s Veterinary and Agriculture Colleges, as well as feed.

While each college campus has their own herd of 11 cows to work with, partnership and the sharing of knowledge, training and resources is encouraged between the 2 schools.

“The students will learn how to clean, feed and maintain these animals,” said Hamza. “They will use the same equipment that students at American universities are using.”  He explained that he feels the best way to improve the economy and standard of life for the people of Iraq will come through good education.

“Projects like these have endless possibilities,” said Capt. Talgin Cannon, the project mgr from 4th SBCT. “The knowledge gained from this will give these students a place in this society to make improvements.”

With each cow producing an average of 6 gallons of milk every day, the school can also capitalize from this project by selling milk collected by students. “We can sell milk to raise money for the school,” said Hamza. “Getting the books and lab equipment that we need will be easier now.”

As the Raider Bde prepares to depart Iraq later this year, they will leave with the knowledge that they've helped ensure that institutions like the university, and its agriculture and veterinary colleges will be successful in the future.

“We want to leave the university with more than just dairy cows,” said Lt. Col. Darron Wright, dep. comm. officer. “It's the partnership of the 2 colleges that will remain.”

One of 11 dairy cows stares at passersby, while it munches on locally-grown alfalfa hay in a paddock, at the University of Baghdad’s College of Veterinary Medicine.

-30-

USF-I

Deployed mom sees child graduate 

Written by Master Sgt. Tim Volkert

Sgt. 1st Class Esther Elliott, an intel planner with Army III Corps, celebrates from Camp Victory’s Al Faw Palace as her daughter, Elizabeth White walks across the stage to receive her high school diploma in Texas, June 5, 2010. Thanks to a partnership between Fort Hood and the area high schools, deployed parents are able to watch their children graduate live, via a video telecast of the event. (Army photos by Spc. Britney Bodner)

BAGHDAD - As her daughter’s name was about to be called, Sgt. 1st Class Esther Elliott nervously watched for her on the 2 78-inch monitors in Camp Victory’s Al Faw Palace.

Physically, she was about 7,300 miles away.  Emotionally, she was in the front row.  Wringing her hands, she slowly inched forward with each passing moment. When the name Elizabeth White was announced, and she moved across the stage to receive her high school diploma, a smile exploded onto Elliott’s face, her eyes filled with tears of joy, as she clapped and waved at the screen. 

“I wanted to jump out of my seat,” said Elliott. “In my mind I was saying ‘hurry up and walk across the stage so I can see you.’ It was a great, great moment. I was sitting on the edge of my seat.  I just kind of scooted up to the edge, just waiting for her to come out.  I almost fell off.  I knew it would be exciting and I’d be happy to see her, but I didn’t’ think I would have all those emotions run through me at once.”

“It’s really special.  For that one split second you actually forget where you are,” she said.  “For me, it was like I was there.  I was so into it, that I tuned everyone out.”

Thanks to “Gradcast,” a joint venture between the Killen Independent School District and Fort Hood, Texas, Soldiers and DA civilians who are deployed or training away from the area, are able to watch graduation ceremonies live via video teleconference.

When the student’s name is called and he or she walks the stage, the deployed parent is broadcast live back to the ceremony, both on a large screen for friends and family to see, as well as a monitor on stage so the graduate can also see their parent.

Elliott said that the fact that the school district and Fort Hood community cares enough to make the extra effort for deployed Soldiers means a lot. “It’s a huge, huge deal to me,” she said.  “It’s really important to think that someone actually cared enough to do something like this for us. It means more to us than anything.”

Elliott said that her daughter has been to several different schools, and has moved about 8 times during her life.  Each move brings with it transition; adjusting to new friends, a new educational system, a new life.  

“I think it made her a stronger person,” Elliott said. “It made her more outgoing. It made her more independent than she would've been if we would've stayed in the same place.”

With the ceremony complete, Elliott left the conference room with a new memory of her daughter, the high school graduate. “That couple of seconds meant so much to me,” Elliott said. “It’s going to be a couple of seconds that I’m going to remember for a long time.”

-30-

USF-I

MoD delegation extends support to Kurdish region

ERBIL - Key govt and military leaders from the GoI, the Kurdish region, and the U.S. gathered at the Kurdistan Regional Govt (KRG) Ministry of Interior, to discuss solutions for securing the northern Iraqi border against Iranian attacks, June 10.

PM Nuri Al Malaki directed Gen. Zeibari, IA Chief of Staff, Staff Gen. Gunbar, Dep. Chief of Staff for Ops, and Iq AF Cmdr staff Lt. Gen. Ameen to meet with Karim Sinjari, KRG Minister of Interior, and Sheikh Jaafer Mustafa, Minister of Peshmerga, and offer whatever help the KRG needs to ensure the safety of the Iraqi people in the region.

Although this meeting was entirely Iraqi-led, Babakir invited Army Lt. Gen. Michael Barbero, Dep. Comm. Gen. of USF - Iraq (Advising and Training) and AF Brig. Gen. Scott Hanson, Dir. of Iraq Training and Advisory Mission - AF, who offered operational advice.

Ameen offered to provide IqAF King Air flights to provide intel, surveillance and recon support in areas near the border, and suggested adding a mobile ground station, as a joint effort between the Ministry of Peshmerga and border guards.

"Iraq has shown their ability to do this," Hanson said. "Lt. Gen. Ameen's plan is good, and we're ready to support however we can."

The KRG and MoD leaders agreed to make active use of their liaison teams to enhance the exchange of info to improve cohesion between the different HQs.

"We're ready to receive all support," said Sinjari. "We're one Iraq, and we'll solve this diplomatically."

-30-

USF-I

Graduation Ceremony at the Iraqi Army Engineer School

TAJI - Iraqi carpentry, electrical and mechanical engr. soldiers began renovations on an empty warehouse, in order to build a new graduation hall at Camp Taji.

The students, part of the IA Engineer School, celebrated the beginning of the renovation, with a June 10 ribbon cutting ceremony.

During the initial renovations, the cadre and soldiers overcame factors such as acquisition of building materials, working in the extreme heat, construction practices, and an accelerated timeframe to complete the project.

"Cadre and Soldiers removed existing debris, helped with the design build for the project, estimated the required materials, and installed the support foundation, new flooring and stage," said Col. Jawad, IA Engineer School Cmdr.  During the ribbon cutting ceremony, Faleah said approx 200 to 250 Soldiers are expected to graduate from the school every 3-4 months.

Construction for Phase II is scheduled to begin in September, during the final month of the next Field Engineering Course.  Phase II training will include calculating necessary wood working calculations, estimating for electrical supply, erecting walls, and adding a drop ceiling.  Students will also be responsible for the overall furnishings, design and layout for the new facility.

"We had about 8 Rejoiner Soldiers from the old IA out here every day working alongside us, along with U.S. Soldiers who provided their expertise," said Sgt. Maj. Salah, crew leader for the IAES. "It was a one-of-a-kind feeling to nurture friendships with people from a different culture, while building something you know will be used to help others."

-30-

flickr

Eye to Eye

(Army photo by 1st Lt. Becky Bort) 

A man complaining of blurred vision gets checked by Army Sgt. 1st Class Ian Francis, plt sgt for HHC, 2nd Bn, 14th Inf Regt, 2nd BCT, 10th Mtn Div, during a medical aid mission to Mullah Fayyed, June 6, 2010.  Francis' unit set up a temporary medical clinic and pharmacy with over-the-counter drugs, where hundreds of local residents were seen and treated by Army doctors and medics.

-30-

Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/6-16

Dear Interested Reader,

FOB Ghazni treat female students after suspected poisoning.  Parwan PRT engrs assess new school.  Khowst PRT plans an addition to a boys' school.  Paktika PRT hosts governance training.

Iraq:  Medics proud of helping those in need.  New park bridges past to present near Arch of Ctesiphon.  Rumaitha area gets multiple upgrades.  Aid delivered to remote farming village.

Joanna

_____________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

RC-East in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

FOB Ghazni treat female students after suspected poisoning 

Story and photos by AF 1st Lt. Katherine Roling 

 

Ata Mohammed stands at the bedside of his niece, Soroya, June 12 at FOB Ghazni.  She and another girl were in the worst condition when at least 60 girls from Jahan Maleka High School in Ghazni City were affected by nausea, vomiting and unconsciousness, after a suspected poison gas insurgent attack.  Members of the 655th Forward Surgical Team treated the 2 girls, and decided they'd recovered well enough to go without ventilator support. 

GHAZNI PROVINCE -  “Initially, they thought it was the water, but because it had to do with respiratory issues, they think it was something in the vents,” said AF Maj. Kari Miller, the 655th Forward Surgical Team chief nurse.

An uncle, a cousin and the dep. gov. of Ghazni prov., Alhaj Allahyar, arrived with the girls at FOB Ghazni, concerned for their health.  All 3 men were convinced it was an insurgents’ attack, and the dep. gov. was not surprised that the insurgents would do something like this.

“We understand the enemy, and we're not surprised by this,” said Allahyar.  The 2 girls, both in the 9th grade, were Helena and Soroya.  Helena’s male cousin, Naim Ghazniwal, stood nearby while the medical staff administered initial treatment.

AF Lt. Col. John Kang, 655th FST chief surgeon, spoke to the relatives about the girls’ condition.  He assured them it was unlikely they would need to be put on a ventilator.  “Fear may have made the symptoms worse,” Kang told the family members. “They got nervous and started to hyperventilate. It was probably a gas pumped into the school, but we don’t know for sure.”

Both Ghaznilwan and Mohammed were going to allow the girls to go back to school, despite the fact that insurgents may have poisoned the all-girls school.
“Of course we'll let them go back to school,” said Ghaznilwan, as Mohammed nodded in agreement. “No matter what happens. The only solution for Afghanistan is to send everyone to school, men and women.”

The staff was not certain if it was a gas attack. “It could be a possible aerial agent, but we’re still not certain,” said AF Maj. Sean Glasgow, 655th FST surgeon.  “The fear of the attack may have amplified their symptoms.”

A water sample from the school’s well and blood samples from affected girls were provided earlier in the day.  Army Sgt. 1st Class Timothy Turner, Ghazni PRT medic had to wait for results.  “It will take at least 24-hours to see if the water was contaminated,” said Turner.

Naim Ghazniwal stands over his cousin, Helena, as AF Maj. (select) Anne Staley, 655th Forward Surgical Team emergency nurse, checks on her condition. 

-30-

RC-East in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Parwan PRT engineers assess school

Story and photos by AF Senior Airman Jim Araos

PARWAN PROVINCE –  Army Capt. Sungmin Kim, an engr with the USACE assigned to the Parwan PRT, assesses the Qal Eh Khojah Girls School, June 10. The PRT’s engrs inspect construction sites to ensure contractors are following the statement of work.  These assessments are done to ensure contractors follow safety specifications and construction requirements. The PRT inherited this project from a previous team deployed here.  The school’s projected completion date is currently December 2010. 

Army Spc. James Moss, Parwan PRT security element, stands guard during a school assessment. 

-30-

RC-East in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Khowst PRT plans an addition to Sadiq Rohee Boys' School

Story and photos by AF Senior Airman Julianne Showalter 

 

KHOST PROVINCE - Navy Lt. J.G. Anthony Delgadillo, Khost PRT engr, looks at the foundation for an addition to the Sadiq Rohee Boys' School with the site engr, June 10. The new building will provide 8 new classrooms, alleviating overcrowding for students. 

Navy Lt. Delgadillo discusses possible improvements to the school with the school’s engr. The school, located in the Mando Zayi district, teaches boys from elementary through high school age. 

Navy Lt. J.G. Delgadillo gives advice to the site engr, about adding additional mortar at the school construction site. 

-30-

RC-East in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Paktika PRT hosts governance training 

Written by AF 2nd Lt. Mark Lazane 

Melinda Witter, Paktika PRT’s U.S. Agency for Int'l Development foreign service officer, explains the schedule of events, during the 2-day line director and sub-gov conference held at the gov’s compound, in Sarana, June 9. (Photos by AF Master Sgt. Demetrius Lester)

PAKTIKA PROVINCE — The event garnered roughly 40 participants from throughout the prov., including the provincial gov., several provincial officials, and many of the district sub-govs.

 

“The purpose of the conference this week was to increase governance and citizen engagement skills to include dialogue, community mapping, and listening to citizens,” said Melinda Witter. 

 

The conference was the first phase of a tiered approach to capacity building in the prov.  Future planned training events will focus on more complex issues of governance, such as budgeting and proposal writing, monitoring, evaluating and reporting within specific lines of effort, and finally, provincial strategy planning, said Witter.

“This training is really going to bring up the capacity of local Paktika line directors and sub-govs of this prov.,” said Moheebullah Samim, the gov. of Paktika prov. “As far as I know, each line director and sub-gov. is an educated and intelligent person, but they still need this training to build capacity, in order for them to do their job correctly.”

Other Paktika provincial leaders also felt that the training was necessary and much appreciated. “I learned here how to develop a good relationship with the people I serve,” said Juma Mohammad, Paktika prov. dep. gov. “I also felt it was interesting to see how we can talk with people and engage in dialogue effectively. If we use what we learn here, we can communicate better with each other, and with our own communities.”

Melinda Witter conducts an exercise with various provincial and district leaders. 

-30-

IRAQI STORIES:

USF-I

Medics proud of helping those in need

Story and photo by Sgt. Phillip Valentine

Army 2nd Lt. Jen Wardynski, 1st Advise and Assist Bde, 3rd ID, speaks to a father about the health of his young daughter, during a joint medical engagement in the town of Qarghuli, south of Baghdad, June 1, 2010. 

BAGHDAD – As ISF secured the perimeter, members of 2nd Bn, 14th Inf Regt, 2nd BCT, 10th Mtn Div, and 1st Advise and Assist Bde, 3rd ID, visited the medical clinic. The event provided basic medical care and medicines for the residents, and displayed the American commitment of partnering with Iraqis.

"The medical engagement promotes better relationships between the 2 different cultures," said Spc. Tomas Martinez, a medic assigned to HHC, 2nd Bn. "I like helping people. That's why I chose to be a medic."

As residents arrived, they were routed to appropriate physicians based on their needs. Capt. Kathryn Payne, bn surgeon assigned to 1st Bn., 41st FA, 1st AAB, took care of the women and children.  As a pediatric physician, Payne said she enjoyed the opportunity to examine and interact with Iraqi youth.

"I enjoy seeing kids, so any chance I get to see them, I will;" she said, “even if it's just giving them some toothpaste and a toothbrush."  She said she hopes conducting missions such as this will influence the Iraqi people to think kindly of Americans, and continue working toward partnership with the U.S.

Staff Sgt. Christopher Whitaker, senior treatment NCO said that he also enjoyed helping the children. "We're here to do some good, and if we help in the long run, that's great," said Whitaker. "It's gratifying when people walk away with a smile."

2nd Lt. Jen Wardynski helped coordinate the medical side of the event.  She believes missions like this help foster stronger ties within the Iraqi communities.
"As we get closer to closing up and leaving, it's important to do all we can to leave on good terms," she said. "It's good for them to see Americans in the right light, not just the big guns."

-30-

USF-I

New park bridges Iraqi past to present

Story and photos by Spc. Rebecca Schwab

A U.S. Soldier stands in front of the Arch of Ctesiphon, built by the Persians, on the NE bank of the Tigris River, nearly 1,500 years ago in what is now Salman Pak, May 31, 2010. The arch used to be an important tourist attraction, and Iraqi authorities hope to revive that tourism in the coming years. 

BAGHDAD – Considered the oldest and largest free standing arch in existence today, some see the arch as a symbol for unity in Iraq; a bridge between its violent past and a peaceful future.

In the 6th century, Ctesiphon was the largest city in the world.  On the other side of the Tigris River sat its sister city, Seleucia.  After the Arab Muslims conquered the area from the Persians in 637 AD, they combined Ctesiphon and Seleucia, calling the area Al-Mada'in, or "the cities."

"A lot of the locals came here, and this was where they either burned or dumped their trash," said  Lt. Col. Michael Davey, dep. comm. officer for the 2nd BCT, 10th Mtn Div. "You had kids out here trying to play soccer,and walking through the trash field.  Now there's a place for families to eat; kids have things to play on; there's a parking lot, and there's a soccer field where they can have youth tournaments."

The hope, Davey said, is that tourism will be restored to the area, and that local families will have a clean, safe place to spend time together.  Local residents seem to share that sentiment.  Ali Haider has lived in the same house across from the new park for the past 30 years, and said he's very happy about the progress being made since the new park officially opened, June 1.

"It's gorgeous indeed," he said.  As you can see, we're very happy and proud of the progress that the U.S. forces have made here.  Now there's a soccer field, and a park where kids can actually play ball.  We're very happy and thankful."

The Mada'in Park, located in Salman Pak, near the Arch of Ctesiphon, was recently completed. 

-30-

USF-I

Rumaitha area gets multiple upgrades

Written by Staff Sgt. Christopher Jelle

A shot of the area in Rumaitha, before and after the construction of the new pedestrian bridge, May 27, 2010. The bridge, completed in April, separates pedestrian and vehicle traffic for a safer walk across the river. (Army photo by 1st Lt. Jeremy Aho)

MUTHANNA PROVINCE -- Iraqi and U.S. Forces recently completed 3 construction projects, providing residents with 6 new electrical power transformers, a new pedestrian bridge, and a school with a working sanitation system.

U.S. forces, working with the provincial govts, have constantly been building new structures and facilities that will bring a positive change to the people of Iraq, said Maj. Scott Vance, civil affairs officer.

The new transformers will extend electrical power to reach more than 100,000 people throughout the town of Rumaitha. This regular electrical service to businesses and schools will enhance the standards of living and education.

Large communities aren’t the only ones seeing help in the reconstruction effort. Smaller communities are seeing major improvements in their areas as well, said Vance.

U.S. forces recently facilitated the construction of a new school for the small village of Sayyed Allaq, NW of Rumaitha. There's approx a 37% literacy rate in the village, and children below the age of 8 weren’t able to go to school due to the lack of adequate facilities. Children 9 and older had to walk up to 3 miles to the nearest classroom before the completion of the new school last month, said Vance.

The school includes administrative offices, storage facilities, and a sanitation system. “The project has not only resolved these problems for the village of Al Sayyed, but it will also improve the literacy rate in the prov., and improve the overall economic growth of the area,” said Vance.

-30-

USF-I     

Aid delivered to remote farming village

Story and photo by Spc. Daniel Schneider

Spc. John Laursen, 2nd Bn, 14th Inf Regt, 2nd BCT, 10th Mtn Div, hands out water during a joint U.S.-Iraqi humanitarian aid mission to the Bashariyah district near Yusifiyah, June 4, 2010. (Army photo by Spc. Daniel Schneider)

BAGHDAD – Despite the stifling heat, Soldiers from 2nd BCT and the IA teamed up to bring a little relief to a remote, impoverished farming community.  Iraqi and U.S. Soldiers worked side-by-side to hand the food, water, toys and clothes out to villagers of all ages.

U.S. forces were present to advise and assist their IA counterparts as needed.
“The IA bn’s training, planning and ops section conducted the planning, selected the site, and provided their 1st Co to facilitate the drop, and 2nd Bn, 14th Inf. Regt., provided the packages to be delivered,” said Capt. Steven Kurvach, XO of Co D. “I was amazed at how extremely professional and orderly the IA were in performing the drop.”

In the last 2 weeks, Co D has conducted humanitarian aid missions every 3 or 4 days, but this was the 1st time they supplied this community with aid. “The people were visibly pleased to receive the water and food. The children – the abundance of smiles and laughter is testament to their satisfaction with the bags of toys,” said Kurvach.

The village in the Bashariyah area is a very small enclave, tucked away from the larger cities of Mahmudiyah and Yusifiyah. The people are farmers without the infrastructure, medical facilities or social services that are normally available in the larger cities. The GoI is trying to figure a solution to provide for these people, but the improvements will take time to accomplish, Kurvach said.

He also said he believes missions like this will help solidify the villagers’ trust in the IA, and generate support from the locals in countering AQI.  "If there're still Al-Qaeda operatives hiding out in Al Bashariyah, I believe the people will look to the IA for help.”

-30-

flickr

Introduction

(Army photo by Spc. Venessa Hernandez)

An Iraqi man introduces his baby to Army Sgt. 1st Class Josh Watson, 3rd Plt, Blackfoot Co, 2nd Bn, 23rd Inf Regt, as IP deliver humanitarian supplies near Taji, May 28, 2010. This op was part of Tomahawk Outreach, a 2-23 Bn op focused on organizing Iraqi assets and humanitarian assistance to help further integrate the GoI and ISF within the communities. 

-30-

Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/6-15

Dear Interested Reader,

Marines continue to patrol, amidst Taliban attacks.  Falcon Cafe's Soldiers operate largest dining facility.  Paktya leaders gather for regional peace shura.  Operational update, 6-13.

Iraq:  1st Bn., 116th Inf. Regt celebrates D-Day.  Rawhide Bde hands reins to Dragonslayers.  Adjusting to change before redeployment.  Suspected criminal assocs. arrested in Northern Iraq.  Suspected AQI member/criminal assocs. arrested in Mosul.

Joanna

____________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

DVIDS

Marines Continue to Patrol Amidst Taliban Attacks

Story by Lance Cpl. James Clark

Marines with the 81 mm Mortar Plt, Weapons Co, 1st Bn, 6th Marine Regt take a moment to rest while on patrol in Marjah, June 2. The Marines continue to patrol the city streets and meet with locals, in the hopes of forging lasting ties between city residents and CF.  

 

FOB MARJAH – The past month has been riddled with sporadic firefights and ambushes, frequently initiated by the blast of an IED or by sudden insurgent sniper fire. 

"With the last several weeks, these Marines have seen increased small-arms-combat, where the enemy isn't sticking around to fight," said Staff Sgt. Nelson Adames, plt sgt for the 81 mm Mortar Plt. "The enemy is testing us, learning our tactics.  They try to get mobility kills on vehicles, or target foot paths and bridges in an attempt to hit dismounted Marines.

"They're attempting to coax us into firing when civilians are here, so the progress that's been made with locals will be lost," said Adames.

The increase in Taliban activity can be seen as a sign that they've begun their spring offensive.  During this time, it's paramount that the Marines continue to place the safety of civilians as a top priority, lest they undue the months of work they've accomplished, since the initial days of fighting to take the city from Taliban control.

"Taking contact this late into the deployment brings morale down, mainly because we haven't seen any proof from our enemy that we've made a change," said Cpl. Joshua Hurst, a section leader with 81 mm Mortar Pt.  "With it being as hard as it is now, all we can really do is keep pushing, keep going out, and keep bringing the fight to the Taliban.  We're just trying to wrap, but keeping the people on our side is still the greatest challenge."

Staying focused and maintaining their momentum can be trying, but sometimes the little things can make the difference.  "Since the push, and up until now, it can be hard to keep morale up, especially when you're counting the days until you go home, but you do whatever you can," said Adames. "Hot chow, cold water during the day, and getting mail from home goes a long way. Try to keep them focused so they can do the little things and look out for their buddies.

"Their strength is tested day in and day out," said Adames. "A lot of times these Marines don't get the praise they deserve, but these are the best guys I've served with. Their families and friends back home should be very proud of them."

Even with the end so close, the Marines must maintain the same measure of professionalism they started the deployment with.  They must continue to meet with locals, continue to forge bonds and win their trust, because although the Marines will return home, the city's residents won't be leaving, but they'll be left with an impression.  

Cpl. Joshua Hurst, a section leader, patrols with his squad.

Marines step out on a foot patrol through Marjah.

Cpl. Joshua Hurst, a section leader, speaks with a villager.

A Navy corpsman watches as a father sits with his son near the road, prior to evening prayer.

Marines patrol past a compound, while a dog barks at them from underneath a wagon. 

Marines walk past a patch of farmland that was recently burnt down after the harvest. 

  

-30-

RC-East in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Falcon Cafe’s Soldiers operate largest dining facility

Story and photos by Army Spc. Monica Smith 

Army Spc. Christopher Mattingly, another cook with H&S Co, TF Workhorse, 3rd CAB, TF Falcon, grills steaks in a specially-built smokehouse, June 4, at Bagram Airfield. Mattingly works at Falcon’s Cafe, the largest Soldier-run dining facility in Afghanistan. 

BAGRAM AIRFIELD – “They expect more from us because we're Soldiers,” said Staff Sgt. LaJuane Lee, food service specialist and shift leader. “They expect us to be a 5-star restaurant in the field.  We work well with what we have, and we strive to meet those expectations.”

“One of the responsibilities we have is making sure we have quality and healthy meals for the Soldiers,” said Spc. Howard Ellsworth, a cook with HSC. 

With Fridays as the busiest night of the week, the dining facility serves about 1,500 meals; whereas on other nights the number is closer to a 1,000.  In order to prepare for the large dinner rush, Soldiers begin grilling steaks at 8:30 a.m. and work until 3 p.m. 

“We have more than 1,000 steaks that we grill,” said Ellsworth who, along with Spc. Christopher Mattingly, another cook, spend Fridays grilling steaks. “My biggest thing with the steak is making sure it tastes good, and that it looks like it came off a grill. We marinate them the night before to make sure juices have time to soak through and tenderize the meat.  Then we’re out here all day cooking them.” 

Though Fridays require additional work to prepare the steaks, Fridays are not the only day where cooks work long hours. Soldiers working at the dining facility may work 12-hours or more on any given day. “We work hard, and we get up earlier than most,” said Lee. “We're on a continuous work mode, because our mission is essential all the time.  I can get there at 4:30 a.m. and not leave till 5 or 6 p.m., but I enjoy the food industry.  I enjoy seeing the response of people eating.  I enjoy preparing food, the presentation, and seeing how different people create different meals.”

In addition to Friday’s speciality meal, the Falcon Cafe is also known for its burgers called, “Aviation Burgers,” a name reflecting the assets of TF Falcon. The burgers are handmade with cheese infused in the meat, and a special secret seasoning. 

“You have to really want the aviation burger to get it, and apparently everyone wants it, because the line for the burger wraps around the building,” said Army Spc. Bryce Hudgins. “In fact, the food service specialists will call out, ‘who isn’t waiting for a burger?’ and if you’re not eating a burger you get to jump to the front of the line.  I wait for the burger though.  Every other dining facility only makes the frozen, pre-made burgers, but these are handmade, so it’s like eating at a diner instead of a cafeteria.”

The Falcon Cafe also provides speciality meals including other favorites such as “Mexican Monday” and “Italian Wednesdays.” 

Spc. Christopher Mattingly seasons steaks.

 

Spc. Howard Ellsworth checks to ensure a steak has been cooked thoroughly.

-30-

RC-East in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Paktya leaders gather for regional peace shura

(Photos by Sgt. Abdul Raouf, 203rd Corps PA)

A leader from Paktya prov., talks with a reporter broadcasting the Voice of Peace Shura, live to a radio audience. Paktya-area leaders held the 1st regional peace shura in Chamkani, Paktya prov., June 10, following the Afghan National Peace Consultative Jirga, June 2 in Kabul.  ANA commandos and the 203rd Corps 2-3 Kandak provided security for the historical event. 

BAGRAM AIRFIELD – Numerous tribal elders and GoA officials from across Paktya attended the regional shura to show support for Afghan-led initiatives that create stability in the prov.

Even though the route leading to the event had been attacked by insurgent forces earlier in the day, more than 2,000 Afghan civilians still attended the event to discuss how to bring peace to the area.

A leader from Paktya prov., addresses some of the attendees of the Voice of Peace Shura. 

-30-

Blackanthem Military News

Operational Update June 13

By ISAF Joint Command - Afghanistan

ZABUL PROVINCE  - Afghan and ISAF detained several suspected insurgents, June 12. The SECFOR detained the men for further questioning, while searching a compound near the village of Daftani in the Shah Joy district. The team was pursuing a Taliban cmdr responsible for coordinating and assisting in direct fire attacks and complex ambushes against CF.

KUNDUZ PROVINCE - An Afghan-ISAF patrol discovered illegal drugs, weapons and ammo, and detained several suspected insurgents, June 11. The patrol discovered 128 kilograms of opium, 2,000 rounds of small-arms ammo, several assault rifles, and RPGs in a compound near the village of Emam Shahib, north of Kunduz city.  Village elders convinced the individuals to surrender peacefully. 

HELMAND PROVINCE - ANSF with ISAF partners conducted an op in the village of Chardah, June 11, to disrupt a Taliban network responsible for planning and conducting attacks against Afghan and ISAF forces, and for supplying materials used in constructing roadside bombs.

After surrounding the compound where the Taliban insurgents were suspected to be, Afghan Special Police ensured that all residents of the compound exited safely.  Multiple women and children were protected, while several suspected insurgents were detained.

-30-

IRAQI STORIES:

Blackanthem Military News

1st Bn., 116th Inf. Regt. celebrates D-Day

Story and photos by Sgt. Kimberly Johnson

Sgt. William Henderson, a chaplain asst with 1st Bn, 116th Inf Regt, 256th IBCT, 13th ESC, reads a prayer, June 6 at COB Adder, given by President Franklin D. Roosevelt to Soldiers in 1944 before the invasion of Omaha Beach in Normandy, France. The 116th Inf. Reg., 29th ID was the only NG regiment that participated in the beach landings on D-Day. 

COB ADDER - Soldiers celebrated their lineage, and honored Veterans during a ceremony, June 6, the 66th anniversary of D-Day.

The 116th Inf. Regt. was 1 of 4 NG regiments comprising the 29th ID, established during World War II, that were part of the initial invasion of Normandy.

"This day is huge for us, not only as a co., but as a bn," said 1st Sgt. Kevin Stewart, 1st sgt with A Co, 1st Bn. During the ceremony, Soldiers with 1st Bn. received a first-hand idea of what their predecessors endured during the Normandy invasion, by listening to Stewart read a letter written by Bob Slaughter, one of the survivors of D Co, 116th Inf. Regt., 29th ID, a unit that participated in the first wave of landings on the area of Omaha Beach, known as the "Dog Green" sector, according to Slaughter's official biography.

A prayer, offered to Soldiers on D-Day by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, was also read to the current Soldiers of 1st. Bn., 116th Inf. Regt.  In the prayer, Roosevelt said, "Our sons, pride of our nation, this day have set upon a mighty endeavor, a struggle to preserve our republic, our religion and our civilization, and to set free a suffering humanity ... They will be sore; tried, by night and by day, without rest, until the victory is won ... Men's souls will be shaken with the violences of war ... Some will never return.  Embrace these, father and receive them, they heroic servants..."

As the decades pass, World War II Veterans are dwindling in numbers, leaving their legacy to be remembered and retold by younger generations.  Maj. Michael Petterson, XO with 1st Bn., said he takes it upon himself to remind people of the more than 200 years of Army service and sacrifices made, and encourages Soldiers to learn, and relearn, the lessons of freedom.

"As an Army officer, I believe a lot of what the Army has gone through in the past, can be used to educate and teach Soldiers of the future," he said. "If time is taken to study what our Army has done and what it's accomplished, there's a realization the Army doesn't change much.  People are still the same.  A lot of them are driven by the same patriotism to serve their nation."

Petterson said it's important to remember the men and women in America's history who have done difficult things, and reminds Soldiers to keep that in mind as they deploy to Iraq.

"If you don't know that, you can get down and think you're going through a very unique situation," he said to Soldiers during the D-Day ceremony. "If you look at the regimental crest, the division patches you wear and the battle streamers, all those mean something.  The men and women who have gone before us have earned those things. The fact that this bn received a Presidential Unit Citation (during World War II) for its actions, means a lot to me to come out and help educate the Soldiers."

The decorations of the World War II Veterans from 116th Inf. Reg. are displayed in Bedford, Va., where the National D-Day Memorial is located. "The town of Bedford lost more Soldiers, per capita, than any other city," Stewart said. "I have the privilege of being the 1st sgt of that unit."

"If we were there and not here, the co. would go out in Class A uniform and participate in the memorial ceremony," he said. "Many of our Families are in Bedford, attending the ceremony today. It was important for us, today, to do something in honor of the men who fought and died that day."

