TROOP SCOOP: September 2010

September 2010

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/09-27

Dear Interested Reader,

Female officer candidates usher in new era. Ghazni PRT Soldier surprises mom on VTC. Khost PRT meets with district gov. Forces defeat attack on FOB Gardez. Suspected Taliban cmdr. detained in Kabul.

Iraq: "Snake Eaters'" new training proves valuable. Dogs are soldiers too. Father, daughter reunite at promotion ceremony. Strength in the 'Nowatay Nation."

Joanna

_____________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

DVIDS

Female Afghan Officer Candidates Usher New Era

Story by Staff Sgt. Clinton Atkins

Army Capt. Tamara Gonzales contributed to this article.

Abdul Wardak, Afghan Minister of Defense, presents Afghan 2nd Lt. Homira Safian, ANA Female Officer Candidate School instructor, with a U.S. Army Achievement Medal during an award ceremony, Sept. 22. Safian received the medal for instructing 29 Afghan female officer candidates during 20 weeks of training, which included 8 weeks of basic training and 12 weeks of advanced training. The advanced training was in logistics and finance.

KABUL – Much like the U.S. in the mid-20th Century, Afghanistan is experiencing changes in the rights afforded to women. Afghan women can now hold jobs previously unavailable to them, such as serving in a position of authority as an officer in the ANA.

A group of 8 U.S. Army women mentors and 29 Afghan female officer candidates are ushering in that change. In a joint effort between NATO Training Mission-A and the Afghan MoD, the ANA Female Officers Candidate School (FOCS) opened its doors in April. Over the past 20 weeks, 29 Afghan women – mostly housewives – have made history. The first class of female officers will graduate Sept. 23, with the candidates serving as finance and logistics officers.

“These women are true pioneers for Afghanistan,” said Army Staff Sgt. Abbigail San Soucie, FOCS advisor. “I am humbled that I was asked to be a part of this, and how these women came forward in this war-torn country.”

Afghan women serving in the military is still highly contentious, according to the FOCS advisors. “I think it's a difficult decision for the women, depending on how their families feel. There are still many people who don’t agree with it,” San Soucie said.

French Army Lt. Col. Christian Dugast, FOCS senior mentor and Officer Training Bde cmdr., said that the road to an unbiased Afghan military is a long one, because of societal constraints placed on women in Afghan culture, but it's still a road that must be travelled.
“It's very important to have women in the Army,” Dugast said. “It’s a way to involve women in their society. It’s very symbolic. It’s very important to show women can do the same as the men.”

The women in OCS feel it’s an honor and their duty to serve their country. “80% of my family is in the ANA,” said Khatera Ayoupur, FOCS trainee. “I always wanted to be a part of the ANA, and am so proud to wear this uniform. I am 100% ready to help my country; I love my country and our people.”

After the first class graduates, the barracks will relocate to Kabul Military Training Center, where a designated facility is already being renovated in order to accommodate up to 150 women. “My hope for the future is that lots of females come into the ANA,” Defense Minister Wardak said. “I hope you'll do a good job for them in Kabul, and for all of Afghanistan. I'm happy you're serving your country, and are coming into the Army. “As the first course, this is a good example for other females,” he said.

Women from the first graduating class stand for the playing of the national anthem.

Afghan Maj. Fahima Mesdah, ANA Female Officer Candidate School instructor, speaks during the graduation.

One of the top 3 ANA graduates is presented a gift by Enayatullah Nazari, First Deputy to the Afghan MoD. The gift was from the ANA Religious and Cultural Affairs Dept.

Instructors and students from the first graduating class of the Afghan National Army Female Officer Candidate School before an award ceremony recognizing the instructors for their leadership, Sept. 22. The instructors were awarded the U.S. Army Achievement Medal. Twenty-nine Afghan women completed 20 weeks of training, which included 8 weeks of basic training and 12 weeks of advanced training in logistics and finance.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Ghazni PRT Soldier surprises mom on video teleconference

Written by AF 1st Lt. Katherine Roling, Ghazni PRT, PA

Left to right, brothers Daniel and David Bader, both Army staff sgts at the time, pose in an old photograph, in 2002. David lost his only brother Daniel when his Chinook helicopter was shot down over Fallujah, Iraq, in Nov. 2003. (Courtesy family photo)

GHAZNI PROVINCE – The sole surviving son in the Bader family surprised his mother Sept. 19, on a video teleconference (VTC) that was meant to connect deployed Soldiers, Sailors, and Airmen with participants in Glendale, Colo., for the American Military Family fundraiser, “Hoedown for Heroes.”

1st Lt. David Bader, Ghazni PRT SECFOR platoon leader, sat in front of the computer camera and shocked his mother, Lona Bader, while she was enjoying the festivities of the fundraising event. Debbie Quackenbush, the founder of the American Military Family, Inc., had asked the Ghazni PRT ahead of time not to tell David’s mom about the VTC, since she wanted it to be a surprise.

The result was heartwarming. “Hi mom,” David said, waving on camera to his mom and the crowd. Other PRT members were sitting in the background, holding their breath.
David’s mom was stunned to see her son on a large screen at the “Hoedown for Heroes” event, and she had a hard time finding words. They spoke about the food at FOB Ghazni, to which he replied, “We’re either up or we’re down.” That comment brought a laugh from the crowd and PRT members.

This is David’s 2nd deployment to Ghazni prov. He was last deployed to FOB Vulcan, just north of FOB Ghazni, in 2007 as a police mentoring team leader. David, a husband and father of 4, apologized to his mom about not keeping in touch over the weekend. The Afghan parliamentary elections took place Sept. 18, and the VTC took place Sunday morning for those in Afghanistan.

David and PRT SECFOR members, assigned to Charlie Btry, 1st Bn, 178th FA, out of S. Carolina, were patrolling in Ghazni Prov., providing security for Afghan voters late into the night, so the early wake up at 5:30 a.m. Sun., left him and others bleary-eyed from a lack of sleep.

The reunion between mother and son was a memorable sight to see, since David’s younger brother, Daniel, had died at age 28 in a helicopter crash, with 15 other soldiers in Fallujah, 7 years ago. The Chinook that was shot down Nov. 2, 2003, was carrying Fort Carson troops home from Iraq on leave.

The brothers were very close. “Most brothers and sisters tend to fight a little bit, but not Dan and me. We grew up pretty tight. We were both Army Brats too,” David said, using the term to describe children who grow up with a parent in the military. In this case, it was their father.

Daniel’s sacrifice for his country left behind a wife, daughter, mother, father and a brother. Staff Sgt. David Bader at the time met with former President George W. Bush in a private meeting with the families who lost a loved one in the Nov. 2 helicopter crash.

David recalled finding out about his brother’s death, staying positive despite the tragedy.
“Even though it sucked that my brother died, a lot of cool things happened,” he said. He was able to meet former President Bush, and received tickets to a Corn Husker’s football game at the University of Nebraska, since he grew up there and moved to Colorado later. At the game, there was a tribute to his brother Daniel and other Nebraska soldiers who had died in Iraq. Daniel’s wife received a photo of Dale Earnhardt, autographed by his son, Dale Earnhardt Jr., from Dale Earnhardt, Inc., because Daniel loved NASCAR. “There was a lot of cool things that happened, but I would trade all those things in to get Dan back; don’t get me wrong,” David said.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Khowst PRT meets with district governor

Photos by AF Senior Airman Julianne Showalter, Khowst PRT PA

KHOWST PROVINCE – Army 1st Lt. David Tressler, Khowst PRT civil affairs officer, greets the Sabari District, Gov. Muhklas, before a meeting at the district center, Sept. 21, to discuss security concerns that hinder the development possibilities in the area. The discussions centered on ideas to improve the district residents’ support of current and future projects, and their ability to provide security at the sites.

Members of the Khowst PRT wait outside the Sabari District Center, while Gov. Muhklas finishes a meeting with bazaar shop owners.

Gov. Muhklas explains how security can improve with a united people and strong resolve.

1st Lt. David Tressler laughs while Gov. Muhklas, tells an Afghan proverb, during a meeting at the district center.

Members of the Khowst PRT at the meeting with Gov. Muhklas.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Forces defeat attack on FOB Gardez

PAKTYA PROVINCE – At least 5 insurgents were killed and 1 captured, during a failed attack, Sept. 24. The attack began when a vehicle, followed closely by 4 suicide-vest-wearing insurgents, attempted to breach a fortified area of the base. CF engaged the vehicle, destroying it and disrupting the attack. The remaining attackers were killed as they attempted to flee the scene.

In the aftermath of the incident, EOD Soldiers found and disposed of the suicide vests. Two Afghan Security Guards were wounded during the attack ,and an Afghan civilian employed at the base was killed. No CF were killed or injured.

The op is still ongoing with CF pursuing the remainder of the attacking force, estimated to be around 20.

A vehicle used in a failed insurgent attack sits on the road outside FOB Gardez.

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ISAF Joint Command

Suspected Taliban Commander Detained in Kabul

KABUL - Multiple intel reports and tips from local citizens led to the detainment of a wanted Taliban cmdr., by Afghan and coalition SECFORs, Sept. 22.

The target was a Taliban cmdr., and IED attack planner, who operates in and around the Kabul area. He's responsible for planning and coordination of numerous attacks on Afghan and CF.

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RC-SW

Slowly but Surely, Afghans Regain Their Home

Photo by Sgt. Heidi Agostini

LASHAR GAH - Sgt. James Monroe, an infantryman with 1st Bn Scots Guard, rests during a patrol in Lashkar Gah, Sept. 17. The Afghan police conducted a patrol to search for bomb-making factories. The police were also able to inform local residents, as to where polling stations were for the following day's Afghan elections.

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IRAQI STORIES:

Blackanthem Military News

'Snake Eaters' new training proves valuable

By Tech. Sgt. Kevin Wallace

Royal AF Regt Inf. exercise combat scenarios during a training mission at Davidstow, North Cornwall, England. Realistic combat training is necessary to prepare medics for combat ops in Southern Afghanistan, Sept. 22.

(Royal AF Photo by Senior Aircraftman Chris Davidson)

BASTIAN INT'L AIRPORT IRAQ/RAF MILDENHALL, England - The sun was just starting to set on the desert sky as a convoy of RAF Regt Inf. made their way back from a long and draining patrol to Bastian Int'l Airport, Iraq.

As the convoy approached the airport, Sgt. Chris Perrio-Stone, combat medic trainer, came upon a water truck that had lost control and flipped over, crushing a passing vehicle and pinning 4 Iraqi men inside.

Sgt Perrio-Stone and a fellow "snake eater" (a term respectfully given to RAF Regt by U.S. Airmen from neighboring RAF bases) rushed to the aid. Before they could make their way to the accident, the sgt smelled strong odors of petrol, and halted the junior medic.

The 2 quickly noticed gasoline spewing out of the car, and diesel flowing from the water truck. To add to the incredibly dangerous scene was a handful of Iraqi civilians smoking nearby. "I instructed the Iraqis to move back immediately and to put out their cigarettes," said Sgt Perrio-Stone.

When they reached the crushed car, they found 2 deceased men in the back, a conscious passenger, and the barely alive driver. "The driver had 2 compound fractures," said the sgt. "Both of his femurs were sticking out of his thighs, and literally pinning him under the steering wheel. His head was also dented in, and I knew he had very serious head trauma."

Time was of the essence. The medics would have to act quickly, if they had any chance of saving the 2 men's lives. However, when Sgt Perrio-Stone looked toward his junior medic, it was clear that he was in shock and couldn't help much. Sgt Perrio-Stone began to treat the victims, but due to the excessive head trauma with the driver, and unseen internal damage to the passenger, both men died.

Reflecting on the accident, Sgt Perrio-Stone said he believes there was no way to save the men, but knew that RAF Regt medics training must change. "In the madness of a roadside bomb or even a traffic accident, if any one person on an infantry team must remain focused, it's the medic," he said. "We've got to be able to react to whatever is in front of us, maintain life, and give our surgeons something to fix."

With that in mind, Sgt Perrio-Stone crusaded for new and more-realistic training for his medics. As a result, all infantry medics now spend time in U.K. hospitals, where they're exposed to human blood and real-life smells.

The RAF Regt now uses volunteers who've lost a limb in battle, but still want to serve. Utilizing special moulage teams, and the fact that the members already have a missing limb, combat medic trainers are able to give their new medics realistic human casualties to respond to.

Additionally, giant leaps have been made to make battlefield training as real as possible. Recently, the 15 Sqdrn RAF Regt combat medics trained with 100th Air Refueling Wing SECFORs to prepare themselves for ongoing combined U.S. - U.K. deployments, where Inf. medics are serving in roles similar to U.S. AF pararescuemen.

"If I can get my medics to a place where they are mentally and physically ready for combat, then I've created a force multiplier," said Sgt Perrio-Stone, who claimed battlefield first aid is his passion. "I'm not trying to glorify war or anything like that," continued the sgt. "But, if anything ever happens to me, I want to be confident that the man next to me can save my life."

RAF Regt combat medics are set to deploy to southern Afghanistan with nearly 150 other sqdrn members in Nov. While there, they'll work hand in hand with the pararescuemen of the 26th Expeditionary Rescue Sqdrn, known all over Afghanistan by their call sign, "PEDRO."

"The British take their job very seriously," said AF Staff Sgt. Vincent Hnat, a PEDRO gunner aboard HH-60G helicopters. "Their medics are zealots when it comes to saving lives. There's no parallel when it comes to the IRT and the MERT's dedication to saving a British life out there. As an American, it's great to see a true ally and friend in the fight with us."

The PEDRO cmdr. echoed Sgt. Hnat's sentiment. "The op here is a great opportunity to come together as a combined team, execute a shared vision and strategy, and learn from each other, while executing combat ops and saving lives," said AF Lt. Col. Thomas Dorl, 26th ERS cmdr, in an e-mail from his deployed location.

"Regardless of how the next few years in Afghanistan work out, win or lose, I will know that my job, my mission, and my role was a righteous one," said Sgt. Hnat. "We fight hard. At a moment's notice, we'll throw ourselves into the fray to save a wounded soldier - without regard for our own lives.

"Whether we're hoisting IED victims out of a mine field, shooting our way into and out of a hot landing zone for a gunshot wound victim, or flying on a zero-illumination night into a zero-visibility landing for a local national child who was just in a car accident, we'll go," said the seasoned gunner. "We'll do it," Sgt. Hnat said. "These things we do ... that others may live."

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Blackanthem Military News

Dogs are Soldiers too

Story and photo by Spc. Raymond Quintanilla

Sgt. Ricky, a military working dog, attacks Staff Sgt. Kenneth Hennig a specialized search dog handler for the 40th MP Det out of Fort Sill, Okla., during bite work training in Basra, Sept. 13. The canine and his handler, Spc. David Steele with the 34th MP Det., from Fort Knox, Ky., have been deployed as a team since Nov. 2009. Hennig and Steele are attached to the 1st ID.

BASRA - Employed for a number of tasks such as tracking, scouting, narcotics and explosives detection, these canine Soldiers provide combat support and protection for installations and personnel worldwide.

Sgt. Ricky, already a seasoned veteran, is a 5-year-old German Shepherd, and a trained patrol explosive dog, on his 2nd deployment to Iraq. "At an early age, Ricky has approx 275 missions combined," said Spc. David Steele. "One of the biggest missions on this tour was the elections," Steele said. "In the span of 2 days, we provided security services to approx 30 polling sites. That's a long day for a dog."

"While the dog's senses such as hearing, smell and sight may be ten times greater than that of humans, canines also provide a good visual deterrent," Steele said. "When we respond to a crowd scene and they see Ricky's size," Steele said, "they back off. He provides a psychological deterrent."

Steele said the handler must stay focused, because the dogs mirror their handler's mental state. "We like to say 'it runs down the leash'. If I was having a bad day, he senses it," Steele said. "A couple of weeks ago I found out my house dog passed away. I was upset.
That night, Ricky laid in bed with me. He would not leave my side," Steele said.

These canines begin their military service as pups. They go through basic and advanced training, and continue throughout their entire service life with proficiency training until retirement. Each qualified dog must be available for duty worldwide, just like Soldiers.

Steele said he would like people back home to think more about the dogs as Soldiers. "I know people back home focus on us Soldiers on their 4th or 5th deployment," Steele said. "Ricky's on his 2nd, and is only 5. He'll probably have 1 or 2 more. He might see Afghanistan. We Soldiers obviously go through a lot. The dogs go through a lot, too," said Steele.

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DVIDS

Father, Daughter Reunite at Daughter’s Promotion Ceremony

Story by Cpl. Daniel Eddy

Army 2nd Lt. Aiana Janica Garin, a communication officer with Co B, Div. STB, 1st AR Div., is promoted to 1st lt, Sept. 19, by her father, Warrant Officer Romeo Garin, a maintenance tech, with 4th Assist and Advise Bde, 3rd ID, 1st AR Div., at Camp Liberty.

BAGHDAD — “This is a great family affair,” said Lt. Col. Lane Turner, cmdr. of DSTB.
This is Aiana’s 1st deployment; her father’s 1st deployment was with the 1st AR Div. in 2003.

Aiana said that when her father 1st deployed to Iraq in July, she knew she wanted him to be the one to promote her. “It’s a huge deal,” Aiana said with regard to her father promoting her. “It means a lot to me to be serving under the same div. as my dad. This is my 1st promotion, and it was an honor.”

Romeo said that he was very proud to have the chance to promote his daughter, and that the Army Values helped him raise his daughter. “I can apply it to my kids on how to be successful in life and how to discipline yourself,” he said.

Even though father and daughter are in the same division, they're not in the same location. Aiana is stationed at Camp Liberty, and Romeo is stationed farther west, at Camp Ramadi. Romeo was at Camp Liberty for a maintenance course and was fortunate enough to have the dates coincide with his daughter’s promotion.

On this day, it was the Romeo’s turn to promote his daughter. Next year, Aiana will return the favor by promoting her father to chief warrant officer 2.

1st Lt. Aiana Janica Garin is congratulated by Chief Warrant Officer 5 Randy Johnson, the div. maintenance officer for the 1st AR Div.

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Strength in the Nowatay Nation

Story by: Spc. Dustin Gautney/Spc. Gregory Gieske

Soldiers from Crazyhorse Troop, 3rd Sqdrn, 7th Cav. Regt., 2nd Advise and Assist Bde, 3rd ID, take the opportunity to explore the ruins of Al Hatra, in Northern Iraq, during their current deployment in Mosul, Sept. 24.

MOSUL - They call themselves members of the “Nowatay Nation,” which is the Troop’s motto, derived from a Lakota-Sioux war cry that means “It’s a good day to fight; It’s a good day to die!” This offensive mindset has been ingrained in the NCOs of Crazyhorse Troop, since beginning their deployment to Iraq in the fall of 2009.

Over the past year, the Troop has found themselves in all parts of the Ninewa prov., conducting missions that range from training multi-national forces, to securing vital lines of communications. The key to their success has been in the flexibility and strength of their NCOs. Empowerment isn’t just a word that is paid lip service in the Troop; it's practiced. This is clearly evident by the NCOs serving in leadership positions. The troop's 1st sgt. is currently a sgt. 1st class; the platoon sgts. are staff sgts., and half of the section sgts are sgts., all of whom are serving in positions of greater responsibility than their rank.

“Since arriving to Crazyhorse last spring, I’ve been nothing but impressed by the caliber of NCOs that this Troop produces,” said Capt. Joe Byerly, the Troop cmdr. The 1st task for a newly promoted NCO in Crazyhorse Troop, is to recite the NCO Creed in front of every member of the Troop, standing in formation.

Sgt. 1st Class Brian Walker, sees the recitation of the NCO Creed as, “that NCOs opportunity to pledge is not only to himself, but to the rest of the Troop, on how he's going to set the example personally and professionally.” They spend countless hours studying special activity reports in the Troop’s area of op, developing multiple and innovative courses of action.

“They’ve seen their recommendations implemented at the Sqdrn and Bde level, so they know that their vote counts, and that's what helps stimulate their initiative,” said 2nd Lt. Paul Guzman, a platoon leader in Crazyhorse Troop.

“I truly believe that the corps of NCOs within this org., is going to have lasting effects not only within the Sqdrn, but throughout the Army, as they change duty stations and continue to train and develop the next generation of leaders,” said Capt. Byerly.

The “Nowatay” character has truly been embraced, and the NCOs of Crazyhorse Troop now stand alongside the leaders, that have led this proud band of warriors in combat since 1866.

Soldiers from Crazyhorse Troop take the opportunity to explore the ruins of Al Hatra.

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Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/9-26

Dear Interested Reader,

LAR Marines keep Shabu safe. Engrs. check on project in Charikar. Ghazni PRT, ANA provide security during election. PRT engrs. turn lights on learning. GOA implements budgeting system.

Iraq: Social science: saving lives in Basra. IP orphans and widows receive donations. Helping Iraq fine-tune planning at Camp Victory.

Joanna

___________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

DVIDS

LAR Marines Keep Shabu Safe

Story by Cpl. Eugenio Montanez

Marines with Weapons Plt, Co B, 1st LAR Bn, patrol toward the village of Shabu, Sept. 15. Twice a day the Marines patrol several miles to get to Shabu to maintain village security.

COP SHABU – After Marines patrolled through the hot Afghan desert, jumping over canals, and traversing cropped fields, possibly laden with IEDs, they finally arrived at the remote village of Shabu.

Marines with 1st LAR have been making this journey for 5 months. “Our mission is to win the civilian populace from the Taliban,” said Lance Cpl. Matthew Tipton, a rifleman. “We do this by constantly talking to them every day, asking them how we can help. The people see us a lot, and so, their trust in us has improved greatly since we arrived.”

Having the trust of the locals has paid great dividends for the Marines. It's helped them gather invaluable intel on insurgent activity in the area. “The locals are very cooperative with us, and always tell us what’s going on in their village,” Tipton said. “They like telling us their problems, because they know we'll try to find a solution for them.”

As a result of shuras, or meeting with village elders, the Marines of 1st LAR recently found the largest drug cache in their area, accounting for approx 60 kilos of processed drugs.
“We’ve also had great success clearing out the village of caches of weapons and IED’s, for the last couple of months,” Tipton added.

"The Marines’ strong presence in the area make the people feel safer and more secure," explained Lance Cpl. Kyle Bachman, a mortarman. “We sincerely ask the people how their day has been, or if they have any plans,” said Bachman. “We also ask them if they like having us around, and they always say they’re thankful for what we do.”

Outside the village, Marines stop at random roads, and set up vehicle check points to search for drugs or weapons. The Marines conduct night patrols to make sure that the people are safe, and to keep the Taliban out of the village.

“We always have to keep the security tight, and keep our eyes constantly in our area of ops,” said Tipton, “because if the Taliban start doing whatever they want, then we lose everything we've accomplished.”

Sgt. Nathan McLain, a squad leader, talks with a village elder in Shabu.

Lance Cpl. Demeterius Duncan, a mortarman, passes out candy to the local children.

Lance Cpl. Garrett Mellor, a team leader, and Lance Cpl. Zach Martin, a mortarman, search a vehicle at a vehicle checkpoint.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Engineers check on project in Charikar

Photos by Army Spc. Kristina Gupton, TF Wolverine PA

PARWAN PROVINCE – Army Capt. Sungmin Kim, a civil structural engr with the Parwan PRT greets the Parwan Dir. of the Ministry of Higher Education, in the city of Charikar, Sept. 20. Kim and members of the Civil Military Support Team, and the Republic of Korea PRT visited the school to inspect a newly constructed building, that will be used as a teachers training college.

Capt. Sungmin Kim nspects a newly constructed building that will be used as a teachers training college. Kim makes an assessment of the building, notes and takes pictures of any deficiencies that need to be corrected before the building can be opened for use.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Ghazni PRT, ANA provide security, hope during election

Photos by AF Tech Sgt. JT May III, Ghazni PRT PA

GHAZNI PROVINCE – An ANA soldier challenges 2 Afghan men at a traffic control point, Sept. 18. The TCP was set up and manned by Ghazni PRT members and ANA soldiers, to ensure that Afghans could peacefully vote, without fear of insurgents trying to disrupt the process during the parliamentary election. All individuals and cars that passed through the TCP were checked for weapons before proceeding.

Front to back, Army Sgt. Jimmy McCormick, Ghazni PRT SECFOR member and Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Prince Benton, Ghazni PRT radio talk operator/gunner, provide security at the front traffic control point.

Ghazni PRT SECFOR members and ANA soldiers pose for a photo after the ANA received water and Meals, Alternate-Regionally-Customized. Providing the meals and water to their ANA counterparts is a standard practice instituted by Navy Cmdr. Philip Kapusta, Ghazni PRT cmdr., every time the PRT is in close proximity or works with their Afghan counterparts.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

PRT engineers turn lights on learning

Written by AF 1st Lt. Amy Abbott, Kunar PRT PA

Brandon Toliver, an engr with the USACE, assigned to the Kunar PRT, inspects the electrical box in the Donai School, Aug. 11. Donai and many of the future schools in the prov. are slated to use alternative sources of energy, such as solar power. (Photos by AF Staff Sgt. Nathan Lipscomb, Kunar PRT PA)

KUNAR PROVINCE – Four years ago children sat sprawled on the ground under a tree in the village of Lahor Dag, intently listening to their headmaster in a make shift school. Shortly after, The UN Children Fund brought them a tent for a classroom. Today, the finishing touches are being made on a 2-story brick and mortar school that will offer classrooms, furniture, offices and something many of the students don't have at home – electricity.

Lahor Dag is one of 13 schools currently under contract with the Kunar PRT, each one using solar panels to provide the students with electricity. “The schools are important to help expose the kids to different kinds of things,” said Brandon Toliver. “For some of these children, the concept of having power, where you can just flip the switch, is such a fairytale to them, that it will take something like this, where they can actually see it and say, ‘Wow, so this is what we learned about in science class.’”

Implementing solar panelled electricity is a cost efficient option in this area. The panels are less expensive to purchase here than in the U.S., and the energy is renewable. Another feasible alternative is to use a generator to provide power for the schools, but with generators, fuel costs and maintenance issues become a problem.

Though easier in some ways, installing electricity in a prov. where many villagers still live by candlelight presents its own unique set of challenges. There are very few electricians here, and the contractors who don't already have electrical engrs on staff, are required to bring one in.

The electrical laborers get training from both the PRT engrs as well as the site supervisors. The most common issue is that the laborers are not used to running their wires through the wall, and instead, connect everything directly to the power source. They do not use panel boxes or breakers. “They’re not really thinking about the overall scheme of things,” said Toliver. “It’s very dangerous.”

Wiring of this kind can often cause fires or get people electrocuted. "Another struggle," Toliver explained, "is getting the workers to understand that specific wires can only handle a maximum amount of voltage."

Further challenges are teaching equipment maintenance, and the importance of regular upkeep. This was a valuable lesson learned the hard way at the Badad Kalay School, where the system ultimately failed because the school maintenance didn't know how to sustain the solar panels.

Though the engrs. are doing their part to help, they emphasize to the villages that the long term affects of these projects, like the future of Afghanistan, lies in the hands of the Afghan people. The hope is that in the end, the solar paneling techniques the laborers learn will not just illuminate children’s classrooms, but eventually shed light on a whole village.

“After fitting solar systems in these schools, the electrical workers will be able to fit these systems in the local sector, and utilize the sunlight for electricity, and earn more money this way,” said Safi.

In the Lahor Dag School, classes have already started in the building, with eager students sitting on the floor, even though the roof hasn't been finished. “The children are excited, and as the construction gets closer to being finished, it becomes more difficult to keep them away,” said Toliver. “They’re very hungry for knowledge.”

Soon the project will be complete, and 12 more schools are soon to follow. Yet as the engrs. continue to rotate in and out, this group will always know that they've left a light on for the children of Kunar.

Brandon Toliver looks at a water pump that will provide running water at the Donai School. Donai and many of the future schools in the province are slated to use alternative sources of energy, such as solar power as well as have running water.

Members of the Kunar PRT inspect the Lahor Dag School. The school is the next in the prov. scheduled to open, and will be equipped with solar panels for electricity.

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DVIDS

GoA Implements Budgeting System

Story by Tech. Sgt. Stacy Simon

District and provincial leaders discuss a solution to a budgeting scenario intended to familiarize them with a new program introduced at the East Region Provincial Budgeting Workshop, Sept. 21. The workshop introduced the Cmdrs' Emergency Response Program (CERP) as a Budget, a program designed to better manage funds, understand present and future costs, and increase stability within Afghanistan.

NANGARHAR PROVINCE - Afghanistan has undergone heavy development over the past 9 years, resulting in vast improvements in the areas of education, health, living conditions, travel and security. These positive changes are due in part to partnering projects, coordinated by the GoA, ANSF, U.S.-led ADTs and PRTs, and CF. Like any worthwhile program, there are associated costs.

Foreseeing the future monetary needs of Afghanistan to continue these projects, RC-East created a program to assist GoA in understanding the budgeting process, that will ease the transition from the U.S. dollar to the afghani.

TF Bastogne is the first to implement this program. Afghanistan’s Ministry of Finance, along with Soldiers and civilians from the ADTs, PRTs, and TF Bastogne gathered at the governor’s compound, Sept. 20-21. Leaders from Nangarhar, Nuristan, Kunar and Laghman provs. attended the conference.

“This is the first time the Central Ministry of Finance Budget office is coming down to discuss with a group of provincial ministries, the development of the budget,” said Joanne Jensen, a Dept of State rep. “What everyone has been pushing for, is that the central ministries start pushing down the budget, and working with the provs and the districts.”

Most of the funding for projects and sustainability come from donor nations, various TFs and other orgs. The prospect of removing such funding has created a potential for instability within Afghanistan. This program is designed to prevent that. “This is a step in that direction to explain the budget, to discuss with the ministries their priorities and issues with the budget process,” said Jensen. “It's also very helpful for TF Bastogne, both civilian and military mentors, to know how the money is flowing down from the central ministries to the provs. and to the districts.”

“CERP as a Budget is designed to get the Afghans to do an inventory of all the things that have been done, all of the things that have been built for them,” said Army Maj. David Kaczmarek, TF Bastogne civil affairs officer. “To capture the cost associated with it. so they'll know how much it’s going to cost them every year to run and maintain all of these projects.”

The program also teaches the Afghans how to put together a development plan with short, mid, and long-term goals. These plans must support the objectives addressed in the Afghan National Development Strategy.

"A lot of times, if you ask some of the locals, they’ll tell you the PRT is the govt, because they gave the service deliveries up until this point," said Kaczmarek. “The point of this is that we transition the mgt. piece to the Afghans. But, we have to train them up. That’s really what CERP as a Budget is going to do for them.”

GoA financial advisors eagerly took the initiative to begin teaching district and provincial officials on budgeting effectively. By taking the front, they hope Afghanistan will soon be able to stand on its own two feet. “In order to be a successful Afghanistan govt, they have to change their budget system,” said an Afghan rep. to the district and provincial leaders. “We hope with hardworking, one day we will be able to improve a little bit and cover our own budget.”

“Any project that comes out of this will be completely based on the Afghan govt’s developmental efforts,” said Kaczmarek. “Coalition is now going to play the role as mentor to make sure they're looking at the right things for projects and sustainability. Making sure they're good quality projects, understanding the difference between needs and wants. Everything that does come out of this is going to be an Afghan product,” he said. “More importantly, it’s going to be based on the Afghan system that's supposed to be in place, not the one we'd like to be in place.”

District and provincial leaders listen to a Ministry of Finance official. The workshop introduced the Commanders Emergency Response Program (CERP) as a budget.

District and provincial leaders discuss a solution to a budgeting scenario intended to familiarize them with the new program.

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IRAQI STORIES:

DVIDS

Social Science: Saving Lives

Story by Staff Sgt. Chanelcherie DeMello

Julianne Ivany, Human Terrain Analysis Team-South, social scientist; Ali Al-Saady, HTAT-S human terrain analyst, and Farida Samano, women’s initiatives military advisor, gather with a local Iraqi family to discuss area assessment, women’s initiatives, and education analysis during the team’s Sept. 18 mission.

BASRA – HTAT-S, birthed from a larger org. called the Human Terrain System, has been stationed in Basra since 2008. The team’s overall mission is to assist USD-South cmdrs, by providing insight into the population and its culture, in order to enhance operational effectiveness, and reduce civilian and military conflict.

“We talk to the people in the community, the regular guy, the average Joe,” said Dr. David Ronan, HTAT-S team leader, and a 32-year Army veteran. “We try to keep our finger on the pulse of the population,” said Julianne Ivany, HTAT-S’ Social Scientist.

The American Anthropological Assoc. published a statement opposing HTS and its teams, denouncing the program in October 2007, with concerns that it could lead to compromise of ethics, endangerment of research subjects, and a disgrace to anthropology as an academic discipline.

Conversely, the mission provided no proof to the concept that the Iraqis beliefs were bargained or threatened. As HTAT-S visited the towns of Basra, they collected valuable data by asking simple questions such as, “What opportunities do women of Iraq have today?” and “How do you think we can help bring better education to your area?”

“The division needs to know what people on the streets are thinking, feeling and doing,” said Ivany. “It’s fascinating to talk to local Iraqis; there's so much value in every person’s story.”

"HTAT-S does a lot of research that most U.S. Army soldiers aren’t trained to do," said Lt. Col. Michael Parr, USD-S dep. effects coordinator. They facilitate ways to improve what's currently going on in Iraq, and what we could do to help the people of Iraq.

For HTAT-S, it’s not just about data collection; it’s about making others understand the big picture. "It’s about getting to know new people, and having moments, where, in the context of a relationship you can connect on a very human level," Ronan said.

"The greatest satisfaction comes when we have a really good mission from start to finish," Ivany said; "when we go out and get really good interviews, and our reports and briefs all come together to reflect a positive effect. “Team Effects couldn’t do what we do, and the division couldn’t do what they do, if it wasn’t for their input and analysis,” said Parr. “HTAT-S is a huge asset to our team.”

While the HTS program is criticized as being “mercenary anthropology” that exploits social science for political gain, Ronan and his team believes that they're ultimately saving lives, because in the end it prevents a lot of damage, and creates clear understanding to alleviate a lot of fear.

A group of local Iraqis gather around Benjamin Ryan, HTAT-South, human terrain analyst, as he raises questions about education opportunities for the people of Iraq.

Benjamin Ryan and Frank Shorees, HTAT-S interpreter, listens as a local Iraqi expresses his opinions on education in Iraq.

Julianne Ivany and Farida Samano discuss the opportunities for women and young girls.

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USF-I

Iraqi Police orphans and widows receive donations

Story and photos by Pfc. Emily Knitter

Army Capt. Page Brooks, a chaplain with the Louisiana NG, and Maj. Gen. Al-Shelby, cmdr. of the Baghdad Police HQ, hand out bags of clothing, toys and hygiene items to the orphans of fallen IP officers in Baghdad, Sept. 14, 2010.

BAGHDAD — Women and children sat on a long row of black couches as IP officers and U.S. Soldiers carried overflowing bags into the room. Some of the children stared at the bags intently, hoping for a glimpse inside. But, a few children with sad eyes, sat next to their mothers, uninterested in the commotion. They were a solemn reminder of why everyone was gathered. These women and children are the widows and orphans of fallen IP with the Baghdad Police HQ, killed in the line of duty during recent months.

Soldiers with 1st Det, 94th MP Co, 1st Advise and Assist Bde, 3rd ID, partnered with the Baghdad Police HQ to give these family members bags full of clothes and toys, during a ceremony, Sept. 14.

The police officers, also known as the Patrol Police, are stationed around the city to provide security near highly congested areas, businesses and mosques. "The IP officers have an extremely dangerous job," said 1st Lt. Eric Giles, asst ops officer for the Baghdad Police Advisory Team (BPAT), and a team leader with 1st Det., based out of Saco, Maine. "When the BPAT was talking to the IP, we learned that they've a number of officers killed in the line of duty who left widows behind. One of the things the Patrol Police do is pay that officer's salary to the family."

To augment the salary the widowed family receives, the BPAT arranged the delivery of the clothes, toys and personal hygiene supplies. "When they bring the families in to give them their paychecks, we thought it would be a great time to give the families a little something extra from the people back in the U.S.," Giles said. "We've built such a good relationship with the IP command, that we can make this happen."

When the BPAT approached Patrol Police officers about donating the supplies, the idea was immediately approved and org. began. "In every occasion, we try to find an opportunity to appreciate our fallen, and what they gave up in order to provide security for Baghdad, and to protect our citizens," said Maj. Gen. Al-Shelby. "We also try to follow up with the families to make sure they get all the benefits."

The items given to the families were collected through donations from people back in the U.S., and Soldiers here in Iraq. "Especially now that we've progressed to Op New Dawn, this mission offers us a purpose for being here," said Capt. Page Brooks, one of the key organizers of the event. "Now that we've ended combat ops, we're getting down to the very personal needs of the Iraqi people, in order to encourage them."

Once all the bags were carried into the room, some of the Soldiers were asked by Al-Shelby to personally hand the bags to the widows and orphans. Capt. Armando Carbajal, the BPAT ops officer, was called forward as a young boy and girl walked forward timidly. Al-Shelby explained that their father had been the same rank as Carbajal, when he was killed. A police officer back in the U.S., Carbajal also has 3 children of his own. "When I walked up there I immediately thought of my own son and what he would have felt," Carbajal said. "I had no idea that the general was going to call me up there, but I wanted to give those kids something tangible, because I know if someone did that for my own son, it would have made a huge difference."

Carbajal took the rank off the front of his uniform and handed it to the boy. "Being a police officer, I have attended many memorial services like that, and I know how important it is for those kids to have something to hold onto, and remember their father," he said. "Since I am also a captain, I wanted the boy to know the mutual respect that is held between 2 cops, and also that the U.S. forces and his father were on the same team."

Fifteen families were presented gift bags during the ceremony. Each time a widow or orphan came forward to receive their bag, the appreciation in their faces was shadowed with sadness. "As a police HQ, we've 750 fallen policemen whose blood has been shed to show the stability and security of Iraq, and to protect the citizens," Al-Shelby said. "We remember them all the time."

"This has really been a great event bringing everyone together," Brooks said. "It gives us a sense of helping the Iraqi people, and I think it also lets the Iraqi people know that we're not just handing everything over to them, but that we also care about them personally after these tragedies happen. It's a great partnership between our units, the IP, and our families back home."

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USF-I

Helping Iraq fine-tune planning

Story and photo by Sgt. 1st Class Roger Dey

Lt. Gen. Majeed, cmdr. of Iraqi Ground Forces, listens to a presentation about the USF - Iraq operational planning process, at a Baghdad meeting between USF-I, Iraqi Ground Forces Command, and Iraqi Ministry of Defense future ops planners, Sept. 15, 2010.

CAMP VICTORY – A dozen generals from the Iraqi Ground Forces Command (IGFC), and Iraq’s Ministry of Defense sat at a conference table, examining print-outs of a slide displaying the orgs. that make up USF-I’s Future Ops Planning Section.

Col. David Batchelor, chief of J35 Future Ops (FUOPS) for USF-I, explained to them how the relationships depicted on the slide bring every war fighting function in the command to the table, as an operational plan develops. His goal was to show that as a plan evolves it’s vital for everyone involved in the execution of the final op to participate, from the intel officers and maneuver units, to the staff judge advocate.

Although members of FUOPS and planners for the IGFC meet often, this meeting here at Al Faw Palace, was unique in that it included the senior planning leadership from the MOD, including Gen. Abboud Gunbar, the dep. chief of staff for ops. Lt. Gen. Majeed, cmdr of the IGF, was also on hand as Batchelor and his team advised them on fine-tuning the synchronization, and synergy of the planning process between the 2 orgs.

“What we’re trying to do is to get them to see how we do it; how we take a very holistic approach. It’s not just one plan, one brief,” said Lt. Col. Michael Perkins, dep. chief of J35 FUOPS. “It’s plan a portion, brief the cmdr, get guidance, plan the next portion, brief the cmdr, get guidance,” he said.

Perkins said they're also working to help the MoD improve their parallel planning with subordinate commands. “The major benefit is that when a plan turns into an order, everyone is already aware of it, and that makes execution a lot simpler,” he said, adding that it also gives subordinate units a chance to provide input, which helps the planners know that they're creating a plan that's feasible and suitable.

“In 2005 we didn’t have that kind of responsibility, and now we're taking responsibility and are advancing our capabilities through training,” said Staff Brig. Gen. Husain, the dir. of planning and training for the IGFC.

Perkins has a very positive outlook on the future of Iraq’s military planning, and thought that the meeting was a success. “It codified that the process they’re using is very similar to ours, so they know that they’re doctrinally sound, as far as course-of-action development, and how a plan evolves,” he said. “It also showed them that bringing more people in as plans are developed, and sharing info, results in a solid operational plan.

Perkins said the capability of the Iraqi military is not in question, citing their success in executing the security plan for the parliamentary elections in March. The major challenge now is in helping them develop consistency in their joint planning, as well as their ability to develop plans at a rate on par with the operational tempo they're facing.

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Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/9-23

Dear Interested Reader,

Commandos get a look at TF Rakkasan election security coordination at TOC. TF Iron Rakkasan supports elections in Ghazni Prov. Doctors treat child wounded in election violence. If you break it, we'll fix it, at FOB Tillman. Voices of moderate Islam attendees return from their journey.

Iraq: 68th AR adapt mission mindset to Advise and Assist in Nasiriyah. 'Beasts' use machines to clear the way in Dhi Qar prov. U.S. advisor to the MoI changes from military to civilian led.

Joanna

__________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Commandos get a look at TF Rakkasan election security coordination

Story and photo by Army Sgt. Brent Powell

Army Maj. Mark Leslie (left), ops officer, 3rd Bde, 101st AD, and Staff Sgt. Mitchell Burns, battle captain, show ANA commando leaders points of interest on a computer screen at the brigade’s tactical ops center (TOC), Sept. 18.

KHOWST PROVINCE – For the 4th time in recent history, thousands of Afghans turned out to polling centers across the country, Sept. 18, to vote for their future leaders. To help ensure that the elections would be successful CF, ANSF and govt officials throughout Afghanistan planned and prepared for the election during the past several months.

On Election Day, one example of that cooperation was evident at the headquarters of TF Rakkasan’s 3rd BCT. For the 1st time, members of the ANA’s elite commando forces were on hand at the brigade’s TOC to witness the behind-the-scenes ops U.S. forces use to help ensure successful missions.

“TF Rakkasan wanted to get the Afghan leadership tied in and show them what 'right' looks like during intel ops in support of their country’s elections,” said Maj. Scott Taylor, a Special Forces cmdr. “We wanted to get them more in line with intel-driven ops, and let them see first hand how the reports come in, how we do battle tracking, and how we share this info across the full spectrum.”

Three commandos spent the day at the TOC observing and learning how the U.S. forces keep an eye on the battlefield, and how they conduct their intel ops. They seemed to find the experience valuable, and used it to increase their knowledge for the future. “I’ve learned a lot here today,” said Afghan Col. Nabi, comm. officer. “I’ve learned how to effectively organize a command post like this one, how to receive and process reports, how everyone communicates with each other, how we forward info and reports to higher authorities, and how a shift change works.”

Nabi, who commands about 750 Afghan commandos, provided a quick reaction force to the 3rd BCT during the election. Nabi said that he was proud of the fact that although the insurgents conducted attacks on polling centers and FOBs during the election, their overall impact was insignificant. “The anti-governmental forces tried hard to stop the elections, but they failed,” he said. “That's a great thing. It shows the insurgents that Afghan forces and their coalition partners can defeat any kind of attack or threat.”

Nabi wasn’t the only one who was pleased with the Afghans' performance during the elections. “I’m very confident in the Afghan commandos' abilities,” said Taylor. “They've a fully operational staff, and they've proven that they can handle any contingency, including today’s election ops. This is their country, their election and they took the lead.”

Not only military members, but people from around the world kept a close eye on Afghanistan during the election process. With the election’s success many people gained a new hope for Afghanistan’s future. “Today we showed the world that we are powerful, we're in control, and we can defeat the Taliban,” said Nabi. “Today’s success will be one of my best memories.”

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

TF Iron Rakkasan supports elections in Ghazni Province

Story and photos by Army 1st Lt. R.J. Peek

Young voters in Deh Yak District here wait their turn to enter the polling center and cast their vote, Sept. 18. It wasn’t until 9 a.m., 2 hours after the polling centers opened, that the insurgents started to conduct attacks. TF Iron, who assisted the Afghan govt and the ANSF in providing security, engaged the enemy 20 times throughout Deh Yak and Andar districts.

GHAZNI PROVINCE – Leaders spent the past several weeks planning and preparing for the elections to ensure it was safe, secure, and free from corruption. “With the Afghan police and the assistance of the U.S. forces, we're confident of a well executed election process,” said Sher Khan, sub-gov. of Andar District, prior to the elections.

In Ghazni Prov., 69 male candidates competed for 9 parliamentary seats and 13 women ran for the remaining 2 seats. Ghazni Prov. experienced one of the highest levels of corruption in presidential elections last year, according to Army Capt. Scott Harris, the governance and development officer for 3rd Bn.

“The Int'l Election Committee rep. in Ghazni, and the Ghazni gov., Musa Khan, worked very hard to correct their image,” Harris said. “As future hosts of the Islamic Cultural and Heritage Center, it's important for a successful election this year.” Despite the large number of attacks by the enemy, the polling centers all remained open and in full op. These attacks resulted in no soldiers wounded and no civilians harmed. “Our American partners have provided invaluable support. With their help, Afghan govt and SECFORs have conducted a successful election in Deh Yak,” said Tufan.

Head district field coordinator, Didar, in Deh Yak District said that the voter turnout was about what he expected. “Polling sites were prepared the day prior, as polling site staff and district field coordinators moved with the ballots and elections materials from Ghazni City to the district centers, with ANSF escorts. TF Iron provided support from its units to transport the materials, and provided quick reaction force on Election Day,” Didar said.

“The Afghan people were able to voice their opinions by casting their vote without any retaliation from the insurgents,” said Army Lt. Col. David Fivecoat, 3rd Bn., 187th Inf. cmdr. “The polling centers were all secured and maintained as corruption free as possible,” Fivecoat added. “The ANSF and the Afghan govt accomplished a great victory today.”

Deh Yak’s police chief, Haji Tufan, prepares to cast his vote, Sept. 18 at the Ramak Mosque polling center.

A polling center employee punches the registration card to verify the vote, for Haji Tufan, who cast his vote as a demonstration for others, of how to complete the process.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Doctors treat child wounded in election violence

Written by Army Sgt. Spencer Case

ANA doctors and nurses tend to the wounds of an 8-year-old mortar attack victim at the Ghazni Regional Hospital, on FOB Thunder, Sept. 18. The child was transferred to a French hospital for further pediatric care. (Photos by AF Staff Sgt. Jason Colbert, Combined Joint TF-101 PA)

PAKTYA PROVINCE – An Election Day mortar incident that injured 2 children gave the ANSF a chance to show they'd improved coordination among military and civilian hospitals. The drama began at approx 10 a.m., when insurgents in Kharwar District, Ghazni Prov., began a firefight with CF. During the crossfire, a mortar landed on a house, injuring 2 children. An 8-year old suffered a shrapnel wound to the head and his 12-year-old cousin received less serious shrapnel wounds to the lower extremities.

The father of the younger boy, who was also the uncle of the elder of the village, happened to be a doctor. After he cared for the boys, and saw that they needed more complex care than he could provide, he drove them to a nearby CF installation, COP Kharwar.

That afternoon, Army Brig. Gen. Stephen Townsend, the dep. cmdr of Combined Joint TF-101, visited COP Kharwar to attend security briefings related to the elections. While he was outside the wire at a nearby polling center, he learned of the incident through an interpreter. A medical evacuation request was being placed to take the 2 injured children to a higher care center. Townsend decided it would be quicker to take them on his Black Hawk helicopter.

“It just so happened that we were going anyway, so we decided to take them with us,” Townsend said. “We’ve done this kind of thing before.” At about 4:40 p.m., Townsend’s helicopter touched down on the helipad near the ANA-run Paktya Regional Medical Hospital at FOB Thunder, Paktya Prov.

“I'm very glad and appreciate that the Americans have taken care of my son,” said the injured boy’s father, whose name is withheld for security reasons. “I did not expect we would go the medical facility by helicopter.” AF physician Maj. Robert Sarlay Jr., an advisor to the hospital with the Medical ETT, mentored the Afghan physicians who provided care to the younger child in the emergency room.

Although doctors were able to stabilize the child’s condition to a “stable, but guarded” level, the child needed to be examined by a neurologist. For this, a patient transfer was needed. "Traditionally, hospital-to-hospital communication has been one of the biggest hurdles of the Afghans," said AF Lt. Col. David Gill, the FOB Lightning METT cmdr. Fortunately this time, the system showed signs of progress.

Arrangements were made by the National Military Hospital in Kabul to transfer the child to nearby Indira Gandhi Children’s Hospital in Kabul. That hospital later determined that they were unable to provide the needed level of care to the child, and so he was sent instead to the French “Role 3” hospital at Kabul Int'l Airport.

“We had good communications with our counterparts at the Military National Hospital in Kabul, and the hospital cmdr. at Paktya Regional Medical Hospital communicated well with his counterpart at the Military National Hospital,” said Gill.

Sarlay added, “getting the ANSF, the ANA in this case, to coordinate and cooperate with the civilian Ministry of Health system, for these civilians to get appropriate definitive medical care is incredible. When I first got here, I would've laughed if you had told me we could do something like this.”

As of the evening of Sept. 19, the 12-year-old remains in the intensive care unit at the Paktya Regional Medical Hospital. The 8-year-old is at the French Role-3 Hospital in Kabul with his father. He remains in “stable, but guarded” condition.

An Afghan National Army doctor checks the breathing of an 8-year-old mortar attack victim, while AF physician Maj. Robert Sarlay watches him work at the Ghazni Regional Hospital.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

If you break it, we will fix it

Written by Army Spc. Luther L. Boothe Jr., TF Currahee

FOB TILLMAN – After just a few short weeks in country, mechanics from TF Currahee, Co S, 2nd Bn, 506th Inf Regt, 4th BCT, 101st AD, have a clear understanding of their role to ensure FOB Tillman is combat effective, Sept. 20. "The truth of it is, when something breaks, these mechanics are the Soldiers called to fix it," said Army Pfc. Salvador Cabrales, a wheeled mechanic.

“We're a small section on a small FOB, but the 3 of us have all taken on the mentality that no matter what breaks, we'll try to fix it for the better of those around us,” said Army Pfc. Christina Nelson, a quartermaster and chemical equipment repairer. With that mentality, the young Soldiers have taken on any task asked of them, regardless of their job training.

“We work on humvees, Afghan supply trucks, wreckers, MRAP vehicles, and generators,” said Pfc. Michael Adams, a wheeled mechanic. “The mechanics pretty much work on anything that is mechanical.”

The Army trained the Soldiers on specific equipment, but that hasn't discouraged them from taking on the task of repairing something they've never worked on, or in some cases, even seen before. Since the team is comprised of wheeled-vehicle mechanics, they usually "only work on things with wheels, but in Afghanistan, that isn’t the case," said Adams. Sometimes they may not know how to fix something, but they'll find the proper training manual, or any other reference or instructions to make the repairs. “We've yet to come across anything we haven't been able to fix,” said Cabrales.

Even with an already large tasking, the maintenance Soldiers have all found ways to contribute to the fight beyond normal expectations. “I've taken on the task of doing the morning refueling rounds,” said Cabrales. “It's one of the most satisfying thing I do, because I know what I'm doing is keeping the FOB operational. I also get to interact with the local population a little bit.”

“Last week I fixed a water heater being sent to another FOB,” said Nelson. “There's a real sense of pride and accomplishment when you know that after you put hard work into something, like a water heater, somebody at another FOB is going to get to take a hot shower out here for the first time, because of what you did.”

Though they're all committed to accomplishing whatever the mission requires, there are many challenges to working in Afghanistan. “Sometimes it's been difficult to find the right parts or manuals for the equipment that we have to fix,” said Cabrales.

"The terrain has also proved to be quite the challenge," said Adams. It's really rough on the drive train of the vehicles, and 90% of all repairs have been a result of terrain damage.

'Some of the normal conditions a mechanic might have are not what the 3 mechanics have currently," said Nelson. “We don’t have a concrete pad to slide a creeper underneath a vehicle, so sometimes you just have to lay on the rocks and dirt and take your bruises to get the job done.”

Having accomplished a significant amount of work already, the Currahee mechanics have discovered a sense of pride and camaraderie, found only in working together for a common goal. “I'm proud to do my job, and to be a part of a group that is dedicated to keeping the mission going,” said Cabrales.

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DVIDS

Voices of Moderate Islam Attendees Return

Story by Staff Sgt. Bruce Cobbledick, TF Bayonet PA

CF from TF Nashmi, a Jordanian Ranger Bn, and Sky soldiers from the 173rd Abn BCT welcome home participants of the Voices of Moderate Islam program, Sept. 13. The pilgrims later gathered to discuss their journey, which was an initiative sponsored by U.S. Embassy Kabul, U.S. Embassy Amman, and in partnership with the Jordanian Hashemite Charity Org.

LOGAR PROVINCE – TF Bayonet partnered with TF Nashmi as 34 local Afghan leaders returned to Afghanistan. The returnees earned the title hajji, from their journey to Amman, Jordan, and Mecca, Saudi Arabia, as participants in the Voices of Moderate Islam initiative.

The VoMI initiative, the first of its kind, gave participants the opportunity to see first-hand how Islam is practiced in Jordan, affording them a chance to change dialogue among Afghans, and share their insights with friends and family.

The VoMI attendees began their trek 3 weeks prior at FOB Shank. They were transported to Amman, Jordan, for the 2nd phase of the program, a comprehensive seminar experience with a focus on exposing attendees to Islam in a modern Jordanian society.

Orchestrated by the leaders at TF Bayonet and TF Nashmi, the Jordanian Ranger Bn attached to TF Bayonet, the initiative seeks to expand the understanding of the participants, and give them an opportunity to experience how Islam is practiced outside of Afghanistan.

When the participants arrived back at FOB Shank, they shared their experiences with int'l and local media. Three pilgrims spoke at length about their journey. “Religion is good, but we don't want the insurgents to misuse Islam to commit crimes and acts of violence,” said Sher Abass, a VoMI participant. “We've seen first-hand from our 2nd home in Jordan, and have come to appreciate this life we have, and we see the need to end the violence and fighting among ourselves.”

Another participant, Abdul Hakeem, said, “We've brought a message back from our Jordanian brothers … to enjoy this life and to stop killing each other here in Afghanistan.” Jordanian Col. Aref Alzaben, who commands TF Nashmi, said, “In my country, we have both Christians and Muslims living together, as brothers, a secure country working for civilization.

“When I came here 2 months ago, I saw the children of Afghanistan. They're looking for education, and to improve their lives. We need to work together with other Islamic countries, and stop the madness. We cannot promote the violence.

“Terrorists all over the world justify violence in the name of Islam. That's something which Islam prohibits. Killing innocent people is wrong,” said Alzaben. “We know from the Quran that we all as Muslims, our big challenge is to follow our religion in the proper way. It's important to have respect for other religions. We don't want the insurgents to get away with violence in the name of Muslim religion.”

The experience included visits to significant culture sites common to Islam, Judaism and Christianity. “I want to challenge you all here today who made this journey, to bring 5 of your close friends back here, so that we can share with them your experiences, and move into the future and continue to learn together,” said Col. Jim Johnson, TF Bayonet cmdr.

“As you left on this journey, most of you left as strangers to each other. Now you returned as brothers,” added Maj. Matthew Yandura, coordinator of the event. “People from all walks of life can come together.”

Voices of Moderate Islam participants and Afghan/ CF assemble. As part of the experience, the pilgrims shared with the media what they learned about tolerance and modern Muslim life.

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IRAQI STORIES:

USF-I

Infantrymen Adapt Mission Mindset to Advise and Assist

Story by Capt. Joshua Hunter

NASIRIYAH – During their current mission in southern Iraq, the Soldiers of Co A, 1st Bn, 68th AR Regt, have had little trouble adjusting their mission mindset from a combat focus to advising and assisting the ISF, Sept. 10.

“As an inf. co., Attack Co is perfectly suited to fulfill the required role to advise, train, and assist the IA and IP as U.S. forces transition out of Iraq,” said 1st Lt. Mario Ponsell, fire support officer. Attached to TF Pacesetter, 3rd Bn, 29th FAR, Attack Co., has one organic inf. plt., a mortar plt., and a company HQ plt. These 3 elements all have critical roles, ensuring their ISF partners are properly prepared for all situations.

The 2nd Plt, Attack Co, under 1st Lt. Grant Hewins, has 3 simultaneous missions. The 1st is providing security to the Stability Transition Team (STT) advisors that work in the Dhi Qar Provincial Joint Coordination Center in Nasiriyah. The 2nd is to assist the STTs with maintaining situational awareness with the Dhi Qar IP while sharing mission-critical info. “We serve as a liaison between the TF and the Dhi Qar IP, while continuing to encourage the IP in their drive towards police primacy in the region,” said Hewins.

Recently, the Dhi Qar riot control unit successfully put this training to use, as they peacefully stopped 2 potentially dangerous riots in downtown Nasiriyah. Hewins’ plt. also facilitates movement of the STT and Civilian Police Assistance Training Team (CPATT) to advise and assist other IP stations throughout the prov.

“The relationship we have with our IP partners is a prime example of the current relationship between U.S. forces and ISF in the closing chapter of OIF. The IP perform the majority of the security ops, previously performed by U.S. forces,” said Hewins. The Mortar Plt, Attack Co, under Capt. Michael Noel, is also partnered with the Dhi Qar IPs, but in a different environment. Their primary mission is to escort members of the CPATT to the Dhi Qar IP Regional Training Center (RTC).

The police trainers advise and assist the RTC to ensure that its courses meet the standards provided by the Iraqi Ministry of Interior. The CPATT has years of civilian police experience from the U.S. in different backgrounds, and is ideally suited for the police advisory role.

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DVIDS

‘Beasts’ Use Machines to Clear the Way

Story by Staff Sgt. Christopher Jelle

Pfc. Seth Jones, a combat engr, Co Echo, 1st Bn, 8th Inf Regt, 3rd BCT, 4th Inf Regt, tests the functions of the TALON robot before a route clearance mission along MSR Tampa, Sept. 3. The robot is used to safely probe for and interrogate suspected explosive devices.

DHI QAR PROVINCE – Denying the enemy of opportunities to place explosives is the focus and mission for the soldiers of Co E, 4th ID. The roads and routes of Iraq are patrolled every night by soldiers and their high-tech equipment, to help ensure the safety of U.S. and ISF.

“Beast” Plt, Co E, performs a route clearance mission multiple times a week with 6 vehicles outfitted with cameras, probing arms, remotely operated weapons, and high-powered spotlights. Five of the vehicles are variants of the proven MRAP vehicle, while the smaller, but still heavily-armored Husky, resembles an MRAP fused with a tractor.

“Route Clearance has changed dramatically since my last 2 deployments,” said Sgt. 1st Class Byron Flakes, plt. sgt., Beast plt, Co E, attached to 3rd Bn, 29th FAR. “Now we actually have the means to interrogate with the Buffalo, the Husky, and the TALON robot.”

The Husky is a one-person vehicle that travels out front, and acts as the first method of detection for potential ambush points. Using a camera with thermal imaging, it can detect heat signatures and traces of body heat on objects on the side of the road. This info helps the Soldiers find objects recently placed on the side or the median of the road, and distinguish possible threats.

The arm attached to the Husky can be used to investigate small and suspicious objects, but heavier debris calls for a little more muscle. The Buffalo’s remote manipulator arm is used to sweep, push, and lift debris out of the way, to either investigate a threat or move it to a safer location, to prevent its use as cover for a possible IED. The arm also has a spur, resembling a bird’s talon, which can root around to look for wires or attached devices buried in the dirt and sand.

Pfc. Nicholas Bolchalk, the main operator for the manipulator arm, says he enjoys operating the arm because it’s like using a giant robotic Lego set. “It’s actually kind of neat, and then to know that you’re actually helping soldiers and preventing IEDs from going off – well, there’s a lot of pride in this job,” he said.

It isn’t always practical or possible for one of the integration vehicles to inspect a potential threat. That's where smaller remote devices like the TALON robot come in. With its small and lightweight design, under 100-lbs, the tracked robot can move off-road and around immovable obstacles. Using 4 cameras, the soldier operating the device can get a close-up view of the target. The TALON also has a movable arm that can sweep, pick-up, or drag an object to a safer location without exposing the soldiers to further risk. “It’s kind of like playing a video game,” said Sgt. Robert Antoff, the main TALON operator. “You get to use a joystick, and you sit there and watch the screen. It’s a lot of fun to use.”

So while the unit’s main objective is to reduce the enemy’s IED emplacement window, it remains fully capable to find and disable the ones that do. Sgt. Kevin Sosa, combat engr said that he enjoys actually finding and clearing the hazards, because it’s one less IED to worry about. “It’s always a good day when you don’t find anything, but it’s a better day when you do,” said Sosa.

The remote manipulator arm, operated by Pfc. Nicholas Bolchak, combat engr, flips over a plastic pallet, and probes a piece of training debris during a functions check before being used for a mission later that evening.

The soldiers of ‘Beast’ Plt, listen during a pre-mission brief as Sgt. Kevin Sosa reviews safety drills and procedures.

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Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/9-21

Dear Interested Reader,

Leatherneck compound dedicated to fallen Marine Capt. Trevor Yurista. Chiefs pinning ceremony at Kandahar Air Field. Afghan forces secure election. NATO training Soldiers by tens of thousands. RPA provides Soldiers bird's eye view of battlefield.

Iraq: A Soldier's profession becomes a family man's motivation. Unmanned Aerial Systems help in intel gathering at COB Garry Owen. 354th MP Co. mentors IP at COB Basra.

Joanna

___________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

DVIDS

Leatherneck Compound Dedicated to Capt. Trevor Yurista

Story by Cpl. Brian Gabriel Jr.

Maj. Gen. Richard Mills, RC-SW cmdr, presents a plaque commemorating Capt. Trevor Yurista, during a dedication ceremony at Camp Leatherneck, Sept. 13. Following opening remarks, Mills gave a speech in honor of the fallen Marine. Yurista served 2 tours in Iraq before volunteering for Afghanistan 3 months later in August 2008. Already selected for promotion, Capt. Yurista was posthumously promoted and awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with a combat distinguishing device.

(Official Royal AF Photos by Sgt. Martin Downs)

CAMP LEATHERNECK — Maj. Gen. Mills dedicated a newly-built compound, which will house the RC-SW intel directorate, and be known as the Capt. Trevor Yurista Center.

On October 27, Yurista volunteered in an op to raid and destroy a major IED factory in Now Zad. During the op, he was involved in a firefight that lasted more than 4 hours, which resulted in the destruction of the IED factory. While returning to COP Now Zad, Yurista’s convoy came under enemy fire again. While directing his vehicle to provide return fire, his vehicle struck a roadside bomb, mortally wounding Yurista.

Mills gave a speech in honor of Yurista at the dedication ceremony following opening remarks. “I remind you that Capt. Yurista had just returned from the 2nd of his tours in Iraq,” Mill said. “He could easily have sat this one out. He could have stayed with his family, and contributed from back home, but instead, like all Marines, he wanted to be in the fight. He wanted to go to the sound of the guns.”

Maj. Scott Westerfield, RC- SW intel EO, also spoke about Yurista’s character and his dedication to the Corps. “Everybody that knew him personally was really struck by his commitment to be involved, to be where the action was, and to support his Marines,” Westerfield said. “It’s unfortunate that in answering the call-to-arms, and literally fulfilling his goals, he met an untimely end.”

Emphasizing the ultimate sacrifice Yurista made for his Marines and his country, Mills said he was proud to dedicate the new building to the memory of the fallen Marine. “He went forward because the Marines in the front needed his leadership,” Mills said. “For his leadership, his dedication, his esprit-de-corps, we will honor this fallen warrior who so embodied the spirit of the Marine Corps.”

Marine and British leadership pause for a moment of silence during a dedication ceremony for Capt. Trevor Yurista.

Maj. Scott Westerfield speaks during a ceremony, dedicating a new compound to Captain Trevor Yurista.

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ISAF Regional Command South

Chiefs Pinning Ceremony at Kandahar Air Field

Photos by Petty Officer 1st Class Thomas Coffman

KANDAHAR AIR FIELD - Teresa Alvarez, chief select, 3rd Naval Construction Regt leads the FY 2011 Chief Petty Officers Class 117 to the Chiefs pinning ceremony at Kandahar Air Field, Sept. 18.

Chief Petty Officer Terrina Weatherspoon sings the national anthem during the Navy Chiefs pinning ceremony.

Chief Petty Officer Teresa Alvarez receives her anchors and new 8 point cover with Navy fowled anchor.

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NATO Training Mission Afghanistan

Afghan Forces Secure Election

Story by Lt. Joseph Holstead

At election night joint press conference, the Minister of Interior Bishmillah Mohammady thanked the people of Afghanistan for a successful parliamentary election, Sept. 18. The minister stated that "the enemies of Afghanistan used every resource to hurt the process - propaganda, threats. But, once again, the Afghan people successfully thwarted their attempts and voted." There were 5,355 polls open for this election and 3,642,444 Afghans cast their votes, 40% of registered voters, according to IEC. The minister continued to praise the determination of the Afghan people. "Congratulations to the people of Afghanistan who today exercised their democratic right to vote. Congratulations also to the GoA, police, and soldiers who bravely secured the Afghan people's right to vote."

KABUL - “There's no doubt that security was better this year. We had more Army and Police who were better trained, more int'l forces, elaborate planning, and coordination based on lessons learned,” said Minister of Defense Abdul Wardak. “If voter turnout is lower at this point, and there's no way to know for sure, it may be due to enemy propaganda, threatening to terrorize voters. They claimed they would disrupt the election, but the terrorists failed,” Wardak said.

The police were successful in confiscating more than 4,000 fake voter ballots. National Directorate of Security, Chief Nabeel reported that his force additionally confiscated 22,000 fake voter ballots. "NDS also arrested 19 terrorists, disrupted and arrested numerous terrorist networks, and defused 60 mines during the past 72 hours," according to Nabeel.

Each leader prayed for the police, soldiers, and civilians who were killed and the quick recovery of those wounded.

IEC Chief Manawi, MoD Wardak, MoI Mohammady, NDS Chief Nabeel, update the media following elections for the Wolesi Jirga, or lower house of Parliament.

Mohammady thanked the people of Afghanistan for a successful Parliamentary election.

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NATO Training Mission Afghanistan

Afghan Soldiers Trained by Tens of Thousands

Story by Chief Petty Officer Brian Brannon

ANA soldiers take a break from training at Kabul Military Training Center, Sept. 18.

KABUL - At any given time, up to 20,000 Afghan soldiers are honing their warrior skills to augment the ANA. The bulk of them—about 10,000 to 12,000—learn their trade at Kabul Military Training Center (KMTC). Near the base of the Hindu Kush foothills in eastern Kabul, the vast training area stretches over 22,000 acres, facilitating everything from artillery exercises to literacy training. Coalition advisors from NATO Training Mission-Afghanistan supplement Afghan instructors that forge raw recruits into battle-ready soldiers.

Afghan 1st Sgt. Fawse is a drill instructor. “I feel very good about the soldiers, and I’m training them very hard,” he says. “That way, they can defend their country and take care of the people.”

U.S. SF began training Afghan soldiers at KMTC in 2002. By 2006, int'l forces were helping train about 5,000 Afghan soldiers at a time. Now, with 15 nations providing direct expertise in key areas, the number of Afghan soldiers in training has more than doubled.

Currently, about 800 coalition advisors work side by side with some 3,000 Afghan instructors: British troops at the Bridmal Academy for NCOs; French at Officer Candidate School and the Military Instructor’s Course; Canadians at the Legal School; Mongolians and Australians at the School of Artillery; Romanians at the Team Leaders Course; and Germans at the Logistics School.

British Brig. Gen. David Paterson, the asst. comm. gen. of Combined Training Advisory Group–Army, says training is key to building the ANA’s capacity to take over the Afghan security mission. “If we don’t train the army, then there’s no transition,” he said.

Potential recruits from various areas and tribal affiliations come to KMTC, hoping to join the Afghan army. They must pass a rigorous screening process, prior to beginning the 8-week Basic Warrior Training course, that introduces them to their roles and responsibilities as ANA soldiers. The course also teaches fundamental skills such as marksmanship, rank structure, and squad-level tactics.

Advanced courses include a 4-week team leader course, a 12-week one uniform course for NCOs, and the 20-week Officers Candidate School. Private Faizuddin, an ANA recruit whose mother and father were both killed by the Taliban, said that adapting to military life at KMTC has been relatively easy for him. “The only thing that was difficult was waking up at midnight and 3 a.m.,” he said.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

RPA provides Soldiers bird’s eye view of battlefield

Story and photos by Army Sgt. Brent Powell

Army Sgt. Justin Miller, inf. team leader and Raven operator, assigned to Co A, 1st Bn, 187th Inf Regt, attaches the wings to a Raven remotely piloted aircraft (RPA), Sept. 14, as Pfc. Charles Hanson, rifleman, looks on. The Soldiers use the RPA to provide aerial surveillance and recon for the co. cmdr when needed.

KHOWST PROVINCE – Today’s battlefield is constantly changing, and keeping track of all the moving parts and pieces can be challenging to any cmdr. Fortunately, modern technology allows cmdrs to keep a sharp eye on their battle space, monitor enemy movement, and conduct effective planning to combat insurgent forces.

One of the technological tools in the cmdr’s arsenal is the RQ-11B Raven. It's a small, hand-launched, remote-controlled, remotely piloted aircraft that can provide live, up-to-the-minute battlefield intel, surveillance and recon using photos and video.

Recently, Soldiers from TF Leader’s 1st Bn, 187th Inf Regt took the opportunity to fly the Raven and check its functionality, during training ops at FOB Salerno. “The Raven is a great asset for ground cmdrs,” said Sgt. Justin Miller. “It's an aerial recon tool that cmdrs at the company level can use, when other surveillance assets are not available to them.”

It's launched by hand; thrown into the air like a model airplane. It’s powered by a small electric motor and propeller, and is capable of flying up to 6.2 miles from its launch site. It can reach altitudes up to 1,000 feet and speeds of 28 to 60 miles-per-hour. Weighing just more than 4-lbs, it carries a payload of small color-video cameras, as well as an infrared night-vision camera, that can capture still photos and video during daylight hours or complete darkness.

The Raven is also versatile. It can be remotely controlled from an operator’s ground station or flown completely autonomously by pre-programming GPS waypoints into its navigation system. Although there are numerous RPAs in use by today’s military, Miller says that the small RPA has several advantages over its larger counterparts. One advantage is its ability to get into the air quickly. “We can usually have the Raven in the air within 15 minutes,” said Miller. “It’s really light and very portable. It can even be put into an assault pack and taken on patrols if necessary,” Miller said.

Once the Raven has completed its mission, it lands itself by auto-piloting to a predefined landing point, and then gliding to the ground.

Spc. Marcos Nino, radio operator, launches an Raven RPA.

Spc. Marcos Nino (left) checks the controls of a Raven RPA, as Pfc. Charles Hanson watches.

Pfc. Charles Hanson keeps an eye on a Raven RPA.

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IRAQI STORIES:

DVIDS

A Soldier's Profession Becomes a Family Man's Motivation

Story and photos by Spc. Alice Argueta

Spc. Iram Jaramillo holds his newborn daughter, June 19, while home on emergency leave. (Courtesy Photo)

COB ADDER - All notion of time ceased when he entered a room he had been longing for: a room abundant with joy and life. Gasping to catch his breath, he stood there at last, one step closer to the soft, glistening light shining upon his frail newborn, and a lifetime to embrace her as her father.

Spc. Iram Jaramillo, a personnel security detachment gunner with HHC, 224th Sust Bde, 103rd ESC, returned home on emergency leave, June 19, to welcome the birth of his first child. Jaramillo arrived at his hometown for 2 weeks of paternity emergency leave. There, he was able to embrace his newborn daughter, Fatima, born June 19, weighing 6 lbs. and 3 oz.

He said that witnessing his daughter’s birth was a moment he had been waiting for since his marriage in Nov. of 2008 to his wife Patricia. Jaramillo proudly portrays 2 titles that many deployed soldiers have the honor of carrying: an American soldier and a father. His transition into fatherhood while in a deployed environment has impacted his role as a soldier. Every mission he executes is performed to protect and serve our country, while supporting the greater cause of freedom. Jaramillo said that he treasures every aspect that fulfills his day's mission, leading him to build a stronger bond with his family, and a bolder insight on life and liberty.

Today, Jaramillo is a proud father of his rapidly growing 2-month-old daughter. “It's indescribable, being able to see my reflection in my beautiful baby girl,” Jaramillo said. He added that he hopes to be a great example for his baby as well as be a mentor and a friend.

Jaramillo steadily integrates more time reading to his daughter and keeping in touch with his wife to make this deployment less stressful for both of them. “It 's difficult, but my wife is very supportive, and we take it day by day.” He expects, upon completion of his tour, to not only take pride in his efforts toward defending freedom, but to also share his experience in the form of a bedtime story that would make his daughter proud.

Spc. Jaramillo stands at the 224th PSD yard before a convoy escort mission, Sept. 4, at COB Adder.

Spc. Jaramillo is positioned in his gunner’s turret prior to leaving on a convoy escort mission, Sept. 4.

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DIVDS

Unmanned Aerial Systems Help in Intelligence Gathering

Story by Staff Sgt. Eli Issac

The soldiers of the launch and recovery site, Sgt. Jerrod Fox, Pfc. Bryant Rutledge, Sgt. Jason Cantrell, Sgt. Guillermo Elias, Chief Warrant Officer 2 Gregory Vasquez, Sgt. Jonathan Metts, Pfc. Brannigan Kerr, Spc. William Patterson, Sgt. Richard Whitfield, and Staff Sgt. Eli Isaac show off the RQ-7B Shadow tactical unmanned air vehicle (UAV), Aug. 24. (Army photo by Capt. Michael Knuchel)

COB GARRY OWEN –Located in the southern region of Iraq, the Tactical Unmanned Aerial Systems (TUAS) Plt, 3rd BSTB, 3rd BCT, 4th ID, plays a vital role in enabling cmdrs to make decisions in order to maintain stability throughout Maysan, by assisting in intel collection.

The TUAS mission consists of providing intel, surveillance, recon, communications, target detection, and counter-indirect fire ops. As UAV operators and maintainers, soldiers in the TUAS plt serve at both the launch, recovery and forward site.
Co-located with the 1st Bn, 8th Inf Regt, tactical ops center at COB Garry Owen, the launch and recovery site is where soldiers conduct TUAS flight ops, including pre-flight ops, launching aircraft, and landings.

“We prepare and conduct air recon missions, and operate our payload for target detection. Being able to track a target and assist soldiers on the ground gives the soldiers in the plt a real sense of accomplishment,” said Sgt. Frank Jentink, a UAV operator.

Launch and recovery site ops also rely a great deal on the expertise of the unmanned aircraft systems repairers, whose responsibilities consist of repairing the aircrafts electrical, avionics, propulsion, and fuel systems. “I wasn’t too sure what to expect when I joined the plt, but after being part of it for 5 months and knowing what we’ve accomplished, I can say that we’ve definitely contributed to the security of Iraq,” said Sgt. Jason Cantrell, UAV maintenance and repair.

At the forward site, the TUAS mission changes to planning and execution, in order to meet the cmdr’s priority intel requirements. These tasks include assisting with intel collection and dissemination, coordinating with higher and adjacent units, and creating and maintaining an operational data base, all while supervising ops and activities of the plt. “I understand the importance UAV’s play on the battlefield, and knowing that I’ve contributed is a reward in itself,” said Spc. Branigan Kerr, a UAV operator.

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DVIDS

354th MP Company Mentors Iraqi Police

Story and photos by Staff Sgt. Amanda Kobernick

Spc. John Bosecker, 354th MP Co, attached to the 3rd BCT, 4th ID, shows a member of the IA how to properly use non-lethal force at a range on COB Basra, Sept. 10.

COB BASRA – The MP squads visit police stations in the Basra prov., and provide training courses for IP officers and the IA. The training consists of crime scene mgt, room entry procedures, officer safety, and riot control. Soldiers from the 354th instruct these courses both at COB Basra and IP training centers. “Our police team’s mission is critical to the support and stability of Iraq during this transition. We're teaching them critical skills and compounding the basic skills they possess already, helping them to achieve a more effective and efficient police force in Basra,” said 1st Lt. Angela Smith, cmdr, 354th.

Based out of St. Louis, Mo., the 354th is a reserve unit, where many of the soldiers are civilian police officers back home, and can share first-hand experiences and knowledge with the IP. Having both the skills of an MP officer and a civilian police officer, is unique to the Army Reserves.

"Thus far, the IP officers are very impressed with the knowledge and skills these Soldiers have, and can relate to their experiences as civilian police officers," said Smith.

Spc. Brandon Kuhn coaches a member of the IA on firing a non-lethal riot control weapon.

Spc. Michael Rogers teaches riot control techniques.

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Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/9-20

Dear Interested Reader,

TF Falcon Soldiers receive Broken Wing award. S1 Personnel Section keep Laghman PRT running smoothly. Ballots sent to polls for Election Day. Paktya prov. preparations peak as election looms. Casting a vote in Panjshir prov.

Iraq: Football feud fosters 'Esprit de Corps' at COB Adder. Joint Contracting cmdr. visits Umm Qasr. Mechanic becomes specialized expert in 4 months at COB Adder.

Joanna

___________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

RC-East, Bagram Media Center

TF Falcon Soldiers receive Broken Wing award

Written by Army Sgt. Monica Smith

Army Col. Don Galli, cmdr of the 3rd CAB, TF Falcon, presents a Broken Wing Award to Capt. Patrick DuBois, a pilot with Troop C, TF Lighthorse, during an awards ceremony, Sept. 15 on FOB Fenty. (Photo by Army Sgt. Candice Pepple, TF Lighthorse)

FOB FENTY – Two TF Falcon Soldiers received the aviation Broken Wing Award. Chief Warrant Officer 2 Jacob Crause and Capt. Patrick DuBois, earned the award for their actions 8 months ago.

On the morning of Jan. 19, Crause and DuBois were piloting a Kiowa Warrior helicopter departing from Jalalabad Airfield. While maneuvering to provide cover for the lead aircraft, their aircraft lost hydraulic pressure, which Crause said was like “driving a humvee truck without power steering, except it's in 3 dimensions, and you can't pull over to the side of the road.”

“In our particular case, it became apparent very early on that something else was not quite right with the flight controls,” said Crause. “Moving the flight controls in one direction was about 3 times harder than moving them in the opposite direction. This is unusual, and was not the case in a previous hydraulics failure I experienced during my tour in Iraq. I realized that without the help of my left-seater, Dubois, I was going to have a very tough time getting the aircraft down in one piece.”

Crause began executing emergency procedures and regained stable-level flight in a wider valley. Together, with Dubois controlling the rate of decent and Crause controlling the direction of movement, the pilots maneuvered the aircraft back to the runway, notifying the tactical ops center of the situation.

As they neared the airfield, visibility decreased from 5 miles to half-a-mile, due to smoke and haze. With the decreased visibility and the remaining mountainous terrain before them, Crause determined to remain at altitude to provide best clearance.

The 2 pilots were able to maneuver the Kiowa Warrior, land and shut down without further incident. “The only time fear entered the equation was after we came to a complete stop, and I realized what we had just done,” said Crause. “We made a pretty smooth landing, skidding to a stop after about 50 feet. I can neither confirm nor deny that we may or may not have executed a high-five in the cockpit after we came to a safe stop.”

"I am extremely proud of both Crause and Dubois,” said Lt. Col. Thomas vonEschenbach, cmdr of TF Lighthorse. “They were truly deserving of their Broken Wing Awards, as they kept calm under the pressure of an emergency situation, by making great decisions and demonstrating great technical skill in flying their aircraft from the battlefield, safely back to the airfield. Their determination and skill personifies what I call the ‘Lighthorse Spirit’; a spirit that accepts every challenge and accomplishes every task assigned, making the most difficult look easy."

“I'm very honored to have received this award,” said Crause. “However, I hope this is my last opportunity to do so.

(From left) Lt. Col. Thomas vonEschenbach, cmdr of TF Lighthorse; Col. Don Galli, cmdr of the 3rd CAB; Capt. Patrick DuBois, and Chief Warrant Officer 2 Jacob Crause; Command Sgt. Maj. Richard Stidley; and Command Sgt. Maj. Richard Lemke, pose for a photo.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

S1 personnel section keeps Laghman PRT running smoothly

Story and photos by AF Staff Sgt. Ave Pele, Laghman PRT

AF Tech. Sgt. Cherese Holloway, Laghman PRT personnelist, explains leave procedures to fellow PRT members at FOB Mehtar Lam, Aug. 18.

LAGHMAN PROVINCE – War is a chaotic business – yet within that chaos, order must be maintained. For the Laghman PRT, that responsibility lies with the S1 shop – Army parlance for the personnel section. The S1 shop is responsible for manning, staffing, personnel movement, and the administrative and personnel needs of every warrior on the PRT. A key wartime duty of the S1 section is taking accountability during base attacks. In addition to these core responsibilities, S1 handles the mail, processes requests for leave and pass, and has volunteered to organize several morale events for the unit.

The Laghman PRT is a unique org., made up of Soldiers and Airmen from the active and reserve components, as well the Air NG and the Army NG. "Each service component has various requirements for dealing with personnel issues, which makes the S1 shop vital to ensuring administrative issues are handled properly," said Army 1st Sgt. Jonathan Carpenter, PRT 1st sgt.

Leading the S1 section is AF Master Sgt. Lovea Anderson, a Military Personnel section superintendent, stationed at Goodfellow AF Base, Texas. Anderson said that her favorite part of working in the S1 shop is the daily interaction with Soldiers and Airmen requiring S1 services. As plt sgt for the HQ element, Anderson also performs the vital base defense function of creating and managing all additional duty schedules for HQ personnel, such as tower guard duty and manning the base entry control point.

AF Tech. Sgt. Cherese Holloway, a fitness programs supervisor at Davis-Monthan AFB, Ariz., and Senior Airman Denisse Mendivil, a knowledge ops mgt troop stationed at Luke AFB, Ariz., make up the rest of the S1 team. Holloway said that it's been challenging and rewarding learning about Army culture, and their standard operating procedures. “We've been able to adapt, remain flexible and handle things well,” she said.

PRT troops said they've been very happy with service provided by the S1 shop. “When I’m out on a mission, the last thing my Soldiers or I need to be worrying about is paperwork,” said Army Sgt. Brian Henson Jr., a Laghman PRT SECFOR team leader.

AF Senior Airman Denisse Mendivil takes accountability of PRT members, Sept. 2.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Ballots sent to polls for Election Day

Photos by Army Staff Sgt. Gary Witte

KUNAR PROVINCE – Int'l Election Commission workers load boxes of ballots at the Watapur District Center, Sept. 17, the day prior to parliamentary elections, as District Sub-gov. Khan watches. The ballots, escorted by ANSF, were taken to 4 polling places throughout the district. Insurgents attempted to shell the district center with mortar fire earlier in the day, but missed. No one was reported injured in the attack.

Afghan Police officers and Int'l Election Commission workers prepare to transport boxes of ballots.

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DVIDS

Paktya Province Preparations Peak As Election Looms

Story and photos by Army Capt. Mark Steskal

Reps from several Afghan SECFOR orgs., as well as U.S. and CF met at FOB Ghazni, Sept. 12 to plan and prepare for the upcoming Afghan governmental elections.

PAKTYA PROVINCE – Planning for the Afghan parliamentary elections began in earnest about 6 months ago, and the combined arms rehearsal marked some of the final preparations for securing the safety of voters and ballots.

Hosted by members of TF Avalanche, the rehearsal allowed members of the ANSF, the U.S. Dept of State, and Afghanistan's Int'l Elections Commission to share their input regarding plans and contingencies. “The rehearsal identified strengths as well as areas upon which to focus final pre-election efforts. The overall goal is an Afghan-led security effort in support of a transparent election, with results that are acceptable to the Afghan people," said U.S. Dept of State rep Michael O'Bryon.

The lengthy and detailed rehearsal was held in a massive maintenance bay where large scale maps and terrain models helped participants visualize the ops. Speaking through translators, ANSF reps explained their locations, missions and contingency plans.

Col. Viet Luong, comm. officer, 3rd Bde, 101st AD, Fort Campbell, Ky., speaks to U.S. and CF, as well as ANSF members.

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DVIDS

Villagers Cast Their Vote in Panjshir Province

Photos by Sgt. Katryn McCalment

Villagers gather outside a polling station located in Jan Qadan elementary school, Jan Qadan village, Sept. 18, after casting their vote in the parliamentary election, only the 2nd since the fall of the Taliban in 2001. This election will determine the 249 seats of the nation's lower house of Parliament.

Villagers proudly hold up their voter registration cards and inked fingers.

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IRAQI STORIES:

DVIDS

Football Feud Fosters Esprit De Corps at COB Adder

Story by 1st Lt. Angela Fry

As Louisiana NG with the 2nd Sqdrn, 108th Cav Regt, HQ in Shreveport, La., prepare to pose for a photo with 2 Louisiana State University flags signed by the players of the 2010-2011 LSU Tiger football team, a blue and orange University of Florida Gator mug mysteriously appeared in the center of the shot.

(Army photo by Spc. Glen Baker)

COB ADDER — Despite the 120-degree temps, swirling dust storms and the distance, love for Southeastern Conference football is strong in the deployed Louisiana NG. The friendly bantering of SEC rival fans filled the air Sept. 3, as soldiers gathered to pose for photos.

Occasional echoes of “Go Auburn” and “Roll Tide” were scattered throughout the pro-LSU formation. What stood out most was the single blue and orange University of Florida Gator mug; the initial cause for the day’s events. “One of our soldiers was given a Florida Gator mug when she was stationed at Victory Base Complex with our parent unit, the 256th IBCT,” said 1st Lt. Trey White, the EO of C Troop. “That mug obviously would not sit well with a 3,600-member bde that so strongly cheers for LSU.”

White added, jokingly, “I guess it wasn’t so surprising when the mug was taken and replaced with a ransom note demanding she become an LSU fan…or else.” The soldier, who chose to remain nameless, asked her sister, Susan Avery, to send the biggest LSU flag she could find to her APO address in Iraq. “I was so surprised when she called and asked me to send an LSU flag,” said Avery. “If anything, she is ‘Miss Florida Gator,’ and there is no way she will ever cheer for LSU. I realized then that it was her intent to burn the flag in front of the brigade if her Gator mug wasn’t returned.”

The Gator mug was eventually returned to the soldier, after she was provided the opportunity to serve as personnel officer for the cav sqdrn, and relocated to COB Adder, but not after the ultimate prank was played.

“I called a close friend of ours who works for the LSU football team,” explained Avery. “He purchased 2 LSU flags and presented them to Coach Les Myles, who had the 2 flags signed by the 2010-2011 LSU Tiger football team. I knew that, as much as my sister loves college football, there was no way she could burn those flags, after those players took the time to show their support to the 2/108th.”

The love of college football, specifically SEC football, runs rampant through the State of Louisiana. It's one thing that provides esprit de corps among the sqdrn, and gives the soldiers something to look forward to on Saturdays away from home.

To show her appreciation for the support of the LSU football team, Miss Florida Gator arranged a sqdrn formation to pose for pictures with the flags, to present to Coach Myles and his team at a later date. Regardless of her appreciation for the Tigers’ gesture of support, right before the snap of the picture, the infamous blue and Orange University of Florida Gator mug appeared in the shot, directly over a signed LSU flag.

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United States Forces – Iraq

Joint Contracting commander visits Umm Qasr operations

Story by Sgt. David Scott

Brig. Gen. Camille Nichols, comm. gen., Joint Contracting Command, USF-I, at the conclusion of her tour.

UMM QASR - Brig. Gen. Camille Nichols visited with the combined forces of the Coalition Naval and Advisory Training Team at Umm Qasr, Sept. 7, to witness the latest progress at Iraq’s southernmost port.

Brig. Gen. Nichols toured Iraq Training and Advisory Mission - Navy’s Umm Qasr ops and facilities, and attended a briefing on new developments planned by former CNATT Director, Rear Adm. Scott Jones and current CNATT Director, Rear Adm. Kelvin Dixon. The visit marked Nichols’ first trip to Umm Qasr in her current posting with USF-I.

In Sept. 2008, Nichols become the 1st cmdr of the Army Expeditionary Contracting Command, a subordinate command of the Army Materiel Command, and was appointed to her current command October 30, 2009.

In partnership with the GoI, the DCG (A&T) develops professional Iraqi security ministries, institutions and forces that are capable of maintaining internal security, and defending against external threats.

Rear Admiral Jeffrey “Scott” Jones, former Coalition Naval Advisory TT Director (left), Rear Admiral Kelvin Dixon, new Coalition Naval Advisory TT Director (center), meet with Brig. Gen. Nichols.

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DVIDS

Mechanic becomes specialized expert in four months

Story and photos by 1st Lt. Seth Church

Pfc. Eric Dewitt, a wheeled vehicle mechanic with the 632nd Maintenance Co, 110th CSSB, 224th Sust Bde, 103rd ESC, and fellow automotive plt Soldiers, work in the engine bay of a vehicle undergoing an engine swap, Aug. 31, at COB Adder.

COB ADDER - Before arriving in Iraq, Pfc. Eric Dewitt, a wheeled vehicle mechanic with the 632nd had never performed an engine replacement, removed a vehicle cab, or even changed a transmission. Dewitt spent most of his time in the states performing vehicle services at Ft. Stewart, Ga., in preparation for the deployment. Now, in just a 4 month span, Dewitt is considered by his peers to be one of the best automotive mechanics available.

His improvement in such a short amount of time has greatly impressed his chain of command. “He’s taking the maintenance allocation chart for removing a Heavy Equipment Transporter cab, which is around 6 to 8 hours, and getting it done in 4,” said Chief Warrant Officer 3 Robert Devinney, a senior automotive maintenance technical expert from the 632nd. “He went from no experience with this piece of equipment to being one of the best.” Devinney thinks there's another reason for such improvement. “He has a lot of drive and motivation, and I think that plays a bigger part,” said Devinney.

When asked about his experience in the automotive maintenance shop, Dewitt added that he loves his job, and feels like he's doing something worthwhile. He's also grateful for the NCOs and civilian contractors who continue to teach him.

“I never thought I’d know how to do what I can do now,” said Dewitt. “It looks daunting to tear these engines apart, but now it’s not a big deal.” Dewitt specializes in swapping HET power packs, cab removal, and installation, and occasionally performs maintenance on the MRAP vehicle as well.

An MRAP vehicle awaits a new engine in the automotive maintenance bay.

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Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/9-19

Dear Interested Reader,

"Raider" medics treat infant with rare heart condition. Preparing for elections in Kunar prov. Qalat children happily receive new shoes. Forces clear enemy safe haven in Kandahar. Insurgent bomb maker arrested in Logar prov. Khowst PRT inspects new Spera Rd.

Iraq: Border Police train with "Blackfoot" troopers at Patrol Base Minden. Naturalized citizens use skills to benefit all. AF, Army EOD train CET to operate new equipment.

Joanna

_____________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

DVIDS

‘Raider’ Medics Treat Infant With Rare Heart Condition

Story by Spc. Breanne Pye

Spc. Samantha Romero, a medic assigned to HHC, 1st BCT, 4th ID shows Rafi his new Chemlite mobile, handmade by 'Raider' medics at the Camp Nathan Smith Medical Aid Station, Sept. 15. Rafi, a 6-month-old Afghan boy, was admitted to the Clinic, Sept. 14, for complications related to a rare congenital heart defect. He's waiting on funding to receive a life-saving cardiothoracic surgery at the Children's Hospital in Kabul.

CAMP NATHAN SMITH – The family came to the clinic because the local community lacked the resources needed to treat Rafi, who was having trouble breathing, on top of a severe heart murmur, said Maj. Jennifer LaBahn, Officer-in- Charge of the Clinic, attached to Co C, 4th BSB.

Despite being a small clinic with very little experience in pediatric care or equipment to treat a small infant, clinic doctors and physician assts. immediately provided aid, giving supplemental oxygen to Rafi to help him breathe. They also gave him antibiotics to combat an infection that was complicating his existing heart condition.

LaBahn, a Pediatric Physician explained that Rafi suffers from a condition called Transposition of the Great Arteries, which is a congenital heart defect that occurs when the large vessels that take the blood away from the heart, to the lungs, or to the body, are improperly connected.

"Though Rafi is receiving the best aid ‘Raider’ medics have to offer, he needs cardiothoracic surgery to correct his heart condition, if he's to survive," said LaBahn.
Cardiothoracic surgeons are plentiful in the U.S., but there are very few in Afghanistan who are able to perform the surgery.

While they work to find the resources necessary to get Rafi into life-saving surgery, the physicians of ‘Raider’ Bde are doing everything in their power to keep him comfortable and happy. Capt. Christopher Alden, physician asst., assigned to 1st STB, built Rafi a crib to sleep in, complete with a hand-made Chemlite and SAM-splint mobile to keep him entertained while he undergoes treatment.

“When I saw Rafi, I just thought about my own two young kids back home,” said Alden. “I have no experience to help him medically, but I thought about what makes my kids smile and laugh, and knew I had to do what I could to give Rafi the same thing I would give them.”

"Through this whole process, Rafi has brought his own bit of magic to the team of medics working in the aid station," said LaBahn. “Though most of them didn’t have much experience dealing with small children, all the medics have pulled together to research and train up for future pediatric care,” she said.

“This experience has really fostered a sense of family around here,” said LaBahn. The medics have all stayed through the night to look in on Rafi, taking turns feeding him, talking to him, and rocking him to sleep.”

‘Raider’ physicians are working with medical authorities in Kabul to find a relief org. willing to donate the funds needed to perform Rafi’s surgery at the Afghan Children’s hospital in Kabul.

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DVIDS

Afghans Prepare for Elections in Kunar Province

Story by Staff Sgt. Gary Witte

Army 2nd Lt. John Faris, the ANA liaison for Co A, 1st Bn, 327th Inf Regt, TF Bulldog, leaves the Watapur District Center, following a Sept. 15 meeting between Afghan officials and ISAF. ISAF will provide help in a peripheral role, providing assistance at area security checkpoints, and coming forward to support Afghan forces in case of insurgent attacks, during the Sept. 18 elections.

KUNAR PROVINCE – The meeting brought together the district sub-gov., reps from the local ANSF, and Army soldiers from nearby bases. The Kunar District Sub-gov. Khan said that he has encouraged area residents to participate, and is hopeful for a good turnout. He noted that there are numerous candidates in his district who are also asking voters to take part. “It’s going to be a good one,” Khan said.

Key to this will be the efforts of ANSF, with Afghan police securing polling places, and Afghan soldiers securing the areas around them. “I think it’s going to be an important moment for Afghanistan,” said Army Capt. Robert Reynolds, who commands Co A at COP Honaker-Miracle. "The election provides the Afghan public another chance to participate in their govt."

From left, Watapur District Afghan Police Chief Shah, District Sub-gov. Khan, and Capt. Robert Reynolds, discuss election security. ials hope to prevent insurgents from interfering with the Sept. 18 elections.

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DVIDS

Qalat Children Walking Proudly Thanks to ANP

Story by Sgt. Gerald Wilson

Children wait patiently as the ANP set up to pass out new shoes to the children of Qalat, as part of Eid ul-Fitr.

ZABUL - It was a sunny morning, Sept. 6 in the city of Qalat. The sound of children’s laughter could be heard emanating from the sandlot in the town square. Some of the local children had gathered to play one of their favorite games, Cricket. Suddenly, the game came to a halt as several ANP vehicles pulled onto the field. The mission of the ANP officers on this day was not one of law enforcement, but rather one of love. As Ramadan draws to a close and folks start preparing for the celebration of Eid ul-Fitr, Afghan police officers wanted to share in the joy of giving, back to the people, by bringing gifts of new shoes to the children of Qalat.

Eid ul-Fitr is a holiday which marks the end of the Islamic holy month of fasting called Ramadan. It's a time when families exchange gifts and spend time feasting together, and sharing what they have with those less fortunate.

“In honor of Eid, we decided to give this small gift to the children,” said Maj. Kabeer, an ANP official. “It's our way of sharing prosperity with the people. We want the people of the community to know that the ANP are here to serve their needs.”

ANP Officers with the help of CF collected over 200 pairs of children’s shoes, and made arrangements for the shoes to be distributed in 2 locations. As the officers drove up to the first site, they were swarmed by smiling little faces eager to see what surprises they had in store. The ANP officers happily set up chairs on the sports field, as the children sat waiting with anticipation. Each child was brought up and sized to determine which shoes to receive. Pretty soon a hundred kids, some of whom were barefoot before, were running and playing in their brand new gifts. One young recipient was so happy in his new sandals, that he stopped to shake an ANP officer’s hand before running off to join his friends.

Maj. Kabeer of the ANP presents a young lady with a new pair of furry slippers.

A young Qalat boy waits eagerly for his new shoes from the ANP.

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DVIDS

Afghan-led Force Clears Enemy Safe Haven in Kandahar

By ISAF Joint Command

KANDAHAR PROVINCE - 9-17-10 - An Afghan and coalition SECFOR conducted a multi-day deliberate clearing op aimed at disrupting the Taliban's freedom of movement outside Kandahar City, killing 3 insurgents and detaining several more.

One of the insurgents captured was a Taliban weapons and IED facilitator who acquires and distributes mines, weapons, ammo and IED components to Taliban cmdrs operating in Kandahar City.

Afghan and CF have already detained several members of his network over the last couple of months. "These clearing ops disrupt the Taliban's decision cycle and make the area safer for its residents, said Col. Rafael Torres, ISAF Joint Command Combined Joint Ops Center dir. "Afghan and CF are fusing, focusing and synchronizing our efforts to disrupt the enemy's sanctuaries and staging areas for attacks into Kandahar City, as we work to return the city to its residents."

The SECFOR continued their effort to disrupt enemy safe havens in Kandahar prov., this time targeting an area south of Ta'bin-e 'Olya in Arghandab District, an area plagued with IED activity and populated with insurgents. Intel reports allowed the SECFOR to focus on several compounds in the area, which is known as an enemy staging area for attacks into Kandahar City.

Afghan forces used a loudspeaker to call the occupants of several compounds to exit the buildings peacefully, and then questioned the residents. At one of the compounds a known Taliban weapons facilitator identified himself to the SECFOR, and he was subsequently detained along with 2 insurgents.

During the op, armed insurgents engaged the SECFOR with small-arms and mortar fire. The SECFOR returned fire from the ground and from coalition aircraft, killing 3 insurgents. The Taliban uses intimidation and threats to force their way into areas outside Kandahar City to stage their attacks. Afghan and CF are focusing on clearing known safe havens around the city, and denying the insurgents use of these areas.

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DVIDS

Insurgent Bomb Maker Arrested

By ISAF Joint Command

LOGAR PROVINCE - Multiple intel sources and tips from local citizens led a joint ANSF and CF patrol to the location of a known insurgent bomb maker, who was arrested in Mohammad Agha District, Sept. 17.

ANS and CF surrounded the insurgent's house, and then detained him and another unknown associate without incident. The insurgent bomb maker identified himself to Afghan security and CF.

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DVIDS

Khowst PRT Inspects New Spera Road

Photos by Senior Airman Julianne Showalter

KHOWST PROVINCE - Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Gerald Rawlins stops on the Spera road project to talk to some of the workers installing drainage pipes, Sept. 14. The mountainous area is subject to heavy erosion along areas where the natural flow of water runs, so proper placement of culverts and drainage pipes is imperative for the integrity and longevity of the road.

Construction workers gather along the roadside to speak with members of the Khowst PRT. With initial setbacks due to terrain, the work on the road has recently showed increased progress.

Members of the Khowst PRT walk along the Spera road project inspecting quality and noting progress made on culverts. The road is particularly challenging for construction, due to the mountainous terrain in Dwamanda and Spera Districts.

A Khowst PRT convoy drives to a new road construction project, Sept. 14. The new road will connect Dwamanda and Spera districts, and provide a better route for Afghans who would have otherwise been isolated from the main city of Khowst and other more developed areas.

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IRAQI STORIES:

DVIDS

Iraqi Border Police Train With "Blackfoot"

By USD-S

Pfc. Sheridon Niles and Spc. Jeffery Barbosa, both with Troop B, 4th Sqdrn, 10th Cav Regt, conduct casualty treatment training with Iraqi forces, Sept. 17. (Photo by 1st Lt. Matthew Pierson)

PATROL BASE MINDEN - The Iraqi 9th Bde Dept of Border Enforcement enhanced their skills on patrolling and security ops, thanks to the advice and assistance of the "Blackfoot" troopers of Troop B, attached to 1st Bn, 68th AR Regt, 3rd BCT, 4th ID.

Some of the key points of the training were reaction to contact drills and setting up observation points, critical skills for a unit responsible for controlling what and who flows into and out of Iraq.

“The Dept of Border Enforcement (DBE) is a motivated org. eager to work with U.S. forces. Soldiers of the DBE take great pride in defending the Iraq-Iran border, and enduring the hardships of remote checkpoints, in order to ensure national security,” said Staff Sgt. Christopher Naylor, a plt sgt.

Trainers from Troop B are selected based on knowledge and experience after collaboration between DBE and ‘Blackfoot’ leadership. Since July, the cavalrymen have trained 2 companies of the 9th DBE Bde, and are scheduled to begin training a 3rd company this month.

“Enhancing the skills of the 9th Bde DBE will enhance security in USD-South, and ultimately all of Iraq. We look forward to continuing training. Our actions directly affect the citizens of the Basra prov.,” said 1st Lt. Thomas Jones, a fire support officer with Troop B.

Spc. Matthew Voight, a cav scout with Troop B, works through an interpreter to instruct a class on dismounted patrolling techniques with Iraqi forces. (Photo by 1st Lt. John Nikiforakis)

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DVIDS

Naturalized Citizens Use Skills to Uplift Iraq

Story by Spc. Cassandra Monroe

Angel Hermiz is a linguist currently working with USD-North, at COB Speicher, near Tikrit. Hermiz is a Clinton Township, Mich., native, but is originally from Kirkuk, Iraq. “Knowing the culture very well is what motivated me mostly to do the job, because I felt like I could be a great help to all of the Soldiers,” she said about her job as a linguist.

COB SPEICHER – Constitution Day, Sept. 17, often goes unrecognized but the freedoms it brings to U.S. citizens are never forgotten, and are desired by many. This week, 2 TF Marne naturalized citizens, reflect on their journey toward U.S. citizenship, and what brought them back to the Middle East to help rebuild Iraq.

Sameh Youssef, the senior analyst and cultural advisor to USD-North, first decided he wanted to move to the U.S. after graduating college and completing mandatory military service in his original country of Alexandria, Egypt. “Our country was going through a bad time economically, so I decided to find myself a new home,” he said. “I looked for an opportunity to have a future, so I decided to come to the U.S.”

Youssef became a citizen of the U.S. shortly after, lived in Clearwater, Fla., and owned an electronic security business, until he felt a higher calling to do something more. “At that time in my life, I needed to have a change,” said Youssef. “I needed to do something different. I had my own business, but I was tired of it, and needed to do something unique.”

It was after Sept. 11, 2001, when Youssef looked at the current situation of the country, and wanted to help in any way he could. Then, he heard about an opportunity to work for the GoI as a translator. “I decided to give it a shot and come over here [Iraq],” said Youssef. “I’ve been here since 2004, at the same base.”

As the comm. gen.’s cultural advisor, Youssef gives him guidance on how to communicate with Iraqis, based on their traditions and background. “I try to be an influential part in the decision making,” said Youssef.

He added that being an essential member of USD-N has been a worthwhile cause, because he's been able to see the way the country of Iraq has grown over the last 6 years he's worked here. “I think that the country has grown dramatically,” said Youssef. “When I first came here, the IA only had about 2 Iraqi bns in the whole USD-N area of ops. Right now, we have many divs., plus very good IP forces."

He also finds the partnership between the U.S. and Iraqi soldiers inspiring. “I see the hard work that our soldiers have done with our Iraqi partners,” he said. “It’s tremendous and it’s refreshing. If I leave right now, I feel like I've participated and done something small to help the U.S. in the long run, help the Iraqi people to become a prosperous country.”

Another critical member of TF Marne, Angel Hermiz, contributes her skills as a linguist for the USD-N Comm. Gen., Maj. Gen. Tony Cucolo, and also believes that her time spent advising American soldiers has been beneficial.

“Knowing the culture very well is what motivated me mostly to do the job, because I felt that I could be a great help to all of the soldiers,” said Hermiz. “When I would watch the television from 2003 to 2007, I heard many negative things, and most of it was related to mistranslation, or misadvised cultural issues. I felt like I could help with advising, and I feel that I speak good English and Arabic. I feel that I do my best in both advising in the culture, and the language.”

Hermiz and her family spent some time in Baghdad, before making the decision to finally move to the U.S. “My family and I came to the States in 1992,” she said. “We lived in 2 wars, one between Iran and Iraq, and the other being the first Gulf War. The economic sanctions affected my parents and their savings, so we pretty much lost everything. We had a great opportunity to leave Iraq and start somewhere else. So, we made it to the U.S. and have been in Michigan since.”

Hermiz worked many jobs at the beginning of her stay in the States, due to the language barrier. She went to college to learn more English, and landed a job at a civil engineering firm as an administrative asst., before becoming a linguist. The job of a linguist was being advertised everywhere, especially because there is a high number of Muslim communities in Michigan. When Hermiz saw the ads on television and in grocery stores, she knew what she wanted to do.

“When my firm started downsizing, I lost my job, so I was unemployed,” Hermiz said. “At first, I took this job for a financial reason. The pay was good and I speak both languages, but when I got to Iraq, it was totally different. I look at it as a great mission, and I'm proud to be here. As a linguist, the kinds of jobs we do are key leader engagements with high-level personnel in Iraq, like high comm. generals.”

For Hermiz, the time she has spent and lived in country since beginning her job in 2008 has been enough to notice positive differences within the country and people of Iraq. “I’ve noticed good things happening in Iraq, since I was last here,” said Hermiz. “When I was living here, it was during Saddam’s regime. The people of Iraq didn’t have that much freedom of speech, or becoming who they want to be. Everything back then was in the name of the govt. Right now, I see the people becoming more and more like themselves.”

For Hermiz and Youssef, both find the greatest value in their jobs through their services to TF Marne. “My favorite thing about my job is that I'm able to help,” said Youssef. “I try to bring something new with my briefs that I do. It’s my job for my colleagues to understand how the people here think; I believe my services will help tremendously.”

“It’s a great opportunity; I'm thankful to be able to do this level of work, because I get to work with unique individuals. It’s a great honor to work for a maj. gen. in the U.S. Army. For America, it’s the least I could give to the country that gave me and my family freedom - the freedom to choose our way of living, freedom to practice our religion with no fear, freedom to speak our opinion with no fear, and finally, for the country that gave peace,” said Hermiz.

Sameh Youssef.

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DVIDS

Air Force, Army EOD Train CET to Operate New Equipment

Story by Spc. Jessica Luhrs

KIRKUK - Each of the Iraqi policemen, with the Kirkuk IP Counter Explosives Team (CET), paid close attention to the 2 Airmen who stood in the front of the classroom, showing them how to put together and operate an ANDROS robot, which will ultimately save their lives and the lives of Iraqi civilians, Sept. 15.

These 10 IPCET are a part of a 7-day long familiarization training program, which began Aug. 25, and is facilitated by EOD Airmen, with the 506th Expeditionary Ops Support Sqdrn, and Soldiers with 38th Ordnance Co., out of Fort Stewart, Ga., currently assigned to TF Troy-North, and deployed to COB Warrior.

The purpose of the training is to assist the IPCET with operating new equipment, and help them prepare to completely assume EOD duties, after the withdrawal of U.S. Forces from Kirkuk.

The new equipment is being provided by the Iraq Ministry of the Interior and includes multiple bomb disposal suits, a disruptor, an exploder, X-Ray unit, bomb trailer and 3 Andros HD1 robots; the IPCET will receive the equipment during their training.

AF Tech. Sgt. Jason Luckenbach, an EOD team leader, said he was very impressed with the IPCET. "The level of knowledge the IPCET displayed today makes the EOD confident this area will be left in good hands," he explained. “These tools and this training will give the IPCET a capability to disarm IED’s and do so safely, saving many lives,” said Luckenbach.

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Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/9-18

Dear Interested Reader,

Kunduz City Orphanage receives gifts from Soldiers. Soldiers rehearse Afghan elections plan at Salerno. 1st LAR Marines patrol, meet the neighbors. American/Polish SECFORs foster learning, friendship. Team Kunar pulls together to save a life.

Iraq: Girl's alertness thwarts terrorist attack. PRT iftar dinner at Camp Ramadi. Brothers serve together as medics at COB Adder.

Joanna

___________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

DVIDS

Kunduz City Orphanage Receive Gifts From Soldiers

Story by Spc. Blair Neelands

During a visit to the Kunduz City Orphanage, Capt. Tony Hampton of 1st Bn, 87th Inf Regt from the 10th Mtn Div’s 1st BCT, gives a coloring book and a box of crayons to 2 orphaned boys, Sept. 7. Hampton and soldiers of Charlie Co brought clothing and candy donated from orgs. and families in the U.S. for the children, to celebrate Eid ul-Fitr, the end of Ramadan.

KUNDUZ – As the Ramadan observance comes to a close, the people of Afghanistan begin a celebration known as Eid ul-Fitr. Commonly, children receive gifts such as new clothes or candies to mark the end of the Islamic holy month of fasting.

The many children at the Kunduz City orphanage do not normally have the opportunity to take part in this celebration. “It’s customary in this country for children to receive gifts, clothing and candies, so they can also have a celebration during this holiday,” Hampton said. “I wanted to help those children celebrate and brighten up their day.”

Numerous boxes of clothing, shoes, toys and stuffed animals were given to the orphans. Hampton said he contacted many different orgs. in the U.S. who dug in their own closets, or spent their own money to buy supplies. “I've been receiving clothing and toys and shoes and socks from places all over the U.S.,” he said. “Many of those clothes were from people’s closets that their children can no longer wear. Instead of throwing them out, give them to some children who will appreciate receiving them.”

During the visit, Hampton and 1st Lt. Steven Solaja, a plt leader with C Co, spoke to the director of the orphanage about their needs. “The director kept saying his desire is to teach these kids so they don’t grow up and join the Taliban, and that they have an opportunity to pursue wanting to be a doctor or a teacher,” Hampton explained. “But, they have all those children and no room to teach them in; that really struck me.”

Outside the school, no playground equipment can be found. Hampton hopes the soldiers of 1-87 can help him build a swing set for the children to play on. “They don’t even have a playground to play on,” he said. “Children just want to be children. If we could give them a simple swing they can do that.”

Right now, his main focus is to provide funds for the orphanage to buy food for the children, and to buy fuel for the employees of the orphanage to travel to and from work. Although he cannot provide fuel himself, Hampton thinks he can write various groups and ask for some funding. This way, he can present a gift to them to where they can buy the fuel.

He hopes that for the next 6 months that he's in Afghanistan, the orphanage will not have to question whether it will have fuel or not. Seeing the gratefulness and appreciation on the faces of the children when they were given a new shirt or a toy, left a big impression on the hearts of the Soldiers from C Co.

“Many soldiers are going to ask their families to send old clothes and stuff that we can give to the children,” said Hampton. “The reason I try to get soldiers involved is because seeing what other people are going through, and the conditions in which they're living in, should inspire any human being to help those who are less fortunate. I’m glad that those guys got to see for themselves what it’s like to give a gift to a child in need.”

Hampton and C Company plan to visit the orphanage at least once a month bearing more gifts before they're redeployed back to Fort Drum next year.

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RC-E, Bagram Media Center

Soldiers rehearse Afghan elections security plan at Salerno

Story and photos by Army Sgt. Brent Powell

Gov. Naeemi of Khowst Province, takes a few moments to speak with Army Maj. Gen. John Campbell, comm. gen. of the 101st AD, following a Khowst Election Combined Arms Rehearsal meeting, Sept. 15, at FOB Salerno. The meeting was held to synchronize efforts of coalition and ANSF during the upcoming Afghan govt elections scheduled for Sept. 18.

KHOWST PROVINCE – “The purpose of the meeting was to synchronize our efforts throughout Khowst Prov., to ensure a successful election,” said Maj. Mark Leslie, ops officer for 3rd Bde, 101st AD. “We not only want to ensure its success in the turnout of voters and the safe transportation of ballots, but also that it's a legitimate election, and that it’s perceived as a legitimate election to the local population. We also want the Afghan people to feel free to vote and to be able to exercise that freedom.”

Before the meeting, U.S. Army Col. Viet Luong, comm. officer of 3rd Bde, addressed the crowd and thanked everyone for their attendance and participation. “This is a historical and monumental occasion for us,” said Luong. “I’m confident in the leadership we have, and through our efforts, the Afghan people will be able to exercise their right to vote. This is going to be a great op, and I know we're going to be successful.”

One-by-one, CF members and their Afghan counterparts took turns pointing out their areas of responsibility on a huge map, and discussing their plans of action. The map, known as a terrain model, contained various points of interest such as access roads, district centers and ballot collection sites. It also showed the more than 70 polling centers spread throughout the district.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Maj. Gen. John Campbell addressed the crowd. “We expect a large turnout for this year’s election, and I've full confidence in our election plan, and in our cooperation,” said Campbell. “Our SECFOR can handle any situation that arises, and together we can ensure a successful election for the people of Afghanistan.”

Lt. Col. Richard Ullian (left), comm. officer; Gov. Naeemi; Maj. Gen. John Campbell, and Col. Viet Luong, listen in at a recent Election Combined Arms Rehearsal meeting.

Capt. Joe Malone, company cmdr, Co A, points out his areas of responsibility.

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DVIDS

1st LAR Marines Patrol Area, Meet the Neighbors

Story by Cpl. Eugenio Montanez

Marines with the Police Mentor Team (PMT) attached to Co A, 1st Light Armored Recon (LAR) Bn, talk to a village local during a patrol near COP Castle, Sept. 9. Over the past 3 months, since the PMT Marines started conducting missions in the area, they've noticed a significant drop in Taliban activity.

COP CASTLE – On a normal day Marines with the PMT teach and guide ANP, but on some occasions these Marines take on a completely different type of mission – getting to know their neighbors! “We’ve been going on patrols to get closer to the people, and have them get used to seeing us everyday,” said Cpl. Josh Shanabarger, an MP with the PMT.

The Marines patrol twice a day around the villages near COP Castle. “The locals help us out whenever they can, so we try to give something back, by providing them security and showing them that we’re here to keep them safe,” said Shanabarger.

Usually the Marines carry radios to give to the adults and candy for the children. “Most people like the gifts we give them, and in exchange they talk with us about how the village is doing, and give us info of any Taliban activity in the area,” Shanabarger said. “The children always come out to see us and follow us around.”

“We have a broadcast station here to notify the locals of any special events that we're conducting for them, or just let them know important messages,” said Staff Sgt. Randy Fegert, a training chief for the PMT. “Since we’ve been patrolling the area, the Taliban haven’t bothered these people,” said Fegert. “We're here to gain their trust and support,” Fegert said. “But, most importantly, to let them know they’re not alone, and that we're here to help them, not hurt them.”

“The Marines have been able to create a good relationship with the locals,” Shanabarger explained. “The people like having us around. They tell us that they just feel safer than ever before.”

Cpl. Josh Shanabarger gives a young boy candy during a patrol.

Marines with the PMT talk with village elders during a patrol.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

American, Polish security forces foster learning, friendship

Photos by AF Tech Sgt. JT May III, Ghazni PRT

GHAZNI PROVINCE – (Left) Army Sgt. 1st Class Vili Schwenke, Ghazni PRT SECFOR member and 1st Lt. David Bader, Ghazni PRT SECFOR plt leader, conducted M4 rifle training, while their Polish counterparts conducted Short Beryl 5.56 rifle training at FOB Ghazni, Sept. 11. Schwenke and Bader decided to conduct the training to familiarize Polish soldiers with U.S. rifles, and vice versa for PRT SECFOR members. The training started with a class and culminated on a gun range on the FOB.

American and Polish SECFOR members attend a joint weapons class.

American soldiers shoot Short Beryl 5.56 rifles at a gun range. The training was conducted by Polish SECFOR members in an effort to improve everyone’s knowledge and strengthen relationships.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Team Kunar pulls together to save Soldier’s life

Story and photos by AF Capt. Peter Shinn, 734th ADT

Navy Hospital Corpsman 1st. Class Mark Chase, who is assigned to the Kunar PRT Field Surgical Team (FST) at FOB Wright, prepares to take blood from Army Master Sgt. Donald David, a civil affairs NCO with the Kunar PRT, for immediate infusion into a seriously wounded Soldier, who needed whole blood of a particular type. Eleven members of the Iowa NG's 734th ADT, 2 members of the PRT, and 1 member of the 3rd Btry, 321st FAR, donated the blood, Sept. 15. The blood transfusions helped stabilize the wounded Soldier, and allowed him to be transported to the next echelon of medical care.

KUNAR PROVINCE – While the 555th FST had an abundance of synthetic blood products on hand, the Soldier’s wounds required him to get transfusions of his type of whole blood immediately. “He needed whole blood for the clotting factors,” said Navy Hospital Corpsman 1st. Class Mark Chase, NCO-in-charge of the FST. “Those transfusions saved the kid’s life.”

Army Master Sgt. Donald David was one of those who donated his blood. “If it’s for a Soldier, I’m here in a second because I know someone would do it for me,” David said.

Army Master Sgt. John Storey, the NCO-in-charge of ops for the Iowa ADT, also gave blood. He agreed with David’s sentiments. “What a great way to help out a brother-in-arms,” Storey said. “You don’t get very many chances in life to make a difference like this.”

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DVIDS

Ghazni PRT Visits Qarah Bagh Hospital

Photo by Tech. Sgt. James May

Navy Lt. Cmdr. Zaradhe Yach (left), Ghazni PRT senior medical officer, meets with Afghan doctors at the Qarah Bagh hospital, Sept. 13. Yach visited an emergency room, pharmacy, dentist’s office, and delivery room. The purpose of the visit was to assess the current condition, and to address the needs of the hospital.

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IRAQI STORIES:

United States Forces – Iraq

Girl’s Alertness Thwart Terrorist Attack

Story by Leslie Sabbagh

Army Capt. Daniel Rosseau, a member of the IPTT based at JSS Shield, serves in the Florida Army NG, and works as an agent with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency.

BAGHDAD -- 9-13-10 - On a sultry summer night at a popular Baghdad kebab restaurant, a young girl’s keen intelligence helped save her family from certain tragedy. Fatimah, an 8-year-old Iraqi girl, her 3-year-old sister and 4-year-old brother were waiting for their father outside a local restaurant, when another car drove up next to theirs. The passenger’s door opened, hitting the car. A teenage boy leaned out, and Fatimah heard something hit the underside of the car. The teenager, about 16 years old, pulled back into the car, shut his door and drove away.

Inside the restaurant, Daoud, a colonel in the IP force, collected the family’s take-out dinners and walked the 20' back to his car. As he got in, Fatimah told her father what happened, describing the teenager’s actions and the sound she heard. Daoud instantly recalled the security training he’d received from Iraq Training and Advising Mission Ministry of Interior Police (ITAM), and EOD advisors just a few days earlier.

Quick escape: “I took what my daughter said seriously,” Daoud said. He opened his door and lay down to check the undercarriage. “I saw it right away – directly under the driver’s seat. 'It' was a magnetically adhesive IED (MAIED) identical to the one my friend had shown me a few days earlier.”

Daoud quietly closed the driver’s door, then opened the passenger’s door and took Fatimah out. He reached through the rear window and gently pulled his younger daughter and son out of the car. He placed the children in the car of the restaurant owner, and called the Training Qualification Institute’s Op Center to report the sticky bomb.

Less than 3 minutes later, the bomb exploded, ripping through the driver’s seat and tearing jagged holes in the roof. The blast severely damaged the back seat, where the 2 youngest children had been sitting. The images he shows visitors of the damaged car are chilling. It's clear that the colonel would have been killed, and his children severely wounded or killed. More than 6 weeks have passed, and Daoud’s worry and exhaustion are obvious. He’s lost more than 30-lbs in the weeks since. The attack is always on his mind, and he constantly analyzes the events leading up to the attack. “I was test driving a new work vehicle. This was the first time the children had seen it, and they were eager for a ride,” he said.

Life savers: Following the murder of a senior IP general’s driver, ITAM Police General Counter Explosive Directorate advisors Peter Griffith and U.S. Army Capt. Daniel Rousseau, based at JSS Shield, briefed senior IP leadership on MAIEDs. For roughly 2 weeks there were attempts on some half-dozen ministry officials and their personal security details (PSD), which resulted in the deaths, or injuries, of several individuals.

"The training included instruction on types, how the bombs are commonly used, and how they're attached to vehicles and other objects. The ITAM IPTT members distributed these training materials to IP Service affairs directors and showed them captured MAIEDs," Rousseau said.

“During the string of attacks on MoI personnel in August, we discussed the sticky bomb threat with MoI personnel every day,” said Rousseau. Counter-surveillance, and counter-terrorist lesson plans were developed with IPS ops for distribution to the IPS anti-crime and PSD teams. “This training is vital to force-protection, and the protection of key MoI leaders," Rousseau said. “If a leader gets taken out with a PSD team, then what type of message does that send to subordinates and terrorists?”

The training was given to the majority of the Senior IPS Directorate members and their PSD teams – about 100 people. The ITAM IPTT stressed Iraqis practice the counter IED techniques, not only while on duty, but off duty as well. “Half the people we speak with don’t live at home due to terrorist threats. In the past few months, 3 police officers had suffered multiple attacks on their lives, and many more had friends who have been targeted over the years,” said Rousseau.

Iraqis take the lead: Future plans have the IPTT working with the ITAM Police General Counter Explosive Directorate (GCED), to encourage Iraqi-led training. With GCED advisors the Iraqis have developed an in-service briefing for senior officers on force protection and Counter-IED procedures. The first in-service briefing is scheduled for mid-October.

The Iraqis have taken the training provided by ITAM GCED and applied it to counter MAIED protocol. Another part of the counter-surveillance program actively looks for criminal surveillance, uses decoys, and uses community policing techniques and hidden cameras.

Knowing your neighborhood and knowing your neighbors is a vital part of counter-surveillance.
“We keep telling the Iraqis that they have to take back their neighborhoods, but I have those same discussing with neighborhoods in Chicago, Boston and Orlando,” Rousseau said. “The reality is, these people know we’re not going to be here 24 hours a day, and they can become victims to the very people they’re reporting – they’re scared.”

Adding to the difficulty is the Iraqi mindset – reactive rather than proactive – so teaching intel-led policing is a challenge. “We’re trying to show them how to take the next step – the proactive step. It goes far beyond force protection to how we’re going to protect our people,” Rousseau said. “It’s showing them how to avert rather than react to crises. We would like the Iraqi GCED to take the initiative, and have the MoI direct that this type of training be given to all IPS officers,” Rousseau said.

As for Daoud, he couldn’t be prouder of Fatimah adding, “she saved our lives. She’s my hero.”

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Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq

PRT Iftar Dinner at Camp Ramadi

Photos by Pfc. Gary Silverman

CAMP RAMADI - Al Anbar Province PRT members Patrice Johnson and Justine Ruggio discuss matters with an Iraqi women at the Iftar, breaking of the fast dinner, in Ramadi, Sept. 1. PRT Contractors, U.S. Soldiers with 4th Bde, 3rd ID, and local civilian leaders of Ramadi and Al Anbar prov., shared Iftar in support of Op New Dawn.

Army Col. Wesley Jennings, Comm. officer with Anbar Police Directorate Stability TT, discusses matters with local Iraqi Sheikh Muhsen and Sheikh Riyadh during the Iftar.

Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Cory Weiss, Team Leader, with PRT for Al Anbar prov., and PRT member Patrice Johnson, speak with Iraqi locals.

PRT Head, Paul Fitzgerald meets with Iraqi Gov. Alfahadawi.

U.S. Maj. William Hansen with 4th Bde, 3rd ID Advise and Assist Bde., along with Gabriel Hons-Olivier, Public Diplomacy Section Head for Al Anbar prov., discuss local events with Iraqi civilians.

Al Anbar Province Gov. Alfahadawi and Paul Fitzgerald, share a meal with local Iraqi civilian leaders from Al Anbar prov.

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DVIDS

Brothers Serve Together As Medics

Story by 1st Lt. Nathan Lavy

Spc. Brian Tugmon, and Sgt. Jason Tugmon, medics with HHC, 224th Sust Bde, 103rd ESC, serve together at the Troop Medical Clinic, Aug. 30, at COB Adder.

COB ADDER - Spc. Brian Tugmon promoted his brother, Jason, Aug. 26. “It was nice promoting my brother,” said Brian. ”It makes it easier for people to distinguish the 2 of us." Jason said he was honored to get promoted to the rank of sgt. “It would've been an honor to have anyone pin me, but it was especially meaningful to have my little brother to do it.”

Despite working together in close quarters, and living in the same housing unit, the brothers maintain a positive attitude and a healthy sibling relationship. “Having my brother here is a blessing,” said Jason. “The only downside is that I worry about him when I'm out on convoys. It's weird, but when I'm here on post I feel like he's protected. For the most part it's great though, because I have someone I can confide in.”

Although these 2 share a passion for the medical field and soldier care, they also understand the value of education. “One activity we do by ourselves is our school work,” said Jason. “We both go to the same online school which is Grantham University. Brian is working on his undergraduate work and I'm working on a Master of Health Care Administration.”

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Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/9-16

Dear Interested Reader,

'Put the Vermonters Ahead' dates back to the battle of Gettysburg. Key Leadership Engagement with Charikar Mayor. TF Panther welcomed to Nangarar prov. Combined forces attacked in Helmand. FOB Zeegrugge in Kajaki takes indirect fire, forces enemy to flee.

Iraq: 9/11 Memorial Run in Basra. American flags fly over Hussein's 'Victory over America Palace' on 9/11. Combat Stress Clinic named after fallen Soldier in Basra.

Joanna

_________________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

DVIDS

‘Put the Vermonters Ahead’

Story by Staff Sgt. Whitney Hughes

Army Chaplain (Capt.) Kurt Geib with HC, 3rd Bn, 172nd Inf Regt (Mtn), reads a prayer as Soldiers bow their heads in prayer during a 9/11 memorial ceremony at FOB Gardez, Sept. 11.

PAKTYA PROVINCE – When Union Gen. John Sedgwick gave the order “Put the Vermonters ahead,” at the battle of Gettysburg almost 150 years ago, he etched the legacy of the Green Mountain Boys into the pages of history.

Since then, “ahead” is exactly where the Vermont NG is most likely to be found in any historic event. During their state’s largest deployment since World War II, and one week before the country’s first Afghan-led elections, the Soldiers also had the opportunity to reflect on being in Afghanistan on the anniversary of the 9/11 attacks.

Nine years after the attacks that sparked OEF, the Soldiers of the 3rd Bn, find themselves in the middle of a living history, serving in the prov. where Op Anaconda, the first and largest op in Afghanistan, was conducted. Some are at FOB Gardez, where the mission was planned in response to the 9/11 attacks.

“We are maintaining a presence in these areas that the Coalition fought for and won 8 years ago. The Sept. 11th attacks originated from Afghanistan, and we're still here today because of those attacks,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Paul Edwards, the senior NCO for the bn. “All Vermonters have a reason to be proud of what we're doing here, and the role that we're playing in the war,” he added.

Soldiers of the 3-172 held a memorial ceremony in front of the Wall of Hero’s, a memorial to the Soldiers lost at FOB Gardez. Although the Soldiers had to return to duty after the ceremony, the significance of the day was not lost on them, especially combined with their own personal experiences.

“I consider it a privilege to be here,” said Sgt. 1st Class Mac Broich, the plt. sgt. for the bn cmdr’s personal security detail. “I'm especially happy to be assigned to Paktya with the Mtn Inf,” added Broich who's on his 2nd deployment.

“It seems surreal to think that 10 years have gone by,” said Maj. Gregg Langevine, the bn. ops officer. Langevine was a member of the Vermont Guard during the attacks, but also worked full-time for a financial services firm. On the day the attacks occurred, Langevine was scheduled to be training on the 61st Floor of Tower 2, but he switched with a co-worker at the last minute. “I think the strength of the American people is our resiliency, and our ability to move beyond things,” he said.

For Edwards, the day reminded him of when he was serving in Iraq, and Colin Powell, the former U.S. Secretary of State, addressed him and his fellow Soldiers, reminding them that they weren't only a part history, but also making it. Edwards said the speech made him realize that it's easy to lose perspective of the gravity of these events, as you experience them on a daily basis, but made him stop and think about the truth to Powell’s words.

“As [Edwards] does on more than a few occasions, he just redirected us. He said, ‘Hey, 9 years ago today something horrible happened, so we had to take action.’ It’s nice to have a finite thing to concentrate on; it’s nice to be able to say that this single event is why I’m here 9 years later, and in that way it’s an important day,” said Staff Sgt. Ross Thibodeau, a medical plt. sgt.

The American and Green Mountain Boy Battle flags fly at FOB Gardez, at sunset, Sept. 11.

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DVIDS

Key Leader Engagement With Charikar Mayor

Photos by Spc. Kristina Gupton

CHARIKAR - Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Charles White, the maintenance NCO-in-charge with the Civil Military Support Team (CMST) provides security, Sept. 13, during a Key Leader Engagement (KLE). The CMST and Republic of Korea PRT members visited the Charikar mayor to address some concerns he has within the city.

The mayor of Charikar, Ghulam Sediq, speaks with John Nowacki, U.S. Rule of Law attorney, members of the CMST and Republic of Korea PRT, about a sanitation project to clean the city of Charikar, due to the overflow of trash on the streets.

Army Sgt. Harold McFadden, a SECFOR member with the CMST provides security, during a visit to the mayor’s compound.

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DVIDS

Task Force Panther Welcomed to Nangarhar

Story by Spc. Richard Daniels Jr.

The 1st Sqdrn, 61st Cav Regt, TF Panther held a transfer of authority ceremony, where Army Lt. Col. William Johnson, TF Panther cmdr, and Army Command Sgt. Maj. Anthony Broadhead, uncased their bn colors at FOB Connolly, Sept. 14. Included in the ceremony was a combat patch ceremony recognizing the soldiers first 30 days in theater.

NANGARHAR PROVINCE – TF Bastogne welcomed 1st Sqdrn to their area of ops. “We look forward to working shoulder to shoulder, 'shonna ba shonna,' with our Afghan partners, and will take the fight to the enemy to enhance security in this region; while bringing development, supporting governance, and expanding opportunity for the people of this historic land,” said Army Lt. Col. William Johnson, TF Panther cmdr.

Task Force Panther also used the ceremony as an opportunity to don their combat patches. “This patch marks a significant milestone in a soldier’s career and life, signifying that you've answered our nation’s call to go in harm’s way, and serve in her hour of greatest need,” said Johnson. “The donning of our new patch today binds us together as members of 1-61 Cav of the historic 101st AD, all proudly wearing the ‘Screaming Eagle’– a talisman that strikes fear into the hearts of our enemies, and provides hope to our partners and the people we're here to serve.”

With conditions steadily improving within eastern Afghanistan, TF Panther will assist with security and development, especially with the upcoming elections later this month. “It's an honor to serve as part of TF Bastogne, where we know we'll make a significant and demonstrable improvement to the conditions here in Western Nangarhar,” he said. “It's an honor for us to write the next chapter in our Sqdrn’s continued “Rendezvous with Destiny.”

Lt. Col. William Johnson, TF Panther cmdr, and Command Sgt. Maj. Anthony Broadhead, uncased their bn colors.

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DVIDS

Afghan, Coalition Forces Attacked in Helmand

ISAF Joint Command

HELMAND PROVINCE - Insurgents attacked Afghan and CF conducting a combined dismounted patrol on 3 separate occasions, in the Sangin district, Sept 13. The ensuing engagements resulted in several coalition kinetic strikes against insurgent positions, with up to 23 insurgents killed in action.

During the first engagement, Afghan and CF returned fire with machine guns, mortars and a light anti-armor weapon. When the insurgent fire continued, the force called for artillery rocket fire, and successfully suppressed the threat.

During several additional small-arms engagements with insurgents, CF called for artillery rocket fire and air support. Over the course of the engagements, CF struck 3 insurgent firing positions located inside compounds, one with an aircraft-fired precision-guided munition and 2 with artillery rocket fire.

The combined force ceased fire when women and children moved into the area from where the insurgent fire had originated. According to initial reports, up to 14 insurgents were killed in the first engagement.

In the 2nd incident, insurgents attacked a combined Afghan and coalition patrol with small-arms, machine gun and mortar fire from a tree line. The patrol positively identified the insurgent's firing positions, and responded with small-arms, machine gun and mortar fire. When insurgent firing continued, the patrol fired artillery rockets. According to initial reports, up to 5 insurgents were killed in the engagement.

In the 3rd incident, insurgents attacked a coalition patrol base with small-arms fire. CF positively identified the insurgent firing positions, and returned the insurgent's fire with small-arms, machine gun fire, and mortar fire. The forces also fired a man-portable missile at an insurgent firing position in a compound. When the insurgent fire continued from multiple firing positions, CF called for air support.

A coalition aircraft struck an insurgent position that had been used on 3 separate occasions throughout the engagement with a precision-guided munition. The insurgent fire ceased following the air strike. Initial coalition reports indicate up to 5 insurgents were killed in the 3rd engagement.

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DVIDS

FOB Zeegrugge in Kajaki Takes Indirect Fire

Story by Cpl. Daniel Blatter

A squad of Marines cross the Helmand River after FOB Zeegrugge in Kajaki was attacked with indirect fire, Sept. 12. Marines with India Btry, 3rd Bn, 12th Marine Regt, RCT 2, pushed a patrol out to search for possible spotters involved in the enemy mortar attack. The patrol, led by Sgt. Philip Percesepe, the squad leader for 1st Plt, 3rd Squad, entered several compounds searching for evidence of Taliban, and any weapons, or improvised explosive materials left behind.

KAJAKI – While many were scrambling to find cover, a plan was being made to attack whoever was responsible for the FOB strike. Within moments a sniper team was dispatched to a rooftop searching for any possible enemy involved in the attack. The Marines kept a keen eye looking for an enemy spotter, or a suspicious farmer in the field; each and every individual was thoroughly examined.

Immediately after the last incoming mortar impacted the ground, a team of Marines pushed out to investigate. “We did some counter btry, and we had eyes on a few possible spotters from camp,” said Sgt. Philip Percesepe. “We immediately punched a team out to go intercept those possible spotters. We then went out to see if we couldn’t find whoever was out there, and how they are coming in and out of the area.”

The area around the Kajaki Dam is a valuable area to both friendly forces and the Taliban, as it provides power to nearly a million homes and irrigates more than a half million acres of farmland.
With many underground tunnels and daily suspicious activity, the Marines patrolling the area searched each compound they passed, looking for weapons, tunnels and Taliban.

“We ended up pushing a little further to see if we could find any enemy egress and entrance routes into the area,” said 22-year-old Percesepe. “We're trying to find out where they're bringing and storing all their weapons and IED making materials.”

Even while pursuing the enemy, the Marines understand their top priorities, securing the Kajaki dam and protecting the people. They know they'll have to take the fight to the enemy, but must always protect the innocent. “If we can show the locals that we're here to help and that we care, it will help us in the long run,” said Cpl. Jonathan Jackson, a motor transportation vehicle operator, and asst. squad leader. “They need to know that we want them to have electricity, and also that they don’t have to deal with the Taliban.”

Although the patrol sent out didn’t find any weapons or IED making material, or return with the insurgents who threatened the base and crossed the line, they did show their presence and forced the enemy back from their positions.

“We patrol on a daily basis,” Percesepe said, “and we're going to continue to patrol and force the enemy away from the dam as long as we're here. The further out we can get the Taliban, the safer the dam and local villagers are here. What we've been doing has been working so far, and hopefully soon, the Taliban will get the picture and realize that they can’t come in this area anymore,” Percesepe added.

Several hours after the attack on the FOB, all Marines returned to base unharmed and untouched.
“We keep taking the fight to them no matter what they try to bring to us,” said Jackson. “Just like today, we did take incoming, yet we still pushed a patrol out to give that presence that we're still here. No matter what you do, we're going to be here taking the fight to you.”

Just moments after FOB Zeegrugge, was attacked with mortars, Sept. 12, Cpl. Cody Scholes, a field artillery cannon crewman and spotter for the Special Application Scoped Rifle team, India Btry, stands on a rooftop observing suspicious activity just outside the base.

Sgt. Philip Percesepe analyzes a map, after searching a compound.

A squad of Marines cross the Helmand River.

After Mortar rounds were fired at FOB Zeegrugge, Cpl. Jonathan Jackson, a motor transportation vehicle operator, and asst. squad leader fires a smoke grenade out of his M203 grenade launcher, across the Helmand River into a thick tree line to smoke out any intruders. “We keep taking the fight to them no matter what they try to bring to us," said Jackson.

Marines enter a compound searching for suspicious activity.

Cpl. Jacob Hoag, the Motor Transportation maintenance chief and 50-caliber sniper, and Cpl. Cody Scholes a field artillery cannon crewman and spotter for Hoag, post on a rooftop inside FOB Zeegrugge, just moments after the FOB was attacked with indirect fire.

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IRAQI STORIES:

DVIDS

9/11 Continues the ‘drive’ in Soldiers

Story by Spc. Raymond Quintanilla

Service members and DoD civilians set out on the Sept. 11 13K Memorial Run in Basra. In addition to the run, Basra hosted a memorial ceremony at the post chapel to remember those lost in the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks.

BASRA – In a remembrance ceremony held at the Army base in Basra’s chapel with service members and civilians in attendance, the traditional ringing of the bell echoed, a patriotic composition sung, spiritual readings read, and a painful experience evoked, brought tears to some, and some appeared to hold back.

“It’s most fitting we would pause to remember Sept. 11, and reflect on what has come since,” said Maj. Gen. Vincent Brooks, comm. gen. of USD-South, and the 1st ID. “Days of great challenge, days of adversity and sadness,” Brooks said, “and yet, the resilience, the demonstration of the indomitable spirit that kept us moving forward, leading to where we are right now.”

Lt. Col. Timothy Mallard, div. chaplain for the 1st ID said that although his experiences at the Pentagon in 2001, and the subsequent 3 tours has taken a toll on his family and himself, he finds hope. “Our society appears to run from pain,” Mallard said recalling the 17 days of recovering bodies at the Pentagon site. “Pain can be a tremendous means of re-experiencing a hope. It reminds us of our mortality, that who we are will not last. Hope – that is a great gift.”

Mallard said that the war experiences could be used to develop positively. “Don’t let your experience define your life,” Mallard said. “You can grow from them; you can become stronger from them. Trust in God and he will lead you to hope.”

“I'm glad to participate in the run with my American co-workers,” said Jalil Dheyal, a native of Baghdad, and a civil engr for the Iraqi Facilities Engineering Team on post. “Now we’re mixing culture, so that we can understand each other. We work for a better future.”

For one soldier, the memorial run is symbolic to her joining the service. “It’s the reason why I joined the military,” said Spc. Michelle Crossan, a combat medic with the 162nd Area Support Medical Co, Texas NG. “It’s a big part of my life. It changed who I am now.”

Paul Inman, the safety director for the 1st ID expressed his thoughts on those who continue to enlist in the military, regardless of the on-going war. “Thank you for stepping up to the plate,” Inman said. “When the enemy attacks us, you rally around the flag. You continue the legacy of the U.S.A.”

This day has been embedded in history, and the lives lost, and those directly affected is a reminder of the freedom he cherishes, said one soldier on his 8th tour since joining the Army.
“What fuels me is pretty straightforward,” said Sgt. 1st Class Luis Torres III, a native of Sinajana, Guam, and the communication security NCO-in-charge for the 1st ID. “My father served for 30 years. It’s in my blood and my duty to continue the tradition, to defend our country’s ideals, which we enjoy today.”

Sgt. Maj. William Sutton, the protection SGM for the 1st ID, comes in first in the male div.

Sgt. Michelle Spinazzola, the ops NCO with the 1st ID Band, and Spc. Jonathan Akhondi, the info mgt officer for the band, paid tribute to victims of the 9/11 attacks. The 2 vocalists performed at the 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony at the Basra chapel.

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DVIDS

Service Members Fly Flags Over Palace for 9/11 Remembrance

Photos by Pfc. Jared Eastman

BAGHDAD - Service members and contractors walk to Saddam Hussein's Victory over America palace, Sept. 11, to fly American flags in remembrance of those who died in the terrorist attacks on U.S. soil, 9 years ago.

An American flag flies on top of Saddam Hussein’s Victory over America palace. Service members and govt contractors were given the opportunity to fly flags over the palace in remembrance of those who died on 9/11.

Two soldiers walk up a staircase in Saddam Hussein’s Victory over America palace.

A soldier carries an American flag through the rubble inside Saddam Hussein's Victory over America palace. U.S. forces destroyed the palace in 2003, after Saddam Hussein began construction to signify the "defeat" of America.

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DVIDS

Combat Stress Clinic Named After Fallen Soldier

Story by Sgt. Cody Harding

From left, Maj. Gen. Vincent Brooks, the USD – South comm. gen., Lt. Col. Pamela Breedlove, the Combat Stress Clinic (CSC) comm. officer, and Capt. Lloyd Sporluck, cmdr of Btry A, 5th Bn, 5th Air Defense Artillery Regt, unveil the placard dedicating the facility to Sgt. Brandon Maggart, Sept. 10.

BASRA – Sgt Brandon Maggart, who served with Btry A, was killed in an Aug. 22 rocket attack.
The clinic, which was recently refurbished, provides a place for Soldiers to meet with mental health professionals, to deal with the stress that comes with operating in a combat zone. Controlling stress is an important part of the military’s overall fitness, and the support center aims to help Soldiers cope.

The CSC renovations, under the direction of Sgt. Sonja Young, a behavioral health tech with the 162nd Area Medical Support Group, were completed the day before the attack. After helping the Soldiers in Maggart’s unit, Young advocated that the new CSC be named after him.

Lt. Col. Pamela Breedlove said that Maggart’s leadership was the reason behind his name being placed on the clinic. “Sgt. Maggart truly exemplified the Army Values, Soldier Resiliency, and the tenets of combat stress control,” said Breedlove.

Before the renovations, the CSC was an unattractive place for Soldiers to visit. The building would often become too hot inside to be comfortable, and thin walls kept many discussions from being confidential. The building was improved by adding new a/c units, increasing the thickness of the walls, and remodeling the inside of the clinic.

Sgt. Jose Carrera, serving as the 1st ID behavioral health NCO, said that the improved atmosphere helps Soldiers open up to the staff. “Staff members are able to do their job better,” Carrera said. “Just by improving the environment of the clinic helps improve the Soldier’s ability to open up, and be able to disclose more things the staff can use to help.”

Spc. Devin Swanson, a Soldier in Btry A, left, and Staff Sgt. Joshua Medina, also with 5-5 ADA, stand beside the plaque to commemorate the dedication.

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Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/9-14

Dear Interested Reader,

Our troops know why they're there. They want you to never forget 9/11, the date that was declared Patriot Day on Sept. 4, 2002. Stories are from Bagram Air Field, 334th Combat Support Hospital at FOB Salerno, FOB Lagman, FOB Wright, TF Rakkasan Tactical Ops Center at FOB Salerno, FOB Gardez and Khost PRT.

Iraq: Face of Defense: Siblings reunite while deployed. Commanche Troop works, trains, lives side-by-side with ISF at JSS Umm Sa'ah. USD-C Soldiers help harvest dates.

Joanna

____________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

DVIDS

Bagram Service Members, Civilians Run in Honor of 9/11

Story by Capt. Michelle Lunato

AF Senior Master Sgt. Kevin Scanlin, an emergency mgr with the 455th Air Expeditionary Wing from Bridgeport, N.Y., tells Army Spc. Aquilla Reed, a broadcaster from the 304th PA Det., out of Seattle, Wash., about his 9/11 experience at ground zero, before the Patriot Day Run, Sept. 11. More than 2,200 deployed service members and civilians ran 9.11 kms in remembrance of the Sept. 11 attacks.

BAGRAM AIR FIELD – Before starting the Patriot Day Run, Coast Guard 1st Lt. Jim Cullen, the Redeployment Assistance and Inspection Det. team officer-in-charge, spoke to the large crowd in front of the airfield chapel about his experience on that infamous day.

The Coast Guard reservist, who is also a N.J. state policeman, knew the Coast Guard would be responding to the disaster, so even though he hadn't officially signed into his unit as a brand new 2nd lt, he took action. “I threw on my Coast Guard uniform with my police dept belt, and headed toward N.Y.C.,” he said.

When arriving on the scene, Cullen said he was approached by other “self-dispatched” junior enlisted servicemembers who asked for direction on what to do, and the reality hit him. “I realized that this was to be my first day on the job as a commissioned officer.”

What he and his thrown-together unit didn’t know was that as they set up security and a field hospital, 2 fellow Coast Guard Reservists had made it into the towers to help with the rescue efforts before it collapsed. "Neither of them ever made it out," said Cullen.

With that, Cullen asked the runners to remember not only the victims lost, but also those soldiers, police officers, firefighters and civilians who served this country both on that day and every day thereafter. “As you run your race today, please draw strength and inspiration from those brave first responders, and military members who put the welfare of others first, and raced into those burning buildings to help,” he said.

As runners headed toward the start line, some wiped tears from their eyes with the refreshed memory of what happened that day. But, "that little bit of reminder was exactly the purpose in this run," said Army Sgt. 1st Class Dennis Rodriguez, finance NCO with the 374th Finance Mgt Co., out of Wilmington, Del. “It's important to do things like this, so that we don’t forget.”

“This is why we're here,” said AF Senior Master Sgt. Kevin Scanlin. “Every place was affected by this. We should be thankful that we're fighting the fight here and not at home.”

"For those whose home is New York, this event was even more special," said Army Sgt. Melissa Gray, info systems team chief, 359th Theater Tactical Signal Bde, HQ at Fort Gordon, Ga. “This was personal for me. New York is my home, and this was my way to honor them.”

"Being deployed to Afghanistan, where indirect fire attacks are a constant threat, added even more of a personal motivation for some participants," said Army Sgt. Jason Carter, an infantryman with the 187th Inf., 10th Mtn. Div. out of Fort Drum, N.Y. “It made it more significant because they're still trying to keep us down. We're still going to keep coming though. We aren’t stopping.”

Even runners who were in their teens on 9/11 had a strong reason for participating. “The people of 9/11 should never be forgotten for what they went through, and what some are probably still going through,” said Army Spc. Darcelyn Kimbro, 359th TTSB. “Their families will never forget, so we shouldn’t either.”

Service members deployed to Bagram Airfield prepare to participate in the Patriots Day run, Sept. 11, and listen to Coast Guard 1st Lt. Jim Cullen describe his Sept. 11 experience, as he holds up a flag that was flown at ground zero.

Soldiers and airmen honor Sept. 11 by participating in the Patriots Day Run. Just hours after receiving incoming rocket attacks, more than 2,200 deployed service members and civilians ran.

A soldier deployed to Bagram Air Field waves his personal American flag.

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DVIDS

Unit Remembers Two of Their Own Who Died in 9/11 Attacks

Story and photo by Sgt. 1st Class Kenny Scott

Soldiers of 334th Combat Support Hospital honored their fallen Soldiers during a 9/11 remembrance ceremony at FOB Salerno, Sept. 11. Laying the homemade wreath on a model of the twin towers is Army Lt. Col. Gregory Kolb, 344th CSH cmdr, as Army 1st Sgt. Jay Rippel Jr. renders a salute.

KHOWST PROVINCE – Of the many ceremonies and remembrances commemorating the anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, one struck a personal note for a group of Soldiers at FOB Salerno, Sept. 11. The soldiers are Army Reservists from N.J. and N.Y., serving with the 344th CSHl. When the twin towers of the World Trade Center fell, 2 of the unit’s soldiers were inside.

Army Capt. Michael Mullan and Sgt. Shawn Powell had been serving with the 344th CSH for years before the Sept. 11 tragedy. On that dark day, both men were working as N.Y.C. firefighters, and had responded to the tower disaster, in an attempt to save the thousands trapped inside.

“It was a day like no other in my lifetime, and I think it’s important that we don’t let the memories of that day fade away,” said Lt. Col. Gregory Kolb, comm. officer. “It's something that our country has never encountered before, and I think it’s important we continue to tell the story, so that our children and grandchildren know. The memories of that day should never fade away.”

To honor the memory of the 2,977 lives lost that day, the unit held a short remembrance ceremony outside the hospital. Although the ceremony was not a huge event, it was still very emotional for several soldiers of the unit.

One of those soldiers was Army Sgt. 1st Class Tunde Babawale, a combat medic of the 344th. He was in Brooklyn, just 5 miles from the World Trade Center when the planes slammed into the twin towers. He could see the smoke and flames rising into the sky that day, and his heart sank as he thought of the people inside, he recalled. “I find it very sad that a lot of people back home question the reason we're here,” he said. “We’re here because some evil people attacked America on American soil. It was a cowardly act of wickedness, and we could not let them get away with it.”

The anniversary of 9/11 is very personal and emotional for Babawale, not only because he was close to the event, but also because close friends of his died in the attack. He remembered the personal ties he shared with Powell. “He could brighten up a room just by walking in,” said Babawale. “Powell would make things that were simple or ordinary, fun.” Babawale and Powell had known each other for years and attended combat medic school together.

Mullan was also well known and respected in the unit. “Mullan was a soldier’s soldier,” said Capt. Charles Fiske, a paramedic and emergency room nurse. “He always trained hard and had a great attitude.” Fiske met Mullan in 1998 during annual training, and the 2 became fast friends. Since Mullan worked for the fire dept and was training to be a nurse practitioner, the 2 had a lot in common, and often moved in the same circles.

The tragic events of 9/11 took many of Fiske’s friends that day and motivated him to dedicate his life to the service of his country, from that day forth. “This is my 4th mobilization,” he said. “It’s the least I can do, because so many Americans gave their lives that day.” Fighting to hold back his feelings, Fiske slightly pounded the table with his fist as he spoke. “That’s why we’re here. We’re here because of what happened on Sept. 11, 2001.”

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DVIDS

"Dragoons" Remember 9/11

Story by Sgt. Gerald Wilson

By Sgt. Jerry Wilson

Maj. John Sudduth recounts his memory of where he was on Sept. 11, 2001.

ZABUL - For most Americans Sept. 11, 2001, has become a date that will be forever etched into their minds. The anniversary of that tragic day has become a time of reflection, for counting their blessings, and remembering those heroes that gave their lives on that fateful day.

"Dragoons" of the 2nd Stryker Cav Regt, and other members of Combined Team Zabul marked the anniversary of that sobering event with a prayer breakfast and remembrance service, Sept. 11, at FOB Lagman in Qalat.

“Today we join with our fellow Americans and Allies around the country and the globe,” said Regimental Chaplain, Maj. Vaioa Leau. “United in purpose, we gather to remember the victims of the 9/11 horrific terrorist attacks against the U.S. We gather to remember those in and out of uniform,” he continued, “who continue to fight against those who would harm us for no other reason than that we stand as a bright shining light of freedom in the world.” Leau continued discussing how Americans reacted to the attack.

“When the terrorists struck at the Pentagon and World Trade Center, they sought to topple the world’s mightiest symbols of military power and economic prosperity,” he said. “While these blows hurt, they did not cripple the far-reaching capabilities, or the effectiveness of our financial institutions and most of all, our free spirit.”

Some of the highlights of the event included the national anthem sang by 1st Lt. Christina Chang, and a heartwarming rendition of "America the Beautiful" by Capt. Doug Hogsten, the FIRES Sqdrn Chaplain.

The keynote address of the morning was given by Maj. John Sudduth of C 478th CAB. Sudduth is the Civil Affairs Military Ops chief for 2nd SCR where he leads 4 U.S. and 2 Romanian civil affairs teams. During his speech, Sudduth recounted his days as a Navy officer, and where he was on that tragic day.

“Sailors were not at their posts,” he recalled. “Those actively engaged in the morning activity were still there, but it was the periphery people; those who normally stand around on the decks or forecastle that were not. They were gathered by the televisions scattered throughout the ship.”

Sudduth said he made his way to the wardroom where he too stopped as the footage of the towers toppling played over and over. Shortly after, the ship was speeding over the waves at 18 knots headed for the coast of New York. Sudduth recounted the sight of New York on that day.
“We were miles out to sea,” he said, “yet the ghostly grey and black plumes that were once the towers were clearly visible.”

“The strangest part was the empty skies,” Sudduth said. “I never really thought about it until I was standing on the bridge and there wasn’t an airplane in sight. Not a single contrail racing across the sky,” he continued. “It would be like that for what seemed like an eternity, and it’s one of my most vivid memories, as to how out of place the world felt.”

The former Navy officer turned Army Major went on to talk about how the American spirit had turned from one of despair to that of determination and resolve. He commended his fellow service members for their continuing dedication to the mission. “It's now our watch,” he said; “our turn to stand on the wall.”

“We need to remain vigilant and do our part to support this current war, just as our forefathers had after the attacks on Pearl Harbor,” he said. “As I look at my team mates when they return from missions,” he continued, “I see soldiers weak of body but strong of will. The American will to defend those who cannot defend themselves remains alive and well.”

Soldiers and civilians from Combined Team Zabul listen attentively to the Chaplain.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Kunar teams commemorate Patriot Day

Story and photo by AF Capt. Peter

As AF Chaplain (Capt.) James Anderson, the chaplain for FOB Wright, looks on, Navy Lt. Cdr. Sean Gillespie, the senior engr for the Kunar PRT, lowers the PRT flag to half-mast as part of a ceremony commemorating Patriot Day and the 9th anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks.

KUNAR PROVINCE – Soldiers, Airmen, Sailors and civilians of the Kunar PRT and the Iowa NG’s 734th ADT held a solemn ceremony, at exactly 8:47 a.m. Eastern time, the same time the attacks began in 2001.

Navy Lt. Cmdr. Gillespie raised and lowered the PRT’s flag to half-mast. Afterward, the assembled military members and civilians bowed their heads for a moment of silence, and a brief prayer before quietly returning to duty.

AF Chaplain (Capt.) James Anderson offered the ceremony’s closing prayer. He also organized the commemoration. “We held this ceremony to recognize the patriots and the sacrifice that has been given since 9/11 of 2001 for the freedom and liberty of freedom-loving people around the world,” Anderson said.

For Gillespie, the ceremony evoked memories of September 11, 2001. It also caused him to reflect on all that has passed since then. “I was aboard ship on 9/11, and we were underway in 3-1/2 hours after the attacks, much more quickly than we'd ever been able to before,” Gillespie said. “I worked with heroes on 9/11, and I’ve been working with a team of heroes ever since.”

Army Sgt. Maj. Robert Reedy, the senior enlisted member of the Kunar ADT, attended the ceremony. He described the commemoration as a triumph of American values over terrorism.
“This ceremony bears witness to the strength and resolve of the American spirit,” said Reedy. “Today, we honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the cause of freedom.”

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DVIDS

FOB Salerno Remembers 9-11

Photos by Pfc. Christopher McKenna

FOB SALERNO - Army Capt. Nathan Davis, HHB, 3rd Bn, 320th FAR plt leader, addresses a formation of soldiers about 9/11 in front of the TF Rakkasan Tactical Ops Center, Sept. 11 as the U.S., Afghanistan and 101st AD flags fly behind him. “I will never forget where I was or what I was doing on that day 9 years ago,” said Davis. “I’m not sure what changed in me that day, or whether I’d be doing this right now anyhow, but I enlisted into the Army 6 weeks later.”

Army Lt. Col. Richard Ullian, 3rd Bn, 320th FAR cmdr, addresses a formation of soldiers. “We all have a personal connection to what happened on that morning, as I'm sure all of you remember where you were and what you were doing when you watched in disbelief as the twin towers fell and the pentagon burned; our very way of life was threatened,” said Ullian. “Osama Bin Laden and his fanatics mistakenly predicted that the attacks on downtown N.Y. and the Pentagon would lead to a collapse in the American way of life, but we've proven that they couldn’t have been more wrong.”

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DVIDS

FOB Gardez Remembers Why We Are Here

Story and photo by Army Capt. Mark Steskal

Army Capt. Kurt Geib, TF Avalanche chaplain, leads a minute of silence during the 9/11 memorial service at FOB Gardez, Sept. 11. Most of the units on FOB Gardez were represented during the ceremony held to honor those who gave their lives in the terrorist attack 9 years ago.

PAKTYA PROVINCE – The ceremony was led by Army Capt. Kurt Geib in the qalat, a rustic mud and wood structure, where some of the initial planning for Op Enduring Freedom occurred.

For one attendee, the 9/11 ceremony held special significance, as the tragedy inspired him to rejoin the military after a long separation. Army Spc. Jaime Narvaezcotto, TF Avalanche, came to the U.S. from Puerto Rico in 1983, and joined the Army. In 2005, after a 14-year break in service, he again joined the Army, enlisting in the Army NG.

“My joining again after being out for so long was, in some part, due to the tragic events of Sept. 11, 2001,” said Narvaezcotto. Concerning his contributions in Afghanistan he says, “I'm here to help the people of Afghanistan to work their way up to independence, and be able to defend themselves against external control.”

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DVIDS

Khowst PRT Commemorates 9/11

Photo by Senior Airman Julianne Showalter

Members of the Khowst PRT hung more than 60 American flags from tactical vehicles, Sept. 11 in remembrance of 9/11. The date was declared Patriot day Sept. 4, 2002, and is now honored every year.

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IRAQI STORIES:

DVIDS

Face of Defense: Siblings Reunite While Deployed

By Army Staff Sgt. Melissa Applebee

Army Capt. Tanya Rosa and Army 1st Sgt. Greg Harvey spend time together in Kuwait, the first time the siblings had seen each other in 5 years. Rosa wore her maiden name tape in the photo as a surprise for their parents.

BASRA - A pair of siblings boasts a combined 35 years of military service, more than 5 of which have been spent in a combat zone. Army Capt. Tanya Rosa and Army 1st Sgt. Greg Harvey are carrying on a family tradition of military service, Sept. 10. Their father is a retired AF master sgt and Vietnam veteran; their uncle was a cmdr in the Navy, and Harvey's son, Army Spc. Wayne Harris, serves at Fort Bragg, N.C.

"I don't remember a time in my life that my father didn't hang an American flag outside our door, something that didn't seem to catch on in many households until after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks," Rosa said. As a child, she added, she always wanted to follow in her brother's footsteps.
"He was always doing the 'cool' things, and had the best imagination," she recalled. "Of course, when he got a mongoose, I had to have a purple mongoose."

Harvey, 1st sgt for an OH-58D Kiowa Warrior cav troop in the 25th ID based in Hawaii, joined the Army in November 1990. He has deployed 5 times. Rosa enlisted in the AF in 1993. She spent 12 years as a Morse code interceptor, before a brief stint with the National Security Agency as a civilian.

"Being in the AF wasn't enough for me, either," she said. "I once again had to follow my big brother. I wanted to finish what I started as an officer in the Army, and took a pay cut to become a lt." Rosa is deployed with the 1st ID as a public affairs officer. She previously deployed to Kuwait as a signal officer with the 1st AR Div. She and her brother recently reunited in Kuwait when Harvey's unit redeployed. Rosa also paid a visit to Harvey's son when he passed through Kuwait.

While the miles may separate them, serving in the Army together has strengthened the bond Rosa and Harvey have had since they were children. "My brother is a hero in my eyes," Rosa said. "Several of his comrades have given the ultimate sacrifice, and his best friend just recently lost his life. My brother, of course, does not allow this to stop him. He's the 1st sergeant after all, and he must take care of the troops.

Their parents offer unwavering support from the home front. "My parents were very proud of my brother joining the Army, and later me joining the AF," Rosa said. "Now they have pride that both of their children are now soldiers and combat veterans."

The soldiers' parents "spearheaded a volunteer effort to hold "Support the Troops" rallies outside the gates of Fort Rucker, Ala., every month," Rosa said. The Harveys began rallying in 2003, when a group joined together weekly to hold American flags and service banners, outside MacDill AF Base, Fla.

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DVIDS

Commanche Troop Works, Trains, Lives Side-by-side With ISF

Story and photos by 1st Lt. Will Swearingen

Staff Sgt. Aaron Walters, Spc. Justin Annett, and Pvt. Ronald Johnson III, explain how to plot a 6-digit grid on a military map to a Dept of Border Enforcement soldier, during a day of military skills competitions at JSS Umm Sa’ah, Aug. 11.

JSS UMM SA’AH — Officers from the 10th Dept of Border Enforcement Bde, recently met at JSS Umm Sa’ah in Maysan prov., for the grand opening of the 10th IA Div. Joint Coordination Center.
Over the past few weeks since the JCC’s inception, Comanche Troop, 4th Sqdrn, 10th Cav Regt, 3rd BCT, 4th ID, has partnered with the 41st IA, 10th DBE, and the JCC to effectively plan and execute joint missions, to further provide safety and security to the Iraqi people within the prov.

“It’s their mission now. We're working closely with the ISF to ensure that they're properly trained to protect the people of Iraq, when the U.S. no longer has a presence here,” said Sgt. Alex Stubbs, squad leader.

As the units work and train together, they also take time for recreation. On August 11, 1st Plt, Comanche Troop and 10th DBE soldiers participated in a day of friendly competition, competing in map reading and weapons assembly.

At the request of Comanche Troop soldiers, Maj. Hassan, 10th DBE co. cmdr. and Capt. Hameed, 10th DBE, JCC ops officer, taught an introduction to Ramadan class that covered the history of the holiday, as well as the daily schedule for the Iraqi soldiers during the month.

“It's very important for the U.S. soldiers to learn about the traditions and customs of Iraqis during Ramadan. This way, the U.S. forces have a good understanding of what to expect from their Iraqi partners during this very important holiday,” said Hassan.

These events continue to strengthen the relationship between Comanche soldiers and ISF. This increased partnership allows for better communication and coordination, while conducting joint training and missions within Maysan prov.

"Due to the success of the training partnership between Comanche Troop, 41st IA and 10th DBE of the JCC, the ISF are increasing their capabilities to provide safety and security to the people living in Maysan," said Stubbs.

Pfc. Aaron Fletcher takes on a DBE Soldier in a game of ping-pong during the first ever JSS Umm Sa’ah Ping-Pong Invitational.

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DVIDS

USD-C Soldiers Help Iraqis Harvest Dates

Story by Cpl. Daniel Eddy

Spc. Andrew Bailey (left), a cavalry scout with 5th Sqdrn, 7th Cav Regt, 1st Advise and Assist Bde, 3rd ID, USD – Center, hauls a crate of dates, with the help of an IrNP officer, Sept. 6, near East Rashid. The dates will arrive at the local market later in the day, to be sold during Ramadan.

BAGHDAD — Capt. Jonathan Heist, cmdr of A Troop, 5th Sqdn., said that before the start of the war, Iraq was known for its dates—Iraq’s second biggest export just behind oil at the time. The date is also significant to the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, as it's traditionally the first piece of food Muslims will eat to break their fast.

“I appreciate the soldiers collecting, delivering and transporting the dates for the Iraqi people, and all the Muslims when they break their fasting.” said Dr. Muayad Hamad, the owner of the date farm. “This is very much appreciated, because if anyone is given one piece of date to break his fasting, it's something big,”

Hamad grew up on this date farm, which has been owned by his family for generations—almost 100 years. The farm has suffered in recent years because of combat in Iraq, but that's something Americans hope to change with the help of the Iraqis. “We're trying to show that American forces are here to assist in building Iraq’s economy,” Heist said. “We're partners with the Iraqi people; we want them to return and surpass the success that they used to have.”

The plt that helped Hamad harvest dates is an example of that cooperation. Three INP officers are embedded in the plt, doing everything the American Soldiers do. “I'm so happy for this, because we work as one family here to help Iraqis and support people here,” said Sgt. Kareen, an NP official.

Showing that Iraqis can stand on their own is part of Op New Dawn, and some soldiers who have previously deployed have never been able to interact with the local population in such a directly positive support role. “It definitely builds trust and confidence between the people and ISF, to see them out there with us jointly, and it’s good fun doing something other than your standard patrols,” said Staff Sgt. Daniel Brooks, a cav scout with A Troop. Brooks said that helping out the local community brings purpose to what is going on in Iraq, and he feels like what they did at the date farm was beneficial to all.

Heist said being able to focus on activities that build and lend a helping hand, instead of fighting insurgency is very satisfying. By ensuring date farms and other possible job opportunities are stable, it helps build the economy. Hamad showed the soldiers where the war had damaged his property, but also said he had plans to re-grow what was lost.

Sgt. Terrance Daniels (standing), a cav scout, waits below to receive dates from Iraqi workers in a tree.

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Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/9-13

Dear Interested Reader,

TF Bulldog aids local village in Kunar. Kapisa PRT continues support for Women's Shelter. Maintaining computer-network communication between CF. FTF arrests an insurgent Direct Action Cell in Khost. Grading a desk for a machine gun. Sappers attend Bagram shura.

Iraq: Land allocated for displaced persons. Retracing her steps back to Iraq. No challenge too great for "Desperado Troop."

Joanna

_______________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

DVIDS

TF Bulldog Aids Local Village in Kunar

Photos by Staff Sgt. Okan Scott

KUNAR PROVINCE - Soldiers with 1st Plt, Co C, 1st Bn, 327th Inf Regt, TF Bulldog, provide security outside a house during a Key Leader Engagement with the village elder in Guru district, Aug. 25.

Staff Sgt. Jason Anderson takes a moment to interact with the local children.

Sgt. Adam Morris, a medic with 412th CAB, on patrol with 1st Plt provides medical treatment to a child, after his father asked the passing patrol for medical assistance in Shilotay Village.

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DVIDS

Kapisa PRT continues support for Afghan women, families

Story by Capt. Kirsten Udd

Beadwork art created by the residents of the Kapisa Women's Shelter in Mahmood Raqi. The shelter is one of the Kapisa PRT’s projects to help Afghan women with health, safety, education, employment, marriage and child care issues.

KAPISA PROVINCE - Kapisa PRT’s female engagement team met with the director of the Kapisa Women’s Shelter to assess the needs of the shelter and the local women, Aug. 29.
The team, lead by AF 1st Lt. Amanda Huffman, inspected the living quarters and classroom. "I really enjoyed seeing the positive effects that a PRT project had on the women in this community. Continuing to support programs like this should be our top priority," said Huffman.

Built in 2008 by the PRT, the shelter provides services to 12 resident women and 4 children daily, and is designed to be a place of refuge for local women. Few men at all, and no western men, are allowed inside and photography is prohibited. “These women are like my family; when they cry, I cry. They're like my children. That's why I take good care of them,” said the dir., Azima Kohistani.

Since divorce and separation are not accepted in the Afghan culture, an increasing number of women seek asylum at facilities like this one, leaving their husbands or arranged marriages to save their children from abusive or opium-addicted fathers. In an effort to reunite families and ease tensions within the community, the shelter offers marriage counseling and, with the PRT's assistance, is working toward providing substance abuse and drug education classes.

Kohistani went on to explain a major issue facing local families is opium addiction. "As an example, we had a woman come in and complain that her husband was addicted to opium, and he wanted to addict their 16-year-old son," she said. "We can't cure the family without curing the father."

The shelter is interested in creating an addiction center to combat the opium problem in the area. Funded primarily by the local govt, the shelter raises additional money through the sale of beaded jewelry, created in the classroom by the women and children who call it home.

The PRT supports projects like this to enable the govt to care for, educate, employ and protect their people, by providing mentorship and construction of basic infrastructure.

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DVIDS

Maintaining Computer-Network communication between CF

Story by Sgt. Grant Matthes

Army Sgt. Darrell Coffman, Co C, HHB, 101st AD, VSAT facility NCO-in-charge, and Army Sgt. William Hemingway, traffic terminal and SIPR point of presence and reset tech., troubleshoot a problem with an SPOP, Sept. 7. The SPOP is part of the system that enables computer-network communication between CF.

BAGRAM AIR FIELD – Signal soldiers are in charge of ensuring communication equipment is up and running at all times. Secure Internet Protocol Router (SIPR), Non-Secure Internet Protocol Router and Combined Enterprise Regional Info Exchange are crucial computer networks to the mission in Afghanistan, and the work of 4 soldiers within the company keeps these communication lifelines flowing.

This small group is tasked with conducting maintenance and training others on the proper use of the Very Small Aperture Terminal, or VSAT. VSAT techs are in charge of training soldiers in RC-East, how to properly maintain, set up and operate the computer systems in their area of responsibility. VSATs are small satellites used to transmit low-bandwidth data to other VSATs within range.

“We train the soldiers to familiarize themselves, and make it easy for them to use the equipment,” said Army Sgt. Matthew Grey, TT/SPOP trainer and reset tech. “On occasion, we can troubleshoot some of the issues over the phone,” Grey said.

“A 3-day class is given on demand for new units operating in RC-East,” said Army Sgt. Darrell Coffman, VSAT facility NCO-in-charge. “Our job is to reset, repair and validate the VSATs to keep the degradation at a minimum,” said Coffman. “When we get sent a VSAT, we set up, troubleshoot and verify circuit boards and cables, take the systems completely apart, deep-clean and re-wire the systems. “We get about 2 systems every other week on average.

“It’s good to know that we're providing the systems for the small COPs and fire bases that keep their networks up and running,” said Army Sgt. William Hemingway, TT/SPOP trainer and reset tech.

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DVIDS

FTF detains an insurgent Direct Action Cell, captures weapons

Story by Pfc. Christopher McKenna

ANP and Army soldiers with the 3rd Bn, 320th FAR, 3rd BCT’s Focused Tactical Force (FTF) search a building, during an air assault op in the Momad Kalay District, Sept. 6.

KHOST PROVINCE - During the op, the FTF detained 6 insurgents, and captured multiple munitions. One of the individuals captured was considered a high-value target who had been leading an insurgent Direct Action Cell (DAC), responsible for assaults on CF travelling on Route Alaska, a main road throughout the Khost prov.

"Recently attacks on the private security guards on Route Alaska have occurred almost daily, and the capture of an entire DAC will seriously hamper insurgent actions in the area," said Army Lt. Col. Richard Ullian, cmdr from Fort Campbell, Ky.

Capturing 6 insurgents was only part of the mission’s success, as the FTF was also able to confiscate a variety of weapons and munitions, consisting of an RPG launcher, a PKM machine gun, 5 AK-47s, 12 grenades, 2 RPG rounds, 21 AK-47 mags., 5 chest racks, and a rucksack.

The op went off without a hitch, as the insurgents surrendered willingly upon the FTF’s arrival.

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DVIDS

Trading a desk for a machine gun

Story by Staff Sgt. Gary A. Witte

Army Pfc. Jonathan Burson, a 28-year-old gunner with 2nd Plt, Co A, 2nd Bn, 327th Inf Regt, TF No Slack, gave up his civilian career to join the infantry last year. He's stationed at COP Monti.

KUNAR PROVINCE - His position was under heavy enemy fire, when a round hit Pfc. Jonathan Burson in the chest. “It was almost surreal,” Burson said. “I could feel the fragments of the bullet hit my face.”

Company A was holding an overwatch position, as part of Op Strong Eagle, June 27 when the firefight started. Burson was on the M240B machine gun. The other heavy weapon, an automatic grenade launcher, had stopped working, causing him to draw even more fire. One of many RPGs being fired at the unit exploded 20 feet in front of his position, before he was shot.

When he checked himself for injuries, Burson found the back of his ballistic chest plate bowed out instead of a hole. Once he realized he was OK, “I got back on my gun and started firing again.”

Burson didn't take the typical route to becoming an infantryman. He was working as structural designer for an engineering co., when he decided to join the Army last year. He worked his way up in the engineering co., to the point where he drafted 3-dimensional construction plans on computers.

By then, Burson found himself stifled by life in an office. “I was just tired of the daily grind … 50 to 60 hours behind a desk,” he said. Now, he pulls guard shifts at COP Monti, and patrols one of the more dangerous areas of Afghanistan with his fellow Soldiers – earning a salary 3 times less than he was making in the civilian world.

“My friends all thought I was crazy,” he said. “It’s something I always wanted to do. I just decided to go for it.” Burson is scheduled to attend Ranger school, to become a member of the special ops forces after his deployment is completed, and is seriously considering a career in the military. He said that he chose the infantry, because he didn’t want to wind up behind a desk again.

“It’s not easy,” he said. “It’s not always exciting. It’s hard work. At the same time, it’s rewarding.” His plt leader, 1st Lt. Ryan Krolicki, described Burson as a thinker who uses his head during patrols. He said he usually places him as a gunner in vehicles, because Burson keeps a good situational awareness, and lets him know what the vehicle cmdr needs to know. “I like to have him in my turret because he’s good at it,” Krolicki said.

His company has suffered heavy losses since arriving at COP Monti. From May until Aug., it had 9 fatalities and many wounded. Burson was close with some of the soldiers who have died and said that dealing with the deaths has been difficult. Two of his fellow soldiers were wounded during the June 27 firefight.

Many soldiers at COP Monti live together in open barracks, sharing a living space with little privacy. During their down time, they work out, watch movies, use the Internet at the base morale center, and joke around together. Burson described his unit as almost like a family.
“You really couldn’t ask for better,” he said, noting the additional pride he has in his div. “It’s a real honor to wear the 101st patch.”

Burson, an agnostic, said his mother prays for his safety constantly. “She says there are angels watching over me, so maybe she’ll be comforted that it’s working.”

Pfc. Burson on guard duty.

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DVIDS

Company A (Sappers) Attend Bagram Shura

Photos by Spc. Kristina Gupton

Army soldiers from Co A (Sappers), 86th BSTB, 86th IBCT (Mtn) and Maliks from surrounding villages discuss concerns and projects at the Bagram shura, Sept. 1. Co A, which is responsible for security in Bagram district, met with more than 25 local Maliks at the shura, which has been held regularly since Co A arrived in the district.

Maliks from the Bagram security district listen and take notes. The regularly held shura provides the Maliks a chance to discuss security and development issues among themselves, and with CF who assist the ANSF in the district.

Army Capt. Christopher Brooks, cmdr, listens to a Malik’s development proposals.

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IRAQI STORIES:

DVIDS

Land allocated for displaced persons

Written by Pvt. Jennifer Montagna

Hundreds of families along Iraq’s borders have taken refuge in IDP camps throughout the past 8 years of conflict. The GoI and the Kurdish regional govt are looking for long-term solutions, while humanitarian support is being provided by non-military orgs. and the KRG, Sept. 6.

COB MAREZ – The TF Marne Dep. Comm. Gen. for Support, Brig. Gen. Tom Vandal, has made several visits to Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps in Kurdistan, meeting with Iraqi govt officials, to assist the families who reside there.

Camp Sangasar, in Sullymania prov., is home to approx 500 displaced families. Most of the individuals fled their Qandhil Mountain homes due to artillery fire. While their current camp is safe from artillery fire, there's another problem caused by the location of the village; it's located on a flood plain. “Our engagement with KRG officials following the Sangasar visit, was to have the KRG allocate space to move IDPs, which will fix the short-term problem,” said Vandal.

For the camp’s residents, returning to their homes in the near future isn’t a safe option. It's believed by govt officials and Vandal that the artillery fire was an attempt to clear the village of civilians, and that anyone who remains in the area may be labeled as terrorist suspects.
While families at Camp Sangasar wait until they can make a safe return to their homes, the KRG has donated money and is setting aside land for farming.

Like their Camp Sangasar counterparts, the residents of the Dahuk prov. IDP camp feel that they can't safely return home. According to the Dahuk Dir. of Displaced Persons, some of the families in these camps were forced there by Saddam Hussein’s Regime. Many fled their home city of Mosul due to terrorist attacks.

“These IDPs only remember the conditions when they departed 4 or 5 years ago from Ninewa prov., when there were around 300 to 400 violent attacks per month. Now, attacks are down to 10 to 15 per week,” said Vandal.

As security has improved in Mosul, the KRG and GoI are looking for permanent homes for these people, with assistance from the U.S. Army. “The KRG is more than capable of providing for the humanitarian needs of these people," said Vandal. “What we can do is engage senior leadership within the KRG, to ensure that they're focused on long-term solutions.”

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DVIDS

Retracing Her Steps

Story by Capt. Efrem Gibson

Brig. Gen. Rhonda Cornum poses for a photo during a visit to the Al-Faw Palace in Baghad. Saddam Hussein’s former palace was one of many stops during her trip to Iraq. Cornum had not been back to the country since her 8 days in captivity by Iraqi forces in 1991.

TAJI – “Certainly, it’s a homecoming of sorts.” That's how Brig. Gen. Rhonda Cornum described her first visit back to Iraq, 19-1/2 years to the day that she was released as a prisoner of war.

The catalyst for her return to Iraq was an invitation. Currently serving as Dir. of Comprehensive Soldier Fitness for the Army, Cornum was the guest speaker for the grand opening of the Taji Warrior Resiliency Campus, approx 15 miles north of Baghdad. The center is operated by the Enhanced Combat Aviation Bde, 1st ID, and is the first of its kind in Iraq. Cornum was thankful for the bde’s invitation, because it was an opportunity to speak to soldiers on resilience, Sept. 10, 2010.

The CSF concept was not around in 1991, but Cornum demonstrated great resilience back then, surviving 8 days in captivity by Iraqi forces. The goal of CSF is to improve a soldier’s “resilience” by focusing on 5 dimensions (physical, emotional, spiritual, social, and family). Cornum credits her spiritual strength for getting her through her time in captivity.

“I had great confidence in the Army, and felt what we were doing (in Iraq) was right. I also believed that if I stayed alive long enough, the Army would come and get me.” The general also felt that being able to put it in perspective was a key factor that helped her stay alive.

Cornum’s experience as a prisoner of war has helped her realize that there's a need for CSF. She's able to personalize the teachings of CSF, and relate them to a real-life incident she’s experienced. “No matter how grave or mundane the situation is, I always try to take a disadvantage, and turn it into an advantage” she stated. “I live my life every day like that.”

Although she was glad to be in Iraq again, Cornum does not consider the trip to be closure for her. “It was an event. I don’t look for closures to events; they just end,” she said. The general said she was happy she had came back to Iraq to demonstrate that a person can return to the scene of a bad experience and be OK. Cornum does not even hold animosity toward the men who held her captive.

Besides being a guest speaker, Cornum had other plans while she was in Iraq. “See the country and all of the progress,” Cornum said. “The last time I was here, I was blindfolded in the back of a truck so I didn’t see much.”

Brig. Gen. Rhonda Cornum enters the Taji Warrior Resiliency Campus.

Brig. Gen. Cornum talks to soldiers in the Taji Warrior Resiliency Campus' movie theater about turning a disadvantage into an advantage. Her slide presentation on being resilient includes pictures from her life to include pictures of her immediately after her release from Iraqi captivity, the tail section of the Black Hawk she was in when it was shot down, and her reunion with her daughter.

Brig. Gen. Rhonda Cornum tours the medical clinic at Taji. The tour was given by Lt. Col. Dan Johnston, Surgeon for the Enhanced Combat Aviation Bde, 1st ID. It was Johnston who initally asked Cornum to come back to Iraq.

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USF-I

No Challenge Too Great for "Desperado Troop"

COB MAREZ – 9-9-10 - Operating at 50% strength, the company owns the top Operational Readiness (OR) Rate in the Bde. The company is the Forward Support Co for 3rd Sqdrn, 7th Cav Regt, 2nd Advise and Assist Bde, 3rd ID. In the Cavalry tradition the company is referred as “Desperado Troop.” Its ranks contain both of first-time deployers and veterans of up to 4 OIF deployments. During their current deployment, the unit exceeded all expectations, and made the impossible possible with minimal resources and personnel.

Every day, the Maintenance Plt fights to keep equipment that’s been in theater for over 6 years operational. “Upon arrival, the fleet we inherited had a 20% OR rate. Our mechanics worked 18 hours a day for nearly 2 months, and did an excellent job repairing vehicles,” said Sgt. 1st Class Jerry Reaves, Delta Co’s maintenance plt. sgt. “Despite their ups and downs and numerous support missions, our troops stayed focused and motivated. They never complained, and brought our OR rate to 98%," Reaves added.

During the current deployment, Delta Co’s Distribution Plt logged over 60,000 miles of Logistical Convoy ops. In a mere 10 months, they've driven enough miles on missions to travel the entire circumference of the earth twice, with 10,000 miles to spare. This dedicated group made it possible to deliver necessary supplies to the Sqdrn’s remote outposts that keep 500 soldiers fed and supplied with all necessary equipment, according to 1st Lt. Wilson Griffin, as he highlighted his plt’s accomplishments.

“From supporting Troops located at multiple JSSs, to our daily duties here, every soldier puts in countless hours to get the job done,” said Griffin. “Whatever the mission or the distance, you can always count on Delta Co to roll up their sleeves, mount their vehicles, and accomplish the task at hand, through their vehement work ethic and dedication,” said Griffin proudly.

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Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/9-11

Dear Interested Reader,

Camp Mike Spann Soldiers help break ground at local school. TF Iron relocates to Ghazni prov. Iowa ADT helps Nuristan PRT fight rabies. Haqqini Network facilitator captured in Khost. Shopping spree in Tarin Kowt. Eid celebration at Camp Shorabak.

Iraq: 3/156 Inf. Soldiers continue mission at Joint Base Balad. 'Iftar' dinner brings fellowship among Iraqi and U.S. forces.

Joanna

___________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

RC-North

Soldiers from Camp Mike Spann Help Break Ground at Local School

Story by Sgt. 1st Class John Queen

Army Spc. Brandi Morales of the 10th Mtn Div’s 1st BSTB, poses for a picture with group of young Afghan girls at the Prozah Habida Balkhi Girls School in the Dehdadi District near Mazar-e-Sharif in Northern Afghanistan. Soldiers of the 1st BSTB are assisting the community in building more classroom facilities for the younger students.

CAMP MIKE SPANN – The event marked the official start of construction on a new 6-room facility that will house students next to the school’s main building. “When we first arrived here at the Dahdadi District, up at Camp Mike Spann, the locals brought us to this school – there was just broken tents,” said Capt. Tim Williams, cmdr of HHC, 1st BSTB, from the 10th Mtn Div’s 1st BCT.

On the playground, outside the main school building there were several tents in various states of disrepair, with gaping holes and tattered guy lines. Many felt these conditions were not the proper environment for the children to receive their education.

“A month after we were here, we were able to get them new tents,” Williams said. “Now we’ve started this project to provide them a 6-room school. Williams explained that the new building will have electricity and a permanent roof, providing cover and warmth during the winter months. He said it will also have an indoor garden for the children to enjoy.

During the ceremony, prominent members of the community made several traditional dedications to the ground breaking. One of which was placing decoratively wrapped bricks into the building’s foundation to honor special guests that were present at the event.

As the ceremony ended, students from the school joined in the celebration and took the opportunity to meet and share a little laughter with several Soldiers from the 1st BSTB.
According to Williams, Dehdadi is one of the districts within Afghanistan that exceeds all educational standards. Approx 60% of the population is high school educated, and as a result, the district has a lower crime rate.

Local elders from the Dehdadi District, along with members of the ANA and the ISAF, prepare to place specially wrapped stones into the foundation.

AF Staff Sgt. Joshua Arends, a broadcast journalist attached to the 10th Mtn Div’s 1st BCT, shows a group of students at the Girls' School how his video camera works.

Students at the Girls' School pause from their school work, as Soldiers arrive for a ground breaking ceremony.

While Afghan construction workers stand by, a local contractor discusses the site development with Kelley Murray, a member of the USACE. The construction project is a new building at the Prozah Habida Balkhi School that will shelter the students during the winter months.

Army Cpl. Joseph Hinojosa and Spc. Brandi Morales enjoy the company of a crowd of young Afghan boys and girls.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

TF Iron Soldiers relocate to Ghazni Province

Written by Army Sgt. Brent Powell

U.S. soldiers provides security after a vehicle was disabled by an IED, as a convoy led by Angel Co, 3rd Bn, 187 Inf, 101st AD from Fort Campbell, Ky., departed FOB Yahya Khel in route to FOB Rushmore, Aug. 23, 2010.

PAKTIKA PROVINCE – For the past several months, TF Iron Soldiers have worked tirelessly throughout Paktika Prov., conducting numerous combat patrols, clearing miles of roadway, and building relationships with local village leaders and elders to pave the way ahead.

Recently the Soldiers moved their new area of responsibility to the Andar District of Ghazni Prov., to join TF White Eagle. Although the bn does not assume official responsibility of the area until mid-Sept., several platoons are already patrolling the district.

It didn’t take the Iron Rakkasans long to make their presence known. “Early in the morning on Sept. 2, TF Iron Soldiers identified insurgents attempting to emplace an IED on a well-travelled roadway,” said Army 1st Lt. R. J. Peek, bn spokesman, 3rd Bn. “In order to deal with the threat quickly, the Soldiers requested air support, and within a matter of minutes 2 AH-64 Apache helicopters were on the scene.”

The Air Weapons Team was able to positively identify the heavily-armed insurgents. After receiving clearance to fire, the Apache pilots engaged the enemy forces with Hellfire missiles and 30-millimeter gunfire. After the shooting stopped, 3 insurgents lay dead. About 15 minutes later, a 4th insurgent tried to shoot one of the helicopters down with a RPG. His attempt was unsuccessful, and the Apaches quickly returned fire and killed him.

Following the incident, Soldiers from 1st Plt, Co C, were sent to the site. “When we got there we found and recovered the IED that the insurgents were attempting to place,” said Sgt. 1st Class Anthony Hughes, plt sgt for 1st Plt. “It contained about 100-lbs of homemade explosives, and was complete with a command wire and radios.“ Hughes’ plt also found multiple small arms weapons, RPGs and grenades at the site.

“Hopefully, this op will show the insurgents that they'll no longer be able to operate freely in East Ghazni Prov.,” said Hughes. “Task TF Iron is moving in, and we intend to work with the ANSF here to bring a stop to the insurgent threat. With their cooperation and lots of hard work, the Afghan people here will be able to live without fear of the Taliban.”

A U.S. Army soldier watches over an area in the Waza Kwah District during dismounted ops. The Iron Rakkasans passed the responsibility for Paktika prov. to TF Currahee, Sept. 9, and will now be HQ in Ghazni prov.

Army soldiers set up a mortar tube during dismounted ops near the Waza Kwah District.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Iowa ADT helps Nuristan PRT fight rabies outbreak

Written by AF Capt. Peter Shinn, Kunar ADT

Army Maj. Loren Adams, right, the veterinary officer for the 734th ADT, delivers 300 doses of rabies vaccine to Navy Lt. Kyle Burditt, a physician asst with the Nuristan PRT.

FOB FENTY -- The Nuristan PRT is fighting an outbreak of rabies in the Titin Valley that has claimed the lives of 4 Afghan citizens, but they're not going at it alone. The PRT is getting help from the Iowa NG’s 734th ADT, which provided 300 doses of rabies vaccine. The vaccine will be used to innoculate dogs in the area, and will help avoid the slaughter of Titon Valley’s canines.

“We were going to have to go to the villages in the valley, and if we saw any suspicious animals, we were basically going to have to put them down,” said Navy Lt. Kyle Burditt. “We were going to end up killing a lot of animals that wouldn’t have to die if we didn’t have this vaccine.”

One of Maj. Loren Adams areas of expertise is veterinary public health, and he provided technical advice to the Nuristan PRT, which does not have a veterinarian on staff. According to Adams, vaccinating animal populations is the only effective way to bring a rabies outbreak like the one in Nuristan’s Titon Valley under control.

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DVIDS

Haqqani Network Facilitator Capture in Khost Confirmed

ISAF Joint Command

KABUL- The ISAF confirmed the capture of a Haqqani facilitator who operated in the Musa Khel District of Khost prov. Afghan and CF captured the cmdr. during an overnight op in Khost prov., Sept 7.

Afghan and CF targeted a compound in a small village in Sabari District to search for the cmdr. Afghan and CF used a loudspeaker to call for all occupants to exit the compound peacefully, and then secured the area.

After initial questioning at the scene, the SECFOR detained the facilitator along with 6 of his assocs. The SECFOR found multiple weapons, mags., and a grenade at the scene.

"Facilitators enable insurgent attacks to occur, and these ops take out a key element of the attack chain, creating the time and space necessary to establish governance and stability, said Army Col. Rafael Torres, ISAF Joint Command Combined Joint Ops Center dir."

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RC-South

Shopping Spree in Tarin Kowt

Story by Staff Sgt. John Wollaston

Army 1st Lt. Mark Melchi from 1st Sqdrn 2nd Stryker Cav Regt hands out pencils to kids in during a recent Sqdrn shopping spree in Tarin Kowt, Sept. 5. The War Eagles used the opportunity to not only help the economy with their purchases, but get out and engage the local population as well.

TARIN KOWT – Soldiers stationed at Multi-National Base (MNB) Tarin Kowt, recently made a foray into the base’s namesake town with a list of items to purchase. The mission was 2-fold. The War Eagles wanted to buy some much needed items, as well as show the merchants and residents of Tarin Kowt that they're here for more than just combat ops.

“We showed the population that we care enough to come to them and shop directly on their economy.” said 1st Lt. Mark Melchi. “And, more importantly, we did it without fear, and with the ANP showing that they're securing us, and not the other way around.”

The soldiers that participated in the Sqdrn shopping spree rode into town in their Stryker’s, but as soon as they hit the ground, up went the ramps and away went the vehicles, leaving the soldiers on foot walking from store to store. Melchi said that at first the locals were slightly wary of the soldiers’ presence in the market area, but warmed up quickly to them once the shopkeepers realized that they were there to spend.

“When we entered our first shop, locals quickly tried to gather to see the purpose of our patrol,” Melchi said, describing the beginning of their shopping odyssey. “As we started to purchase our list, locals quickly realized that we were here to shop, and support the local economy. Instantly locals’ posture turned from curious to excited.”

The visit to town also afforded the soldiers a chance to gauge the level of interest and sentiment about the upcoming elections, scheduled for the middle of Sept. The troopers asked such questions as "were the townsfolk aware of the upcoming elections (they were), and how did they feel about voting in them" (overall they were excited).

Melchi said that for the most part the locals where very receptive and enjoyed their presence, and they constantly tried to come up to the soldiers and talk to them, with smiles on their faces. In turn, the soldiers handed out pencils and coloring books to the kids, which in turn caused them to follow them for the entire trip hoping for more goodies.

The War Eagles also had high praise for the ANP on patrol during their buying spree. The ANP were constantly checking unattended motorcycles and parked cars in the areas where the soldiers headed, to ensure there were no surprises from insurgents waiting for them.

After a little over 2 hours in the market, it was time to go. The soldiers, looking like they just returned from a Black Friday sale, loaded up in their Stryker’s and headed back to base. Not only were the soldiers happy with what they’d purchased, they were more than pleased with the effect it had on the locals as well.

“The low presence of force and no heavy vehicles in tow made a great impression to the local population,” Melchi said after they returned. “It made great strides in changing their views of Americans in the area as well”.

Soldiers talk with a local shop keeper.

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DVIDS

Eid Celebration at Camp Shorabak

Photos by Senior Airman Whitney Lambert

CAMP SHORABAK - Brig. Gen. Farooq, 215th Corps dep. cmdr., thanks the 215th Corps Advisory Team for celebrating Eid al-Fitur with the ANA at Camp Shorabak, Helmand province, Sept. 10, 2010.

Members of the 215th Corps Advisory Team wish soldiers of the ANA Eid Mubarak. Eid Mubarak means happy Eid, which is a 3-day celebration at the completion of Ramadan.

Marine Col. Jeffrey Endicott, 215th Corps Advisory Team officer-in-charge, passes fruit during a celebration of Eid al-Fitur.

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IRAQI STORIES:

DVIDS

3/156 IN Soldiers Continue Mission in Light of Drawdown

Story and photo by 1st Lt. Ronald Brown Jr.

Sgt. Daniel Butts (left), asst. convoy cmdr., and Sgt. Derick Woods, convoy cmdr., both with the 199th Forward Support Co., 3rd Bn, 156th Inf Regt, 3rd Sust Bde, 103rd ESC, pose for a photo minutes before a scheduled overnight mission, Sept. 3.

JOINT BASE BALAD - When deciding to enlist into the Louisiana NG in July 2001, Sgt. Daniel Butts, didn’t realize that he would be entering military service just 45 days prior to the worst acts of terrorism ever carried out in the U.S..

Nine years after that event, and with much of the enemy activity drastically reduced, he was finally called to help transport commodities throughout the war-torn provs. of Iraq.

Butts, along with Sgt. Derick Woods supervises 21 soldiers, 6 MRAP vehicles, a recovery element, and up to 45 civilian-driven tractor trailers. “Communication and teamwork are the keys to the delivery of commodities, and the safe return of all members of any convoy,” said Woods, with 3 deployments to his credit.

Butts relied on Woods’ prior experience in the beginning, but began to hold his own after getting a few missions under his belt. “We work as a team on this CET, and everybody has a role assigned to them,” said Butts.

Some soldiers in the company call Woods and Butts “Batman and Robin,” clearly a reference to the way they function during missions. Together, they've accumulated more than 60 missions and thousands of miles of dangerous territory in support of the responsible drawdown of troops.

“It doesn’t matter if there are 200,000 troops or 20,000 troops, CET 1-1 will operate the way we were trained,” added Butts. “The goal is to get all of my soldiers back home safely. Even with the troop drawdown, we still will maximize our ability to sustain, by integrating lessons learned from other units, and sharpshooting our soldiers’ minds for alertness before, during and after missions. My job for the rest of our time here is not to let anyone become complacent,” said Butts.

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DVIDS

'Iftar' Dinner Brings Fellowship Among Iraqi, U.S. Forces

Story and photos by Capt. Pete Cox

Lt. Col. Andrew Preston, cmdr of 2nd Bn, 11th FAR, 2nd AAB, 25th ID, talks with Lt. Col. Ghayath, dir. of the Samarra Joint Coordination Center (SJCC), while waiting for the sun to set, Aug. 29. The 2 men have a regular working partnership that involves visiting each other for coordination meetings at least once a week, but this evening Preston visited the SJCC to share an Iftar dinner with Ghayath.

SAMARRA – The air is rich with the smell of charcoal and seasoned meat. Onions, peppers, and tomatoes cook alongside ground chuck on an outdoor grill, attracting men of all ages to critique, compliment, and provide “constructive criticism” to the chef.

They tell jokes, talk about their wives and children, and argue about sports, while their dinner sizzles in the flames. A golden-colored dog approaches, hoping to take advantage of a discussion that’s distracting the men from the delicious meat.

Suddenly a middle-aged man in a T-shirt, shorts, and flip flops turns towards the dog and points away. “Rufus, imshee!,” he said in a soft but stern voice. Rufus the guard dog, who apparently understands Arabic, obeys.

While this scene may have looked like any average Labor Day barbeque in the U.S., it's actually the cooking of an Iftar dinner at the Joint Coordination Center in Samarra, Salah ah Din prov.

The man in the board shorts is Lt. Col. Ghayath, who the U.S. Army officers around the grill have never seen in anything but a perfectly starched and pressed uniform. When the sun sets, this will be his first meal since before dawn this morning.

During Ramadan, Muslim men and women fast during daylight hours. Every day this month, Ghayth ignores the 115-degree heat, and doesn’t eat food or drink water until after the sun sets. The meal which breaks this fast is called the “Iftar,” and it’s usually reserved as a time for families to join together and celebrate the holiest month of the year in the Islamic faith.

Alhough this isn’t the first Iftar dinner for Lt. Col. Preston, it’s definitely the most meaningful. As the cmdr of all U.S. forces in a 3,000 km area of ops, he attended a dinner the day before for mayors, sheiks, general officers and colonels of the U.S. Army, AF, IA and IP. “It’s hard to get the feeling that you're eating with family, when you have 100 people around you,” Preston said to Ghayath, who sat next to him during the meal.

Here though, the spirit of the Iftar dinner is real. For soldiers whose blood relatives are on the opposite side of the world, the IA soldiers who join them for meals, guard shifts, and patrols are family. “Here at the SJCC, we're one family, one team,” Ghayath said to Preston.

The brotherhood between the armies is evident between these 2 leaders, who spend the rest of the evening eating a sumptuous feast, drinking more sugary chai than could possibly be healthy, and talking about everything, from Turkish mafia shows to the formation of the Iraqi govt.

They’ve shared meals before, but this is the first time they’ve prepared it together with their own hands. “I’m convinced that grills were invented because it was the only way women could get men to cook,” Preston commented, turning a kabob.

Preston told his friend a story about how his wife likes hosting guests back home, because she knows he'll always fire up the grill. A knowing smile spreads on Ghayath’s face. “It always seems to taste better when you cook it yourself,” the Iraqi lt. col. added.

Hours after the last rays of light fade over the Tigris River, the 2 men and their subordinate officers are still awake, enjoying the fellowship that exists between brothers- in-arms. Tomorrow will be a ‘New Dawn’ for Iraq, but tonight is the Iftar; tonight is a time for family.

Lt. Col. Ghayath (top left) and Lt. Col. Andrew Preston (bottom left) are joined by IA, U.S. Army officers, and interpreters in the Iftar dinner.

Lt. Col. Andrew Preston helps cook kabobs.

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Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/9-09

Dear Interested Reader,

Texas ADT Ghazni empowers men/women through Livestock, Husbandry Education program. ANBP receive drivers training at Camp Shaheen. Elusive Taliban cmdr. captured. "Voices of Moderate Islam" initiative first-ever program. Ghazni PRT performs first village assessment in Nani. Afghan Soldiers add mortars to repertoire at Range Juarez.

Iraq: Female Iraqi Soldier becomes U.S. citizen. Band continues mission COB Basra.

Joanna

________________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

Texas ADT empowers men/women, with livestock training

Story and photos by AF 1st Lt. Katherine Roling, Ghazni PRT

Army Spc. Jaylon Hallford holds an Afghan girl on his arm while he and the Texas ADT wait for the helicopter to pick them up, Aug. 29 in Kilan Deh village. The ADT spent a few hours on the ground to observe a livestock training class in Jaghori District. Meanwhile, the children and adults were intrigued by the Soldiers, wanting photographs and handshakes to thank them for coming to their remote village.

GHAZNI PROVINCE - Children and adults from Kilan Deh village ran out to greet Soldiers from the Texas ADT, once they unloaded off the CH-47 Chinook helicopter.

The team flew out to this particular village for the first time to observe a livestock husbandry education program, that was contracted out to an Afghan co.

“Each district can train up to 100 people, and 50% have to be women,” said Army 1st Lt. Matt Machacek, a rangeland specialist. “The program has been going on for about a year now.”

Locals are encouraged to attend by receiving 2 sheep to start their own livestock ops, but they have to take the class. Consequently, the class has become so popular that Dr. Tuba Safi, a female instructor with the co., selected by the ADT, told the team that more people are attending her classes, despite the fact that they'll only receive certificates instead of sheep, as was done in the past. Originally, the classes were designed for 25 people over a 40-hour period.

While the Texas ADT watched a class in session, the students, all females, asked for similar training during the winter, since there wasn’t much to do in those months. With the Afghans craving more education, the team is looking into more options to present to Ghazni Prov. “Now people know the value of knowledge,” Safi said, explaining how popular the classes have become. “It’s the key for opening the door to a bright future.”

On this particular day, women were in class learning how TB can be transferred from animals to humans, and how it can be transferred between animals when they share eating and drinking locations. Army Maj. Stephanie Normand, an integrated pest mgt officer, thanked the female students for attending the livestock training.

“It takes more than just 2 sheep to change your lives; this is the first step in empowering you, your families and your entire community, and getting Afghanistan back to being the country you're all very proud of,” Normand said.

Machacek, after witnessing a class in session, told Safi that he was impressed with the training in Kilan Deh village. “I was glad we could come see you today. I appreciate your work,” he said. “We teach basic livestock husbandry training, but also with the course we incorporate hygiene training for all the students. Safi does a great job teaching the females about some of their basic rights. This class is really more than just livestock lessons.”

Afghan women in Kilan Deh village sit through a class on basic livestock husbandry. The Texas ADT funds the western Ghazni Province Livestock Husbandry Education Program that trains 150 women and 150 men basic livestock and hygiene skills throughout Nawur, Malistan and Jaghori districts.

1st Lt. Matt Machacek, rangeland specialist, takes a seat on the floor to talk to Kilan Deh villagers.

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RC-North

Afghan National Border Police Receive Drivers Training

Story by Spc. Blair Neelands

Members of the Afghan National Border Police watch as Sgt. 1st Class James Williams from the 1st BSTB shows them how to check the various fluid levels on the HMMWV. As part of the drivers training, the 10th Mtn Div soldiers teach the ANBP the importance of preventative maintenance checks and services (PMCS).

CAMP SHAHEEN – Members of the ANBP learned how to maintain and operate the High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV) Aug. 23 to 25, as part of a training exercise geared to hone their security skills and create a quick reaction force (QRF).

Dubbed Op Northern Shield, the ANBP were partnered with Soldiers from the 10th Mtn Div’s 1st BSTB. “Eventually they'll develop 3 companies of QRF for along the border,” said 2nd Lt. Eric Mangol, the plt leader with Alpha Co’s 2nd plt. The area these ANBP patrol is along the country’s border with Uzbekistan.

“The first day was a general overview of the vehicle, safety, PMCS and recovery,” Mangol said. “The next day we let them self-conduct PMCS. They did roll-over drills, fire drills, and basic driving. The third day was basic driving and advanced driving.”

Many members of the ANBP receiving the training had no experience driving any type of vehicle. Now they were getting behind the wheel of an up-armored truck weighing more than 12,000-lbs. Although they required a little extra time at the wheel, the instructors said they were able to grasp the training.

“Once we taught them the basics of the controls – they picked it all up very quickly,” said Cpl. Thomas Butler, a team leader and driving instructor. “This went pretty well, but next time I’d like to give them more stick time and a little more ground guiding,” said Staff Sgt. William Pitts, a squad leader and instructor.

Mangol and his platoon will continue to conduct this driver’s training course each month for the rest of their deployment in Afghanistan.

Members of the ANBP watch as Sgt. Steve Werner, a mechanic, explains the importance of cleaning the HMMWV’s air filter.

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DVIDS

ANSF, TF Iron Soldiers capture elusive Taliban commander

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

Soldiers from Co C, 3rd Bn, 187th Inf Regt, 101st AD patrol the Sharana Bazaar, Aug. 21. The Rakkasan Soldiers are part of TF Iron who recently caught a Taliban cmdr., known only as Attullah, responsible for dozens of attacks on CF and local Afghans. (Photos by Army Spc. Lorenzo Ware)

PAKTIKA PROVINCE – Attullah has a long history of insurgency. He has conducted a variety of insurgent ops throughout Paktika Prov., and is believed to be responsible for the attack that killed Army Sgt. Vincent Owens in March 2010.

His fighters were known to target district centers and bazaars, where his attacks killed and wounded dozens of local Afghans, including women and children. “TF Iron Rakkasan has aggressively tracked the movements of Attullah since the battalion first assumed combat ops in West Paktika Prov.,” said 1st Lt. Marcus Smith, ops officer.

“On multiple occasions, our intel reports would pinpoint Attullah’s location, and we would immediately launch an air assault op to catch him.” Despite their best efforts, the determined Soldiers seemed to miss Attullah time after time. After several weeks of pursuit, Attullah went into hiding in neighboring Pakistan, hoping U.S. forces would give up the hunt.

By mid-August, Attullah was back, and began rallying insurgents once again. One of his first orders of business was planning a rocket attack on FOB Sharana. Fortunately, nearly 50 ANP with the assistance of Soldiers from 3rd Bn, thwarted the attack by locating and destroying the rockets.

The hunt for Attullah was on again. In the early morning hours of Aug. 31, U.S. forces received several reports of Attullah’s location. Determined to net the slippery leader, TF Iron rapidly initiated an air assault op, and mobilized ground forces and additional assets to ensure their success.

As the Afghan and U.S. forces were thoroughly searching the targeted house, they found a clear tube protruding from one of the walls. When they pulled a pile of pillows away from the wall, they found Attullah cowering in a hole hidden in the wall.

“It was a great feat to capture this volatile insurgent,” said Afghan Brig. Gen. Yaseem, chief of the Afghan National Directorate of Security. “We'll continue our ops against the remains of his insurgent cell, as well as any insurgent that attempts to replace Attullah.”

Two rockets sit hidden in a stand of trees, poised to strike FOB Sharana, were discovered and destroyed.

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RC East, Bagram Media Center

Voices of Moderate Islam initiative first-ever program

Written by TF Bayonet PA

A group of Afghans chosen for the Voices of Moderate Islam (VOMI) initiative, wait to board a U.S. AF C-130 Hercules aircraft for a seminar in Amman, Jordan, and then on to Mecca, Saudi Arabia. The program is a joint effort between the 173rd ABCT, Afghan, U.S. and Jordanian govts, to demonstrate respect for Islam and Afghan culture, as well as empowering the participants to return and share their experiences with the people of Afghanistan. (Photos by Army Pfc. Michael Sword)

LOGAR PROVINCE – Thirty-four local Afghan leaders from the civic, social and security fields from Logar and Wardak provs. kicked off the initial phase of the VOMI program, the first initiative of its kind in Afghanistan.

VOMI participants transported to Amman, Jordan for the 2nd phase of the program - a comprehensive seminar experience, with a focus on exposing the attendees to Islam in the context of a modern Jordanian society.

The idea for the program was developed by TF Bayonet and TF Nashmi, the Jordanian Ranger Bn attached to TF Bayonet. The initiative is sponsored by U.S. Embassy Kabul, U.S. Embassy Amman, and in partnership with the Jordanian Hashemite Charity Org. As part of the capstone experience, and following the seminar phase in Amman, the Jordanian govt is facilitating the attendees’ participation in the Umra, or lesser Hajj, in Mecca, Saudi Arabia.

The Amman portion, which is ongoing, consists of lectures from prominent Islamic culture and religious scholars from the Hashemite Charity Org., the Islamic University of Jordan, U.S. Embassy Amman and the Jordanian Armed Forces Director of iftar.

The experience includes visits to significant culture sites common to Islam, Judaism and Christianity. “Just after they arrived in Amman, King Abdullah II of Jordan paid the attendees a significant honor by hosting them for an evening Ramadan meal,” said Army Maj. Matthew Yandura, bde info ops officer, for the 173rd, who co-planned the event. “The attendees will never forget the respect that was shown to them by King Abdullah.”

After conducting the Umra, the participants will return to Logar and Wardak provs. for phase III, during which they will share the experience with their families, friends and colleagues in Afghanistan.

Army Col. Jim Johnson, cmdr of the 173rd ABCT, encouraged the participants to get the most out of the experience. “This will be, no doubt, a life changing event for all of you. May you remember all that you will see, and return home and share it with your family and friends, so that they may benefit from what you've learned,” said Johnson.

“This is an historic event on so many levels,” said Yandura. “While the insurgents have claimed that CF are here to interfere with Islam, we demonstrate to the Afghan people that we respect their faith, and we respect them. This initiative has the potential to change the dialogue here for years to come – perhaps generations to come.”

Shaikh Mohammed Najm, TF Nashmi’s senior cleric said, “There are people who are using Islam and the political and social challenges that we're facing here to bring violence to Afghanistan. This program will counter that effort.”

“We believe that this initiative will help Afghans gain a new perspective on their faith and culture and our respect for both,” said John Lister, The TF Bayonet’s senior U.S. State Dept civilian.

A group of Afghans chosen for the Voices of Moderate Islam initiative, wait to board an aircraft for a seminar in Amman, Jordan, and then on to Mecca, Saudi Arabia.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Ghazni PRT performs first village assessment in Nani

Photos by AF Tech Sgt. JT May III, Ghazni PRT

GHAZNI PROVINCE – Ghazni PRT civil affairs members greet villagers from Nani Village, and perform a village assessment, Aug. 30. The village was the very first visit by the PRT.

Navy Chief Petty Officer James Carnes, Ghazni PRT admin. NCO-in-charge, posts security during an assessment in Nani Village.

Army Staff Sgt. Anthony King, Ghazni PRT SECFOR member, checks the freshness of a watermelon.

An Afghan young man crouches in his shop while waiting for potential customers.

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DVIDS

Afghan Soldiers Build Warrior Skill Set, Add Mortars to Repertoire

Story by Sgt. Mark Fayloga

Lance Cpl. Cole. Jenks, a mortarman with Combined Action Co, 3rd Bn, 3rd Marine Regt, shows ANA soldier Nazef how to set the fuse on a 60 mm high-explosive mortar round, during a mission rehearsal, Aug. 28, 2010.

RANGE JUAREZ — The U.S. Marine and the Afghan soldier may speak different languages, but as 60 mm high-explosive mortar rounds sailed through the air eventually reaching their fiery conclusion a few hundred meters away, the men reacted the same way — with awe and motivation, brothers in a warrior culture.

The company is comprised of Marines and sailors from 3/3’s Lima and HQ Companies, and Afghan soldiers. The men train and conduct combat ops alongside one another.
The mission rehearsal was a welcomed training opportunity for the company’s joint weapons section. Before coming together 6 weeks ago, the majority of the Afghan soldiers training had been with their rifles.

"They haven’t done much training with crew-served weapons, and the majority of them have never fired high-explosive mortars," said Sgt. Alan Smith, weapons section leader. Smith said that the Marines have the Afghan soldiers run through firing drills almost daily, but the routine can become monotonous. Firing live rounds is a rare opportunity. “It’s a good experience for them to get a dose of motivation,” Smith said.

Afghan soldier Din Mohamad especially appreciated the motivation. The last time Din fired mortars was more than a year ago, and before the training, he’d never gotten the chance to shoot high-explosive rounds. “I liked firing the HE rounds,” said Din. “We’ve learned a lot. The training is very good and we’re thankful to work with the Marines.”

Sgt. Alan Smith and Lance Cpl. Cole Jenks, a section leader and mortarman (respectively), wait for approval to fire.

Afghan Army soldier Din Mohamad observes as Lance Cpl. Cletus Eicher, a mortarman, sets a direction of fire.

Lance Cpl. Cletus Eicher and Din Mohamad swab a mortar tube.

Din Mohamad fires a 60 mm high-explosive mortar round.

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IRAQI STORIES:

DVIDS

Iraqi Female Soldier Becomes U.S. Citizen

Story by Natalie Cole

Spc. Aseel Sulaman, an Arabic-English interpreter in the Army, smiles as she receives her U.S. citizenship in a naturalization ceremony on Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, Sept. 2.

CAMP ARIFJAN, Kuwait - Army Spc. Aseel Sulaman is a bridge of sorts. She translates words and ideas between Iraqi and American soldiers, groups of speakers who are often worlds apart. Now, Sulaman has crossed a bridge of her own. Born in Iraq, Sulaman is one of 8 soldiers who became a U.S. citizen in a naturalization ceremony on Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, Sept. 2.

For Sulaman, becoming an American felt like a natural step. “I've always felt like I’ve been a U.S. citizen. It’s the country of freedom and opportunity, and that’s everything I believe in,” she said.

Sulaman holds 2 Bachelor’s degrees, one of them in linguistics and translation. The bilingual turned her knowledge of languages into a career working for the U.S. in the early years of OIF. “I was hired by the U.S. Army to support the Iraqi Ground Forces Training Mission, and I stayed there for 3 years. I served in several capacities before and after, and then I worked for the U.S. State Dept,” she said.

After her experiences as a contracted linguist, she felt it was time to serve side-by-side with the people she was translating for. “I decided to join the Army because that’s basically one thing I could do to pay back for everything – all the great things the Army has given me,” she said.

Currently, Sulaman is assigned as a translator for soldiers training Iraqi troops at the Umm Qasr Port in Iraq. With the beginning of Op. New Dawn this month, Sulaman’s language skills will support the advise and assist mission of the Army.

Becoming a citizen and serving as a U.S. soldier has strengthened Sulaman’s resolve to reach her goals. “I do have lots of future goals. The most important one is that our mission in Iraq has to succeed. It’s my home country and I want my new home country to do what we need to do over there to complete the mission, to bring freedom and prosperity to Iraq, and to go back home victorious,” she said. “That’s the mission that I’ve always believed in, and that’s the mission that I’m serving and will always serve.”

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NewsBlaze

Since their arrival in January, the band has completed more than 400 missions throughout USD-S.

Sgt. Michelle Spinazzola and Spc. Jonathan Akhondi, the lead vocalists of Controlled Detonation, sing during a rehearsal, while Staff Sgt. Gregory Hyson accompanies them on his guitar.

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Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/ 9-08

Dear Interested Reader,

Teamwork defends COP Badel from insurgency. TFs discuss provincial security before elections. CF return to village hit by suicide bomber. Kentucky ADT visits Al-Bironi University in Kapisa prov. Prevention medicine keeps Soldiers in the fight.

Iraq: 1-30 Inf. Regt. provide school supplies in Layla prov. IA EOD training on Portable X-Ray Unit. Border Enforcement instructors graduate medic course.

Joanna

________________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Teamwork defends COP Badel from insurgency

Story and photos by Army Staff Sgt. Gary Witte

Brass shells fly as Army Sgt. Joseph Khamvongsa, a forward observer with 1st Plt, Co B, 2nd Bn, 327th Inf Regt, TF No Slack, returns fire against an Aug. 25 insurgent attack on COP Badel. The enemy attacked at dusk with small arms and RPGs against the base. Neither ISAF nor ANSF were injured during the assault.

KUNAR PROVINCE – COP Badel lacks many things, but enemy fire isn’t one of them.

The primitive hilltop base overlooks broad valley floors, yet exists in the shadows of larger mountains, and the hostility of insurgents who would tear it down.

1st Lt. Rob Schenker said, "the enemy attacks the outpost an average of 7 times a week. Quiet days or evenings often erupt with automatic weapons fire, and the explosive crash of mortar rounds. Schenker, who commands 1st Plt, said, "the fights are common enough that nearby residents sometimes don’t even bother to take cover."

An ANA plt share the responsibility of guarding the base, which sits near the opening of the Narang Valley. This territory, in turn, connects the area with the infamous Korengal Valley and its crop of insurgent fighters.

ISAF and the ANA placed the base here to help stem the flow of this enemy activity southward into the more populated Kunar Valley. “It’s pretty much the tip of the spear,” Schenker said.

Living a combat lifestyle: Forget the Internet; forget running water. The Soldiers at COP Badel are happy to finally have electricity. There are no phone lines, no televisions and no dining facilities. The closest thing to a recreation area contains a few pieces of weight equipment and a lifting bench protected by sandbags. Flies are a constant annoyance.

Most of the troops here live in crowded bunkers constructed from sandbags or dirt-filled Hesco barriers. At the end of July, U.S. Army engrs ran electricity to the bunkers and added lights and a/c inside – creating a huge morale boost for the Soldiers. Spc. Andrew Barnett described daily life prior to the arrival of a/c as “hardcore camping meets a 2-way shooting range.”

Barnett, a former military firefighter who now works as a gunner, described their unit as “easygoing, but aggressive” which has learned to deal with the combination of long stretches of boredom and intense firefights.

Meals are either pre-packaged rations or food cooked by the Soldiers themselves over handmade fires. Occasionally, the meals are rounded out by fresh fruit brought from nearby COP Fortress. Despite the lack of comforts, many of the Soldiers said they'd rather be stationed here, than a more populated base elsewhere. Here, they can concentrate on their jobs without the distractions that can come with a large military post.

“Time goes by a lot quicker,” said Pfc. Stephen Millington. “We’re always busy.”
Millington, a 22-year-old ammo bearer, said 1st plt has a wide variety of experience, with its members coming from places such as Mississippi, California and Mexico. He said they spend much of their time joking about each other’s background.

Their plt is not the only one that serves at COP Badel. In order for the Soldiers to experience an occasional shower and online contact with their friends and families, the other plts from Co B temporarily switch out and run the base for a few days.

Vigilance pays dividends: The Soldiers at COP Badel stand a constant guard against the enemy. In addition to concrete watchtowers, they use heavily armored vehicles, and remote cameras to monitor activity around the base. The post also serves as a staging area for large-scale ops against insurgents in the Narang Valley. When the unit isn’t dealing with firefights, it often goes into the community and works with the local govt to strengthen its ties with residents.

Upgrades to the base defenses are a constant effort. Since the enemy can shoot at Solders from any number of hidden positions on the nearby mountainside, the unit has added numerous sandbag barriers in a variety of locations on the post. “We try to make it so we have places to go, no matter where they’re firing from,” said Cpl. Luke Starkey.

The U.S. Soldiers are required to wear all their protective gear anytime they make the steep hike up or down the hill. "Of course, since those Soldiers have less cover on the rock-strewn hillside, they've fewer choices when the shooting starts," Starkey said. “You can run up or run down,” he said with a smile.

Starkey, who serves as a team leader, said that the fact their plt is responsible for its own security, allows the Soldiers to more easily share their input on any needed changes. “We all rely on each other to survive,” he said. “It’s a team effort to keep this place running.”

COP Badel.

An Afghan soldier stands watch atop COP Badel.

From left, Cpl. Mark Jennings and Spc. Ryan Quattlebaum, both team leaders, provide security for a unit visit to Kutgay village.

1st Lt. Rob Schenker talks to residents of Kutgay village.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

TFs discuss provincial security before elections

Photos by Army Spc. Richard Daniels Jr., TF Bastogne

NANGARHAR PROVINCE – ANSF and ISAF discuss the security of upcoming elections in the Nangarhar, Nuristan, Kunar and Laghman provs. with members of RC- East at FOB Fenty, Aug. 30.

Col. Andrew Poppas, TF Bastogne cmdr, greets Afghan Brig. Gen. Afzal, before discussing the security of the upcoming elections.

Afghan Gen. Zarman, Afghan Border Police (ABP), and Afghan Brig. Gen Nawad, Kunar ANP Security Rep, ANSF and ISAF discuss security concerns of the upcoming elections.

Army Maj. David Kaczmarek, the info ops officer-in-charge, Army Col. Andrew Poppas, and senior civilian rep Kate Bynes, U.S. Dept of State rep, discuss security concerns with ANSF.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Coalition forces return to village hit by suicide bomber

Photos by Army Staff Sgt. Gary Witte

KUNAR PROVINCE - Army 1st Lt. James Horne, a plt leader with Co A, 2nd Bn, 327th Inf Regt, TF No Slack, talks to a resident of Lar Sholtan village, Aug. 21. Two months previously, a female suicide bomber killed 2 Soldiers with the unit and seriously wounded 2 others, 3 Afghan police officers, and at least 5 children in the village. This marked the first visit to the community by ISAF since the attack.

Army Spc. Adam Lopez, a team leader with Co A, provides security during a visit to Lar Sholtan village.

Staff Sgt. Tracey Allen, a squad leader, consults with his plt leader about security during a visit to Lar Sholtan village.

1st Lt. James Horne, a plt leader, shakes hands with a resident of Lar Sholtan village.

From center, Spc. Asa Holm, a medic, and 1st Lt. James Horne, examine the medical supplies available to the clinic. The unit made arrangements to provide the clinic with its spare medical supplies.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Kentucky ADT checks in on Al-Bironi University

Photos by Army Sgt. 1st Class Peter Ferrell, TF Wolverine

KAPISA PROVINCE – Army Lt. Col. Garland Goodrich, team leader of the Kentucky ADT, and Mohammad Tahiry, the horticulture farm mgr. at Al-Bironi University, discuss the growth and irrigation of the vegetables at the University, Aug. 23. Goodrich, a peanut farmer, visited the University with the KY ADT to discuss current and future projects.

Lt. Col. Goodrich takes a photo in a cultivated garden at Al-Bironi University, with vegetables ready to harvest.

Army Col. James Mathews, cmdr of the Kentucky ADT, and Chancellor Abdul Rashid of Al-Bironi University, shake hands after Mathews presents him with a cmdr’s coin. Mathews and Rashid discussed how the ADT could help continue ongoing projects with the university.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Preventive medicine keeps Soldiers in the fight

Written by Army 1st Lt. Emily Baker, TF Taskmaster

Army Pvt. Joseph Villanueva, a preventive medicine (PM) tech with Co C, 426th BSB, TF Bastogne, prepares to test water samples for harmful chemicals at FOB Fenty, Aug. 31. (Photos by Army Spc. Albert Kelley)

NANGARHAR PROVINCE – “Mosquitoes, ants, and wasps, oh my!” The unforgiving terrain of the Nangarhar, Nuristan, Konar and Laghman provs. in eastern Afghanistan hosts hoards of insects and wildlife that create quite a hairy situation when it comes to cohabitating with troops. However, the Soldiers of the PM section of Charlie Co, see “combat” with these creatures on a daily basis.

What is the worst vector problem pestering Soldiers in a deployed environment? “Flies! We have tons of flies and mosquitoes, and mosquitoes are so much worse, because it’s harder to see them,” said Army Capt. Susan Gosine, officer-in-charge of PM at FOB Fenty, in Jalalabad.

Although vector control accounts for a large portion of the issues that PM handles, it's not the only concern of Gosine. She is, overall, responsible for the environmental safety of the FOB’s residents, including living conditions, food preparation and water.

Mosquitoes and sand flies present a particular challenge, because they can be carriers of vector-borne diseases such as Malaria. Soldiers deployed overseas are directed to take medication to prevent them from contracting the disease, though many Soldiers forget to take their pills. There were 29 cases of Malaria reported in 2009, mostly due to Soldiers forgetting to take their prescribed antibiotics. “I specifically want to emphasize Malaria awareness,” said Army Lt. Col. Joseph Llanos, a PM doctor for the 101st AD, based out of Bagram Airfield. The highest risk for servicemembers is during the months of Aug. and Sept.

PM is extremely important to troops in a field situation. If war fighters are not kept fit to fight, then their ability to accomplish the mission is greatly degraded. That's why Gosine and her team regularly visit outlying COPs and FOBs in the TF Bastogne area of ops.

“Well, if you consider past wars, PM is very important, because you can lose troops to something as simple as diarrhea,” said Gosine. Even the common cold can be a combat degrader, but signs in the dining facility and the latrines remind Soldiers to practice good personal hygiene techniques.

Pvt. Joseph Villanueva, a PM tech, labels water samples which will be tested for harmful chemicals.

Capt. Susan Gosine views bacteria through a microscope.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

IED attacks not going well for Taliban fighters

GHAZNI – ANSF and ISAF Soldiers from TF White Eagle and Brawler killed 5 Taliban IED emplacers Sep. 2, during combat ops in the Andar District. An ISAF air weapons team observed the 5 Taliban fighters emplacing an IED, made a positive ID and engaged them, killing all 5.

The site was investigated and the Taliban bodies were turned over to ANP, while the IED, the command wire, and several RPGs were destroyed in place.

This failed emplacement follows another failed attack that occurred Sep. 1, in Khowst District located in Khowst Prov. In this attempted suicide attack, a Taliban fighter accelerated a vehicle toward an ISAF route clearance patrol operating in the area. When the vehicle’s driver attempted to detonate his VBIED, only the initiation device exploded, killing him instantly, but not setting off the IED. The vehicle was cordoned off by ANSF and ISAF forces, setting up a 300-meter safety zone, and destroyed with a controlled detonation. No damage or injuries were reported.

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IRAQI STORIES:

Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq

1-30 Infantry Regiment Provide School Supplies

Photos by Spc. Charles Smith

LAYLA - Army Pvt. Jesse Bryant assigned to Alpha Co, 1st Bn, 30th Inf Regt, 2nd Bde, 3rd ID and Iraqi SF member leave the small village of Rjebat, Aug. 18. U.S. and Iraqi forces provided students with necessary materials for school.

Iraqi SF carry school supplies to a school in the small village of Rjebat, Aug. 18.

Pvt. Jesse Bryant provides security during the visit.

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Joint Combat Camera Center Iraq

IA EOD training on Portable X-Ray Unit

Photos by Spc. Charles Smith

KIRKUK - IA EOD learns how to operate a Portable X-Ray Unit during EOD training, Sept. 1, when they're in the field in support of Operation New Dawn.

IA soldier measures the distance on a Portable X-Ray Unit, to ensure the correct length for the best picture.

IA EOD learn how to assemble and operate a Portable X-Ray Unit.

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USF-I

Border Enforcement Instructors Graduate Medic Course

Photo by Sgt. Michael Carden

Iraqi instructors at Diwaniyah Directorate of Border Enforcement Training Center practice administering intravenous fluids at a combat life saver course, jointly conducted by a partnership of U.S. forces, and the DBE's 5th Region's Training Command, August 30.

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Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/9-07

Dear Interested Reader,

First TF Wolverine Female Soldier earns CAB. Soldiers partner to delier supplies to orphanage in Kabul. Female Afghan PC member visits U.S., details visit. Michigan NG Unit supports communications. Soldiers from Patrol Base Jaker acquire supplies for 1st day of school.

Iraq: Top Airman exits Iraq proud of mission. USAF transfer northern airspace to GoI. Border enforcement instructors graduate medic course.

Joanna

_________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

DVIDS

First TF Wolverine Female Soldier Earns CAB
Story by Pfc. Roy Mercon

Army Sgt. Nicole Seitz, an MP officer for Troop B, 1st Regt, 172nd Sqdrn, poses with her M-4 Carbine, July 1. Seitz is the first TF Wolverine female soldier to earn a Combat Action Badge. Seitz , who works as veterinary tech as a civilian, received her CAB during a joint patrol, when her unit received small-arms fire. “Getting this CAB just shows that there indeed are females out here, too,” said Seitz. “In fact, combat is the reason I became an MP in the first place. I wanted to do as much as I could for my country.”
PARWAN PROVINCE - 9-03-10 – The sounds of combat are nothing new to Sgt. Nicole Seitz, who served in her first combat deployment to Iraq in 2004. But, while on a joint security patrol with ANP, April 11, those sounds were a lot closer, as the patrol was attacked by small-arms fire.
As a result of this attack, Seitz, an MP officer with HHC, 86th BSTB, 86th IBCT, became the first female soldier in the TF to earn the CAB for the bde’s deployment to Afghanistan. “After all the training and my other tour, I’m kind of desensitized from the initial shock, and am able to do my job better because of it,” said Seitz.
Seitz doesn’t scare easily. As a driver during the attack, she took directions from the truck cmdr., on how to position the vehicle while another vehicle returned fire, which suppressed the insurgent fire. Then, the ANP forces with the patrol immediately attempted to pursue the insurgent who fled the scene when Troop B returned fire. Unfortunately, the insurgent escaped capture that time.

Joint patrols with the ANP are a major part of TF Wolverine’s mission to help improve the ANSF’ competence, capacity and credibility in a unified effort to protect the local population. TF Wolverine relies on well-trained soldiers to serve as mentors for the ANSF regardless of gender.
This is not the first ‘first’ Seitz has under her belt as a female in the Army. She was also the first female in the entire Army to qualify in the use of the Javelin Anti-Tank Missile system.
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DVIDS

Soldiers Partner to Deliver Supplies to Orphanage

Story and photo by Sgt. Rebecca Linder

Lt. Col. Afgania, an ANA Soldier, talks to a group of girls from the Maihan Orphanage, Kabul, Aug. 31, 2010, in Kabul. Afgania and other ANA Soldiers partnered with U.S. Soldiers stationed at Camp Phoenix to deliver blankets, shoes, clothes, school supplies and toys to the children as part of the Op Outreach-Afghanistan program (OOA).

CAMP PHOENIX – “Healing hearts and minds” of the Afghan people is the motto of OOA program. Six containers filled with toys, blankets, shoes, clothes and school supplies were delivered to the Afghan children who live at the Maihan Orphanage.

“I was so surprised to see them here delivering the gifts,” said Angela Nibler, Maihan Orphanage volunteer. “We saw the army vehicles and I was scared for a second, but once we realized what was going on we were so excited and grateful. The children are so happy.”

About 245 boys and girls who live at 5 different buildings throughout the orphanage are without a home due to loss of parents from the war, insufficient living conditions, or simply because their parents cannot support them.

“Being part of Op Outreach, and going on the mission to the orphanage was the most fulfilling event of my tour so far,” said Michael Webb, co. cmdr. of HHC, 196th Maneuver Enhancement Bde (MEB), S. Dakota Army NG. “Working with Soldiers from other units, the ANA, and the Afghan locals in coordinating this event, and coming together as a team for a common goal is really what it’s all about.”

Putting smiles on the children’s faces is something that OOA continues to do. Soldiers here volunteer their time throughout the week to ensure the program runs smoothly, and the Afghan citizens receive the donations that American families send over here.

“That’s a big part of following the counterinsurgency (COIN) strategy; assisting the Afghan population and helping to take care of their needs, especially the children,” said Webb. “The children’s faces said it all, and is something I'll never forget.”

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DVIDS

Female Afghan PC Member Visits U.S., Details Her Visit
Story by 1st Lt. Katherine Roling

Hamidi Gulistani is 1 of 4 female Ghazni Provincial Council (PC) members in a 19-member council, the only elected body of officials in Ghazni. She was selected to participate in a Dept of State professional exchange program, called the International Visitors Leadership Program (IVLP), which introduces current and emerging foreign leaders to American experiences with issues such as democracy, governance, law enforcement and provision of administrative services. Gulistani sat down with the Ghazni PRT, Aug. 31 and told them what she learned during her 3-week trip in July to the U.S.

GHAZNI - Hamidi Gulistani visited 6 different U.S cities. During her time in the U.S., Gulistani said that she learned several things. “In the U.S. I saw a lot of transparency in orgs. and depts.,” Gulistani said through an interpreter. “Business cards and websites added transparency to the orgs. I met.”
Women’s rights were also different between the 2 countries, and she felt Afghan women had more constitutional rights than American women. “There are fewer women in executive positions with the orgs in the U.S., at least with the non-governmental orgs. I met,” she said. “I only saw one female in a high level position, and she was a judge. There weren’t many female U.S. senators. In Afghanistan," Gulistani mentioned, "it's obligatory for 25% of parliamentary members to be women.
Another thing she noticed was the scenery. In all the pictures she had seen of the U.S., she was only familiar with the cities and large populations. The time she spent traveling between different cities, including Washington; Salt Lake City, Utah; Chicago, Ill.; Freeport, Ill.; Albany, N.Y.; and New York City, changed that image for her. “I thought the U.S. would be more industrial, but it was very green,” she said.
As a group, the foreign leaders were able to talk about their provs., share info and even pray together. Gulistani visited an American mosque, where she met a mullah from Kandahar. She explained how security was in Ghazni, and he was sad to hear that her prov. was still experiencing insurgent activities like threats and IEDs.
While meeting different people and watching them at work, Gulistani was impressed with the work ethic of most Americans, commenting on the intensity of their focus. “When it was time to work, there was no time for joking around,” she laughed.
"But, the strangest thing," she mentioned, "was how Americans laugh, smile and hug a lot. They’re very supportive. It seemed like one brotherhood, even between non-religious and religious people, or even between families and non-families.”
"The nature of American hospitality was still very different than that of Afghan hospitality," she noted. “I noticed that most Americans just say ‘hi’ and then go, but I also learned that American families want to support Afghan families.”
With humanitarian aid an active topic, she asked the PRT to help deliver items to the people. “The humanitarian aid orgs. that I met said that they have stuff to give Afghans, but they can’t get it to the people. They need the PRT’s help,” she said.
The PRT asked Gulistani if she had brought back any souvenirs from her trip in the U.S. “I brought a lot of stuff from Ghazni like flags, carpets and scarves in a big suitcase,” she said. “But I brought back double the amount of souvenirs than I left with.”
Gulistani’s voice became more somber when she brought up corruption in the govt and what the IVLP team taught the participants. “I’ve learned how to fight against corruption,” she said. “They taught me how to fight it.”
Upon returning to Afghanistan, she faced several challenges. Some of the men on the provincial council, called her an American spy for visiting the U.S. In addition to derision from some of her fellow male colleagues, she told the PRT that someone from the Taliban had put 400,000 Afghanis on her head, to scare her into quitting her job as a female PC member.
“I wanted to tell them, instead of paying 400,000 Afghanis to kill me, give that money to the villages instead,” she said. The PRT asked if she was scared after that threat. “No,” she said, shaking her head. “I am not scared.”

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DVIDS

Michigan National Guard Unit Supports Communications

Story by Spc. Jason Boyd

Capt. Labarra and 1st Sgt. Procotor stand next to their unit sign, at Bagram Air field, Sept. 3, 2010.
BAGRAM AIR FIELD -- “Charlie Co. also known as TF Wolverine provides signal support to a number of multi-national TF patrols throughout the Parwan prov.,” said Sgt. 1st Class William Procotor. “Our unit runs the brigade help desk, 2 data communications shops, the joint node network, and all of the command post nodes that support theatre communications”.
One of the unit’s missions is to support and train the S. Korean PRT. The S. Koreans should be able to take over the op completely by this fal,l and begin training a group from Malaysia that will be arriving to help support the mission.
Not only does the unit of approx 50 soldiers monitor all of Bagram airfield’s communication networks and satellite hubs in the area, they also support a number of other missions to include, signal support of FOB Blessing, a base cabling team, and the Delta Co. BSB motor pool.
The unit’s morale is high, and they're working hard every day to ensure that communications continue to run.
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DVIDS
Forces Acquire Supplies for First Day of School
Story by Sgt. Mark Fayloga

Master Sgt. Sean Sargeant and Maj. John Rinaldi, from the 3rd Civil Affairs Group (CAG), unload school supplies with help from Afghans at Patrol Base Jaker, Helmand province, Sept. 1. The CAG made a last-minute purchase to ensure school children at the Landay Shar School would have the equipment they need for the beginning of the school year, Sept. 5. Afghan police and soldiers will distribute the equipment.
PATROL BASE JAKER — “Logistically things don’t always turn out the way you want them, no matter how well you plan for it,” said Master Sgt. Sean Sargeant, a team chief with the 3rd CAG.
When it was discovered that there would be about a 5-day delay before supplies could reach the school, Sargeant took steps to make sure some children wouldn’t have to go their first day of school without anything to write on, etc. Working with local Afghans, Sargeant and the CAG were able to gather enough supplies to provide a few hundred children with starter kits — a pencil, notebook, pencil sharpener and backpack as well as furnishing the schoolhouse with seating cushions, chairs and desks – enough to make-do with until the main shipment arrives.
“The Afghan police and soldiers will deliver the supplies to the kids,” Sargeant said. “They’re going to be the face of the distribution.” Sargeant was able to gather the supplies in just 2 days after working with local Afghans. “We try to make all our purchases through the Afghans, so we put the money in the economy,” Sargeant said. “Usually if people are doing okay financially and their families are supported, then they’re happy and that’s what we try to do.”

Master Sgt. Sean Sargeant counts seating cushions while unloading school supplies.

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IRAQI STORIES:

DVIDS

Top airman exits Iraq proud of mission

Written by AF Staff Sgt. Sanjay Allen

CAMP VICTORY - 9-02-10 - After spending more than 1-1/2 years coordinating U.S. airpower, while helping to ensure our force level drew down to 50,000, the senior U.S. Air Force airman in Iraq is headed home.

Serving as the Dir. of the Air Component Coordination Element, the Dir. of the USF-I Force Strategic Engagement Cell, and the 9th Air Expeditionary TF – Baghdad Det-2 Cmdr., Maj. Gen. Joseph Reynes Jr. has watched the number of U.S. service members here decrease from 148,000 to around 50,000, to include a decrease in airmen from more than 12,000 to less than 6,000.

Reynes recently explained the mission our AF conducted here during his tenure. "We've provided timely and precise air mobility," he said. "We've had 24/7 unblinking intell, surveillance and recon (IRS) to cover and work with our joint force partners. Then, of course, we've had kinetic and non-kinetic ops at the discretion of the cmdrs. in support of their missions.

"It's been an awesome mission that we've executed over and over again, and we've just gotten better every day," the general added. Reynes is especially proud of his airmen for completing their regular mission, while also assisting with the historic U.S. drawdown of forces.

"What's evolved is how we translated those missions, and how we've drawn down at the same time," Reynes said. "Moving into Op New Dawn means adapting to a smaller footprint for U.S. airmen, and growing capabilities for Iraqi airmen," the general said. It's a new beginning for Iraq, he said, noting the IqAF has grown from 1,500 airmen and 28 aircraft 2 years ago to 7,000 airmen and more than 100 aircraft now. "The IqAF is expected to grow to more than 10,000 members by 2012," Reynes said. Meanwhile, he said, Iraqi airmen are beginning to move onto bases, such as Joint Base Balad, Ali and Sather.

"We'll continue to support and do the same missions we've done, but at the same time we're handing more and more off to our Iraqi partners," Reynes said. "Over the next year, you're going to see more partnering with our Iraqi brothers and sisters, but also we'll be doing more training.

"As the drawdown continues, about 6,000 U.S. airmen will remain in Iraq," Reynes said. "Op New Dawn really doesn't change anything for our airmen," Reynes said. "They're still going to be executing the same missions as they were before, but there will be fewer airmen. We're still going to be providing ISR. We're still going to be providing timely and precise cargo and passenger movement."

"Airmen will be partnering with our Iraqi brothers as we develop the IqAF, as we continue to work to develop those partnerships and engagements, as we move toward end of mission," Reynes concluded.

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

USAF transfers northern airspace to Iraq
Story by Senior Airman Perry Aston and Staff Sgt. Sanja Allen

Tom Samples, Washington Consulting Group, air traffic controller trainer, advises an Iraqi air traffic controller, directing the airspace of aircraft traveling through Iraq, Aug. 31, at BIA. Mr. Samples is contracted by the ICAA to train and advise Iraqi controllers, with help from the Air Component Coordination Element (ACCE) - Iraq air space planners.
BAGHDAD INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (BIA) – At midnight, Sept. 1, the U.S. AF handed over the Kirkuk sector of airspace, 15,000' and above, to the Iraq Civil Aviation Authority (ICAA).
The Kirkuk sector of airspace consists of the northern 1/3 portion of Iraq, which had been previously controlled by the AF out of Kirkuk Air Base. “Tonight marks a very historic occasion,” said Maj. Jamie Flanders, Air Component Coordination Element-Iraq airspace planner, minutes after the changeover took place. “The U.S. forces in Iraq have handed over the Kirkuk sector flight level 1-5-zero and above to the GoI.”
“I’m a little bit excited about this job because it’s a professional job,” said one Iraqi air traffic control student. “You need to be focused all the time. I hope we can do a lot for the ICAA, so that the ATC can develop through the years, and we can get the job done.”
“This is probably some of the most difficult air traffic to control in the world, because there’s no back-up radios, there’s no back up landlines,” said the retired Federal Aviation Administration controller. “We’ve had American controllers come over here that couldn’t work this traffic. We had to send them home.”
The students also recognize the complexity of the job, but they're proud to be doing something meaningful for their country. “Being air traffic control is a difficult job,” said a female student at the Iraq Civil Aviation Training Institute at BIA. “But, we have to deal with our job in a good way, because we're responsible for many peoples’ lives on the airplane. So, we have to be open-minded. We have to be able to deal with the critical situation in a good manner, in order to avoid a collision. We have to be proud of ourselves.”
Training these young Iraqis to take over their nations skies has been a remarkable task that Maj. Flanders has been proud to be a part of to help build up the Iraqi airspace.
“Looking around here; what an awesome, great thing to be involved in,” said Maj. Flanders. “You’ve got U.S. AF, American contractors and Iraqis building a better air traffic control system.”

Students start their introduction course on air traffic control.

An ICAA air traffic control student moves flight progress strips in order of importance on the strip board.

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USF-I

Border enforcement instructors graduate medic course

BAGHDAD - Eight Iraqi Diwaniyah Directorate of Border Enforcement (DBE) instructors graduated from a combat life saver class, Aug. 30 at Camp Echo.

The course, conducted by the DBE 5th Region's Training Command, and in partnership with its USF-Iraq Stability TT counterpart, was designed to equip Diwaniyah DBE Regional Training Center instructors with necessary skills to teach life-saving techniques to other border enforcement personnel.

USF-I medical personnel challenged these instructor-students with courses that included first responder and combat life-saving tactics, techniques and procedures. The students also participated in several practical exercises with scenarios that required them to stabilize and prepare patients for transport to a medical facility.

"You now have skills that will help you assist other DBE Shurta to better complete their mission of providing security to Iraq," said Iraqi Lt. Moshan Abd, the dean of the Diwaniyah DBE Regional Training center.

Diwaniyah DBE Training Center is a regional training center that provides in-service advanced training for border enforcement personnel assigned to the 5th Region.

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Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/9-05

Dear Interested Reader,

Steaks, burgers replace MREs for troops at COP Rankel. Marine reservist leaves with a lasting impact. New cmdr. for RSC-Capital. AF combat medics serve critical role on Lagman PRT. Women's ANP graduation. CF conduct precision strike against senior IMU member.

Iraq: 373rd SSB leaves lasting impression on Iraq. 298th SMC repair shop keeps Soldiers cool. Tanks on display boost morale at Div. HQ.

Joanna

____________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

DVIDS

Steaks, Burgers Replace MREs for Marines at COP Rankel

Story by Cpl. Skyler Tooker

Marines with Meals on Wheels from RCT 7 all volunteered to come out and cook hot food for the ANA and Marines with Lima Co, 3rd Bn, 1st Marine Regt, in COP Rankel, Garmsir District, Helmand province, Aug. 19, 2010.

COP RANKEL — The Marines with the Meals-on-Wheels traveled 4 hours to deliver a well-deserved hot meal. The convoy traveled to various unit positions throughout Helmand prov., providing hot meals to service members “outside the wire,” who typically eat packaged, dehydrated meals from their MREs. Scoring a packet of peanut butter or candy, or coming across their favorite MRE is the most satisfaction they usually get from their twice-a-day meals.

The meals-on-wheels Marines cooked and served steak, chicken, hotdogs, hamburgers and ice-cold beverages. “This is a great morale booster for all the Marines, sailors and soldiers out here,” said Lance Cpl. Matt Wilson, a team leader with Weapons Plt, Lima Co. “It's a good day when meals-on-wheels comes out and provides us with a hot steak and cold Coke,” said Wilson, 25.

Normally the Marines search out their favorite 2 MREs to ensure they get the food they want for the day. Once the Marines saw the meals-on-wheels convoy roll in, they weren't even thinking about MREs anymore, as the sounds and scents of burgers, hot dogs and steaks grilling captured their imagination.

Lance Cpl. Gary Mishoe, a Marine with meals-on-wheels, said this is his 15th time coming out and serving a hot meal to Marines in southern Afghanistan, and he gets the same result every time — extremely grateful Marines. “I think it's great that we get to come out here and recognize all the Marines down here,” said Mishoe, a motor transport operator for RCT-7.

The Marines and ANA soldiers were very grateful for the food they received from meals-on-wheels. They understand the risk these Marines took driving down on dangerous roads to provide them with a meal to remember.

The Marines with Meals on Wheels serve the Marines with Lima Co,

One hot dog coming up!

The Marines with Meals-on-Wheels joke around with the Marines with Lima Co, while serving. Meals-on-Wheels not only provided more food than could be eaten, they also left a grill and extra food and drinks for Lima Co to later have a cookout of their own.

The ANA soldiers enjoy a hot meal.

Steaks on the grill!

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DVIDS

Marine Reservist Leaves With a Lasting Impact

Story by Cpl. Megan Sindelar

Lance Cpl. Jason Sestina, a member of the police mentoring team with 1st Bn, 2nd Marine Regt, gives chocolate and pens to children at the ANP entry control point at Musa Qa'leh District Center, Aug. 24.

Sestina, an MP with the police mentoring team, is only one year away from receiving his degree in preliminary law and criminology from the Indiana University of Pa., and is excited to go home and finish his degree. But, he'll never forget the time he spent here.

Sestina, from a family of 7, has 2 cousins in the Marine Corps. He said that he wanted to join the Marine Corps Reserves, because he wanted the best of both worlds: to be a Marine and to attend college. He chose a career as an MP because he believed the experience would help his professional career.

The afternoon of Aug. 24, Sestina, received a Letter of Appreciation and a Certificate of Commendation for his efforts and contributions to the ANP and 1/2.
“The awards were well deserved. He's a very mature young man and is destined for success,” said Maj. Anthony Aragon, civil affairs team leader with I Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF)(FWD).

The Letter of Appreciation was awarded to him for working at the detention facility, and the Certificate of Commendation was presented to him for heroic actions on July 4. Two IEDs detonated in the bazaar outside Musa Qa’leh Distrit Center during the U.S. Independence Day. Twenty-one casualties were brought into the base. With the limited members of medical staff, the corpsmen called on all Marines who were combat lifesavers to help with the casualties.

Combat lifesavers are Marines who have completed the Combat Lifesaver’s Course, consisting of basic trauma treatment. Sestina, 21, being CLS qualified since January, ran to help the casualties. “I knew what to do,” Sestina said. “I jumped in and every wound they had, I knew how to treat.”

Aragon said Sestina is always on his feet, and he thought swiftly and responded to the situation professionally. Sestina admitted to having some rough times, but he said he has many warm memories of the time he spent here.

One of his favorite memories was from a patrol he went on with the ANP. As they were passing through the bazaar, Sestina said he saw 2 children, not more than 5-to-7 years old, driving flawlessly down the road in a truck with a sofa instead of seats. “One kid was working the clutch and gas while the other steered and shifted,” Sestina laughed. “I was trying to be all serious on the patrol, but I almost lost it.”

Lance Cpl. Jason Sestina, a member of the police mentoring team with 1st Bn, 2nd Marine Regt, receives a Certificate of Commendation.

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DVIDS

New Commander for Regional Support Command-Capital

Story by Capt. Anthony Deiss

Outgoing cmdr of the Regional Support Command-Capital (RSC-C), Maj. Robert Firman, center, passes the flag to Brig. Gen. John McGuiness, dep. cmdr for regional support, to symbolize the end of his command in a change of command ceremony Aug. 28, 2010, in patriot square at Camp Phoenix in Kabul.

CAMP PHOENIX – Col. Robert Wicks Jr. assumed command of the (RSC-C) from Maj. Robert Firman. The mission of the RSC-C is to support the ANSF in the areas of training, fielding, and equipping new units, as well as sustaining the fielded force in the Kabul prov., and capital region. Established just last fall, the unit is growing and has become an O-6 level command.

“My goal as RSC-C Cmdr is to build something strong and lasting in Afghanistan, and to optimize our momentum on the progress already made,” Wicks stated speaking to the multinational audience. “As partners, we share a common goal to build capability and ultimately a lasting security”. Col. Wicks comes to the RSC-C command position from 13th AF as the dir. of Space Forces for Pacific Air Forces at Hickam AF Base, Hawaii.

“The opportunity to work directly with professionals in the ANSF has been very rewarding,” said Firman. “I was also lucky to have had the opportunity to work with the best team in Afghanistan. Being part of the RSC team has been the highlight of my career."

Incoming cmdr Col. Robert Wicks Jr., gives a speech during a change of command ceremony.

Outgoing cmdr Maj. Robert Firman, gives a speech to thank fellow co-workers for the support and great effort they have given while under his command.

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Blackanthem Military News

Air Force combat medics serve critical role on Laghman PRT

By Air Force Capt. Tristan Hinderliter

Laghman PRT members meet in their barracks to participate in a combat lifesaver refresher course taught by medics AF Master Sgt. Simon Deyell from Peterson Air Force Base, Colo., and AF Senior Airman Jeffrey Marr from Ramstein Air Base, Germany, Aug. 12. The medics reviewed combat first aid skills, and how to properly use the material in individual first aid kits and combat lifesaver bags.

(Photos by AF Staff Sgt. Ave Pele)

FOB MEHTAR LAM - AF Master Sgt. Simon Deyell stands in front of about 15 Soldiers and Airmen explaining how, while on a dismounted patrol, some Afghans brought him a young boy whose head and shoulders were covered in blood. When Deyell cleaned the blood off, he discovered the cause of the bleeding was just a small cut on the back of the boy's head. "The incident showed how even minor head wounds can bleed profusely," he said.

Deyell is the NCO-in-charge of medical ops, and the senior combat medic with the Laghman PRT. Deyell and fellow medics AF Senior Airman Jeffrey Marr and AF Staff Sgt. Nikolia Saunders from Langley AF Base, Va., recently provided combat lifesaver refresher training to about 50 of their teammates on the PRT.

"Combat lifesaver" training is provided to most non-medical Soldiers and Airmen before they deploy to Afghanistan. The course teaches advanced first aid and lifesaving procedures beyond the scope of the "self-aid and buddy care" skills taught to all servicemembers. "The PRT rotation currently at Mehtar Lam has been in place since Feb., so this was a good time for refresher training," said AF Capt. Philip Hotchkiss, a physician asst deployed from Tyndall AFB, Fla., and the PRT's senior medical officer.

"Unfortunately, these are perishable skills," said Hotchkiss. "If you don't use them occasionally, you will either lose the skill completely or freeze when attempting to recall them during stressful situations. Therefore, during the summer months when kinetics in Afghanistan have traditionally heated up, we thought that a review would sharpen the skills of our warriors, improve reaction times and save lives."

As part of the training for this deployment, they attended a 2-week course at Fort Sam Houston, Texas, on what the Army calls "Tactical Combat Casualty Care." The training focused on immediate actions to take if someone is injured on the battlefield - such as how to stop bleeding, treat a sucking chest wound, open someone's airway or splint a fractured bone. "It was basically a 2-week trauma course on how to be self-sufficient without a provider around," said Marr.

"In addition to the trauma training, the instructors also taught clinical aspects of care, such as various medications and what they're used for," said Deyell. "They try to refine your skills and get you ready for what potentially could happen in theater."

The 4-person medical section cares for more than 100 individuals on the PRT, and they provide support to other units on FOB Mehtar Lam, including TF Iron Gray and the ADT.

At least one medic also goes on every PRT mission outside the wire. For Marr and Saunders that averages 2 or 3 trips a week. As the NCO-in-charge, Deyell manages the schedule and covers missions for the other medics, when they have tower guard duty, go on their mid-tour leave, or when he gets "FOB fever," he said.

"In the field, the medics give the warriors they protect an additional dose of confidence," said Hotchkiss. "Having their ‘doc' - the colloquial term the Army uses for combat medics, along on the mission gives the troops the reassurance that if something goes wrong and someone gets hurt, they will receive prompt and proper care."

In addition to treating U.S. and other ISAF troops, the medics also sometimes have the opportunity to treat local nationals, as Deyell did with the Afghan boy's head injury," said Hotchkiss. "They've been very compassionate in treating the Afghans," he said. "I'm really proud of the work our medics are doing here. They freely give of themselves day and night, 7 days a week, without hesitation."

Laghman PRT medics AF Master Sgt. Simon Deyell and AF Senior Airman Jeffrey Marr demonstrate how to use a cravat as a sling.

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DVIDS

Women's Afghan National Police Graduation

Photos by Spc. Tracy Weeden

KANDAHAR AIRFIELD - Kandahar's first coalition sponsored ANP course for women graduated, Aug. 5, at Camp Nathan Smith. 1st Lt. Elizabeth Merwin, E Co, TF Shadow maintenance plt leader and Dari linguist, assisted with their training and collected boots, burqas, socks, gloves and sunglasses to donate to the women.

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ISAF Joint Command - Afghanistan

CF Conduct Precision Strike Against Senior IMU Member

Kabul (Sept. 2) - CF conducted a precision air strike targeting an Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan senior member, assessed to be the dep. shadow gov. for Takhar prov. this morning.

He regularly coordinates and conducts attacks with known IMU and Taliban insurgents, and traveled from Pakistan to Takhar this spring. Intel tracked the insurgents traveling in a sedan on a series of remote roads in Rustaq district. After careful planning to ensure no civilians were present, coalition aircraft conducted a precision air strike on one sedan and later followed with direct fire from an aerial platform. The vehicle was traveling as part of a 6-car convoy, but no other vehicles were hit in the strike. The SECFOR was unable to immediately dispatch a ground force to assess the results, but initial reflections indicate 8 to 12 insurgents were killed or injured in the strike, including a Taliban cmdr. Multiple passengers of the vehicle were positively identified carrying weapons.

"We're aware of the allegations that this strike caused civilian causalities and we'll do our best to get to the bottom of the accusations," said Marine Corps Maj. Gen. David Garza, dep. chief of staff for joint ops, HQ ISAF Joint Command. "What I can say is these vehicles were nowhere near a populated area, and we're confident this strike hit only the targeted vehicle, after days of tracking the occupants' activity."

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IRAQI STORIES:

DVIDS

373rd CSSB Leaves Lasting Impression on Iraq

Story by Spc. Gaelen Lowers

Lt. Col. Giulia Giacoppe, cmdr of the 373rd CSSB, 3rd Sust Bde, 103rd ESC, cases her unit’s colors with Command Sgt. Maj. Donald Montgomery, command sgt maj of the 373rd CSSB, Aug. 17, during their end of mission ceremony at Victory Base Complex.

JOINT BASE BALAD — More than 1,100 Iron Star Soldiers who fell under the 373rd CSSB will redeploy without replacement, keeping up with the USF’ plan for a responsible drawdown of forces and equipment in Iraq, and transitioning to Operation New Dawn, by Sept. 1.

“The significance of the 373rd.’s end-of-mission is really a great indication of the success of the responsible reduction of forces,” said Col. Shawn Morrissey, cmdr of the 3rd Sust. Bde.

The reserve bn, out of Beaumont, Texas, had units assigned to them from all across the U.S. "All have been 'vital lynchpins' in the drawdown of troops and equipment over the past 5 months," said Lt. Col. Giulia Giacoppe. “We’ve had a pretty broad range of geographic regions that have blended together to make this mission a success,” said Giacoppe. “They did incredible work. I couldn’t be more proud of them.”

“We managed to build and maintain a team of more than 1,100 Soldiers, and that’s no small feat,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Donald Montgomery, the 373rd CSSB command sgt. maj. “They've done a lot of hard work and accomplished what they set out to do.”

The 373rd CSSB will be handing their missions off to ISF, and the 3rd BSB, 3rd ID, and will head home to their families and friends, more than 6 months earlier than originally intended. “We were all a little bit disappointed,” said Giacoppe. “With a reserve unit, you go through a lot of preparation at home to get ready for a deployment: notifying employers, training and all of the coordination to get ready. Once you get here, you want to see it through. On one hand, it’s tough, but in the same token, it’s great to get home and see our families.”

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DVIDS

298th SMC Repair Shop Keeps Soldiers Cool

Story and photos by Pfc. David Christian

Sgt. Jon Quick, a heating, ventilation and a/c repair tech with the 298th Support Maintenance Co, recharges an a/c unit with Freon.

JOINT BASE BALAD — Soldiers with the 298th work daily to keep personnel cool in the heat of the Iraqi summer. The personnel here are working hard and keeping busy, because there's a lack of proper preventative maintenance on the heating, ventilation and a/c systems in the Caiman series of MRAP vehicles. The problem isn’t with the service members, but with the technical manual (TM) service members use to maintain their vehicles.

"Nowhere in the TM does it tell them how to clean and maintain the a/c unit,” said Chief Warrant Officer 2 Christopher Patrick, the ground support equipment officer-in-charge with the 298th.

The biggest problem lies with the cooling fins on the air conditioning unit itself. When the fins are clogged with dust and dirt, they cannot dissipate the heat build–up. “It’s an easy fix,” said Staff Sgt. Lee Ripka, the repair shop NCO-in-charge of the 298th. “Just once a week, take a low pressure washer and just clean it out. Otherwise the dirt builds up, the heat cannot dissipate and the system malfunctions.”

The knowledge gained by the techs has led them to put together a manual themselves, which they sent up their chain of command, and has since become the standard operating procedure for the 3rd Sust. Bde. The Soldiers are also looking to have the manual published in the Preventative Maintenance Magazine (PS Magazine) to get the info out to the operator level.

“If you keep your system clean, it will keep you cool,” said Ripka.

Staff Sgt. Lee Ripka replaces an electric terminal for a low pressure switch.

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DVIDS

Tanks on Display Boost Morale at Division Headquarters

Story by Sgt. Kimberly Johnson

Spc. Manuel Tabarez (right in driver’s hatch), an infantryman with Co A, 2nd Bn, 7th Inf Regt, 1st Advise and Assist Bde (AAB), 3rd ID, USD – Center, positions an M2 Bradley Fighting Vehicle, Aug. 25, outside USD – C HQ, Camp Liberty, accompanying an M1A1 Abrams Main Battle Tank already in place. The 2 armored vehicles are there to welcome all who come to the HQ, operated by 1st AR Div.

BAGHDAD – The 1st AR Div. has no tanks in Iraq, because all the tanks that belong to the div. are at Ft. Bliss, Texas, where the HQ will be moved once they redeploy in Dec., said Command Sgt. Maj. William Johnson, command sgt. maj. of 1st AR Div.

“The significance of having tanks in front of the HQ is to boost the morale of the troops, and the morale of the cmdr and me,” Johnson said. “It’s always nice to go back to our grass roots of having tanks and Bradleys around.”

Johnson said that he's been on the quest for tanks to display for more than 7 months. With help from a colleague with 2nd Bn, 7th Inf Regt, 1st AAB, 3rd ID, the quest is over.

“My team was more than happy to help make this display possible,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Shawn Cook, command sgt. maj. of 2nd Bn. “For the div., the significance is the proud history of the armor and all its might. It’s a big motivation to the Soldiers of the div., no matter where they are.”

Johnson said that when compared to his previous deployments, he notices the Iraqis have made significant improvements in building a more secure, stable and sovereign country for themselves. “The 1st AAB, 3rd ID, is training the Iraqis on the M1A1 [Abrams Main Battle] Tank,” Johnson said. “The Iraqis are eager to train everyday, and they're doing a great job.”

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Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/9-04

Dear Interested Reader,

FOB Connolly Soldiers make cricket better for Khagan High. TF Iron Soldiers joining Macedonian Rangers' birthday celebration. TF Wolverine to re-open bazaar at BAF. Bamyan U invites Kentucky ADT as guest lecturers; Vermont firefighters train ANP.

Iraq: Drawdown ops in full swing for Operation New Dawn. IA exhibits show of strength at JSS Deason. Senior Army leader inspires Soldiers during visit at COB Adder.

Joanna

___________________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

RC-East, Bagram Media Center

It’s all about cricket in Khogyani

Photos by Army Spc. Albert Kelley

NANGARHAR PROVINCE – Army Staff Sgt. William Szykylski, a civil affairs specialist with the 412th Civil Affairs Co, displays his hand and eye coordination while striking a ball during a cricket game in the Khogyani District, Aug. 17. Members from FOB Connolly built a field for the students of Khagan High School. They also donated jerseys, shoes and other cricket equipment.

Capt. Norman Tonti and Capt. Paul Sipe prepare to donate cricket equipment. Tonti is a civil affairs team leader with the 412th, and Sipe is the company cmdr of Co A, 1st STB, TF Spartan. Assisting the captains were the district sub-gov., the education line director, and the principal of Khagan High School. Members from FOB Connolly funded a cricket field for the students through the cash for work program.

Students listen to school leaders thank Soldiers from FOB Connolly.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

TF Iron Soldiers join Macedonian Rangers' birthday celebration

Written by Army Sgt. Brent Powell

Lt. Col. David Fivecoat, 3rd Bn, 187th Inf Regt Cmdr, presents Macedonian Capt. Borche Turturov, cmdr of the Macedonia army rangers from Skopje, Macedonia, with an award of appreciation during a celebration of the Macedonia army's 18th birthday on COP Shar Hawza, Aug. 18. This event was coordinated by TF Iron Rakkasans on FOB Sharana. (Photo by Army Spc. Lorenzo Ware)

PAKTIKA PROVINCE – The 2 forces have worked together for several months now and will be going their separate ways soon. They took the opportunity to not only celebrate the birthday, but to also show their mutual respect and appreciation.

"During the event, Soldiers from both forces exchanged stories and reflected on the events of the last 6-months that helped cement a bond of friendship between them," said Army 1st Lt. R.J. Peek, 3-187 spokesman. "That friendship will continue even after the 2 forces separate. The Iron Rakkasans of 3rd Bn, will soon be relocating to East Ghazni, and the Macedonian Rangers will move to Paktya," said Peek.

Everyone who attended the celebration seemed to enjoy themselves, and the chance to fellowship with their comrades in arms. At the conclusion of the event, leaders recognized some of the hard working soldiers among their ranks. Five Macedonian Rangers were promoted, and a Vermont NG Soldier from Co D, 3rd Bn., 172nd Inf. Reg., received a Combat Action Badge. In addition, 4 ANP received certificates of appreciation for their part in securing Palau Village.

Lt. Col. David Fivecoat presented a special plaque to the Macedonian cmdr., that boasted a battle-ax engraved with the historic Rakkasan Torii. “It was an honor for the Iron Rakkasans to have fought shoulder-to-shoulder with men of your calibre,” he said. “This battle-ax is to show our appreciation for the Macedonian Rangers. During these last months together, they showed a true dedication and devotion that greatly contributed to the overall success of the mission.”

Returning the gesture, the Macedonian Rangers also presented a plaque to Fivecoat and his Soldiers. “When you see this plaque, remember that we're your brothers,” said Macedonian Capt. Turturov. “Our soldiers and our unit will continue to support you in your efforts.”

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

TF Wolverine works to re-open bazaar

Written by Army Pfc. Roy Mercon

Army Sgt. 1st Class Richard Briggs, a communications procurement NCO with HHC, 86th IBCT, looks through a potential bazaar vendor’s wares, Aug. 21. BAF has been hosting groups of potential vendors in preparation for the re-opening of the BAF bazaar scheduled for late Sept. (Photos by Army Spc. Kristina Gupton)

BAGRAM AIRFIELD (BAF) – From the initial meetings with more than 70 maliks in the Bagram district, to clearing an area for the new vendors to set up their shops, a lot of work has been done to re-open the marketplace.

“Initially, when the bazaar was just a good idea, we acquired 2 lists of potential vendors,” said Maj. Stephen Bragg, deputy civil affairs officer for TF Wolverine. “One list was from Mir Rahman, a member of Charikar’s Chamber of Commerce, and the second one was from Gen. Abdul Rahman of the ANA.”

These lists provided a number of vendors. However, Bragg wanted to get more local involvement. When local villagers found out about the re-opening, they brought up concerns about the vendor selection process, which had initially excluded the village maliks. To answer their questions and concerns, TF Wolverine met with more than 70 local village elders, as well as the Bagram district gov., Admad Kabir, at a shura in Janqadam.

“During the meeting we listened to their explanation that they should help choose and provide who works in the bazaar. We told the maliks we would review a list of vendors that they choose,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Vincente Collins Jr., the 86th BSTB command sgt maj. “We received the list and held a follow-up meeting where these vendors were interviewed.”

From that shura, 92 potential vendors representing the local villages surrounding Bagram Airfield were added to the selection and interview process. As a way to showcase the upcoming opening, some vendors had the chance to show and sell their wares beforehand on Bagram Airfield at the TF Wolverine HQ.

“Each Saturday for the past 4 weeks, we've invited various potential vendors in to display and sell their products,” said Bragg. “This has become an auditioning process, if you will. We're looking for product selection, product knowledge, people skills, etc. So far, this has been a pretty successful process with many opportunities for potential customers to preview and purchase items, and give feedback about the candidates. This will continue until the bazaar becomes reality.”

A group of Army Soldiers shop for jewelry from a potential vendor, Aug. 21. BAF has been hosting groups of potential vendors in preparation for the re-opening of the BAF bazaar scheduled for late September.

Sgt. Timothy Timpson, a supply sgt with Co A, 30th BSTB, and 1st Sgt. Joey Ireland, Co A, 1st sgt browse through various paintings.

Capt. Ron McKimmy, a tactical safety officer with 101st Abn Div, and Capt. Mark Remy, a base ops safety officer with 101st, browse through various carpets.

A potential vendor opens the clasp of a hand-carved wooden chest.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Bamyan University invites Kentucky ADT as guest lecturers

Story and photos by Army Staff Sgt. Whitney Hughes

Army Col. James Floyd, the Kentucky ADT veterinarian, asks Bamyan University animal science students to hold a goat cadaver and guess its age based on the length of its teeth. Floyd and other members of the ADT visited the university August 23-26 to speak to the undergraduate students as guest lecturers.

BAMYAN PROVINCE – With about 10 minutes left in the lecture, the scene is the same in most college classrooms: Notebooks are closed, backpacks zipped up, and eyes dart between the professor and the clock. However, the scene at Bamyan University is quite the opposite.

Half an hour after the lesson was over students were still engrossed in their lab, eagerly asking questions, and even asking for additional reading material. This probably had to do with a unique aspect of the lecture – their teacher was not wearing a coat and tie, but a U.S. Army uniform.

“Veterinarians are animal scientists who just happen to be animal doctors. We wanted to provide lectures from a perspective they'd never had before, using an approach they'd never had before,” said Col. James Floyd.

In order to provide the fresh perspective and capture the students’ attention, Floyd started the series of lectures with a hands-on lesson. First, he used the traditional method of lecturing with a slideshow, teaching the students about the gastro-intestinal track.

Then, they were able to look at 3 goat cadavers to see what the organs actually looked like. "The combination of lecture and lab was something I thought would be new to the students, and I was right," he said. “Virtually every one of them had seen a goat slaughtered before. All had seen the guts, but none knew what the guts do. I thought that would be something we could use to draw them in. That’s why I wanted it in the beginning,” said Floyd.

After capturing the students attention on the 1st day, the team went on to cover other topics they thought were crucial to animal science. Some of the lectures included were animal husbandry, disease prevention, and medical check-ups. However, the most important topic, one the speakers emphasized 3 out of the 4 days they taught, was nutrition.

“An animal that’s not fed well does not grow well and does not reproduce,” said Floyd. “Livestock are very important to the people of Afghanistan. They provide protein in the form of milk and meat,” Floyd added, explaining the crucial need for animal science.

The lectures at Bamyan University were not only unique for the students, but for the Soldiers as well. The ADT is usually out in the villages of Bamyan working directly with the farmers, while the Cooperative Medical Assistance Team (CMAT) is usually stationed at Bagram Airfield. "So, lecturing at a university level was a first for them in Afghanistan," said Floyd.

The experience was especially rewarding for Staff Sgt. Katherine Miles, a veterinary tech with the CMAT, who also taught during the dissection of the goats. Miles proved to be an essential mentor for the women in the class. As her hands gripped and pointed at the goats internal organs, the few female students eagerly crowded by her side, intently hanging on her every word.

“It was great to see they were so enthusiastic. They listened to what I had to say and asked questions,” said Miles. “They usually see us riding by and waving, but there's no interaction. Here, we could interact and answer questions, and help improve the health of the livestock.”

In defining the success of their efforts, Floyd said he didn’t think there really would be a “measurable outcome,” for the week of lectures. However, if he could have been an outsider looking on at the eager students who flocked around him as he made his way back to his vehicle, asking him for additional materials, he said he’d believe it was a total success.

Capt. Ryan Miller, a veterinarian with the CMAT at Bagram Airfield, helps Bamyan University animal science students identify the vital organs in a goat cadaver.

An animal science student looks at one of the goat cadavers.

A Bamyan University animal science student looks on as Staff Sgt. Katherine Miles, explains the functions of the vital organs of a goat cadaver.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Vermont firefighter trains ANP in Bamyan

Story and photos by Army Pfc. Roy Mercon

Army Spc. Travis Hale, a combat engr for HHC, 86th IBCT, instructs an ANP female officer how to inspect equipment on a fire truck, during a practical exercise, Aug. 9. Hale, a volunteer firefighter for his hometown, is in Bamyan to train the ANP how to use and maintain the equipment. The ANP will also conduct practical exercises to improve their firefighting skills.

BAMYAN PROVINCE – In just 3 short days, Army Spc. Travis Hale worked closely with ANP officers, teaching them the knowledge and skills necessary to make them into more effective firefighters for the citizens of Bamyan City, Aug. 7-9.

The 1st day of training consisted of, among other things, driving to the local river and learning how to pump water into the truck. With the townspeople watching, the ANP demonstrated how to operate the equipment properly.

“The training went extremely well,” said Staff Sgt. Peter Ladensack, an infantryman, assigned to the Bamyan ETT, 86th IBCT. “It was very good to see they had a female involved.”

The 2nd day included learning how to use emergency rescue equipment, to include a saw used for cutting open parts of cars, and getting into spaces otherwise inaccessible. The 3 police officers being trained each took turns at sawing a piece of steel using various sawing methods.

The final day brought everything they had learned into perspective. Hale instructed the firefighters on how to plot possible water-gathering points on a map, the various dangers of firefighting, the 3 components of a fire, and finally, the officers had some fun learning how to hold the fire hose correctly, using different techniques for different situations.

"This was certainly a job well done, and everyone involved felt satisfied in what they had accomplished in the limited time together," said Hale. “They've much to learn, like drivers training, entering a building, and the use of oxygen.”

Hale said he sees further opportunity for additional training, and plans to research and attempt to acquire essential pieces of equipment for the Bamyan Fire Dept. Number one on the list: nozzles for the main fire hoses.

Spc. Hale, instructs a female ANP officer in the use of a fire hose.

Spc. Hale and Staff Sgt. Peter Ladensack, an infantryman, observe an ANP officer use a saw. The ANP will also conduct practical exercises to improve their firefighting skills.

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IRAQI STORIES:

DVIDS

Drawdown Operations in full swing for Operation New Dawn

Story by Pfc. Adrian Meuhe

Mike Shuster, of NPR, interviews Brig. Gen. Mark Corson, comm. gen. of the 103rd ESC, Aug. 18, at the convoy staging area on COB Adder. Shuster was at COB Adder to report on the drawdown of U.S. forces from Iraq for NPR.

COB ADDER – Darkness is fading as a new dawn breaches the horizon. The last combat bde has left Iraq, and while they passed through COB Adder during the 3rd week of Aug., the base was also a focal point for the logistical drawdown, as there will only be 50,000 service members, and the equipment needed to sustain those remaining after Sept. 1.

While part of COB Adder is busy ensuring the deadline for Op New Dawn is met, the other parts continue their day-to-day ops with the support from the 224th Sust Bde, 103rd ESC. The 224th is responsible for sustaining the remaining forces in southern Iraq, while also doing their part to assist in drawdown ops.

“We take care of supply in all its aspects,” said Lt. Col. Pete Kim, the dep. cmdr for the 224th. “Not just pushing physical supplies, but providing support such as human resources, medical support, and all the things that enable the advise and assist brigades to go out and do their mission.”

“With the drawdown in effect we've fewer resources to do this with,” said Kim. “Our job is challenging now, and is going to be more challenging later as we continue to drawdown U.S. Forces and contractor capabilities.”

“The fact that we've young service members figuring out how to synchronize this is just incredible,” said Kim. According to Col. Lisa Costanza, cmdr of the 224th, these young men and women are doing an astounding job. “I think it’s a testament to Americans today,” said Costanza about the young troops stepping up during the drawdown. “I’m definitely in awe of them and humbled by their service.”

As the black skies turn into a blue hue in the early hours of Sept. 1, Soldiers will awaken to take on a new mission as Operation Iraqi Freedom will come to a close. American and Iraqi history books will be rewritten as ISF ensure their streets are safe, their parliament is seated, and a new dawn awakens in an ever-changing Iraq.

MRAP vehicles wait in line at the retrogad property assistance team (RPAT) yard. These trucks come from bases throughout southern Iraq, to be put onto convoys of flatbed trucks to head south to Kuwait, so they can be used by the Army elsewhere.

Mike Shuster interviews Spc. Branden Gums, a movement control specialist with the 635th MCT. Gums' job is to make sure the vehicles in the staging area get put into convoys heading to Kuwait in a timely fashion.

High Mobility Multi-Wheeled Vehicles sit on top of a flatbed truck in the convoy staging area. HMMWVs like this have been in Iraq as long as U.S. forces have, and are now being retrograded into the supply system to be used elsewhere as the logistical foot print is consilidated in Iraq.

Tactical vehicles sit on flatbed trucks at the convoy staging area before moving south to Kuwait. At any given time there are hundreds of trucks staged up ready to go, and are usually on the road within a couple of days.

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DVIDS

Iraqi Army Exhibits Show of Strength at JSS Deason

Story by Sgt. Chad Menegay

IA soldiers display national pride as part of a demonstration to signify the transition to Operation New Dawn, Aug. 30, at JSS Deason.

BAGHDAD — About a dozen major media outlets captured footage of Commando Bn, 17th IA Bde, clearing a target building on a timed assault, and moving quickly through an obstacle course.

In the raid scenario, the IA 17th Bomb Disposal Co, Baghdad, identified an IED and deployed a robot to remove it. IA soldiers also fired M-16 rifles, and answered questions from the media about how they'll work to secure Iraq during Operation New Dawn.

ISF are able to provide security and are progressing, said IA Maj. Gen. al-Frejee, comm. gen. Al-Frejee said that he believes terrorists have no place in Iraq, and that one day they'll be out of the country.

“In this environment, the way that you measure success is in progress,” said Brig. Gen. Ralph Baker, dep. comm. gen. for USD – Center, during a press conference earlier that day at USD-C HQ Camp Liberty. “I personally think that we’ll be able to look back and say that things were successful here in hindsight and not based upon any particular event.”

Some members of the media asked how Operation New Dawn would be different from Operation Iraqi Freedom. Maj. Gen. Terry Wolff, comm. gen. of 1st AR Div and USD-C, said the main difference is an end in U.S. combat ops. He said that ISF have effectively taken ownership and displayed competence and confidence in day-to-day missions throughout Iraq. “They tell us that they can provide security on a daily basis,” Wolff said.

IA soldiers navigate through an obstacle course.

An IA soldier waves the flag of Iraq, as part of a demonstration to signify the transition to Operation New Dawn.

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DVIDS

Senior Army Leader Inspires Soldiers During Visit

Story and photos by Sgt. Jorge Anaya

Sgt. Donachiko Faison-Cobb, Supply Support and Activities (SSA) stock control NCO, 40th QM Co, 110th CSSB, 224th Sust Bde, 103th ESC, and Pfc. Aminata Toure, SSA night shift clerk, and a Timbuktu, Africa, native, speak with Maj. Gen. Vincent Brooks, cmdr of USD-South, during his visit to the SSA yard, Aug. 11, at COB Adder.

COB ADDER — Brooks’ visit to COB Adder is one of several locations he visited on his tour around southern Iraq. His goal was to observe ops in theater, as well as to speak to the soldiers performing their everyday jobs. Brooks asked soldiers about their families, if they had everything they needed, and how they conducted ops, in order to assess efficiency, and identify areas in need of improvement.

“Soldiers are doing a great job here,” said Brooks as he talked to a soldier with the 40th QM Co, operating the SSA yard. “All right soldier, tell me about yourself.”
Those words echoed through every section and every yard Brooks visited.

“I was a bit nervous after being questioned directly by Maj. Gen. Brooks,” said Sgt. Donachiko Faison-Cobb. “When questioned at times, all we get is a quick ‘how are you doing?’ and that’s all. Maj. Gen. Brooks went into detail as to how I was doing. He demonstrated his commitment to soldiers by ensuring that answers were unrehearsed, to gain an insight as to what we do.”

Faison-Cobb stated that Brooks expressed true concern for soldiers by showing that, besides being a leader, he was also human and personable. Pfc. Aminata Toure, a Timbuktu, Africa, native, was another soldier who Brooks approached.

“It is nice to see how caring senior leaders are,” said Toure. “Maj. Gen. Brooks asked me of my long-term goals, and also asked where I was from. This was my first time talking to a high-ranking officer. I explained what my role in the SSA is, and my contribution to the overall mission.”

Warrant Officer Sorepa Thomas, supply systems tech, and an American Samoa native, briefs Maj. Gen. Brooks, commander, an Anchorage, Alaska, native, about the SSA ongoing support mission.

Leaders with the 40th QM Co, from Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, stand with Maj. Gen. Vincent Brooks (center), in front of the Joint Distribution Center HQ building.

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Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/9-03

Dear Interested Reader,

ANP making mark in Arghandab. Marjah ANP officer willing to sacrifice anything for Country. JSAS instructors train police officers. First ANA soldiers graduate from UAH course. Injured child treated at FOB Thunder.

Iraq: 512th QM Co sends PSD Soldier to learn Arabic. 'Lion-6 out,' Gen. Lloyd Austin III assumes command. OIF yields to Operation New Dawn.

Joanna

_______________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

DVIDS

Afghan Police Making Mark in Arghandab

Story by Staff Sgt. Jeremy Crisp

An ANP searches a villager heading into a bazaar at a local village, Aug. 26 in the Arghandab District, Kandahar. A U.S. SF team with Special Ops TF-South is partnered with 3rd Bn. and assists them with security in the area.

ARGHANDAB – It was only a year ago that the Afghan national civil order police (ANCOP) had a 60 to 80% attrition rate among its policemen, due to low morale, equipment issues, lack of basic resources and corruption. But, things have made a turn for the better, as attrition rates are down across the country.

For example, since partnering with CF, desertion is nearly nonexistent for the 3rd Bn. Only one man from 3rd Bn’s 198-strong unit has left the ranks in the past month-and-a-half, said the SF team leader, whose unit is responsible for training and fighting alongside 3rd Bn. “We treat them well, and we've a very high opinion of the team of which we're partnered,” he said.

The SF team and its support element work, train and fight side-by-side with their counterparts. Forty ANCOP policemen share the fire base with the SF team, and are trained for operational employment, and mounted and dismounted patrols. The rest of the bn operates 10 checkpoints along a major route leading through the area.

A typical day for the partnered units sees them visiting villages, interacting with locals and checking on ANCOP stationed at the checkpoints. Leading the ANCOP force is Lt. Col. Kohistani, cmdr of 3rd Bn. “It’s a good feeling to get out there and provide security for the people of Afghanistan,” Kohistani said.

To the SF team, he's a liaison between the 2 units and a coalition voice to villagers around the Arghanadab. Part of Kohistani’s role is to interact with villagers during joint patrols. He tries to quell any fears or doubts locals have about CF. He also lets them know his ANCOP and the SF team are doing everything they can to try and help the Afghan people. “It's part of my job to assure the people that the CF are here to help, to get rid of the Taliban, and to make sure the people of the area are secure,” he said.

A typical week for the ANCOP leader and the SF team begins with a security shura.
Leaders from the ANA, ANP, the district gov., and members of CF are usual attendees. The most recent shura raised issues of the ANP moving in to cover some checkpoints. It also focused on success in the region.

“We're all having a big impact on the enemy,” said Lt. Col. Robert Lemons, cmdr, TF 1 – 66, to various coalition and Afghan leaders at the shura. “We're disrupting the insurgent freedom of movement with the 1st and 3rd ANA Kandaks. We're causing the enemy to stay and fight, and this is critical to maintaining security.”

A day after the shura, members of the SF team went next door to put 40 ANCOP through their paces conducting dismounted patrolling maneuvers. It started with a class, splitting the ANCOP into 2 groups with 4 SF soldiers, a small, white, dry-erase board and 2 interpreters.

Class was in session when an SF weapons sgt. asked: “What are your hand signals for a column formation?” The policemen showed the proper hand signals.
The questions-and-answers continued until the weapons sgt. asked if one ANCOP could draw on the white board the proper way to get in a certain formation. Several ANCOP excitedly volunteered, but only one got the call.

Afghan police 2nd Lt. Hamayon, who has served 3 years with the ANP, and last year joined the ANCOP, quickly executed the proper formation on the white board.
“We always look forward to training,” he said. “That’s why we're the best. We're the best trained, best equipped, and we're ready to fight.”

Hamayon said he has no love for the Taliban, but wants them to reconcile with the govt. “We would like to see the Taliban join the govt, but if not, we will die to kill the Taliban and run them out of here,” he said.

Classroom training wrapped up after an hour. The SF team took the ANCOP outside to practice what they had learned; first on camp, then just outside the gate. Team members corrected any deficiencies during the practice patrol, and an after-action review of the days training showed that the ANCOP were ready for the mission.

The partnered team rolled in to the village bazaar the next day and quickly set up a security perimeter.

Kohistani and the SF team leader started discussing with the elders in the bazaar about the possibility of putting in an ANCOP checkpoint. The villagers were not very concerned about security in their area, as they hadn’t seen recent enemy activity. "However, the enemy lies just on the west side of the river," explained villager Mohammed Gul.

Gul, whose family was in the city to celebrate the upcoming Islamic holiday of Eid, allowed CF to look through his sprawling compound, to include a pomegranate orchard and several empty rooms. The place was deserted and CF were curious as to where everyone was. “We're preparing for a wedding,” Gul said.

It costs his family 400,000 Afghani to pay for the marriage. Those family members that weren’t in Kandahar City were busy working to try and come up with the wedding stipend. Gul helped the combined force by giving info he had to help keep peace in the area. He said, "the village and the bazaar were peaceful, and the villagers don’t allow Taliban to operate there."

After much discussion with the villagers, the SF team leader and Kohistani came to the conclusion that putting a checkpoint at the bazaar was not a good idea. The villagers were against the checkpoint proposed. They felt there was too little space, and the place was peaceful enough as it was.

“The villagers feel pretty safe here, and they feel the checkpoint would cause them to be targeted,” the team leader said. The ANCOP and SF team finished their assessment, felt they built a good rapport with the locals, and decided to call this part of their day ‘mission complete.’

Kohistani was ready to drop food and water at one of his checkpoints. The SF team leader offered his thanks to Kohistani before he left. He told him that his leadership style shows he's meant to have the position of cmdr. He told him that his policemen respect and admire him.

“Your work and leadership is the type that will have American forces out of the county, with the Afghans leading their own security,” the SF team leader told Kohistani outside the bazaar. “When that happens, your team will have to come back and vacation here,” Kohistani responded. “When you do, you can stay at my place any time.”

Policeman Shah Slahuden talks to village children. "It means a lot to me to serve my country, to provide for the future of Afghanistan - a safe Afghanistan," Slahuden said.

A policeman sets up a security checkpoint heading into a bazaar.

Policemen conduct a patrol under the tutelage of a Special Ops TF-South team, during a training session. "We occupy our area; we interact with the people, and we are professional," Kohistani said. "We're determined to hold our checkpoints and run the enemy away."

Policemen come to a security halt during a training patrol.

A Special Ops TF-South engr. sgt. gives guidance to a policeman with 3rd Bn.

Policeman Shah Slahuden comes to a security halt during a training patrol.

Lt. Col. Raheem Kohistani talks to NATO television reporter William Bonnett about the competency of his ANCOP policemen.

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Regional Command Southwest

Marjah Police Officer Willing to Sacrifice Anything for Country

Story by Lance Cpl. Jeremy Fasci

Allawadin, 24, a recruit in the police training program at the Joint Security Academy SW, Camp Leatherneck, stands in front of his platoon at JSAS, Aug. 29, 2010.

CAMP LEATHERNECK - Allawadin is lacking one very important feature necessary to being a cop here. Mainly, he doesn’t have a trigger finger. “According to the rules of the military, I shouldn’t be a policeman because I lost my finger, especially my trigger finger, but I will be one until I die,” Allawadin said.

Losing his index finger during a fire-fight with the Taliban didn’t faze his commitment to his family and community. He's been fighting the Taliban for the last 9 years in Marjah, and has seen first-hand the toll of Taliban intimidation on the people of Afghanistan. “I saw that the Taliban was bothering or killing the people that supported other govts,” Allawadin said. “I saw a lot of orphans who lost their families to this, and I couldn’t tolerate that.”

Even though his family was not broken during the Taliban’s rule, he still endured the consequences of their power. Taliban fighters destroyed his school when he was in 9th grade, forcing him to continue his studies at home.

His father, a teacher, educated Allawadin after his school was destroyed, allowing him to become well educated, despite the Taliban’s push for the destruction of formal education in Afghanistan.

Seeing the terrible things the Taliban were doing to the people of Marjah, Allawadin decided to become a police officer to help protect his community. By doing this, he has put himself and his family in harm’s way to make things safer for the people of his community.

After becoming a policeman he opted to move his family to Lashkar Gah, the capital of Helmand prov., to ensure their safety. “They were shooting at our homes in Marjah, because we worked with the govt,” Allawadin said.

When Allawadin first joined the police force there were no official recruiting offices or police stations in Marjah. The lack of formal govt in the area made it difficult for the police to receive training or receive pay. “We didn’t get paid for almost 5 years, because we didn’t train at the academy,” Allawadin said. “Now in Helmand prov. there are police offices, so we went there, joined and came here for training.”

His experience as a policeman made Allawadin a prime candidate to attend the training at JSAS. He has knowledge and skills that can only be learned by being in the field, and demands only the best from his fellow recruits.

“He demands a lot from his leaders,” said 1st Lt. Nicholas Wilkes, a team officer-in-charge at JSAS. “He's very forceful and gives direction. He does a very good job of corporal-level leadership, probably one of the best I’ve ever seen.”

Experience alone did not make this recruit stand out at JSAS. The JSAS instructors dubbed him ‘trigger finger’ after shooting tight groups and being the best shot on the range, using his middle finger in place of his index finger.

“My biggest goal is to serve my country and fight against our enemies,” Allawadin said. “My other goal is to make the tribal fighting go away. We are just Afghans, we are all brothers. If this kind of fighting doesn’t go away our country is not going to get better.”

Allawadin, a recruit in the police training program at the Joint Security Academy Southwest, Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan, shows the hand he lost a finger from. He has been fighting the Taliban as a police officer for nine years and lost his trigger finger in the line of duty.

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Regional Command Southwest

JSAS Instructors Train Police Officers

Story by Cpl. Brian Gabriel Jr.

Cpl. Tyler Rousselle, 22, a Joint Security Academy SW (JSAS) instructor, explains proper weapons handling to an ANP recruit during a field exercise at Camp Leatherneck, Aug. 29, 2010.

CAMP LEATHERNECK - Security throughout Helmand prov. has steadily increased due to the constant push of formally-trained ANP officers out to cities. These police officers are receiving their training from coalition forces-run academies.

Cpl. Tyler Rousselle volunteered to train police recruits how to protect their communities. The infantryman was offered the year-long position, while serving as a squad leader with 1st Bn, 7th Marine Regt. Although the details of his future job were not provided, he jumped at the chance to deploy to Afghanistan when the opportunity arose. He found that his new role as an instructor was not a far cry from being an infantryman.

"An infantry squad leader and an Afghan police trainer may have similarities, but JSAS instructors quickly find that their new job training Afghan police recruits demands more direct supervision than teaching junior infantry Marines," Rousselle asserts.

“Instructors stay with the class from when they show up to when they leave,” the 4-1/2 year veteran said. “The entire time we're working with that class, we eat, train and live in the same compound as them.”

Akin to the routine of a Marine drill instructor, JSAS instructors are awake every morning well before the students begin their day. The police trainers wake their students every morning, inspect the recruits’ uniforms, and march them to the dining facility for breakfast. Immediately afterwards, the recruits begin their training for the day.

The 8-week, ANP course covers a wide variety of policing fundamentals that recruits will use after graduation. Students may find themselves learning in a classroom environment, or getting hands-on experience in a field setting. The training cycle begins with classroom instruction on basic hygiene, first aid, and drill. As the class progresses, JSAS instructors impart knowledge on tactical skills including patrolling, convoying, and weapons handling.

Abdulbari, a JSAS recruit, looks forward to using the policing skills taught by his Marine instructors in his hometown of Marjah. “We're happy to work with Marines,” Abdulbari said. “We're proud to work with them, because they came to our country to serve and help us with bringing security to our country. We respect them—they’re like our brothers.”

Not only do the JSAS recruits benefit from the fast paced training regimen, but the instructors also use the course to hone their original skill set. “You’re able to keep up on your basic infantry skills,” Rousselle said. “When they leave JSAS, they’re doing basic infantry work out in the field, and they’re working with infantry Marines.

Rousselle hopes he'll walk away from this deployment with a better understanding for Muslim culture, especially by working during Ramadan. During the holy Islamic month of Ramadan, practicing Muslims fast daily from dawn to sunset. JSAS instructors are no exception to this rule—they also observe the fast during training.
“You understand why they’re tired when you haven’t drunk any water all day, either,” Rousselle said.

In order to improve the ongoing partnership between American and Afghan forces, Rouselle said that he'll share his experiences teaching and working with Afghans to his Marines when he returns home. “I definitely picked up a lot of the Afghan culture,” Rouselle said. “I understand why and how things work a little bit better in the Muslim world, compared to before I came out here. I’ll definitely be passing on a lot of this info when I get back to the states.”

Cpl. Tyler Rousselle explains how to properly clear a room to an ANP recruit during a field exercise.

Cpl. Rousselle demonstrates how to clean and maintain an AK-47.

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Regional Command Southwest

First ANA Soldiers Graduate From UAH Course

Story by Lance Cpl. Jeremy Fasci

ANA soldiers from the 215th Corps listen to the guest speakers during their graduation of the up-armored humvee (UAH) course at the Joint Security Academy Southwest (JSAS), Camp Leatherneck, Aug. 26. The soldiers participated in a 5-week course that taught the basic fundamentals of driving.

“This course is one that we've started so far in the continuation training process,” said Col. Robert Golden, director of ANSF development for RC-SW. “The one issue we have here in Afghanistan is that we've been doing a lot of basic training with the police and the army. The follow-on training or continuation training is what needs to be addressed now. That’s the future for Afghanistan.”

Soldiers were taught basic fundamentals of driving UAHs and light tactical vehicles (LTVs). They were also taught preventative maintenance to help soldiers keep vehicles in good condition. "Soldiers can learn to drive in a couple of hours. Learning how to fix the vehicles takes time and is just as important," said Brig. Gen. Malouk, the comm. gen. of the ANA’s 215th Corps. “The 5-week training was very good,” Malouk said.
Before graduation the students were required to pass a final exam incorporating all the skills taught. “Hopefully, as a result of this course, we'll prevent the loss of lives in the future,” Golden said.

Brig. Gen. Malouk salutes a soldier graduating.

Three soldiers show off the certificates they received after graduating. The group of 41 were the first to attend the course.

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DVIDS

Afghan, American Medical Professionals Treat Injured Child

Story by Sgt. Spencer Case

An Afghan child at the ANA-run Paktya Regional Medical Hospital at FOB Thunder sits on his bed the morning after surgery, Aug. 31. The child, who suffered a severe laceration of the foot, was the hospital’s first pediatric patient in months, and a special challenge for the Afghan medical professionals who were inexperienced in pediatric care.

PAKTYA PROVINCE -- ANA hospitals don't normally do pediatric work, but when civilians have nowhere else to go, ANA doctors often find ways to accommodate them. The drama began when the 2-1/2 year old child wandered outside while his father was breaking stone. No one at the hospital was exactly sure what caused the laceration, but U.S. AF physician Maj. Robert Sarlay Jr., an advisor to the hospital with the Medical ETT at nearby FOB Lightning, speculated that a sharp fragment of rock might have been the culprit.

Within hours of the child receiving the injury, the father took him to the closest CF base, COP Tillman, to receive treatment. Before long, it was determined the child would need to seek a higher level care. The 2 were then transported by priority medical evacuation on a Black Hawk helicopter to Paktya Regional Medical Hospital at FOB Thunder.

X-rays taken after his arrival to the hospital showed the laceration to be a flesh wound only - a “partial de-gloving of the foot” in medical parlance - and not a compound fracture as some had feared. The child was then taken to the emergency room and put under anesthesia so that Afghan medical professionals could clean, irrigate and close the wound.

“They the Afghans did a very good job, especially with the closure,” said AF Maj. James Olanda, a certified registered nurse and anesthetist with the FOB Lightning METT, who was present in the emergency room when the child was being treated.

Many civilians do not go to these hospitals, however – and those that do prefer to keep their anonymity – because they fear reprisals from the Taliban, said AF Lt. Col. David Gill, the cmdr of the METT at FOB Lightning.

The Afghan professionals, who hadn’t seen a pediatric case in months, also had reason to be nervous. “They were initially very hesitant to take the patient because pediatrics is a whole different field than adult medical care,” said Olanda.

Nevertheless, all signs show that the procedure was successful. “This morning the kid was as happy as can be,” Sarlay said. “He’s back laughing and playing. Kids bounce back like that.”

AF Maj. James Olanda administers anesthesia.

An Afghan medical professional dresses a foot laceration.

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DVIDS

Female Personal Security Awareness

Photo by Staff Sgt. Ashley Moreno

KANDAHAR PROVINCE - An ANP trainee bandages Army 1st Lt. Lisa Merwin during ANP security self-awareness training, which was developed by the Norwegian Police, at Kandahar City, July 28. The Canadian Civilian Police have continued this program in Kandahar City to provide the female ANP officers personal security awareness on and off duty.

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DVIDS

Women's Afghan National Police Graduation

Photo by Spc. Tracy Weeden

Date: 05.08.2010
Posted: 09.01.2010 05:20

KANDAHAR AIRFIELD - Army 1st Lt. Elizabeth Merwin, E Co, TF Shadow maintenance plt leader hugs a graduate of the Women's ANP training course in Kandahar province, to congratulate her after assisting with the training.

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IRAQI STORIES:

DVIDS

512th Quartermaster Company Sends PSD Soldier to Learn Arabic

Story and photo by 2nd Lt. Blair Grimes

Sgt. Jones, a truck cmdr with the 512th Quartermaster Co, 13th CSSB, 3rd Sust Bde, 103rd ESC, studies Arabic after taking an 8-day course at Victory Base Complex, Aug. 21, 2010.

VICTORY BASE COMPLEX — All good relationships are built on effective communication. This is just as true in Iraq as it is anywhere else. With this in mind, the Personal Security Det (PSD) with the 13th CSSB, made the most of an opportunity to send one of its own to a beginners’ Arabic course. He was one of only 50 students, ranging from specialists to lt. cols.

“The training that the Soldiers received is necessary for the PSD mission and its success,” said Staff Sgt. Jeremiah Thomas, a PSD section sgt with the 512th. The Arabic course was taught by 6 Iraqis. "It started at 8 a.m. and lasted until the late evening," said Jones. The first few days of the class consisted of learning common social greetings and the Arabic alphabet.

“We moved onto religion, politics, corruption, history and their daily life,” Jones added, emphasizing that the course was more than just a language class. It was a “cultural immersion.”

Jones was also introduced to what Iraqis thought about the presence of the U.S. in their country, and how the military’s drawdown would affect Iraqis. “We learned their views on the U.S. military and the war, and how us leaving will impact them,” he said.

Jones also said this training will help him outside of the wire in case the team has to interact with Iraqi citizens. “If we come across any locals, having someone who can start a conversation will put them at ease with our presence.”

On a small, but important, scale, the efforts of Jones and his teammates to communicate successfully with the citizens of Iraq will bring the citizens of the U.S. and Iraq closer, while increasing the security of moving key military leaders to and from engagements that support the drawdown of U.S. forces from Iraq.

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USF-I

'Lion-6 out,' Austin assumes command

Written by Jim Garamone, Office of the Secretary of Defense PA

Army Gen. Ray Odierno greets Iraqi counterparts at the end of the change of command ceremony for USF-Iraq in Baghdad, Sept. 1, 2010. Army Gen. Lloyd Austin III relieved Odierno as cmdr of the remaining forces in Iraq, marking the end of U.S. combat ops in the country. (DoD photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Chad McNeeley)

CAMP VICTORY - Gen. Ray Odierno put it very simply, as he finished his address at the change of command ceremony for USF-Iraq. "Lion-6 out," Odierno said, meaning that the cmdr had finished using his call sign here, and was heading out for his new assignment at U.S. Joint Forces Command in Norfolk, Va.

The ceremony was held here at Al Faw Palace – an ornate edifice built near the Baghdad airport by Saddam Hussein to commemorate the victory over Iran in 1988. "The mission here, though, remains important to the U.S. and to the region," said Defense Secretary Robert Gates. Gates took the opportunity to focus on the troops still in Iraq that will serve in an advise and assist role for ISF. "Even as the weight of our military efforts and public attention has shifted to Afghanistan, you should know your work here going forward is critical to the future of this part of the world, and to the national security of our country," the secretary said. "You have my gratitude and respect for your service and sacrifice, and for the service and sacrifice of your families."

Gates praised Odierno for his leadership in Iraq. During Odierno's tenure, the command shifted from MNF-Iraq to USF-Iraq. Odierno shifted American forces out of the cities and sculpted the advise and assist mission that all 6 U.S. bdes in country now have. He did all this while redeploying 74,000 service members back to the U.S.

Odierno received his new job after only a 7-month break after serving as the corps cmdr in Baghdad. "He leaves as one of the few Army generals in history to command a division, corps and entire theater in the same conflict," Gates said.

The general crafted the tactics American forces and their allies used to fight a counterinsurgency (COIN) campaign. "As any student of military history knows, any strategy is only as effective as its execution, and without Ray's ability to turn plans into results on the ground, we would be facing a far grimmer situation outside these walls today," Gates said.

Odierno returned to command all forces in Iraq. His mission was to build on the hard-fought gains of the surge, keep the proverbial boot on the neck of AQI, and expand the capacity and capabilities of Iraq's army and police.

"The dedication of Gen. Odierno, the sacrifices of the troops under his command, and the efforts of our interagency and Iraqi partners made it possible to be where we are today – with a dramatically reduced troop presence and a new mission," the secretary said.

Gates said the command is fortunate to get Austin as the new cmdr. The gen. most recently served as the Dir. of the Joint Staff. Before that he was the corps cmdr in Iraq, and served with the 3rd ID in the initial invasion of Iraq in 2003.

"Lloyd Austin – like Ray Odierno – has always led by example, asking nothing of his troops that he would not do himself," Gates said. "He has the unique distinction of being awarded the Silver Star for valor as a general officer, leading from the front during the 3rd ID's march to Baghdad more than 7 years ago.

"I know he will use his extraordinary talents and experience to build on the success that has been achieved in Iraq, success bought with the blood and sweat of all who have served here," the secretary continued.

Odierno reflected on Iraqi and American accomplishments in the country. "This period in Iraq's history will probably be remembered for sacrifice, resiliency and change," he said. "But, I will remember it as a time when the Iraqi people stood up against tyranny, terrorism, extremism, and decided to determine their own destiny as a people and as a democratic state."

The Iraqis, Odierno said, had the help of an incredibly dedicated group of American military personnel and civilians. "I never lost faith in the adaptability, courage and mental toughness of our service members and civilians to get the job done," he said. "If there's one lesson I've taken from our involvement here, it's the sheer magnitude of what we're capable of when we trusted ourselves and focused on our commitment, and worked side-by-side, arm-in-arm with our Iraqi partners."

Odierno urged Iraqi politicians to move quickly to form a representative govt based on the results of the March 7 elections. "A peaceful transition of power following the peaceful and credible elections," he said, "is the strongest possible response to al-Qaeda and other terrorist orgs."

The Iraqi people have sent a message to their leaders, Odierno said. "I urge all the political blocs to respond by forming a govt that is representative of the peoples' will," the general said. "It's time for Iraq to move forward."

"The region will benefit from a stable Iraq," Austin said, noting that Iraq can be a democratic cornerstone of progress in a troubled area. He thanked service members, their civilian compatriots and the Iraqi govt for forging new, peaceful relationships with its neighbors.

"Although challenges remain, we'll face these challenges together," Austin said. "Iraq still faces a hostile enemy that is determined to end her progress, and Iraq's enemies will continue to try to pursue their objectives. "But, make no mistake: our military forces here and those of the Iraqi nation remain committed to insuring that our friends in Iraq will succeed," he continued. "We'll demonstrate our commitment through a continued partnership, and we'll help the Iraqis develop their capability to provide for their own national defense, by advising and assisting, training and equipping the SECFOR."

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U.S. Forces – Iraq PAO

OIF yields to Operation New Dawn

Operation New Dawn began here Sept. 1, 2010. U.S. Forces now have 3 primary missions: advising, assisting, and training the ISF; conducting partnered counterterrorism (COIN) ops; and providing support to PRTs and our civilian partners, as they help build Iraq’s civil capacity.

CAMP VICTORY – The Depts of Defense and State, along with int'l and nongovernmental orgs., will continue working together, assisting as Iraq builds civil capacity. This transition represents a change in the nature of U.S. commitment to the govt and people of Iraq, but not a change in the level of commitment. The U.S. will continue to strengthen its enduring strategic partnership with Iraq.

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Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/9-02

Dear Interested Reader,

TF Red Knight captures 3, locates weapons cache in Khost prov. Panjshir PRT distributes school supplies. All hands help with road repair in Deh Chopan. Dragoons help Afghan AF. Medical Engagement Team improve health in Kandahar prov.

Iraq: The 403rd ICTC are 'superstars.' JBB celebrates Women's Equality Day. Commandos take lead in Salah Ad Din mission. Suspected criminal assocs. arrested in east Mosul.

Joanna

______________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

RC-East, Bagram Media Center

TF Red Knight captures 3, locates weapons cache

Written by Army Sgt. Brent Powell

Army Soldiers with the Focused Tactical Force, 3rd BCT, 101st AD, run towards a CH-47 helicopter following an air-assault operation in Bak, July 7. (Photo by Army Pfc. Chris McKenna)

KHOWST PROVINCE – The combination of weapons, ammo, IEDs and enemy insurgents spell danger for any CF facing them. Fortunately, a highly-skilled group of Soldiers make it their mission to locate, capture or destroy insurgents and their weapons before they can be used against friendly forces.

The Soldiers are from TF Red Knight’s Focused Targeting Force (FTF), a specialized team including members of HHB, 3rd Bn, 320th FAR, as well as a group of ANA Soldiers, a team of EOD personnel, U.S. law enforcement personnel, a Counter IED team and a Human Intel Team.

In all, the FTF is comprised of more than 60 specialized personnel. Together they have conducted more than 40 successful missions, capturing 15 joint priority targets as well as weapons, ammo and IED parts.

On one recent mission the team air-assaulted into a local village. Their goal was to locate a suspected weapons cache and various materials used to make homemade explosives. “We got some info early in the morning about a possible pending attack from this location,” said Capt. Ryan Thomas, FTF Plt Leader. “This was a time-sensitive target, and we didn’t have much time to plan for it.”

Despite the short notice, the team was able to quickly mobilize and conduct the op. The first step was air-assaulting into the area via helicopters. Once on the ground, the FTF surrounded the suspected enemy compound and began systematically searching and clearing each room for signs of enemy activity.

In one room the team located copper wire, a clothespin operated switch, various electronic components and a blasting cap. Another room held an AK-47 rifle with 4 mags, a grenade, 8 cell-phones and 9 cassette tapes. The Soldiers also discovered a machine gun, several ID cards, nearly 70 rounds of 7.62 ammo, batteries, binoculars, and a propaganda poster.

“This was a great mission and a very successful one,” said Staff Sgt. Jonathan Cole, squad leader. “We were able to take a lot of items into evidence. Hopefully that'll lead to future intel, and more enemy forces and weapons off the battlefield.”

In addition to collecting evidence, the team also detained 3 possible insurgents, 1 of which was a high-priority target. “We were able to successfully insert our team and complete our mission with no shots fired, and nothing was damaged,” said Thomas. “We definitely separated enemy forces from the populace, and lived up to all the counter-insurgency (COIN) principles in the process.”

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Panjshir PRT distributes school supplies

Photos by AF Tech. Sgt. Sean White, Panjshir PRT

PANJSHIR PROVINCE – Army Master Sgt. Chad Rhinehart, Panjshir PRT’s civil affairs NCO-in-charge, hands out notebooks to students who attend the Kur Petab boys' middle school in Khenj District, Aug. 23. The notebooks were donated by numerous friends and family members of the Panjshir PRT.

Students happy with their new notebooks.

The principal of the school expresses his gratitude, after Master Sgt. Chad Rhinehart and Spc. Christopher Buckley, a Panjshir PRT civil affairs team member, handed out notebooks.

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DVIDS

ANP Receives Local Help With Road Repair in Deh Chopan

Story by Sgt. Gerald Wilson

A local Afghan boy helps ANSF and coalition soldiers stack rocks to repair the new road, August 30.

ZABUL – ANP officers and soldiers from 1st Plt, Delta Co, of the 1st Bn, 4th Inf Regt, recently took time from their patrols to help the villagers in the Deh Chopan District, by repairing the road to the local bazaar.

While on patrol, the ANP and “Red Tank” soldiers discovered that all roads and bridges west of the bazaar had been washed out, and made impassible by recent rain storms. First Plt recognized that this road represented the only route to cross the river and travel west from the bazaar. Soldiers of Delta Co assessed the situation and immediately began the necessary repairs.

Children from the local villages saw the Soldiers working, and came out to give them a hand. Soon the kids were working side-by-side with the Soldiers. It wasn’t all hard work, however. During their breaks, Red Tank soldiers took the opportunity to teach the kids how to play the popular game of Tag.

By the time they were done with the project, ANP, Red Tank soldiers and their diminutive crew had built 2 new fording points in the river, and rebuilt 300 meters of roadway. In the end the citizens Deh Chopan were grateful to the govt forces for providing them a way to once again transport their goods to market, and the children were happy to have made some new American friends.

Stacking rocks to make a new shoulder of the road.

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DVIDS

Dragoons Help Afghan Air Force

Story by Sgt. Gerald Wilson

Air Mobility Liaison Officer, AF Lt. Col. Stacy Massey, left, teaches Sfc. Ricardo Morales how to check for wind velocity, Aug. 26, 2010.

ZABUL - After some intensive training in air mobility ops from their AF counterparts, Dragoons from FIRES Sqdrn of the 2nd Stryker Cav Regt had the chance to show what they'd learned, during a joint air drop exercise with the Afghan National AF.

The purpose of the op was to establish a landing strip and drop zone near Qalat, that would allow supplies and equipment to be flown into the area to support the troops on the ground. The permanent strip will also provide for easier troop movement into and out of theater.

“We're trying to make this area into a more permanent air field,” said Sfc. Ricardo Morales, NNC-in-charge of the landing zone, “where troops and logistical support can be flown directly into the battlefield. This will be a trial run using a C27A cargo plane, piloted by members of the Afghan National AF,” Morales explained. “The crew will land the plane then take-off again and do a series of air-drops over the landing zone.”

Morales describe what makes this event a significant moment. “This is a first for the Regt to set something like this up,” Morales said. “It's also going to be a very vital part of logistical support for future Soldiers coming in.”

Morales and his team underwent an intensive 2-day training course in order to execute these op. “We covered all the aspects of how to set up a landing zone and drop zone,” Morales explained.

The team was supervised during the op by the Air Mobility Liaison Officer, Lt. Col. Stacy Maxey, who was quite pleased with his students’ performance. “It's been really good training all the way around,” Maxey said. “It’s been a real pleasure to work with Soldiers from 2SCR.”

Maxey stressed the importance of these types of ops to the overall mission in Afghanistan. “These are the kind of ops that are allowing the war fighter to conduct combat sustainment and support ops in a wide variety of environments,” he said. “From this environment to a winter environment, it's these capabilities that give our war fighters the edge they need when times are tough.”

At the end of the day the mission was declared a success, with 2 smooth landings and 4 cargo drops. This capability will allow the ANSF and their Coalition Allies better access to needed logistical support.

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DVIDS

Medical Engagement Team improve health in Kandahar

Story by Sgt. Gerald Wilson

Mission Accomplished: The Medical Engagement Team poses for a photo with some of the children they treated during their recent clinic in Masruf, August 30.

KANDAHAR PROVINCE – For the first time in 2 years, the government of the GoA sponsored a Combined Medical Engagment at the Maruf District Center. The CME provided basic health care to the local citizens.

The event was also held to promote the new health clinic that is slated to open in the district center later this fall. ANP and Border Patrol worked as translators and assisted coalition medics in serving their patients.

Despite Ramadan activities, many of the patients seen that day travelled more than 15 kms from as far as the Maruf/Wam Valley. At the end, more than 100 patients, many women and children were treated by the medical staff.

“This was a fine example for the citizens of Maruf,” said a spokesman for the event. “It really stresses to them that the district govt really cares about them, and is doing everything it can to provide for the needs of the people.”

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DVIDS

Ramadan

Photos by Lance Cpl. Andrew Johnston

Marines and sailors with 2nd Bn, 9th Marine Regt, eat dinner with the ANP in Marjah, Aug. 18, 2010, during the month-long celebration of Ramadan. In observance of the religious holiday, Muslims are not allowed to eat or drink during daylight hours, which lead to feasts like these once the sun sets.

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IRAQI STORIES:

DVIDS

The 403rd ICTC are ‘superstars’

Story and photos by Sgt. Gaelen Lowers

Trucks and cargo line up in preparation for a convoy, Aug. 18, at the Victory Base Complex, central receiving and shipping point.

VICTORY BASE COMPLEX — As the old adage goes, when someone takes over the tasks and duties of a highly accredited and accomplished person, “you have some big shoes to fill.” Now imagine that there isn’t just one pair of shoes to fill, but hundreds, each pair larger than the last.

This was the situation that the 403rd Inland Cargo Transportation Co (ICTC), 13th CSSB, 3rd Sust Bde, 103rd ESC, faced when they were tasked to take over the Central Receiving and Shipping Point (CRSP) ops of 6 different bases and camps throughout U.S. Div.-North and U.S. Div.-Center. “My 150 soldiers replaced an excess of 400 soldiers,” said Capt. Eric Bechard, cmdr of the 403rd ICTC. “The numbers are pretty astounding.”

Originally tasked with taking over the CRSP at JBB and COB Adder, the unit’s mission changed drastically during the plane ride from the U.S. to Kuwait. “When we deployed from Fort Bragg, N.C., that is what we expected to do,” said Bechard. “By the time we reached Camp Buehring, Kuwait, our mission started changing.”

Instead of the original 2 locations that the company expected to have, the number rose to 4, and then to 6. “We were a little nervous,” he said. “We asked ourselves, ‘how are we going to do this?’ and ‘How are we going to make this happen?’ I have some pretty good senior leaders, officers and NCOs. They're well-trained and have positive attitudes.”

According to Bechard, the company started preparing their soldiers for this type of op back in February. “We've been training them to be pushed around the battlefield and do things that they aren’t normally expected to do, so they have an open mind.”

This amount of responsibility and workload has become commonplace for units and their leadership, in the wake of the massive drawdown of U.S. troops and equipment from Iraq. “Same mission, huge footprint, and we’re still pushing the same amount of cargo through the same places that those 400-plus Soldiers were pushing around before,” said Bechard. “My guys are managing the drawdown with respects to the moving of logistical cargo through the CRSP. I’m very happy, very pleased.”

1st Lt. KiAnna Walker, Victory Base Complex (VBC) CRSP officer-in-charge with the 403rd, said that the challenges were great, but her Soldiers were accomplishing their mission with very few deficiencies. “I've 30 soldiers working under me,” she said. “The company that we replaced had 60, so we're working with half of the workforce as our predecessors. Although the manpower was cut in half, it doubled our determination to continue the mission.”

With soldiers scattered throughout northern and central Iraq, it's hard to keep track of soldiers, but Bechard said that his company is full of soldiers and leaders who do the right thing, so it makes his job easy.

“Do we like it? No,” he continued. “My 1st Sgt. and I don’t like having our guys all over the place, but you don’t have to tell these guys day in and day out what to do. They're just out there doing it. They're well trained and professional enough to go out there and be superstars.”

A rough-terrain container handler loads a connex container onto a flat-bed trailer to ship it off to Kuwait.

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DVIDS

Joint Base Balad Celebrates Women’s Equality Day

Story and photos by Sgt. Jessica Rohr

Soldiers and airmen share lunch as they listen to Col. Lisa Costanza, cmdr, 224th Sust Bde, 103rd ESC, at the Women's Equality Month Observance, Aug. 26.

JOINT BASE BALAD - Aug. 26, 1920, was a turning point in American history, as the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was ratified, giving women the right to vote. Ninety years later, the JBB Equal Opportunity Team, made up of both Army and AF personnel, took the opportunity to celebrate.

Lt. Col. Lucila Ibarra, the senior equal opportunity advisor and sexual assault response coordinator with the 103rd ESC, welcomed distinguished guests, soldiers, and airmen with a riveting opening speech on the history of women’s equality.

“Women’s equality was first established Aug, 26, 1971, through an official Presidential Proclamation attributed to Rep. Bella Abzug, first Jewish Congresswoman,” said Ibarra. “In 2003, Command Sgt. Maj. Michelle Jones became the 1st female sgt. maj. for the Army Reserves,” proclaimed Ibarra. “In 1865, Dr. Mary Walker, a contract surgeon during the Civil War, was the first and only woman to receive the Congressional Medal of Honor.”

The guest speaker, Col. Lisa Costanza focused her thoughts on women’s equality in the military, comparing the hard work of women’s rights pioneers to the selfless service of service members.

“Through life, so many things transpire; some work harder, some study harder, some have better family dynamics, some have more opportunities growing up, sometimes some just have better luck. Some people, when you get down to it, are more gifted and more talented," said Costanza.

“What does it all mean?” Costanza asked. “I believe that if you work hard and use your talents, you can and will succeed. You can be anything you want if you work, and study and prepare. Maybe there is no luck, and good things come to those who prepare and are prepared when opportunities arise.”

The luncheon came to a resounding close as poetry contest winner, Sgt. Sigrid Mabel, a theater redistributable assets mgr with HHC, 3rd Bn,156th Inf Regt, read her poem, “Poem of Our History.” She also shared her thoughts about the day’s events. “I was amazed at how many men supported the women’s equality event, and I think, that, maybe has been an overlooked aspect of women’s history,” said Mabel. “We've had allies all along in the men that encouraged us to be equals, and the amazing women we've become.”

Guest speaker Col. Lisa Costanza speaks about equality in the military.

Brig. Gen. Mark Corson, cmdr, 103rd ESC, introduces first place winner of the poetry contest, Sgt. Sigrid Mabel.

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United States Division-North

Commandos Take Lead, Arrest Wanted Individuals

By Capt. Timothy Nash

Capt. Chris DeFiori, the cmdr of Co B, 1st Bn, 27th Inf Regt, 2nd AAB, 25th ID, and Staff Brig. Gen. Emad discuss the op on the objective in Zanjaliyah Village, Aug. 23.

SALAH AD DIN PROVINCE — Iraqi commandos cordoned off an area in the village of Zanjaliyah, and arrested 5 wanted individuals. The mission was intended to be a combined op, but U.S. soldiers were present only to provide support, if needed.

“It was really more of an accompanied op than a combined op,” said Col. Jack Daniels, the 4th IA Division Stability Transition Team Chief and the senior adviser to 4th IA Div. “All the intel data was Iraqi driven. The ops plan was Iraqi driven, and the majority of the troops that took part were Iraqi troops. We just provided support from 1/27. Frankly, they could have done it as an independent op.”

The op began as an assessment of the 4th IA’s capabilities to plan and execute a mission, which was developed with minimal support or assistance from U.S. forces.
Capt. Chris DeFiori, co. cmdr for Co B, 1/27th Inf., thinks the Iraqi soldiers in the 4th IA need very little direct support during their missions.

“A lot of the times we have to provide a convincing reason for them to take us, because they're a lot more confident, and can really handle a lot of this on their own,” said DeFiori. “In the past they’ve needed us for everything.”

According to Daniels, the mission was a great success that delivered a message to both the ISF in Salah ad-Din and their U.S. counterparts. For Americans, it shows that the ISF and, more specifically, the 4th IA are willing and capable to take over security from the U.S. military when soldiers leave Iraq in 2011.

"The next step," said Daniels, "is helping the IA work with IP, as well as the local and federal court systems. “I think what we’re going to see in the 4th IA’s area is more and more of the Army working collectively with the police to conduct combined missions,” said Daniels.

Col. Gallup, the IA cmdr., talks with Iraqi civilians near Tuz, about the efforts of the IA and U.S. forces to bring security to the area.

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Aug. 30, 2010

AQI suspected criminal associates arrested in East Mosul

BAGHDAD - ISF and U.S. advisors searched several buildings for a suspected AQI leader, allegedly responsible for extorting money from oil-related contractors and

oil transportation workers, in order to fund terrorist ops.

Info and evidence at the scene led ISF and U.S. advisors to identify and arrest 2 suspected criminal assocs, during a joint security op conducted in east Mosul, Aug. 30.

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Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/ 9-01

Dear Interested Reader,

Khost PRT Army Corp. gives back to orphanage. Artillerymen blast insurgents in support of TF Iron Grey. Ghazni PRT checks on archaeological sites. Maj. Gen. Lyon visits FOB Mehtar Lam.

Iraq: 632nd ramps up for convoy ops. Subsistence support for on-the-move convoys. Transition marks continuing work. Suspected JAM member killed, criminal associate arrested.

Joanna

____________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Khost PRT Army corporal gives back to orphanage

Story and photos by AF Senior Airman Julianne Showalter, Khost PRT

Army Cpl. Jerome Halaszynski, Khost PRT security element, screws together the frame of a wooden chest, Aug. 15. The 40 chests that will be given to the Khost city Children of Hope Orphanage took about 2 weeks and roughly 50 hours of labor to make.

KHOST PROVINCE – The Khost PRT reached out to the Children of Hope orphanage by giving them wooden chests for the children to have at the foot of their beds, Aug. 22.

The chests were not purchased on the local economy or contracted out, but hand-made by Army Cpl. Jerome Halaszynski, also known by his fellow military members as “Ski.”

The project was the brain child of Navy Cmdr. Cynthia Kuehner, Khost PRT nurse practitioner, but once she handed the project over to Halaszynski, he ran with it.

“She had an idea, and I told her I would do it. She gave me a picture, and I took it from there. I estimated the size of their beds, and kind of just worked backwards, and tried to minimize the wood used,” said Halaszynski.

“I’ve been down and out a few times in my life, and there’s always been someone there to pick me up. In this case, with these orphans in the middle of Afghanistan, they don’t have that person there to pick them up and get them back on the road,” said Halaszynski.

This isn’t the first project Halaszynski has taken on. He’s made or fixed many items for the PRT to make other Soldiers lives a bit easier. “Ski helps the guys have a sense of personal space in their room. It’s the one place on the FOB they can go and have it set up the way they want it. Stuff like that improves morale,” said Staff Sgt. James Miller, Khost PRT security element. “He does a lot around here for people; he really does go above and beyond his team leader duties. He’s got to worry about the people beneath him, and, on top of that, you can go and talk to him about something, and he takes the time to make it for you.”

Miller asked Halaszynski to build a desk for him after his broke, and remembers the day he walked into his room to find a newly built desk waiting for him. “Our squad went on a mission and got stuck because one of our vehicles rolled over, and when we got back, it was there all set up. I didn’t expect for it to be there,” said Miller. “He even built a flag holder on the top for the flag I had folded in my room. It’s the first flag flown at the start of our deployment and means a lot to me.”

Halaszynski attributes his passion for carpentry to one of his high school teachers, Michael Lock, from McKeesport High School, Pa., and the Youth Apprenticeship Program he participated in during his junior and senior years.

He also credits his generous nature to the positive influence of his parents James and Judith Halaszynski. “I’ve seen my dad plenty of times go out of his way to help somebody, and that inspires me to do the same,” said Halaszynski.

Cpl. Jerome Halaszynski hands a chest to one of the teachers. Some of the older children and teachers helped unload the chests that will be given to children living at the facility to store personal items.

Navy Cmdr. Cynthia Kuehner helps carry in chests.

Cpl. Halaszynski shakes hands with the headmaster. He was very appreciative and excited to improve the quality of life for the orphans staying at the facility. The school is specialized to teach and house children that have lost one or both parents due to hostile circumstances.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Artillerymen blast insurgents in support of TF Iron Grey

Photos by Army Spc. Richard Daniels, TF Bastogne

LAGHMAN PROVINCE -- Soldiers of 6th Section, 3rd Plt, A Btry, 2nd Bn, 320th FAR, TF Balls fired 30 rounds and were credited with about 10 enemies killed in action in support of ops conducted by TF Iron Grey, Aug. 10.

Sgt. John Rhodus, 3rd Plt gunner, lines up the reticule pattern in his sight on his aiming reference.

Pfc. Anthony Jefferson (left), Pfc. Bradley Daniell, and Staff Sgt. Jeremy Ardoin conduct a fire direction crew drill in the back of a MRAP vehicle.

Spc. Nathaniel Hogan, Pfc. Jordan Gaddy, and Pfc. Matthew Wiebers load 95-lb projectile into the howitzer.

(Left) Sgt. John Rhodus sights onto his aiming reference. Pfc. Matthew Wiebers prepares his lanyard to hook up to the howitzer, and Staff Sgt. Eric Schoof checks the exact elevation using the gunner's quadrant.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Ghazni PRT checks on archaeological sites

Photos by AF 1st Lt. Katherine Roling, Ghazni PRT

GHAZNI PROVINCE - Ghazni PRT members stand amid Afghan graves that surround the 13th century Ali Lala Mausoleum, northeast of Ghazni city, Aug. 24. The team brought along Laura Tedesco, the cultural heritage program mgr, who was visiting from Kabul, to find out how she could support cultural heritage initiatives for the 2013 Center for Islamic Culture in Ghazni city.

Archaeologists Marek Lemiesz, with the Polish district support group, and Laura Tedesco, head down into Sultan Abdul Razzaq’s crypt, while an Afghan working on the mausoleum’s refurbishment holds the gate open, Aug. 24. Stories say Razzaq wanted the crypt to be a burial place for his family, but instead he was buried alone for unknown reasons.

A Polish soldier with the Ghazni PRT stops outside the 16th century Mausoleum of Abdul Razzaq, which is on the outskirts of Rawza village in Ghazni district. The building is being transformed into a museum with funding from the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Org.

Army Spc. Timothy Collins, a civil affairs member with the Ghazni PRT, walks down to the PRT’s next stop, the fortress ruins at the foot of the 3rd century Tepe Sardar Buddhist stupa-and-monastery complex.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Maj. Gen. Lyon visits FOB Mehtar Lam

Photos by AF Staff Sgt. Ave Pele, Laghman PRT

LAGHMAN PROVINCE -- AF Maj. Gen. Charles Lyon, Dir., Air Component Coordination Element, AF' Central Command, Kabul, addresses Airmen assigned to the Laghman PRT during a visit to FOB Mehtar Lam, Aug. 22.

AF Col. Lesa Toler, Cmdr, 755th Air Expeditionary Group, Bagram Airfield, addresses Airmen assigned to the Laghman PRT.

AF Maj. Gen. Charles Lyon (left), visits with AF Lt. Col. Christopher Possehl, Laghman PRT cmdr, during a tour of FOB Mehtar Lam.

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IRAQI STORIES:

DVIDS

632nd Ramps up for Convoy Operations

By 2nd Lt. Thomas McKay

COB ADDER — Since arriving here in May, soldiers with the 632nd Maintenance Co, 110th CSSB, 224th Sust Bde, 103rd ESC, have completed hundreds of maintenance work orders, and performed duties ranging from guarding entry control points, to staffing the dining facility. Now they're preparing for a new mission: convoy ops.

During the months of July and August, they've been brushing up on their convoy skills. As Op New Dawn begins, soldiers with the 632nd must be prepared to take on whatever is thrown their way, including the missions of units that are exiting theater.

“We’ve got to be prepared,” said 1st Lt. James Schafer, convoy ops officer-in-charge, and electronic equipment maintenance plt leader. “While we haven’t received any missions yet, we know we may have to perform any number of different duties.”

Soldiers from each of the company’s plts were brought together to form the convoy team. Twice a week, the team meets to train for convoy ops. Their training includes both classroom portions and hands-on time with the equipment--the Caiman series of MRAP vehicle in particular.

“Most of us have never worked with the MRAPs before,” said Pfc. Kelvin Sanchez, convoy team member with the 632nd, and a Dominican Republic native. “Getting to train on new equipment is always exciting, especially when I might get to use it on actual missions.”

Schafer is not taking any chances. He uses detailed computer presentations and carefully planned exercises, in order to maximize training time. The end result, he hopes, will be a team that's ready, willing and able to execute any missions that come their way. “We won’t really know if the training has paid off until we get out on the road, but I’m confident in our guys,” Schafer said.

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DVIDS

Subsistence Support for On-the-Move Convoys

By Sgt. Jorge Anaya

COB ADDER — Day or night, soldiers with the 40th Quartermaster Co, 110th CSSB, 224th Sust Bde, 103rd ESC, supply convoys responsible for delivering needed supplies to soldiers serving throughout Iraq. They operate a Class I subsistence point that supports convoys on their way through COB Adder.

The Class I point was built to provide direct support for convoy soldiers who are responsible for delivering commodities to other FOBs for theater sustainment and redeployment ops.

“We're located near their convoy staging lanes, so after the convoy personnel are finished refueling, they can stop by and take with them several bags of ice and water for their trip to the next destination,” said Sgt. John Ueki, a Class I yard NCO with the 40th QM Co., and an Aimeliik, Palau native.

“We also provide snacks such as muffins, potato chips and other misc. items,” said Ueki. “Whatever kinds of snacks or drinks we have, we issue it out. It’s all about supporting the ongoing mission.” Ueki said that his team knows that August is usually one of the hottest months in Iraq, which is why Soldiers at the Class I point will give convoy personnel all the help they can.

“We make it easier for our convoys to get subsistence support,” said Sgt. Monica Soto-Benavides, a Class I yard NCO with the 40th QM Co. “Before we started this Class I point, the convoy support was through Camp Cedar, which has been closed and returned to the GoI,” said Soto-Benavides. “Now, we’re here conducting full, 24-hour ops, assisting all those that may have been affected with Cedar being closed.”

Committed to meeting the current timeline of drawing down forces in Iraq to 50,000 troops by Sept. 1, soldiers with the 40th QM Co. are keeping stomachs full and thirsts quenched of those facing the task of moving materials and troops across Iraq, at a scale that hasn't been matched since WWII.

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DVIDS

Transition Marks Continuing Work

By Capt. Charles Barrett

August 28 - There is no doubt everyone is excited about the last combat troops leaving Iraq, but what about the troops still in Iraq? Sept. 1 marks the end of OIF and the transition to Op New Dawn. It's the symbolic date of a transition from combat ops to stability ops. I say "symbolic" because this change doesn't happen overnight. I wish it were that easy, but rhetoric aside, you have to account for all the moving pieces of this very fluid environment.

Within that bigger picture, the 3rd HBCT, 3rd ID was designated as an Advise and Assist Bde (AAB) prior to our deployment. Our entire training plan, from Hammer Focus to the National Training Center, was geared toward the brigade's new mission. We were augmented with transition teams, and trained at every level of command, and as sections to partner with our Iraqi counterparts.

During our deployment, we have trained on medical, intel, and public affairs ops, and the Rule of Law just to name a few. Others have partnered with the State Dept's PRTs to assist in building civil capacity. Those projects include drip irrigation for farmers, bee keeping grants, libraries for schools, and progress toward the preservation of historical sites. So, although the symbolic transition to stability ops will occur Sept. 1, the 3rd HBCT has been doing just that since they put boots on the ground, Oct. 2009.

It boils down to this: having no more combat troops in Iraq does not mean the troops left in Iraq are not combat capable. As outlined in the Security Agreement, U.S. Forces have the right to defend themselves if attacked. It's the mission and the training for that mission which have changed.

Looking at the big picture, it should be easy to see this change is made possible by the successes of U.S. forces and ISF. Despite attacks over the past year, we've witnessed the safe passage of millions of pilgrims traveling to the holy cities of Najaf and Karbala during religious holidays. For Arba'een, some reports estimated as many as 14 million pilgrims. This would not have been possible without the success of the ISF.

I believe success for the Iraqi people and for the U.S. forces who have served in Iraq, is a journey, not a destination, and we should not judge success or failure based on one event.

As outlined by the Security Agreement, U.S. Forces remain in Iraq to train, advise and assist the ISF to continue to increase their capability. We'll continue to support the PRTs in building civil capacity. Simply, we will honor the Security Agreement, and continue to build on our strategic partnership with Iraq.

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USF-I

Suspected JAM member killed, arrest a criminal associate

BAGHDAD - Iraqi Security Forces killed a suspected Jaysh al Mahdi (JAM)

member and arrested a criminal associate during a joint security operation

in southwest Baghdad Sunday.

In Rashid, ISF and U.S. advisors searched a building for a suspected Jaysh al Mahdi (JAM) member, who allegedly has close ties to JAM senior leadership, and is responsible for acquiring funds for the terrorist org.

During the operation, Aug. 29, the suspected JAM member fired a pistol at the ISF,

who returned fire killing him. Info and evidence gathered at the scene led Iraqi forces to identify and arrest a criminal assoc. of the warranted individual.

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Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous