ERQS Executes the 'Perfect' High Risk, Dynamic ANA Rescue
BAGRAM AIR FIELD - Rescuing injured CF in Afghanistan is something the 83rd ERQS is accustomed to doing, but flying over 12,000-foot mountains and refueling in air presented dynamic challenges, during a mission, Sept. 11, 2011.
Airmen from the 83 ERQS were pre-positioned at FOB Ghazni to support casualty evacuation ops, after an attack on CF in Wardak Prov., when a "REDCON" call came in that 2 wounded ANA personnel needed to be picked up. The location was high in the Kuh-e-Nilu Mountains. Due to the nature of the injuries and the time, distance and elevation factors, it was going to require some quick and efficient planning.
A pararescue airman from the 83rd ERS scrambles inside a HH-60G Pave Hawk helicopter at Bagram Air Field, after receiving an alert call.
Two HH-60G Pave Hawks had to fly over 12,000-foot mountains and perform an aerial refueling, like the one shown here. (Photo by Airman 1st Class Veronica Pierce)
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By Spc. Darryl Montgomery
KANDAHAR PROVINCE -- Maj. Gen. James Terry, outgoing cmdr. of RC-S, cased the 10th Mtn. Div. (LI) colors, and officially handed over command to Maj. Gen. James Huggins, Jr., 82nd AD, and new RC(S) cmdr.
Lt. Gen. Curtis Scaparrotti, cmdr., ISAF Joint Command, and reviewing officer for the ceremony, addressed the multi-national audience first, emphasizing the partnership of Afghanistan and CF, and the positive effect of their efforts. "Our forces, working shoulder to shoulder, 'shanah ba shanah,' Scaparrotti said, using the Afghan phrase, "train, fight, die and win along-side each other. Together, we're creating a better future for the people of Afghanistan," he said. Following Scaparrotti's remarks, Terry welcomed the audience and offered his parting thoughts. "Salam Alaikum," he said, "and peace be upon you," citing the traditional Muslim greeting. Referring to the overall purpose here, Terry said, "this is not about CF, this is about the Afghan SecFor increasingly taking the lead." Terry went on to say that "collectively ANSF have reason to be proud and stand tall. In the 4 provs. of Kandahar, Uruzgan, Zabul, and Daykundi, they have "thwarted hundreds of attacks, and beaten back a weakening, but still very violent enemy. An increase in economic activity in the RC-(S) region," Terry said, "is evidence of stability and progress, that melons and pomegranates have been shipped through Kandahar Airfield to global markets." Once Terry's remarks were complete, Huggins walked up to the platform and spoke. "Our task will be to continue to build on the progress of our ANSF and coalition partners, that the Afghans can take full control of their future in the lead, in their country," Huggins said. "Afghans will achieve sustainable economic development, which will result in the peaceful, prosperous and independent future of their country," he said. Huggins also said that 2 key factors for success over the next year will be working to develop governance and security, and building local inclusive govts, "an area where I've already seen much progress. It's the Afghan people, themselves," Huggins continued, "who will achieve the form of govt that is accountable to the people, a govt they deserve."Army Lt. Gen. Curtis Scaparrotti speaks to the incoming and outgoing leadership of RC-South.
CAMP LEATHERNECK -- The PSD course taught the 35 members of the Afghan Uniformed and Border Police, how to provide personal security for high profile officials, similar to the role U.S. Secret Service details provide for American govt officials. “Assassinations of political and military leaders are common in Afghanistan, which deteriorates the security for Helmand prov.,” said Robert Josleyn. "The police in attendance worked long, hard hours, but remained vigilant and enthusiastic throughout the course, and the instructors were impressed throughout the training process," said Josleyn.
“Considering how quick the course was, the students really did pick up all the lessons we taught very fast,” said 1st Lt. Thomas Malone, the JSAS training team’s leader, and a Md. native. “Especially with the tactical driving session, many of the students had never driven before, but now they can operate a vehicle in a variety of tactical situations.”
Other instructors were impressed by the level of enthusiasm displayed by the students. “The students always enjoy weapons training,” said 2nd Lt. Abdul Wahab, a PSD instructor from the Afghan Interior Ministry. “Getting hands-on with the various weapons and tactics is always popular amongst the soldiers. It builds their confidence and helps them become more capable as personal security police officers.”“The Joint Sustainment Academy SW (JSAS) instructors want Afghanistan to become a prosperous nation,” added Terry Walker, the training advisor for JSAS, explaining the relevance of the course. “In order for this to happen, Afghan leaders have to be able to safely interact with the public to know their concerns. The students of this course are critical for this, because they provide the security that allows this process to take place. This course and its instructors are constantly adapting to meet emerging requirements that the ANSF need to save lives and defend their leaders.”JSAS dir. Maj. Andrew Martinez congratulates a student of the PSDl course.
Lt. Col. Obedullah, the training & education officer for the 707th AUP out of Lashkar Gah, Helmand prov., addresses students.
ANSF students at the PSD class await their diplomas.
A graduate of the PSDl course proudly displays his certificate.
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DVIDS
ISAF Joint Command - Afghanistan
PAKTIYA PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor captured the senior Haqqani network leader in Afghanistan, during a security op in Jani Khel district, Sept. 27. SecFor detained Haji Mali Khan, uncle of Siraj and Badruddin Haqqani. He was one of the highest ranking members of the Haqqani network, and a revered elder of the Haqqani clan.He reportedly worked directly under Siraj Haqqani, managed bases, and had oversight of ops in both Afghanistan and Pakistan. Mali Khan moved forces from Pakistan to Afghanistan to conduct terrorist activity. Jalaluddin Haqqani consistently placed Mali Khan in positions of high importance.Mali Khan served as an emissary between the late Baitullah Mahsud, and senior leaders within the Haqqani leadership. Before he was killed last year, Mahsud was the Tehrik Taliban Pakistan top leader who provided foreign fighters, including Uzbeks, to the Taliban and Haqqani networks. He led 20,000 pro-Taliban militants, and organized attacks against Pakistani and Afghan targets. Mahsud was blamed for the Dec. 2007 assassination of former Pakistan Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto.In the past year, Haji Mali Khan established a militant camp in Mangal tribal lands in Paktiya prov., coordinated the transfer of money for insurgents ops, and facilitated the acquisition of supplies. Although he was heavily armed during the op that led to his capture, Mali Khan submitted to the SecFor without incident or resistance. Multiple additional insurgents were detained during the security op, to include Mali Khan’s deputy and body guard. The Haqqani network and its safe havens remain a top priority for Afghan and CF. SecFor have conducted more than 500 ops so far in 2011, in an effort to disrupt the Haqqani network leadership, resulting in the death of 20 network facilitators, and the capture of nearly 300 insurgent leaders and 1,300 suspected Haqqani insurgents.-30-
South
KANDAHAR PROVINCE -- In Panjwa’i district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained a Taliban leader and a suspected insurgent during a security op. The leader prepares homemade explosives for attacks in Kandahar City. He is responsible for conducting multiple roadside bomb attacks, acquiring funds and ammo for other insurgent leaders, and facilitating attacks targeting Afghan forces. The SecFor also seized 10-lbs (4.5 kg) of heroin. ----- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained a suspected insurgent during an op in search of a Taliban facilitator in Panjwa’i district. The facilitator coordinates with other Taliban leaders to plan attacks using homemade explosives throughout the region. EastWARDAK PROVINCE — In Maidan Shahr district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor killed multiple insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban facilitator. The facilitator leads and participates in attacks against Afghan forces.
The SecFor was fired upon by several armed individuals barricaded inside a building. Responding to the immediate threat, the SecFor returned fire, killing the insurgents.
BAGHDAD – “We welcome a significant milestone in our Iraq campaign by activating the OSC-I,” said Gen. Lloyd Austin III, reviewing officer of the ceremony. “As we continue to honor the security agreement by drawing down our SecFor, OSC-I will become the core of our enduring military-to-military relationship with Iraq over the years to come,” he added.
“Today’s establishment of the OSC-I and the transfer of the NATO Training Mission (NTM), marks a significant transition and the progress of our mission in Iraq, as well as the commitment of the U.S. and the NATO partner countries, for a strategic and enduring relationship with the GoI and its people,” said Caslen. After the passing of the NTM-I colors, Austin spoke highly of Caslen, and addressed the challenges ahead. “Lt. Gen. Caslen’s proven talents as a leader, trainer and educator make him extremely well suited for this important assignment,” said Austin. “The task ahead will be challenging, but I know that you're more than capable,” said Austin to Caslen. “I can't think of a better person to lead this org. into the next phase of our military leadership with Iraq. You're the right person at the right place, at the right time,” he added. Caslen takes command with multiple responsibilities as the cmdr. of the NTM-I, USF-I deputy comm. gen. (advising and training) and the chief of OSC-I, to continue the training and advising mission, as U.S. Forces – Iraq withdraw from Iraq by the end of this year. “I am honored to serve as cmdr. of the NATO Mission, as we orchestrate training and professional military education for Iraq’s leaders and its SecFor,” said Caslen. As the ceremony drew to a close, Caslen highlighted the role of NTM-I and OSC-I, and their importance to the development of Iraq and the Middle East. “Iraq’s partnership with NATO is significant. This relationship not only provides Iraq with superb trainers and educators, but it also provides legitimacy among the 28 NATO nations in a unique status within the Middle East region, as a partner in the international community of nations,” said Caslen. “It's clear that a stable, secure and self-ran Iraq is not only important for Iraq, but for the entire region,” Caslen continued. “I recognize the importance of both NTM-I and OSC-I to assist Iraq in developing the necessary defense capabilities to secure this great nation.” The ceremony also marked the departure of Ferriter, who completed his 3rd combat tour in Iraq, to include his 1st 2 tours as a Deputy Comm. Gen. (Ops), Multi-National Corps - Iraq, and the most recent one as the Deputy Comm. Gen. (Advising & Training). The most recent success is the GoI’s purchase of F-16 multi-role fighter aircrafts, along with the associated training, maintenance and sustainment packages, which represents a significant advancement for the IqAF and the enduring relationship between the U.S. and Iraqi govts. “Lt. Gen. Ferriter and his team have flawlessly managed one of the most robust foreign military sales programs in the world,” said Austin. “From M1A1 tanks to patrol boats and transport aircrafts, they delivered the total package of instruction maintenance and support necessary for the ISF.” “The remarkable accomplishments of your team under your inspired leadership have strengthened relationships with our Iraqi, NATO, and U.S. Embassy partners, and have set the conditions for our continued professionalization of the ISF,” said Austin.Lt. Gen. Robert Caslen Jr. (left) assumed command of the NATO Training Mission-Iraq from Lt. Gen. Michael Ferriter (right).
Lt. Gen. Robert Caslen Jr. (center) assumed command of the NATO Training Mission-Iraq from Lt. Gen. Michael Ferriter (right), in a change of command ceremony led by General Lloyd Austin III (left).
Iraqi Forensic Police Officers Learn Skills to Solve Cases, Oct. 2, 2011.
BAGHDAD – "It’s time to pack up the jars of pickled infant animals, cases of insect specimen, and miniature models," said Gil Grissom. A new forensics team is in town. Insert a witty one-liner, immediately follow it with a video montage of some crime scene investigating, add some lyrics from a Who song, and CBS has its newest installment of its long-running law enforcement program - CSI: Baghdad.
All right, so an Iraq-themed crime scene drama may not be hitting the prime-time television market anytime soon. However, the progress of Iraqi forensic police officers learning evidence testing techniques and procedures is anything, but a scripted piece of fiction. Officers with Iraq’s Federal Police have been working with International Narcotic and Law Enforcement contractors in a series of Tool Marking and Firearms, Chemical, and DNA forensics classes, at the Baghdad Police College, throughout the month of Sept. The courses are designed to create qualified individuals to operate self-sustaining forensics labs around the country.To help create the best learning environment, forensic law enforcement veterans, with several years of specialized lab experience in their respective field, teach each course. While their reasons for coming to Iraq are personal, the expectations of the end-state are unanimous: teach forensic scientists and create a lab which allows for adequate and fair processing of evidence, to prove guilt or innocence in a court of law.
"This country used to be a place where suspects would get beaten until they confessed to a crime," said Chris Binion, a chemical forensics teacher, "but now evidence, judges, and rule of law dominate the judicial system. It’s not perfect yet, but it’s getting better,” Binion said, a native of Ky.
"These courses are helping improve the system, because unlike what the television program may portray, crime scene scientists are not jacks-of-all-trades, but rather extremely knowledgeable subject matter experts in their particular field," said Shane Gaghan, a firearms and tool marks instructor.
Students of the Chemistry Forensics course learn about chemical compositions, and how knowing what something is made of can determine where it came from, and who made it. Prominent cases in Iraq involve IEDs, suicide bombers, and small arms fire attacks. The ability to identify chemical compositions of the various explosive components used in these attacks, can help determine where the materials were manufactured, and could potentially provide evidence for a suspect’s conviction. Much like the unique composition of chemicals used to make explosives, the tools used to make them, and the weapons used in small arms fire attacks, make unique striation marks on the devices, bullets and shells, respectively.Students of the Firearms and Tool Marking Forensics course learn how to use scientific instruments to determine if bullets and shells collected at a crime scene, or marks on the fragments of an explosive device, match the weapon or tools owned by a suspect. “Firearms and tool marks is one of the oldest forensic techniques,” said Gaghan, a retired 10-year Philadelphia police veteran. “People here have always been doing this. There was just a need to update technology and skill sets.” "Students of the DNA Forensic Course learn how to recover this microscopic material from bodily fluids, such as blood, saliva, and semen, left behind at crime scenes," said Page Bowlus, a DNA forensics instructor. "The material is then multiplied, using a chemical process, into a quantifiable amount for a variety of tests to be run." Binion, Gaghan, Bowlus, and the rest of their team agree that the labs they’ve helped establish here technologically, rival any lab found in the U.S. However, one challenge the team and students face is Baghdad’s electrical infrastructure, which is unable to consistently handle the intense power requirements of the equipment. “The infrastructure has been an issue to support the lab equipment,” said Dale Price, a DNA Forensic instructor. “It’s not easy work; it’s a challenge. But, it’s a reward to see all the progress we've made.” This setback doesn’t stop the student’s overwhelming desire to learn, and the teachers’ ability to adapt to the situation, as the city’s workers continue to build and increase its infrastructure capabilities. “The people we teach have such a desire to learn,” said Bowlus, a Miss. native. This desire to learn, in conjunction with the teachers’ expertise, creates a recipe for the long-term success of Iraq’s law enforcement and crime scene investigation, as a self-sustaining force to serve and protect the people of their country.
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