1st Sgt. Kevin Stewart reads a letter written by a World War II Veteran from the 116th Inf. Regt. 

Maj. Michael Petterson (standing), speaks to Soldiers about the unit's role in the World War II invasion at Omaha Beach. 

-30-

Blackanthem Military News

Rawhide Brigade hands reins to Dragonslayers

Story and photos by Sgt. Kimberly Johnson

Soldiers render their salutes during the playing of the national anthem, June 9 during the transfer of authority ceremony at COB Adder.  During the ceremony, the 224th Sust Bde took over the mission from the 36th Sust Bde, 13th ESC. 

COB ADDER - Col. Lisa Costanza, cmdr of the 224th Sust. Bde., assumed command from Col. Sean Ryan, cmdr of the 36th Sust. Bde., both under the command of Brig. Gen. Paul Wentz, cmdr of the 13th ESC, who attended the ceremony.

"Our mission is to pick up where the 36th left off, and continue the fight to have a successful drawdown of forces and materials back to home station," said Command Sgt. Maj. Vickie Dunlap-Jones, command sgt maj of the 224th.

The lineage of the 224th, also known as the "Dragonslayers," dates back to World War II.  The unit earned the Presidential Unit Citation streamer for its actions from October 17, 1944 to July 4, 1945 in the Pacific theater of ops.

While the 36th, also known as the "Rawhide Brigade," leaves theater, the unit adds to its history of providing Soldiers to support OIF and OEF, Bosnia, Kosovo and Op Noble Eagle. 

"I'm so very proud of the professionalism of the Soldiers I've served with during this deployment," said Command Sgt. Maj. Elizabeth Shockley, command sgt maj of the 36th. "They didn't settle for the status quo. They accepted these challenges of working with limited resources to support the reduction of forces. They served living the Army values."

During the ceremony, Dunlap-Jones echoed Shockley's comment on the professionalism of the Soldiers in the 36th.  "I'd like to thank the 36th for their professionalism, their openness, their receptiveness and their commitment to our success in what they left us," she said. "It's unparalleled. If this is what any other unit experienced during their transfer of authority, there's no wonder that we're the greatest Army in the entire world, and I'm proud to be a part of it."

Col. Sean Ryan and Command Sgt. Maj. Elizabeth Shockley, case the brigade colors. 

Col. Lisa Costanza (second from left) and Command Sgt. Maj. Vickie Dunlap-Jones (fourth from left), uncase the brigade colors. 

Brig. Gen. Paul Wentz (right) speaks during the transfer of authority ceremony. 

-30-

Blackanthem Military News

Adjusting to change

By 4th IBCT Public Affairs

Forty-five Soldiers of the 2nd Bn, 16th Inf Regt, 4th IBCT, 1st ID, out of Fort Riley, Kan., learned suicide intervention and prevention skills during a 2-day Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training workshop, May 13 at COB Speicher. 

(Army photo by Sgt. Shantelle Campbell)

TIKRIT - As Soldiers prepare to return home from deployment, they also prepare for the change from the combat zone to home.  According to Ch. (Capt.) Thomas Kirchhoefer, the chaplain for the 701st BSB, 4th IBCT, 1st ID, out of Fort Riley, Kan., adjusting to change after a deployment is not an easy process.
   
To assist with this change, the redeployment process and reintegration back home, the Army has established the Deployment Cycle Support program.  This program helps to identify Soldiers and Families who may need assistance with the challenges associated with deployments, and provides military leaders the tools, resources and training they need to help with the reintegration process.
   
This is done through administrative actions, briefings, training and counseling for Soldiers while they are still in Iraq, and simultaneously for their families at home through the unit's rear detachment.
   
During the DCS process, Soldiers are given classes on the Army's Sexual Assault Prevent and Response Program, Reunion and Reintegration, Suicide Awareness and Prevention.  Soldiers also go through a series of health assessments which are designed to give medical care professionals the opportunities to evaluate the physical and behavior health of Soldiers.
   
Ch. Kirchhoefer, who is currently on his 3rd deployment - 2nd to Iraq, suggests that the best way to cope with the changes associated with redeployment is through communication between Soldiers and their loved ones.
   
"A lot of what we're doing with reintegration training is talking to Soldiers and telling them to start talking about their expectations with Family and friends; start talking about their hopes and dreams, and what they want to do," said Kirchhoefer.   

More than 250 Soldiers of the 2nd Bn, stood before their loved ones during a redeployment ceremony, May 23. 

-30-

USF-I

June 13, 2010

ISF arrest AQI criminal associates in northern Iraq

BAGHDAD - ISF arrested 6 suspected AQI criminal assocs during a joint security op, 42kms NE of Baghdad, June 13. 

-30-

USF-I

June 13, 2010

ISF arrest AQI member, criminal associates in east Mosul

BAGHDAD - ISF arrested a suspected AQI member and 3 criminal assocs during a joint security op in east Mosul, June 13. ISF and U.S. advisors searched multiple buildings for the suspected AQI member, who is allegedly involved in facilitation of foreign fighters.

-30-

flickr

Sky Warrior

(Army photo by Sgt. Mike MacLeod)

An OH-58D Kiowa Warrior helicopter with TF Saber, CAB, 1st ID, flies past the setting sun over Al Asad Air Base, May 21, 2010. The helicopter was participating in partnered training between the 82nd AD, and the 7th IA Div. 

-30-

Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/6-14

Dear Interested Reader,

Helping Now Zad locals help themselves.  Panjshir ETT prepares police for the future.  3-187 Inf FSC keeps things running.  Parwan PRT engrs inspect Sayaad and Niazi Road.

Iraq:  Patrol Base Doria transfer of Authority.  Al Mufarj aid drop.  TF 38 transfers authority to CAB, 1st ID.  AQI criminal assocs killed/wounded/arrested in central Iraq.

Joanna

______________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

DVIDS

Helping Now Zad Locals Help Themselves

Story by Cpl. Daniel Blatter

Eric Motz, (right), Navy chief hospital corpsman, the senior dept medical rep for Alpha Co, 1st Bn, 2nd Marine Regt, RCT 2 interacts with curious locals as they walk by the new Now Zad female medical clinic, June 7.  With the old medical clinic having only a small female area and just a few beds to treat patients on, the opening of the new clinic is going to provide 2 more beds, increasing the towns ability to treat and care for those in need.    

NOW ZAD – The population of Now Zad is growing at a rapid rate.  However, if the town's medical facility doesn't grow with the population, the people won't be able to get the care they deserve.

"There's virtually no health care here," said Chief Eric Motz. "They only have 1 doctor and a pharmacist, and when I went through their medicine, over 3/4 was expired."  Motz is in the process of getting the word out about the condition of the medical facilities here.

"I'm doing a medical assessment so the senior officers can get Now Zad what they need to survive," said Motz. "The medical clinic has only 1 trauma room and a female area with only 1 bed." 

"Right now the Now Zad area has more than 2,000 populous, and it's growing daily," said Motz. "My goal is to give them a solid foundation that they can build from.  It's one thing to give them everything they need and say 'go fourth and do great things,' but if you give them a solid foundation and let them take ownership of it, they will turn around and build from it.  I'm just giving them a leg to stand on."

Motz and his team have spent the past 2 weeks clearing and working on a storage space next to the old clinic, which now houses 2 extra trauma beds to be used by local women.

"There's a big cultural issue with treating the males with females in the same clinic," said Maj. Richard Graham, the civil affairs team leader with Alpha Co. "It's important to create separation so the females will feel safe and not worry about getting harassed."

"I dedicated the women's medical center to the female patients," said Motz. "That will open up the space for another trauma room in the old clinic as well.  The ultimate goal here is to get the people to trust the doctor and the health care here, and to get to where they don't rely on us for medical care," Motz continued. 

The Navy team will soon be starting reconstruction on the old clinic as well. They envision turning the old, 2-bed clinic into a 4-bed clinic and supplying both the women's and men's' clinics with all the equipment and supplies required to treat all patients in need.   

Eric Motz, (right), and Lance Cpl. Brandon Gross, a pointman for 3rd Plt, place a "now open" sign above the door of the Now Zad Medical Clinic, June 7. They also placed a sign above the door of the newly remodeled female clinic, as it's now open. 

-30-

RC-East in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Panjshir ETT prepares police for the future

Story and photos by Army Sgt. John Young

 

Sgt. Richard Yoon and members of the ANP provide first aid to a mannequin, May 18. The officers use the skills they learned from the 86th IBCT’s ETT to be first responders to incidents and accidents. The ETT is teaching the police so they can go out to surrounding districts and teach other officers the skills they've learned.

PANJSHIR PROVINCE – When the ETT arrived, they knew the ANP had training in basic skills, but they wanted to focus on the needs of the Panjshir valley. “We had to start at ground zero when it came to community policing in many areas, in order to effectively enforce the laws around here,” said Sgt. 1st Class Stephen Jennings, an infantryman assigned to the 86th IBCT ETT.  

After only 2 months at FOB Lion, the team has graduated the 1st class of ANP in advanced police tactics.  “Once we finish here, we plan on introducing more advanced classes on rescue techniques and medical training, because there's a tremendous amount of car accidents here. Up until now, there's not been the ability to go and help the victims and stabilize them,” said Jennings.  “Police in other countries have the ability to give first aid until medical help arrives, and that's what we have in mind,” added Jennings. 

The mission to take the police force to the next level is not without its challenges. “We've people who can’t read or write, and we've some educated people,” said Jennings. “We're trying to level out the group, so all of the police force has the ability to function effectively for the people.” 

Another challenge for the ETT is the competing demands for the police officers’ time, as they also have to work their regular shift. “There's a finite time that we have to teach them.  Most days it is about 3 to 4 hours, and there's just so much you can teach in that amount of time,” said Jennings. 

Despite all the challenges, the ETT trainers were surprised by the amount of enthusiasm the ANP have toward learning new skills.  “It's been very impressive; they're like open books and eager to learn. They like action, so we keep the classroom time to a minimum, and we get them out doing things hands on,” said Jennings.
 
“My goal when I got here was to leave them with not only the basics in police work, but to get them to go beyond the basics with rescue skills, because they've earthquakes, avalanches and car accidents here,” said Jennings, an instructor at Vermont NG’s Mountain Warfare School. “The police have to get to the scene and assess the problem without further endangering anyone else’s life.”

The trainers envision this to be a perpetual process – a sort of “training-the-trainers” concept of doing things.  “We want them to have the skills to go forward with what we teach them, and train the next generation of officers,” said Jennings. 

The ETT is in the process of getting a core group of the Panjshir police together, to go out to other districts and teach the lessons they learned.  The 86th IBCT ETT takes great pride in the positive direction the training has had thus far.

“We can see progress every time we go out,” said Jennings. “Everyone here wants to improve the valley, and we're happy to be here, and to do our part.  We'll be sad to leave, because of the strong friendships we've made in the short time we've been here.”

Members of the ANP process a mock crime scene. 

-30-

RC-East in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

3-187 INF Forward Support Co keeps things running

Written by Army 1st Lt. R.J. Peek

Soldiers with Forward Support Co, 3rd Bn, 187th Inf Regt, 3rd BCT, 101st AD, routinely move containers at small COPs throughout Paktika Prov. The FSC provides basic logistical support to maneuver units who are stationed away from main installations. 

FOB SHARANA – The Soldiers of FSC are the bn’s workhorses who use herculean efforts to keep things running. The FSC is critical to keeping the Soldiers fed and supplied with ammo. They also repair parts and other materials, all while conducting recovery ops for damaged or stuck vehicles. 

FSC’s maintenance plt has repaired many damaged vehicles, even devoting time to repair the ANSF High Mobility Multi Wheeled Vehicles, said Army Staff Sgt. Gerals Bruse, an FSC mechanic. 

“Our job is not often glorified, but without us, the Soldiers miss out on key quality-of-life opportunities,” said Army Sgt. Ettienne Ray, an FSC mechanic.

The FSC mechanics are also responsible for keeping the generators running on all of the FOBs and district centers in western Paktika Province.  Ray and his team have repaired or replaced 18 different generator systems during the past 4 months.  

The FSC Soldiers also conduct combat logistics patrols (CLPs)in order to resupply the companies with their basic essentials: food, water, ammo and repair parts.  The CLPs are conducted 3 or 4 times a week to the required FOBs.

Additionally, the Soldiers are always on call to conduct combat recovery of a damaged vehicle; a task completed 10 times so far, said Army Sgt. 1st Class Shawn Murk, FSC plt sgt. “When the larger ops are conducted, such as the 100-vehicle convoy to Kushamond, or the op to clear routes of all destroyed vehicles and other debris, the other jobs do not stop,” said Army Sgt. 1st Class Cornelius Patterson, the FSC motorpool NCO-in-charge.  “FSC is expected to fill all roles, and we never let them down.”

-30-

RC-East in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Parwan PRT engineers inspect Sayaad and Niazi road

Story and photos by Army Sgt. Charles Espie

PARWAN PROVINCE – Craig Marshall, an USACE construction rep with the Parwan PRT, measures a hole in the Sayaad and Niazi road, June 9. The road is one of the most important projects the GoA is working on in Parwan. The PRT provides guidance and assistance to the provincial govt. 

Capt. Sungmin Kim, a civil structural engr with the Parwan PRT, inspects a hole in the Sayaad and Niazi road while Craig Marshall photographs it. 

-30-

IRAQI STORIES:

Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq 

Patrol Base Doria Transfer of Authority

(Navy Photos by Petty Officer 1st Class Dave Hites)    

PATROL BASE DORIA - Army Col. Larry Swift, 1st Bde, 1st AR Div Cmdr, talks with local sheiks, near Kirkuk, June 4.  Soldiers from 6th Sqdrn, 1st ACR, turned over the base to ISF as part of a phased withdrawal from the region.

A newly baked cake commemorates the turnover of Patrol Base Doria.  

An Iraqi Brig. Gen. accepts the "key" to Patrol Base Doria from an Iraqi civilian official.

Army Lt. Col. Brian McHugh, cmdr of 6th Sqdrn, smiles after handing over the "key."

-30-

Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq

Al Mufarj Aid Drop 

Photos by Sgt. Shawnon Lott

AL MUFARJ - Army 1st Lt. Jonathon Tishman and Staff Sgt. Rodolfo Rodriguez, both of 2nd Plt, Bravo Co, 2nd Bn, 14th Inf Regt, 2nd BCT, 10th Mtn Div, take a moment to pose for a picture with some neighborhood children, during a humanitarian effort by Iraqi soldiers, at a school in Al Mufarj, Baghdad, June 1.  U.S. Soldiers provided security and assistance, as the Iraqi soldiers handed out bags of food, toys and learning materials.    

Iraqi soldiers hand out bags of food, toys and learning materials. 

The Iraqi cmdr hands out contact info during a humanitarian effort. 

-30-

DVIDS

Task Force 38 Transfers Authority to CAB, 1st ID

Story by Sgt. Elizabeth Gorenc

Indiana Army NG Col. David Wood, left, and Command Sgt. Maj. John Watson, the cmdr and top enlisted Soldier for the 38th CAB, encase the unit's colors during a transfer of authority ceremony, June 7, at JBB. The bde, organized as TF 38 during its 10-month Iraq deployment, executed more than 4,600 tactical missions, more than 26,000 flight hours, and safely transported more than 80,000 passengers, and more than 7 million-lbs of time sensitive cargo.    

JOINT BASE BALAD -- TT 38 transferred authority of its corps-level aviation mission to CAB, 1st ID.  TF 38 cmdr, Col. David Wood thanked the Soldiers who worked to make those missions successful, that helped stabilize Iraq.

"The shift in OIF from combat to stability ops is what success in Iraq looks like," said Wood during his ceremony speech. "Iraq's forming a new govt, and ISF are increasing their capacity. Iraq's march toward stability and self-reliance are a result of your determination and hard work. Your efforts directly impacted the stability of the region and the security of the U.S.".

Wood also thanked 1st Bn, 137th AR; 3rd Bn, 158th AR; 244th Aviation Bde; A Co, 1st Bn, 52nd AR; B Co, 1st Bn, 214th AR; C Co, 7th Bn, 158th AR; and 597th Ordnance Co; which organized to make the TF 38 missions happen.

"These units formed a cohesive TF fully embracing the mission of supporting the ground cmdr," said Wood. The CAB, 1st ID, HQ at Camp Taji, assumed those missions with the transfer of authority, and is set to become the only Army aviation HQ unit in Iraq.

The unit's cmdr, Col. Frank Muth, remarked on how his unit will complete the missions. "This will be accomplished by the privates, the sgts, the warrant officers, the junior leaders doing the right thing, making decisions, instilling pride and enforcing the standards and discipline," said Muth during his ceremony speech.

He also commented on the breadth and scope of his unit's responsibilities.  "As the largest Army aviation formation in history conducting ops across a vast area, we must entrust our Soldiers and empower our leaders to make decisions, find efficiencies and develop systems that ensure mission accomplishment," said Muth. "Of course, while doing this, never forgetting what we do is always focused in support of the Soldier on the ground."

The CAB, 1st ID consists of more than 230 aircraft and approx 3,600 Soldiers.  According to Muth, they will cover an area as long as California, and as wide as Texas during their deployment in Iraq.   

-30-

USF-I

AQI criminal associates killed/wounded/arrested 

BAGHDAD - During an op conducted approx 60 kms south of Baghdad, June 12, ISF received fire after instructing the occupants to exit the building in which they were located.  SECFOR returned fire in self-defense, killing 2 and wounding 2 criminal assocs.  Info and evidence gathered at the scene led Iraqi forces to identify and arrest 5 criminal assocs of the warranted AQI leader.

ISF and U.S. advisors also searched a building during a 2nd op conducted approx 15 kms west of Baghdad.  Info and evidence gathered at the scene led Iraqi forces to identify and arrest 2 additional criminal assocs of the warranted AQI leader.

-30-

flickr

Have a Ball

(Army photo by Spc. Matthew Lestikow)

Army 1st Lt. Jeremy Lewis, plt leader, 3rd Plt, Bravo Btry, 2nd Bn, 3rd FAR, 1st HBCT, 1st AD, gives a young boy a soccer ball, during a visit to Saqizly, May 8, 2010.  The Soldiers visited the village to speak with residents about security conditions in the area.  

-30-

Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/6-13

Dear Interested Reader,

Forces from 3 nations deliver school supplies in Paktika prov.  Forces conduct air assault to Zwaka.  Soldiers visit refugee camp in Laghman prov.   Inspiring Kosovo-born Marine becomes U.S. citizen.

IRAQ:  Twin brothers reunite  at FOB Sher Wali.  Law and order enforced at COB Speicher.  298th SMC receives combat patch.  Suspected AQI leader, assoc., arrested near Kirkuk.

Joanna

_______________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Forces from 3 nations deliver school supplies in Paktika Province

Story and photos by Army Staff Sgt. Whitney Hughes 

Afghan school children smile after being given school supplies during a humanitarian aid op facilitated by Soldiers of the 4th Plt, Co D, 3rd Bn, 172nd Inf Bn and embedded Macedonian Army Rangers, at the Sar Hawza village school, June 8. They handed out 40 boxes of supplies to 400 hundred students in the village. 

PAKTIKA PROVINCE – Although the children sat patiently in their seats, the looks of anticipation were written all over their wide-eyed faces, as they eagerly watched SECFOR from 3 nations hand out colorful backpacks.

“This is the way that we can do something for this country.  If the kids go to school and learn, after a few years they'll carry laptop computers and not weapons,” said Macedonian Army 1st Lt.  Karanfilov from Skopje, info ops officer. 

“It made the children happy, and I hope they can come again and bring more next time,” said Tajuddin Samar, a Sar Hawza school official.  Samar said that he's very grateful for the supplies, and that he thinks they'll help the children in their studies. 

The supplies came from D Co’s HQ at FOB Rushmore, and they worked with the ANP and school officials to coordinate the distribution.  Donating school supplies to the students in Sar Hawza shows that CF are here to help, but ultimately shows the lasting role the ANSF, like the ANP, must play in developing the country, said Army 2nd Lt. Dan Silver, the plt leader for 4th Plt, D Co.

“Our mission was completed successfully today, because we found out a lot about students, teachers and classrooms,” said Karanfilov.  When the distribution was complete, the Soldiers sat down with school officials and village elders to find out how they could help the children in the future. The elders asked them for more supplies for the girls’ school in the village, which the Soldiers plan to bring on their next trip.

“I have supplies here, so that will definitely happen,” said Karanfilov.  Not only was the mission a success for the children, but it was also a meaningful experience for the Soldiers involved. “I like hanging out with the little kids,” said Army Spc. David Carrier, an infantryman with D Co. “Doing missions like these is a nice break from the daily combat ops, and it was one of the best memories I will take away from Afghanistan.”

An ANP hands out school supplies. 

Army Spc. David Carrier, an infantryman, hands food to a school child. 

Macedonian Army Capt. Turturov talks to a school.

-30-

CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

ANSF, A Co. 3-187th conduct air assault to Zwaka

Written by Army 1st Lt. RJ Peek 

Soldiers with Co A, 3rd Bn, 187th Inf Regt, 3rd BCT, move through Zwaka village, Omna district, June 8, during a combined air assault op with ANSF.

PAKTIKA PROVINCE – The op was in response to reports of insurgents using the village as a safe haven and storage area for weapons, said Army Capt. Joshua Powers, Co A, cmdr.  

The combined team detained 4 suspected insurgents, and confiscated one AK-47 and multiple documents. “It was a successful mission in which the National Directorate of Security (NDS) and ANP identified 2 known insurgents, and ended up capturing 4 people from the objective,” said Army Staff Sgt Justin Buckner. 

“Additionally, we spoke with the elders about govt within Paktika prov., and possible insurgent influence within the village,” said Army 1st Lt. Marcus Smith, plt leader.  Smith said that he was pleased with the results of the op, and always appreciates removing enemy combatants from the fight.

“The search of Zwaka Village was conducted very professionally by the Paktika police and NDS agents.  As a result, we have intel to conduct future ops, and the Omna district is a little safer,” said Army Lt. Col. David Fivecoat, cmdr of 3rd Bn, 187th Inf.  “We look forward to more ops like this with our Afghan partners.” 

-30-

Joint Combat Camera Afghanistan

US, Afghan Soldiers Visit Mehtar Lam 

Photos by Spc. Victor Egorov

MEHTAR LAM -  Army Maj. Allan Gillman greets an Afghan girl with a hand shake during TF Iron Grey's visit to a refugee camp outside Mehtar Lam City, Laghman prov., June 2.  

ANA Soldiers hand out 1000 radios to the residents. The goal of radio distribution is to bring the population of the refugee camp in closer contact with Afghan govt. 

U.S. Army Soldier entertains local Afghan children, while providing security at Mehtar Lam Bazar, during dismounted presence patrol through downtown. The goal of the patrol is to bring the sense of security to residents. 

A U.S. Army Soldier shakes hands with a small Afghan boy.

-30-

DVIDS

Kosovo-born Marine Becomes US Citizen 

Story by Lance Cpl. Khoa Pelczar

(Left) Lance Cpl. Betim Neziri, supply clerk with H&S Co, 1st Marine Logistics Group (Fwd), and Gunnery Sgt. Michael Baird, 37, supply chief with H&S.   

BAGRAM AIR FIELD – With just a few dollars in his pocket, a Kosovo native came to the U.S. to chase his dream of providing his family with a better life.  Lance Cpl. Betim Neziri became a U.S. citizen in a naturalization ceremony at Bagram Air Force Base, June 3.

"On June 14, 2005, I came to the U.S. with $20 in my pocket," said Neziri, 29, from Prishtina, Kosovo. "I had nobody, I had nothing.  I bought a calling card so I could call home to let my family know that I'm okay.  I also bought a pack of cigarettes and a hot dog, and that was it; I was flat broke."

Arriving in NYC, he was a long way from home, he explained.  He had nothing and nowhere to stay, but he was determined to achieve his goal.  He went to the YMCA and stayed there for a while. They offered him a job as a summer camp counselor for 3 months in Rhode Island.

Neziri's boss, Gunnery Sgt. Michael Baird, supply chief with H&S Co, 1st MLG (FWD), is amazed at how far he's come. "It gives me chills to hear him talk about his life up to this point, about the Marines and becoming a U.S. citizen, about what he's done, and what he's accomplished," said Baird.

With enough money saved up from being a counselor, Neziri bought a cell phone and contacted his cousin in Houston, Texas.  He went to stay with her for a year and enrolled in college. The high tuition cost made it hard for him to financially support his family back in Kosovo, so he dropped out and moved to Dallas, where he met and married his wife. They moved to Reno, Nevada to be near his wife's family.

Neziri witnessed Marines help liberate the war-torn country of Kosovo in 1999.  He decided to give back, and he joined the Marine Corps, July 13, 2009.  "I wanted to give back for what they've done for me, my family and my nation," he said.

According to Baird, Neziri is mature and focused on his job, overseeing all of the gear and equipment in the 1st MLG (FWD) supply warehouse. He knows exactly what he wants out of life, and he's determined to get it, his boss observed. 

"It makes me proud to be an American," said Baird, who's humbled to see Neziri, who had nothing, become a U.S. Marine and a U.S. citizen. "To see that we're allowing good people to have the opportunity to come here and become better…I'm honored to witness it all. It gave me chills just listening to it all and imagining what it would be like to be in his shoes."

The naturalization ceremony for service members is held twice a year, Memorial Day and Veteran's Day, explained Petty Officer 1st Class John McBroom, NCO-in-charge of Client Services and Legal Assistance at Bagram Air Field. Seventy service members were naturalized at the ceremony on June 3, said McBroom, 36.  He said he's never experienced anything like this in his 10 years of service.

"It's a special experience," said McBroom. "It means a lot that people who came from other countries want to be part of America.  I've guys who lost their arms and legs from IED attacks, and they're apologizing to me because they can't be here. They're not even Americans yet, and they're putting their lives on the line for me.  I'm proud of them, and I hope they can live their dreams in America." 

Neziri is happy knowing he can finally live "The American Dream," alongside his Marine Corps brothers and sisters.  "As I'm holding the certificate in my hands, I still can't believe that it's true," said Neziri. "It's an honor and a privilege to be a U.S. citizen. It's a dream come true. It doesn't get any better than this.  I just wish my wife and family were here to share this moment with me."

-30-

IRAQI STORIES:

DVIDS

Brothers Reunite at FOB Sher Wali

Story by Lance Cpl. Tommy Bellegarde

Lance Cpls. Aaron (left), and Adam Voelker, both 19 and machine gunners - Aaron with the Combined Anti-Armor Team, Weapons Co, 3rd Bn, 6th Marine Regt; Adam with Bravo Co, 1st Bn, 6th Marine Regt; pose for a photograph at FOB Sher Wali, Marjah, Helmand prov., June 6. The Voelkers, twin brothers, reunited for the first time in almost 5 months, after supporting Op Moshtarak in Marjah, with their respective bns.   

FOB SHER WALI – Like many twin brothers, Lance Cpls. Aaron and Adam Voelker do everything together.  As children and throughout high school, the 2 played on the same sports teams. When one joined the Marine Corps, the other decided he was going to do the same. They're both machine gunners. The brothers even deployed to Helmand prov., within weeks of one another to partake in Op Moshtarak with their respective bns.

"This deployment has actually been the first time we've ever been apart from each other," said Aaron. "We were rack mates at boot camp and the School of Infantry.  At SOI, they didn't want us in the same plt, but we both ended up going machine gunner, so we got put together — again."

Even after Adam left for Afghanistan in Dec., the twins met up again at Camp Dwyer, Helmand prov., in Jan., as both bns were preparing to push into Marjah. "I'd be on a patrol or on post and hear stuff popping off in 3/6's AO all the time," said Adam. "It's nerve-racking, but kind of cool to think, 'hey, that's my brother."  The brothers continued to do missions with their respective bns., and remained separated for almost 5 months. Then, a unique opportunity presented itself.

"Convoys are always going back and forth between our FOB and 3/6's," said Adam. "My 1st sgt knows that I've a brother with 3/6, and he basically just said, 'if you want to jump on the convoy, your brother's going to be at FOB Sher Wali.'  He really hooked it up for me."

"I was sleeping when I heard somebody come into my tent this morning, and start calling my name," said Aaron. "I opened my eyes and saw that it was my brother standing there.  I got up and dressed faster than I had ever before.  In 5 months, a lot has happened. I wanted to get all the stories out," added Aaron. "I wanted to see how he's been, find out what's been going down in southern Marjah, tell him what's been going on in northern Marjah."

Despite being separated for the majority of their deployments, the brothers feel blessed to have both taken part in the push of Marjah.  "After being over here, going home and seeing family is going to be great, but you can only tell them stories and they can only listen," said Adam. "They're not going to know how things really were.  It will be cool to be able to go to my brother and say, 'hey remember that one time?' and he's going to be able to relate.

-30-

DVIDS

Law and Order Enforced at COB Speicher

Story by Spc. Jessica Zullig

Sgt. Jason Keller, NCO-in-charge for the search team, 108th MP Co (AASLT) out of Fort Bragg, N.C., sends a radio transmission to let service members at the Provost Marshal's Office know that he has cordoned off the area affected by indirect fire at COB Speicher, June 5.    

COB SPEICHER – The dead silence of a dark, summer Iraq night is interrupted by a sudden, stern knock on the door of a containerized housing unit.  "Housing; military inspection. There are dogs present.  Make no sudden or aggressive gestures," announces the billeting mgr of KBR housing compound.

As the tenants of the CHUs exit their rooms, the 7-man search team, 108th, assisted by 3 Military working dogs and counter intel personnel, respectfully search the living areas for violations of policies and General Order No. 1, which are prohibited activities for Soldiers.  "Their mission is to reduce the number of General Order No. 1 violations, and bring the threat of info spillage down," said Sgt. 1st Class John Perry, 108th provost sgt.

Sgt. Jason Keller and his Soldiers are accustomed to late nights. This small group of Soldiers manage a big mission – inspecting all non-military personnel businesses and housing areas spread across the large base. "In the beginning, it felt like I didn't have enough personnel to complete our mission," said Sgt. Keller.   However, it's all time mgt, and come to find out, yes, we do have time.

During the 3 months the search team has been in theater, they've already completed 75% of their search area.  These long days allow the Soldiers to bond and grow together as a team. "We've definitely developed closeness," said Keller. "We're the same platoon we were in the rear, just in different squads.  Of course with deployments, it brings Soldiers and NCOs closer together."

Force protection inspections are the main mission of the close-knit Soldiers of the search team, but they also have other duties.  As MPs, they also respond to emergencies, such as indirect fire.  In the event that IDF occurs, the team and their internal medic is available to cordon off the affected area and prevent casualties. They direct traffic in and out of the area until a base response force and an EOD team arrives.

The search team is a vital part of maintaining force protection at COB Speicher. Their inspections enforce law and order and help prevent espionage by confiscating media devices in the hands of unauthorized personnel.  "The search team has added something to force protection that couldn't be done without them," said Perry. 

Sgt. Jason Keller, NCO-in-charge for the search team, searches a duffle bag for contraband. 

-30-

DVIDS

298th SMC Receives Combat Patch

Story and photos by Pfc. David Christian

Sgt. Christopher Garhart, the 298th Support Maintenance Co (SMC), 13th CSSB, 13th ESC info mgt officer, receives his combat patch from his squad leader, Staff Sgt. Timothy Winters, the communications and electronics repair shop foreman.

JOINT BASE BALAD — Soldiers with the 298th SMC out of Altoona, Pa., received the 316th ESC shoulder sleeve insignia-former wartime service, May 15 in a ceremony here.

The ceremony awarding the SSI-FWTS, or combat patch, a tradition dating back to the Revolutionary War, was held in the JBB Field Maintenance Facility, where the 298th SMC conducts vehicular, generator, electronic and general equipment repairs. 

"It was inspirational," said Pfc. Tricia White, a wheeled vehicle mechanic. "Hearing the history of the patch made me feel like I'm a part of that history now."  This is the first deployment for White and many others in the unit.

"The Soldiers here on their 1st deployment, as well as those who have deployed before, now share a common bond — a patch that binds them in brotherhood," said Sgt. 1st Class Douglas Danilson, automotive NCO-in-charge with the 298th SMC.

The unit patch is a white disc within a 1/8" red border and a blue and red compass representing the worldwide deployability and readiness of the 316th ESC.  It includes a white Fleur-De Lis, representing the Tenn. State flower, and the City of Knoxville, the original home of the command.

"I felt a lot of pride and accomplishment when the 316th patch was placed on my shoulder," said Pfc. Wayne Saunders, an electronic device repairman with the 298th SMC.  With the patch ceremony marking the end of the first 60 days in country, the Soldiers of the 298th look forward to continuing their mission.

-30-

US-I

ISF arrest AQI leader, criminal associate in northern Iraq

BAGHDAD – ISF arrested a suspected AQI leader during a joint security op 5 kms SW of Kirkuk, June 11.  ISF and U.S. advisors conducted a vehicle stop to apprehend a suspected AQI leader with ties to other senior leaders, and who is allegedly responsible for providing financial support and facilitating explosives for AQI.  Info and evidence gathered at the scene led Iraqi forces to identify and arrest the warranted leader, and a suspected criminal assoc.

-30-

Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/6-12

Dear Interested Reader,

Macedonia Rangers partner with TF Avalanche in Paktya prov.  Arzu Studio Hope seeks to improve quality of life for women.  TF Wolverine conduct Psyop mission in Parwan prov.  The 401st MP Co. patrols Mirsaleh.

Iraq:  TF Wings celebrates Asian Pacific-American Heritage month at COB Speicher.  Engr. Corps projects to increase IP presence in Mosul.  Healthcare provided to Anbar town of Kusaybah.  River Police graduates rise above sectarian barriers.  Suspected AQI leader arrested in Mosul.

Joanna

______________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

Combined Joint TF - 82 PAO

Macedonia Rangers Partner With TF Avalanche 

Story by Staff Sgt. Whitney Hughes

Army 2nd Lt. Dan Silver, plt leader of 4th Plt, D Co, 3rd Bn, 172nd Inf Regt smiles as his Macedonian counterpart Capt. Turturov, cmdr of the Macedonian Ranger Plt from Skopje, Macedonia, shakes hands with an ANA soldier during a patrol, June 5. The Macedonians are embedded with the D Co Soldiers of the Vermont NG as part of their state Partnership for Peace Program. They're the 1st state partnership involved in the program to embed and run combat ops.   

PAKTYA PROVINCE - True to their motto "Always a step ahead," the soldiers of Ranger Bn are forging new ground with their U.S. partners.  The plt of Macedonian Rangers are embedded with the 172nd Inf., at the Sar Hawza district center, where they conduct daily combined ops with ANSF to provide security and help train and mentor them.

"We're always proud to be soldiers for our country, but now we're soldiers for other countries also," said Macedonian army Staff Sgt. 1st Class Gjorgjeav, 1st sgt.  "It's a great pleasure to work shoulder-to-shoulder with the Americans," said Macedonian army 1st Lt. Karanfilov, a team cmdr from Skopje, Macedonia.

Three months into their mission, the combined team members have found their rhythm, conducting multiple patrols each day with their Afghan partners.  Despite the triple language barrier, the Soldiers have been able to build a working relationship, not only with each other, but also with the ANP who also live on their joint COP.  "We're pretty tight with them. We've passed a working relationship to a friendship.  If we didn't like each other this wouldn't work," said 2nd Lt. Dan Silver.

Their living conditions at the district center have also played a large role in strengthening their bond.  The Macedonian and U.S. Soldiers not only work together, but they eat, sleep and live together.  In addition, their Afghan police partners live only a few feet away, and host a tri-national dinner almost nightly.

The result of the bond they've built was evident during a recent escort patrol the U.S. and Macedonian team conducted with the ANP.  They told ANP Chief Khan they could continue without his team.  After meeting up with the ANA further down the route, Silver turned around and saw Khan and his team had followed to ensure they made it safely.

"This is my 2nd tour and he (Khan) is the best Afghan soldier or policeman I've ever worked with," said Sgt. 1st Class Matthew Hill,  plt sgt. 

The combined team has 5 villages in its area of responsibility.  In the villages, the mission is to support the ANSF in providing security, and help develop the infrastructure and stability of the govt. "We're here to help the Afghan people by doing anything we can to help them build a better life," said Karanfilov.

This is what Silver calls full spectrum counter insurgency ops. "Today, it's not just conventional armies fighting conventional armies. There's a lot more required of us.  The mission involves security, development, info ops and agricultural development.  All of those lines of effort have to be incorporated," Silver said.

Scouting insurgents used to be a problem in the mountainous terrain, but due to the continuous patrols and intel ops with the National Directorate of Security, they've seen a significant decline in the insurgent activity, said Hill.

A recent convoy patrol showed the benefits of multi-national coordination in action.  While returning on a convoy from FOB Sharana to the Sar Hawza district center, a team of Macedonians, U.S., and NDS soldiers received info that there was a possible ambush with an IED awaiting them on the road.

The Macedonian soldiers quickly took action by dismounting from their vehicles and searching the road on foot for IEDs to clear the route for the convoy. The team made it back to the district center without incident.

2nd Lt. Dan Silver, 4th Plt leader, pats the back of ANP Chief Khan, as they talk to Macedonian Capt. Turturov from Skopje, cmdr of the Macedonian Ranger Plt. 

2nd Lt. Dan Silver and Spc. Robert Dearden, an infantryman, pose with Macedonian army Rangers Capt. Ismaili, the XO from Gostivar; 1st Lt. Vlatko Karanfilov, a team cmdr from Skopje;  Capt. Turtorov and all of the Macedonian Rangers; and ANP Chief Khan and his officers. 

-30-

DVIDS

Arzu Studio Hope Seeks to Improve Quality of Life for Women

Story by Sgt. Heidi Agostini

Connie Duckworth, founder of Arzu Studio Hope, speaks with Fowzea Olemi, dir. of the women's center in Lashkar Gah, June 8. To work for Arzu, women sign a contract agreeing to send all of their children to school until age 15, and take literacy classes themselves. Also, pregnant women and mothers of newborns are to accept transportation to medical care.     

CAMP LEATHERNECK – Reps from Arzu Studio Hope visited Helmand prov., June 8-12, to survey several potential sites to expand their ops.  Since 2003, Arzu, a public-private partnership, has worked with women weavers to create high-end woven rugs. The one-of-a-kind, hand-knit rugs have caught worldwide attention, including the Smithsonian in Washington. 

Arzu recently cut the ribbon on a Women's Center in Dragon Valley, Bamyan, and now hope to develop the same success in Helmand prov.  The employment empowers the women with income, education, healthcare, and helps develop their skills. 

Afghan native, Razia Jan and entrepreneur Connie Duckworth, president of Arzu ("hope" in the Afghan language Dari), visited several sites within the prov., including Nawa, LashKar Gah and Gereshk. The ladies evaluated the possible sites on factors such as potential economic growth, security and local participation. 

The project is being developed with full cooperation and engagement of local women's and men's shuras.  ARZU aims to help in the reconstruction of the war-torn country by empowering women, their families and communities. 

"This is our first time in Helmand prov.," says Duckworth. "The biggest empowerment for women is a job, and the ability to earn an income.  The idea was to help these women produce the highest quality product that we can export to the proper market."  Jan and Duckworth realized some challenges that would go into kick starting the projec, including overcoming afghan cultural sensitivity.  "We have to start somewhere," said Jan, who will supervise the project.  "It makes a lot of difference when a woman has a little money in her pocket. The problem we encounter is communication.  Here in Afghanistan, the husband speaks on the woman's behalf."

Eager and willing to provide Afghan women a voice in the decision-making process, Jan and Duckworth follow a cultural practice by deferring and involving the Afghan males, typically head of the households with final say.  Jan and Duckworth will use the info gathered during the trip to develop business opportunities to help Afghan women in the future.

Connie Duckworth and Razia Jan, founder of Razia's Ray of hope, speak with Fowzea Olemi, dir. of the women's center in Lashkar Gah, June 8.  

Connie Duckworth glances over books inside the library at the newly refurbished women's center in Lashkar Gah. 

-30-

Joint Combat Camera Afghanistan 

TF Wolverine Conduct Psyop Mission 

Photos by Sgt. Corey Idleburg

BAGRAM AIR FIELD - A local vendor listens to Army Solders from TF Wolverine, as they address any concerns they might have within the village, June 7, Parwan.  Soldiers pass through the area to gather any concerns within the area, from local vendors and children.  

Sgt. 1st Class John Nagy of Combined-Joint TF 101 stands with local Afghans for a photo.

Spc. Joshua Rojas hangs out with local children in the Bagram Bazaar.

Vanessa Fantasia of Human Terrain Team gathers info about concerns within the area from local children near the Bagram Bazaar.

Soldiers from TF Wolverine speak with local elders of the Bagram Bazaar, and address any concerns they might have.   

-30-

Joint Combat Camera Afghanistan 

Mirsaleh Patrol 

Photo by Spc. Deyonte Mosley

FOB SHANK - Army Soldiers assigned to the 401st MP Co travel dismounted to the village of Mirsaleh, June 6, Logar prov., which is frequently patrolled to conduct key leader engagements.  

An elder of Mirsaleh gives Soldiers info on activity in the area.   Key leaders are used to get to know the people in the village, and to gather useful info. 

Staff Sgt. Michael Baldwin, shakes the hand of an elder.  Baldwin is assigned to the 401st MP Co, 720th MP Bn, 89th MP Bde.  

Army Soldiers assigned to the 401st, travel dismounted through. 

Cpl. John Jahaul conducts security, as squad leaders conduct a key leader engagement.

-30-

IRAQI STORIES:

Blackanthem Military News

TF Wings celebrates Asian Pacific American Heritage Month

Story and photos by Staff Sgt. Mike Alberts

A group of more than 30 TF Wings' Soldiers and other volunteers serve food during TF Wings' luau-themed Asian Pacific American Heritage Month (APAHM) celebration, that featured traditional dance, song and food, May 28. 

COB SPEICHER -  APAHM is celebrated in May to commemorate the contributions of people of Asian Pacific Islander descent in the U.S.  This date was chosen to coincide with 2 significant anniversaries:  the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants in America on May 7, 1843, and the completion of the transcontinental railroad by mostly Chinese laborers on May 10, 1869. 

TF Wings' luau-themed APAHM celebration was replete with Hawaiian décor, traditional kalua pig, among other savories, and a variety of traditional Polynesian music and dance.  It also featured a dance from the far corner of the Asian continent, India, performed by 1st Lt. Puja Ghosh, chemical officer and medical plt leader, HQ and Support Co, 209th Aviation Support Bn, TF Lobos.

"The performers hail from all over Polynesia and, as a result, we performed several different dances from several different Island cultures," said Sgt. Ta'ala. "This was our way of showing how important tradition and family is to us," continued Sgt. Ta'ala. "Where we're from, family is everything, and we're always doing everything as a family. This event hopefully helps others understand that about Pacific Island culture." 

Captain Marie Slack, bn adjutant, HHC, 2nd Bn, 25th Aviation Regt, TF Diamond Head, and Sgt 1st Class Punipuao Tuato'o, petroleum supply specialist and distribution plt sgt, Co E, 2-25 AVN, TF Diamond Head, both performed at the celebration.  Both Soldiers hoped to convey a sense of family and fun to those in attendance.

"I love sharing my culture with people," said Capt. Slack, a native of Hawaii with family originating from Samoa. "The whole spirit of Polynesia is about family, being happy and sharing that happiness with others.  I hope that when people see us celebrate our culture that they take away the spirit of Polynesia. They see the joy and the fun atmosphere that we carry with us wherever we go." 

Sergeant 1st Class Tuato'o, a native of American Samoa, agreed and added, "We Polynesians love to entertain. I enjoy seeing fellow Soldiers participate in our celebration with a curiosity to learn about our culture, and hopefully they left understanding how important our culture and our family traditions are to us."

More than 200 Soldiers, Airmen, civilian contractors and others attended TF Wing's celebration and, by all accounts, it was an experience they'll not soon forget.  "I really enjoyed today's celebration, especially all of the different types of dances," said Pvt 1st Class Tiffany Gordon, paralegal specialist, HHC, 25th CAB. "The Army is so diverse, and for that reason it's especially important to host these types of events. "Before today, I really knew nothing of the Island culture.  I've never been to a luau, or experienced traditional dance.  I didn't realize they'd so much fun with it all.  For me, what I will take-away from this event is just how important it is to celebrate culture, wherever you're from, and to have fun with it."

TF Wings' Soldiers perform a traditional Samoan Slap Dance.

 

TF Wings' Soldiers perform a traditional Hawaiian hula dance. 

 

Capt. Marie Slack performs a traditional Tahitian dance. 

TF Wings' Soldiers perform songs accompanied by ukulele. 

 

TF Wings' Soldiers perform a traditional Samoan dance. 

 

-30-

USF-I

Engineer Corps projects to increase IP presence 

Written by Mike Scheck, Gulf Region District 

MOSUL - May 30 - The USACE, Gulf Region District, Mosul Resident Office is really into building police stations in Iraq’s 2nd largest city. The Mosul engrs are the mgt partners for construction of 9 new police stations and rehabbing 2 existing IP stations.

The purpose of the new police stations is to help return the rule of law, according to the Iraqi project engr responsible for the police station project.  “Mosul has suffered from insurgent attacks for years,” the engr said. “This project is helping to provide for a safe community, where people can trust the police, and that in itself is a victory for Mosul.”

The 3-story police stations will have sufficient space to accommodate more than 140 police officers.  Each station will also house a jail, an armory and central kitchen.

-30-

DVIDS

U.S., Iraqis Provide Healthcare to Out-of-the-way Anbar Town

(Army photos by Spc. Katie Summerhill)   

Staff Sgt. John Clifford, a medic with 3rd Bn, 319th Abn FAR, 1st Advise and Assist Bde, 82nd AD, examines a girl's ear infection during a 1-day, combined US-Iraqi medical clinic, June 6, in Kubaysah.  Security for the event was provided by IA, IP, and paratroopers from 3-319th AFAR.

KUSAYBAH – American medics from 1st Advise and Assist Bde, joined local doctors to assess and treat nearly 400 of the town's 20,000 residents.  Capt. Kenneth Brodie, a physician asst with 3rd Bn, estimated that between several Army medics and the 4 primary care providers – 2 males and 2 females, 1 each Iraqi and American – they treated about 90% of the cases that walked through the door.

"We saw a lot of what we expected to see; a lot of congenital-type issues that we were unable to treat," said Brodie. "On the flipside, we were able to treat acute-type situations – dermatological rashes, ear infections, those kinds of things that we could treat with antibiotics and analgesics."

1st Lt. Jessica Larson, a physician asst with 307th BSB, said she and her female Army medics treated many cases of menstrual cramping and arthritis among women; and among children, strep throat, diarrhea and eczema issues associated with poor water quality.

Kubaysah's water is pumped in from the Euphrates River in Hit, but power issues often limit the amount of potable water available to townspeople, said the mayor.  Like many nearby towns, Kubaysah gets power from Haditha Dam, which currently has only 1 of 6 turbines in use.

"There are a lot of chronic issues that we're not able to address," said Larson.  "Obviously, there's difficulty in turning people away, and telling them that we're not able to help them. Then there's the reaction when you're able to help someone; you can see the appreciation on their faces.  One of the most satisfying thing is when we're able to educate them on what's going on with their bodies; a simple fix," she said.

According to Brodie, the town where the event was held has only the one medical clinic, and no hospital.  A surgeon from the hospital in Hit, Dr. Ahmed, visits the clinic at least twice a week.  Ahmed was one of the providers at the event.

Spc. Aubrey Stoda, a medic with 307th BSB,  demonstrates to a patient how to open wide. Female health care providers were present to meet cultural restrictions of the Iraq people. 

1st Lt. Jessica Larson, a physician asst examines an Iraqi child.

Capt. Kenneth Brodie, a physician asst., listens to an infant's heartbeat. during a one-day, combined US-Iraqi medical clinic, June 6, in Kubaysah, Iraq. The town of 20,000 has one clinic and no hospital.   

-30-

USF-I

River Police graduates rise above sectarian barriers

BAGHDAD - Officers from both the Waterborne Ops and the Dive Search and Recovery courses graduated, June 6 after 3 months of intensive training at the Baghdad River Police Training (BRPC) Center. The students, both Arabs and Kurds from various locations in Iraq, will return to their provincial police units, to help combat insurgent and other criminal activities.

"There's no difference between Arabs, Kurds, Shi'a, Sunni -- we're all Iraqis.  We all want to protect our country," said Luaman, of Duhuk, Kurdistan, before the graduation.  He hopes the Kurdistan regional govt will continue to support this type of training, by sending more students to future courses.

Students enrolled in the 12-week Dive SAR course learned advanced diving skills, and performed search and recovery ops in the black water conditions presented by the Tigris River.  Nearly half of those students were from Kurdistan.

"The most important part about this center is that it's the only center in the whole of Iraq that receives people from all over Iraq," said Iraqi 2nd Lt. Salim. "We don't recognize this is Arab; this is Kurd - we're all Iraqis," said Salim, who like Luaman was in the Fire Rescue Police before becoming a diver.  "The most important part is now I have brothers from Kurdistan, from Anbar, from all over Iraq."

Coast Guard Adm. Charles Ray, the Iraq Training Assistance Mission Ministry of Interior cmdr, congratulated students as Brig. Gen. Sabah, the BRPC cmdr handed them their diplomas.  Ray told Sabah that USF-I was happy to support the BRPC.  "It's important for the safety and security of the Iraqi people," Ray said. "The key is the leadership you are providing for the officers who will return to their provincial govts, and continue to train the next generation of IP officers."

-30-

USF-I

Suspected AQI leader arrested in west Mosul

BAGHDAD - ISF arrested a suspected AQI leader during a joint security op in west Mosul, June 9.  ISF and U.S. advisors searched a building for the suspected AQI leader, who is allegedly responsible for conducting assassinations against Iraqi judicial and police officials, and has allegedly coordinated IED attacks against ISF.

-30-

Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/6-11

Dear Interested Reader,

H&S Marines prove their versatility, mettle at FOB Geronimo.  A Taliban cmdr. makes a brave choice in Nawa.  Border Police complete 1st NCO course in Nangarhar prov.  Forces capture Taliban cmdr, seize drugs in Kandahar prov.

Iraq:  Soldier receives surprise visit at Camp Taji.  Belandeb patrolled in Logar prov.  Environmental PRT in Abu Ghraib.  Suspected AQI leader/assocs. arrested in Baghdad.

Joanna

__________________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

DVIDS

3/3 H&S Marines Prove Their Versatility, Mettle

Story by Sgt. Mark Fayloga

A local farmer explains why he has 12 bags of fertilizer in his van to Cpl. Eric Ramirez, squad leader, HQ Co, 3rd Bn, 3rd Marine Regt, at a vehicle checkpoint near FOB Geronimo, May 30. Enemy forces use fertilizer in the production of IEDs.  After running tests on the fertilizer, and speaking with a local elder, Ramirez let the farmer move through the checkpoint. "On patrol sometimes you have to move through fields, but I'm always sure to ask the farmer first and make sure not to destroy their crops. They're very appreciative and are glad to see Marines actually caring about their lives,"  said Ramirez.

FOB GERONIMO, Helmand province — The phrase, "every Marine a rifleman" is so overused it's gone from motto to cliché, but if Cpl. Eric Ramirez has his way, a new battle cry will emerge — every Marine an infantryman.  Ramirez is no stranger to the life of a grunt.  His boots have seen more than 600 dismounted patrols in Iraq, but for his current deployment, his 3rd in just as many years, the 21-year-old infantryman wanted something different.

Instead, Ramirez ended up in the same scene, but with new characters.  He still patrols. He still stands post, and sets up vehicle checkpoints.  He still denies the enemy movement, only now it's with the 3rd Bn, 3rd Marine Regt, HQ Co Guard Force, a group of mostly non-infantrymen who perform infantry duties in the H&S battle space.  Of the 12 men in Ramirez's squad, only 3, counting him, are infantrymen by trade. The rest hold billets like truck driver, administrative clerk, radio operator … all grunt support.  But for Ramirez their military specialty doesn't matter as much as another title — Marine.

"A lot of grunts would put these guys down," Ramirez said. "They'd say, 'they've never patrolled, they've never done this or that, blah, blah, blah …' Yeah, they've never patrolled, but we're still all Marines. You can train a Marine to be an infantryman.  If they haven't had the same training as you, of course they won't be on the same level, but I guarantee by the end of the deployment they will be. It's just how much time and how much effort do you want to put into these Marines, and I'm teaching them everything I know."

At first Ramirez worried the Marines under his charge wouldn't be enthusiastic about their new positions. They already had jobs they'd been trained to do. Who would want to be dropped into an unfamiliar role?  However, the men surprised him with their motivation and eagerness to head outside of the wire, a term used to describe the uncertainty outside of an FOB.  His squad completed their first patrol without being accompanied by a plt sgt or cmdr, May 30, near FOB Geronimo, and Ramirez was pleased by how quickly they had absorbed his training.

For some in Ramirez's squad, like with many Marines, there's always been grunt envy.  Pfc. Aramis Sandoval went to his local recruiting office in Bronx, N.Y., just a little more than a year ago, hoping to enlist as an infantryman.  When his recruiter told him he'd have to pick a new military occupational specialty, Sandoval settled on administrative clerk.  He hopes to be a lawyer one day, and figured a chance to work as a clerk in a base legal office would help him build experience.

With less than a year in the Marine Corps, Sandoval, the trained office worker, is a rifleman in Afghanistan — a white-collar warrior. "I give all the respect to the grunts," Sandoval said with a tired sigh. "This work is not easy at all. It's physically and mentally demanding. The pressure is the biggest challenge. I don't ever want to look back and think I got a Marine hurt, because I wasn't doing something right."  The work is as fulfilling as it's demanding.  Sandoval's face may usually be covered in sweat, dirt and awkward tan lines from constant, post, patrol and training, but it's got a smile on it as well.

As for Ramirez, when he's out on patrol, he doesn't see the difference between leading a squad of infantrymen and a squad of clerks.  "Just because you're not a grunt doesn't mean you're not a Marine," Ramirez said. "Everyone knows a Marine is a rifleman.  If they wanted to do just one job, they would've probably joined another service or something. The Marine Corps is a combat-arms service. We're all expected to be combative." 

Using an interpreter, Cpl. Eric Ramirez speaks with a local elder about the 12 bags of fertilizer found in a farmer's van.  After Ramirez ran tests on the fertilizer, and the elder vouched for the farmer, the van moved through the checkpoint. "Out on patrol you spend a lot of time talking to people, asking them about their lives," said Ramirez. "A lot of the people we talk to, we ask them, 'Do you mind? How does it make you feel when we search you?'  A lot of them say that it makes them feel safer. They're willing to work with us because they know we're here to help them out." 

Lance Cpl. Karl Schmidt and Pfc. Aramis Sandoval, a squad automatic weapon gunner and an administrative clerk, patrol through farmland on their way to set up a vehicle checkpoint. 

-30-

DVIDS

A Taliban Commander Makes a Brave Choice in Nawa

Story by Sgt. Brian Tuthill

Using an interpreter, Lt. Col. Matt Baker, comm. officer, 1st Bn, 3rd Marine Regt, talks with a former Taliban cmdr, after a reintegration shura at FOB Geronimo, June 1.  An ANA general released the former cmdr after deeming he was no longer a threat.  At the shura, the former cmdr vowed to participate in the peace and prosperity of Nawa.   

FOB GERONIMO — A former Taliban cmdr, in the Nawa area responsible for the production of IEDs and recruiting fighters, was released by an ANA general after months in detainment, when it was determined he was no longer a threat.

Both govt and tribal leaders vouched for the Taliban cmdr's intent to reintegrate into the area as a peaceful citizen during the brief meeting.  His reintegration is only the 4th. "In any counterinsurgency, eventually this has to be a part of the peace process," said Lt. Col. Jeffrey Holt, comm. officer, 3rd Bn, 3rd Marine Regt.

After the shura, the Taliban cmdr spoke with Lt. Col. Matt Baker and Holt, whose bn is set to take over 1/3's area of ops in the coming days. "He vowed to participate in the peace and prosperity that the people of Nawa enjoy," said Holt. "The greatest challenge is how do you reintegrate the Taliban into the peace process?  We're brave enough to do it in Nawa.  The question is, how do you spread that?  We know this guy believes that we're here to help people prosper and make them more self-sufficient."

For many, the question remains: how can you trust that a Taliban cmdr and other enemy leaders won't return to old ways after reintegrating?  Holt has an answer.  "Don't give him a choice," he said. "Give him a job. He needs work just like any other guy. Give him whatever he needs: security, success, anything possible to make a better life."

The 3/3 cmdr understands there is risk in integration, but said you have to make peace.  He said he isn't ready to call the reintegration of one member of the Taliban a tipping point in the war, but he's hopeful. "Without hope we've no future," Holt said. "It's our hope they choose peace.  "I think they're tired of war."   

-30-

RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Border police complete first NCO course

Story and photos by Army Spc. Richard Daniels Jr.

At Zone 1, East ABP HQ, local ABP march to their graduation ceremony, June 7. The ABP ran and organized its first NCO course, which displayed progress in structure and stability of ANSF, without the help of ISAF.

NANGARHAR PROVINCE – Fifty-one men stood smiling, waiting for the certificates that would recognize them as the 1st graduates of a border police course administered entirely by Afghans.  “Today's a very important day for the new NCOs as well as the ABP,” said Maj. Adam Reichart,  an advisor from 205th MP Bn, TF Bastogne. “These classes were all ABP run and well put together.” 

All of the young Afghan men volunteered and tested to become border police officers. Their education levels varied from high school freshman-level education to college graduates.  One volunteer had an advantage when it came to the ABP’s teachings. “The classes were not hard for me because I am from a militia family,” said Sgt. Shari Fullah, age 26, who achieved the highest honors in the class. “My father, my uncle, all of them, they're military.”

Instructors handpicked by the ABP trained the NCOs in subjects such as police tactics, IEDs, criminal tactics, police ops and logistics.  “I'm happy to work as a teacher for the military for 31 years,” said Maj. Malang Jan, an instructor at the NCO course. “I've a lot of experience, and enjoy my job.”

About 15 months ago, the ABP didn’t have any matching uniforms. That was until the ETT stepped in and provided the ABP with uniforms similar to the Army and the AF. The new uniforms displayed professionalism, encouraging more people to join.  One of the hardships the border police face is constant attacks against their outposts.  As a result, the ABP often see more combat than any other ANSF entity.

Reichart concluded his commencement speech with advice for the NCOs. “You're going to units that are involved with ambushes, fighting, and smuggling in a very busy time of the year,” said Reichart. “You need to listen to the trainers, those people already trained in those areas, as well as the soldiers who've already been in the area. They've some great experience,” he said.

“You need to work together to form a good team.  You've learned a lot of things in the past several months.  You're now leaders in your unit.  Don’t take this great responsibility lightly,” said Reichart.  “Soldiers and future leaders will look to you to guide them and lead them the right way.”

The ABP are responsible for securing a 5,529-km border and int'l airports, and administering Afghanistan’s customs regulations and the immigration process. The new graduates expressed eagerness to start their jobs.  “If you ask the NCOs where they want to go, they say they want to go to the border; they want to fight the enemy; they're ready to serve Afghanistan,” said Jan.

 

About 51 ABP attend the first NCO course graduation ceremony.

An ABP displays his graduation gifts and shouts, “I serve Afghanistan.” 

An Afghan Border Policeman accepts his graduation certificate from Col. Khayle.

-30-

DVIDS

Forces Capture Taliban Commander, Seize Drugs 

Office of the Secretary of Defense Public Affairs

KABUL - Afghan and in'l forces captured a Taliban cmdr, and other insurgent suspects in Kandahar prov., June 8, military officials said.  The cmdr is believed responsible for bringing together IED experts to construct the devices, and of being a member of a Taliban assassination cell in Kandahar City. The man and the other suspects were captured in a rural compound in Arghandab District.

Also, an ISAF patrol June 8 discovered about 1,980-lbs of of marijuana in the Reg-e Khan Neshin district of Helmand prov. The patrol found 37 bags of the drug in a truck and detained the driver.

-30-

IRAQI STORIES:

DVIDS

Soldier Receives a Surprise Visit From His Father

By Capt. Charon Camarasa

Delighted to see his son, Command Sgt. Maj. Jorge Soriano, the 412th Aviation Support Bn's senior NCO, flew from COB Adder to Camp Taji, to meet Spc. Diego Soriano, May 21.   

CAMP TAJI – Father and son had not seen each other since the summer of 2009.  Deployments have kept them apart. "The opportunity to visit my son has been the best part of this deployment so far," said Command Sgt. Maj. Soriano. "It's been a very special couple of days; I appreciate the company leadership giving my son time off to spend with me," he added.

"I remember having a conversation with my father after 9/11 about how the world would change, and here we are 9 years later in Iraq together," said Spc. Soriano, as he explains the long conversations he had with his father in the days following Sept. 11, 2001.  Spc. Soriano is a 21-year-old infantryman assigned to Charlie Co, 1st Bn, 3rd Inf Regt (The Old Guard), a unit subordinate to the 211th MP BN.  Soriano enlisted in the Army to follow the footsteps of his father and brother, Mar, who is currently serving in Afghanistan with the AF.

Spc. Soriano took the oath of enlistment in January of 2007 in front of more than 600 members from his father's class at the Army Sergeants Major Academy at Fort Bliss, Texas. "I was pretty nervous, but I'll definitely never forget it," he said.

"I'm proud that he wanted to serve his country in a time of war, and glad to know he's doing what he wants to do," said Command Sgt. Maj. Soriano, as he expresses how proud he is of his son.  "I don't worry too much; I pray like any other father," he added.

 -30-

DVIDS

Belandeb Patrolled in Logar Province

(Photos by Spc. Deyonte Mosley)

FOB SHANK - Army Sgt. John Russell conducts a search for medicine for a man in the village of Belandeb, June 8, Logar province.  Russell is assigned to the 173rd Abn BCT.   

Sgt. Russell shakes the hand of a man in the village. 

Staff Sgt. Michael Baldwin takes part in a key leader engagement in the village.  Baldwin is assigned to the 401st MP Co, 720th MP Bn, 89th MP Bde.   

U.S. Army Soldiers travel mounted in MRAP vehicle's through the village.  Belandeb is frequently patrolled to conduct key leader engagements.   

-30-

DVIDS

Environmental Provincial Reconstruction Team in Abu Ghraib

(Photos by Spc. Venessa Hernandez)

Location: Abu Ghraib, IQ

ABU GHRAIB - Army Lt. Col. Darron Wright, Dep. Comm. Officer of 4th Stryker BCT, arrives at the Qadaa Council building in Abu Ghraib, June 3.  The intent of the meeting is for Baghdad Provincial Council members to become familiarized with the agricultural efforts in Abu Ghraib, and to construct goals to improve future agricultural efforts.    

Franklin Morris of the Environmental PRT arrives at the Qadaa Council building.

Baghdad Provincial Council Chairman, Mr. Zaidy, and members of the Environmental PRT, escorted by Soldiers from 4th Stryker BCT, 2nd ID, arrive at the Abu Ghraib Agricultural College for a meeting. 

Ms. Christine Sheckler, Chief of U.S. Agency for Int'l Development, Environmental PRT-West, escorted by Soldiers from 4th Stryker BCT, arrives at the College for a meeting with the Dean. 

Sgt. Andrew Canvasser from 4th Stryker BCT, provides security for Baghdad Provincial Council members during Op Walk the Green II. 

-30-

USF-I

June 8, 2010

Suspected AQI leader, four associates arrested

BAGHDAD - ISF arrested a suspected AQI leader and 4 criminal assocs during joint security ops, June 8, in Baghdad.  In west and north Baghdad, ISF and U.S. advisors searched multiple buildings for the suspected AQI leader who is allegedly involved in attacks on ISF and CF.

-30-

flickr

Pecking Order

(Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Manhea Kim) 

 

An Iraqi child and his father wait to receive free chickens near Mosul, May 9, 2010, as part of the U.S. PRT’s effort to stimulate the local economy, through promotion of agriculture and free trade. 

-30-

Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/6-10

Dear Interested Reader,

TF Iron Gray Soldiers put their skills to constructive use on COP Najil.  Andar district ANP stand strong despite insurgent attacks.  ADT provides farming classes for local farmers in Khost prov.  Navy brings diversity to the fight.

Iraq:  CAB 1st AD holds Victory Day o Camp Marez.  Joint medical mission treats hundreds in Al Hamid.  Suspected AQI members killed/assocs. arrested south of Mosul.

Joanna

__________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Soldiers put their skills to constructive use

Story and photos by Army Staff Sgt. Gary Witte 

Staff Sgt. Shaun Thomas, mortar section leader with Co B, 1st Bn, 102nd Inf Regt, TF Iron Gray, carries a support beam across the construction site of a new living quarters hut at COP Najil.  His civilian job is asst construction mgr for a firm that builds hotels.

LAGHMAN PROVINCE – Staff Sgt. Alex Seretny always has a 2nd sidearm hanging off his pistol holster – an 8-inch, adjustable crescent wrench.  “I use it absolutely every single day,” the squad leader said. “It’s a combat tool.  It’s saved the day more than once.”

Seretny and other Soldiers with Co B have used their civilian talents almost as regularly as their combat training, since arriving at COP Najil.  During one recent mission, Seretny not only repaired a stalled vehicle in the field, but also used his knowledge of pulley systems to free a stuck heavy expanded mobility tactical truck – thus allowing a supply convoy to continue without having to send for a recovery vehicle.

“The biggest asset the NG brings to theater is the civilian skill set of the Soldiers,” said 1st Sgt. Greg Lebeau, noting the presence of plumbers, carpenters, electricians, and heavy equipment operators in his unit. “Not only are we a full inf co, but we're basically a construction crew at the same time.”

This has translated to the Conn. unit building reinforced fighting positions, latrines, and even additional living quarters on the tall hillside they occupy with ANA forces.  “We also put our own little extra pride in it, as well as expediting all the projects,” Lebeau said. “The quicker we get it done, the more time we can spend training the ANA.  Our bn is great about pushing us the materials we need to do the projects.”

Sgt Daniel Parreira, previously hired Spc. Forrest Scott to work with him at his civilian construction co.  Since they have teamed back up during this deployment, everyone now refers to them as “The Dirt Brothers.”

Parreira has done construction for a dozen years, including house remodelling and high-end cabinet work.  Afghanistan has provided challenges for his skills. “You have to get really creative,” he said. “It’s tough going from million-dollar homes to building huts from plywood.”

All 3 brought their personal tools for the deployment, and has provided them for the unit’s use. “It’s fun. It makes the day go by quicker,” Scott said after spending the day helping build the floor of a new hut to house visitors to the base. “You almost forget you’re in Afghanistan.”  Lebeau noted he sometimes has to stop Seretny from spending too much time on various projects, and remind him to get meals, as well as a proper amount of sleep.

Seretny, who works for his town’s highway dept as a foreman and jack-of-all-trades, is a self-taught mechanic who drove a bulldozer around his family farm, even before he was old enough for a driver’s license.

An armored bulldozer is his vehicle of choice at Najil, where it's been used to expand the base landing zone, level ground for a shower facility, and rework the road leading to the base’s highest watchtower.

Some projects have been more unusual. When high winds knocked down the latrine at the watchtower, Parreira spent 3 days rebuilding it.  He also customized the latrine by adding recliner armrests, a cupholder and a swing arm mount for a M-240B machine gun.  “I got carried away with it,” Parreira said, smiling.

Others in the unit pitch in for the larger projects. Together they've built a loading dock for trucks, worked a series of drainage projects to prevent water from flooding some of the buildings, and remodelled a storage shed into a living area.

“If they don’t have a piece of equipment to do the job, the first thing they do is build the piece of equipment, and then do the job,” Lebeau said, noting his men complete their construction tasks faster than any deadline set. “I’ve never seen anything like it.”

As more materials roll in, the unit is planning more developments for the base, including the construction of a motor pool and maintenance bay.  “I’ll be on that ‘dozer until the day I leave,’” Seretny said.

While it serves as creative relaxation for many, the outcome can be just as enjoyable as the work itself.  “After you build it, you get the same satisfaction,” Parreira said. “You can look at it and say, 'I did that.'”

(left), Staff Sgt. Shaun Thomas, and Sgt Daniel Parreira use a line to ensure the flooring of a new living quarters hut will be level, May 28. 

(left), Spc. Forrest Scott and Sgt Daniel Parreira align a beam for the foundation of a new hut. 

-30-

CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Andar District ANP stand strong despite insurgent attacks

Story and photos by AF 1st Lt. Katherine Roling 

GHAZNI PROVINCE – At the Andar District Center, ANP gather around a photo, June 5, of the former Andar police chief, Col. Patang, who recently died fighting the insurgents during a patrol, May 22. “He was a good man,” one ANP said as he gazed at the photo while others asked to see it. The Ghazni PRT had taken the photo of Colonel Patang in the past, and offered it to the ANP as a gift to thank them for their hard work. 

ANP at the Andar District Center unload a radio antenna, June 5, that was transported by the Ghazni PRT in a Light Medium Tactical Vehicle.  It belongs to the Shilgar Radio Station, which lost their previous antenna when a car ran into it.  Since the PRT was headed to Andar, the team delivered it to the District Center. The Afghan radio station will provide news coverage to Andar, Giro and Deh Yak districts, as well as to Ghazni City. 

An ANP receives medical attention for a minor injury at the Andar District Center from Army Sgt. 1st Class Timothy Turner, Ghazni PRT medic. Turner treated 4 ANP during the PRT’s visit.  Two of them had minor injuries from that morning’s firefight, and 2 others had illnesses that had been left unchecked. The ANP were grateful for his medical assistance and watched in interest as he cleaned up wounds and provided medicine. 

ANP stand guard at the Andar District Center and meet the Ghazni PRT, who brought sand barriers, fruit, and photos.  The ANP had just fought off small arms fire that morning, and were still standing strong, when the PRT arrived later that afternoon.  The ANP were able to provide info to the PRT to help in the assistance of stabilizing the district.

-30-

CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

ADT provides farming classes for local farmers

Story and photos by AF Senior Airman Julianne Showalter 

Farmers from the Sabari district set up a gravity-fed, irrigation system, during the hands-on portion of the class, June 1. The irrigation process uses rubber tubing with small openings every 4 inches to water crops. 

KHOST PROVINCE - The 2nd Bn, 19th Inf ADT worked with the Sabari district gov. to facilitate irrigation and compost training for 105 farmers, June 1-3.  The 2 courses were taught by an Afghan ADT cultural advisor to minimize the military presence at the district center. 

“Having 2 weeks of preparation time with the district gov. and Sabari civil affairs officer, contributed to the success of training,” said Sgt. 1st Class Eric Umbarger, NCO-in-charge.

Both courses incorporated techniques and tools that are easily duplicated on either large or small scale with tools purchased from the local bazaar.  Sabari farmers who attended the training were given a gravity-fed, drip irrigation system starter kit and composting tools. “The farmers were very appreciative of the training and the tools they were given,” said an ADT interpreter.

"The first course, composting, taught the benefits of recycling organic materials to create a fertilizer that increases the soil nutrient levels, in turn improving crops.  Additionally, the compost acts as a soil conditioner and as a natural pesticide," said Umbarger.  Following the composting course, the team taught the benefits of the gravity-fed, drip irrigation system. “I've seen the system set up in other areas of Khost prov., and we hope to bring that capability to Sabari farmers,” said Umbarger.

Overall, the training was well attended, thanks in part to the support of the district gov., said 1st Lt. David Tressler, Khost PRT Sabari civil affairs officer.  “The gov. recorded a radio announcement, which got the word out and brought additional farmers to the district center,” Tressler said.

With the overwhelming success of the training, the ADT plans to have more courses at the district center. “Some things locals have voiced to us while on patrol, such as grain storage and animal husbandry, have already been put in the works, and we hope to bring them to Sabari in the near future” said Umbarger.  

Young farmers from Sabari district juggle tools on their shoulders, after receiving compost training at the district center, June 2. 

Army Spc. Andrae Camp, and Sgt 1st Class Eric Umbarger, 2nd Bn, 19th Inf ADT, assemble irrigation system starter kits for the farmers who attended the course. 

Sgt. 1st Class Umbarger talks to farmers from Yaqoubi Khalay during a patrol, June 3.  Members of the ADT walked through the village to ask what types of training the farmers would like to see held at the Sabari district center. 

-30-

CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Navy brings diversity to the fight

Story and photos by AF Master Sgt. Demetrius Lester 

PAKTIKA PROVINCE – Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Pete Kowall, provides security during a mission in Sharana district, June 4.  Although Kowall is a culinary specialist, he works for the Paktika PRT as a supply tech, and also works as a gunner for the PRT while on missions outside the wire.  He's a vital member of a team of roughly 100 military personnel and interagency partners throughout Paktika prov., whose mission is to help legitimize the GoA through development, governance and agricultural initiatives.  Kowall is deployed from Navy Consolidated Brig, Charleston S.C., where he fulfills a special duty assignment as a corrections specialist. 

Paktika PRT NCO-in-charge of personnel, Navy Chief Petty Officer Richard Mora, provides security.  Although Chief Mora is the administrative dept head for the PRT, he also augments the PRT SECFOR element as a personal security detail for PRT members, while on missions outside the wire.  Mora is deployed from Naval Op Support Center, El Paso, Texas. 

-30-

 

IRAQI STORIES:

Blackanthem Military News

CAB 1st AD holds Victory Day on Camp Taji

Story and photos by Spc. Roland Hale

Lt. Col Paul Mele, cmdr of the 1st Attack Recon Bn (ARB), 1st Aviation Regt, CAB, 1st ID, runs through a spray of water at the finish of a 5-km run on Camp Taji.

BAGHDAD - June 15 will start a flurry of recreation on Fort Riley, Kans., with the beginning of the 1st Infantry Division's annual tradition, Victory Week. However, this year, Fort Riley's Victory Week will be missing something.  Several 1st ID units, including the div's HQ, are currently deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan. One of these units, however, is doing its best to bring the spirit of Victory Week to Iraq.
 
With temperatures soaring over 100 degrees, Soldiers  with the CAB, 1st ID. on Camp Taji, took a break from their daily duties, June 6 to celebrate the birthday of the 1st ID - famously known as the Big Red One - and the 66th anniversary of the D-Day landings on the beaches of Normandy, France.

The Soldiers took part in a 5-km foot race, and a volleyball tournament.  Also in celebration, the bde re-enlisted 111 Soldiers on Taji Army Airfield.  The Soldiers raised their right hands to take the oath of re-enlistment while standing around a several hundred square-foot painting of the 1st ID's insignia - a Big Red One. "Good vibes, great energy," said Command Sgt. Maj. Jim Thomson, the CAB's senior NCO. "About 400 Soldiers turned out this morning to run in the spirit of the 1st ID, to show their support for those who paved the way for us."

The 1st ID was activated on June 8, 1917, and has played a key-role in each of the nation's major conflicts since then.  During the D-Day invasion, Big Red One Soldiers landed on Utah beach, one of the more famous fronts of the assault.  Today, Thomson said, the good vibes and great energy are also evident in the mass re-enlistment ceremony. "The fact that so many participated in the run and in the volleyball tournament, and in the re-enlistment, is an indication that morale in the bde is high," said Thomson.

In the middle of the day's celebrations, however, the celebrating CAB Soldiers were reminded of their mission when the explosion of a nearby IED echoed across Taji. "In everything we did today we took a moment to remember the division's history - and sure enough, we're still in a dangerous place," said Thomson, speaking about the explosion. "Iraq has come a long way, and it's entering a new phase of the op, but it was a reminder that there are still dangers out here.  We're still warriors."

Capt. Khamoy Sysengchanh and Master Sgt. Angel Amaral finish a 5-km run. 

A mass formation of CAB, 1st ID Soldiers re-enlist on Taji Army Airfield, June 6. 

Soldiers fight for a point during a volleyball tournament. 

 

-30-

Blackanthem Military News

Spartan Armorers train IFP

By Spc. Dustin Gautney

Pvt First Class Elvis Marte (right), 26th BSB, 2nd HBCT, 3rd ID, instructs armorers from the IFP on proper maintance and repair of a 50-caliber machine gun, during a weapons repair class held at COB Marez, May. 18.

COB MAREZ - "The goal is to have the ISF' armorers capable of maintaining and repairing their weapons systems on their own," said Sgt. Larry Long, 26th BSB. "Once U.S. Forces depart, it's solely up to the Iraq forces and armorers to keep their weapons mission capable."
     
Also taught during the class was weapons repair and how to diagnose weapons malfunctions.  "We had the Iraqi armorers take apart the weapon systems and showed them how to use gauges to check that each individual machine part was properly gauged and working, and how to fix the discrepancies themselves,"  said Sgt. Long.

     
To Sgt. Long's surprise the Iraq armorers took to the training very quickly, and had more questions about advanced weapons repair and maintenance then he originally thought the armorers would have.  "I was really surprised; the Iraqi armorers really wanted to know every detail on repairing the weapons systems," said Sgt. Long. "They wanted to know exactly what we do with our systems, and to show us what they do with theirs, so we both could compare and work with them, to learn what details that they could improve on.  The cooperation between our armorers and theirs showed the level of camaraderie both services have for each other."  

-30-

USF-I

Joint medical mission treats hundreds

Story and photos by Pfc. Adrian Muehe

An interpreter with Co C, 296th BSB, 3rd Stryker BCT, 2nd ID, comforts an Iraqi girl with a broken leg, during a joint medical civil action program in Al Hamid, June 1.

DIYALA — U.S. and Iraqi Soldiers recently visited the small village of Al Hamid, to provide medical assistance to residents in need.  The village is able to operate a small clinic, but restocking medical supplies requires a lengthy trip to Balad Ruz, over 100 kms away. "This is a very rural area," said Hussein, IA cmdr. "They don't have much out there, and it's good to get out and help these people."

When the U.S. Forces with Charlie Co, 52nd Infantry Regt, attached to 5th Bn, 20th Inf Regt, arrived at the village, the IA had already searched the clinic and the surrounding buildings, ensuring the facilities were safe enough to allow for the medical mission to occur.  Meanwhile, an eager crowd gathered in the courtyard, awaiting medical care.  As U.S. Forces established an entry control point, the Iraqi Soldiers cordoned off an area to search the residents before allowing them to enter the clinic.  "They really took charge of the situation," said Capt. Andrew Marsh, cmdr of Charlie Co.  "We couldn't have done this without them."

While people waited outside, medics and doctors from both the 296th and 5/20 Inf., both of 3 SBCT, 2nd ID, set up shop inside the local clinic, which is usually run by one doctor. It's comprised of 4 rooms, connected by a shallow hallway amid walls lined with medical diagrams, ripped straight from medical textbooks.

Patients ranged from a small girl with a broken leg, to an elderly man in a makeshift wheel chair, but all were seen and given the same attentive care. "We saw at least 200 people come through here today," said 2nd Lt. John Hutchison, a plt leader with C Co.  Today was a success; we had no problems, and everyone walked away with a smile."

In addition to receiving medical care, the residents were able to interact with Iraqi Soldiers, which is a rarity for them because nothing ever disturbs this quaint little town.  As they waited in line for the MEDCAP, the Soldiers talked with the villagers, strengthening their relationship.
"There's nothing here, only desert all around between here and Iran," said Mohammed, an Iraqi co cmdr. "It was beautiful to come here to see these people, give them medicine, and help them out together with U.S. Forces."

"I'm very glad that our IA partners are doing such an outstanding job," said Hutchison. "They could have easily pulled this off without us being here."

Army Spc. Nicole Langley, a combat medic with Co C, takes the blood pressure of an elderly man in a makeshift wheelchair. 

-30-

USF-I

Operation kills 4 suspected AQI terrorists, 3 arrested

BAGHDAD – ISF killed 4 suspected AQI members and arrested 3 criminal assocs during a joint security op in northern Iraq, June 5.  In an area approx 40 kms south of Mosul, ISF and U.S. advisors searched multiple buildings for a suspected senior AQI leader allegedly involved in VBIED and IED attacks.  As the security team approached the building in which the suspect was believed to be located, individuals inside the target compound lobbed grenades and fired automatic weapons at the SECFOR, who acting in self- defense, returned fire killing 4.  Info and evidence gathered at the scene led Iraqi forces to identify and arrest 3 suspected AQI criminal assocs.

-30-

flickr

Stairway to Heaven

(Army photo by Spc. Samantha Ciaramitaro)  

U.S. Soldiers from the 17th Fires Bde make their way up the stairs of the 4,000-year-old Ziggurat of Ur, near COB Adder, May 18, 2010. The Ziggurat was constructed as a place of worship, and today is one of the most well-preserved structures of the Neo-Sumerian city of Ur. 

 

-30-

Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/6-09

Dear Interested Reader,

Three nations, 2 armies discuss border security at FOB Salerno.  Day workers and good neighbors at Bagram Airfield.  Panjshir PRT joins a gym class.  ANP CSI graduates awarded in Bamyan prov.

Iraq:  18th Engr Co sharpen their TALON EOD Robot skills.  36th SB Soldier reflects on 3 tours.  NCAA football coaches visit 13th ESC.  Suspected AQI leader and assocs. killed in Mosul.

Joanna

___________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Three nations, two armies discuss border security

Story and photos by Army Maj. Justin Platt

 

Army Maj. Gen. Curtis Scaparrotti, CJTF-82 cmdr (left); incoming CJTF-101 cmdr, Maj. Gen. John Campbell (center); and Pakistani cmdr, Lt. Gen. Asif (right), discuss border security issues, June 5.

FOB SALERNO – The flags of 3 nations, one Pakistani Army corps, and 2  Army divs were represented in a multi-national border coordination meeting that included senior leaders from RC-E, the Pakistani Army, ANSF and TF Rakkasan. Those that were present, including 2nd Zone ABP Cmdr, Maj. Gen. Mollakhail, met with the 3rd BCT, 101st AD to discuss cross-border coordination between military and border police forces.

    

TF Rakkasan hosted the meeting because it shares almost 300 miles of border with Pakistan.  For the Rakkasans to be successful in their security mission in Paktika, Paktya and Khost Provs, cross-border cooperation is essential, said Army Col. Viet X. Luong, the 3rd BCT cmdr.

    

To assist in the cooperative security mission, facilities like the newly-constructed Lwara Border Coordination Center, and the improvements to the Ghulam Khan Point of Entry, will set the conditions for increased control of traditional enemy infiltration routes, said Luong.

    

The Pakistani military also sees the advantage of cooperating with ISAF on the Afghanistan side of the border.  Pakistani forces have been increasing their ops against insurgents in North and South Waziristan according to Asif. “Things will be heating up in the next coming months, due to our ops against insurgents.  Be prepared to see a lot of insurgent traffic on your side of the border,” he said.

    

The security mission falls heavily on the shoulders of the ABP, and Mollakhail believes continued cooperation with Pakistan is essential.  “I hope that these coordinated missions show what is possible. We have a common enemy.  There shouldn’t be any border to defeat terrorists,” Mollakhail said.

  

Asif agreed, adding the best way to defeat terrorists is through continued meetings and joint planning of cross-border security ops.  Both nations have the same goal and are eager to make it happen through the Border Flag Meeting process, he said. “It's not a question of intent.  It's one of mechanisms.  The objective of a Border Flag Meeting shouldn’t be just to show flags.  There's no substitute for face-to-face talks,” Asif said.

    

Ultimately, such constructive dialogue between Pakistan and Afghanistan is the way ahead, and will continue when CJTF-82 transfers authority of RC-E to CJTF-101 later in June, said Scaparrotti.  He reaffirmed ISAF’s commitment to a security partnership with Pakistan, thanking them for being a willing partner in regional stability.

    

“I appreciate the hard work your country is doing. I’m confident the success of this brigade (3rd BCT) will continue.  So long as we work together, that’s how we’re successful,” Scaparrotti said.

 

Pakistani Army cmdr, Lt. Gen. Asif (right), discusses the border security issues.  Army Brig. Gen. Stephen Townsend (left) and ABP cmdr, Maj. Gen. Mollakhail (center), look on. 

The 3rd BCT cmdr, Col. Viet Luong (far right), addresses senior cmdrs.  Pakistani Army cmdr, Lt. Gen. Asif (far left); Maj. Gen. Curtis Scaparrotti (left center), and the incoming CJTF-101 cmdr, Maj. Gen. John Campbell (right center), attended the meeting.

-30-

CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Day Workers and Good Neighbors

Story and photos by Army Sgt. Charles Espie 

 

AF Senior Master Sgt. Lisa Bryant, communications NCO-in-charge of the Joint Network Ops Control Center-A, hands a care package to one of the Bagram Airfield day workers, May 30.  Bryant is part of TF Wolverine's effort to sustain and improve the relationship with communities surrounding Bagram Airfield.

BAGRAM AIRFIELD – Local Afghans who come to Bagram Airfield to find day work, without success, were presented quality-of-life packages by BAF servicemembers.  “Many of these guys show up daily and can’t get work for a variety of reasons,” said 1st Lt. Joseph Scalzo, a civil affairs officer with the 86th IBCT. “By providing them items to help improve their quality of life, they're more likely to be supportive of the CF mission to help Afghans.”

The Afghan day workers are often employed to do construction or other trade work.  Doing this work teaches them skills they can use in the future to secure employment, said Scalzo. “With learned skills to acquire jobs, Afghans are less likely to become involved with criminal or Taliban elements.”

 

AF Master Sgt. Joe Tysinger, a civil engr with the 577th Expeditionary Civil Engr Sqdrn, Base Engr Emergency Force, hands a care package to one of the Bagram Airfield day workers.

Samuel Joao, a civilian contractor and Mozambique resident, who works as a dog handler here, hands out a care package.

-30-

CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Panjshir PRT joins a gym class

Story and photo by Army Sgt. John Young 

Army 1st Lt. Mike O’Neil,  Army Spc. LeeAnn Kwait and other members of the Panjshir PRT’s civil affairs team join in on a gym class at a local school. 

PANJSHIR PROVINCE – It started out as a typical mission for the civil affairs branch of the Panjshir PRT, May 27.  They set out to do an assessment of a local school and its ability to support a micro hydroelectric plant to power the new computer facility and library.  

Halfway through the mission, they noticed a group of students from the school doing their morning exercises around a volleyball court. The civil affairs team could not resist the opportunity to join in. “We were looking at the micro hydro, and if it could be a future project,” said Spc. LeeAnn Kwait, a civil engr with the Panjshir PRT. “They were doing simple stretching exercises and asked if we could do some push-ups for the kids, and then they all decided to join in,” said Kwait.

“The kids seemed to really enjoy participating. They were smiling and joking, and I was really impressed with the amount of discipline in the class,” said Kwait. “It only lasted about 15 minutes, but everyone seemed to have a good time.”

After the impromptu workout, the team presented the students and teachers with school supplies donated from a school in America.  “We gave them some school supplies and some sports equipment like soccer balls, baseballs and Frisbees," said Kwait.

While the assessment went well, the interaction with the kids was just as important to showing the Afghan people that the Panjshir PRT is making an effort to improving the quality of life for the children at the school. 

-30-

CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

ANP CSI Graduates Awarded

Story and photos by Army Pfc. Roy Mercon

BAMYAN PROVINCE – Col. Mike Berry, cmdr of the Delaware ETT, assigned to the 86th IBCT, renders a salute to one of the 21 graduates of the ANP’s Crime Scene Investigation program at the ANP Regional Training Center, May 28. The 6-week program is 1 of 2 in Afghanistan, and is considered a vital part in the development of the country. Crime scene investigators write up and organize detailed reports on the activities being carried out at the scene, and the observations made. These reports are then given to the law enforcement agency in charge of investigating the crime.  Crime scene investigators may also be asked to testify in court in regards to their findings, and the processing methods that were used at the scene. 

 

 

A graduate shows his fellow policemen his certificate during a graduation ceremony. 

Staff Sgt. Peter Ladensack, a member of the Delaware ETT, renders a solute to a graduate.

The 21 graduates along with their American counterparts pose for a group photo, May 28. 

-30-

IRAQI STORIES:

Blackanthem Military News

18th Engineer Co Sharpen Their TALON EOD Robot Skills

By Pfc. Adrian Muehe

Spc. Richard Berryman, a combat engr with 2nd plt, 18th Engr Co, 296th BSB, 3rd Stryker BCT, 2nd ID, pilots the controls of a TALON EOD Robot, while observing live feeds from the 4 cameras mounted on the device during training at FOB Warhorse, May 27. The robot has multiple cameras to provide a comprehensive view of the ground to allow operators to identify and interrogate IEDs easier.

DIYALA - The sun beats down upon the Iraqi desert and the dry cracked earth is cluttered with debris and small isolated shrubberies, making this the ideal location to hide an IED. Arriving into this potential kill zone is a miniature tank equipped with multiple cameras and a long arm, capable of extending in the front with pincers that allow it to pick up items or cut wires.

A safe distance away stands a U.S. Soldier using a joystick on a laptop to dictate every move made by this TALON EOD robot. Operated by Soldiers from 2nd Plt, this machine is able to locate and identify IEDs and other unexploded ordinance hazards. 

"The robot was originally meant for EOD Teams," said Staff Sgt. Jeff Heilman, a squad leader for 2nd plt. "The engrs adopted it just for the route clearance mission, and engrs are being taught how to use this robot to ensure EOD teams aren't called out to every single IED on the road."

"It's a great interrogation investigation tool that allows us to stay a ways back and just push out a piece of mechanical equipment that doesn't endanger anyone's life," said Sgt. Kevin Ames, the training course instructor from 2nd plt. "It can also go through smaller spaces than our vehicles can."

Although not every engr is qualified to blow IEDs found along the road, everyone in 2nd Plt has some experience with the robot.  Some may be more comfortable with using it than others, but these Soldiers are experts on locating and identifying IEDs. Just knowing how to move this device will allow them to do their job in a way that's a lot safer than unknowingly walking into a kill zone.

Spc. Richard Berryman walks alongside a TALON EOD Robot, as another driver operates it during a training course.  Berryman had just used this device for the first time and was walking alongside to see the differences between how a human and this equipment view an area.

Sgt. Kevin Ames, a team leader for 2nd plt, shows Soldiers of his plt the components of the TALON EOD Robot during a class he gave. 

-30-

Blackanthem Military News

36th SB Soldier reflects on three tours 

By 36th Sustainment Brigade Public Affairs

COB ADDER - Soldiers gain an incredible amount of experience throughout the course of a deployment to Iraq. Some Soldiers, like Staff Sgt. Charles Jackson, here for the beginning, middle and the end of OIF, have gained more than others.

Jackson, an intel analyst with the 36th Sust Bde, 13th ESC, reflected on the many changes he has noticed during his 3 tours in Iraq.  Jackson said this deployment was much like his other 2 deployments, serving as an intel analyst to take bits of intel from different sources, to create a big picture of what is happening in Iraq.    

The situation in Iraq has changed during his deployments, and the number of daily attacks in Iraq has dropped considerably, he said. "The bad guys are a lot more organized now than they were during OIF I, but not necessarily as strong as they were during my 2nd deployment," Jackson said. "That was kind of the height of the insurgency. They have better structure. The ones that are fighting us now are the ones that are going to fight until the end. There are a lot of insurgents, that somewhere along the way, lost interest. The ones that are still fighting after 7 years are trying to see it through."
    
The sectarian violence really spiked during his 2nd deployment, but some of it's still happening, to a less severe extent, he said. "The average Iraqi is just ready for it all to be over," Jackson said. "They're ready for us to go, and ready for a stable country. The society seems to be a little more empowered, a little more confident now that they're headed in the right direction."
    
Jackson said during his initial deployment to Iraq his most enduring moment was the convoy from Kuwait to Tikrit which took almost 3 days. "It was a surreal experience," he said. "Here I am in a foreign country, in a combat zone, and we're driving up the highway seeing burned out vehicles, and buses with bullet holes in the sides and windows," Jackson said. 

Jackson said that one of his most humbling moments also happened during his 1st tour, when he convoyed into the Kurdish controlled area of Iraq, with one of the female officers in his unit. "At one of our stops, the kids gathered around us.  I had a female captain that I worked with, and I remember one of the little Iraqi girls looking at her, and she had this look of amazement," Jackson said. "Here is this woman standing here in uniform, and it really hit me that they don't necessarily see a lot of opportunity over here, and here is this little girl looking at a female captain in the Army and I don't know if she's thinking, 'Maybe I could do that one day,' or ‘maybe I can do what I want one day.’ The look on her face; that she was just amazed to see a female authority figure like that. I was kind of shocked and humbled, and it gave me hope for their future."

Lt. Col. Craig Schneider, intel officer-in-charge with the 36th Sust. Bde., said that Jackson brings an amazing amount of knowledge and experience to the brigade. "Jackson brought with him skills with the Command Post of the Future system, and working with databases, so he was able to just flow us into that.  He's worked in intel plans positions, as well as the administrative side of security, so he has a lot of breadth in the job," Schneider said. 

-30-

Blackanthem Military News

NCAA football coaches visit 13th ESC

Story and photos by Spc. Naveed Ali Shah

U.S. Military Academy head football coach Rich Ellerson (right), speaks with Soldiers of the 13th ESC, May 28 at JBB, during the National Collegiate Athletic Assn Coaches Tour 2010, sponsored by the USO and Morale Entertainment. The tour brought coaches from the University of Illinois, the University of Oregon, Harvard University and USMA to visit Soldiers in Europe and the Iraq theater of ops. 

JOINT BASE BALAD - The coaches, visiting from various colleges across the U.S. were University of Oregon head coach Chip Kelly, University of Illinois head coach Ron Zook, Harvard University head coach Tim Murphy, and U.S. Military Academy head coach Rich Ellerson.

Soldiers with the 13th ESC turned out in droves to get their memorabilia autographed by the coaches, and gain insight into some of the minds that drive the popular sport through every season.

For many of the Soldiers, the chance to meet the Army football coach was about more than just football.  "It's so cool for them to come out here," said 1st Lt. Beth Sutey, the theater backlog officer for the 14th Transportation Bn, 13th ESC, and a 2007 graduate of West Point.  "When I was in school, I never missed a game. For the Army coach to come out here is huge," said Sutey. "For the coach to see his players and cadets, and see where their careers took them is great."

For Ellerson, Army's head coach, the visit held a special meaning.  "My situation is a little bit different as a football coach," he said. "I'm learning to tell this story. I have to articulate about the game, but also about the ultimate destination, which for most of my guys is here in Iraq or Afghanistan."

Harvard University head football coach Tim Murphy (seated), speaks with Soldiers, who had the chance to get autographs and talk football with the men they watch on the sidelines every Saturday on television. 

University of Illinois head football coach Ron Zook speaks with 1st Lt. Sean Devine, a mobility plans officer. 

-30-

June 6, 2010

ISF kill suspected AQI leader, two associates in northern Iraq

BAGHDAD - ISF killed a suspected AQI senior leader and 2 criminal assocs during a joint security op, June 5.  ISF and U.S. advisors conducted a vehicle interdiction to arrest a suspected senior AQI leader, who is allegedly responsible for incorporating foreigners into AQI and facilitating terrorist ops in southern Mosul.

As the security team approached the vehicle in which the warranted individual was believed to be occupying, the warranted individual and assocs presented a threat to the SECFOR, and acting in self-defense fired and killed 3 individuals, including the wanted AQI leader.

-30-

Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/6-08

Dear Interested Reader,

Delaware ETT/New Zealand PRT adopt an orphanage in Bamyan prov.  A tribute to a Marine patriot.  ANSF secure Barg-e Matal in Nuristan prov.  Catching up on Operational Updates.

Iraq:  Convoy escort team assists in drawdown at Al Asad Air Base.  15th Sust. Bde. hands mission off to 3rd Sust. Bde.  'Dragon' bde Soldiers remember Memorial Day in Tikrit.  A look at TF Saber at Al Asad.

Joanna

______________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Delaware ETT/New Zealand PRT Adopt an orphanage

Story and photos by Army Pfc. Roy Mercon

 

Staff Sgt. Peter Ladensack, a Soldier attached to the Delaware ETT, part of the 86th IBCT, plays with a baby during a visit to an orphanage, May 26. The Delaware ETT and the New Zealand PRT delivered and assembled bunk beds for the orphanage, and gave out clothing, toys and stuffed animals to the kids. 

BAMYAN PROVINCE - The Maori people of New Zealand have a saying: “he tangata, he tangata, he tangata,” or, literally “the people, the people, the people.”  In Bamyan, New Zealand Army Maj. Kevin Brophy can’t keep the phrase out of his mind.

The Padre of the New Zealand PRT has a natural need to help people, as is expected of all chaplains.  A resident of Taranaki, New Zealand, Brophy’s main job is to facilitate the emotional and spiritual needs of the CF at Kiwi Base, located in the capital district of the prov.  

When not providing services for Kiwi, American or Singaporean Soldiers, Brophy has one major concern on his plate:  a small orphanage, which he took under his wing with the help of CF.  “It’s not like our arms are pulled here, but, one look at the kids, and it becomes impossible to look the other way,”said Brophy.

Brophy made the Samir Samad orphanage, which services around 65 displaced kids, his pet project while he completes his 6-month tour of duty.  He and the NZPRT visited the orphanage on several occasions to bring the children much needed supplies. 

When the Kiwis came to the school, driving up-armored SUVs, the kids dropped everything they were doing and ran out to greet them.  Most were in school, which brought a scolding from the teachers.  What mattered more than school to the orphans were the potential surprises the NZPRT was bringing today.

The older children assisted the Kiwis who unloaded the pieces needed to construct the beds.  The younger kids ran around the Soldiers involved with other tasks; some Soldiers being pulled by small hands to various parts of the orphanage.  One child excitedly pointed at his home country on a map, then pointed to New Zealand, showing where he was, and where his help had come from.

With the help of the older kids, the Kiwis and the Americans built only one bunk-bed outside the orphanage. This was a classic example of the ‘give a man a fish, and he will have food for a day, but teach a man to fish, and he will have food forever’ doctrine that Brophy likes to use during his work in Bamyan. The orphanage learned how to build their own beds, allowing for future repairs and construction without the help of CF.

With one child clinging to the Padre with tears in his eyes, begging the man not to go, the NZPRT and the American ETT waved good-bye to the children. Their job was done this day. However, this will not be the last time the Kiwis and U.S. Forces will grace the orphanage with their presence.  A major kitchen-remodeling project is in the works, and an exposed wire burial project is in the near future.
 
The Padre put it best when he said that it isn’t the missions or patrols that one goes on that he remembers the most.  It’s the people, the people, the people.

 

Maj. Kevin Brophy, the Padre (Chaplain) swings with a little girl during a visit to her orphanage.  

 

Staff Sgt. Peter Ladensack shows local children the proper way to assemble a bunk bed. 

-30-

Published June 5, 2010

A Marine who 'wanted to die for something' 

By Mark Armstrong, The Daily Times; and Paul Weber, AP

Jonathan Leicht, left, and Jesse Leicht show a photo of their brother, Marine Cpl. Jacob Leicht in Kerrville, Texas.  Leicht, 24, was killed while on patrol May 27. (ERIC GAY/AP)

KERRVILLE, Texas -- Marine Cpl. Jacob Leicht was buried with full military honors today at Garden of Memories Cemetery in Kerrville. He was 24.  Born on the Fourth of July, Leicht was described by friends and family as the “ultimate Marine” who wanted to serve his country. Fellow Marines speaking at the funeral described how Leicht was severely wounded in his 1st tour in Iraq, nearly losing his leg, but fought his way to return to active duty in Afghanistan in April.

(Leicht had begged to return to the battlefield after a bomb took out his Humvee in Iraq. The blast had snapped Jacob Leicht's fibula and tibula. The recovery was an agonizing ordeal of pins, rods and bolts drilled into his bones.  He spent 2 painful years recovering from face and leg injuries.  However, all Leicht could think about was going back.  He launched a campaign for himself at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, writing letters and making phone calls about returning to combat.  More than 2 years later, he was finally healthy enough to serve again.) (Paul Weber, AP)

“He’s leaving a legacy behind and inspiring other people,” said Sgt. Nicholas Brandau, who was in the humvee with Leicht in Iraq in 2007, when they hit that explosive device that injured 4 Marines. “Probably the most comforting thing is to know that he is still alive because of that legacy.”

Cpl. Christopher Bordages also served with Leicht in Iraq and said he had been prepared to leave the Marine Corps, when he visited him as he was undergoing 18 surgeries in order to recover from his wounds.  “He reminded me a lot of why I joined the Marine Corps, and I wanted to be like him,” Bordages said.

(He finally got back to the front lines, but was killed less than a month into the tour of duty he desperately wanted.  "He said he always wanted to die for his country and be remembered," said Jesse Leicht, his younger brother. "He didn't want to die having a heart attack or just being an old man. He wanted to die for something."

For Leicht, born in a Navy hospital, the battlefield was the destination.  He threw away a college ROTC scholarship after just one semester because he feared it would lead away from the front lines. "His greatest fear was that they would tell him he would have to sit at a desk for the rest of his life," said Jonathan Leicht, his older brother.)  (Paul Weber, AP)

Bordages, who re-enlisted and attempted to join the same light armored recon bn as Leicht, is preparing for his next deployment to Afghanistan. His unit is scheduled to replace Leicht’s.
“Cpl. Leight, I love you brother. Semper Fidelis and God speed,” Bordages said.

Along with a detail of U.S. Marines, the procession for Leicht was escorted by Kerrville police, Kerr County Sheriff’s deputies, area firefighters, Ingram police, Texas Dept of Public Safety troopers, and Patriot Guard Riders.  The streets along the processional route were lined by people waving flags paying respects to Leicht and his family.

‘Semper Fidelis and Godspeed’

-30-

Blackanthem Military News

Afghan National Security Forces secure Barg-e Matal

By ISAF Joint Command - Afghanistan

NURISTAN PROVINCE - ANSF, aided by ISAF, secured the Barg-e Matal district center, June 3. This op is in response to the large amount of insurgent activity in the area during previous weeks.

A sizeable number of ANSF, assisted by a small contingent of coalition partners, are participating in the op.  ISAF units supported the ANSF op by delivering the troops.

"This successful op by Afghan forces will return governance to Barg-e Matal," said Zemarai Bashary, the Ministry of Interior spokesman. "This op shows the improved planning and operational capabilities of our joint forces, in response to serious incidents even in the most remote locations of Afghanistan."

.

-30-

Blackanthem Military News

Operational Update, June 4

By ISAF Joint Command - Afghanistan

LOGAR PROVINCE - A Taliban sub-cmdr and a suspected insurgent were captured by an Afghan-ISAF, June 3.  The combined force captured the sub-cmdr, responsible for IED and small- arms attacks against CF, while searching a compound in the village of Muchkeyl, Kharwar district, after intel info confirmed insurgent activity.  When confronted, the Taliban cmdr, who has ties to the Haqqani network, immediately surrendered, and identified himself as the targeted insurgent.

GHAZNI PROVINCE - A separate Afghan-ISAF detained several individuals suspected of insurgent activity, June 3 last night.  The combined force detained the suspected insurgents while searching a compound in the village of Bar Nowruzk, Qarah Bagh district.

FARAH PROVINCE - A coalition helicopter killed multiple insurgents as they were moving to a fighting position, June 3.  Aircraft were directed to a cave complex in a rural area of Gulistan district.  After observing widely separated groups of armed men moving to prepared fighting positions away from the caves, aircraft engaged a group, killing the insurgents.

-30-

Blackanthem Military News

Operational Update, June 1

By ISAF Joint Command - Afghanistan

KHOST PROVINCE - Several Haqqani network cmdrs, and other assocs. were captured by an Afghan-ISAF the night of May 31, and early the morning of June 1. The combined SECFOR captured the targeted insurgents at several sites around the village of Nuri Kalay, Sabari district, after intel info confirmed insurgent activity.  The Haqqani network facilitators are responsible for planning and executing multiple IED attacks and militant ops against CF, supplying weapons and directing attacks in the Sabari and Yaqubi districts. 

FARAH PROVINCE - A separate Afghan-ISAF detained several individuals suspected of militant activity in Gulistan district, May 31. CF captured them in a vehicle, in a rural area.

--In another security op, several insurgents were killed by an Afghan-ISAF, May 31. The SECFOR interdicted a vehicle in Gulistan district. As the assault force approached the vehicle, they came under small-arms fire. The combined force returned fire killing the insurgents.

KABUL PROVINCE - A Taliban sub-cmdr was captured by an Afghan-ISAF, May 31. The combined force went to a rural area in the Tarnek wa Jaldak district.  During a search of the area, the assault force captured the Taliban sub-cmdr responsible for planning, coordinating, and leading attacks against CF in the Tarnek wa Jaldak and Qalat districts.

BADGHIS PROVINCE - An Afghan-ISAF patrol discovered a weapons cache in Murghab district, May 31. The cache consisted of 4 120mm mortars, several 82mm mortars and 107mm rockets, complete IEDs and IED making materials.

-30-

Blackanthem Military News

Operational Update, May 31

By ISAF Joint Command - Afghanistan

KANDAHAR PROVINCE - An Afghan-ISAF used a precision air strike to kill Taliban cmdr Haji Amir, 1 of the 2 most senior Taliban leaders, and several of his fighters, May 30, in Panjwa’i district.

Haji Amir and his fighters had been tracked for several days, and when they stopped at a small unoccupied mud hut in a farming area near the village of Zangabad, the combined force called in the air strike. The Taliban leader operated throughout Dand, Zhari and Panjwa’i districts. He escaped from Sarposa Prison in a Taliban coordinated prison break in June, 2008.

Most recently Amir had been in Pakistan planning the Taliban’s upcoming attacks, and he returned to Afghanistan in April to lead attacks against coalition and Afghan forces.

HELMAND PROVINCE - A separate Afghan-ISAF detained multiple individuals while searching a series of compounds May 30.  The combined force went to compounds in a rural area north of Lashkar Gar, Nahr-e Saraj district.  Several of the suspects fled the compound areas, but were quickly and safely caught.  Weapons and approx 30 kgs of wet opium were seized during the search.

-30-

Blackanthem Military News

Operational Update, May 29

By ISAF Joint Command - Afghanistan

BAGHLAN PROVINCE - An Afghan-ISAF used precision air strikes to kill the Taliban shadow gov., and several of his fighters, May 28.  Aircraft were called to a rural area in Baghlan-e Jadid district after human intel sources confirmed 2 vehicles were transporting insurgents and weapons through the area.  Before engaging, CF waited until the vehicles were well clear of any structures to minimize the possibility of civilian casualties. When the armed passengers left the vehicles they were engaged and killed by aircraft.

A ground SECFOR then entered the area and came under fire from insurgents in a nearby cave. The assault force returned fire, killing several insurgents who were heavily armed with a heavy machine gun, multiple RPGs, automatic rifles, hand-grenades, ammo and communications equipment.

The Taliban shadow gov. was responsible for organizing and directing attacks against CF. He was in constant contact with Kunduz and Pakistani Taliban senior leaders, providing updates and receiving guidance.  Sources told CF the Taliban forces had been planning an attack on a nearby ANP outpost.

KANDAHAR PROVINCE - An Afghan-ISAF killed several insurgents and captured several others, May 29.  The combined force moved to a compound and surrounding areas south of Kudeza'I, in the Zharay district. As the assault force approached, several armed individuals took up fighting positions in a nearby wood line and orchard. The combined force called for the individuals to surrender, but they began firing machine guns and RPGs at the SECFOR, who returned fire and began clearing the compound and immediate area.

Several insurgents were killed and captured after the lengthy firefight. The combined force found several planted IEDs in the area, as well as RPGs, heavy machine guns, multiple automatic rifles, hand-grenades, ammo and communications equipment.

--A separate Afghan-ISAF captured a Taliban cmdr and several individuals suspected of militant activity, May 28.  The Taliban cmdr was captured after the security team interdicted a vehicle in the Panjwa'i district.  He's responsible for planning and executing attacks against CF, and was also involved in kidnappings and weapons facilitation.

KHOST PROVINCE - Another Afghan-ISAF detained several individuals suspected of insurgent activity, May 29.  The combined force went to a building in the village of Shegay, Musa Khel district. The men suspected of insurgent involvement were detained during a search of the building and the surrounding area.  The joint force found RPGs and automatic rifles at the site.

WARDAK PROVINCE - An Afghan-ISAF captured a Taliban weapons facilitator and another militant, May 29.  The combined force went to a compound east of Soltan Kheyl, Sayyidabad district. The assault force detained a suspected Taliban facilitator, believed to be responsible for buying and distributing weapons to Taliban networks, and another suspected insurgent, while searching the buildings. The SECFOR came under fire from a sniper and returned fire, killing him.  The search team found multiple automatic rifles and ammo.

-30-

IRAQI STORIES:

Blackanthem Military News

Convoy escort team assists in drawdown

Story and photos by Sgt. Kimberly Johnson

Soldiers with B Co, 3rd Bn, 156th Inf Regt, 256th IBCT, 13th ESC prepare to depart COB Kalsu, May 23, providing security for a convoy carrying mission essential supplies.

AL ASAD AIR BASE - A convoy appears as shadows in the night.  It's halted along its route through Iraq, waiting hours for a roadside bomb to be cleared.  Infantryman peer deep into the darkness; their vision and alertness an impenetrable shield for fellow Soldiers.

That can be the setting for an action-packed movie, but it's a typical mission for Soldiers with 3rd Bn, who provide security for theater assets being moved from base to base. "Our job is to protect base supply lines," said Staff Sgt. Gabrial Rhodes, convoy cmdr with B Co.

As the upcoming responsible drawdown in Iraq approaches, more equipment used in OIF is reallocated to different areas in the U.S. Central Command theater of ops, while some are sent back to the U.S. The U.S. military ensures the safe delivery of mission essential equipment to its final destination. 3rd Bn. is one of the units that provides security to facilitate the safe accomplishment of such missions.

"As we pull resources out of theater, we consolidate them to the collection point," said 1st Lt. Donald Bolton, plt leader with B Co. "We escort the trucks that haul the resources, so we directly affect the drawdown."

During the last few convoy escort-missions the unit conducts, it will incorporate training with the unit taking over its mission.  The guys are excited about doing something different, Bolton said.  "Our unit specifically has to turn in all the equipment we'll no longer need," Bolton said. "That's one of our big tasks. We have to turn in all the equipment units have been using for years. It's a huge part of our transition."

1st Lt. Donald Bolton (center), plt leader with B Co, adjusts his improved outer tactical vest,  as his plt prepares to depart Al Asad Air Base.

-30-

Backanthem Military News

15th Sust. Bde. hands mission off to the 3rd Sust. Bde.

Story and photos by Staff Sgt. Rob Strain

Col. Larry Phelps (left), cmdr of 15th Sust Bde, 13th ESC and Command Sgt. Maj. Nathaniel Bartee Sr., command sgt maj with the 15th Sust. Bde., case the bde's colors during a transfer of authority ceremony May 25, at JBB. The 15th Sust. Bde. passed their sustainment mission to the 3rd Sust. Bde. during the ceremony. 

JOINT BASE BALAD -  "This ceremonial transition of authority is truly a significant moment in the history of our global war on terrorism," said Brig. Gen. Paul Wentz, cmdr of the 13th ESC. "With this passing of colors, we begin to lay in the final pieces of the enduring footprint, for our final phase of ops here in Iraq."

The sustainment mission has seen a number of changes since Oct., including restructuring from 5 sust. bdes in the country to just 2, Wentz said. "I especially want to credit the Wagonmaster Soldiers for the role they've played during this transitional period, and for their courage to take on more responsibilities than any other sust. bde in the history of OIF," Wentz said.

Since Oct., the 15th Sust. Bde. has integrated the capabilities of 7 different CSSBs and their STB, totaling nearly 7,000 Soldiers, located on 25 different bases throughout northern and central Iraq, Wentz said.

The 15th Sust. Bde. had been training for this deployment for a long time by supporting the units at Fort Hood, Texas, before the unit deployed, said Col. Larry Phelps, cmdr of the 15th Sust. Bde. "It has all come to fruition on this day," Phelps said.

Phelps thanked the cmdrs and Soldiers of each of the bde's previous subordinate units.
"They can rest assured in the knowledge that they made a difference, and made every day better," Phelps said.

During the ceremony, the bdes' STBs also transferred authority, passing Habur Gate and the country's finance and human resources missions over to the 3rd STB, said Lt. Col. Paula Lodi, the 15th STB's cmdr.  The STB will still focus on redeployment missions and the closure of COB Q-West, Lodi said.  "I'm in awe of what you're able to accomplish individually and collectively on a daily basis throughout this tour," Lodi said. 

Phelps thanked the 3rd Sust. Bde. command team for making the transition an easy one, and offered a little insight to their future. "The meek may inherit the Earth, but the 3rd SB gets the mission," Phelps said. "We know you will do a great job."

Lt. Col. Paula Lodi, cmdr of 15th STB, 15th Sust Bde, 13th ESC, and Command Sgt. Maj. Clarence Miller Jr., command sgt maj with 15th STB, 15th Sust. Bde., case the bn's colors. 

-30-

Blackanthem Military News

'Dragon' brigade Soldiers remember Memorial Day

By Spc. Shantelle J. Campbell

TIKRIT - For many Americans, Memorial Day is just another govt holiday - a day off from work or school - but for the Families and friends of service members who died while serving their country; it's the last Monday in May, where the memories of the fallen are honored.

For Capt Simon Welte, cmdr of Bravo Btry, 2nd Bn, 32nd FAR, 4th IBCT, 1st ID, out of Fort Riley, Kan., Memorial Day evokes deep emotion, and deserves to be recognized by all Americans for what it represents and who it honors.
     
"When you sit down and think about where we are and where we came from, a lot of that is due to the veterans who gave their lives to serve this country (and) didn't get to enjoy those freedoms that they provided for other people," said Welte, who is currently on his 2nd deployment. "It's a hugely significant (holiday); and if you take the time to sit back and think about it, I think you'd be hard-pressed not to find some emotions tied to that day."

Capt Welte recalled the time he returned home from his first deployment. He remembered how even with people thanking him on Memorial Day and Veterans' Day for his service and sacrifice, he never really thought of himself as a veteran.

"It never really donned on me that at such a young age, at 24, that I was a veteran and had served my country," said Welte. "It's kind of humbling to think about. It evokes a lot of proud feelings, and allows you to step back and put a lot of things into perspective."
   
Sgt William Coyle, an infantryman with HHC, 4th IBCT, is currently on his 3rd deployment and his 2nd deployment to Iraq.  He said that Memorial Day is one of the most important holidays, because it embodies the sacrifices made by the ones who fought for our country's freedoms. 

-30-

Blackanthem Military News

A look at Task Force Saber at Al Asad 

Story and photo by Spc. Roland Hale

Chief Warrant Officer 2 Adam Garner, an OH-58D Kiowa Warrior helicopter pilot from 1st Sqdrn, 6th Cav Regt, conducts a pre-flight inspection of his aircraft, May 19. 

CAMP AL ASAD - The phrase "strength in numbers" means nothing to a handful of aviators. 
While flying what's considered the world's most advanced military helicopters, these aviators need nothing more than their wingman and a trusty ground crew, to take the fight to the enemy.

An assault helicopter co., and scout recon troop from CAB, 1st ID, along with a medical evacuation co. from 101st AD currently form a small element of TF Saber, which is tasked with providing hasty and reliable air support to the Anbar prov.

"We're here to broaden the coverage of the bde," said Capt. Wes Ogden, an OH-58D Kiowa Warrior helicopter pilot, and the officer-in-charge of the TF ops section. "They put us out here so we can react quickly."

TF Saber is part of CAB, 1st ID:  the companies on Al Asad are an even smaller det. of the TF.  Comparable to a small bn, TF Saber is able to provide rapid response to many situations. "Being able to work between airframes, with both the UH-60 [Black Hawk] and the OH-58, it broadens the base of our ops," said Ogden.

"The different ways we plan and execute missions had to change. The Black Hawks, for example, require several hours to prepare for missions, which is a lot more than we're used to with the Kiowas," said Ogden.  "Being away from Camp Taji, we've got more responsibility and also we've got the ability to be more creative, and come up with new ideas and implement those," said Ogden.

The diversity of the TF internal structure, paired with the creative capability of its command, is paying off - most recently with a call-for-fire exercise conducted with field artillerymen from 1st Advise and Assist Bde, 82nd AD, and the IA.

-30-

flickr

Game Changer

(Army photo by Spc. Roland Hale) 

 

CAMP TAJI - Chief Warrant Officer 5 Dave Miller, a pilot with CAB, 1st ID, flies an AH-64 Apache flight simulator on Camp Taji, June 2, 2010.  Miller gave simulator rides to several Soldiers from the CAB's HHC as a reward for great job performance, since the unit deployed here this spring. 

 

-30-

Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/6-07

Dear Interested Reader,

Andar ANP welcome Ghazni PRT.  Panjshir PRT dedicates a new school in Pawat.  Army Maj. Gen. Curtis Scaparrotti receives France's highest award.  America's newest citizens sworn in at BAF.  Insurgents captured in combined air assault in Paktika prov.

Iraq:  Family of Santiagos deliver a broadcast.  Artist/Soldier at COB Marez.  Woodworker/

Soldier creates functional art at COB Marez.  Suspected terrorists arrested in Baghdad, while others are killed/arrested in Northern Iraq.

Joanna

____________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Andar ANP welcome Ghazni PRT

Story and photos by AF 2nd Lt. Katherine Roling 

ANP greet Polish soldiers and the Ghazni PRT, May 29, at the Andar District Center. Their police chief, Col. Patang, died fighting insurgents May 22, but the group banded together and the ANP maintained their positions.  Afghan Col. Sardar, the dep. chief, replaced him shortly afterward. The Ghazni PRT visited Andar district to discover what the current situation was at the district center, and to speak to the ANP. 

GHAZNI PROVINCE - Andar is also in the midst of a hostage crisis, following the kidnapping of 24 university and high school students between 15 and 20 years old, May 21, and murder of 11 of them. The entire province of Ghazni shut down businesses to mourn and protest the murders, May 23. 

Hafizullah, counter-terrorist police chief said that the insurgents kidnapped the students while they were on the way to their homes or their cars, but not at school. The insurgents are intent on disrupting the lives of the people, Hafizullah pointed out. Currently, the insurgents have closed off the mosques and no one can pray, he said.

The Ghazni PRT understands the great risk the Andar ANP experience every day and hopes to maintain relations with the police.  “We appreciate the very hard and dangerous work you do to fight the insurgents,” said Jason Crosby, Dept of State rep with the Ghazni PRT.

An ANP stands guard at the gate to the Andar District Center, which had been attacked by insurgents. 

Hafizullah, counter-terrorist police chief, stands outside the Andar District Center with the Ghazni PRT.  He spoke to the PRT about the kidnappings and the recent death of Col.  Patang, who was well-known for his leadership abilities, that pulled the ANP together. 

-30-

CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Panjshir PRT Dedicates a New School in Pawat

Story and photos by Army Sgt. John Young 

 

Local community leaders and hundreds of spectators turned out for a new school dedication in the town of Pawat, June 2. They celebrated the completion of the new secondary school, a year-long construction project facilitated by the Panjshir PRT. 

PANJSHIR PROVINCE – Many speakers, including the Panjshir Dep. Gov. Kabiri, came to praise the work of the Panjshir PRT, and to thank them for their latest efforts to advance education in Panjshir.
 

“All the young men and women have the opportunity to better themselves,” said  AF Lt. Col. Curtis Velasquez, Panjshir PRT cmdr. “They can be optimistic about their future in a land where past generations saw nothing but war and tragedy.”

Even as the completion of the school is celebrated in Parwat, Velasquez looks forward to future projects in the prov. “We've 2 other schools that will be finished in the next month, and 2 more that will be completed by the end of the summer,” Velasquez said. “We've the capacity to build more, but we work with the provincial govt to assure they have the capacity to staff them.”

The next step in educating the population of Panjshir is the Jhenj communication center.  “The center opens the opportunity to bring a different type of educational progress to the prov.,” Velasquez said. “They'll have the ability to study on their own, connect to the Internet, and open up new horizons by connecting to the world.”
    
During the dedication, some concerns were raised about future projects in the prov.  Seeing the opportunity to listen to the concerns of the town’s officials, the PRT attended a typical Afghan lunch, where they talked over the concerns for the future. 
    
“We came for a dedication and it evolved into a constructive talk on the future, and what we can do to better plan and complete projects, Velasquez said. “It was a great way for us to learn how to facilitate better relations in the future.”

Deputy Gov. Kabiri address the crowd at the opening of a secondary school.

-30-

CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

CJTF-82 commander receives highest honor from France

Story and photo by AF Tech Sgt. Aileen Carter, Combined Joint TF PA 

BAGRAM AIRFIELD - Army Maj. Gen. Curtis Scaparrotti (right), cmdr. of Combined Joint TF-82 and Regional Command - East, receives the Légion d'honneur, (National Order of the Legion of Honor), from French Brig. Gen. Pierre Chavancy, TF Lafayette cmdr., June 1.  Gen. Chavancy presented this award to Gen. Scaparrotti on behalf of President Nicolas Sarkozy of France. This is the highest decoration awarded in France.  Gen. Scaparrotti received this award for his contribution to RC-East and serving alongside the French military during his leadership here. 

-30-

CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

America’s newest citizens sworn in at BAF

Story and photo by Army Sgt. Charles Espie

 

BAGRAM AIRFIELD – 71 Servicemembers from 36 different countries take the Oath of Allegiance to become U.S. citizens during a naturalization ceremony at Bagram Airfield, June 3, 2010.  Guests of honor at the event were Amb. Karl Eikenberry; Army Maj. Gen. Curtis Scaparrotti, comm. gen. of Combined Joint TF-82; Ms. Dawn Liberi, senior civilian rep of CJTF-82; and Command Sgt. Maj. Thomas Capel, command sgt major of CJTF-82. (Photo by Army Staff Sgt. Susan Wilt, Combined Joint TF-82 Public Affairs)

BAGRAM AIRFIELD – While the naturalization candidates come from a variety of places and backgrounds, each one of them has something in common – they all chose to wear the uniform of a country that was not their own.

In 2002, Pres.George W. Bush signed into law Executive Order 13269, which allowed for expedited naturalization for anyone serving on active duty during the War on Terrorism.  

“In 2004, Pres. Bush directed my agency, by executive order, to travel to any location to provide naturalization for U.S. service members who wish to obtain U.S. citizenship,” said Robert Looney, District Dir. of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Bangkok District.  “Before that order, applicants could only naturalize while in the U.S.  That order had been strengthened by law, and the mandate continued by Pres. Obama.”

The naturalization ceremonies held at Bagram have become a bi-annual tradition, taking place on Memorial Day and Veteran’s Day.  More than 100 fellow servicemembers attended the ceremony to watch their comrades become citizens.

“I think it’s a tremendous example that you’ve got a group of young men and women here who for years have taken an oath of allegiance to our constitution, and put themselves in harm’s way,” said Karl Eikenberry, Amb. to Afghanistan.  “I can’t think of anyone who more deserves to become a citizen of the U.S.A. than somebody who has served in the U.S. Armed Forces.”

Army Spc. Pieter Laubscher and Amb. Eikenberry, shake hands after Laubscher was presented his naturalization certificate.  Eikenberry presented the new citizens with their naturalization certificates and spoke at the ceremony. 

-30-

CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

ANSF, B 3-187 capture 5 insurgents in combined air assault

Written by Army 1st Lt. R.J. Peek

In a joint op, ANSF and Soldiers with Co B, 3rd Bn, 187th Inf Regt, 3rd BCT, 101st AD, prepare to load into a CH-47 Chinook helicopter to conduct an air assault mission in Shin Tsa village of the Shakilabad district, May 31. During the mission, the combined force captured 5 insurgents, ammo, weapons, explosive-making materials, and some equipment. 

PAKTIKA PROVINCE – ANSF, partnered with B Company, 3rd Battalion, 187th Infantry Regiment, captured five insurgents in an air assault operation in the vicinity of Shin Tsa village of the Shakilabad district, May 31.

Reacting to intel reports of militant forces, the combined assault force searched the village, and detained 2 insurgents on a motorcycle, and confiscated an AK-47, a radio, and multiple chest rack systems.

The units then moved to a neighboring village in pursuit of more suspected insurgents, capturing 3. Afghan forces also found 4 bandoleers of ammo, that included armor piercing rounds, Enfield-style rifles, cell phones, tapes of insurgent propaganda, and an assortment of explosive-making materials.  

“I think the mission was a huge success, and in the future I hope to do a lot more air assaults, so we can strike at the heart of where the insurgents operate,” said Asadullah, the Zarghun Shahr National Directorate of Security chief.

Army Capt. Aaron Schwengler, cmdr of Co B, from Bismarck, N.D., agreed, adding that the 5 detainees could yield crucial evidence needed to help secure the district. “The gathered intel on the insurgents’ leadership in the area will drive future ops to disrupt them in the Shakilabad and Jani Khel areas,” said Schwengler. 

-30-

DVIDS

3-321 FAR registers their target

Written by Army Spc. Richard Daniels Jr. 

KUNAR PROVINCE – Soldiers of the B Btry, 3rd Bn, 321st FAR, 18th Fires Bde (Abn), 82nd AD, shoot multiple rounds to register their target, in support of FOB Joyce, Mar. 27. 

-30-

IRAQI STORIES:

Blackanthem Military News

Family of Santiagos Deliver a Broadcast

Story and photos by Sgt. Eunice Alicea Valentin

Staff Sgt. Steve Engle, broadcast NCO with the 196th Mobile PA Det, 13th ESC, prepares a camera May 13, for the taping and live interview of the Santiago Family, via satellite and the Digital Video & Imagery Distribution System, housed at the 13th ESC PA office at JBB.

JOINT BASE BALAD - The band of Santiagos, all assigned to the 210th Regional Support Group, an Army Reserve unit from Puerto Rico, enter a dimly lit broadcast studio, igniting the room as Boricuas are known to do.

As the 4 Soldiers walk through a maze of tripods, cables and towering lights, their excitement echoes off the walls, as they whisper in Spanish slang to one another. Their silhouettes fall on top of a backdrop and suspended American flag, as they take their seats behind a presidential-style mahogany desk, a row of shotgun microphones, reporters and a single video camera.
   
Bayamon, Puerto Rico, natives, Sgt. Maj. Hector Santiago, finance and human resources ops cell NCO-in-charge and his younger brother, Spc. Alex A.M. Santiago, a finance specialist, both with the 210th RSG, are currently deployed to Iraq with their cousins, Spc. Victor Santiago and Spc. Jimmy Rodriguez, info technology specialists also the 210th RSG, and Ponce, Puerto Rico natives.  The 4 Soldiers had a unique opportunity May 13 to communicate back home via satellite and the DVIDS.

"We're small in numbers, but we make lots of noise," Rodriguez said, a common saying by Latinos who, by culture, enjoy getting together any chance they get.  All joking aside, the Santiago Family was tasked to carry out an important assignment.

The DVIDS hub in Atlanta reaches out to the Soldiers' local media outlets, and vice versa, hoping to get an individual's message back to their hometowns, as a firsthand account of their experiences in Iraq, said Sgt. 1st Class William Smith, broadcast NCO-in-charge with the 196th Mobile PA Det, 13th ESC.   

The Soldiers conducted interviews in Spanish throughout La Isla de Encanto (the Island of Enchantment), an island in the Caribbean Sea, with an area less than 3,600 square miles and a population of nearly 4 million.  1st Lt. David Spangler, media relations officer with the 196th MPAD, is the liason between DVIDS and the interviewers.  "I contact DVIDS and DVIDS contacts the hometowns, so Soldiers can tell their stories firsthand," he said.  

Ruben Sanchez, a notably boisterous air personality with WKAQ-AM, interviewed the Family live and said the interview with the Soldiers was beautiful. "Rather than our broadcasters retelling the Soldiers' story, we're able to facilitate interviews between Soldiers' and their hometown media," Smith said.

Puerto Ricans are known for their confidence and coolness, and these Soldiers are no exception to the rule.  Sgt. Maj. Santiago, a 20-year veteran, spoke of camaraderie and professionalism within his unit.  He said Puerto Ricans are known for their hard work.

Another topic of discussion was the financial and political state of the small island, and its correlation to the advancements of their military careers.  Without hesitation, the Soldiers said that the Army offered them the opportunity to advance,  and in Rodriguez' case, obtain dual master's degrees in human resources and mgt.  In addition, he plans to begin his doctorate in business administration upon his redeployment home.

The 3 specialists were thrilled about their experiences in the Army, since they enlisted 2 years ago, and gave a call to action.  Each expressed their contentment with their careers in the military, finishing one another's sentences, and bragging about life in the service. "Bueno, it helps that we're Family and we were very close before arriving in Iraq," Alex said. "My message to the youth of Puerto Rico is to join our Family." 

Spc. Victor Santiago (from left), Spc. Jimmy Rodriguez, Sgt. Maj. Hector Santiago, and his younger brother, Spc. Alex Santiago. 

-30-

Blackanthem Military News

Artist/Soldier at COB Marez

By Master Sgt. Duff McFadden

Charles "Matt" Gildon, 20, a fire support specialist with the HHC, 2nd "Spartan" HBCT, 3rd ID, applies the traditional Spartan red, white and blue to the Bde crest, outside of the unit's Tactical Ops Center (TOC), at COB Marez, in Mosul, May 24. 

(Army photo by Spc. Gregory Gieske)

COB MAREZ - Whether it's an M-4 rifle, night vision goggles, or even a pair of combat boots, deploying U.S. forces must be familiar with all the equipment needed to successfully complete their mission.  However, Gildon has found himself as much at home in Iraq with brushes and paint, as he does in a M-109A6 Paladin armored vehicle.

When his unit arrived in Kuwait for their final stage of mission training, their 1st sgt asked for Soldiers who could draw.  After being "volunteered," he embellished a T-wall barrier with the bde crest representing the unit at Camp Buehring, Kuwait.

According to Pfc. Gildon, it took him and graphic artist Spc. Gregory Gieske, 4 to 5 days to complete the Spartan mural in the Bde Conference Room #1. According to Spc. Gieske, 28, since the Bde was known as the "Spartans," Frank Miller's "300" graphic novel images immediately came to mind. 

"As we worked on the large wall mural, Pfc. Gildon displayed a lot of passion, and I could see the results, from start to finish, of the progress he was making as an artist.  Showing him the different types of brushes, and how to correctly use them, was just one area he grew in. 
"I've seen the other murals he's painted since then, and he continues to impress me with his willingness to learn," Spc. Gieske said.

His latest project was the Rock of the Marne monument located in the center of the TOC compound, representing all the military conflicts the 2HBCT has taken part in.  "The rock is a monument which everyone sees every day as they go to work," said Pfc Gildon. "It's something I take pride in.

"I just put my head phones on and let my mind go blank as I draw.  If I get more worried about screwing something up, then I'm more likely to get nervous and screw something up. So I like to be good and relaxed as I work," he said.

Whether he's listening to rock or heavy metal, the Rolling Stones or Slayer, once he begins the painting process, he's very deliberate. "I'll take the initial design and then measure everything out.  I'll detail it in a rough sketch using a pencil to make sure it all fits.  Once I know it fits, I'll write down the measurements and then go for it.

Pfc. Gildon recently re-enlisted for another 6 years, and plans to retire after 20 years of service.  Upon his return to the States, he wants to become an EOD Specialist, and upon retirement, looks to become a teacher.  A self-professed adrenaline junkie and master scuba diver, Pfc Gildon said "I'll do anything I can to get the adrenaline flowing - whether it's skateboarding, snowboarding, rock climbing, mountain biking, or even paint ball."

-30-

Backanthem Military News

Woodworker/Soldier creates functional art for 3/7th Cavalry

Story and photos by Master Sgt. Duff McFadden

Sgt 1st Class Carlos Feliciano, 48, the Force Protection NCO-in-charge for the 3rd Sqdrn, 7th Cav, 2nd HBCT, 3rd ID, works on an award stand for a redeploying Soldier.  Feliciano's innate ability to take an ordinary piece of wood and turn it into a beautiful piece of functional art goes beyond description. 

COB MAREZ - Approx 8 hours each day, as long as there are no emergencies demanding his attention, a meeting, or training, you'll find him at the unit's woodworking shop. The Cav office sign was his initial project.  It wasn't long before he was building other signs, poster frames, target trees for the ranges, and even a domino table for their Morale, Welfare and Recreation room.

Once the sqdrn recognized his immense talent, they benefitted by providing him further opportunities to express his functional artistry.  According to 3/7th Cav. XO, Maj. Steve Barry, "Feliciano has an amazing attention to detail, and a great work ethic.  He's the oldest man in the sqdrn, and he easily works 14 hours a day, doing manual labor with a minimum of help.  It's just really impressive.

Working with wood, he discovered, was his true calling.  "I like to be creative. Wood gives me the chance to be creative and to express myself. Wood is a living material, it speaks to you. You have to work it with love," Feliciano said.

A Puerto Rico NG Soldier for 17 years, he joined the active Army in 1998, "to improve the quality of life for my Family, and to give them a better future."  Now, 12 years later, his youngest son recently graduated from high school, while his oldest son, a freshman at Georgia Southern University, is enrolled in the Reserve Officer Training Corps there.  "I met my goal," said Sgt.1st Class Feliciano, with quiet satisfaction. "My Family has been taken care of, and since the third grade, they speak fluent English.

The hardest part has been all the deployments, as well as the initial shift in income.  "I actually made more money through woodworking than I made as a Soldier. However, I like to train Soldiers; I like the work.  Not everything is based on money," Feliciano said.  He's now on his 6th deployment, while his Family resides at Fort Stewart, Ga.  Besides his 2 tours to Afghanistan, he's taken part in Ops Iraqi Freedom II, III, V, and VII.

He plans to retire at Fort Stewart within 5 years and hopes to continue woodworking. Another option, he said, are friends from the county who would give him the opportunity to become a building inspector. "I like to build everything, so it's not a problem for me.  I can look at something and know what's right or wrong.  I can also be a handyman around housing, so there are a lot of places I could work."

When Maj. Barry returned to Iraq from leave, Sgt. 1st Class Feliciano had a little surprise waiting for the Cav EO. "I opened my door, turned on the light, and my first thought was, ‘This isn't my office; it must be the sgt's maj office,' so I stepped back out," said Maj. Barry. "But then I noticed, that it was my stuff sitting on the shelves. I was absolutely flabbergasted.  Before, all I had was a desk, a table and a tactical box.  "I was completely surprised and completely in awe. It's functional, it's organized, and I found out he did it all in 1-1/2 days."

"I try to help others the best I can.  A lot of Soldiers are fresh out of high school, and have never left home before.  I'm a friend who helps them with their needs.  I tell them, ‘It's not that hard. You can handle it.  You just need to be brave and to believe."'

"I thank God every day for the skills I have, and the ability to help others enjoy it," he said, with a smile.

Feliciano works at the unit's woodworking shop.

Feliciano carefully sands an award stand, and loves the creative, artistic energy he derives from woodworking. 

-30-

USF-I

ISF arrest three suspected AQI terrorists in Baghdad

BAGHDAD - ISF arrested 3 suspected AQI criminal assocs, during a joint security op conducted in Baghdad, June 4.

ISF and U.S. advisors searched several buildings for a suspected AQI member who is allegedly involved in construction of VBIEDs, and IEDs used in attacks, but did arrest 3 criminal assocs.

-30-

USF-I

ISF kill four suspected AQI terrorists, arrest three others

BAGHDAD - ISF killed 4 suspected AQI members and arrested 3 criminal assocs during a joint security op in northern Iraq, June 5.

In an area approx 40 kms south of Mosul, ISF and U.S. advisors searched multiple buildings for a suspected senior AQI leader, allegedly involved in VBIED and IED attacks on Iraqi civilians, ISF and CF.

As the security team approached the building in which the suspect was believed to be located, individuals inside the target compound lobbed grenades and fired automatic weapons at the SECFOR, who, acting in self- defense, returned fire killing 4.

Info and evidence gathered at the scene led Iraqi forces to identify and arrest suspected AQI criminal assocs.

-30-

Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/6-06

Dear Interested Reader,

TF Iron Gray visits Laghman prov. school.  FOB Salerno Soldiers join Chicago 5K "Got Freedom Run."  TF Bastogne uncase colors in Nangarhar prov.  A story worth copying and keeping:  Development in RC-E, keys to success.

Iraq:  Virginia's "Bedford Boys" carry history into deployment.  USACE completes first of 9 new schools in Anbar prov.  Officers get marksmanship training at COB Marez.  Villagers receive food, shoes, clothes near COB Taji.  Suspected JAM terrorist arrested in Baghdad.

Joanna

___________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

TF Iron Gray Visits Laghman Province school 

Story and photos by Army Staff Sgt. Gary Witte

LAGHMAN PROVINCE - An Afghan youth attempts to sell a tame bird to Army Sgt. Nathan Starr, a team leader with 2nd Plt, Co B, 1st Bn, 102nd Inf Regt, TF Iron Gray, during a visit to Meya Abdul Karim School, May 18.  School officials discussed security, local concerns and their interaction with the Afghan govt during the visit with ANA and ISAF. The campus, which houses a girl's school and a boy's school, provides education to an estimated 3,000 students, ranging from primary level to high school. 

An ANA Soldier provides security with Army Staff Sgt. Michael MacDonald, a squad leader with 2nd Plt.

-30-

CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Soldiers join Chicago 5K "Got Freedom Run"

Story and photos by Army Pfc. Christopher McKenna

Maj. Toby Logsdon, 3rd BCT, 101st Abn Div, logistical officer-in-charge, runs with fellow Soldiers from his section during the Afghanistan version of the “Got Freedom Run,” May 30. The run occurred simultaneously with the main event in Chicago. “Team Salute” sponsored the Afghanistan portion of the 5K Memorial Day celebration run. 

FOB SALERNO – “When I saw the brochure outside a park district class my son was taking, I said, ‘that's it, you're going to run for the Veterans,’” said Bridget Piagari, a relative of one of the runners, and the lead coordinator.  “My father was in the Navy, my brother was in the Marines, and we had many friends who served in all the different branches of the military.  Most importantly, it was for my cousin Toby, who's currently serving in the Army and deployed to Afghanistan.”

In a showing of mutual support for Piagari and other veterans, Maj. Toby Logsdon organized a version of the run at the same time as the run in Chicago.  “She was doing the run in Chicago to raise awareness for wounded military personnel and their families,” said Logsdon.

“As all the announcements were being made before the race started, they mentioned how much I raised, and who I was running for,” Piagari said. “Thousands of people all heard that I had a cousin in Afghanistan, and that he was running alongside me from there.”

The org. also sent the run’s official T-shirts at no cost to the Soldiers running, Logsdon said.  While participation was limited to only 5 people in Afghanistan, everything went off without a hitch. The Soldiers’ efforts didn’t go unnoticed on either end.

“It was important for me to make sure that I did well for my cousin.  I wanted to make him proud of me.  I knew he was proud the second I heard that he had not only run the race, but had gotten other soldiers from his unit to do it, too,” Piagari said. “This just reaffirms to me that our soldiers are the bravest people on the planet, and we need to do more for them.”

For more info on “Team Salute” and ways to assist their efforts, visit www.saluteinc.org.

Maj. Logsdon runs toward the finish line with Chief Warrant Officer Curtis Steineke, a 3rd BCT logistical officer. 

Maj. Logsdon stands in the middle of the group of Soldiers who completed the “Got Freedom Run.”

-30-

CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

TF Bastogne uncase colors in Nangarhar Province

Story and photos by Army Spc. Richard Daniels Jr.

The 4th BCT, 4th ID held a transfer of authority ceremony at FOB Fenty, June 1.  The ceremony included the uncasing of the bde’s colors by Col. Andrew Poppas and Command Sgt. Maj. Kevin Benson, symbolizing the arrival and readiness of the 1st BCT, 101st AD, of Fort Campbell, Ky., and the commencement of their responsibility in TF Mountain Warrior’s former area of ops.

NANGAHAR PROVINCE – The cmdr of TF Bastogne, Army Col. Andrew Poppas, relieved Col. Randy George, cmdr of 4th BCT, 4th ID, TF Mountain Warrior, from Fort Carson, Colo., of the Nangarhar, Nuristan, Kunar and Laghman Provs. in eastern Afghanistan.

Provincial govs, local national media, ANA leaders and the Combined Joint TF-82 Cmdr, Maj. Gen. Curtis Scaparrotti, attended the ceremony.

“I promise you the same dedication, devotion and professionalism from TF Bastogne, as we're committed to support you in your progress toward a safe and prosperous Afghanistan,” said Poppas. “Thank you for giving me the opportunity to stand by your side.  Colonel George, thank you for giving me the opportunity to command everything in your area.  Bastogne, air assault, all the way.” 

-30-

CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Development in RC-East: Keys to Success

Written by Army Sgt. Spencer Case

 

PARWAN PROVINCE (31 May 2010) – Operation Enduring Freedom won’t be won with bullets and bombs alone.  While combat ops rage on, a quieter narrative unfolds in the background.  It’s the story of new schools, new opportunities and new challenges. 

Those who understand it, like Army Maj. Bryce Jones, a Reserve civil affairs officer with the 405th CAB, say it’s critical for winning the war. “We want to get the populous to say ‘you know what—we don’t need Taliban anymore because CF are making our lives better,’” said Jones, who spent 8 months helping to implement U.S.-funded development projects in Panjshir prov.

Development is particularly important in RC-East, one of 5 regional joint TF command territories.  This territory, the battle space of Combined Joint TF-82, is roughly the size of Mississippi.  It contains 14 of the country’s 34 provs surrounding the capital, Kabul, and about 9.9 million people, who make up roughly a third of the country’s population.

Dawn Liberi, the civilian counterpart of Army Maj. Gen. Curtis Scaparrotti, the cmdr of CJTF-82, said 41 of the 81 regional development zones selected by the GoA for special attention are found within RC-East.

Capacity Building:  The old saying, “Catch a man a fish, feed him for a day; teach a man how to fish, feed him for a lifetime,” captures much of the essence of the buzzword, Capacity Building. “Capacity Building is really enabling—Afghans in this case—to essentially do the tasks that they need to do in order to make their country work, to make it run,” Liberi said.  For example, one civilian from the Dept of Agriculture began hosting weekly demos to show Afghans how to farm better.  Fifty Afghans arrived to the 1st demo, 150 to the 2nd, and 800 people to the 3rd.

Unified Action:  How is it that diverse civilian entities and the military are able to function together coherently in the same battle space?  Unified Action is the answer.  “First and foremost it’s enabling all of the civilian agencies under the U.S. govt to essentially work together in a chain of command, if you will, under chief of mission authority, which comes from the ambassador,” Liberi said. “So instead of having separate agencies doing different things on their own, Unified Action enables there to be one structure and one unified chain, which didn’t exist before.  The second thing that it does is enables the civilians at each level to be counterparts to the military.”

Army Maj. Gary Kramlich, an op analyst with CJTF-82, explained why Unified Action matters. “Unified Action is putting the right people in the right place with the right skills,” Kramlich said. “The military’s very good with org.  We have the equipment to sustain ourselves in any environment, but we’re not necessarily the best qualified to teach mayors how to be mayors, or farmers how to be farmers.  However, people from Dept of State, Dept of Agriculture, USAID, are.”

Combined Action:  It's the integration of ISAF and the Afghan troops into a single team.  While Combined Action is usually talked about in reference to combat ops, Kramlich said there's “no doubt” about its being important to development as well.

“The U.S. military and NATO mission has incredible capacity, but we struggle when and comes to understanding the culture, the language, and that’s why our Combined Action with the ANSF is building the right solution. They understand the people, the tribal dynamics, the sensitivities that we may inadvertently make worse.”

PRTs:  Provincial Reconstruction Teams in RC-East organize and implement a wide range of projects, using at least 80% local labor. These projects focus on such different things as education, rule of law, health and sanitation, and transportation. The Parwan PRT is involved in constructing a 26-room high school, and a 16-classroom girls school.  The Panjshir PRT used local labor to complete about 25 miles of a road that will eventually connect Kabul to China, via Badakhshan prov., the panhandle of eastern Afghanistan. There're currently 27 PRTs operating in Afghanistan. Of these, 14 are in RC-East.

ADTs:  Agribusiness Development Teams function similar to PRTs, but are more focused on projects that deal with agriculture. They regularly engage in building greenhouses, conducting quality control on local slaughterhouses and planting trees.

According to the Army’s handbook for ADTs, the ADT originated in 2007, when Secretary of the Army, Pete Geren, Dir. of the Army NG; Lt. Gen. Clyde Vaughn, and civilian and military leaders in the state of Missouri, developed the idea to deploy troops with expertise in agriculture.  The 2007 brainstorm resulted in the creation of the Missouri NG’s 935th ADT.  Several other states followed suit, including Texas, Neb., Ill., Tenn. and Kentucky.  RC-East contains 8 of the 9 ADTs in Afghanistan. Speaking of these, Scaparrotti said, “They’re worth their weight in gold.”

DSTs:  District Support Teams are similar to PRTs, but they operate at a more local level of govt. (For a rough analogy with the U.S., think of provs. as states and districts as counties.)  DSTs were formed largely to keep PRTs from being stretched too thin over large amounts of territory, Kramlich explained.

DSTs, company-sized elements with mixed military and civilian members, are excellent exemplars of Unified Action.  Ideally, each DST would contain 3 civilians, 1 from USAID, 1 from the Dept of Agriculture, and 1 from the Dept of State.  The civilians in DSTs stay at district centers for 12 to 18 months in order to establish long-term relationships with district-level officials.

Both Liberi and Scaparrotti mentioned DSTs as important components to the development success CJTF-82 has found over the course of the last year.  CJTF-82 began their deployment at a time when no DSTs were operating in RC-East. “We now have 19 District Support Teams in RC-East, and it will go up to 23 very shortly,” Liberi said during a May 11 interview.  This represents more than half of the DSTs in Afghanistan.

“Under the Taliban there were 700,000 kids in school; now there're 7.2 million.  A lot of that is because of programs we’ve enabled the ministry of education to develop,” Liberi said. “As a result of programs with the Ministry of Health, 80% of Afghans have access to healthcare where they didn’t before.  So these are the kinds of programs that have made a difference in people’s lives.”

Kramlich said the improvements in basic services translate into greater trust in GIRoA. “We find that if it’s a PRT that’s doing it, an ADT, or whether it’s us doing it through CERP funds, whether it’s a non-governmental agency providing those services, they still see it as the GoA providing the services to them, and that’s the part that keeps them looking to GoA as the best alternative to the Taliban,” Kramlich said.

-30-

CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Parwan PRT’s USDA representative inspects milk collection center

Photo by AF Senior Airman Jim Araos

BAGRAM AIRFIELD – Navy Info Systems Tech 2nd Class Mark Smithwick, Parwan PRT, and Bill O’Donnell, TF Wolverine, U.S. Dept of Agriculture advisor, inspect a milk collection center in Jabal-E-Saraj, Parwan prov. The team assessed the milk collection center’s equipment for repairs, and also conducted site assessments to determine if other milk collection centers can be set up around the prov. 

 -30-

 

IRAQI STORIES:

Blackanthem Military News

Virginia's 'Bedford Boys' carry history into deployment

Story and photos by 2nd Lt. Angela Fry

Virginia Army NG with A Co, 1st Bn, 116th Inf Regt out of Bedford, Va., 256th IBCT, 13th ESC load mags for their M-4 rifles Feb. 1, during an advanced marksmanship exercise at Camp Shelby, Miss., during mobilization training for their deployment.

COB ADDER - More than 65 years after A Co, 1st Bn, 116th Inf Regt left its indelible mark on history in Normandy, its Soldiers deployed in support of OIF.  To history buffs, A Co. is referred to as the "Bedford Boys" because of the Virginia NG unit's sacrifices on the beaches of Normandy with the 29th Inf Regt.

"The history of this company goes back to February 1941, when it was called into federal service as part of the 29th Inf Regt," said 1st Sgt. Kevin Stewart.  "However, it was the morning of June 6, 1944, as part of the Allied invasion that the unit first saw action."

Stewart, a Veteran of OEF, and former active component Soldier, told the story of the 30 Bedford, Va., Soldiers who were the first inf to hit the beaches of Normandy.  On that one day, more than 2,500 U.S. service members lost their lives, he said.

"Bedford is claimed to have lost more men per capita on D-Day than any other town in the country," Stewart said. "To honor the memories of these men, Congress placed the National D-Day Memorial in Bedford."

"It's truly an honor to serve in this unit," said Capt. Miguel Lickliter, cmdr of A Co. and a Bedford, Va., native. "The Soldiers who came before us showed all of us the values of self-sacrifice, loyalty and duty. Their commitment to the mission and each other serves as a shining example for all Soldiers to emulate." 

Lickliter said his Soldiers take the sacrifices of the unit's past Soldiers seriously. "We're proud of our history, and we remain dedicated and steadfast to honor our past brothers-in-arms," he said. "It gives us a lot of pride to be able to fly our colors as we serve our country."

Virginia Army NG pose outside their armory in Bedford, Va., Jan. 5 before departing for Camp Shelby, Miss., for their deployment with the Louisiana Army NG's 256th IBCT, 13th ESC. (Photo provided by Tom Graves, Jr., of Central Virginia Images Photography)

Virginia Army NG Soldiers receive a convoy brief April 3 before departing on a convoy escort mission in support of the upcoming responsibilities of U.S. troops and equipment from Iraq.

 

-30-

USF-I

USACE completes first of 9 new schools in Anbar province

Story and photo by Michael Scheck

The new Farabi School in Haditha was recently turned over to the Haditha City Education Dept, the first of 9 planed for completion by the USACE, Gulf Region District. The Iraqi education dept was so pleased with the structure that it's been designated for use as a Teacher’s Academy, where Iraq’s next generation of teachers will train.

AL ANBAR - "Al Farabi School meets Haditha's desperate need for a suitable learning facility, as the existing school building was structurally unsound and much too small to handle its current enrollment,"  said Maj. Joseph Geary, officer-in-charge of the Gulf Region District, Al Anbar Resident Office.  

Site plans for the school included the construction of a 12-classroom 2-story schoolhouse, administration building, playground and guardhouse. Geary says the school was a "turn-key" project that included all the required school supplies and administrative equipment to ensure immediate occupancy.

Geary gives credit for the success of the project to his engineer staff and its commitment to building Iraq's technical capacity. "Project Engr Bob Player worked closely with engr Mohammad Maulood, and quality assurance rep Natheer Hamid, who spent countless hours at the site to ensure a quality product would be delivered," Geary said. "In addition to their technical expertise, the Iraqi engrs' ability to liaise directly with the local education dept reps made the project handover quick and simple."

-30-

USF-I

Iraqi officers get marksmanship training

Story and photo by Spc. Dustin Gautney

Maj. Stephen Bert, Stability and Transition Team, 2nd HBCT, 3rd ID, teaches an IA officer proper kneeling techniques for firing the M-16 rifle during marksmanship training for IA officer instructors at IA base Al-Kisik, May 23, 2010. With this training, the Iraqi officers will now instruct their NCOs, who, in turn, will instruct the Soldiers within their ranks. 

COB MAREZ –  "During the first day we teach the Iraqi instructors familiarity with the M-16 rifle, covering the shooting positions used in the IA rifle qualifications," said Maj. Stephen Bert, STT, 2nd HBCT, and the officer-in-charge of the class. "On the 2nd and 3rd day, we covered zeroing techniques, and how to identify problems the instructors might come across while training their units. Finally, the instructors learned how to plan a range themselves."

"Often the IA Soldiers were taught more 'shoot from the hip' techniques with the AK-47 rifle,” he said.  “However, with the M-16 rifle that's not possible, and more marksmanship trainers were needed throughout the IA."

-30-

USF

Villagers receive food, shoes, clothes

Story and photo by Sgt. Michael Carden

Sgt. Chelsie Kirkland, an intel analyst with Regimental Troop Sqdrn, 278th ACR, 13th ESC, passes out donated shoes to an Iraqi boy during a humanitarian and intel gathering mission in Taji, May 25, 2010. 

COB TAJI — U.S. Soldiers here recently conducted a 2-dimensional op; handing out food and clothing to local residents near this base, while also gathering info about area security.  The op was organized and overseen by Master Sgt. Melvin Brown, an IA liaison with Regimental Troop Sqdrn.

"We got to talk to some of the villagers about how they felt about security, in and around the area, and to see if there're any direct threats, to try to learn things that support our intel mission," said Kirkland.  She also stressed the importance of humanitarian missions like this, as they increase the likelihood that the populace would be more forthcoming with info in the future.

Hundreds of donated shoes and clothing items were sent to the U.S. Soldiers from orgs. in the U.S., while some Soldiers spent their own money to purchase school supplies.  Pallets of nonperishable canned and dry goods were donated as well.

The village of Taji, which is located adjacent to COB Taji, is home to about 3,000 people.
While such missions surely help the Iraqis, they're also positive for the U.S. Soldiers as well. The Soldiers with RTS, 278th ACR volunteered to be a part of the mission, because they believed in its necessity and what it would accomplish; easing the hardship of poverty and improving the relationship between Iraqis and U.S. forces, Kirkland said.

-30-

USF-I

ISF arrest a suspected JAM terrorist in Baghdad

BAGHDAD - ISF arrested a suspected Jaysh al-Mahdi (JAM) member during a joint security op conducted in south Baghdad, June 3.  ISF and U.S. advisors searched a building for a suspected JAM member who allegedly conducted numerous attacks against ISF and CF, including the assassination of an Iraqi soldier.  He's also believed to be responsible for several indirect fire attacks against JSS Zafariniyah, and FOB Rustamiyah, and is involved in weapons trafficking.

-30-

flickr

Presence Approved

(Army photo by Staff Sgt. Adelita Mead)

 

Iraqi children run to greet U.S. Soldiers assigned to 3rd Plt, Delta Co, 1-68 Armor "Silver Lions" as their convoy rolls through a neighborhood in Basrah prov., May 20, 2010. The U.S. Soldiers advise and assist IA Soldiers of the 52nd Bde, 3rd Bn, during frequent patrols through the area. 

-30-

Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/6-05

Dear Interested Reader,

Conn. NG training with ANA NCOs at FOB Mehtar Lam.  Renovated NCO Academy opens on FOB Thunder.  Laghman PRT visits the village of Kusuk.  Paktika PRT helps provide construction skills.

Iraq:  Humanitarian aid drop in Kirkuk.  Basrah foot patrol with 17th Fires Bde.  JSS Istiqlal transfer gives ISF options.  Suspected KH criminal assocs. arrested in Baghdad.  Suspected AQI member and assocs. arrested near Tikrit.

Joanna

_____________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Conn. NG Training with ANA NCOs

Story and photos by Army Staff Sgt. Gary Witte

LAGHMAN PROVINCE -  Army 1st Lt. Nicholas Raphael, the plt leader for Scout Plt, HHC, 1st Bn, 102nd ID, jokes with an ANA Soldier at a firing range on FOB Mehtar Lam, May 16.  The Connecticut NG unit conducts missions and weekly training with the ANA unit.  The ISAF training is run for the ANA NCOs so they can teach the classes to their own men. 

ANA Capt Noor Mohammad, cmdr of Weapons Coy, examines the results of his men's marksmanship practice with Army Sgt. Brooke Guetti, a team leader with Scout Plt.

 

 

Army Spc. Dennis Ryder, a rifleman with Scout Plt, runs the marksmanship class.

 

 -30-

CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

ANA’s 203rd Corps opens renovated NCO Academy

Story and photos by Army Sgt. Andrew Reagan 

 

ANA Soldiers await the start of the opening ceremony for the 203rd Corps’ renovated NCO academy on FOB Thunder, May 23. The renovated academy features improved classrooms, with new desks and chairs, as well as upgraded living quarters with new mattresses and bed frames. The refurbished academy is an example of the steps the 203rd Corps is taking to expand the scope of its NCO program. 

PAKTYA PROVINCE – The NCO academy consists of 2 courses:  a team leader course where privates train to be sgts, and an NCO battle course where existing NCOs learn advanced tactical and leadership skills, to prepare them to lead squad and plt-sized elements, said Army Lt. Col. Gary Smith, a training officer with the Indiana NG’s Regional Corps Training Team 2, and a partner to the 203rd Corps on FOB Thunder.

“This academy will provide a bright future for the Soldiers of our Army, and it's our hope that they will take the skills they learn here back to their units, and pass them on to their Soldiers,” said ANA Brig. Gen. Akbar, dep. cmdr. 

The NCO academy was once mixed in with other classrooms and barracks, which distracted the Soldiers from their training, made accountability difficult and limited the number of Soldiers who could attend the 2 courses. Not only does the new stand-alone academy increase the capacity of the team leader and battle NCO courses, it provides improved living conditions and a better learning environment for the attendees, added Smith.

“We felt a newer, nicer facility would allow us to train a lot more Soldiers, and those Soldiers would also go back out into the Corps and say, ‘Hey, this isn’t a bad place; we’re not treated badly here,’” said Smith. “We want to not only give good training, but also improve the quality of life for the Soldiers.”

The renovated academy will be used on an interim basis, as construction is scheduled to begin in Sept. on a new NCO academy with at least 3 classrooms, living quarters for up to 350 Soldiers, a gym and a worship room, said Smith.

The 203rd Corps recently added 2 live-fire ranges to its training grounds and developed a “shoot house” specifically for the NCO academy, so the Soldiers can practice room entry and clearing techniques.  Smith also said the 203rd Corps is planning to open a basic training facility on FOB Thunder, by March 2012.

“We now have increased capacity to train our Soldiers.  This builds morale and will lead to a better future for us,” said ANA Col. Asif, the 203rd Corps training kandak cmdr. “We've good ranges here, and we'll continue to train our Soldiers to standard on several weapon systems.”

“The way ahead for the future is that Thunder will become a very important training center for RC-East, which will improve the capacity and capability of the 203rd Corps and the ANA,” added Smith.

ANA Brig. Gen. Akbar surveys his troops during the opening ceremony.

Brig. Gen. Akbar addresses a formation of ANA Soldiers.

-30-

CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Laghman PRT visits the village of Kusuk

Story and photos by Army Staff Sgt. Gary Witte 

LAGHMAN PROVINCE -  Pfc. Brian Rhodes, a rifleman with Co B, 1st Bn, 102nd Inf Regt, TF Iron Gray, watches for trouble during a patrol to visit the village of Kusuk, May 24. The ANA and ISAF mission allowed Civil Affairs Soldiers with the Laghman PRT to visit with villagers and discuss the need for residents to support and participate in the Afghan govt. 

 

Sgt. Brandon Shenas, a team leader with Co B, uses his rifle scope to check the area. 

Army Soldiers move through the mountains on a patrol to Kusuk village.

 

Spc. Mohammed Sobhiye, a civil affairs specialist with Laghman PRT, TF Iron Gray, meets with the leaders of Kusuk village.

The malik, or leader, of Kusuk village meets with civil affairs Soldiers.

U.S. Army Soldiers return from a patrol to Kusuk village. 

-30-

CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Paktika PRT helps provide construction skills 

Written by AF 2nd Lt. Mark Lazane 

Gov. Samim addresses the audience at the 1st-ever vertical skills development workshop held at the Orgun Center for Educational Excellence near FOB Orgun, May 23. The Paktika PRT-funded program provides participants with 3 months of hands-on construction skills training in fields such as carpentry, plumbing and electrical.  Samim’s attendance marked the 1st time a provincial gov. had attended the ceremony.  Graduates of the program qualify to accept employment locally with contractors who are rebuilding the prov. (Photos by AF Master Sgt. Demetrius Lester)

PAKTIKA PROVINCE -- Along with a certificate of completion, which helps students secure employment, the graduates were able to keep safety equipment and tools provided to them at the start of the program. The vertical skills workshop helps fill a chronic and acute inadequacy of skilled laborers and construction supervisors for Paktika prov., said Aziz Massoud, the training dir. for the workshop.

“I heard one man say that 32 people graduated today, but that isn’t right,” said Gov. Samim.  “In reality, 32 families graduated today, as these students now have the skills to help provide for their families through capable employment.”

Future training classes are scheduled to continue at the facility.  Eventually, the plan is to have 2 GoA-funded, permanent construction trade schools operating in the prov. -- one in Orgun and the other in Sharana, the provincial capital, said Massoud.

“I know I still need to learn and grow a lot, but this class was a good start to life,” said one student of the program following the event.  “Hopefully this class gets me a good job to care for my family and help rebuild this country.”

Teachers and students listen intently as Gov. Samim addresses the graduates. 

-30-

IRAQI STORIES:

Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq

Humanitarian Aid Drop 

Photos by Spc. Joel Lemaistre

KIRKUK - A group of Iraqi children pose for a picture during a Humanitarian Aid mission in Kirkuk,  May 13.  Soldiers from HHC, 1st Bn, 30th Inf Regt, 2nd Bde, 3rd ID were delivering food, water, toys, and school supplies to over 900 people.   

Army 1st Lt. Toby Kearney, Plt Leader for Mortar Plt, HHC, is interviewed by members of the Pan-Arab media at an Emergency Service Unit compound in Kirkuk.  Kearney and his unit were assisting members of the ESU, a div. of IP, in handing out humanitarian aid.  

1st Lt. Kearney hands out "D.C. United" soccer memorabilia, after a friendly soccer match with the ESU in their compound in Kirkuk, May 13, and than HHC 1-30 followed up the game by helping the ESU hand out humanitarian aid.  

1st Lt. Kearney and members of the ESU pose for a picture, after a friendly soccer game.

A U.S. Soldier wears the "Kirkuk Lion" costume during a Humanitarian Aid mission.  The Lion is a symbol of Kirkuk. 

-30-

Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq 

Basrah Foot Patrol with 17th Fires Bde

Photos by Spc. Samantha Ciaramitaro

COB BASRAH - Army Sgt. Derek Hahn with 341st Tactical Psychological Ops Co, 17th Fires Bde greets a local Iraqi during a joint foot patrol through Al Qurnah, May 13. The joint patrol was conducted to gain insight on the locals perceptions of the recent car bombings in the Basra prov., the 2nd largest city in Iraq. 

A local Iraqi man who survived a 2008 car bombing talks with U.S. and Iraqi forces.

     

Sgt. Hahn is invited to sit with local Sheiks. 

Sgt. Hahn is happily welcomed by local Sheiks. 

Sgt. Hahn gathers info on the security within the district of Al Qurnah.

-30-

United States Forces-Iraq

JSS Istiqlal transfer gives Iraqi Security Forces options

BAGHDAD – JSS Istiqlal was transferred to the GoI, May 28 in a ceremony conducted at the base.  The base now provides the ISF another node from which to conduct their missions.

“Most of all, today’s ceremony represents the confidence in the IFP and the IA’s capability to secure its area of ops independently,” said Lt. Col. Jeffrey Denius, cmdr of 3rd Bn., 69th AR Regt., the key speaker for the event.

“These formations are strong, proud, and capable units.  The infrastructure here at JSS Istiqlal will provide the necessary support for continued security efforts,” said Denius.

“Currently we're moved out of all the buildings, allowing the ISF enough room to establish their own HQ and facilities. The 11th Motorized Transportation Regt that will be moving in here is the equivalent of our support bde,” said Capt. Melvin Lowe, cmdr, A Co., 3rd Bn., 69th AR. Regt.

“It’s a great feeling to be able to hand over a base to the ISF,” said Lowe. “This is my 3rd tour in Iraq, and I’ve seen the ISF from its inception until now.  It’s overwhelming to me how far Iraq and the ISF have come, and that we're ready to hand it over to them.”

Although the move may be bittersweet for the Soldiers of A Co., the passing of the reins to the ISF is not only wanted, but also needed for the stabilization of Iraq. “We're proud to have trained and operated beside our 11th IA Div brethren and 1st FP Div., and look forward to continuing our partnership over the coming months,” said Denius.

-30-

USF-I

ISF arrests suspected Khata’ib Hezbollah criminal associates

BAGHDAD – ISF arrested 3 suspected Khata’ib Hezbollah (KH) criminal assocs during a joint security op, conducted in east Baghdad, May 30.  ISF and U.S. advisors searched several buildings for a suspected KH member who is allegedly responsible for the facilitation of weapons transportation to locations in central Iraq.  Info and evidence gathered at the scene led Iraqi forces to identify and arrest 3 criminal assocs of the warranted KH. 

-30-

USF-I

Suspected AQI member, three criminal associates arrested

BAGHDAD - ISF arrested a suspected AQI member and 3 criminal assocs during a joint security op conducted approx 20kms south of Tikrit, June 1.  ISF and U.S. advisors searched a building for the suspected AQI member, allegedly involved in the facilitation of VBIEDs. 

-30-

Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/6-04

Dear Interested Reader,

KCC graduates young men trained to rebuild Afghanistan.  Kentucky ADT helps Parwan prov. go green.  Soldiers check area for weapons caches in Laghman prov.  Panjshir ETT trains police in mountain rescue.

Iraq:  Badaush Prison assessment near Mosul.  Security and economic issues discussed in Az Zubayr.  IP and Kurdish police train together.  Suspected AQI member arrested near Mahmudiyah.

Joanna

____________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

KCC graduates young men trained to rebuild Afghanistan

Story and photos by Senior Airman Nathan Lipscomb

 

Gov. Fazlullah Wahidi is greeted by students of the Kunar Construction Center during his arrival at the KCC’s 7th graduation ceremony in the Shingal District, May 25.  More than 100 young men graduated as skilled laborers in masonry, rebar-bending, carpentry, plumbing, electrical wiring and painting. 

KUNAR PROVINCE - Among those in attendance were Ted Wittenberger, U.S. Agency for Int'l Development (USAID) rep for Kunar prov.; most of the Kunar district sub-govs; area tribal elders and Kunar PRT members. As Wittenberger addressed the crowd of more than 300, he praised the teachers and administration of the school for their work in training those who would one day rebuild Afghanistan after decades of war.

“The demand for skilled workers to rebuild Afghanistan is high,” said Wittenberger. “I really believe this school can make a difference.”  The school has trained more than 800 students since its opening in March 2008, and touts a graduation rate of more than 90%.

“The KCC is making better programs for our kids, our youth, and for that I’m very happy,” said Haji Hassan, Kunar provincial council chair.  “We've a lot of people trying to make Afghanistan better, and stand on its own feet, but there are people who are also trying to destroy our hard work.  We all have a responsibility to make this country better.”

Following the remarks of Hassan, Wahidi spoke of the need for jobs in the private sector, and how the school has helped to create them. “I’m once again glad to see the results of the KCC,” Wahidi said. 

After the speeches were complete, the top 3% of each trade were called to receive their diplomas.  After the graduation, students attended a job fair, where they met with contractors looking to hire skilled laborers.

The KCC is an USAID implemented project, to assist the GoA to extend its reach into unstable areas and engage at-risk populations; create an environment that encourages local communities to take an active role in their own stability and development, while addressing the underlying causes of instability and support for the insurgency.

(From left) Ted Wittenberger, Fazlullah Wahidi, and Haji Hassan, look at photographs of the students studying at the Kunar Construction Center. 

 

 

A member of the graduating class takes photos of the ceremony with his phone.

 

 

A student graduating shouts, “I'm here to help my country,” after receiving his diploma.

-30-

CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Kentucky ADT helps Charikar Go Green

Story and photos by Army Sgt. John Young

 

 

Kentucky ADT chief, Army Lt. Col Toby Peterson, presents a letter of completion to the head of construction for Brotharna Tawfiq Construction Co., May 26.  They were there as guests of Shah Amiri, the Dir. of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock (DAIL), for the ribbon cutting ceremony for 2 new greenhouses in the town of Charikar.  Amiri plans to use the greenhouses as a training area to teach about water mgt., and how to extend the growing season. 

PARWAN PROVINCE – “It took less than 2 weeks to set these up,” said Army Lt. Col. Toby Peterson, the ADT chief. “We plan on putting up more of these in different places.”  They plan on using the new greenhouses as a training platform for many different aspects of agribusiness developments in the future.

Along with the agricultural benefits, they see other opportunities for training in irrigation and soil management. “You notice they both have a drip irrigation system,” said Peterson. “This  system starts teaching the Afghans about proper water mgt. They already have a good base knowledge on it; we're going to let the DAIL run with it, and be there to provide technical support as needed."

This project should lead the people of Charikar and the surrounding areas toward better use of resources, and advance their ability to grow crops for their people.  It's one of many projects the Afghan Govt and the ADT initiated in the Prov. of Parwan, and one they hope will bring education and bountiful crops for a very long time.

 

Kentucky ADT chief, Army Lt. Col. Ruth Graves, cuts the ribbon on 2 new greenhouses. 

 

Graves gets a tour of a just-completed greenhouse from Shah Amiri.

-30-

CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Afghan Soldiers check area for weapon caches

Story and photos by Army Staff Sgt. Gary Witte

LAGHMAN PROVINCE – ANA Soldiers check a house in the Tabay Kunj area, May 21. The village is a seasonal one, with members of the Kuchi tribe having gone to grazing land in the south.  ANA, supported by ISAF, searched the area to ensure insurgents were not using the houses to store weapons caches. 

ANA Soldiers and Army Soldiers with 1st Bn, 102nd Inf Regt, TF Iron Gray, move through a village. 

From left, Army Staff Sgt. John Julian, a squad leader, and Sgt. 1st Class Christopher Mike, the plt sgt, with Scout Plt, HHC, 1st Bn, destroy a reinforced cave position above a village. 

-30-

CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Panjshir ETT Trains Police in Mountain Rescue

Story and photos by Army Sgt. John Young

 

PANJSHIR PROVINCE – Members of the ANP demonstrate their mountain rescue skills, May 16.   Army Sgt. 1st class Stephen Jennings, an infantryman assigned to the 86th IBCT overlooks a z-pulley system used to raise and lower a Scedco rescue stretcher.  Jennings is a mountain school instructor in Vermont, and is teaching the police this skill because of the varied mountainous terrains in Panjshir. 

The 86th IBCT, based out of Vermont, has an embedded tactical training team (ETT) working with the police to help train them in mountain rescue skills. 

-30-

IRAQI STORIES:

Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq

Badaush Prison Assessment 

(Photos by Spc. Jillian Munyon)

Army Sgt. Willian Weisenberger, 114th MP, 3-17th Military Bn, 49th Military Bde, rides on a bus to a section of the Badoush prison near Mosul, May 3.  The 114th MP Co is supporting a meeting between U.S. Soldiers and Gen. Qadaer, who is in charge of the prison. 

Painted canvases are displayed in the art studio at the Badaush prison.  The detainees have the opportunity to paint during their free time. 

Navy Lt. Cmdr. Shane Cooper and Staff Sgt. Elmar Williams, who is attached to the 114th MP, talk about improvements that can be made within the Badaush prison.  They are collaborating ideas in an effort to make the prison run as efficiently as possible. 

-30-

Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq

Security and Economic Issues Discussed in Az Zubayr

(Photos by Staff Sgt. Adelita Mead)

Iraqi men work on water pumps and generators outside a small shop in Az Zubayr, May 12. Soldiers of the 341st Tactical Psychological Ops Co, attached to the 17th Fires Bde, were in the area to discuss security and economic issues with the Iraqis.  

Soldiers speak to local citizens in Az Zubayr, while an Iraqi Soldier provides added security. 

Army Staff Sgt. Samuel Ward, team leader with the Guardians Maneuver Element, 17th Fires Bde, keeps an eye on the growing crowd around Soldiers of the 341st, as they speak with local citizens.  Ward and his team provide security along with IA soldiers.  

-30-

USF-I

Iraqi Arab and Kurdish Police Train Together

BAGHDAD - NATO Training Mission-Iraq held a graduation ceremony for 43 Kurdish Zerevani policemen and hundreds of their Iraqi Arab counterparts, who completed joint federal police training at Camp Dublin, May 27. 

This is the 3rd time Arabs and Kurds have participated in this training together, in a clear effort to break down cultural and ethnic barriers, said Col. Isidori, Cmdr of the NTM-I Gendarmerie Training Div., and officer-in-charge of the training.

This intensive 9-week police training course, instructed by the Italian Carabinieri from NTM-I, is designed to provide advanced training for the IFP.  Topics covered included operational planning, police intel, and counter-insurgency skills.  Ethics and human rights were emphasized throughout the course.

Iraq Minister of Interior, Jawad Al-Bolani, expressed his satisfaction with the hard work the IFP are doing on the front line against terrorism and criminality, in his speech to the assembled graduates and trainers. He also thanked NATO and the Carabinieri for their outstanding support.

Italian Ambassador, Maurizio Melani also recognized the IP's achievements during the course.  "The IFP are now a force -- efficient, respected and trusted by the Iraqi people," he said.

Lt. Gen. Michael Barbero, USF-Iraq Dep. Comm. Gen. (Advising and Training) and NTM-I Comm. Gen., thanked Bolani for the contributions of his police forces in disrupting the terrorist network in Iraq. "The IFP are among the most professional, competent and respected orgs in Iraq," he said.

-30-

USF-I

ISF arrests suspected AQI member near Mahmudiyah

BAGHDAD - ISF arrested a suspected AQI member during a joint security op conducted approx 19kms south of Baghdad, May 30.  ISF and U.S. advisors searched a building for the suspected AQI member, who allegedly has close ties to senior AQI leadership.

Info and evidence gathered at the scene led Iraqi forces to identify and arrest the warranted AQI member.

-30-

Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/6-03

Dear Interested Reader,

Ghazni PRT and Texas ADT women visit Dept of Women's Affairs.  FOB Sharana remembers fallen warriors.  World Trade Center I-beam unveiled at Bagram.  Medical clinic set up in Zormat district.

Iraq:  Team Lumber Jack work with Iraqi Border Guards.  Charlie Co. honored at Mosul school opening.  Fallen Soldiers honored during fitness center dedication.  First of 15 patrol boats delivered for Iraqi Navy training.  Suspected AQI member and criminal assoc. arrested near Baghdad.

Joanna

__________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Ghazni PRT and Texas ADT women visit Dept of Women’s Affairs

Story and photos by AF 2nd Lt. Katherine Roling

 

GHAZNI PROVINCE – (Left to right), Navy Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Leigh-Ashley Proctor, Kasha Pierun, a Polish doctor, and U.S. Army Sgt. Danielle Pellechio, a civil affairs member, help separate hygienic products into individual bags at the Dept of Women’s Affairs, in Ghazni city, May 25.  All 3 women are part of the Ghazni PRT. Polish and U.S. members from the Ghazni PRT, U.S. Agency for Int'l Development and the Texas ADT visited to see the progress of the women’s tailoring project, and to discuss further projects to empower women. 

Afghan women at the Dept of Women’s Affairs create hospital clothes, and school uniforms for students in 1st to 3rd grade.  The tailoring project, provides paying jobs for 400 women and 100 men in Ghazni city for 4 months, and the clothes are donated to the schools and hospitals. 

Shokrieh Vali, Dir. of Women’s Affairs in Ghazni City, speaks with U.S. Navy Lt. Cmdr. Zaradhe Yach, Ghazni PRT senior medical officer.  They met to discuss the proposal for the midwife training program. 

-30-

CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

FOB Sharana remembers fallen warriors

Story and photos by AF Master Sgt. Demetrius Lester 

 

PAKTIKA PROVINCE – A firing party made up of soldiers, sailors and airmen perform a 21-gun salute in honor of the fallen during a Memorial Day ceremony held at FOB Sharana, May 30. The ceremony included the lowering of the flag, the playing of taps, and a prayer by the base chaplain. 

 

Army Staff Sgt. John Cardona lowers the U.S. flag to half-staff, while Petty Officer 2nd Class Juan Alicea renders a salute.  Both are members of the Paktika PRT, a joint team assigned to help promote governance, development and agriculture initiatives throughout the prov., located in Eastern Afghanistan.  Cardona is deployed from Btry Bravo, 1st Bn, 178th FAR, S. Carolina Army NG and Alicea is deployed from Expeditionary Combat Readiness Center, Norfolk, Va. 

AF Senior Airman Kourtney Long, (right) and Airman 1st Class Patricia Zema, participate in the ceremony. The 2 airmen are members of the FOB Sharana Provost Marshals Office, an Air Force team assigned to the base to provide law enforcement and security.  Long and Zema are on a 6-month deployment from the 6th SECFOR Sqdrn, MacDill AF Base, Fla.

-30-

CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

World Trade Center I-beam unveiled at Bagram

Story and photos by Army Sgt. Spencer Case

Army Gen. Stanley McChrystal, cmdr of NATO’s ISAF in Afghanistan, poses with Army Maj. Gen. Curtis Scaparrotti,  cmdr of Combined Joint TF-82, Dawn Liberi, the senior civilian rep for RC-East, and Army Command Sgt. Maj. Thomas Capel, the CJTF-82 command sgt maj, in front of a 9' segment of an I-beam that was once part of the World Trade Center. The unveiling of the beam was part of the Memorial Day ceremony, May 31, at the RC-East command building at Bagram Airfield. 

BAGRAM AIRFIELD — More than 200 multinational troops at Bagram Airfield, converged in front of the command building to see an I-beam segment from the World Trade Center. “Today is about people,” said McChrystal, addressing an audience that represented all the task forces of RC-East at the RC East command HQ. “It’s about people who we have lost throughout the years, and, I think just as importantly, it's about people they've left behind.”

McChrystal emphasized the beam’s symbolism.  Once it provided structure to a building, so that life could be lived inside of it.  Now, in front of the RC East HQ, it would continue to provide structure in the mindset of troops.  Following McChrystal’s speech, troops applauded as Scaparrotti and Army Command Sgt. Maj. Thomas Capel,  removed the tarp that covered the 9', 950-lb beam segment. 

Residents of Breezy Point, N.Y., donated the beam through an org. called Sons and Daughters of America, Breezy Point.  The city of N.Y. had given a number of beams to the residents of Breezy Point, after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks that killed nearly 30 residents from the small neighborhood in Queens.

After the community constructed a memorial from the beams, Sons and Daughters donated 3 beams to the U.S. military.  One is at the recently opened Infantry Museum at Fort Benning, Ga., and the other is aboard the aircraft carrier, USS Nimitz.  The 3rd beam arrived at Bagram Airfield in March, based largely on the efforts of recently redeployed Army Maj. Stephen Ryan, a governance planner for Combined Joint TF-82 who hails from Breezy Point. 

As a tribute to its arrival March 31, Soldiers of the 612th Quarter Master Det., sling-loaded the beam along with a U.S. flag from a CH-47 Chinook helicopter, and flew around the installation with the beam and flag displayed.  In accordance with the wishes of Sons and Daughters, the beam will remain on loan to successive units in RC-East until the last American troops withdraw from Afghanistan.  The beam will then be sent to Fort Bragg, N.C.

Multinational troops bow their heads for the closing prayer during the Memorial Day ceremony.

Maj. Gen. Curtis Scaparrotti (left), and Command Sgt. Major Thomas Capel, unveil the I-beam. 

-30-

CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Medical Clinic Set Up in Zormat District

Story and photos by AF Senior Master Sgt. Jessica D’Aurizio 

An Afghan girl gets inoculations during a village medical outreach in Kaylan village, Zormat district, May 18.  AF and ANA medical personnel offered free medical care at a local schoolhouse. The majority of the 350 or so patients were treated with cold and flu symptoms, and skin problems. (Photo by Army Capt. William Geddes)

PAKTYA PROVINCE – Zormat district is considered a very dangerous area, according to Afghans that live in eastern Afghanistan.  However, this didn't stop the AF Medical ETT at FOB Lightning and their ANA counterparts at FOB Thunder from setting up a free medical clinic, and addressing some concerns of the Afghan villagers, May 18.

Each month, the joint AF and ANA medical team travels to a designated village to provide medical care as part of a village medical outreach mission.  Sometimes this is done in the face of danger.  As the convoy destined for the Zormat district proceeded outside the wire for the medical mission, the truck cmdr in the lead IEDs detection vehicle,  Army Staff Sgt. Joseph Brewer, reminded his passengers to buckle up. This area was notorious for IEDs, he said.  

“We've been hit by numerous IEDs since arriving in country last Oct.,” said Brewer. “We've also had more than a few finds, that EOD teams were called to detonate.”

The drive to the village, which was mainly dirt roads, took a little more than an hour.  “The ride was faster than normal,” said Brewer’s driver Army Pfc. David Elliot, also in the CIED unit.  “It sometimes takes 2-3 hours.”  Along the way, there were farmers tending their crops, workers digging irrigation ditches, and what looked to be heavy equipment preparing the ground for paved roads or bridges.

Upon arrival, the first order of business was to set-up security to keep all personnel safe while performing their mission.  Brewer pointed out the direction that indirect fire was most likely to come from.  As security teams set up perimeters and security was in place, the village elder was sought out to let the locals know there was free medical help available.

The village, called Kaylan, had a small school, according to Army 1st Lt. Corey Gilgan, convoy coordinator and EO for the CIED unit at FOB Lightning, which was the chosen site for the free medical clinic.  Gilgan's unit is based out of Fort Lewis, Wash. 

“We had around 350 patients throughout the day,” said AF Tech. Sgt. Ryan Harding, a medical tech, stationed at Buckley AF Base, Colo.  We didn’t see any women and only a few adults.” The medical personnel had asked why the local women didn’t come to the clinic, and were told that the village elders told them not to.

“We attribute the lack of adult patients to the fact that the area is less secure than some of the past locations we have set up free clinics,” said Harding.  To encourage locals to visit the free clinic, the security detail walked around and spoke to the village elders to let them know we were there to help.

The visit also gave both the U.S. and Afghan forces an opportunity to listen to the concerns of the local villagers.  Many of the Afghan locals expressed their opinion about the current situation in their village, including a belief that the violence may never end, despite more job opportunities being available.  Some members expressed gratitude and gratefulness towards the govt, but some also said that all Afghans need to pull together to make life better in Kaylan.

However, the conversations with the villagers were cut short when white flags were raised around Kaylan village. The white flags were a warning for the villagers to get off the roads, that there was trouble ahead.  Most of the locals quickly vanished from the area.

The security detail, headed by Brewer, moved their patrol to an adjacent village, Kala. This was familiar territory, because the detail was hit by an IED last week on a nearby road in the area. “You're sure to get in a fire fight if you go 2-3 kms that way,” said a homeowner, who was warning the team of nearby danger.  

The medical team continued to provide care to patients.  However, they hurried to see the last of the patients who were lined up outside, when a dust storm was approaching.  They quickly loaded up their left over supplies and themselves into the convoy vehicles.   As the convoy passed through Gardez at rush hour, the streets were packed. This was a good sign that the convoy was out of danger, according to Elliot, who was steadily sounding his horns to clear the way for the convoy to return home to FOB Lightning.

Army Sgt. Adam Jun is deployed with the Counter IE Detection Unit at FOB Lightning deployed from Fort Lewis, Wash., providing security in the Zormat district, May 18.  They provided security and cleared the roads of explosives for a medical team to set up a free clinic in the Kaylan village. 

Army Spc. Thomas Dill and Army Spc. Erik Jorgensen, both assigned to the Counter IE Detection Unit, trekked through a creek bed while on a foot patrol .

An Afghan boy gets inoculations. (Photo by U.S. Army Capt. William Geddes)

-30-

CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Parwan PRT engineers inspect Sinjit Dara road

Story and photo by AF Master Sgt. Kelley Stewart

BAGRAM AIRFIELD – Craig Marshall (right), Parwan PRT, USACE construction rep., and Capt. Sungmin Kim (left), Parwan PRT USACE engr, measure the Sinjit Dara road, May 26. The engrs were determining if the road could be widened, so it could be used as a proposed industrial park that could be built in the area. 

-30-

IRAQI STORIES:

DVIDS

Team Lumber Jack work with Iraqi Border Guards

Photos by Staff Sgt. Adelita Mead

U.S. Soldiers of Team Lumber Jack, 9th Iraqi Dept of Border Enforcement, 4th Region, Border TT, pose for a group photo at the South Region Border Guard HQ in Basrah, May 3. The BTT is responsible for advising, training, and mentoring the Iraqi border guards. 

Soldiers prepare to depart on a convoy to a training exercise at the South Region Border Guard HQ.

-30-

DVIDS

Mosul School Opening 

Photos by Spc. Jillian Munyon

Sgt. Mike Hill, Charlie Co, 1-36 ID, 1st Bde, 1st Combat Team, 1st AD, visits with local children outside of a school near Mosul, May 12. The Soldiers are there to celebrate the new renovations of the school.   

  

1st Lt. Ryan Carr, Charlie Co, writes down his name on a young boy's school book. 

Spc. Sheena Martinez and Pfc. Bobby Friend, visit with local children. 

Staff Sgt. Eddy Buhse cuts a slice of cake to celebrate the new school.

     

Capt. Michael Herbek and Staff Sgt. Eddy Buhse are interviewed by local media about their contributions to improving the school. 

     

1st Lt. Ryan Carr meets with some local boys. 

Capt. Michael Herbek and Staff Sgt. Eddy Buhse receive flowers. 

Sgt. Eric Czachorsk shakes hands with the local kids. 

-30-

USF-I

Fallen Soldiers Honored During Fitness Center Dedication

BAGHDAD - Members of USF-Iraq, Dep. Comm. Gen. (Advising and Training), dedicated the Scott-Wolfer Fitness Center on FOB Union III, in conjunction with Memorial Day events May 28.  The center was named for Army Col. Stephen Scott and Army Maj. Stuart Wolfer, who died during an indirect fire attack at the Phoenix Base Fitness Center, April 6, 2008.

Following the opening ceremony, nearly 50 people participated in a 5-km run to kick-off the Memorial Day activities.

"Like all of you ... they knew what they were leaving behind when they deployed, but they came to perform a mission that they believed in," said Iraqi Training and Advisory Mission Dir. Maj. Gen. Richard Rowe Jr., before the run. "These things are important for us to remember.  There's only one true way to honor these fallen heroes, and that is to succeed."

After the run, Rowe asked the participants to continue to honor the colonel and major by completing the mission for which they gave their lives.  "We must build an ISF that can stand on its own as we leave," he said.  USF-I, DCG (A&T) personnel and assets relocated from Phoenix Base to FOB Union III, in April 2010.

-30-

USF-I

First of 15 Patrol Boats Delivered for Iraqi Navy Training

BAGHDAD - The first of 15 patrol boats for the Iraqi Navy were delivered in Morgan City, La., May 20. The 35-meter P-301, built by Swiftships in Morgan City, will join a naval squadron of 55 vessels.  Currently, the Iraqi Navy has 2 marine bns and 4 large patrol ships that guard Iraq's territorial waters, protecting critical oil infrastructure and commercial traffic areas.

The first patrol boat crews are training in Morgan City, using a mixture of classroom, practical simulator training, and hands-on exercises to learn how to operate their equipment.  The additional boats are planned to begin arriving in Iraq, with the first 50 students scheduled to graduate in July.

In addition to the patrol boat training, the class and 5 more like it are scheduled to take place over the next year. Students will learn to work on 1 of 2 large offshore support vessels, known as OSVs that are projected to arrive Sept. 2011.  The OSVs allow the Iraqi Navy to provide its ships with assistance such as rescue services, offshore towing, maintenance/repair support, and safety and environmental services.

"We have an ambitious but achievable plan to facilitate modern training technology, and advanced training simulators", said Royal Navy Lt. Cdr. Paul Morris, the Training Officer at Iraq's southern port city of Umm Qasr. "The Iraqi Navy is keen to embrace modern training technology, from the new patrol boat simulators to school house equipment, such as smart boards and language labs," Morris said.

This initiative is one part of the overarching work being done to train and equip the 660,000 members of the ISF dedicated to the stability and sovereignty of Iraq.

-30-

USF-I

May 27, 2010

ISF arrest suspected AQI member, one criminal associate

BAGHDAD - ISF arrested a suspected AQI member and a criminal assoc., during a joint security op conducted approx 42kms NE of Baghdad, May 27.  ISF and U.S. advisors searched several buildings for the suspected AQI member, who is allegedly in charge of distribution of AQI propaganda materials throughout Iraq.  Info and evidence gathered at the scene, led Iraqi forces to make the arrest.

-30-

Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/6-02

Dear Interested Reader,

Step by step, medics make a difference at COP Hererra.  Sgt. Theodore Sweet thinks outside the box in Gardez.  Afghan Soldier embodies warrior spirit.  COP Hererra plays important role in Paktya prov.  

Iraq:  Ninewa prov. receives agricultural overhaul.  USF-I holds 1st Cropper TIF transfer conference.  Suspected smuggling leader arrested in Tikrit.  Suspected AQI criminal assoc. arrested in east Mosul.

Joanna

_________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Step by Step, Soldiers Make a Difference

Story and photos by Army Staff Sgt. Whitney Hughes 

Capt Norman Dupuis, a Physician’s Asst, attached to Co A, 3rd Bn of the 172nd Inf Regt, treats a one-year-old Afghan girl, May 21st whose feet were so severely burned 2 weeks ago, after stepping on hot coals, that she was in danger of losing her feet.  Since then, Dupuis and his medical team have been treating the girl at COP Hererra, where they are stationed. 

PAKTYA PROVINCE – The Soldier’s hand delicately cradled the child’s leg as the other skilfully cleaned the red swollen blisters that covered her tiny feet. His brow furrowed at each cry, yet his hands steadily continued their delicate work. The Soldier, Army Staff Sgt. Dominic Ayer, is a medic with Co A.  

Her father brought her in from a village outside the outpost. “When she first came to us, she didn’t even have bandages on her feet,” Ayer said. “The wounds were just open to the air.  She had 3rd degree burns on one foot and 2nd degree burns on the other." 

Before coming to the gate of COP Hererra, her father had taken her to 3 different clinics, but she was denied treatment, because they didn't have any money, and because the clinics were ill equipped, the man told Ayer. The father knew the Soldiers were the only hope for his daughter’s recovery. 

They've been cleaning, bandaging, and applying burn cream to the wounds to help them heal.  “We’ve seen a dramatic change in her injuries.  We’ve been taking our time and she's been doing very well,” said Army Capt. Norman Dupuis. “It’s pretty safe to say that she's probably over the hump. She's so young that she will be able to regenerate all that skin.”  

They've treated her about 5 times since her injury, but unfortunately, her father is only able to bring her periodically because he fears retaliation from insurgents, he said through a translator. “We know that the village they're from has a lot of insurgents from Pakistan,” said Ayer. “It's definitely frustrating, because we’ve started care and we need to continue it,” he added.  

“Several people say that they heard we are infidels.  However, after being treated at the clinic, they say that their family wouldn’t even help them as much as we did,” said Dupuis.  During their time at Hererra, the Soldiers have treated 9 major trauma cases, of which they were able to save all but 3 patients’ lives.  “We’ve had some decent victories.  Once they come here they see that we’re not infidels.  We’re good people, and we’re here to do whatever we can to help,” Dupuis. 

The father of the little girl was a first hand witness to this as he saw the diligence and compassion with which the Soldiers treated his daughter.  As the Soldiers worked, the girl’s father watched them intently, as he held her in a gentle embrace, kissing her forehead as she whimpered at the more painful parts of the treatment.  When the Soldiers were done, he spoke to them through a translator thanking them profusely for their help and promised to return the next day for treatment. 

Staff Sgt. Dominc Ayer, the senior medic, is shown treating the child.

Capt. Norman Dupuis, a physician’s asst, tenderly treats the young child.

-30-

CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Thinking Outside of the Box

Story and photos by Army Staff Sgt. Whitney Hughes 

Army Sgt. Theodore Sweet, a welder with Co E, 3rd Bn of the 172nd Inf Regt, welds an improved ammo box for a Mark 19 automatic grenade launcher, May 18. The ammo box will be mounted on the crew serve weapon, and allows the turret gunner to triple the amount of ammo that is readily available to them. 

GARDEZ - Just as some look at a blank canvas and imagine art, Army Sgt. Theodore Sweet looks at a piece of metal and sees innovations.  With the creativity of a sculptor and the weathered hands of a metal worker, he uses his workshop as his studio, and scrap metal as his canvas to create everything from brackets to bed frames.  His work isn’t displayed in a gallery. It's used by Soldiers everyday in the field. 

Sweet is a welder whose inventions and repairs have been integral to the success of not only the Soldiers in his bn, but also the ANA and special ops Soldiers.  “It seems like every day I make a new creation,” Sweet said. “Sometimes it seems like they’re looking for miracles, but in the end it always works out.” 

One of his more famous inventions includes a mount for an M-240B machine gun that he engineered for an all-terrain vehicle for SF soldiers. The vehicle, similar to a common 4-wheeler, had no weapon system before Sweet got his hands on it, and turned out to be an effective tool aiding special ops soldiers during a fire fight. “It definitely enhanced our capability to maneuver on the enemy,” said one Soldier, who didn’t give his name for security reasons.

Another of Sweet’s inventions include an improved amm box for an Mark 19 Automatic Grenade Launcher. The weapon is mounted in the turret on top of MRAP vehicles, which Soldiers use every day to travel around Afghanistan, and is one of their first lines of defense against attacks on their convoys.

Normally, the Soldiers can expend about 50 rounds of ammo before they have to reload.  With Sweet’s invention mounted in the turret, they can fire 3 times as many rounds before having to reload. This invention has also been tested and proven in combat by Soldiers, Sweet said.

Sweet is also asked daily to invent or replicate tools and hardware that are normally made by industrial machines. “I just give him a drawing and he makes it work,” said Gerard Pantin, a civilian contractor.  “Any type of welding we want, he comes up with the design and executes.”      

“It’s like molding clay,” Sweet said.  Sweet has only been a certified military welder for about 2 years. As a traditional NG Soldier, this is not his full-time occupation.  Sweet is a corrections officer.  His background in welding came from growing up on a farm, restoring old Mustangs, and working in a junkyard.

Sweet also knows first-hand the importance of effective equipment in combat.  In addition to his civilian experience, he also draws on his combat experience from his first deployment, where he served as a tanker in Ramadi, from 2005 to 2006. “There’s not much we can give him that he can’t fix,” said Chief Warrant Officer Larry Grace, the support maintenance tech supervisor for Co E.

Through his ingenuity, Sweet has proven that it's possible to not only think outside the box, but take that box and weld it into a life-saving innovation.

Sgt. Sweet holds a piece of hardware that he welded, May 18.  Sweet welds this and many other pieces of hardware from scrap metal that would normally be made by industrial machinery, at his metal shop.

Sweet stands behind a mount for an M240B that he created for an all-terrain vehicle, May 18. The mount was used during a fire fight by SF Soldiers recently. 

-30-

CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Afghan Soldier Embodies Warrior Spirit

Written by Army Pfc. Christopher McKenna 

FOB SALERNO  – Embodying the warrior spirit, an ANA Soldier showed the lengths some men will go to put duty before self, May 20.  In Zormat, Paktya Prov., Said Abrahim’s 203rd ANA Corps' element came under heavy fire from insurgents at an ANA checkpoint.

In the ensuing combat, Abrahim’s leg was nearly severed.  Being an ANA medic and having the overwhelming urge to remain in the fight, Abrahim placed a tourniquet on his own leg and severed the remaining attachment with a medical knife.

“This soldier embodies the warrior spirit that we seek to help the ANA instill in all of their soldiers," said Army Capt. Daniel Newman, cmdr for Co C, 3rd Bn, 172nd Inf Regt.  After being wounded again, he was finally disabled from being able to fight.  However, upon his medical evacuation, and sitting on a stretcher fully concious, the only question Abrahim had was how his fellow Soldiers had fared in the encounter.

The action demonstrated the ability of the ANA to repel an attack by insurgents, said Army 1st. Lt. Mark Fazio, fire support officer with Co. C.  Fazio said the event also showed that rather than run, the Afghan Army is willing to stay and fight a determined enemy, even in the absence of CF.

“This soldier's actions make me proud to serve with these Afghan warriors," said Army Sgt. Corey Joyal, team leader with Co. C.  Abrahim was evacuated to the FOB Sharana where he received treatment at the urgent care center.  He is expected to make a full recovery.

-30-

CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

Alpha Company, the authorities in combined action

Story and photos by Army Staff Sgt. Whitney Hughes

A view from a firing point at COP Hererra overlooking the village of Ali Kheyl.  Soldiers with Co A, 3rd Bn of the 172nd Inf Regt use the firing point to monitor activity in the village. 

PAKTYA PROVINCE – Tiny COP Hererra sit poised on high ground, about 7,500 feet above sea level, overlooking the villages of Jaji and Ali Khel, and within miles of the Pakistan border.  COP Hererra provides the ideal perch for the Soldiers who call the remote outpost home.  

From the outpost the Soldiers are perfectly positioned to operate their 3-fold mission, which includes mentoring and working shoulder-to-shoulder with the ANA, ANP and ABP, to provide security for the nearby villages in support of the GoA.

“What we do here is convince the people that they're better off with an independent govt, army and police force then they are with insurgents,” said Army 1st Lt. Micah Kidney, EO.  Part of what makes the company’s mission so essential is their proximity to the Pakistan border, from where most of Paktya prov’s insurgent presence comes. Their location allows them to act as a choke point for the influx of insurgents, weapons, and munitions.

Just 3 weeks into their mission, they found that they'd already begun to gain the trust of the local people, which lead to their first major victory against invading insurgents.  During a joint op between the company’s 1st and 3rd plts, the ABP, police and the Soldiers acted on a tip from a local boy, and found an enormous cache.

“We were providing security on the outer cordon, and a boy walked up and pointed at a house and said ‘Taliban.’ So, we alerted the ABP and assisted them in searching it.  What we found was basically a bomb-making factory. There was everything from Sodium Nitrate to claymore mines,” said Army Staff Sgt. Jon Carbonneau, a squad leader with the 3rd plt.

During another recent combined op, May 22, they searched a local village near where an IED had been set off. The ANP, and Co A Soldiers found several pairs of military uniforms. This was another important discovery.

In order to help the police become professional, one that the civilian population can rely upon, they're working on setting up standard operating procedures, and learn from not only the Co A Soldiers’ example, but also from veteran ANP units outside the area, said Army Sgt. Nick Ash, a squad leader. 

In Ash’s plt, he has 3 civilian policemen, and their knowledge and experience is a critical tool in helping develop the fledgling police force into a professional one, Ash said. “We all work together and we draw off our experiences,” said  Army Sgt. Scott McCullough, a fire team leader and civilian patrol officer.

Overall, one of the biggest achievements that the Soldiers have accomplished with their Afghan counterparts is the camaraderie they have built. “We've seen they're willing to lay everything down for their country. That isn’t something that we expected when we first got here.  We've learned that they've a lot in common with American Soldiers,” Kidney said.

A Soldier from the 3rd Bn pats the back of an ANP as their joint patrol enters a village, May 22. The group was on their way to search a village, where they later found military uniforms, which they believed were used by insurgents to disguise themselves as ANSF. 

An ANP and Army 2nd Lt. Sabin Clark, a plt leader, shake hands before they conduct a joint patrol.  

Army Spc. David Neidlinger, an infantryman, observes as an ANP uses his binoculars to scan a ridge for insurgents. Neidlinger and the policeman were looking for insurgents who had engaged their convoy earlier that day. 

-30-

IRAQI STORIES:

Ninewa Province Receives Agricultural Overhaul

Story by Spc. Dustin Gautney

Soldiers from 1st Bn, 9th FA, 2nd HBCT, 3rd ID, post security during a live stock distribution at the Al Nahreen farming assn, in northern Iraq.

COB MAREZ –  Currently, Iraq imports 72% of its agricultural goods from foreign nations, including Syria and Iran, driving market prices ever higher in a fledgling economy.  Recently to remedy the need for Iraq to import the majority of its agricultural, 2nd HBCT, "Spartan," 3rd ID used funds from its Cmdr's ERP to create a fully encompassing agricultural foundation, that plans to leave a lasting change to the landscape and economy of Iraq.

A CAB attached to the 2nd HBCT is teaching Iraqi farmers to adopt efficient grow methods, and providing feed pens for livestock as well, according to Sgt. Charles Schoenen, 422nd CAB. To begin the cycle of a fully functional agricultural economic system, 2 seed purification sites were built, one by the GoI, and another from U.S. CERP funds.  From the 2 locations, the seed purification sites will supply wheat and vegetable seeds for all of Ninewa prov.

Also benefiting from the seed purification sights are newly built Drip Farms, which are given to individual farming families. The Drip Farms greatly alter the way Iraqi farmers grow their crops because they use less resources, but yield a greater production from a single growing season.  Previously farmers would flood their fields to keep their crops fed. This would cost the farmers greatly, because of the water used, and it yielded more potential for damaging crops.

"The Drip Farms have running pipes that slowly drop a small amount of water directly to the crops," said 1st Sgt. Thomas Watts, 422nd Civil Affairs.  In addition to the Drip Farms, local farming families received hoop houses, similar to a green house. This allows farmers to have 3 growing seasons instead of the current 1 per year. About 62 hoop houses have been provided to local farmers throughout Ninewa prov.

To complete the agricultural system emplaced by U.S. and Iraqi funds, local livestock farmers received 75,000 chickens and 4,500 sheep. This livestock then in turn is fed at feed lots, which receives grain from feed mills. The feed lots provide a central location for local populace to feed their livestock, without needing to travel great distances with their livestock to graze on limited grazing fields, said Watts.

"The system which has been emplaced is truly a fully functioning agricultural economic system, from seeds, to the farms, to the markets. This has been one of the grandest and long-term projects to date," said Schoenen. "The long-term success of this project has the potential to greatly improve the agricultural infrastructure of the country, and in turn, the overall economy of the country."   

Surveying lines at a drip farm, Sgt. Charles Schoenen witnesses the newly changing agricultural landscape for Ninewa prov.  

A local Ninewa farmer shows off his crops that have benefited from the introduction to hoop house farms.

Local children play with sheep that are to be distributed to 4500 local farming families throughout Ninewa prov.

Local Iraqi farmers prepare 75,000 chickens for distribution to local farming families.

-30-

DVIDS

USF-I Dep. Comm. Gen. Holds the First Cropper TIF Transfer Conference

Story by Capt. Charon Camarasa

Maj. Gen. Jerry Cannon (center), U.S. Forces-Iraq dep. comm. gen. for detainee ops and provost marshal general, is flanked by Iraqi dignitaries during the April 21 Transitional Conference at Camp Cropper.  Key leaders met to discuss the future turnover of Camp Cropper's theatre internment facility (TIF), the last detention center to be transferred to the GoI.   

CAMP CROPPER -  The facility at Camp Cropper is the last theater detention facility operated by U.S. forces.  Maj. Gen. Jerry Cannon, welcomed the dignitaries, and outlined the focus of the conference. "What we hope to accomplish is that you open the door, you receive this info, and leave with great appreciation and understanding of the complexity of running Camp Cropper.  It's important to plan way ahead so there are no surprises," Cannon said. 

Cannon has been working with Dara Al-Deen, Iraqi minister of justice, to establish a joint effort, and plan follow-up conferences before the turnover of the TIF to Iraqi authorities.  "Four committees must be appointed by Mr. Dara in order to become the backbone of our subcommittees that are working between our conferences," Cannon said. "One will talk about engineering issues; another will talk about personnel and staffing issues, and how to manage detainees; and another will work on the real estate property involved in Camp Cropper," the general added. 

The conference addressed the essential points of running a detention facility and the legal transfer of custody of detainees. The current TIF has life support and logistical functions, medical care for detainees, and staff to support ops. The GoI must be able to assume these responsibilities, as well as the corrections officer facilities.

The overview of the TIF transfer concluded with a luncheon and a tour of the Cropper grounds with Col. John Huey, cmdr of the 89th MP Bde, who offered a first-hand look at the establishment.  Officials walked through the compound and were able to see some of the current programs offered to help detainees become self-sufficient and reintegrate into society upon release.  Programs include Arabic and basic English language studies, computer training, art, sewing and other services. 

"We got to see how important it is to plan," said Katahem Al-Taie, Iraqi deputy chief prosecutor-judge. "There was good communication between the U.S. and Iraq, and all our questions were answered. This is just the beginning of our future plans for the facility," he said. "This transfer will not happen unless everyone helps each other."

Two of Iraqi's key leaders exchange ideas during an April 21 conference at Camp Cropper.  Iraq's minister of justice, Dara Al-Din (left) and Wijdan Salem, Iraq's minister of human rights, discuss the upcoming mission. 

The main players in Camp Cropper's TIF transition to the GoI are Maj. Gen. Jerry Cannon, and Dara Al-Deen.  The leaders met April 21 in the first of 4 Theatre Internment Facility Transitional Conferences slated between April and July. Camp Cropper is the last detention center slated to be turned over to Iraq in July.  

-30-

United States Forces - Iraq

ISF arrest suspected smuggling leader

TIKRIT - ISF, detained the suspected leader of an int'l smuggling ring in Bayji, Salah Ad-Din prov., during a joint op with U.S. advisors, May 25. The detainee is accused of smuggling oil out of the Bayji area into neighboring countries, smuggling weapons across int'l borders, stealing oil from trucks to resell on the black market, and is believed to be associated with the 1920's Revolutionary Bde.  He is also believed to be responsible for the extortion of money from oil transportation companies, operating out of the Bayji area, by charging the companies a 20% tax to ensure safe passage of their trucks.

ISF believe the profits from the stolen oil are used to finance AQI and Islamic State of Iraq ops throughout Iraq.

-30-

USF-I

May 27, 2010

ISF arrest suspected AQI criminal associate in east Mosul

BAGHDAD - ISF arrested a suspected AQI criminal assoc. during a joint security op conducted in east Mosul, May 27.  ISF and U.S. advisors searched a building for a suspected AQI member, who is allegedly involved in the routine media production of AQI propaganda materials throughout Iraq.

Info and evidence gathered at the scene led Iraqi forces to identify and arrest an AQI criminal assoc. of the warranted individual.

-30-

Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/6-01

Dear Interested Reader,

TF Dark Knight Soldier starts "The Rocket City Run Club" at FOB Salerno.  ISAF contracting personnel meet with business community.  NATO agrees to split of RC-S.  Op updates throughout Afghanistan.

Iraq:  U.S. Forces transfer JSS to IA.  Raider Team out-lifts defending bench-press champions.  Tripartite mission denies violent extremists support zones.

Joanna

____________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

CJTF-82 in Afghanistan, Bagram Media Center

TF Dark Knight Soldier starts grassroots run club

Story and photos by Army Spc. Jonathan Allen 

Staff Sgt. James Shelby from Co B, TF Dark Knight, 3rd CAB, TF Falcon, makes a Rocket City Run Club T-shirt for a club member, April 8 at FOB Salerno.

FOB SALERNO – A Soldier has started up a running club in defiance of almost-daily enemy rocket attacks.  Army Staff Sgt. James Shelby, a counterintel agent, naturally named it “The Rocket City Run Club.”

“I would run outside on my own and see others out running who had bad form, or looked like they were really struggling to keep themselves going,” said Shelby. “I figured I could start up a club to help positively motivate people to get into better shape. There're always a lot of people out running, and I feel that there'd be even more people out there, if they just had a friendly group of people to run with.”

After only a few weeks in existence, the Rocket City Run Club has taken off.  Now there are more than 40 people participating in the different running groups offered by the club.

“I really enjoy running with the club,” said Spc. Ely Cartagena. “Half of the enjoyment comes from knowing that I’m getting in better shape; the other half is from the people who I run with.”

The Rocket City Run Club is intended for participants of all running abilities. It doesn't matter if a person can run 10 miles or if he can run one mile, or if the person is in the military, or if he is a civilian contractor working on the base. Everyone is welcome to run, and the club offers various meeting times and running groups to try and meet every participant’s specific need.

“Running makes me fit to fight,” said Staff Sgt. Harry McAllister, a supply sgt from HHC, TF Dark Knight.

Shelby has plans to open a gym with his wife when he returns to his home in Euless, Texas after his deployment. The run club is an opportunity to practice organizing recreational activities, so that he can do it better when he begins operating his own gym.

“There's already someone who plans on taking over the club when my deployment ends,” said Shelby. “By the way it looks, this club is only going to get bigger and better as more people find out about it.”

There's also a sister chapter of the club in the works to be opened in San Antonio, under the same name in order for people in the U.S. to help support those who are serving our country here.

“I support the Rocket City Run Club,” said Sgt. Damian Rodriguez, B Co., TF Dark Knight. “It’s a great way to network and meet friends, and stay fit, too.”

Staff Sgt. James Shelby (far Left), meets with members of the run club for an evening run, April 10. 

-30-

ISAF HQ Public Affairs 

ISAF Contracting Personnel Meet With Business Community

Story by Staff Sgt. Lucelia Ball

Afghan vendors listen to a guest speaker May 19 as they attended the Afghan Local Procurement Workshop. ISAF contracting personnel discussed the contracting process for NATO common funding in support of ISAF.   

KABUL – About 60 merchants attended the Afghan Local Procurement Workshop, joined by members of the Afghan Chamber of Commerce, the Afghan Investment Support Agency and the Afghan Industrial Union.  "All were invited because they were registered with Peace Dividend Trust – Afghanistan, an int'l non-profit and non-governmental org., that helps streamline local procurement activities in order to strengthen the Afghan private sector."

Lt. Col. Nathan Rump, ISAF head of contracting, gave an overview of the ISAF award process, which included the thresholds for quotes and compliance with NATO guidelines.  "If you want to work with us, we're always happy to help guide you through the process," he said.

Rump also discussed a new venture with NATO, the pending Afghan First initiative, which would allow the contracting office to make more extensive use of Afghan businesses.  "Last year, 33% of our contracts went to local businesses," he said. "This year, we're up to 50%.  We have some businesses that are performing very well on some small projects for us," he said. "Those people will probably be invited to bid on larger projects in the future."

The group next listened to Robert Young, a rep of the NATO Maintenance and Supply Agency, who explained the contracting process for his agency and how to register to get info on potential customer requirements.

"I think this workshop helped me understand better how to pursue more business for my company," said Hashmat Saahil, the gen. mgr. of Mineral Water Company that has been in business for 4 years. "When we first started out, we got some contacts and sent some emails, but we had no luck getting a contract until we learned how to apply for contracts properly. Workshops like this one will help our businesses be successful."

Another merchant was a staunch advocate of supporting local businesses. "When the military buys a water tank from a non-Afghan company, it can cost thousands of dollars to transport it from far away," said Muhmmad Arif, the executive director of the Afghan Industrial Union, and the director of a sports equipment company. 

The plan for the future is to set up multiple-day training sessions to guide merchants through the process. "We want to do everything we can to open the door for Afghan local procurement," said Young.   

-30-

International Security Assistance Force HQ Public Affairs 

NATO Agrees to Split of Regional Command South

AFGHANISTAN - On May 21, 2010, the North Atlantic Council in consultation with non-NATO ISAF Troop Contributing Nations, gave final authorization for the reorganisation of ISAF's RC- South and the establishment of an additional RC-SW.  This new org. will be effective later this summer.

The new RC-SW will have responsibility for the Helmand and Nimruz provs and will be placed initially under the command of the U.S.  RC- S, which is under the command of British Maj. Gen. Nick Carter, will retain the provs of Kandahar, Uruzgan, Zabul and Daikundi.

The decision was taken upon the recommendation by Gen. McChrystal, cmdr of ISAF, to optimize the command and control of an RC that has grown exponentially since its transfer to NATO's command in 2006.  With more than 50,000 ISAF troops and 8 ANA bdes operating in 6 different provs., the strain on the span of control would have been too high for RC-S in its present configuration. The new structure will ease the burden of RC-S, and enable more adapted and efficient counter-insurgency ops at the local level.

-30-

Office of the Secretary of Defense Public Affairs 

Operational Updates throughout Afghanistan

KANDAHAR PROVINCE - Afghan and int'l forces captured a Taliban cmdr, May 23, and several insurgents in the village of Kukaran, after intel indicated insurgent activity there. The cmdr is believed to be responsible for leading Taliban fighters in southern Arghandab, coordinating attacks on CF and distributing rockets, IEDs, small arms and ammo to fighters throughout the area. 

A combined Afghan-ISAF captured another Taliban cmdr NW of Kandahar City, May 22. The man, who surrendered immediately when confronted, is believed to be responsible for ambushing CF, and other attacks in the southern Arghandab and Dand Districts.

In other news, May 23: 

KUNDUZ PROVINCE -- A combined SECFOR seized materials used to build IEDs, following the search of a compound in the Chahar Darah District.

LOGAR PROVINCE -- A combined force detained several suspected insurgents, and seized a weapons cache following a search of a compound in Charkh District. The cache included several RPGs, multiple automatic rifles, ammo, grenades, and notes on how to conduct suicide bombings.

ZABUL PROVINCE -- A combined force searched a compound in the Shah Joy District and detained a suspected militant for further questioning.

HELMAND PROVINCE -- A combined patrol was given permission to search a mosque in Musa Qal'ah District, where they seized a cache consisting of multiple AK-47s, 200-lbs of homemade explosives, pressure plates, and a pro-Taliban painting. 

-- Also in the Musa Qal'ah District, a combined patrol found a cache consisting of 550-lbs of opium, and 2 AK-47s with loaded mags. Two people were detained for further questioning.

-- In the Kajaki District, an int'l patrol found a weapons cache consisting of 2 grenades, 2 mines, 6 smoke bombs ,and various explosive components. 

-- In the Washer District, a combined patrol discovered a weapons cache containing more than 1,200 machine gun rounds, 3 82 mm mortars and 4 120 mm mortars. 

FARAH PROVINCE -- A combined patrol confiscated a large weapons cache in a cave and tunnel complex in the Saji Valley. The cache contained 2 complete 82 mm mortar systems with extra tube and 34 mortar rounds, a 14.5 mm anti-aircraft gun with 200 rounds and 3 spare barrels, 2 82 mm recoilless rifle rounds, 7 RPGs, 175 mortar fuses, 14.5 mm and 12.7 mm ammo, and small-arms ammo.

In May 21 ops:

HELMAND PROVINCE -- A combined force detained several suspected insurgents while searching a series of buildings in Lashkar Gah District.

-- In the Garm Ser District, an ISAF patrol found 2 bags of ammonium nitrate, a common ingredient in IEDs. 

-- In the Now Zad District, a combined patrol found 2 IEDs, each with 10-lbs of homemade explosives. The devices were designed to detonate when stepped on.  

ZABUL PROVINCE -- A combined force detained a suspected insurgent, while searching a compound in Sha Joy District.

BAGHLAN PROVINCE -- An int'l patrol discovered a weapons cache in the Pul-e Khumri District.  Recent heavy rains uncovered the previously buried munitions discovered by local children. The cache, consisted of 20 82 mm grenades, 15 mines, and 7 artillery rounds.

KANDAHAR PROVINCE -- An int'l patrol discovered a weapons cache consisting of 4 82 mm rockets, a machine gun and an RPG in the Panjwa'i District.

-- A combined force destroyed an explosives factory with a precision air strike in Kandahar. The combined force was approaching a compound in a farming area in Zharay District, when they discovered the area was heavily mined to protect the building.  Once inside, the force discovered a high explosives factory used by insurgents to produce IEDs and mines. The SECFOR called in the strike, which destroyed the building. 

FARAH PROVINCE -- In the Bala Baluk District, an int'l patrol found 8 detonation devices that link several charges to 1 initiator, 4 pressure-plate initiation devices, 20 meters of detonation cord, 5 remote control initiation devices, and 40 battery packs. 

BADGHIS PROVINCE -- In the Murghab District, a combined patrol found 2 pressure-plate IEDs. 

-30-

IRAQI STORIES:

USF-I

U.S. Forces Transfer JSS to Iraqi Army

Story by Staff Sgt. Ryan Sabin

Sameer Al Haddad, receivership secretariat for the GoI and Capt. Robert Parsons, cmdr of Co B, 4th Bn, 31st Inf Regt, 2nd BCT, 10th Mtn Div, sign documents completing the transfer of JSS Cahill from U.S. Forces to ISF, May 17.   

BAGHDAD – The transfer comes as ISF in the area, specifically 1-45 IA, have proven their abilities in providing security for the local population. They've contributed to a 59% decrease in insurgent activities throughout the Mada'in area of Baghdad in the past year.

"There's a level of trust between the people and the ISF in this area that didn't exist even 2 years ago," said Capt. Robert Parsons. "It's because of the professionalism and values of 1-45 IA Bn."

"Our soldiers in this brigade will be the front against anybody who tries to destroy the security in the Mada'in area," said Col. Freyek, cmdr of 1-45 IA.

-30-

DVIDS

Raider Team Out-lifts Defending Bench-press Champions

Story by Pfc. Mitchell Fosman

Pfc. George Fuller races against the clock to complete as many repetitions as he can in 4 minutes, during a 225-lb press-off competition at the Scorpion Gym.  Fuller's team, Team Raider, won the competition with a combined score of 134 reps.

CAMP LIBERTY – Scorpion Gym filled with Soldiers who gathered around a bench, May 13, as 4 teams warmed up and readied themselves for a showdown of strength and stamina.

Members of the 4th Stryker BCT, 2nd ID "Team Raider" waited anxiously to begin this month's 225-lb bench-press competition.  Each team was comprised of 4 members.  Competitors were allowed to swap out and return for more reps as often as they wanted within the time limit.

The spotlight that day was on the Soldiers from 1192nd Engr Bn, who had won the top spot the previous month and came back to defend their title. "We're gonna strip ya'll's title," said Sgt. 1st Class Alfred Jackson, a member of Team Raider and the communications NCO-in-charge for 4th SBCT, as he sat on the bench before the event began.

"He's the one on the board for the 400-lb club," whispered one spectator to another about Jackson being one of the few individuals to have bench-pressed more than 400-lbs. Taking the bar first for his team, Jackson let loose with a burst of intensity, but like all the competitors, eventually the weight took its toll. 

"You've got to do as many reps as you can before you're tired," explained Pvt. George Fuller, from the 38th Eng. Bn., also with Team Raider.  As fatigue began to set in, Team Raider members swapped places seamlessly, yelling encouragement to one another as they heaved the bar into the air.

With fuel still in his tank and time running short on the clock, Lt. Col. Darron Wright, 4th SBCT, dep. comm. officer, stepped in to finish off the last 38 repetitions – more than any other single competitor. The only other competitor that came close was Jackson with 35.

"We came here to compete and we brought our best to take the title," Wright explained, still catching his breath while he waited for the announcement of the winner.  In the end, Team Raider won the competition with a combined 134 repetitions.  The defending champions trailed in second with a distant 117 reps.

Covered in sweat, Jackson held his medal and grinned as the crowd faded from the gym: "Feels good to be the winner."   

Sgt. 1st Class Alfred Jackson and Maj. William Voorhies, EO, listen to the rules being explained before participating in a 225-pound press-off competition.

While being spotted by Maj. William Voorhies, Lt. Col. Darron Wright bench presses his 38th and final rep.

-30-

DVIDS

Tripartite Mission Denies Violent Extremists Support Zones

Story by Sgt. Tyrone Marshall

A tripartite force consisting of IA, Diyala IP, and 3rd Peshmerga Bde Soldiers, along with Soldiers from A Troop, 1st Sqdrn, 14th Cav Regt, 3rd Stryker BCT, 2nd ID, rehearse hot-load training on a CH-47D Chinook helicopter at COB Cobra in Salah ad Din province, April 24. The Chinook, piloted by a crew from 3rd Bn, 25th General Support Aviation Bn, TF Hammerhead, was part of an air assault for Op Chelan III.   

TIKRIT – Tripartite is defined as "containing 3 parts, or involving 3 participants or elements."  This definition perfectly describes the combined forces involved in the most recent air assault inserted by TF Wings. This tripartite force consisted of Iraqi army soldiers, Kurdish and U.S. forces.

The Soldiers of TF Hammerhead; 2nd Assault Helicopter Bn, 25th Aviation Regt, TF Diamond Head; and 2nd Sqdrn, 6th Cav Regt, TF Lightning Horse, supported a tripartite force during Op Chelan III, April 24.  The air assault into the Lake Hamrin region, near Jalula, in Salah ad-Din prov., was to deny violent extremist networks, logistical areas to stage attacks against the Iraqi people.

"Our objective was on the eastern shore of Lake Hamrin, which had been a support zone for violent extremist networks," said Maj. Whitney Gardner, CH-47D Chinook helicopter pilot and ops officer, 3/25th GSAB, TF Hammerhead. "It was a place where, in the past, extremists had established a very well hidden cache site for weapons and ammo.  Extremists were staged there, smuggling a lot of weapons, ammo and explosive-making materials. They were smuggling those things in fishing boats across the lake."

This mission was significant for 3/25th GSAB, TF Hammerhead, since it's the first time this aviation TF has been the lead aviation element for a tripartite mission. As Iraq continues to transition to stability ops, it's become increasingly necessary for the existing SECFOR to work together.

"It's absolutely vital that IA, IP and Peshmerga forces work together in common security ops," said Lt. Col. Gregory Baker, cmdr, 3/25th GSAB, TF Hammerhead. "The Iraqi nation is taking steps to overcome the disputed internal boundary question.  Having the different forces work together is a way of building trust."

The scope and size of this clearing op made aviation assets particularly critical during the mission. "The assault force wanted to get on the ground as quickly as possible and clear a fairly large area. I'd say about a 5-by-5 mile area is what they were planning to clear," said Gardner. "They were going in there to disrupt the extremists' ongoing efforts, and they wanted to find the cache sites and recover the materials that could be used against ISF in the near future."

Baker pointed out some particular challenges in the area making aviation assets crucial. "Without our aviation assets, they wouldn't have been able to execute the op in the same manner. Our helicopters placed their forces in terrain they wouldn't have been able to access via ground movement. The lateral water obstacles, irrigation canals, marsh land, and river made the terrain nearly impossible to quickly ingress into.  We made that possible using the vertical dimension."

"This is the 3rd major op in the area in a really short amount of time," said Gardner. "We believe that the back-to-back ops are having a serious impact on the enemy's ability to store and stage weapons, explosives and bomb-making materials.  I think that during the previous ops we forced the enemy out of this particular area.  Altogether, I think the op has had a pretty dramatic impact on the enemy."

"I've been very impressed with every element of the ISF since we've been here," said Gardner. "Are they ready to take over? Yes, without a doubt. They've demonstrated that over and over again. They'll be very effective combating the extremists that want to disrupt the govt."

A crew chief (center) from TF Hammerhead, gives last minute instructions to a tripartite force. 

Maj. Whitney Gardner, CH-47D Chinook helicopter pilot and ops officer leads his crew during a review of the route for a tripartite air assault mission, during preparation at COB Speicher, near Tikrit, April 24. 

A tripartite force are inserted by a CH-47D Chinook helicopter at a landing zone.  

A tripartite force position themselves after conducting hot-load training for an air assault mission at COB Cobra, April 24.  

-30-

Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous