TROOP SCOOP

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update

Dear Interested Reader, and many friends,
Due to an illness in our family, I can no longer put the stories together for you, but will give you all the sites I go to.  It's my hope that you'll continue to stay informed, as I'll continue to do so too. Thank you for your support of our troops, by reading their stories.
Joanna

To view today's stories, please click on these sources:

DVIDS-Afghanistan:   http://www.dvidshub.net/news/afghanistan

DVIDS-IRAQ:   http://www.dvidshub.net/news/iraq

ISAF-AFGHANISTAN:   http://www.isaf.nato.int/

RC-EAST:  http://www.rc-east.com/en/home-mainmenu-52.html

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/11-18-11

Dear Interested Reader,
New girls in town:  FET resets.  Michigan native makes name for himself in Marine Corps.  Buffalo Marine lives for challange, thrives at Camp Leatherneck.  Afghan, U.S., French discuss force shifts.  ISAF Joint Command operational update, Nov. 16, 2011.
Iraq:  We leave when you leave.
Joanna
____________________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

DVIDS

New girls in Town: FET resets

Story and photos by Cpl. Katherine Keleher



Cpl. Brandy Bates, assigned to Female Engagement Team (FET) 11 in Marjah district, Helmand province, and a native of Mich., listens to other Marines with FET, talk about their experiences during deployment, Nov. 13.

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Helmand province – A surge of over 40 Marines with the FET came to Camp Leatherneck, Nov. 11-15, where they were able to kick up their boots and talk about their experiences in Afghanistan, since they began their deployment.

The Marines assigned to the team travel to Camp Leatherneck every 45 days for reset training, before going back to their battalions. In their reset training classes, the Marines covered topics such as Rules of Engagement, escalation of force, and basic lessons learned on relationship building with the local Afghan populace.

“It gives us an opportunity to re-group and re-organize our missions,” said Sgt. Jessica Lugo, the FET 6 team leader in Sangin district, who grew up in Los Angeles. “A lot of things can happen in 45 days. When we come back here we can do those lessons learned, recap, learn anything and revise anything that we might need to execute later on in the future.”

The mission of FET is to reach out to and interact with Afghan women and their children. Until FET was established, women and children were not heard from because of cultural restrictions. Afghan women past the age of puberty are not permitted to talk to men.

Since FET, made up of nearly 2 dozen 2 to 3-member female teams of Marines and Sailors serving as hospitalwomen, were stood up nearly 2 years ago, they've  been able to build relationships with Afghan women within their communities.

A main priority of the FET team members during reset training is to talk among one another about lessons learned, and come up with new ideas on how to approach women, different ways to get word out in the villages about upcoming meetings, or even different ways to possibly get local Afghans to understand the importance of sending their children to school.

"It's nice to hear about the progress being made in other districts such as Marjah, and what they're doing, so that when it comes time when teams such as the ones in Sangin are ready to do something new, they already have an idea about what should and should not work," emphasized Lugo, who is an MP by trade.

"Sangin district, where Marines recently executed Op Eastern Storm, is still considered to be a major insurgent threshold, and many locals are still too fearful to leave their compounds," Lugo explained, "making it exceedingly difficult for coalition troops to work toward counterinsurgency (COIN)."

“I can tell you that 90% of the women we talk to have never seen FET,” she said. In response, FET teams in Sangin district spend as much time as possible in public, meeting as many of the local women as possible. Team members agree that success can be measured in small and large ways.

“We did a bicycle handout with the students that participated in our old COP for good attendance in school,” said Cpl. Brandy Bates. “We handed out about 40 different bicycles."

“We also discovered a girls' school with about 110 girls ranging from ages 6 to 15, which was really nice. We've some hygiene classes we’ve given to the ANA, as well as some of the local children,” said Bates.

Armed with lessons learned during reset training, and the successes of previous FETs, current team members said that they're looking forward to accomplishing their missions and goals within the communities of Helmand prov., in the upcoming months.



Sgt. Jessica Lugo listens to other Marines with FET talk about their experiences during deployment, Nov. 13.

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DVIDS

Michigan Native Makes Name for Himself in Marine Corps

Story and photos by Sgt. Earnest Barnes



Cpl. Matthew Troutman, a Mich. native, and the asst. ops chief for HQ Bn (Fwd), 2nd Marine Div (Fwd), points out a shooter’s shot group during a recent rifle range. Troutman coordinates rifle ranges and other training events, for units that belong to 2nd Marine Div (Fwd) that are just arriving to Afghanistan.

CAMP LEATHERNECK – Cpl. Matthew Troutman knew exactly what he wanted when he left the small town he hails from, and it was something as simple as a name. “I couldn’t walk down the street without people saying, 'you’re a Troutman, aren’t you?'  He added, “I needed to get away and make a name for myself instead of being known for my dad’s name.”

Troutman, who is cordially known as “Fish” to his co-workers, decided he wanted to join the military, which was not uncommon for his family. Troutman took his family and friends off guard, when he told them he was joining the Marine Corps.

“I graduated high school at 118-lbs. No one thought I could do it. I did it to prove people wrong,” said Troutman. “I knew I would be a stereotypical college kid – I would have partied and dropped out. I knew that the Marines would straighten me out, and I knew it would be the toughest, so I figured go big or go home!”

Troutman joined the Marine Corps in July 2006 as a data tech, fixing broken electronics like computers, power supplies, and printers. He came to Afghanistan in May 2011 not as a data tech, but as a member of the 2nd Marine Div (Fwd) comm. gen.’s Personal Security Detachment (PSD). He was recently re-assigned to HB as the asst. ops chief.

Staff Sgt. Dorota Gregory, an Ill. native, is the training and ops chief, and works with Troutman in the HQ Ops Section. “I assist the ops officer with setting up training, working on orders, tracking those going home, and running the weapons range as the officer-in-charge or range safety officer,” said Gregory. “Troutman helps me run the ranges by acting as the firing line NCO, and calling all commands for the shooters. He also sets up the training for Reception, Staging, Onward Movement and Integration training briefs.”

Troutman, who starts his day off with a cup of coffee, said he likes his job because, “no two days are ever the same; the only constant thing out here is that cup of coffee.” Working with different units has given Troutman a fresh perspective on how he views the Marine Corps. He said each unit he works with operates slightly different, and he applies his observations to his life as a Marine.

“I look at it as more tools in the toolbox for me. It makes me a well-rounded Marine,” said Troutman. “The more experiences you can go through in the Marine Corps, just helps better you as a person, thus making you a better Marine.”

Troutman said he learns something everyday from this deployment – his 2nd in a combat area, but he's happy to reel in his last few months to get back to his family. He said going to Iraq in 2008 was not a big deal for him, because he didn’t have a family then, but this is his first deployment being married, so this is a new concept for him. His wife, however, grew up in a military family, so she has been through deployments with loved ones before.

Troutman said missing birthdays, his wedding anniversary, and holidays is not the hard part of being separated from his family. He recently went home for two weeks of R & R leave, arriving two days before his son was born. “It was hard coming back after holding my son for the first time, and just knowing I'm going to miss the first 5 to 6 months of his life,” said Troutman.

Troutman said he has a little more than 3 months left, and looks forward to getting back to the few names he’s made for himself:  Marine … Husband … Daddy.



Cpl. Matthew Troutman shouts a command to Marines on the firing line, during a recent rifle range.



Cpl. Troutman (left), assigns a target number to a Marine attending a recent rifle range.

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DVIDS

Buffalo Marine Lives for Challenge, Thrives at Camp Leatherneck

Story and photo by Cpl. Tommy Bellegarde



LCpl. Dingyi Duan of N.Y., a high-mobility artillery rocket system(HMARS)  crewman with Romeo Btry, 5th Bn, 11th Marine Regt, emigrated from Zibo, China to the U.S., at age 17. The 22-year-old, currently serving on his first combat deployment, had some difficulty adjusting to his new life in America when he first arrived. He enlisted in the Marine Corps and overcame a language barrier, during recruit training to become a U.S. Marine.

CAMP LEATHERNECK – Getting through Marine Corps recruit training is a difficult, but a necessary rite of passage for young adults, who aspire to become U.S. Marines. It's mentally and physically exhausting, and drill instructors hover constantly to correct mistakes instantly. Some recruits stand out and become leaders, while others choose to blend in. No matter what their strategy, recruits must follow a drill instructor’s orders to the letter.
The vast majority of recruits are American citizens and native speakers of English. They understand nuances in body language and behavior, that foreigners and others unfamiliar with American culture do not. Recruits who have English as a second language have an added challenge when enlisting in the Marine Corps.

LCpl. Dingyi Duan moved to N.Y. at age 17 to live with his mother and sisters. This was a period of adjustment for Duan. He spoke very little English, didn’t know many people in N.Y., and was largely unfamiliar with American way of life. His mother, knowing her son’s competitive personality, told him about his sister’s success in school, and how quickly she was learning the English language. Not to be outdone, Duan focused on education in an effort to improve himself.

He attended State University of New York at Geneseo, focusing primarily on schoolwork and learning English. Duane had been a student in China, where he had very little free time, and after 3 years of college, he wanted to take a break from school and try something new. He stopped by the Marine Corps recruiting station outside of the university one day, just to see what the Marine Corps was all about.

“I’d been in school my whole life, so I decided to do something different,” said Duan. “I stepped in and the recruiter was a really nice person. He asked me if I wanted to enlist.”

“I came back to the recruiter’s office after doing research online, trying to figure out who Marines are, what they do,” said Duan. “Then I decided, ‘okay, I’m going to be a Marine.”

When he stepped onto the yellow footprints of Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C., in October 2009, he not only had to overcome the physical and mental challenges of recruit training, he had to do it with English as a second language.

Duan occasionally had a difficult time understanding orders from his drill instructors, but his English improved at a rapid rate, a product of his ability to adapt and overcome. The 22-year-old Duan said, “No matter what the drill instructors told me, all I could say was ‘aye, sir; yes, sir.’”

“The good thing was that the recruits and my drill instructors didn’t really mess with me too much,” said Duan. “They helped push me through the whole 3 months of recruit training, and helped me become a Marine. So, I really appreciate my drill instructors and fellow recruits.”

Two years have passed since Duan stepped onto the yellow footprints, and Duan has not yet met a challenge too difficult to overcome. Duan’s leadership has taken notice of his rapid growth as a Marine, and has been impressed with Duan’s determination, resiliency, and insatiable hunger for knowledge.

“His ability to adapt and overcome is very strong due to obvious reasons, coming from halfway across the world and into the Marine Corps,” said Calif. native, Sgt. Louis Cardin, an asst. section chief in Romeo Btry. “He knows himself and is always seeking self-improvement.”

“I came all the way from China for college in America, and then from college I went to the Marine Corps,” said Duan. “From the Marine Corps, I made it all the way through recruit training, Marine combat training, military occupational specialty school, made it to the operational Marine forces, and then made it to my deployment here out in Afghanistan – it’s really dramatic.”

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Afghan, US, French discuss force shifts

Story and photos by Army Sgt. Matthew Thompson
 


Brig. Gen. James Richardson (right), deputy cmdr., Regional Command-East, listens to force realignment discussions with French and Afghan partners, at FOB Gamberi, Nov. 13.

LAGHMAN PROVINCE – “We have to adapt to the situation,” said Brig. Gen. James Richardson. “The mission has not changed, and what we're doing at this time is discussing how we adapt to the changing environment. We all have a common objective. With open and transparent dialogue we will accomplish our objectives much faster."

This was the first meeting between French Army Brig. Gen. Jean-Pierre Pallasset, TF Lafayette cmdr., and ANA Maj. Gen. Abdullah, 201st Corps ANA cmdr., since Pallasset took command, Oct. 15.

French troops of TF Lafayette, located in Kapisa prov., mentor ANA Soldiers of the 3rd Bde, 201st ANA Corps, and officers of the 202nd AUP. With the transition of French troops, having begun in Oct., of this year, and U.S. forces slated for a 2014 withdraw from Afghanistan, ANA Maj. Gen. Abdullah agreed that the Afghan and ISAF need to continue working shoulder-to-shoulder to achieve their goals.

“ANSF and ISAF truly are a very good team,” said Abdullah. “I promise you that the close relationship that we have had with TF Lafayette will continue.” The discussion focused on the reorganization of the French partnership in the area, with the Liaison Support Team, Quick Reaction Forces, and Mobile Training Teams.

“TF Lafayette is working in close cooperation with the ANSF in protecting Kabul,” Pallasset said. “We'll not leave Afghanistan behind.”

“The French have always been there to support ANSF, whether it be the police or the army,” said Richardson. “They've made tremendous progress with 3rd Bde.  We must make sure that continues. The only way we can reach our end state is to do it collectively.”



French Army Brig. Gen. Jean-Pierre Pallasset, explains his changing role and mission, to ANSF leaders, during a briefing at FOB Gamberi, Nov. 13.



French Army Brig. Gen. Jean-Pierre Pallasset (center), praises his ANA partner, Brig. Gen. Emam Nazar (left), cmdr., 3rd Bde, 201st ANA Corps, to ANA Maj. Gen. Abdullah, 201st ANA Corps cmdr., after a briefing.

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DVIDS

ISAF Joint Command Operational Update,  Nov. 16, 2011

By ISAF Joint Command

South

HELMAND PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor discovered a field of marijuana during a routine patrol in Reg-e Khan Neshin district, yesterday. The force conducted a controlled burn of the field, destroying an estimated 500-lbs (227 kgs) of illegal drugs.

----- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple insurgents and confiscated an IED, while on patrol in Marjah district, yesterday. The incident began when the insurgents engaged the combined force with small arms fire, and then fled the area for a nearby compound.

KANDAHAR PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and coalition SECFOR captured a Taliban facilitator in Daman district, yesterday. The facilitator conducted spectacular attacks and coordinated with insurgent leaders to plan roadside bomb and suicide attacks. Two additional suspected insurgents were detained.

----- In Arghandab district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor discovered a weapons cache during an op, yesterday. The cache consisted of 32 grenades and various IED components.

ZABUL PROVINCE -- In Qalat district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained a suspected insurgent, during an op in search of a Taliban leader, yesterday. The leader coordinates the placement of roadside bombs, and plans attacks throughout Qalat district.

East

KHOST PROVINCE -- A Haqqani network facilitator was captured by a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor in Sabari district, yesterday. The senior network facilitator distributed rockets, firearms, and homemade explosives, and planned attacks against Afghan forces. Two additional suspected insurgents were detained.

BAMYAN PROVINCE -- In Kahmard district, a weapons cache was turned into CF yesterday. The cache consisted of 39 rockets of varying sizes, 44 canisters of propellant, and 3 grenades.

LOGAR PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained 2 suspected insurgents, during an op to disrupt a Taliban cell in Pul-e ‘Alam district,  yesterday. The insurgent cell is responsible for a recent direct fire attack in the area.

PAKTIYA PROVINCE -- In Zurmat district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained several suspected insurgents during an op in search of a Taliban leader, yesterday. The leader constructs and stores roadside bombs and weapons, and coordinates roadside bomb attacks.

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IRAQI STORY:

DVIDS

We Leave When You Leave

Story by Pvt. Andrew Slovensky

CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE ADDER -- When U.S. troops came to Iraq in 2003, the Army and AF Exchange Services (AAFES) were not far behind. Tents, trailers, prefabricated buildings, and standing structures became the homes of new, remote AAFES outlets.

The Exchange, with facilities in more than 30 countries, has long been the provider of home comforts and necessities to service members. Toiletries, barbers, beauty shops, franchised restaurants, and energy drinks are just some of the products and services AAFES brought to Iraq to support OIF and OND. Much of the proceeds go to fund Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) programs provided to service members.

Now, as service members redeploy from Iraq in this historic drawdown, the AAFES facilities are following suite, while still carrying out their mission. “We’re here for the Soldiers, and we’ll go that extra step to have what they need to help them fulfill their mission,” said Debbie Gomez, AAFES mgr., for COB Adder.

"While service members continue to come to COB Adder from other bases in Iraq, the shelves at the post exchange will be restocked for as long as possible," said Gomez. “We have other bases that are assisting us in the drawdown, to make sure that we're fully stocked.”

From tents and trailers, to larger and larger buildings, and back again, the presence of the Exchange has evolved over the course of ops in Iraq. Even POGs, the cardboard circles redeemable at AAFES services in place of metal coins have become scarce. Holding true to their motto, “We go where you go,” AAFES facilities are making an exit along with the troops departing Iraq.

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Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/11-17-11

Dear Interested Reader,
Nawa Victory Walk:  Day 3.  Op. Cat in the Hat at Bagram Air Field.  Forces clear insurgents from Logar.  Training the new guys in Paktika prov.  ISAF Joint Command operational update, Nov. 15, 2011.
Iraq:  Honoring a modern day veteran at COS Echo.
Joanna
______________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

DVIDS

Nawa Victory Walk: Day 3

Story and photos by Cpl. Jeff Drew



Ark. native Sgt. Jeremy Cooney, a ground element cmdr. during foot patrols, prepares to lead his Marines on patrol outside the town of Khalaj.  Cooney, with 1st Bn, 9th Marine Regt, was responsible for all dismounted Marines during the Nawa Victory Walk, a patrol across the district with ANA soldiers, to instill confidence in ANSF.

Editor’s note: This is the 3rd installment in a 4-part series chronicling a trek across Nawa district called the Nawa Victory Walk, a 4-day, 30-mile patrol by U.S. Marines and ANA soldiers.

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Helmand province – The third day of the Nawa Victory Walk began early. Marines woke as the sun rose, then filled up on energy bars for breakfast. They checked their equipment, refilled water containers, met up with their ANA counterparts, and headed for the front gate.  

The 3rd day of the 4-day, 30-mile patrol was in full swing. The bn cmdr. of 1/9, Wash. native Lt. Col. Tyler Zagurski, joined Afghan Lt. Col. Gul Ahmad, the comm. officer, to continue their trek, meeting with local elders and Afghan residents along the way, to promote confidence in ANSF.

The Marines’ aching shoulders and sore feet seemed to be a thing of the past, as they had grown accustomed to the weight and pace of the movement, during the previous days of patrolling. Morale was high as the group set out the 3rd day, marked by a shorter distance of 8 kms.

“I think we're setting out to do what we intended,” said Cooney. “The biggest part of this was being able to go to the different patrol bases, and let the Afghan soldiers see that their cmdrs. are out here with them. The ANA and the Marines are walking the streets and keeping it safe.  I think, so far, this has been a success,” said Cooney.

As the ground element cmdr., Cooney is in charge of all Marines walking in the patrol, taking charge of all security aspects, and ensuring coverage in all directions. His southern drawl matched with the surrounding sea of cornfields and farms, highlighted his southern upbringing.  He spoke of his family as the soldiers and Marines walked down the dirt roads. He described his five children and how he couldn’t wait to finish the mission and go back to the United States so he could go fishing and hunting and ride horses with them.

Nawa’s security stands on the cusp of transition to Afghan control, and as the Marines patrolled to the various patrol bases and outposts, Cooney spoke of some of the district’s progress.

“The people were pretty supportive of us when we got here, but I think we’ve been able to build on that relationship a lot,” said the 31-year-old Cooney. “There are many more patrol bases being run by ANA than when we got here; that, in itself, is a big accomplishment. (Afghans) are starting to take care of security and do things themselves.”

“You reach a point in a place like Nawa where continued growth and progress is impossible until you take a step back and encourage your partners to fill the gap,” said Zagurski.
“We won’t let them fail; we haven’t let them fail. We’ve watched them very carefully, and they have been very successful.”

The ANA soldiers and Marines patrolled to Patrol Bases Luy Jolah, Jangeali, and Toor Ghar. At each stop Afghan security forces welcomed them, offering food and chai tea. From Toor Ghar the Marines jumped into vehicles and moved to Patrol Base Kharaman, an abandoned mansion turned into an outpost where they would sleep for the evening. With one day left on the scheduled patrol, the service members were excited. They tucked themselves into sleeping bags to fend off the dropping temperatures and fell asleep under the stars.

“I couldn’t be prouder of my men,” said Cooney. “They keep pushing on without complaint – some have blisters, or their shoulders ache, but they don’t show it.”



Nevada native Petty Officer 3rd Class Mathew Petersen, a corpsman, provides security outside of PB Jaker. Petersen provided an integral part in the patrol, checking on the physical condition and hydration of each service member, as they patrolled through the district during the 4-day trek.



La. native Lance Cpl. Justin Wilson, an infantryman, relaxes for a moment before leaving on a recent patrol.



Ark. native Sgt. Jeremy Cooney, a ground element cmdr., during foot patrols, cleans his protective eyewear before a morning patrol. During the day’s patrol Cooney explained how the farms and cornfields along the way reminded him of home.

Marines with 1st Battalion,9th Marine Regiment, clean their vehicles after arriving at Patrol Base Kharaman. The abandoned mansion turned into an outpost provided Marines a place to lay their heads as they finished the third day of the Nawa Victory Walk, a patrol across the district to promote confidence in Afghan security forces.

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DVIDS

Operation Cat in the Hat

Story and photos by Capt. Karena Hill

Members of the 228th TTSB, volunteer at the newly opened Operation Cat in the Hat School located at Bagram Air Field. The school opened in Oct., and currently serves students in the surrounding local community.

BAGRAM AIR FIELD -- School-aged children in the community surrounding Bagram Air Field are taught basic English skills on the base.  Students are separated by gender into classes that are taught twice weekly for two hours a day. Students are taught basic conversational English, and how to recognize and recite the alphabet, numbers and animals.



Two young girls trying their best to write in English.



A young girl is focused on her penmanship.

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RC-East Bagram Media Center

Combined Forces Clear Insurgents from Logar

By Army Spc. William Begley

A large weapons cache is destroyed.

LOGAR — Historically, Logar prov. has been a Taliban stronghold. Almost all Afghan and Coalition Soldiers who have entered the prov. in the past, have come under attack. Looking to change this, Soldiers of Co B, 1st Bn, 2nd Inf Regt, TF Black Scarves, assisted ANSF during a 5-day mission in support of Op Shamshir Oct. 17 - 21. The goal, according to Capt. Michael Roesler, of Minn., Co. B cmdr., was to disrupt insurgent activity, facilitate Afghan governmental control, as well as expand ANSF influence.

Landing in the middle of the night just outside the village of Kut Kay, the combined forces took their first enemy contact.
“It was a pop shot with an AK-47 assault rifle or a PK machine gun,” said 1st Lt. Laurent Lundy, of Mass.  After the enemy quickly broke contact, the troops went ahead and cleared the location, finding a large weapons cache.

“We found approx 13 RPGs, 23 detonators, 3 RPG boosters, several feet of detonator cord, and a few sticks of TNT,” said Lundy.  “It was the biggest one we've found so far, since we've come to Logar prov.. It felt pretty good; the guys were excited and you could see it in their eyes.”

The 2nd day began early with the goal of clearing the area inside the Maani bazaar. Once again, the unit came under enemy fire. While a team was in the bazaar, an RPG struck a hillside near an overwatch team; landing just 5 meters from the element.

“Everybody was stunned right at first, so we hopped over our makeshift fighting position, and took cover down the other side of the hill,” said Spc. Benjamin Brock, from Iowa, a sniper with HQ plt. “We got everybody together and figured out everybody was all right; then we went back up and tried to get eyes on whoever shot the RPG.” The Soldiers returned fire, later intercepting insurgent radio chatter, saying they killed an insurgent and injured another.

Speaking with locals in the bazaar, ANA Capt. Namutllah, cmdr., appealed for peace. “Let us seize the opportunity to end the destructive influence of the Taliban, and to embrace the opportunity that the GoA is providing for them,” he said. “It's up to you. It's your responsibility to make this positive change for the future.”

Day 3 began establishing an outpost above the village of Omarkhel.  After occupying a hilltop, Black Scarves Soldiers took contact early that morning from the west, and a ridgeline to the NE that overlooked the entire area. What ensued during the fire fight was a unique display of firepower that they could deliver.

With a .50-caliber machine gun mounted on a 6-wheeled vehicle, and a grenade launcher mounted on another, the ANA and Black Scarf Soldiers returned fire. Forcing the fight, they moved quickly to claim the ground the firing had come from. While there were no bodies recovered, insurgent radio chatter reported they killed 2 Taliban and wounded another.

With memories of the previous day’s fight still fresh, the Soldiers headed out early to a small village called Azurkhel. With the high ground well covered, the forces moved into quite a different mood than the day before. “Kids, the elders, and the rest of the villagers came out to greet us,” said Lundy. “We were able to maneuver easily about in the village, which is typically not the way it goes.”

With the villagers’ cooperation, the clearing op began and ended in a relatively short period of time. “The ANA were actually sitting and breaking bread with the locals, which is a good sign,” said Lundy. “Nonetheless, the threat remains the same. We did have chatter that day saying that they're going to try to shoot down a helicopter, and continue attacking CF.”

Lundy’s words proved ominous and, once again, they took contact. “Some Soldiers were on a ridgeline west of the village of Azurkhel, when they started receiving fire from about 5 enemy insurgents from the south; 4 to 6 hundred meters away,” said 1st Sgt. Todd Bair, of Utah. “There was a small amount of intermittent fire going back and forth between the U.S. Coalition and insurgents, which lasted about an hour.  We did end up shooting an insurgent in the leg that was on a motorcycle fleeing the area with a weapon,” Bair said. “Later on the ANA destroyed the motorcycle.”

Afterwards, the forces moved on to their last task, the village of Muchkhel, just a few kms away. That afternoon, an outpost was secured from an old set of ruins in the village. The forces spent the rest of the evening there without incident.

On the final day, the mood around the camp was much more upbeat than the previous 4 days. The men were ready to finish their mission and return to FOB Altimur for a hot shower and a warm meal. Laughter could be heard all around the camp as the Soldiers recanted stories and told jokes.

While the ANA and Black Scarf Soldiers made their rounds clearing the village, Roesler purchased a sheep from the village cleric. Afghan troops bought vegetables and bread, and began to prepare dinner. “I think things like this go a long way in our relations with the ANA and the people,” said Roesler. “It shows them that we aren’t much different than they are. I think this actually makes us a little more human to them.”

While the troops could almost see the helicopters coming to pick them up, the insurgents weren’t ready to let them go so easily. Shots rang out and once again, the Black Scarves took action.  Rolling the .50-caliber and the grenade launcher into position, they returned fire.

As the insurgents ran for cover, darkness settled in and the forces prepared to come home. “The biggest thing for all of us is that we took a lot of contact during the last 4 days and everybody’s okay. No injuries or scrapes and that’s due to individual Soldier discipline.”

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Training the New Guys in Paktika Province

Photos by Army Sgt. Wesley Petrus
 


PAKTIKA PROVINCE – Sgt. Brandon Hernandez (middle), a team leader from W.Va., with 370th Engr. Co, TF Gridley, TF Sword, trains Spc. Brent Crawford (left), from N.Y., and Spc. Mark Walters, from N.Y., both drivers with the 877th Engr. Co, on communication radios, Nov. 1.



Spc. Mark Walters finishes checking his vehicle, after a long day of training with incoming Soldiers of 370th EC.



Staff Sgt. Brian Mathis (far right), with 370th EC, a squad leader from Ga., demonstrates route clearance patrol techniques to new troops from the 877th EC, Nov. 2.  Mathis’ unit conducted route clearance patrols over the past year throughout Paktika prov., without losing any Soldiers.



Sgt. Steven Lacasse (front), a squad leader from Mass., 370th EC, outlines mine sweeping techniques in the dirt to U.S. Army Soldiers of the 877th EC, Nov. 2.

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DVIDS

ISAF Joint Command Operational Update, Nov. 15, 2011

By ISAF Joint Command

South

HELMAND PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor captured 2 Taliban leaders, during a security op in Musa Qal’ah district, yesterday. The leaders coordinated the movement of insurgent fighters in the Musa Qal’ah district, conducted attacks against CF, and distributed roadside bombs throughout the region.  Multiple additional suspected insurgents were captured.

East

GHAZNI PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and CF discovered a weapons cache, during an op in Andar district,   yesterday. The cache consisted of 9 RPGs.

KHOST PROVINCE -- A Haqqani network leader was captured by a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor, during an op in Bak district, yesterday. The leader distributed weapons and planned attacks against Afghan and CF. The security force also confiscated multiple weapons, and detained an additional suspected insurgent.

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IRAQI STORY:

DVIDS

Honoring a Modern Day Veteran

By 1st BCT, 1st Cav Div

COS ECHO -- For many, the year 2003 is nothing more than a year that is long gone. For South America native, Sgt. 1st Class Fred Fox, a 12-year Army Infantry veteran, and former Marine, currently assigned to Co B, 2nd Bn, 8th Cav Regt, 1st Bde, 1st Cav Div, it's a year marked by the beginning of a life changing event.

U.S. Forces began their push into the country of Iraq in early 2003. Vets like Fox vividly remember those trying years leading up to the current U.S. Forces’ position within the country. “In those years of the war, it was about killing or being killed, and we soldiers all wanted to come home,” Fox states.

Fox remembers these years as being some of the most mentally challenging. “Witnessing a battle buddy pass or a friend die, is an image that you never get out of your mind. No matter how much you try to shake it, it’s always there,” said Fox. “You almost want to run away to escape the hardships.”

These hard times brought forth growth, but for Fox, the growth that was evolving within him was one fueled with anger for a people viewed as the enemy. This anger led him to ultimately make the decision to leave the military, after serving as a Marine gunner for 5-1/2 years.

“These people were not friends of mine. I was nothing more than an outsider looking into a culture I couldn’t understand, and didn’t care to relate to,” expressed Fox. This pessimistic mentality changed with Fox’s return to the military as a member of the Military Transition Team (MTT). The intense combat that was previously favored, started to lean more heavily toward rebuilding the country of Iraq.

“We lost many lives during the invasion, but their sacrifice has not gone unnoticed or unappreciated. In fact, their memory still drives me to want to push forward in this fight,” a sympathetic Fox states. He said that this was his reason for opting to return to the force, but as an Army infantryman.

Fox gives much credit to his time deployed as a member of MTT. This deployment shaped his pessimistic way of thinking to an optimistic point of view, symbolizing a pivotal change in his life. “Living in close quarters with leaders of the Iraqi public changed the way I viewed the civilians.  Iraqi civilians were friends.  I understood them, and no longer viewed them as the enemy, but as people who needed my help, a service I volunteered to do; to protect those who find it hard to protect themselves,” explains Fox.

A humbled Fox, now a platoon leader, is on his 4th tour in Iraq. He's astounded by the progression that has occurred in Iraq, during the 8 years that U.S. Forces have been in the country. “There’s a lot of good here in Iraq. When I lead my guys on patrols, I tell them to avoid tunnel vision, and not be afraid to connect with the people here. I not only view the populace through the eyes of a soldier, but from the perspective of a father, husband and friend,” advised Fox.

When asked about his military career, Fox states, “I joined not wanting the praise or accolades that come with the uniform, but to make a difference. I’ve been deployed almost half of the time I have been married to my wife,” and every day that I’m able to inspire a soldier or young child in a village, by giving them a necessity like water, it makes it all worth it”.

Spending time away from family and friends never gets easier over the course of multiple deployments. However, Fox feels his personal sacrifice and selfless service is greatly appreciated by Iraqi civilians. He says their gratitude and appreciation can be seen in the smiles of admiration, whenever his platoon arrives to a local school or village to deliver humanitarian aid.

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Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/11-16-11

Dear Interested Reader,
COP Najil counts on the 'Death Star.'  Learning the ropes as a Black Hawk Crew Chief.  Valor awards go to MEDEVAC crew.  Close call for Soldiers tracking bomb maker.  ISAF Joint Command operational update, Nov. 14, 2011.
Iraq:  Postal services stop as troops are heading home.
Joanna
__________________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

DVIDS

COP Najil Counts on the 'Death Star'

Story and photos by Spc. Leslie Goble

A soldier from Co A, 1st Bn, 179th Inf, 45th IBCT peeks out of the “Death Star,” Oct. 27. The outpost overlooks COP Najil, and is manned by soldiers 24 hours a day.  Its name may have come from the tyrannical amount of weaponry it boasts, or the daunting hike it takes to get up to it.

LAGHMAN PROVINCE — Life is simple at the outpost:  eat, sleep, and protect the COP.  Below the Death Star, COP Najil is filled with fortified fighting positions and wooden buildings called B-huts. The only running water is in the shower area and the self service laundry. Resources are few and far between, but soldiers look to keep each other’s spirits up, despite their location. “We make do with what we got,” said Pfc. Charles Brake of Okla. “The gym is heavily used, especially since we got more cardio machines recently.”

The basic amenities at COP Najil define the soldier’s view of what “soldiering up” really means. They rely on supplies to be flown in. Soldiers from other bases collect items to send to those at places like COP Najil. Though they may feel separated from so much, soldiers are able to find ways to do one of Oklahoma’s favorite past times—watching football.

“We hook up the TV in the dining facility to the computer in the recreation tent, so we can watch OU and OSU games on TV,” said Brake. “That’s usually what I look forward to these days.” Life can almost seem like a fish bowl within the walls of the COP, but life gets very different as soldiers move outside the compound walls.

Brake described living on the COP as an ironic juxtaposition. “You look around and see nothing but beauty,” said Brake. “The mountains are breathtaking and the valleys are amazing. Yet mountains that should be used for hiking and sightseeing are filled with fighting positions.”

These fighting positions are commonly used to stage attacks on soldiers, when they're outside the compound walls, or to attack the COP with mortars and rifles to try to disrupt day-to-day life. “We don’t get attacked on the COP too much anymore, but we can go right outside the wire and get into fire fights,” said Staff Sgt. Michael Duff, from Okla. “I really think they're afraid of the Death Star.”

“It’s pretty secluded out here, reminding me of the wild, wild west of Afghanistan,” said Brake. “It’s like the rural areas of Oklahoma, just with mountains and mortars.” Combat patrols go outside the wire several times a week into the secluded valleys around the COP to hunt the insurgents. The enemy’s tactics rarely see results.



Pfc. Charles Brake gets a haircut at the secluded COP Najil, Oct. 27. Within the walls of COP Najil, soldiers still try maintain everyday life.



Staff Sgt. Michael Duff, from Okla., looks out of the “Death Star,” Oct. 27.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Learning the Ropes as a Black Hawk Crew Chief

Story and photos by Army Sgt. 1st Class Eric Pahon
 


Pfc. Craig Lewis (left), 19, and Spc. Jared Yoakam, 26, both with 82nd CAB, watch for signs of mechanical issues with the main rotor on their UH-60M Black Hawk helicopter, as it shuts down, Nov. 15.

JALALABAD — A Black Hawk crew chief is known to just about everyone as the Soldier in control of the helicopter.  They’re so important that their names used to be stencilled in black paint on the side of the bird.  The Army’s moved away from that tradition in the past few years, but the crew chief’s importance hasn’t diminished.

The Student:  Landing a Black Hawk amidst trees, other helicopters and vehicles is a little like trying to parallel-park an 18-wheeler without rear-view mirrors in high winds. Pfc. Craig Lewis has to become the eyes and ears for the pilots, whose view is limited to what they can see out of the cockpit windows.  That leaves 53 feet of helicopter they can’t see; about the same length as a large semi-trailer. Even though he’s got a teacher to guide him, Lewis, 19, has just found himself responsible for a machine where each of the 4 rotor blades costs more than $200,000.

The Teacher:  “I try to make it fun,” said Spc. Jared Yoakam of Ohio.  “You have to make it fun, so as he gets further along, and he’s required to know a lot more stuff, it all points back to being fun, which is the reason why it’s worthwhile to study and learn.  Not everybody gets to do this, but there’s a lot to learn and do, and not much room for error.”
  
Becoming a fully qualified crew chief is a 3-step process.  Lewis is “Readiness Level III,” or the most basic level.  The relationship between him and Yoakam is similar to that of a student driver and instructor.  And Yoakam is always there in the passenger seat ready to hit the brakes.  That’s quite a change from the young man he was just 1-1/2 years ago when he joined the Army at 17, during his senior year of high school.

The End of Today's Lesson:  In the air, Yoakam is still busy nudging Lewis.  Two more passes through the valley, more expended belts of ammo, and then, rather suddenly, Lewis begins firing short, controlled bursts, and landing a majority of the rounds on target.

“There you go,” sounds Yoakam over the intercom.  Lewis turns his head and smiles.  A few more congratulatory words, and Yoakam asks the pilot to head back home.  He and Lewis have achieved a victory for the day, and he ends the training on a high note.



Pfc. Craig Lewis (background), 19, fires his M-240B machine gun from a UH-60M Black Hawk helicopter. Spc. Jared Yoakam, 26, is training Lewis to become a Black Hawk crew chief; a position that makes him responsible for the daily op and safety of the nearly $6 million machine and its passengers. Aerial marksmanship is just one of many tasks Lewis will have to master before he earns his qualification.



Spc. Jared Yoakam (left), teaches Pfc. Craig Lewis the skills necessary to become a Black Hawk crew chief, in the doorway of their UH-60M helicopter.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Valor Awards go to MEDEVAC Crew

Written by Army Sgt. 1st Class Eric Pahon



BAGRAM AIRFIELD — A French platoon-sized element was guarding a small compound Sep. 7, when an insurgent threw a grenade over the wall. 

“Yesterday was hell,” said Maj. Cyrille, a French medical officer in an 8 Sept. letter. The explosion killed one, and injured one other.  As insurgents continued to attack, another French Soldier was shot through the throat.

Since they were almost a mile from the main supply route and the only way to get there was a treacherous journey by foot over rocky terrain, they called in an American helicopter to carry the injured Soldiers out.

For their actions that day, 4 U.S. Soldiers received Army Commendation Medals for valor, Nov. 11, for saving the lives of the 2 critically-wounded French troops in the Tagab Valley, Kapisa prov.
The medical evacuation crew arrived overhead within minutes, only to find a battle still raging below. There was little hope the French Soldiers would survive without their help.

U.S. Army Maj. Graham Bundy and Chief Warrant Officer 2 Christopher DeOliveira, both with C Co, 3rd Bn, 82nd CAB, made the decision to land. “The only thing running through your mind at that point is that there are people down there who need our help,” said Bundy, of N.C. “You have to get to them; you can’t fail.”

Sgt. Robert Wengeler, of Wash., provided security while Staff Sgt. Erin Gibson, a flight medic, climbed out of the helicopter and ran to the patients. “I didn’t even think about the danger at the time,” said Gibson, of Ohio. “I just knew there were 2 hurt guys out there that needed my help and I had to get them on my helicopter.”

Gibson triaged the patients, had them loaded, and had the pilots lifting the wheels of the helicopter off the ground in less than 4 minutes. “We witnessed the incredible courage of the U.S. Army as you made an air evacuation under fire only 200 meters from our position,” said Cyrille.  “Because of your actions, our Soldiers are still alive.”

“When I heard what the crew did that night, I was in awe of their bravery and commitment to never leave a fallen comrade, whether it be American or not,” said Col. T.J. Jamison, cmdr., 82nd CAB.  “These Soldiers truly exemplify the warrior ethos.”

Gibson has a much more modest view of what happened. “Really, I’m just doing my job like any Soldier,” said Gibson.



From left to right, Maj. Graham Bundy, Chief Warrant Officer 2 Christopher DeOliveira, Staff Sgt. Erin Gibson, and Sgt. Robert Wengeler.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Close Call for Soldiers Tracking Bomb Maker

Written by Army Spc. Tanangachi Mfuni



U.S. Soldiers and Afghan Border Police (ABP) wait outside the Sheyk Amir Kaley Mosque, in eastern Afghanistan, Sept. 2, hoping to catch a known bomb-maker as he leaves midday prayers.

KHOWST PROVINCE — As the call to midday prayer echoed through the village of Sheyk Amir Kaley, Capt. Bernard Gardner and his troops knew they were close to catching their man. The cmdr. of Co C, 1st Bn, 26th Inf Regt, was hot on the trail of a bomb-maker, from his unit’s most wanted list.
That Sept. afternoon, Gardner and his Afghan partners set up shop opposite a green and white mosque, near the Gorbuz District Center, and waited. As prayers ended and men exited the mosque, the combined force began holding everyone outside.

"I had his photo," recalled Gardner, from Wyo.; combing the crowd for the bomb-maker as his Soldiers painstakingly started collecting each man’s biometric data. The biometric collection process snaps pictures, scans fingerprints and irises, while allowing for the input of basic biographical info, like name and birth date. Once gathered, the info is transmitted to a centralized database that instantly alerts Soldiers if an individual is on terrorist watch lists.

As afternoon gave way to early evening, curious children swarmed around Gardner and his Soldiers. Troops usually consider the presence of children in Afghanistan a good omen. When kids are around, it's less likely the bad guys will attack for fear of killing innocents, and thus facing the community's reprisal. This time, however, was different.

A group of children scuttled close to the Soldiers, kicking rocks as they ran. What looked like an older kid, pitched something in their direction. "Grenade!" yelled Sgt. 1st Class James Smith, who ducked as the pineapple grenade flew over his shoulder, landing ten feet away where he and 3 others stood.

"We were all within the kill radius of that grenade," said Smith, from Calif., who said the group collectively dove to the ground for cover. While that action saved their lives, it didn't spare them from injury. Smith suffered 4 shrapnel wounds; Gardner ten.

"My whole body went numb," remembered Gardner, a West Point graduate who once headed his alma mater's wrestling team. Though he made several attempts to get up and return fire after being hit, the most he could do was stagger to the side of the road. "My body went into shock. I passed out and hit the ground."

Meanwhile, pandemonium had broken out among the crowd. They took to running and cramming into nearby shops for cover. As they scattered, the bomb-maker got away. The Soldiers had no doubt the bomb maker and his supporters orchestrated the attack as a diversion to make his escape possible.

As the chaos continued, an insurgent climbed onto one of the company's trucks and lobbed a grenade inside the gunner's hatch. "He slam-dunked the grenade into the turret," said Smith, who, though hemorrhaging from the first attack, managed to shoot the grenade-wielding attacker.

Inside the truck, all that the turret gunner, Pfc. Darrick Jones, saw was a hand drop something near him. Hearing the telltale rattle of a grenade bouncing dangerously close to him, Jones frantically searched for it, but couldn't see where it had fallen.

Detonating inches away, blood streaked down Jones' right arm. He applied a tourniquet to stop the bleeding. Amazingly, the grenade had gotten stuck on the turret's control box, and didn't enter the truck where it could have had lethal impact.

Instinctively, Jones had his back turned to the explosion and his body armor absorbed the brunt of the blast. The bleeding on his arm was the result of several small pieces of shrapnel. Jones, along with 5 other Soldiers wounded in the grenade attacks, have been nominated for Purple Hearts. The prestigious award recognizes service members injured during combat.

Though hospitalized with multiple shrapnel wounds, 3 days after the attack Gardner was back at work at COP Bowri Tana. "Where I belong is with my men," said Gardner, who keeps pieces of the shrapnel removed from his body in a plastic cup on his office shelf.

Gardner's office is telling of the things that matter the most to him. Above his head hangs a gold and black banner with the word "Ranger" in bold letters. Among the items on Gardner's shelf is the book, "They Fought for Each Other," an account of the unit’s 16-month 2007 deployment to Iraq.

Then, as if set apart from everything, is a gold framed photograph of his smiling wife and 3-year-old daughter. The picture is stuck to green construction paper with a handwritten note. "We love you daddy," it reads. "Come back home soon!"



Sgt. 1st Class James Smith, a plt. sgt. from Co C, holds a bandage on shrapnel wounds, Sept. 2. Smith was the first to identify the grenade that exploded feet away from him, and several members of his company.



Capt. Bernard Gardner, cmdr., lies on a stretcher, while being treated for shrapnel wounds suffered during an attack.



Pfc. Darrick Jones holds up the raincoat he was wearing during an attack. Jones’ body armor prevented a grenade from causing any serious injury despite detonating just feet from his position. (Photo by U.S. Army Spc. Tanangachi Mfuni, 7th MPAD)

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DVIDS

ISAF Joint Command Operational Update, Nov. 14, 2011

By ISAF Joint Command

South

KANDAHAR PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor captured a Taliban leader, during a security op in Maiwand district, yesterday. The leader coordinated ambush and roadside bomb attacks against Afghan forces and enforced Sharia law throughout the area. One additional suspected insurgent was detained.

 HELMAND PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor discovered an IED and detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in Marjah district, yesterday. CF observed multiple males emplace a suspected IED and depart for a nearby compound, while conducting surveillance activities in the area. After confirming the location and securing the IED, the combined force proceeded to the compound, and detained multiple males for further questioning. An Afghan EOD team was dispatched to the scene and destroyed the IED on site.

----- In Garm Ser district, a Taliban facilitator was captured and 2 suspected insurgents were detained by a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor during an op, yesterday. The facilitator coordinated the movement of roadside bomb materials, weapons and suicide bombers for use in attacks against Afghan forces.

----- A combined Afghan and coalition security patrol killed several insurgents and wounded one other in Marjeh district, Nov. 13. The Afghan and the coalition patrol received small arms fire from insurgents in the area during the op. The patrol returned fire resulting in the deaths of the insurgents. The wounded insurgent was detained and taken for medical treatment and further questioning.

----- A combined Afghan and coalition security patrol killed 2 insurgents and seized a narcotics cache in Kajaki district, as part of an op that occurred throughout the week.  Armed insurgents approached the Afghan and the coalition patrol on a motorcycle, while displaying hostile intent. The patrol fired, resulting in the deaths of the 2 insurgents. The op seized 6,600-lbs (3,000 kgs) of morphine base, a quantity of drug processing equipment, 2 AK-47’s and a quantity of ammo.

East

KABUL PROVINCE -- A Haqqani network cell leader was captured and multiple suspected insurgents were detained by a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor during, an op in Musahi district, yesterday. The leader coordinated and conducted attacks against Afghan govt officials. More than 100-lbs (45 kgs) of illegal narcotics were seized during the op.

WARDAK PROVINCE -- In Sayyidabad district, a coalition SecFor detained numerous suspected insurgents, during an op, yesterday. The insurgents were sought for questioning about their roles in recent insurgent IED attacks against Afghan and CF in the area.

LOGAR PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Haqqani network leader in Pul-e ‘Alam district, yesterday. The network leader directs attacks against Afghan and CF.

GHAZNI PROVINCE -- In Deh Yak district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor killed an insurgent and detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban leader, yesterday. The leader operates a roadside bomb attack cell, and is responsible for bomb attacks against convoys in Andar and Deh Yak districts. During the op, the SecFor was threatened by an armed individual. Responding to the threat, the security force fired, killing the insurgent. Multiple weapons were confiscated.

PAKTIYA PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor captured a Haqqani network leader and detained numerous suspected insurgents, during an op in Chamkani district, yesterday. The leader distributed rockets, firearms, and roadside bomb components, as well as coordinated attacks throughout Sabari district, Khost prov.

KHOST PROVINCE --  In Sabari district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor patrol discovered a weapons cache, while conducting an op to disrupt insurgent activities in the region. The weapons cache consisted of 3 RPGs, 2 82 mm mortars, 20 rocket boosters, 2 RPG tail fins, a rifle, an RPG launcher, an IED, and 750 rounds of 7.62 mm ammo.

KUNAR PROVINCE -- In Nurgal district, a weapons cache was turned over to CF by a local civilian. The cache consisted of 28 various types of rockets and 29 cases for RPG propellant.

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IRAQI STORY:

DVIDS

Postal Services stop as Troops are Heading Home

Story and photos by Spc. Anthony Zane



A soldier carries a duffle bag to send home into the Army Post Office on COB Adder, Nov. 11.

COB ADDER – With the expectation that U.S. forces will be out of Iraq by the end of the year, the number of service members leaving the country continues to increase, while the volume of incoming mail has decreased. The Army Post Office stopped receiving incoming mail, and notified service members on base that Nov. 13 is the last day for postal services.

"We sent out notification 90 days before the deadline so soldiers could prepare and allow them time to send what they needed home," said Sgt. Christian Sanchez, contracting officer rep, Postal Plt, 1-502nd Human Resource Co, from Fla.

“We were expecting to be really busy, so we extended the hours,” said Sanchez. “The idea was to keep it open late so people who work a 12-hour shift would have a chance to get to the APO and mail their stuff home,” said Sanchez.

In the past, civilian contractors have operated the APO, but with the drawdown, all ops are in a transition phase.  Right now the 1-502nd Postal Plt supervises and assists the civilian employees, but will take over full ops of the APO when they leave country.

“It’s been running smoothly,” said Spc. Rosemary Siatunuu, military postal mission NCO-in-charge, Postal Plt, 1-502nd HR Co, from Hawaii. “We put out a flyer of info to the units, telling them that the military people can come out to their location and service them,” said Siatunuu. “It’s to speed up the process. That way they’re not all coming into the post office at different times. They all do it as a unit.”

"The difference is that it's military personnel doing the mobile inspections, and not contracted civilians," said Siatunuu. Their success has exceeded their own expectations.

“Altogether, my platoon came into Iraq under the assumption that we would be working as a postal plt,” said 1st Lt. Carl Price, postal platoon leader, Postal Plt, 1-502nd HR Co, from Texas. “We didn’t really know what that entailed, but getting on the ground at our first location in Mosul (FOB) Marez, we were able to handle the postal mission there in conjunction with civilian personnel, as well as the 2nd location - Joint Base Balad.”

“It hasn’t been as difficult as I would have imagined, because we’ve already gone through this closure process in those other 2 locations,” said Price. "The difference between this location and our previous location is, instead of it being an APO closure, we’re actually doing a full transition over to the Dept of State," said Price.

Service members are grateful for the Postal Plt. “Customer service and helping out the soldiers is the best part of this job,” said Siatunuu. “It’s very helpful for the Soldiers, because a lot of them don’t have time to come to the post office, and they really appreciate when we come out and do these mobile missions.”

“All in all, it has been a pleasant experience,” said Price. “I wouldn’t have been able to do any of it without the dedication of my NCOs and the motivation of my troops; I definitely thank the service of the civilian personnel that are here also.”



Sgt. Christian Sanchez moves a container filled with packages ready to mail back to the states.

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Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/11-15-11

Dear Interested Reader,
Ben Franklin gets the boot in Zabul prov.  Maj. Gen. Huggins visits Baylough to present combat awards.  Improving the irrigation infrastructure.  ALP detain suspected insurgents after being attacked.  ISAF Joint Command operational update, Nov. 13, 2011.
Iraq:  GarryOwen Soldiers head south, pass through Kalsu.
Joanna
___________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

Blackanthem Military News

Ben Franklin Gets the Boot in Zabul Province

By Staff Sgt. Rebecca Petrie



Capt. Ed Bochtler, 116th IBCT asst. logistics officer, barters with a local merchant at FOB Lagman, before making a purchase, Nov. 12.  FOB Lagman is the first military base to entirely eliminate the circulation of U.S. dollars, in response to a July 2010 fragmentary order to reduce the amount of U.S. cash flowing through Afghanistan.

ZABUL PROVINCE – “Since June, we’ve actually been able to retrograde out of theatre almost $2 million,” said Capt. Jonathan Oblon, a Soldier from Fla., and the cmdr. of Bravo Det., 82nd Financial Mgt. Co. “That’s $2 million that won’t be making it out onto the local economy.”

“Reliance on U.S. currency in theater devalues the Afghan currency, and undermines their efforts to establish a strong currency to be exchanged on the open market,” said Oblon. Eliminating the flow of U.S. cash will “strengthen the economy and their govt’s legitimacy,” he said. “The transformation between currencies has begun the symbolic sovereignty of Afghanistan.”

Efforts originally focused on getting eagle cash card point of sales (POS) devices for vendors at the bazaar on base. POS devices are similar to debit cards. The finance det. worked with the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston, and discovered that they could obtain POS devices for each one of the vendors, without having to link them to a U.S. bank account. Instead, they take their POS machines to the finance office once a week and receive their earnings in Afghani.

“I’m really happy about the machine,” said Sayed Jan, a local vendor, “because I get more clients, since they can pay with their card. Before, they could only buy if they had cash.”

In order to accomplish their mission, Oblon and his team had to look beyond the bazaar vendors. Now, because of the new system setup, finance services are open to everyone. “Never before have foreign services been able to use our finance offices,” said Oblon. “We kept arguing the fact that if we really wanted to get U.S. cash off the battlefield, we needed to open up to everybody, and we finally got that approval. Now, even the Romanians can get eagle cash cards. They deposit U.S. currency on the card, and use it like a prepaid debit card. We’re the first finance office to do that.”

Making the switch from U.S. dollars to the eagle cash card has several benefits not only for Afghanistan, but the U.S. as well.  Since the Afghani is not globally recognized, the enemy relies heavily on U.S. dollars to finance their activities.
“The reduction of U.S. currency on the battlefield disrupts the enemy’s ability to go outside the country to purchase explosives and weapons,” said Oblon, “and all that extra cash can now be spent on strengthening our own economy.”

Achieving their goal was not easy for the small finance det. There was a lot of bureaucracy and red tape to cut through, but they worked tirelessly, and met their goal within 6 months. In May, they hit an important benchmark when they disbursed more Afghani than U.S. dollars, and by Oct., they were no longer disbursing any U.S. cash.

“It was a little bumpy at first, but it’s starting to get a lot better,” said Oblon. “DynCorp now pays all their local employees in Afghani. It was different at first, but now they’ve embraced it. All local contracts for everybody are paid out in Afghani, so no U.S. dollars are making it out there.”

According to a February 2010 report, there are about 400 U.S. and coalition bases in Afghanistan, including camps, FOBs, and COPs.  If each one of them followed the example set by FOB Lagman’s finance det., and eliminated the circulation of U.S. currency, savings would reach into the billions of dollars.

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Blackanthem Military News

Maj. Gen. Huggins visits Baylough to Present Combat Awards

Story and photos by Maj. Nevin Blankenship



Maj. Gen. James Huggins, Regional Command South cmdr., presents 12 soldiers with a combat infantryman badge at COP Baylough, Nov. 7. Senior leadership from the 82nd AD, 116th IBCT, and 1st Bn, 24th Inf Regt, 1st Stryker BCT, 25th ID visited the soldiers.

ZABUL PROVINCE – “Everything you do depends on the soldier next to you,” said Huggins. “In this remote outpost you have to have a focus and a purpose.” Soldiers from Bravo Co, 1-24th Inf Regt are subject to mortar and small arms fire at the COP, but all of them share a common bond with each other, through the experience of being located at the remote COP. Ceremonies like this one bring a stronger brotherhood to the soldiers of Bravo Co, because each of them knows that they can depend on each other during life and death situations.

In all, 9 combat inf badges, 2 combat action badges, and a combat medic badge were presented.  Capt. Charles Timm, Bravo Co, led the senior leaders on a tour of the COP. The COP has ANA serving alongside American soldiers. The leaders paused for lunch by enjoying an MRE with Timm before leaving the COP.



Maj. Gen. James Huggins and Col. Blake Ortner, 116th IBCT cmdr., look at the landscape at COP Baylough.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Improving Afghanistan’s Irrigation Infrastructure

Story and photos by AF Capt. Dale Mitchell
 


Army Major Samuel Forester, from Mo., and Sgt. 1st Class Keith Mays, of Mo., both with the Nangarhar ADT, survey the progress of rehabilitation to the Amla Dewa Karez, Nov. 14.  Decades of drought, conflict and economic strife have contributed to the decimation of critical irrigation infrastructure within Afghanistan.

NANGARHAR PROVINCE — With the support of U.S. agribusiness development teams (ADTs), canals across provs. in eastern Afghanistan are being restored to protect the nation’s valuable water resources. Major ADT initiated irrigation rehabilitation projects in Nangarhar, have focused on strengthening the capacity of the provincial level agriculture ministry’s ability to develop, execute, monitor and assess water mgt. projects. 

“Our team is committed to finding new and innovative ways for Afghans to meet the demand for water, and improve agricultural livelihoods. In order to accomplish this goal we've built in a monthly agricultural training seminar, as well as project mgt. courses for our Afghan partners.  These are great opportunities for collegial discourse between the provincial ministry of agriculture, local universities, and research facilities in the area,” said Army Capt. Allan Sharrock, an agribusiness specialist with the Nangarhar ADT. “Ideas such as these lead to the growth of long-lasting business relationships, which will continue long after the ADT mission is complete.”

With ADT support, the Nangarhar Provincial DAIL has recently rehabilitated 24 major rural irrigation systems, and returned more than 240 hectares of cultivated land to full production.  These projects included installation and repair of retaining walls, de-silting and refuse removal efforts, and installation of water-control systems such as sluice gates.  Additional projects included water intake replacement; canal bank restoration to include planting of foliage to support stability and water-conservation, concrete reinforcement, and construction of concrete caps to seal and reinforce underground channels.
 
For centuries, Afghans have manipulated major waterways to support arable crop land.  As nation-wide demand for fresh water continues to increase, efforts are being put in place to ensure adequate stores of water remain for economic growth in the form of agricultural development. “The political turmoil of the past 3 decades has left Afghanistan’s irrigation infrastructure in a state of tremendous disrepair,” said Sharrock. 

“The majority of irrigation canals surveyed are extremely inefficient, due to many factors including refuse build-up, degradation of retaining walls, and silt build-up.  The farmers of Afghanistan are beginning to feel the weight of these decades of neglect.  The future of Afghanistan depends on continued, sustainable access to safe water for human consumption as well as irrigation.”

Mohammed Ayas, a tenant farmer, stood amidst an endless sea of corn; ready for harvest.  Like many farmers across Afghanistan, Ayas knows the vast environmental issues facing Afghanistan; specifically the looming freshwater crisis. 
“All of the projects completed are helping to alleviate the factors aggravating water scarcity,” said Sharrock. 

As Ayas tends to his crop, he's well aware of the crucial work underway to provide a continued source of irrigation water to his homeland, Alma Dewa Village. “After the last canal project, the water flow in my canal has increased significantly,” he said.  “I now have access to more water to irrigate my corn, wheat, and rice fields.”

In Ayas’ home district; local agriculture extension agent Hanyoun Aikhil is leading several projects, with the intention of restoring the underground karez irrigation systems servicing the district.  Karez systems are comprised of underwater irrigation canals consisting of vertical wells, underground canals, above-ground canals, and small water reservoirs.  Melting snows from the Hindu Kush mountains are the primary water source for the karez system.

Aikhil’s first 2-month karez rehabilitation project, implemented through Nangarhar Agribusiness Cmdr’s Small Scale Project funds, improved the irrigation of 600 jeribs of agricultural land, supporting over 255 families with irrigation and safe drinking water.
 
“This project led by the Agricultural Extension Agent, immediately improved the lives of the Afghans living in this community,” said Sgt. 1st Class Keith Mays, of Missouri, an agricultural liaison officer for Dari Nor.  “Having our Afghan partners take the lead in implementing projects, improves the public image of the GoA.  Citizens can now see their needs are being met by their govt.”

Nearby, meetings with local community members and the District Development Assembly has brought about another karez rehabilitation project. “These projects are crucial to empowering local citizens to take an active role in the future of their country,” said Mays.  “These projects represent many citizens' first taste at what a legitimate, democratic govt can do to enhance their livelihoods.   Partnering with our counterparts and allowing them to take the lead, is vital for a seamless transition from CF to GoA.  As an ADT liaison, I continually assess and monitor the project mgt capabilities of my Afghan counterparts, providing guided support and enabling tools as necessary.”

In time for the fall planting season, the rehabilitation of these irrigation systems has proven itself to be a community-building endeavor as citizens, both young and old, provided unskilled labor.  According to Malik Rahman, a village elder and the project supervisor, farmers in the immediate area previously purchased water at a rate of 150 Afghani per hour, pumped to their fields from a private well owner. 

“This cost isn't affordable by many, and leaves farm land underutilized.  Restoring this once vibrant karez will alleviate the financial burden on my people,” said Rahman.  “We're so thankful for the support of our govt in making this project a reality.  This project has brought our community together; all of us are willing to lend a helping hand to ensure a better future.”

“Yes, of course all that you're doing to help our govt is helping us, the farmers,” said Ayas. “I'm looking forward to the future of Afghanistan.  Improvements in our water systems, better sources for our fields; this is hope for my family.”



Alma Dewa Village citizens, both young and old, support their communities efforts to rehabilitate their karez irrigation canal.



Mohammed Ayas discusses the positive outcomes due to karez irrigation projects in his community.



Citizens of the Alma Dewa village prepare concrete caps to seal karez irrigation canal access points.

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DVIDS

ALP Detain Suspected Insurgents After Being Attacked

By Spc. Ashley Bowman

ZABUL — The Afghan Local Police's (ALP) convoy was ambushed by approx 10 insurgent fighters, while traveling from the Shah Joy bazaar to the Walan Rabat village, Nov. 7.  Insurgents attacked the police force with machine gun and small arms fire, disabling the ALP vehicle. The ALP quickly gained fire superiority, forcing the insurgents to retreat into the nearby Qal’eh ye Sarvar village.

An ALP and coalition quick reaction force (QRF) team retrieved the immobile vehicle and assessed the ambush site, while another ALP element arrived to search the village of Qal’eh ye Sarvar.  During their search of the village, the ALP were again attacked by the insurgents, who then retreated into nearby houses.

ALP members continued to pursue the suspects and safely detained 9 personnel who were discovered hiding in the houses with suicide vests, AK-47s, and bomb making materials.  One of the insurgents was shot while trying to escape, and was immediately treated by coalition SOF medics. A village elder later positively identified the detainees as known insurgents.

The next day, Zabul Deputy Provincial Chief of Police, Colonel Jelani and the Walan Rabat ALP Cmdr., Mohamedullah, sat down and individually interviewed the 9 detainees.  One of the detainees admitted he was an insurgent and was involved with the recent murder of an ALP member, and also admitted to being involved in other ALP deaths in the area. After interviewing all the suspects, Jelani arrested 6 of the detainees and released the other 3 to their village elder.

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DVIDS

ISAF Joint Command Operational Update, Nov. 13, 2011

By ISAF Joint Command

South

ZABUL PROVINCE -- A coalition SecFor discovered a weapons cache during a routine patrol in Shah Joy district,  yesterday. The cache consisted of several radios and other communication devices, a 107 mm rocket, 2 RPG rounds, and materials for IEDs.

KANDAHAR PROVINCE -- In Maiwand district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained a Taliban facilitator and multiple suspected insurgents, during an op, yesterday. The facilitator operates in Maiwand district, and was directly involved in a recent kidnapping of several ANA soldiers. The facilitator also provides funds, weapons and equipment to his network.

HELMAND PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban leader in Nahr-e Saraj district, yesterday. The leader is a member of the Helmand Taliban Military Commission, and is responsible for planning and coordinating attacks against Afghan and CF in the district.

East

KHOST PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor killed one insurgent and detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Haqqani network leader in Nadir Shah Kot district, yesterday. The leader coordinates and participates in attacks against Afghan and CF, as well as provides info to Haqqani network leaders.

PAKTIKA PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Haqqani network leader in Zarghun Shahr district, yesterday. The leader directs an insurgent cell in the district, and is directly responsible for numerous IED and rocket attacks against Afghan and CF in the region.

LOGAR PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained a Haqqani network leader, during an op in Baraki Barak district, yesterday. The leader was directly involved in placing several roadside bombs in the Pul-e ‘Alam district of the prov.

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IRAQI STORY:

DVIDS

GarryOwen Soldiers Head South, Pass Through Kalsu

Story by Sgt. John Couffer

CONTINGENCY OPERATING SITE KALSU – The journey for GarryOwen soldiers began at Joint Base Balad; driving for about 5-1/2 hours through moderately congested traffic, heading south en route to their next stop. The convoy, comprised of soldiers assigned to Troop A, 1st Sqdn, 7th Cav Regt, 1st Bde, 1st Cav Div, the tip of GarryOwen’s southern movement, stop for fuel, food and rest at the Convoy Support Center, managed by the Ironhorse Bde, Nov. 4.

“Apache Troop is the lead element, so we're the spearhead for the sqdn. in moving south in the transition,” said Fla. native, Capt. Marc Jason, Apache Troop cmdr. “It’s an uneventful drive so far, which is always a plus. Our guys will stay vigilant, and hopefully it continues to be uneventful.”

COS Kalsu has hosted 12 units, like 1-7 Cav., as they passed through during their transitional move to Kuwait, drawing Operation New Dawn (OND) to a close. During their stay, these units have the opportunity to take advantage of the still-open facilities.

Jason explains that having access to amenities such as a dining facility that provides hot meals, Green Beans Coffee, Spaware sites and the Morale, Welfare and Recreation Center, plays a big role in raising the morale of Apache Soldiers, and revitalizing the body as Apache readies itself to continue their drive further south.

Passing through Kalsu presents Apache soldiers with an opportunity to see old friends they've been away from since being detached to JBB. “It’s good to see how things are going, meet battle buddies you haven’t seen for awhile, and shake hands on a note of success before continuing our mission,” Jason said.

The location of COS Kalsu gives traveling units the opportunity to have its vehicles inspected before continuing south.
“From the logistical point, it provides us an opportunity to refuel our vehicles, verify that they're still road worthy, and address any issues from the road march this way,” said Tenn. native, Staff Sgt. Fred Drolick II, maintenance supervisor, assigned to Apache.

He gives credit to the maintenance team located at Kalsu, assigned to 2nd Bn, 5th Cav Regt of the Ironhorse Bde, for being able to help with his vehicles, after coordinating prior to arriving at Kalsu. For some, stopping at Kalsu is a nice reprieve from these long missions. “It feels pretty good; we get to stop and get your morale boosted up again,” said Okla. native, Pfc. Richard Tyler, a cav scout, assigned to Apache Troop.

Tyler said he was excited to stop at a place with a dining facility and internet, due to those services being cut at Balad before he left.  He was also glad to get some sleep and re-energized before getting on the road again.

Kalsu will continue to play a role for units going south as the drawdown of U.S. forces in Iraq continues.

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Daily Afghan Update/11-14-11

Dear Interested Reader,
7th ESB brings commerce, growth during Op Eastern Storm.  Dreams to reality in 72 hours or less.  Forces re-establish presence in Nader Shah Kot.  Communities embrace literacy program.  ISAF Joint Command update, Nov. 12, 2011.
Iraq:  AF bids farewell to Ali Air Base (COB Adder).
Joanna
________________________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

DVIDS

7th ESB Brings Commerce, Growth During Op Eastern Storm

Story and photos by Cpl. Katherine Solano



Marines with 7th Engineer Support Battalion, 2nd Marine Logistics Group (Fwd), conduct route repairs along Route 611 in Helmand prov, Nov. 6. The repairs were completed over the span of multiple days in support of Op Eastern Storm.

HELMAND PROVINCE - As Op Tofan Sharq (Eastern Storm) continues in the upper Sangin Valley, Marines and sailors with 7th ESB, conducted multiple route repairs throughout early November. Op Eastern Storm began in Oct., as the Marines of 1st Bn, 6th Marine Regt routed the Taliban from Sangin to Kajaki – the last enemy stronghold in Helmand prov. – in an effort to secure Route 611.

The engrs. moved slowly and methodically along the route between PB Alcatraz and the Kajaki Dam. The area was previously impassable in some areas, due to erosion and IED damage. Not only did 7th ESB help to improve and repair the road, but they also helped to build multiple observation posts (OPs) along the route.

“1st Bn, 6th Marine Regt now mans all those positions, and holds the route from PB Alcatraz to the dam, so we could come in and build and repair the route,” said Chief Warrant Officer 3 Brandon Smith, the officer-in-charge of Heavy Weapons Plt, Security Co, 7th ESB. “Now, commercial trucks can start transporting the proper materials and assets up to the dam for the turbine work they have to do there, to start producing more electricity in the area.”

According to the USAID, this turbine will be the 3d in an ongoing project to bring more reliable power and irrigation to both Helmand and Kandahar provs. "The additional turbine is key to growth in the area, and will allow the dam to provide enough electricity to some of the farther-reaching villages of Helmand prov.," said Staff Sgt. Davison Slivers, the 7th ESB motor transport plt. staff NCO-in-charge, as he explained how important the route improvement project is.

The work the Marines are performing in preparation for the upgrade in the region’s infrastructure has also improved relationships with the local Afghans, as evidenced by their positive reaction to the Marines and convoy ops. “Every day we go out on the road, we see little kids, people waving. We're actually making a difference for the people here, even on a small level. We've made routes to places locals couldn’t even get to before with vehicles. It has improved a lot,” concluded Slivers.



Afghan locals shop, visit and work in a bazaar in Helmand prov.  A convoy with Marines from 7th ESB, passed through the bustling bazaar on their way to conduct Route 611 repairs in the surrounding area.



A local farmer carries corn crops past tactical vehicles with 7th ESB, Nov. 3. The Marines spent multiple days repairing Route 611 without disturbing the locals.



Chief Warrant Officer 3 Brandon Smith speaks with locals, while his unit conducts road repairs.

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DVIDS

Dreams to Reality in 72 Hours or Less

Story and photos by Sgt. John Ortiz



AF Civil Engrs., assigned to the 577th Expeditionary Prime Beef Sqdn., rest after a partial demolition of the back portion of the 3rd BCT, 1st AR Div, Joint Ops Center, located on FOB Shank. The AF Civil Engrs. consist of structural, electrical and plumbing specialists, who often have worked in the construction industry for more than 10 years, often times have 2 or more construction degrees, and are self-employed - either owning or working in a family–run construction business.

LOGAR PROVINCE – With a cut of a circular saw, a swing of a hammer and the vibrating sound of a reciprocating saw, 7 AF engrs demolished walls and ripped out wooden planks, to make room for an idea. On his many battlefield circulation trips, Col. Mark Landes, the TF Bulldog bde. cmdr., acquired an idea to create an open space in the ops center, so that people could readily hold huddles and discuss current ops, and a way ahead.

“It’s really all about giving the guys in the JOC a way to better track all the units in the battlefield, and have more situational awareness,” said Landes, as he walked in on a flurry of activity. “It’s the sights and sounds of progress.”

“I absolutely get job satisfaction,” said AF Master Sgt. Michael Caume, a resident of Mo., and an electrician who has spent the past decade and half in the military. “People are really appreciative of the work we do. They often times are living out in an austere environment, and it’s great to help them with basic living amenities.”

As a member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Caume brings little tips and tricks to get jobs done fast and efficiently, and shares them with other electrical engrs. in the unit. “I love doing this job, because it’s better than just being stuck in one place and becoming complacent. We're always out on missions, tackling different problems and working together to solve them,” he said. “Whenever we get somewhere, we immediately meet with the mayor cell and sgt. majs., and have them show us where we can make the most impact by giving us problems to fix,” said Caume.

“We always look for work wherever we go, fixing pumps or replacing a building’s electrical wiring. It really is all in a day’s work,” said Tech. Sgt. Daniel Romine, a Mo. native and electrical tech with the 577th EPBS. “Sometimes you go out to a COP and there are only 3 of us:  a structures guy, a plumber and an electrician, and we just have to help each other finish the job,” said Romine.

For  Penn. native Frank Monacelli, a structures specialist on his 2nd deployment, working with a civil engr. unit is all about increasing the quality of life.  Monacelli, a veteran of 16 years, joined the AF to see the world, get out of his hometown and skip class for a day. “An AF recruiter came by and told me he could get me out of class for a day, so I did that, listened to what he had to say, and really never looked back.”

His first mission in Afghanistan was to go to COP Blessing. “No power, no running water, no chow hall; eating was an MRE. We did a 2-day assessment; went back to our FOB;  grabbed a bunch of materials, and within a week had 10 showers, 6 toilets, 4 sinks, 8 washers and dryers, and established a power grid. We really helped them out, and it was pretty impressive with what we were able to do,” said Monacelli. “The Army guys were really hospitable, and very grateful after we helped fix a lot of damaged equipment.”

With Afghanistan being a landlocked country, almost every construction item is either trucked through Pakistan or delivered by air. Often times, due to weather and cloud cover that obscures 9,500 ft. mountain ranges, helicopters cannot deliver needed building supplies. “We don’t have a Home Depot here,” he said. “So, whenever we've a job to finish, but no construction material, we just look around the FOB or COP, and try and reuse whatever we can, use basic parts and pieces for a short-term fix, while we wait for materials to arrive.”

“One of the cool things we do when we are headed to a construction site is to use the helicopters we fly in as service trucks loaded full of parts, ladders, and equipment, and make a home delivery to where the troops need us the most,” said Monacelli.

An idea from a battlefield circulation to a reality in record time – 68 hours for a remodel of the JOC; a record the engrs. with the 577th EPBS can be proud of.



AF Tech. Sgt. Frank Monacelli uses a circular saw to cut a portion of the back wall.

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DVIDS

Forces Re-Establish Presence in Nader Shah Kot

Story and photos by Army Spc. Cody Barber



Soldiers trek along the roads towards another village, during a patrol in the Nader Shah Kot district, Nov. 1.

KHOWST PROVINCE — Flying in under the cloak of darkness, ANSF, along with American soldiers, conducted an air assault into the mountains of the Nader Shah Kot district. The combined force searched for weapon caches and suspected insurgents living in 3 villages, located in the northern part of the district.

Navigating through ankle-breaking terrain, troops with 3rd Bde, 1st ID descended upon the first village at daybreak. Instead of anticipated hostility, Afghan villagers greeted them with welcoming smiles, tea and flatbread. U.S. and Afghan Uniform Police (AUP) discovered possible IED-making material, along with small arms weapons in one of the houses.

“The individual was from one of the houses we were going to hit,” said 1st Sgt. Jason Sager, from Ind. “That individual had more weapons than he was allowed, and he also had more ammo than he was allowed, as well as possible IED-making materials.”

“Even a small discovery like that can make a big difference in the end,” said Capt. Mark Snowbarger, of Ohio. “Finding caches takes equipment off the battlefield from the bad guys. If they don’t have their equipment, no CF or ANSF can be hurt, and they can’t intimidate the locals.”

"Afghan villages haven’t seen U.S. or ANSF personnel for almost 3 years, so making their presence known, and re-establishing contact with the locals in the area was a good thing," said Sager. “We had intel that these areas were supporters of the Taliban, but since we've been to the area, we've confirmed that the reports were wrong,” said Sager. “Letting the people see the ANA and AUP out there working for them is always an important thing.”

As the day and the mission neared completion, the combined patrol heaved on their rucks, and set off back to base on foot. “For me, anytime I can bring my entire troop back to the camp, with no injuries, is a success.” said Snowbarger.



Capt. Mark Snowbarger (far right), sits with AUP and local villagers to enjoy flatbread and tea, during a village patrol.

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DVIDS

Communities Embrace Literacy Program

By Combined Joint Special Ops TF - Afghanistan

HERAT PROVINCE (Nov. 7, 2011) – The GoA, working with coalition Special Operations Forces (SOF), recently reintroduced a radio literacy program throughout Afghanistan. Radio broadcasts have been the primary source of news, current events and entertainment, and provide opportunities for citizens to communicate with local law enforcement. GoA is also offering basic-level education over the airwaves.

As illiteracy is common throughout Afghanistan, citizens of all ages and genders are participating in the program. Villagers in provs. throughout the country are tuning in their radios, during scheduled evenings to follow the program.  
Over the past 4 months, more than 28,000 companion workbooks have been distributed throughout the country, which is a 350% increase, compared to the same time last year. More books are being produced in Afghanistan, Qatar and the U.S. to meet the ever growing demand.

Radio Literacy Program (RLP) workbooks are distributed to the villagers by ALP, ministers of education, and village elders.  Villagers listen to the radio broadcast and follow along with the lessons in their workbooks.  Individuals’ progress is tracked by program mentors, who are ALP leaders, teachers, mullahs or govt officials.'

“Some villages focus more on children, due to the lack of regular schools,” said a coalition SOF team member.  “However, adults are also encouraged to participate, and do, in most villages.” For some villages, ALP are the main facilitators for the program, by not only distributing the workbooks, but also tutoring participants and mentoring the success of the program in their area.

In the Sanowghan village, Shindand prov., the ALP cmdr. recently addressed education to the public, during a call-in show. “Education is important in the Zerekoh valley,” he said.  “Anyone that wants to participate in the program should stop by an ALP checkpoint, and we'll collect the names, so we can obtain more RLP books for them.” The next day, 40 workbooks were immediately distributed, and the ALP were requesting more books to satisfy villagers’ increasing desire to participate. 

Meanwhile, in Badghis prov., Aq Murad, the Bala Morghab Minister of Education, distributed at least 50 workbooks to villagers, and a women’s literacy group. “By doing this, the ALP and ministers of education show citizens that the Afghan govt’s concern for improving Afghan lives,” said the coalition SOF team member. 

Coalition SOF studies show increased participation in the literacy program throughout the country.  More citizens are calling in to their local radio stations to discuss current conditions of the village, as a result of the RLP’s success. “Through RLP, communication and knowledge will increase between GoA and the people of Afghanistan,” said the coalition SOF team member.

“The positive ALP news stories and the cmdrs. talking on the radio, make the locals more comfortable with the ALP,” said the Sanowghan ALP cmdr. “All of the children are very excited about RLP, and it will greatly help their future,” said the Sanowghan ALP cmdr.  “The students think education is important, and are committed to finishing the program.

The program teaches basic literacy, but is also intended to instill the desire for further education and its pursuit, through GoA. “Without exception, villagers throughout the country support the program,” said the SOF team member.  “They've  said that the programs are easy to follow, and all participants intend to stick with it.”

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DVIDS

ISAF Joint Command Operational Update, Nov. 12, 2011

By ISAF Joint Command

South

HELMAND PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban leader in Nahr-e Saraj district, yesterday. The leader participates in attacks against Afghan and CF, and coordinates roadside bomb emplacement in the Upper Gereshk Valley, Nahr-e Saraj district.

KANDAHAR PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban IED facilitator in Arghandab district, yesterday. The facilitator was directly involved in a recent attack against a coalition base in the area.

East

NANGARHAR PROVINCE -- In Rodat district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained several suspected insurgents, during a security op, yesterday.

----- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor discovered a stockpile of drug-processing materials, during a routine patrol in Mohmand Darah district, yesterday. Acting on a tip, the force found 682-lbs (310 kgs) of ammonium in a nearby storage unit. Two males were detained for further questioning.

----- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor conducted an op in search of a Taliban and Hezb-e Islami Khalis leader in Khugyani district, yesterday. The leader directs Taliban and HIK militants in the district, as well as facilitates the purchase and movement of small arms and IEDs throughout Nangarhar prov.

BAMYAN PROVINCE -- In Kahmard district, a weapons cache was turned over to Afghan and CF as part of a local disarmament program, Nov. 10. The cache consisted of 2 107 mm rockets, 2 82 mm mortar rounds, and 2,600 rounds of heavy machine gun ammo.

GHAZNI PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban leader in Ghazni district, yesterday. The leader participates in direct-fire attacks against Afghan and CF in the district. A suspected insurgent aimed his weapon at a SecFor member, and was killed.

PAKTIYA PROVINCE -- In Zarghun Shahr district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Haqqani network leader, yesterday. The leader directs an insurgent cell in the district, and is responsible for numerous direct-fire and rocket attacks against Afghan and coalition SecFor in the region.
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IRAQI STORY:

DVIDS

Air Force Bids Farewell to Ali Air Base

Story and photos by Pvt. Andrew Slovensky



AF Maj. Gen. Anthony Rock, Iraqi Training and Advisory Mission – Air director, speaks with Scott Hosking, technical supervisor for Lockheed Martin, at COB Adder, Nov. 5.  During his visit, Rock took a tour of the radar facility, built for the IqAF by Lockheed Martin and the USACE.

CONTINGENY OPERATING BASE ADDER – Service members are redeploying from Iraq in a historic drawdown of U.S. forces.  Airmen of the Iraqi Training and Advisory Mission (ITAM) – Air must prepare to tell their Iraqi counterparts, 'farewell.' When U.S. troops turn over COB Adder, it will become an IqAF post, Imam Ali Air Base.

The airmen of ITAM-A responsibilities are training the IqAF and army aviation command, to prepare them for the departure of U.S. troops. “We’re honored to have had that opportunity to work with the IqAF and army aviation command,” said Rock.

Rock said that the mission was to train the Iraqi airmen and soldiers in more than just operating and maintaining the aircraft. “It’s about producing power, making sure your medics are ready to take care of your airmen, making sure your runway is taken care of, making sure you can see your airspace through radar control,” said Rock.

Now that the mission is coming to a close, the Iraqis will take on the responsibility of 6 bases; Taji, Kirkut, Tikrit, Balad, al-Asad, and Imam Ali Air Bases will be transferred to the IqAF and army air command, said Rock. “When you think about all of those facilities, all of those runway surfaces, all of those buildings, all of that equipment that is being processed back to the IqAF and army aviation command,” he said, “it’s a lot to take on for a small org.”

"The Iraqi forces are ready for the challenge," said Rock. “We’ve seen a great amount of progress,” said Rock. “The 300 air advisors that I led as part of ITAM-Air were really just the capstone on thousands that have come before us in the 7 years we’ve been at this.”

"In addition to a new state-of-the-art radar facility, Imam Ali Air Base will be the home of a squadron of F-16 military fighter jets, purchased by the GoA from the U.S.," said Iraqi Brig. Gen. Hakeem, Imam Ali Air Base cmdr. He added that by the end of the year, his wing will take full responsibility for the base.

Hakeem said that he appreciates the sacrifice U.S. service members and their families made during deployments to Iraq. “The Americans every time surprise me with support for the IqAF,” he said. “I say thank you, thank you for all the families in the U.S.”

Rock said he has high hopes for the future of Iraqi airmen. “My big dream is that someday I will see an Iraqi F-16 on the ramp at Nellis AF Base, and there'll be an Iraqi mechanic working on that Iraqi F-16,” said Rock. “Out will walk an Iraqi fighter pilot, and he, or perhaps even she, someday, will crawl into the cockpit and go fly their first sortie at the Red Flag exercise on Nellis AF Base.”

When U.S. forces leave Iraq, COB Adder and bases like it are turning over to Iraqi SecFor. The airmen of ITAM-A will leave the nest, and Imam Ali Air Base will become a strategic post to help the Iraqi airmen and soldiers defend their airspace and sovereignty.



Iraqi airmen salute Iraqi Brig. Gen. Hakeem and AF Maj. Gen. Anthony Rock, upon their arrival at the Ali Air Base HQ.



AF Maj. Gen. Anthony Rock and Iraqi Brig. Gen. Hakeem exchange greetings at the Ali Air Base HQ.

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Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/11-13-11

Dear Interested Reader,
Nov. 11:  'Today we remember.'  EOD tech loves his job at COP Talukan.  Marines join U.K. partners for Remembrance Day ceremony.  CF mark Remembrance Day at New Kabul compound.  'America's Bn.' celebrates 236th Marine Corps birthday.
Iraq:  Ironhorse recognizes sacrifices of Soldiers at COS Echo.
Joanna
_______________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

DVIDS

Nov. 11: ‘Today We Remember’

NATO Training Mission Afghanistan

A Canadian service member, places a red poppy flower on a wreath in honor of Remembrance Day at Camp Eggers, Kabul. More than 200 military and civilian members, assigned to NATO Training Mission (NTM) - Afghanistan gathered to pay tribute to those who lost their lives in the line of duty.

KABUL – Nov. 11 marks a significant point in history honored as Veterans Day in America, and Remembrance Day for the Commonwealth and other European countries. During the ceremony, personnel honored those who lost their lives, with a moment of silence before placing a wreath at the foot of each country involved in World War I. The poem “In Flanders Field,” written by Canadian physician John McRae, was read and illustrated the significance of bravery.

“We don’t remember the bombast or the propaganda, or the neatly marked maps of the generals, or the treaties signed by the diplomats. We remember the heroism of those who served selflessly for others,” said Guest Speaker NTM-A Cmdr. Lt. Gen. Daniel Bolger.

Bolger went on to emphasize the importance of each service member’s decision to serve – both past and present. “This was the first time that I've had the opportunity to stand side-by-side with so many service members from other countries,” said AF Tech. Sgt. Christopher Craig. “I was inspired by the fact that, in the past, we were at war with some of these countries, and now we stand here serving together. It gives me hope for the future. The ceremony also gave me a chance to think about all of those who came before me, especially my grandfather who served in 3 wars.”

On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918, the armistice to end World War I was signed. Today, Remembrance and Veterans Day offers a time each year to offer thanks to veterans, and for service members to reflect on their service to the nation.

“To the end, men and some women stood and fought … for king, for country, but mostly for each other.  Because, when it comes right down to it, soldiers fight and die for each other - for their mates. That is real courage, and its worthy of remembrance. So today, we remember,” said Bolger.



Coalition service members stand during the Remembrance Day ceremony.



U.S. and coalition service members salute during the Remembrance Day ceremony
.
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Blackanthem Military News

EOD Tech Loves his Job at COP Talukan

Story and photos by Staff Sgt. Lindsey Kibler



Asked to pose for a picture, AF Staff Sgt. Brandon Chism, explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) tech with the 466th Air Expeditionary Sqdn, gave a toothy grin. "That smile shows his whole personality. He's a ham," said Chism's team leader, AF Staff Sgt. James "Fitz" Fitzgerald, 466th AES. Chism's team serves under the 1st Stryker BCT, 25th ID, and is responsible for clearing IEDs around COP Talukan, in southern Afghanistan.

COMBAT OUTPOST TALUKAN -- If you ask AF Staff Sgt. Brandon Chism how he likes his job, he'll jokingly tell you "it's a blast!"  The Ga., native joined the AF in 2004 as a missile maintainer, but his heart was always in EOD. "I've always wanted to be EOD, but after joining the AF they told me I couldn‟t change my job, because I was already locked into another job. I just had to wait," he explained.

After his initial contract was up in 2009, he was allowed to change jobs and he joined EOD. After a year of technical training at Eglin AF Base in Florida, Chism emerged an EOD tech. "I was ready to do this, but I knew that outside of school there was still a lot I had to learn. I'm a staff sgt., but I lacked the field experience most techs at my rank already had," said Chism.

Soon enough he would get his chance. In late 2011, Chism deployed for the first time and found himself part of a 3-man EOD team with the 466th AES. COP Talukan is located in southern Afghanistan's Kandahar prov., a hotbed for IEDs.
Chism's team has recently started training their counterparts with the Afghan National Civil Order Police (NCOP). "We're  working on certifying them, so they have the proficiency to do this on their own without hurting themselves," he explained.

In order to certify them, his team works closely with the ANCOP, providing training at least once a week using a training area on the COP. The area resembles the type of terrain that would be seen on missions, and is laden with mock IEDs. The goal is for the ANCOP EOD techs to walk the area using their tools to detect, mark and disarm all explosives they find.  Recently, Chism has begun taking the lead on training the ANCOP. "Every day is a chance to learn," Chism said, "which is essential in such a technical career field."

"The goal is turn all of the training over to Chism, because he has done so great with it," said AF Staff Sgt. James "Fitz" Fitzgerald, EOD team leader. "He's highly motivated and has been an open sleeve for info - he takes everything in, but still asks those 'how' and 'why' questions, which is important for a tech to do."

"It's not as bad as it seems, but I can't wait to get home. As soon as I do, I'm definitely going to have some cheeseburgers. It's all about cheeseburgers," he joked. After months of handling IEDs, he certainly deserves those cheeseburgers.



AF Staff Sgt. Brandon Chism talks with and mentors ANCOP Sgt. Nasrullah Sharif, also an EOD tech, Oct. 23.


 
Capt. John Oliver (right), cmdr. of Co A, 3rd Bn, 21st Inf Regt, 1st Stryker BCT, 25th ID, places the 25th ID patch on the right shoulder of AF Staff Sgt. Brandon Chism, Oct. 23. The wearing of the "combat patch" is an Army tradition, and awarded to those directly serving in combat with a specific unit. Although the AF doesn't carry this tradition, Oliver said he wanted to present Chism with the patch, because "he's part of the family."

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Marines Join UK Partners for Remembrance Day Ceremony

Story and photos by Cpl. Meredith Brown



The memorial at Camp Bastion, Helmand prov., honors British service members killed in action during OEF.  A ceremony honoring the U.K. national holiday, Remembrance Day, was held, Nov. 11 honoring all those who have given their lives, during conflicts beginning with World War I.

CAMP BASTION –  “This is our annual event to remember all the fallen soldiers, comrades, from the Great World War I all the way up to the recent conflicts,” said WO1 Darren Edkins, Garrison sgt. maj. for Camp Bastion. A 2-minute moment of silence was held in remembrance of the roughly 20 million people who died in World War I, and for those who have died in following conflicts.

Wreaths were also placed at a memorial at the center of the formation, by distinguished guests, including new UK Secretary of State for Defence, the Right Honorable Phillip Hammond. For many of the troops in formation, the setting of the ceremony kept the significance of the occasion fresh.

“Being out here brings it a little more to home, and because only last week we were here in this same spot at a service remembering our fallen comrade who was killed in action last week,” said Edkins. “So, to actually come together again this week, on this day, at this time to do the same, it just makes you think about a lot more, because actually being out here, we're actually remembering people that we ourselves, within our own units right now, that have actually fallen in battle.”

“It's very significant for me because I have thoroughly enjoyed the partnership that I’ve had, especially with the British chaplains here at Bastion," said Capt. Steve Brown, chaplain for RC- SW. “I’m happy to be a part of a ceremony honoring their war dead. It made me proud to be a part of it.”



(From left to right): Right Honorable Phillip Hammond, Secretary of State for Defense, Amb. Simon Gass, NATO Senior Civilian Rep in Afghanistan, Catherine Royle, Charge’ d’Affaires for the British Embassy in Kabul, and top officials from each British branch of service lay wreaths at the base of the memorial.

After a Remembrance Day ceremony, different units in attendance laid wreaths to remember the fallen.

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Coalition Forces Mark Remembrance Day at New Kabul Compound

Story and photos by Erika Stetson

Navy Lt. Debra Fredricks, a nurse with the Canadian Health Services Advisory Team at the New Kabul Compound, participates with dozens of U.S., Canadian and Greek troops, gathered for a Canadian-led Remembrance Day ceremony at the facility, Nov. 11.

KABUL – The ceremony is an international observance that honors fallen military members, similar to Veterans Day in the U.S. “This is a solemn day,” said Canadian navy Capt. Rebecca Patterson, the compound’s senior Canadian health services adviser. “It’s a true act of remembrance.”

About 15 Canadians, 20 Americans and a dozen Greek troops participated. They included, along with Patterson; Army Maj. Gen. William Rapp, Deputy Cmdr.-Support for U.S. Forces-Afghanistan; and the org.’s top enlisted official, Command Sgt. Maj. Ronnie Curry.

The ceremony included a minute of silence, a reading from the poem “In Flanders Field,” a wreath laying, and the playing of the Canadian national anthem and the Royal Anthem. Patterson called the event a way to link the sacrifices of the past with present missions and future goals. “We’re willing to sacrifice for freedom because it’s that important,” she said.



Army Maj. Gen. William Rapp and Command Sgt. Maj. Ronnie Curry participate.



Warrant Officer Terry Auld, acting sgt. maj., and Navy Capt. Rebecca Patterson, the team's senior advisor, carry a wreath.

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‘America’s Battalion’ celebrates 236th Marine Corps Birthday

Story and photos by Cpl. Reece Lodder

The commanding officers and sgts. maj. of 1st Bn, 3rd Marine Regt, and 3rd Bn, 3rd Marine Regt., serve birthday cake to their Marines and sailors, while celebrating the Marine Corps' 236th birthday, Nov. 10. The bns. celebrated the birthday together, following the recent arrival of "America's Battalion" in Garmsir.

GARMSIR DISTRICT, Helmand province — For the second year in a row, “America’s Battalion” celebrated the Marine Corps birthday in Helmand prov. Within the confines of COPs and PBs, they celebrated their 236th birthday in camouflage utilities. Though their attire was less formal than the iconic dress blue and white uniforms, they wore to an early birthday ball in Waikiki, Hawaii, Oct. 7, honoring their heritage in combat, afforded the battalion perspective for the months ahead.

Lt. Col. Matthew Palma, 3/3’s commanding officer, said the birthday celebration allowed “America’s Battalion” to remember the sacrifices of previous generations of Marines, and realize the commitment now required of them. “We’re ready to take Garmsir to the final step of transition back to ANSF, and to bring Afghanistan one step closer to accepting responsibility for its own security and future,” Palma said.

At the bn. HQ, Sgt. Thomas Settle, Jump Plt sgt., HSC, 3/3, and other Marines were wished a happy birthday with a steak and lobster dinner. They topped off the festivities with a cake cutting ceremony, hosted by 1/3 and attended by both bns. “Celebrating our birthday at the beginning of this deployment is a boost of morale and motivation, before starting our job in Garmsir,” said Settle, 29, from Va. “It’s our turn to make a difference now.”

Settle, the recipient of 2 Purple Hearts, is on his 3rd combat deployment. This deployment is the 3rd for his 5-year-old daughter and the 1st for his 2-year-old son. He said that milestones like the birthday help keep him focused, which is essential for enduring the long separation from his family. Despite the hardship, he stands resolute in the knowledge that his efforts far from home are making a difference.

“When this country is running on its own, we’ll look back and know we contributed to its success,” Settle said. “My kids will come back from school and say, ‘Daddy, I learned about what you did in Afghanistan at school today.’”



Marine Sgt. Maj. Dwight Jones, 1st Bn, 3rd Marine Regt sgt. maj. from Ill., and a formation of Marines and sailors from 1/3 and 3rd Bn, 3rd Marine Regt, watch the Commandant of the Marine Corps’ birthday message, while celebrating the Marine Corps’ 236th birthday.

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Ironhorse Recognize Sacrifices of Soldiers

Story by Spc. Bailey Jester

COS ECHO – To some, Nov. 11 is just another day; but, to 24.9 million American veterans and families it holds a much stronger meaning. “We spend today remembering the soldiers through the centuries who have come together to fight for a common cause,” said the command sgt. maj. of the 1st Bn, 82nd FAR, 1st Bde, 1st Cav Div, Command Sgt. Maj. Jim Cabrera. “They’ve defended America when our borders, our people, and our way of life have been threatened.”

“All over the nation today, Americans are gathering together to remember and pay tribute to our veterans,” Cabrera added. “It’s because of men and women like you that we can wake up each morning on free land. Today we honor our veterans.”

Although Ironhorse Soldiers are unable to spend this Veteran’s Day with their families and loved ones, they took the time to honor all veterans, with the ‘family’ they made here. “Today is a special day of remembrance – a day first dedicated to the memory of the loved and lost as Armistice Day in 1919,” began the cmdr. of the Dragon Bn., Lt. Col. Edmond Brown. “So on this special day, while in contact with the enemy on foreign soil in the defense of freedom, we assemble together.”

Soldiers not only go above and beyond the call of duty, but so do families. “Whenever troops have been called to action and deployed in support of a mission, they leave behind their spouses, children, parents and all of their loved ones,” Cabrera continued.

Despite the adversity facing our veterans today, they will always have the support of their nation. “God bless the nation’s veterans all around the world. And God bless the USA – where, because of our soldiers today, and the veteran soldiers of yesterday – we are still:  the land of the free…home of the brave,” Cabrera concluded.

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Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/11-12-11

Dear Interested Reader,
Kansas farmer finds niche in rural Laghman.  Weapons surrender marks end of violent land dispute.  Veterans' Day is special for Soldiers at FOB Frontenac.  Combined forces capture Taliban leader.  ISAF Joint Comand operational update, Nov. 10 2011.
Iraq:  Navajo Soldiers:  "Here for our country."
Joanna
_________________________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Kansas Farmer Finds Niche in Rural Laghman

Written by Army Capt. Wes Topel

Chief Warrant Officer 2 Mark Baxa, of Kan., surveys local markets and talks to the population, in order to get a feel for the needs of the community, and plan projects that will make a lasting impact on the residents of Mehtar Lam. (Army photo by 1st Lt. Kathleen Argonza-Pangburn, Kansas ADT)

LAGHMAN PROVINCE — Looking to the symbol of the National Guard, we see a Revolutionary War Soldier, musket in hand, standing beside a farm plow. Several states, including Kansas, have recognized the wealth of Guardsmen with deep roots in farming or civilian occupations in the agri-sciences.
At age 54, Chief Warrant Officer 2 Mark Baxa, may be the oldest member of the Kansas ADT, but his constant energy level and determination to share his expertise with the people of Afghanistan, keeps him very young at heart.
 
Growing up in the rural community of Randall, Kan., Baxa  has been involved in some level of farming all his life, and worked for many years on his brother-in-law’s family farm. This experience allows Baxa to apply a half century worth of farming knowledge to share with farmers of Afghanistan.
  
Serving as the team’s hydrologist, his knowledge of proper irrigation, water conservation and land mgt., is essential to the work the team hopes to accomplish with local farmers. Baxa believes in the ADT mission and fully enjoys working with Afghan farmers to reinforce techniques that will lead to better crop production, and in turn, better lives for the people of Afghanistan. He focuses his work on specialized micro-grants, small monetary awards provided directly to the farmer.  Baxa views the potential of the micro-grants as an avenue through which “young farmers’ dreams may come true.”

“You can live your dreams,” Baxa said, suming up his philosphy on life, "by simply stating, 'I truly have enjoyed life.'  I’ll go until the Army says, that we do not need you anymore, or until my wife says, that's enough.”

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Weapons Surrender Marks End of Violent Land Dispute

By Combined Joint Task Force 1 - Afghanistan



Nangarhar Deputy Gov. Gerdiwald stands beside Army Lt. Col. Jerry Turner, cmdr. for the 3rd Sqdn., 4th Cav Bn, 3rd BCT, 25th ID, TF Bronco, to discuss issues with local tribal elders as part of a weapon turn in ceremony, Nov. 9.

Malik Nazir, the Nangarhar peace Jirga chief, speaks on reconciliation and peacefully moving forward, during a weapons turn-in ceremony. The Sepal tribe relinquished their weapons as a sign of peace after years of violent land dispute with a neighboring tribe.

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Veterans' Day is Special for Soldiers at FOB Frontenac

Story by Sgt. Thomas Duval

A newly married Jason Harris, shows off his Army dress uniform at his wedding. Harris is following in his father’s footsteps, and is an Iraqi and Afghan veteran, assigned as a cavalry scout to the 5th Sqdn, 1st Cav Regt, 1st Stryker BCT, 25th ID.

FORWARD OPERATING BASE FRONTENAC -- Growing up in Westwood, Calif., Army Spc. Riley Miller, 21, enjoyed playing chess, loved reading, and never thought twice about raising his right hand to join the military. For Miller, the closest he ever came to understanding the military growing up, was through the stories his grandparents told him on rare occasions. “When I think about Veterans Day, I always think back to my grand dad and how he would become quiet,” Miller said. “I knew I would never know what he went through, so I just gave him space and respect.” Miller is an info tech specialist.

Thousands of miles away and on the opposite side of the U.S. in Ala., Spc. Jason Harris, 24, a cavalry scout, spent most of his holidays clinging to pictures of his dad. Unlike Miller, Harris enjoyed sports and excelled at school when he could. Because Jason’s dad was in the 5th Special Forces Group from Fort Campbell, Ky., he didn’t get to spend a lot of time in one place. Like many ‘Army brats’ the demands of everyday life were made a reality early. For Harris, Veterans Day, was a holiday chalked up to his dad being gone, and although he missed his dad he said he grew to understand why he chose to serve. “I was always proud of my dad, and Veterans Day took on a special meaning for me,” Harris said. “He’s the reason I joined, and the reason I will continue to serve.”

On paper the 2 are complete opposites with completely different backgrounds, and different ways of remembering past Veterans Days. However, as the upcoming holiday approaches and Americans all over the world celebrate the sacrifices of all the men and women serving in the military, both past and present, the loner from Westwood High School, and the popular southern boy have found themselves sharing one thing; they're both part of the many service members who can call themselves vets.

The 2 are both soldiers deployed with the 5th Sqdn. “I've a better understanding than I did before,’ Miller said. “Although what I'm doing is nothing compared to what my grand dad went through; I feel like maybe in a small way I know why the holiday meant so much to him.”

"When you look at all the veterans," Harris said, “there’s nothing that distinguishes them from everyone else. It’s just an internal drive to do something not many people can do.  When you go to war your past is thrown out the window,” Harris said. “Your priorities become the safety of your battle buddy, and how you were raised doesn’t matter anymore.”

They both agree that being veterans holds a very special meaning that only other veterans understand. “It’s great to be honored, but at the same time I didn’t join for celebrations and the parades,” Harris said. “It’s special to be included in a group of people that includes grandparents and other family members throughout the years.”

“I’m proud to represent my family and serve,” Miller said. The two have embraced the bond that they'll forever share, and have made a promise to themselves, to focus on the sacrifices made by those who came before them.  For Miller it’s for the solemn grandfather, while for Harris it’s for the loving and caring father who fought to raise a son who would become a young soldier.



Spc. Riley Miller poses for a picture after coming off of a mission in southern Kandahar.

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Blackanthem Military News

Combined Force Captures Taliban Leader

By Army Staff Sgt. Luke Graziani

LAGHMAN PROVINCE - Afghan and CF captured Bari Ali, a mid-level Taliban leader, during a cordon and search op, Nov. 3. The ANA used loudspeakers and a pre-written script to call out Ali, in an effort to have him surrender to CF willingly. Ali and two other individuals, one of which was identified as his brother, Roshan Zilmai, surrendered to CF without incident.

Ali is known to command Taliban fighters in conflicts with CF. The capture of Ali is expected to sever the lines of communication between senior level Taliban and low-level insurgents. The ANA confiscated weapons, hand grenades, tactical fighting gear, and multiple cell phones during the search.

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ISAF Joint Command Operational Update, Nov. 10, 2011

ISAF Joint Command

South

KANDAHAR PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and CF detained an insurgent leader and several additional insurgents, during a security op in Kandahar district, Nov. 7. The leader was responsible for planning IED attacks and distributing weapons to insurgents.

----- In Maiwand district, a combined Afghan and CF discovered a drug cache, during a routine op, yesterday. The cache consisted of 500-lbs (227 kgs) of poppy seeds.

HELMAND PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor patrol discovered a weapons cache in Marjeh district, today. The cache consisted of 2,640-lbs (1,200 kgs) of ammonium nitrate.

East

PARWAN PROVINCE -- In Bagram district, a coalition SecFor discovered a cache of unexploded ordinance, while on patrol Nov 8. The cache consisted of 3 105mm projectiles, an anti-personnel mine, and a 62mm mortar round.

GHAZNI PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor patrol discovered a weapons cache in Deh Yak district, today. The cache consisted of 7 mortars, a 40mm high-explosive round, a stick grenade, and a pressure plate.

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Navajo Soldiers: Here for Our Country

Story by Spc. Bailey Jester
CONTINGENCY OPERATING SITE KALSU – In order to honor those with a Native American background, Pres. George H.W. Bush, the 41st pres. of the USA, declared Nov., National American Indian Heritage Month. “My background means a great deal to me,” Ariz. native, Sgt. Larrison Manygoats, said about his Navajo heritage. “It goes back so far; it just means so much to so many people.”

November’s focus is to provide a stage for Native Americans to share their culture, traditions, music, crafts, dance, ways and concepts of life. “I'm unable to dance in as many ceremonies as I would like to, due to the distance and limited amount of leave availability,” said N.M., native, Pfc. Shawn Begay, a medic assigned to Co C, 115th BSB, 1st Bde, 1st Cav Div. “Practices start about 2 weeks before the ceremony, and it isn’t always certain when I'll be home,” Begay added.

With such a wealthy history, many Native Americans know an extensive amount of their heritage, to include their native tongue, dances and chants. “My father and I fluently speak Navajo, along with the older people. The younger ones know little bit here and there, but not as much,” said Manygoats, a truck driver assigned to Co A of the Muleskinner Bn.

A common greeting a Navajo man would welcome you with would be, “Ya’ateeh,” meaning everything is good. Although not everyone has a fluent knowledge of the language, it doesn’t prevent the younger generation from enjoying the dances and chants. “I love to learn and perform the traditional chants,” 19-year-old Begay said. “I also enjoy wearing the traditional clothing when appropriate.”

Not only does traditional dances and chants fall within the customs of the Navajo people, but also ‘lucky charms,’ which Begay carries with him. “My family always told me I was my own good luck charm,” Begay chuckled, “because I was tall and had long feet like a rabbit.”

Although they are a generation apart, they both are proud of their heritage and where they ended up. "I came to fight for the country. I'm not here to gain anything, just to get the war over,” Manygoats said about his deployment and military service. “As the Navajo treaty states, ‘We are for the people. We are for Mother Earth, and we carry on the tradition.’”

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Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/11-11-11

Dear Interested Reader,
We honor and give thanks to all our Veterans, who have served our great country, and remember those who gave their all.  Today's vets have stories to tell:  Nawa Victory Walk - Day 2.  Marine partnership brings progress to Garmsir.  Marine Corps sqdrn. flies last tour with Vietnam-era helicopter.  Range time for Laghman PRT bonds teammates.  Signal Soldier helps others stay connected on FOB Andar.
Iraq:  Soldiers enjoy desert fishing at COB Adder.
Joanna
________________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

DVIDS

Nawa Victory Walk - Day 2

Story and photos by Cpl. Jeff Drew

District Gov. Manaf (left) and Wash. native Lt. Col. Tyler Zagurski, the bn. cmdr. for 1st Bn, 9th Marine Regt, enjoy a light evening meal, outside of Patrol Base Jaker. An interpreter sits with them to help facilitate conversation.

Editor’s note: This is the 2nd installment in a 4-part series chronicling a trek across Nawa district called the Nawa Victory Walk, a 4-day, 30-mile patrol by U.S. Marines and ANA soldiers.

NAWA DISTRICT, Helmand province – Sunlight crept silently through the windows lining the walls of the Loy Kolay precinct, an ANA security outpost, as the Marines and sailors awoke, each nudging the soundly sleeping service member next to him. Their legs sore from the previous day’s hike of more than 14 kms., their shoulders strained from the weight of their body armor, the service members of 1st Bn, prepared for another day of patrolling across the district with their Afghan counterparts.

The patrol joined Afghan Lt. Col. Ahmad, comm. officer of 1st Kandak (Bn), 1st Bde, 215th Corps, and Marine Lt. Col. Tyler Zagurski. The patrol demonstrated the safety and security achieved in the area, and allowed the leaders to speak with local residents and key leaders, assessing problems and celebrating successes along the way. The second day of the Nawa Victory Walk would be a proposed 12 kms.

The day began with a groundbreaking ceremony for the Hayanak Health Clinic, outside the gates of the precinct. The Marines and Afghan soldiers joined together to provide security during the ceremony. “The building of the health clinic is one of the many reasons Nawa is ready for transition,” said Zagurski.

The day’s patrol began after the ceremony concluded, and officials ate an early lunch at the Loy Kolay precinct. The ANA soldiers and Marines patrolled 5 kms to their first stop at Patrol Base Wrightsman. The road along the way held many conversations with local police patrolmen and area residents.

“One of the successes of our patrol is to see the local residents of Nawa accept ANSF leadership,” said Zagurski. “As Marines take a step back in security responsibilities, we’ve seen a strong bond between the local population, ANSF and GoA leadership, which is one of the key indicators that they're ready for transition.”

The patrolling party continued along a deep canal, past corn fields and distant mud compounds. Children ran to the advancing group in wonder, greeting the combined forces. “The people have been waving all day at us,” mentioned Colo. native Seaman Ian White, a corpsman with 1/9.

The troupe made its 2nd stop at PB Sopar Dostan, 9 kms into the day’s patrol. Afghan Local Police (ALP) offered chai tea, and were very welcoming to the visiting soldiers and Marines. After a quick repose from the rigorous patrolling, the Afghan and American security detachments were on their feet ready to finish the day with a final 3-km movement.

It was a short patrol, yet it took the troops from cornfields as far as the eye could see and sparse mud compounds, to a bustling marketplace. The town of Khalaj, comprised of many closely knit, single-story buildings, enveloped the patrolling group. Motorbikes and bicycles raced between stands filled with fruit, and intricately-woven cloth for sale. Eyes turned toward the ANSF–led patrol as it moved through the town, and many local residents gathered to speak to the advancing party.

PB Jaker stood on the far side of the town. The patrol made its way to the entrance and filed in through the gates. ‘Doc' White was on them within moments, checking their feet and making sure everyone was in good health to continue the patrol through the Nawa district the next few days.

In the evening, when little more than moonlight lit the base’s walkways, the district gov. hosted a dinner for several of the visiting Marines. Chicken, rice and bread graced the plates of those in attendance, and Zagurski, accompanied by the kandak cmdr., spoke with the gov. on the day’s successes and the needs of Nawa.

“Education and the rule of law are the most important thing for the community,” said Manaf, his hands passionately gesturing in the air. “We have to be able to serve justice by having good prosecutors and legislators. Overall, the men and women of Nawa are happy.”    

Seaman Ian White, corpsman, provides security during a groundbreaking ceremony for a local health clinic.



District Gov. Manaf (left) holds the ceremonial ribbon for the groundbreaking of a health clinic, outside the Loy Kolay precinct, an ANA security outpost.



Troops cross a footbridge outside of the Loy Kolay precinct. The combined SecFor demonstrate the strides in security the GoA has made.



Troops patrol past an ornately decorated grave.

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Afghan, Marine Partnership Brings Progress to Garmsir

Story and photos by Cpl. Colby Brown

Marines from 1st Bn, 3rd Marine Regt, greet a local man recently released from custody, under a pending investigation, Nov. 2. The bn. staff escorted him to the district center, and were in-turn invited on a walk around the local bazaar and to stay for dinner. The work the bn. has done to build relationships with govt officials and local residents, has ultimately helped build Garmsir into one to the most secure districts in Helmand prov.

GAMRSIR DISTRICT -- Walking down the street of a local bazaar, without a flak jacket or Kevlar seemed a little risky. I hustled past the group of local Afghan govt officials, took a knee and snapped another photo. A local man involved in a pending investigation was released from custody, and the district leaders wanted to celebrate his return.

A little more than 3 years ago the same bazaar was considered "hot," with daily mortar explosions and small arms fire; thus the anxious feeling when walking around "slick," or with no body armor. “In 2008, the Hazar Joft bazaar was a haven for insurgents,” said Lt. Col. Sean Riordan, bn. cmdr. of 1/3, and a native of Va.

“The walk through was important as a demonstration of the progress,” Riordan added. “Now, you can walk through at night and it’s just a normal, sleepy, country Afghan town. You could have never have done that before, even a year ago.”

The dinner meal featured staples of the local cuisine – pomegranates, lamb, chicken, rice and bread. The food was delicious and fresh, unlike generic military rations. We stayed at the district center another hour and returned to base well past dusk.

“My role as the bn. cmdr. with senior reps of the Afghan govt, local leaders, and tribal leaders in Garmsir is unique,” Riordan said. “Where they may have very good relationships with other people, they’re focused heavily on the leaders and cmdrs. of Marine units, because we represent a rough equivalent to their tribal elder system. They know the points of influence are through guys like bn. cmdrs., company and platoon cmdrs.

“That’s why I walk through the bazaars with no body armor,” Riordan added. “You’ve got to accept some level of risk, and you also need to be mindful that everything we do sends a signal. You hope it's sending the right signal to the people that things are returning to normal.”

“You need to have personal relationships across the whole district, with every aspect of the population. With elders, govt officials, key influencers who may not be in the govt, mullahs and businessmen … with everybody. You have to know them, and they have to know you. We maintain really good relationships with people we don’t trust, because we have to, regardless,” Riordan added. “This is a place where the old adage, ‘keep your friend close and keep your enemies closer,’ really applies.”

“What I've found over the course of 7 months, and being an advisor to 2 foreign armies for more than 3 years, is that you've got to have a mix of firmness and accommodation,” Riordan added. “I'm the anomaly; I'm the outsider, so I need to know when, where, and how to apply being firm and direct.  I've 1,300 Marines in the battle space with guns; I'm the strongest individual in the district, but I need to conduct myself appropriately so we continue to have good relationships.”

Garmsir has the most permanent school building projects in Helmand.  ANSF in the district are as prepared as any in Helmand to transition authority of security. Further evidence of infrastructure development can be found in bazaars across Garmsir, many with electric street lamps, and newly christened shops opening daily.
 
“My personal experience has been great,” Riordan said. “Any area of the district I go to, I know people and people know me. It’s not everybody, but I think that's a good example of the success the battalion has had. The way I do things as bn. cmdr., is not unlike the way I did things when I was an adviser… by, with and through Afghan counterparts,” Riordan added. “It’s being flexible enough to understand that their culture is stronger than the way I want to do business. You have to go with the local solution, and reinforce the local power brokers or local decision makers. Then, when you're patient, have good relationships, and you need to emphasize something or disagree with something, you do that from a position of being a friend.”

The atmosphere of personal and professional relationships with elders, district council members, and other local govt officials is dynamic. Often meetings, or shuras, last for hours. The language and cultural barrier make every aspect of communication that much more difficult.

Meeting local expectations of what Marine forces can provide, while pushing district leaders to independently provide for their people is also a challenge. However, during the past 7 months, the relationships made between Marines of 1/3 and the people of Garmsir have been instrumental in overcoming these difficulties.



Lt. Col. Sean Riordan speaks with National Directorate of Security, Provincial Director Nazar Ali, on a walk through a local bazaar.



Lt. Col. Riordan joins local men in greeting a local man recently released from custody.

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Marine Corps Squadron Flies Last Tour with Vietnam-era Helicopter

Story and photos by Cpl. Justin Boling



Cpl. Aaron Byard watches the Afghan landscape behind a .50-caliber machine gun mounted on the CH-53D Sea Stallion, Nov. 2.  Byard, native of Ohio, works as an aerial observer with Marine Heavy Helicopter Sqdn 363, currently deployed to Camp Bastion.

CAMP BASTION -- The CH-53D Sea Stallion has been serving the Marine Corps since the Vietnam War. Today, Marines still rely on this gray, school bus-sized helicopter. One of the last sqdns. to use them, MHHS 363, began flying the Sea Stallion in January 1969.  In Afghanistan, the sqdn. flies these aircraft with 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd).

“It's a good aircraft that has performed very well,” said Lt. Col. Mark Revor, the comm. officer of MHHS 363. “Our mission out here is assault support,” added Revor, from Minn. “Our aircraft support the movement of equipment, cargo and combat troops throughout the battlefield.”

"Many of the CH-53D Sea Stallions flying Afghanistan today also flew in Vietnam," said Master Sgt. Jason Vernam. Vernam, from Va., said he has 15 years experience in the CH-53D Sea Stallion community, and is currently serving as an advisor for 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd)’s maintenance ops.

“There's nothing that out flies it,” said GnySgt. Travis Riddick, the sqdn’s quality assurance chief, and a CH-53D Sea Stallion crew chief. “For everything the Marine Corps has put into this helicopter, we've gotten ten times out of it.”

“As a conventional helicopter, its mission is well suited for this environment,” said Revor. “The short leg flights to lots of FOBs, carrying a fair amount of cargo is no problem with the engines on this thing. It's still a 40-year-old airframe though, and I've had a lot of good memories flying it,” said Revor. “But, it's about time for me to move on to a more modern aircraft.”

The Marine Corps is phasing out the aging CH-53D platform. Some Sea Stallion sqdns. will begin flying the newer, more powerful CH-53E Super Stallion, while others will transfer to the MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft. “Knowing this is our last deployment with our aircraft, and as a sqdn, gives it a historical perspective,” said Revor. “We're working hard regardless if it's the first time or the last time we fly this aircraft.”

Cpl. Zach Hughes mans the .50-caliber machine gun mounted on the rear gate of a CH-53D Sea Stallion. Hughes, of Ohio, is a crew chief.

363 mechanics repair a CH-53 Sea Stallion on Camp Bastion, Nov. 1.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Range Time for Laghman PRT Bonds Teammates 

Story and photos by AF Capt. Tony Vincelli

AF Sr. Airman Lauren Russell, a communications specialist, fires the M2 .50 caliber machine gun, Nov. 7, near FOB Mehtar Lam, as Army Spc. Adam Supino looks on. Supino, a R.I. native with the R.I. N.G. works alongside Russell, as part of the Laghman PRT.

LAGHMAN PROVINCE — Known simply as Black Hills, the area just north of FOB Mehtar Lam is a frequent training site for U.S. forces.  Soldiers and Airmen assigned to the Laghman PRT had the chance to test their weapon system proficiency. “The 2-fold mission is to allow Soldiers to gain valuable trigger time, and Airmen to gain much-needed experience on new weapons system,” said Army Sgt. 1st Class Brian Lancey, of Conn. “If the PRT is about to conduct a mission to a higher threat area, a quick stop to Black Hills for a weapons function check is also common.”
This is  the first chance the Joint Expeditionary Tasking Airmen of Laghman PRT have fired a weapon, since combat skills training in May. Others are completely new. “Anyone can pull a trigger,” said Lancey. “In order to be proficient at a particular weapons system, Soldiers need to practice as often as possible. It's also important to allow AF personnel an opportunity to feel more comfortable with these weapons, should they ever need to use them.”

“It's a fairly relaxed atmosphere where Soldiers and Airmen can fire the weapons systems, without worrying about qualifying on the weapon,” said Lancey. “It also gives junior enlisted Soldiers an opportunity to teach their AF counterparts.” 

For AF Staff Sgt. Abner Cornell, of Fla., a supply specialist, getting to work closely with the Army, on his first deployment since joining the AF in 2006, has given him a unique perspective that comes with being an Airman. “Today helped me shift my mindset, and gave me the confidence to know that if I need to use any of these weapons in a real situation, I'm ready for all of it,” he said.

On her 3rd deployment and 2nd go-round with the Army, this is AF Sr. Airman Lauren Russell’s first time in a combat environment, where she was able to travel outside of the FOB. “It’s great to break out of the routine of office work that my job usually entails, and get out to gain confidence on these weapons,” said Russell. “It makes me feel like if I'm ever needed to fight, I won’t let my fellow Soldiers and Airmen down.”



Sgt. Lucas Simmons (left), a sniper from R.I., observes as AF Staff Sgt. Abner Cornell fires the M24 Sniper Rifle.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Signal Soldier Helps Others Stay Connected on FOB Andar

Story and photo by Army Staff Sgt. John Zumer

Spc. Luis Torres, a satellite communication systems operator from Texas, positions a satellite dish for maximum efficiency on FOB Andar, Nov. 4.

GHAZNI PROVINCE – Spc. Luis Torres enlisted less than 3 years ago, but he’s indispensible to fellow Soldiers.
“Everybody will say that lodging, chow and mail are the most important things about deployment, but if you don’t have internet they’re upset about it,” said Torres.
On his 1st deployment with 3rd BCT, 1st ID, TF Duke, he joined the Army for patriotic reasons, but enlisting in his late 30’s also provided additional motivation. “I joined the Army because I wanted to serve my country, and because I knew that I could maintain the standard as well as younger Soldiers,” he said.

He’s long been interested in signal technology, largely because of its importance in connecting all deployed units across theater. All phone and computer messages are combined into one signal before any message is sent elsewhere.

“He’s an outstanding Soldier. Torres is one of those Soldiers who are going to do a job until it’s done,” said Sgt. 1st Class Ebony Likely, from N.Y., Torres’ supervisor. Separated from his family has presented its challenges for Torres. Married for 16 years, the couple has 4 sons and 2 daughters. Despite the large family and joining the Army later than most, Torres is looking for more than just a taste of military life.

“I’m looking to make the Army a career,” he said.  Signal and technical proficiency aren’t his only skills. A jack of all trades in carpentry and maintenance, he’s frequently asked to pitch in. “Give him a task to do, and before you even get a chance to follow-up, it’s already done,” said Staff Sgt. Christopher Renau, from Va.

Recent special projects have included modernizing benches used in the Morale, Welfare and Recreation Center and building a new MWR satellite dish platform that will almost double the amount of internet stations available to Soldiers.
According to Likely, Torres sets a good example for the younger Soldiers, but his most valuable lesson to those under his supervision, may be how to deal with the day-to-day routine of a long deployment.

“Take each day as it comes and be aware of your surroundings,” said Torres. “Constantly stay busy, look for ways to improve your surroundings and yourself.”  When he gets together with friends, playing dominos, spades, and watching movies help to pass the time. No matter how many off-duty activities he participates in, however, "it’s easy to think about what’s really important," he said.

He looks forward to seeing his wife and kids at the end of the deployment, not to mention “a good home cooked meal.”  He’s grateful to the Family Readiness Group at Fort Knox for the help they’ve shown his family during the deployment.
A career in the Army, perhaps with an assignment to a strategic military signal location, showcasing his technical skills is his goal, not to mention a chance to join the ranks of NCOs.

It’s a career path that many who know him best say he’s well-suited for. “His leadership and the ability to get things done set him apart.  He’ll be a fine addition to the NCO Corps,” said Renau.

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IRAQI STORY:

DVIDS

Soldiers Enjoy Desert Fishing at COB Adder

Story and photos by Spc. Anthony Zane

Spc. Kenneth Russell, III, multi-channels transmission systems operator and maintainer, Bravo Co, 3rd BSTB, 1st Cav Div, from Mich., ties a lure to his fishing line on COB Adder, Nov. 6.

CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE ADDER – When soldiers in Iraq get some down time, fishing may not come to mind while considering a list of things to do, but the recreational activity is alive and well on COB Adder.

Thanks to one soldier’s efforts, service members on COB Adder have been able to cast lines in the middle of the desert, in hopes of catching some fish. Spc. Kenneth Russell, III, made it possible for soldiers to enjoy some fishing on deployment.

Russell has been involved in building soldier’s morale since before his deployment to Iraq. He has been involved with Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers (BOSS), a program designed by the U.S. Army, dedicated to boosting the morale and well being of single soldiers.

“I’m the Bravo Co. BOSS rep,” said Russell. “I did a lot of stuff back at Fort Hood for the soldiers, and I was trying to figure out what I could do to boost morale here.  I Googled the top 100 fishing companies in the U.S.,” said Russell. He contacted several of the companies through email, explaining that some of the soldiers here enjoy fishing, and asked if they were willing to donate some equipment.

The response Russell received to his emails was a success; "one company donated 11 fishing poles, another sent 15, and he received 3-1/2 cases of lures," he said.  However, in order for soldiers to fish, there needs to be a water source, and that water source is an artificial pond located a short distance from the soldier’s living area.

“It’s a man-made pond,” said Russell. “It’s called Z Pond, named after the Ziggurat.” While fishing at Z Pond, soldiers have a view of the Ziggurat of Ur located just outside the COB Adder perimeter. “There are a lot of weeds in the lake too, that makes it a good fishing hole,” said Russell. “There’s a sign out there that says, ‘No swimming. No diving. No rafts,’ basically nothing but fishing.”

Soldiers fish for the sport, but they don't eat the fish from Z Pond. “They’re like a weird version of bass,” said Russell. “I think they’re called Gar. They look like a combination between a Karp and Bass. Then there’s another type of fish; It’s called a Mangar. Those can get pretty big.”

Although Russell hasn’t caught any fish himself, some of his fellow soldiers have, and that has made it worth his efforts.
“I enjoy knowing that the soldiers can go out there, and have a little bit of down time,” he said. “They’ve enjoyed it a lot, and the greatest thing is it’s free.”

Russell’s unit is getting ready to go home soon and he already has plans for all the fishing equipment he received in theater. “They’re heading back to Fort Hood right now in a ‘conex’ for a 3rd BSTB fishing competition when we get back,” he said. “We’re going to try to organize a family fishing day for the soldiers when we get back.”



Spc. Brett Pittsley, command post node operator, from N.Y., fishes at Z Pond.

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Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/11-10-11

Dear Interested Troops,
U.S. troops bring 4-H program to Ghazni.  Kandahar supply depot issues weapons, collects insurgent weapons.  Wheat seed to Khost farmers will increase yields.  Law students perform well in Jalalabad court.  TF Spartan 3 mentor Afghan police in Kabul.
Iraq:  Heavy metal takes a ride to Kuwait.
Joanna
________________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

RC-East, Bagram Media Center

U.S. Troops Bring 4-H Program to Ghazni

Written by AF Master Sgt. J. Lavoie

Afghan officials from the Bokwal Boys' School review a sample of the curriculum provided by Army Sgt. Maj. Jeffrey Muckleroy, an agriculture education teacher from Texas. (Photo by Army 1st Lt. Rebekah Frost, Ghazni ADT PAO)

GHAZNI PROVINCE — In an effort to improve local agricultural learning, as well as share lessons from their own childhood, Soldiers with the Texas Army N.G. Ghazni ADT planted the seeds for an Afghan 4-H program.

According to the 4-H web site, in the U.S., “the 4-H idea is simple:  help young people and their families gain the skills they need to be proactive forces in their communities, and develop ideas for a more innovative economy.” The program started as a way to teach entire families better and more efficient ways of gardening and farming.

“The end goal to for the students, parents and teachers to have a better understanding of agriculture, and have collective learning and activities among families,” said Sgt. Maj. Jeffrey Muckleroy. “The children will learn gardening at a young age, and so learn better ways of agriculture, and will use these methods in the future. The parents will learn these techniques by teaching the children and each other. Also, they may see new ways of doing things, and learn better practices from other parents, teachers and their students.”

In the end, a more agriculturally educated community uses their resources to grow food for themselves.

“Even though the students receive some agriculture training from their families, due to the decades of war in Afghanistan, a lot of the knowledge of best practices have been lost," said 1st Lt. Rebekah Frost, a large animal specialist, from Texas. “It's been estimated by multiple orgs., that Afghanistan is only producing half of its potential agricultural products. We're hoping to turn that around.”

When the program was created in the U.S., in the 1800s, the 4-H had many of the same goals. At the time, America was going through the “dust bowl,” and American farmers we’re not producing produce efficiently.

During the late 1800's, researchers at public universities saw that adults in the farming community did not readily accept new agricultural discoveries. Researchers found that young people were open to new thinking, would "experiment" with new ideas, and share their experiences and successes with adults. Rural youth programs became a novel way to introduce emerging agriculture technology to their communities.

Although this program started as several local clubs in the U.S, Ghazni residents have the advantage of Soldiers with 4-H experience guiding and helping the program.  Because of this, the program will be much more advanced than any 4-H elsewhere.

“The students will have both a classroom portion, where we're integrating current agriculture textbooks, with additional pamphlets and books in biology, animal anatomy and physiology, chemistry, and agriculture best practices,” said Frost. “Additionally, they'll have a practical application where the students will grow a garden, learning pruning, fertilization, and irrigation techniques.  The students will also use the plants in the garden to identify the basic plant parts throughout the different stages of growth, allowing them to see first-hand what they're learning in the classroom.”

However, according to Muckleroy, the 4-H program can teach much more. “I'm a strong supporter of 4-H, because I was part of it from the 5th grade until graduation.  I visited many places in the state and the country because of it, and met many lifelong friends through it,” he said. “Because of 4-H, I received awards and suffered through hardships that taught me life skills I still use today.”

With the help of the Texas ADT, hopefully, the 3,400 girls and 5,000 boys at the Bokwal Boys and Girls' School will not only learn to improve the agricultural production of their community, but life lessons that will make their future brighter.

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DVIDS

Kandahar Supply Depot Issues Weapons, Collects Insurgent Weapons

Story and photos by Master Sgt. Paul Hughes

Lt. Gen. Dan Bolger (second from left), then-incoming comm. gen., NATO Training Mission-Afghanistan/Combined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan, examines a trailer filled with M249 light machine guns, and visits with ANA Capt. Mohammed, Forward Supply Depot Weapons Officer, and AF Master Sgt. Kristin Morris, FSD Senior Enlisted Adviser, at the Force Support Depot on Camp Hero, Oct. 25.

KANDAHAR – ANA logistics professionals stand in a conex storage container full of Russian and Chinese-made AK-47 rifles. Handling each one, they read off the serial numbers as another member of the team holds a clipboard with the manifest, and checks off each one.

The logisticians track more than 1,200 captured weapons. Besides AK-47s, there are RPK light machine guns, DShK heavy machine guns, SPG-9 recoilless guns, and other former Warsaw Pact munitions. The nationwide weapons-collection program is part of an initiative by Afghan Pres. Hamid Karzi, the “Disbandment of Illegal Armed Groups.”

The ANA’s 205th Corps’ FSD at Camp Hero is a central collection point. “There are places across the country that have amnesty-type of drop-off places for weapons and ammo,” said AF Master Sgt. Kristin Morris, the FSD’s senior enlisted adviser.

On this day, ANA logisticians inventoried more than 700 Russian-made AK-47s. “Those are a hot commodity downtown; we want to get them out of here, so there’s no theft,” said Morris. "There are also 164 Chinese-made AKs. Those aren’t as valuable. What makes a Russian version better than the Chinese is how it’s made,” explained Morris. “Imagine a block of metal and the grooves and sections are drilled and routed out of that chunk of metal.”

“The Chinese ones have a sheet of metal formed to make those grooves; they aren’t cut out; they're folded together, like how a trash can is one sheet of metal and grooves are stamped into it. So basically, they look the same, but, their structural integrity is substandard.”

Just the same, the mission is to get all of the foreign weapons off the compound. “We do up paperwork and get them convoyed to Kabul at the depots. When they get there, they can either refurbish them, or destroy them,” said Morris.

“We're trying to send off 1,280 various weapons to include AK-47s, Russia-machine guns, crew-serve type of weapons, and RPG-7s [anti-tank launchers],” Morris said. “If this proves to be a success, it will pave the way for future retrogrades.”

Not all weapons the FSD receives are made in Russia or China. Eight 122-mm howitzer D-30 towed artillery weapons, gifts from the Turkish govt to the ANA, stand impressively in the compound, and will find their way to the artillery batteries within the 205th Corps.

The FSD also collects and distributes NATO weapons for the corps’ units. “NATO weapons come to us brand new, 100% serviceable,” said Morris. “It's a busy and rewarding job knowing we're getting the weapons off the streets away from the Taliban, and have weapons to issue out to the ANA for their combat ops,” said Morris.

A 122-mm howitzer D-30 towed artillery weapon stands in the compound.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Wheat Seed to Khost Farmers will Increase Yields

Written by Army Maj. Mary Shaw

A farmer plants wheat seed in Jaji Maidan, Nov. 4. The Indiana N.G.'s 4-19 ADT members visited several villages in Jaji Maidan district, Khost prov., to assess wheat seed planting techniques. (Army Photos by Capt. Brian Foster, 4-19th ADT)

KHOST PROVINCE — For Afghan farmers in eastern Afghanistan agriculture is the primary industry, and wheat is the staple food. It accounts for over half the caloric intake of the population, and covers roughly 16,000 hectares of land.
Coalition members of the 4-19th ADT recently funded the purchase of 142 metric tons of certified winter wheat seed for planting throughout the prov. this winter.  Made through the Army’s Cmdr’s Emergency Response Program (CERP), the seed purchase will help combat a projected shortfall in wheat production, and increase domestic supply.

According to a May 2011 report published by the Afghan Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock (MAIL), cereal production, primarily wheat, was estimated to be 1.25 metric tons below last year’s yield.

“This project is very important, because it will help increase wheat production in Khowst Prov.,” said Capt. Marc Blue, of Ill., the CERP project mgr. “This project gives the DAIL and his staff a mechanism to expand upon year after year, as well as to increase the support and sustainability of the Afghan Govt.”

In order to receive the certified wheat seed, farmers join the Khowst Province Wheat Seed Assn., headed by the DAIL staff.  Moreover, they must be willing to accept the guidance and technical assistance from local DAIL Agricultural Extension Agents, and be willing to share improved wheat seed from his harvest with his community.

Combined with the distribution of wheat seed, the DAIL’s office will form a Khowst Prov. Wheat Seed Assn.  Initially, the DAIL staff will select district leaders who will identify the most successful and innovative wheat seed farmers in each of their districts, who'll become the base membership of the assn.

“It's important to get this wheat seed distributed quickly to the village co-operatives and farmers, so they can have a successful harvest in the spring,” said Faisal Rahim of the Khowst Prov. DAIL’s office.

Farmers prepare the soil for wheat seed planting, Nov. 3.

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DVIDS

Law Students Perform in Jalalabad Court

By AF 1st Lt. Jeff Nagan

During a mock trial, Oct. 27, at the Jalalabad central courtroom, Nangarhar University law students, listen to evidence gathered at a murder scene. Students argued their case using evidence and witness testimony.

NANGARHAR PROVINCE -- As a capstone activity, Nangarhar University law students put on a mock trial in the central Jalalabad courtroom, in front of provincial judges, Oct. 27, where they were graded on their ability to work through the legal process of a complex murder case.

Similar to an actual case that occurred 3 years ago, the students had to argue evidence and question witnesses to make or plead their case. "The Afghan public expects those who graduate from law school to be competent and comfortable in the courtroom," said Shabeer  Kamawal, country director, International Legal Foundation-Afghanistan, a non-govt, nonprofit org.

“Our hope is that the mock trial helps students gain a much better understanding of trial procedures,” said Kamawal. “Therefore, it fulfills people’s need for having lawyers, judges and prosecutors, who know what they have to do.”

"The trial enabled the law students to apply what they learned in an academic setting to a real courtroom situation," said AF Maj. Kari Fletcher, NATO Rule of Law Field Support Mission—Afghanistan. “The mock trial allowed students to hone their critical thinking skills, practice public speaking, and gain valuable experience working as a group,” said Fletcher.

"The program does not just benefit the students," said Kamawal. It offers clear insight into an ideal Afghan courtroom environment, where the defense and prosecution have equal time to present their arguments and plead their case. It offers an orderly and preset model that judges and other judicial officials can follow.

“One reason mock trials are structured the way they are is to educate and send the message out to judicial actors—whether it’s the police, judges, prosecutors—to explain what it's like to have a trial that goes according to the rule of law, and follows procedures correctly,” added Kamawal.

Although the audience was primarily judicial officials and students, local radio, television and news media also captured the trial, granting the public a view into the judicial process.
“Holding mock trials in a public form is a great way for the public to see its judicial system at work, and an appreciation for the principle of equal access to justice,” said Fletcher. “By allowing the students to hold the mock trial in a public courtroom, the judiciary is acknowledging the importance of the formal justice system.”

Once the trial concluded, members of the audience, which included prosecutors, defense attorneys, and judges, asked questions and commented on the program. “It was a very successful trial,” said Chief Judge Fazil, Nangarhar’s chief judge of the appellate court. “The students worked exceptionally hard. They carefully prepared their decision, and I evaluated each of their efforts.”

"Although only a select number of law students participated in the mock trial, the program is ongoing," said Kamawal. "The goal is to grow the program to include twice as many students."

“Promoting the rule of law in Afghanistan needs to start with the younger generation,” said Fletcher. “Engaging students in the system at an early stage in their lives will help foster a belief in the future of Afghanistan, and that they will play a key part in how Afghanistan’s justice system is shaped. Traditional approaches to dispute resolution have such a deep-rooted place in Afghanistan culture that we need to instill in the next generation the efficacy of the rule of law in society.”

Nangarhar University law students, listen to evidence gathered at a murder scene. Students argued their case using evidence and witness testimony.



Afghan journalists interview Chief Judge Fazil, at the conclusion of mock trial.

A Nangarhar University law student, acting as a police officer, answers a question. The complex murder trial tested the students’ abilities to argue evidence and question witnesses in front of actual top Afghan provincial judicial officials.

Acting as the victim’s father, a student approaches the stand.

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DVIDS

TF Spartan 3 Mentor Afghan Police in Kabul

Story and photos by Petty Officer 1st Class Chris Fahey

TF Spartan 3, Truck Cmdr. Sgt. David Floyd (front) helps ANP officers detect vehicle threat indicators at Freedom Circle in the heart of downtown Kabul.

KABUL – As TF Spartan 3’s armored convoy stopped at the congested Freedom Circle, Nov. 8, in downtown Kabul, the 15 specially trained soldiers – including Sgt. David Floyd and Spc. Daniel Fowler – dismounted to find the ANP set up, ready and already searching vehicles.

“Since we’ve started doing our checkpoints and mentoring the Afghan police, I’ve seen a big difference in their work ethic and capability,” said Spartan 3 Team Leader Staff Sgt. Mark Moon. “The checkpoints we’ve helped them work are being run correctly and nearly autonomously.”

Stood up in early Sept., TF Spartan consists of several teams, most of which are based at Camp Phoenix, Kabul.  Spartan 3 is the group’s largest and only element based at Camp Eggers, Kabul. They were charged by Cmdr., TF Yankee, Brig. Gen. John Hammond to serve as combat advisers to ANP officials at more than 50 different checkpoints, within 5 Afghan police districts spread out across the densely populated city of more than 3.9 million people.

“There are a lot of people out here,” said Moon. “We show the Afghan police how to protect themselves and catch insurgents. Ultimately, this will help ensure a successful security transition in 2014.”

According to Spartan 3 Senior NCO Master Sgt. Jerry Dees, completing their mission demanded a higher pedigree of soldier. “We needed the best and got them,” said Dees. “Every single person on this team was handpicked based on their capabilities, motivation, and overall desire to conduct themselves as professional soldiers.  Spartan 3 can communicate extremely well, and understands that building a good rapport with the Afghan police requires respect and courtesy.”

Spartan 3 mentors work shoulder to shoulder with ANP officers, demonstrating ways to identify possible VBIEDs, vehicle and personnel searches, and how to set up traffic control points. This mission places Spartan 3 in a unique position, where each action results in a measurable success or failure, and pushes the most junior soldier to perform as a seasoned warfighter.

“Being a leader fills me with a lot of confidence,” said Spc. Matthew Crane, Spartan 3’s most junior truck cmdr. “Proving that I’m capable of doing the job of a NCO gives me a lot of fulfillment.”

Spartan 3’s efforts also support Afghanistan’s Ministry of Interior priority to counter internal corruption.  By setting a positive example both externally in the way Spartan 3 soldiers engage the Afghan community, and internally in the way the team inter-operates with each other, Afghan police see a reachable standard that emphasizes common respect – a lesson Moon says comes naturally by way of a classic soldier mentality.

“When you talk to soldiers, you hear them talk about why they go to war,” said Moon. “It’s always about the brothers and sisters next to them. I’m here for my team, and we are all here for each other. When we work with the ANP, we demonstrate this in our actions. They are happy to see us and appreciate us being there.”

Activated in 2009, NTM-A (NATO Training Mission) is a coalition of 37 contributing nations charged with assisting the GoA in generating a capable and sustainable ANSF ready to take the lead of their country’s security by 2014.



Spc. Daniel Fowler provides security for his team while ANP officers conduct routine vehicle inspections at Freedom Circle in the heart of downtown Kabul.



NCO Master Sgt. Jerry Dees briefs his team before leaving to help ANP officers.

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IRAQI STORY:

DVIDS

Heavy Metal Takes a Ride to Kuwait

Story and photos by Pvt. Andrew Slovensky

Soldiers with the 1452nd Combat Heavy Equipment Transportation Co (CHETC), N. Carolina Army N.G., load an M1 Abrams tank onto the bed of a super heavy equipment transporter tractor-trailer on COB Adder, Nov. 4. The 1452nd loaded 2 of the 60-ton tanks to transport to Kuwait in support of the U.S. Forces drawdown in Iraq.

CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE BASRA – On COB Adder, Humvees, tanks, trucks, and tractors wait silently for their turn to make the more-than 100-mile trip to Kuwait. As U.S. troops leave, the growing list of heavy machinery that can't be packed into bags or shipping containers has an alternative route out of the country.

Soldiers with the 1452nd mobilized in July to support the rapid drawdown of U.S. Forces from Iraq. The N. Carolina Army N.G. unit deployed to Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, and runs convoy missions to load up heavy equipment in Iraq, and deliver it safely to the southern neighbor.

“The mission is to go up north and move equipment back down to where they need it,” said Sgt. Charles Evegan, asst. convoy cmdr. for the 1452nd. "They spend most of their time on the road in convoys of heavy equipment transporters, armored tractor-trailers," said Evegan.

The trailers are loaded with some of the largest pieces of military equipment in use, including massive 60-ton M1 Abrams tanks. Soldiers in the unit are responsible not just for driving the oversized HETs, but also for securing loads, operating wenches, and performing maintenance on their vehicles.

With the deadline set by the Status of Forces Agreement with Iraq for U.S. Forces’ withdrawal, units are lining up with gear in hand to leave the country. But soldiers of the 1452nd said they're proud to swim against the current of departing troops, to facilitate the needs of the drawdown.

“I put in a volunteer packet to be here; I want to be here to help my country,” said Spc. Ryan Lee, truck driver with the 1452nd. “I know it’s one of the biggest drawdowns in history, and I feel glad that I’m able to contribute.”

“It feels pretty good to know you're part of something this big, and moving a lot of equipment in such a short amount of time,” said Evegan.



Soldiers with the 1452nd prepare to convoy out of COB Adder, Nov. 4.



Staff Sgt. Kyle Gentry, convoy cmdr. with the 1452nd, secures an M1 Abrams to the bed of a super heavy equipment transporter tractor-trailer.

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Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/11-09-11

Dear Interested Reader,

The busiest man in Nawa.  Deployment gives Virginia native new prospective.  Local police hero stands tall - with one leg.  'America's Bn.' arrives at Camp Dwyer.  ISAF Joint Command operational update, Nov. 7, 2011.

Iraq:  New radar paints Iraq's air defense picture.

Joanna

_________________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

DVIDS

The Busiest Man in Nawa

Story and photos by Staff Sgt. Andrew Miller

Nawa District Gov. Manaf speaks with a caller during a live radio show, Oct. 29.  Manaf highlighted plans for Nawa's future, emphasizing his enduring objectives of peace, poppy eradication, education and security.  He uses radio programs to reach those who are unable to attend the shuras he hosts throughout the district.  His days end late in the evenings and begin well before sunrise. While most in Nawa are still sleeping soundly in their beds, he's already awake preparing for another seemingly endless day. 

COMBAT OUTPOST JAKER, Helmand province – District Gov. Manaf, unquestionably the busiest man in Nawa, sees each day as an opportunity to make history, and another chance to help his people.  Manaf was appointed to his current position almost 2-1/2 years ago. He arrived in Nawa when there was little to no security in place; the district center was destroyed by years of war with insurgents, and a constant barrage of violence was directed toward himself, local civilians and CF. 

Opium growth and drug use was rampant among the population, and most govt officials were corrupt. Manaf immediately took the reigns and has led a relentless campaign to improve the quality of life for his people. He's not an armchair politician by any stretch of the imagination.

Manaf has each day planned out, filling the daylight hours with a flurry of activity, and handling his administrative duties at night. One of his preferred methods of engagement is to bring his message directly to the people, face to face. Almost every other day he's traveling throughout his district conducting shura after shura. 

At one of his most recent gatherings at PB Loy Kolay, Manaf highlighted plans for Nawa’s future, emphasizing his enduring objectives of “PPES” – peace, poppy eradication, education and security. During the shura the gov. spoke of the dangers of poppy, urging those in attendance not to grow the controversial plant, because the people are getting sick.  He spoke about education becoming more readily available for all the people of Nawa, including his dream of making it available to both men and women. 

As is the case at nearly every shura he holds, Manaf discussed the Afghan Local Police (ALP). He encouraged local residents to register with the ALP, to take responsibility for the security of their own villages.  He ended his remarks with words of peace, “even for people who are rebels and are against governance, they can come and have peace here among themselves.” 

Manaf’s efforts are genuine. He knows his people need to hear what their gov. has planned for their district. “District Gov. (DG) Manaf will come to the RIAB (Radio in a Box) station for his weekly call-in show, in order to broadcast any messages he wants to be heard by the people of Nawa. The 4 topics he usually addresses are poppy eradication, reintegration for insurgents into society, increases in educational programs, such as student/teacher attendance rates, and increasing recruitment for the ALP,” said Spc. Michael Mansour, Psychological Ops Specialist with the 350th PsyOps Co. “After he broadcasts his message, the DG usually fields an array of callers. These callers cover those within and beyond the borders of Nawa’s district lines.”

Mansour said the calls range from praises for the hard work of the gov., to asking him questions and seeking advice, or assistance with personal situations. “Other callers may request interpretations or descriptions of laws, or even to wage complaints or grievances they have towards govt/ANSF officials or actions,” said Mansour, a native of Ohio. “In an environment with low literacy rates, limited print capabilities, limited TV, and limited internet usage, a radio broadcast acts as the strongest method to spread info.

Manaf feels that the radio broadcast program is one of his most beneficial tools in his toolkit. “I'm so happy about this program,” he said. “This is another way for the people to contact me, so I can help solve their issues or problems, and if I can't solve the problem myself, then I relay it to the correct depts which are responsible.”

But even this method won’t reach 100% of the population. Manaf understands this and presses forward with his mission, projecting messages over loudspeakers at the local mosques, and hanging inspirational literature and posters around the villages and towns. He remains persistent in his goal to help his entire community. 

One reason Manaf believes he has been successful in establishing change in Nawa, is because he tries to project himself as a good example for others.  He practices what he preaches. Even with his busy schedule, the gov. makes time for furthering his education, a habit he hopes others will imitate.  

“Every morning from 6 to 8 I have a computer class, and I'm now trying to establish a steady English class,” he explained. “Whenever I have an interview with the people at shuras or on the radio, I tell them that until I'm too old, I'll continue to get further education, but for them it's still not too late.”

“I'm so happy about my job and my position,” he said. “I could talk about this all day and never finish. I want to bring peace and security for the entire district of Nawa, so that people will come from around the world to see Nawa. One day, Nawa will be a beautiful place that people will want to come and see.”

Gov. Manaf (far left) gives a tour of a local bazaar to U.S. Amb. Ryan Crocker (second from right), Oct. 31. Crocker used the visit as an opportunity to see firsthand the progress ANSF and the district govt are making in Nawa. "We've been pleased to be your partners in security and economic support, but the real reason for the success is all of you," Crocker said in an address to local district leaders and residents. "Your courage and commitment to make this community and district a better place is what accounts for the success." 

Manaf and Garmsir District Gov. Fahim enjoy a meal during the Voices of Religious Tolerance reunion shura, Sept. 14. The VORT program was originally a partnered initiative between the Afghan govt, the Kingdom of Jordan, Regimental Combat Team 1, and the U.S. Dept of State, that exposed 30 key leaders from Nawa, Marjah, Garmsir, and Lashkar Gah districts to a prosperous, moderate and modern Islamic society. The program's key themes of tolerance and cooperation with Muslims and non-Muslims alike were reinforced by district officials, during the reunion shura. 

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DVIDS

Deployment Gives Virginia Native New Perspective

Story and photos by Sgt. Earnest Barnes

LCpl. Leepoleon Jackson, 21, an administration clerk in the Administration and Manpower Section, 2nd Marine Div (Fwd), said he hung out with the wrong crowd in high school, and his mother enrolled him in a program for at-risk youth. Jackson liked the military lifestyle so much, he signed up for the Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps, when he returned to high school. and later joined the Marine Corps.

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Helmand province – LCpl. Jackson is working toward a promising future, thanks to the lessons his mother tried to teach him as a child, and his experiences in the Marine Corps.  Jackson grew up in a single-parent home with a mother who would not tolerate negative influences in his life.

“When I was 16 or 17, my mom put me in this military program for at-risk youth,” said Jackson. “It's basically like a 5-month ‘boot camp.’ I really liked the discipline the instructors had. I was a big fan of the uniforms and the whole military persona. I took a lot from the experience.” 

The program, called the Commonwealth Challenge, was created to intervene in the lives of at-risk youth, by providing the values, skills, education, and self-discipline needed to produce responsible, productive citizens, and to do so in a highly disciplined atmosphere, according to the program’s website.

Jackson knew after his time in the Commonwealth Challenge and JROTC that he was going to join the military. “I’m all about challenges,” said Jackson. “Out of all the other branches, I felt the Marine Corps would be the most challenging, so I thought it would be the best for me.”

Jackson worked at the Installation Personnel Administration Center (IPAC) on Camp Lejeune, N.C.  For Jackson, the same day-in-day-out routine was very repetitive, and he wanted a new challenge. He saw an opportunity to mix up his day-to-day routine and jumped on it, volunteering to deploy with 2nd Marine Div (Fwd) for a 12–month tour to Afghanistan.

Jackson's main responsibilities include ensuring the tracking and accountability of all personnel in 2nd Marine Div (Fwd), which heads TF Leatherneck, the ground combat element of Regional Command (SW). “LCpl. Jackson is crucial to ensuring the 10,000 plus personnel of TF Leatherneck are properly accounted for on a daily basis,” said Sgt. Adriana Soliz Ponce, NCO-in-charge of the ops and manpower section. “He has personally produced more than 60 personnel reports that were submitted for presentation to the chief of staff and comm. gen.”

Soliz Ponce, a Mass. native, added, "the reports Jackson produces provide all other sections with critical info needed to accomplish daily tasks, by being able to easily locate any Marine within the division for personnel casualty reports, Red Cross messages, emergency leave, and combat and administrative replacements.

“Compared to what I was doing in Camp Lejeune, I like my job a lot. It’s different; I’m always up for new things,” said Jackson. “Too much of one thing is never a good thing. I’m always up for learning something new. I learn something new every day.”

He said that he plans to take back his experiences he has had in Afghanistan, when he goes back to the IPAC, and teach others all that he has learned. “Being over here and seeing a different way of viewing things, meeting different people; it has really opened my eyes to different things, and I think it's going to carry over,” said Jackson. 

Jackson added that he's going to try to motivate others who may feel like they are in a rut as he once felt. He reverts back to a lesson his mother taught him as a young man. “It's not as bad as you think it is; everything is what you make it,” said Jackson.

Jackson, who was formerly planning to get out of the Marine Corps, now plans to re-enlist and has submitted a package for the Marine Security Guard (MSG) program, in which he could be selected to guard U.S. embassies around the world, now that his deployment is nearing an end. Jackson said the reason he wants join the MSG program, is so he can see another side of the Marine Corps, and take advantage of the opportunity to travel and live in foreign countries.

“He has matured a lot, and because he constantly seeks self improvement, his work ethic, attention to detail, and proficiency surpasses that of his peers,” said Soliz Ponce. “Since day one, he has always put forth his best effort, given 100% of himself in every assigned task, and it has reflected in his work.”

The maturity Jackson has gained on his deployment has him looking back on all those things his mother said to him growing up. He now understands the wisdom she was trying to pass on to him throughout his life. “I take a lot from her, and I thank her for everything she did.  My mom used to always tell me whatever I do in life, make sure I'm happy about what I’m doing,” said Jackson. “If it wasn’t for all the things she did, I wouldn’t be the person I am today, and I'm happy with who I am.”

LCpl. Leepoleon Jackson checks some paperwork for accuracy.  Jackson said that this deployment has changed his outlook and renewed his enthusiasm about the Marine Corps, and life in general.

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Local Police Hero Stands Tall -- With One Leg

Story by Capt. Jonathan Simmons, PRT Kapisa

Members of the Afghan Local Police (ALP) patrol a local bazaar. The local policemen conducted the patrol to engage local citizens, and address issues of security and governance. (Photo by Spc. Jeff Collet)

KAPISA PROVINCE – What would it take to make you stop fighting robbers, murderers and kidnappers in your hometown?  Well, for one ALP chief in a small village in Afghanistan’s smallest prov., even 9 bullet wounds, and the loss of a leg was not enough to make him quit. Qand Agha, 28, chief of the the ALP unit for the Landakhel village, continues to defend his village against Taliban domination, even after the loss of his left leg in a combat op partnered with CF near his village, last Dec. 

Agha described, with passion and tears, the fierce battle where he lost his leg. “We were scouting an area to establish a checkpoint, when we were attacked by the Taliban,” Agha said. “I lost 2 guys, but made it to the checkpoint location with CF.” He described the combat movement, and said that he climbed into a “stronghold” on the mountain’s lap with CF. Then it happened …
“I heard a blast,” Agha recounted. “After the blast my left arm was broken and my leg was about a meter away from my body. When I heard the blast I thought I was dead.” Agha retold the events in explicit detail, as if they had happened yesterday, describing the condition of other casualties, and the complex medical evacuation effort that ensued. As the smoke was clearing, their laid Agha, 2 of his men, and at least 1 coalition casualty.

“Some of the soldiers thought we were dead and they left,” said Agha. “But a brave special forces guy put his mouth on my mouth, and put on a tourniquet. He didn't leave me.” 

Pressed but not crushed, Agha had not seen his last battle on this infamous day. After 2-1/2 months in a medical facility on Bagram Air Base, the young leader returned to the village where he was born, and continued to lead the fight against Taliban oppression.

Before he became the leader of the Landakhel ALP, Agha was a motorcycle mechanic in a bazaar near his village. He decided to stand against the Taliban, after they killed his cousin, and after a long and harsh regimen of oppression in his village. “The Taliban had much influence in my village,” Agha remembered from his pre-ALP days. “They were harming kids and families. They were using houses as strongholds, and anyone who would stand against them would be killed, … so I decided to participate with the govt and go against them. This is why I decided to pick up a gun against them.”

The local Taliban didn’t welcome this 1st ALP unit in the prov. (at the time called Road Maintenance Team) with open arms. They attacked this new force mercilessly. When traditional attacks failed, the Taliban resorted to kidnapping ALP family members and info warfare, but Agha and his band of Landakhel brothers were not dissuaded from defending their homes and neighbors.

According to sources in the area last year, the local populace has “embraced the concept of a village without insurgents.” Agha’s men call him “our brother.” They know his voice, and they follow him. They described their team with the Pashto phrase “Sar-Tom-Bah,” which is commonly used to mean stubborn. “We're using this name, because in a fire fight we're afraid of no one, and we're never backing down,” Agha said with pride. 

This term may just be appropriate for this police force, considering that the Landakhel village is located in the highly contested key terrain district of Tagab in Southern Kapisa. The ALP there continues to repel Taliban attacks, and help to keep the nearby portion of the prov’s only north-to-south corridor relatively safe and open for business. 

When asked why he continues to fight the Taliban after all he’s been through, Agha replied simply “I have to fight to survive.”

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‘America’s Battalion’ arrives at Camp Dwyer

Story and photos by Cpl. Reece Lodder

Marines and sailors with HSC, 3rd Bn, 3rd Marine Regt, sit aboard an AF C-17 transport aircraft on the flight line, before departing for Camp Dwyer, Oct. 30. After departing from Hawaii from Oct. 27 through Nov. 1, “America’s Battalion” arrived in southern Helmand prov., to begin their 7-month deployment. In the coming weeks 3/3 will take control of ops in Garmsir District, relieving fellow Hawaii-based 1st Bn, 3rd Marine Regt. The “Lava Dogs” of 1/3 are nearing the end of their deployment, which began in April. 

CAMP DWYER — Over 7 months of training, the Marines and sailors of 3rd Bn, 3rd Marine Regt, have become hardened for war. They’ve prepared for the enemy from their home base in Hawaii, and endured endless hours baking in the sun of the California desert. 

Staff Sgt. Joe Salinas, an ops watch chief with 3/3, said the Marines and sailors will have a challenging task in Garmsir. They’ll partner with the ANSF to maintain the progress made by 1/3, to secure the district and legitimize its govt in the eyes of the people. “Our deployment to Garmsir is as important as the 1st, because we could be the last Marines here,” said Salinas, a 40-year-old native of Texas. “We have a lot to accomplish to make sure the Afghans are ready to take over when we leave.

Partnering with the ANA and Police, “America’s Battalion” will assist the local Afghan leadership in providing security for reconstruction projects, aimed at developing critical infrastructure in the district.  Lt. Col. Matthew Palma, 3/3 comm. officer, sees these development projects as essential to the Afghan govt taking root in southern Helmand. 

“We’ve invested 10 years in this war,” said Palma, a native of R.I. “We’re on the verge of success, and turning back now would only throw away the work we’ve done, and the sacrifices of the Marines that have gone before us. The Afghans are emerging from 30 years of sustained conflict. They see the light at the end of the tunnel, and they want change, too.”

The deployment is new territory for many of the Marines and sailors of 3/3, including Seaman Dave Mundy, a corpsman with Kilo Co. While a professional milestone, it will also be Mundy’s 1st deployment apart from his wife of 7 months. He said the separation will be difficult, especially following his wife’s recent move to Hawaii. “I brought my wife away from her family for the 1st time,” said Mundy, a native of Ill. “Now we’re going to miss spending all the holidays together.”

In Afghanistan, the corpsman will shoulder a lot of responsibility. At 27, he has more life experience than nearly all his peers, and his maturity will be an asset in the performance of his duties.  He’s charged with caring for 18 Marines, infantrymen faced with the threats of enemy fighters and IEDs.

Though confident in his abilities as a corpsman, Mundy said that he hopes he never has to use his training in combat. 
“Even if I don’t have to use my training, I’m doing a job that matters ... and my wife knows I am, too,” Mundy said. “Being away from her is going to be really hard, but it makes me feel better knowing I’ll be there when my guys need me.”

"The Marines and sailors of 3/3 will labor in Afghanistan for 7 months, but the impact of their efforts will forever be a part of Afghan and Marine Corps history," Palma said. “This generation of Marines is re-writing America’s history books,” Palma said. “Twenty years from now, our kids will read about our endeavors, much like we did of our fathers in Vietnam, and our grandfathers in World War II.”

LCpl. Ryan Kelly, a rifleman with Jump Plt, waits to have his weapon cleared out after calibrating it during a battle sight zero exercise, Nov. 3.  Kelly, 21, is from Mass.

Cpl. Sebastian Chenault, an anti-tank missileman, and Pvt. Beau Babcock, a mortarman with Jump Plt, use bamboo sticks called “sickle sticks” to locate the wires of mock IEDs, during counter-IED training, Nov. 3.  Chenault, 27, is from Ill, and Babcock, 20, is from Texas. 

LCpl. Barney Oldfield, a rifleman with Jump Plt, uses a bottle cap to mark the location of a mock IED, during metal detector training, Nov. 3. Oldfield, 23, is from Colo. 

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DVIDS

ISAF Joint Command Operational Update, Nov. 7, 2011

ISAF Joint Command

North

BADAKSHAN PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor conducted an op in search of a Haqqani facilitator in Argo district, yesterday. The facilitator coordinates suicide attacks with other insurgent leaders in the area.
During the op, a local national male failed to comply with repeated verbal warnings, and displayed hostile intent toward the SecFor, resulting in his death. The SecFor confiscated a shotgun and intel linking the local national to the Haqqani network. Two suspected insurgents were detained during the op.

South

HELMAND PROVINCE -- In Musa Qal’ah district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban facilitator. The facilitator provides financial, material, and logistical support to insurgents throughout northern Helmand, Farah and Nimroz provs. Multiple weapons, to include 2 AK-47 assault rifles, a shotgun, 2 ammo pouches, and bomb making materials were confiscated.

KANDAHAR PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained a Taliban leader, during an op in Zharay district. The leader is responsible for IED emplacement, and supporting insurgents in the district. Bomb making materials were seized.

East

NANGARHAR PROVINCE -- In Behsud district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained a Taliban facilitator and 2 additional suspected insurgents. The facilitator provided logistical support, weapons and equipment to insurgents in the area. The SecFor engaged an individual armed with an AK-47 assault rifle, killing him. Another insurgent was wounded after firing at the SecFor. 

PAKTIYA PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and CF detained an insurgent leader and several additional insurgents, during a security op in Zurmat district, Nov. 5. The leader was responsible for planning IED attacks, and recruiting insurgents to conduct suicide attacks against Afghan and CF. According to reports, the leader and his subordinates were detained without incident.

----- In Lajah - Ahmad Khel district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban leader. The leader coordinates direct and indirect fire attacks against Afghan and CF in the area. Also, the leader provides weapons, ammo, IEDs and IED material to insurgents in the region.

WARDAK PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained a Taliban leader and multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in Nerkh district. The leader directed attacks against Afghan and CF in the Nerkh and Maidan Shahr districts, as well as coordinating weapons and financial support for insurgents in the area. The SecFor seized an RPG launcher with multiple RPGs, 5 AK-47 assault rifles, several ammo pouches, fragmentation grenades, and bomb making materials.

KHOST PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained a Haqqani network facilitator and 2 suspected insurgents, during an op in Khost district. The facilitator planned and conducted attacks against Afghan and CF, as well as conducted kidnappings in the district. An AK-47 assault rifle and ammo pouch were seized.

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IRAQI STORY:

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New Radar Paints Iraq's Air Defense Picture

Story and photo by Pvt. Andrew Slovensky

Terry Hoke, an instructor with Lockheed Martin, gives a presentation to IqAF officers on COB Adder, Nov. 1.  Iraqi personnel were given classes in communications networks, ground transmission, and radar theory.

CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE BASRA – As U.S. forces redeploy from Iraq, areas of responsibility are being transferred to the Iraqi SecFor. COB Adder will become Imam Ali Air Base, an IqAF installation dedicated to securing the skies over the southern provs.

The IqAF wing taking command of the installation will have a new tool to make that mission possible:  a state-of-the-art radar facility. The $55 million facility was constructed by a joint effort of contractors with Lockheed Martin and the USACE, and sold by the U.S. to Iraq in a foreign military sales case.

“The objective of the system is to provide them a single point location where they can monitor the entire airspace over their country,” said Scott Hosking, technical director with Lockheed Martin. “This system will integrate the air traffic control radars that are scattered throughout the country, as well as the long range radars we're putting in as a part of this effort.”

"The project started in late 2009, and is the culmination of efforts by U.S. forces, civilian contractors, and the IqAF," said Hosking, who trained IqAF personnel on the use of radar technology. "The project entered its final stage this Sept., when Iraqis began their training to operate the system," he added.

“Now that the radar is up and running, they're able to use the computers to do their aerodefense mission,” said Tech. Sgt. Denise Wright, “Because of the communications capability that is set up, Baghdad is also able to receive transmissions of what they're seeing here.”

“They'll have their own network, as we're familiar with the terminology of Defense Switch Network (DSN), they have the IDN, Iraqi Defense Network,” said Wright. "The Iraqis needed training and preparation to take on the task of using the radar and the defense network," said Wright. 

“Since early Sept., we've been conducting training on this system to the Iraqis,” said Hosking. “A little bit more hands on, and a little bit more one-on-one type interaction has brought them a long ways, and I think they'll be very proficient, and should be able to step right into the role.”

"Participation of U.S. service members made the project possible," said Hosking. “They’ve been providing an awful lot of support logistically, and getting through the hurdles of operating on a coalition base like this,” he said. “They've opened the doors we needed opened.”

“The language barrier; that was our biggest hurdle,” said Master Sgt. Marcus Williams, ITAM supply advisor. "With help from interpreters and English-speaking IqAF officers, the joint force was able to handle that challenge," said Williams, who interacted with the Iraqis on a daily basis, and acted as the liaison for civilian contractors and U.S. troops.

“At the beginning it was rough, but we were able to overcome the difficulties, and once all their training is completed, there's no doubt in my mind that they can take over the sector ops center, and do an effective job,” said Williams.

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Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/11-08-11

 

 

Dear Interested Reader,

Afghans, Marines talk progress, plan Nawa's future.  Marine partnership makes progress in Musa Qal'eh.  Texas Marine talks about Afghan experience.  Commandos capture/kill insurgents, find large weapons caches.  ISAF Joint Command operational update, Nov. 6, 2011.

Iraq:  Coming home under new conditions for one Iraqi.

Joanna

_____________________________

 

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

 

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Afghans, Marines Talk Progress, Plan Nawa’s future

 

Story and photos by Cpl. Jeff Drew

 

 

 

 

Lt. Col. Tyler Zagurski (left), and Pa. native Sgt. Maj. Patrick Tracy, the bn. sgt. maj., listen as the local residents ask questions about activities affecting residents in the area. The citizens spoke about up-and-coming construction projects, and security throughout the district.

 

NAWA DISTRICT, Helmand province – Afghan elders, local residents from the towns of Gawragi and Negari, and Marines with 1st Bn, met recently to discuss issues of security, education, and health within the district. Lines of leather-bound shoes and sandals met ornately made carpets, as the men shuffled under a canopy of vines and leaves, eager to sit and speak their minds. The district governor, Haji Manaf, opened the shura speaking of progress.

“There's a big difference from 10 years ago ‘till now; it’s a lot better,” said Manaf. “A lot of progress has been made. Since the Marine forces have been in Nawa, the security has gotten better and better. We've seen progress in building schools and clinics, and in security, and we're happy the progress has been made.” 

A solid foundation of security has opened the door for improvements all over the district. Nawa has an ANA Bn. led by an experienced cmdr., Lt. Col. Ahmad, to oversee security. AUP walk the streets regularly, providing a feeling of safety for Nawa’s residents. “AUP training is going very well – they can get the job done, and they can easily identify an enemy in the area,” said Manaf. “They work well together with the other SecFor, and they are dedicated to bring peace and prosperity to Nawa.”

With security in place, the GoA, aided by CF, has begun making improvements throughout the district.  A new health clinic in Haynak, Nawa district, is underway, as well as the construction of a road from Nawa to the city of Lash Kar Gah, opening lines of commerce in the area.

“Nawa is on the cusp of transition,” explained Wash. native Lt. Col. Tyler Zagurski, the bn. cmdr. for 1/9. “We expect soon to hear that Nawa will change to Afghanistan control, and that's because of the progress that has been made in governance, security and development. The Afghan army is well trained and getting better every day. The ALP is getting training, and getting better every day. We'll continue to work with civil affairs to complete the projects that are so important to Nawa, like schools and clinics. I agree with the officials, the experts and the wise men you’ve heard from, that this is the key to change and peace within Afghanistan.” 

As the Marines begin to take a step back, GoA is quickly filling the gap and increasing its capability to provide services, and meet the needs of Afghan citizens. Similarly, villagers are learning to trust in their govt officials and the support GoA can provide. “We're looking toward a bright future, and I’m sure we'll get there with the help of the CF and the Marine forces,” said Manaf. “We're always looking for better security and more progress.”  

 

Afghan Uniformed Police (AUP) stand outside of a shura, or meeting, for residents of nearby towns. Marines with 1st Bn, 9th Marine Regt, have been working closely with the AUP in anticipation of transferring security of the area over to the GoA in the future.

 

Local residents of the towns of Gawragi and Negari gather at a shura, or meeting, to discuss progress in the district. Several farmers and elders asked questions about current projects in the area.

 

Texas, native Sgt. Brian Behan, the plt. sgt, for the Personal Security Detachment with 1st Bn, provides security during a local shura. The Marines are working closely with local SecFor, helping to provide residents with security in the region.

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Marine partnership makes progress in Musa Qal’eh

Story and photos by Cpl. Tommy Bellegarde

 

 

 

 

 

Calif. native LCpl. Joseph Ramirez, 19, a rifleman with 3rd Plt., Fox Co, 2nd Bn., 4th Marine Regt, patrols through a field. 

PATROL BASE MEHRAJ, Helmand province – AUP and Marines from 3rd Plt, have been conducting partnered patrols in Musa Qal’eh district, in recent weeks to show a strong presence in the platoon’s area of responsibility. Part of the Marines’ mission is to mentor ANSF, including the AUP, to ensure they can operate independently in the future.

“Afghan forces are going to need to know not only the inner workings of how to maintain govt, but how to maintain local security,” said Calif. native 1st Lt. Charlie Cordova, the comm. officer of 3rd Plt. “The security that Marines provide is obvious and direct, but without a presence of govt, the local residents can’t believe in their govt, and that’s what the AUP provide – a sense of stability in the govt itself, not just security.”

Marines are currently working with AUP and other ANSF elements throughout Helmand prov., and have been successful teaching their Afghan counterparts the necessary skills to be proficient patrolmen and soldiers. “The police, … they’re having mentors with them; their cmdrs. are having mentors with them,” said Naimatullah Sameen, the Governor of Musa Qal’eh district. “If they have mistakes or something happens, the Marines are trying to help them with their problems. In Musa Qal’eh district, the Marines have helped a lot.”

Together, the AUP and Marines have engaged local residents of the area, gaining intel about a variety of topics, such as asking about the local insurgency, addressing any concerns of the Afghans, trying to recruit for the AUP, and discouraging poppy growth in the area, which funds insurgent activities.

“I always take the senior AUP patrolman and keep him right with me so we can both interact with the people,” said Texas native Sgt. Joshua Pearce, 29, a squad leader with 3rd Plt. “We ask them if they’ve seen any insurgents recently, if they’ve been threatened, so we can get a broader spectrum of their situation. We can track who’s been threatened, so we can plan for future ops.”

“If we just go on all-Marine patrols, local residents think we’re the ones dictating the rules, and it’s hard to explain, for example, that they’re not allowed to grow poppy, and then explain that it’s not my rule, it’s their govt’s rule,” said Pearce. “It shows them that we’re working hand-in-hand with their govt.”

“The AUP, being from this area, are able to identify any outsiders,” said Cordova, a graduate of Michigan State University with a bachelor’s degree in history. “They're able to detect dialect, dress, and actions. The local residents are able to speak to them more freely because they know them. They’re able to gain info that, ultimately, we can’t attain without them. The coalition has narrowed its focus in the hope of encouraging Afghans to return to the bazaar near the patrol base, which had been abandoned," according to Cordova.

“From what I’ve been seeing, most of the AUP are really happy to be working with us,” said Tenn native, Cpl. Kasey McDaniel, 23, an asst. patrol leader. “It’s hard for us to communicate, because of the language barrier, but they show us they want to communicate, and that means they want to be around us."

The future looks bright for the AUP and Marine partnership. Cordova believes the partnership is already paying dividends, as the coalition is gaining the trust of the area’s residents, slowly, because of the AUP’s presence. “More people have taken to coming and speaking with us, as opposed to being standoffish,” said Cordova. 

 

 

 

 

 

Calif. native LCpl. Joseph Ramirez, a rifleman, crosses an irrigation ditch with some help from an AUP patrolman. 

 

 

Sgt. Joshua Pearce checks his squad’s location with a map during a patrol. 

 

Cmdr. Saber (left), an AUP cmdr. for a precinct, and 1st Lt. Charlie Cordova (right), the comm. officer, scout an area of Musa Qal’eh district to establish an overnight observation post. 

 

Marines and police patrolmen patrol through a field.

 

Arizona native Petty Officer 3rd Class Cameron Mouer, 22, a corpsman, provides security while halted on a patrol. 

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DVIDS

 

Texas Marine Talks About Afghan Experience

 

 

Story and photos by Cpl. Tommy Bellegarde

 

Texas native Lance Cpl. Trey Woodward, 21, a machine-gunner with 3rd Plt, Fox Co, 2nd Bn, 4th Marine Regt, patrols through a field. 

PATROL BASE MEHRAJ, Helmand province – The culture, landscape and austere conditions of Helmand prov., can be downright shocking to American troops deployed to the area for the first time.  Life in Helmand is completely different from life in the U.S., and one can only begin to understand this exotic land after experiencing it first-hand.

Many Marines from 2nd Bn, 4th Marine Regt, are currently serving on their 1st combat tour as the bn. operates in Musa Qal’eh district, and have learned something new at each twist and turn of their journeys.  LCpl. Trey Woodward and Cpl. Nicholas Hardesty of Neb., both from 3rd Plt., are among these Marines discovering the Afghan experience for the first time.

“Our 1st engagement with enemy forces was our 2nd or 3rd patrol,” said Woodward. “We came across this field, and off to our right was a compound, and we just started taking fire from there. We got down – I couldn’t shoot because another (friendly) element was off to our right, cutting off our sectors of fire, so I held rear security. That 1st round cracks by your head; you don’t realize you're doing it, but you’re getting down in a hurry and getting your gun up,” he said. “Your head’s on a swivel.”

The Marines have quickly learned that an area’s atmosphere typically takes on an ominous ambiance before insurgents strike, knowledge that has helped the Marines determine whether they're unlikely to receive enemy fire, or if danger is imminent. “You know certain areas where you’re pretty safe, and you know certain areas where something’s going to happen,” said Hardesty. “If there’s nobody around and nothing’s going on, or there’s everybody around, and then they leave; it’s never good.”

Woodward and the rest of 2/4 prepared for the deployment through in-depth training and hard work, prior to arriving in Afghanistan, as reflected in their performance during enemy engagements. They also received cultural training, but the Marines have nevertheless been surprised at some of the things they've witnessed during their surreal adventure.

“There were a few things I wasn’t expecting,” said Woodward. “People are living in mud huts, walking around barefoot most of the time, kids with scars and stuff on their faces from being sick – you don’t see this kind of stuff back home.”
The children, likewise, have responded with surprise at the appearance of the funny-looking Marines in their strange combat gear," according to Woodward.

“One patrol we went on, the kids, I don’t know, I guess they thought we were cyborgs or something. They looked at us like, ‘Are these guys humans or what?’” said Woodward. “They started hitting my helmet, and they were amazed by how tough it was.”

The Marines have noticed other obvious differences in Afghan culture too. Hardesty was shocked by the status of women in Afghanistan. “On patrol today I saw a woman pop out of a compound, and she saw me,” said Hardesty. “Immediately, she took off because she’s not supposed to be seen by us, and I know it’s bad for us to look at their women too. It was an accident.”

Afghanistan’s undeveloped landscape is also something that can only truly be appreciated through experience. The rocky terrain, endless fields, unpaved roads and numerous canals of Musa Qal’eh district, contribute to a picturesque setting for the squad’s patrols, but also provide obstacles the Marines must overcome. “The terrain affects me, but not to the point where I can’t do my job,” said Woodward. “You just hop over some canals and that’s it; you’re getting muddy and wet. It comes with the job.”

Being deployed to Afghanistan has left the Marines with an appreciation of how good life is for most Americans; something Hardesty took for granted, until he started his own Afghan experience with 2/4. “They don’t have the technology we do,” said Hardesty. “Many people don’t have electricity, running water – they use wells for everything; they go barefoot everywhere. Everything here, it’s different. Unless you’ve been here, you don’t know what to expect – it’s a culture shock.”

Perhaps the best experience of a combat tour is the camaraderie achieved through shared hardship between brothers going through a common trial. Many of the Marines in 3rd Plt. have become very close with each other. “Being an infantryman has its ups and downs,” said Woodward. “The best part is you get to spend time with your brothers.”

 

LCpl. Trey Woodward, a machine-gunner, patrols across a small canal. 

 

LCpl. Woodward provides security while halted during a patrol. 

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DVIDS

Commandos Capture Insurgents, find Large Weapons Caches

 

Story by Staff Sgt. Fritz Butac

NANGAHAR PROVINCE – The 1st ANA Commando Bn., partnered with coalition Special Operations Forces (SOF), during a clearing op in Lal’Pur district, Nov. 4. During the op, 5 insurgents were killed. Three insurgents taken into custody have been identified as Pakistani Taliban members. The detainees are currently being held by Afghan forces for further questioning.

The two large weapons caches contained significant amounts of weaponry and ammo, to include 61 grenades, 17 AK-47s, 18 81 mm mortar rounds, 6 RPG rounds, 5 30 mm anti-aircraft rounds, 2 RPG launchers, and a mortar bipod mount. 

The caches also contained large amounts of IED making materials, including potassium chloride ammonium nitrate, detonation chord, mortar fuses, and IED timers. One cache, which was located inside a mosque, was moved to a secure location and destroyed, while the other cache was reduced in place.

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ISAF Joint Command - Afghanistan

 

ISAF Joint Command Operational Update - Nov. 6, 2011

 

East

LOGAR PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Haqqani network leader in Pul-e 'Alam district, yesterday. The leader directs roadside bomb and indirect fire attacks against Afghan and CF in the Khoshi and Pul-e 'Alam districts, as well as acquires weapons and IEDs for his network.  

South

KANDAHAR PROVINCE -- In Kandahar district, a combined Afghan and coalition patrol discovered a VB-IED after receiving a tip from a local civilian, yesterday. The vehicle was packed with 500-lbs (227 kgs) of explosives, which were defused and confiscated by the patrol. The force also detained multiple suspected insurgents, while searching the surrounding area for additional explosive materials. 

ZABUL PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and CF discovered a store of munitions, during a routine patrol in Qalat district, Nov. 4. The cache contained 220-lbs (100 kgs) of explosives, and other bomb-making materials. 

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IRAQI STORY:

Coming Home Under New Conditions

Story by Staff Sgt. Mike Norris

 

BAGHDAD - As U.S. forces prepare to leave Iraq, there's a lot of talk among service members about deployments past. Many soldiers have spent years of their life in Iraq, and have seen the changes here firsthand. Spc. Yaareb Hassan, a petroleum supply specialist with the 123rd BSB, 4th AAB, 1st AR Div, may be on his 1st deployment, but he's no stranger to Iraq. 

Hassan was born in Iraq, and for the 1st 28 years of his life, Iraq was not a place that he deployed to; it was home. He spent several years working with U.S. forces, before coming to America and joining the U.S. Army. After graduating from Baghdad University in 2003, Hassan worked as an interpreter for U.S. Forces in Iraq. Following this job, he joined the IA as a communications officer.

With new equipment coming in from American forces, his ability to read English was beneficial. The technical manuals for new equipment received by the IA from the U.S. were written in English.  Hassan used his ability to read and comprehend English, to train other Iraqi soldiers on the use of communications equipment.

After he finished his 3-year term in the IA, Hassan went back to work with U.S. forces as an interpreter. This position helped him receive a U.S. visa in August 2009.  When asked about his decision to move to the U.S., he stated that at the time, Iraq was not a safe place, and he wanted a good place to raise his children safely.

With the help of a fellow interpreter living in Utah, Hassan moved his wife and 2 children to the U.S. His friend was able to help him out until he got on his feet. “He helped me for a couple of months; then I picked it up from there,” he said.
Hassan was initially worried about whether or not he would be able to find a job, once he got to the U.S.  With reports on the news about high unemployment, he thought it would be several months before he could find a job. 

“The first thing on my mind back then was to get a job, but the situation was not as bad as I thought it would be,” he said.  Hassan found that he had no problem finding work, and that he was able to find a job in just a few weeks after arriving. “I got a job as a driver, then as a medical interpreter, then as a refugee case mgr., for Catholic Community Services. I worked in that job for a year, then decided to join the Army.”

Although Hassan has years of experience as a translator for the U.S. military, he didn't want to be an interpreter when he enlisted in the Army. “My recruiter asked me to join the Army as a linguist,” he said. “I said, ‘Nope, I already did that for 6 years.’ I know how to do it, and I’m not going to go to school for it.’’

Hassan joined the Army to earn his citizenship and help plan for his future life in America. He plans on using his G.I Bill to pay for his wife to go to college. Soon after joining, Hassan found himself back in Iraq - this time wearing the uniform of an American solider. “When I left Baghdad, I wondered when I would see this place again, and 2 years later, here I am,” he said.

Hassan is conducting convoy ops to resupply bases all over Iraq. Although the army trained him to be a petroleum supply specialist, he's working as in interpreter assisting a convoy escort team.  During convoy missions, the 123rd BSB often receives assistance from the Iraqi Federal Police (IFP), and Hassan assists his convoy cmdr., by translating during the coordination process.

The work he's doing now often takes him by many of the places that he worked at as an interpreter, and sometimes even close to his old home, where his mother and brother still live. “It’s hard being that close,” he said, “but I don’t want someone to harm them, because they're my relatives. I don’t want to put them in that situation.” 

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Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/11-07-11

Dear Interested Reader,

Nawa Victory Walk:  Standing on the cusp of transition (part 1 of 4).  Afghan medics improve job skills at FOB Sharana.  Air  ambulance critical asset to ground forces.  Five FOBs, 2 Soldiers and one old-school way of getting thing done.  ISAF Joint Command Evening operational update, Nov. 5, 2011.

Iraq:  The 'Iron Support' Soldiers conduct convoy ops.

Joanna

____________________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

DVIDS

Nawa Victory Walk: Standing on the Cusp of Transition (Part 1 of 4)

Story and photos by Cpl. Jeff Drew

(From left) Wash. native, Lt. Col. Tyler Zagurski, the bn cmdr. of 1st Bn, 9th Marine Regt; Pa. native, Sgt. Maj. Patrick Tracy, bn. sgt. maj. of 1/9; and Ohio native, Capt. Gabe Diana, ops officer of 1/9, sit around a fire at an ANA security outpost called Loy Kolay precinct.  Zagurski, accompanied by members of his unit, patrolled with ANSF through the district to promote a positive Afghan security presence.

Editor’s note: This is the 1st installment in a 4-part series chronicling a trek across Nawa district, called the Nawa Victory Walk, a 4-day, 30-mile patrol by U.S. Marines and ANA soldiers. 

NAWA DISTRICT, Helmand province – They arrived early by vehicle convoy to the small ANA outpost named Dangar, in the northern part of the district. Marines and sailors with 1st Bn., stood beside their Afghan counterparts, ready to depart for the 4-day trek that lay before them. 

The hike would be difficult. Each man carrying more than 60-lbs of body armor, food and water, would be tested; their mental and physical endurance challenged, but if Afghans and Marines have anything in common, it's their ability to endure. The walk joined Afghan Lt. Col. Ahmad, comm. officer, and Marine Lt. Col. Tyler Zagurski, comm. officer, in a patrol across the district to speak with local residents and key leaders, assessing problems, and celebrating successes along the way.

“The Nawa Victory Walk will show that Nawa is safe and secure,” said Zagurski. “The markets are open and the SecFor are welcome to walk and greet people, and celebrate Nawa’s progress.  The Nawa district stands right on the cusp of transition," according to Zagurski. The district is scheduled to be the first area to transition full security responsibility to the GoA in the central Helmand River Valley, because of its progress in security, governance and development. 

MRAP vehicles forged ahead of the patrol, offering additional security along the route. With the vehicles on track, the patrol began, footsteps moving from a thick rocky carpet lining the interior of the patrol base to a sparse gravel road. A crisp fall wind blew, providing temporary comfort to the SecFor pushing down the road. They reached their first stop before many could break a sweat.

A lavish Afghan home rose before the combined forces.  Inside, lush pillows and intricate carpets lined the floor, yet each decoration paled to the smile stretching across the face of Haji Janan, as he welcomed the Afghan soldiers and Marines into his home.

Janan, a local elder in the Haynak area of the district, knows the pain of war. He spoke of his time fighting the Russians, during their invasion of Afghanistan, and displayed his scars, a constant reminder of his time fighting with the Mujahideen. As he spoke, brightly dressed children ushered in hot chai tea, bowls of mangos, and plates of nuts and candy. 

Janan passionately described his dislike for the insurgency, and explained the difficulties of eradicating poppy growth in the area, which insurgents use to fund their activities. He explained that the money made from 1 acre of poppy is equal to approx 100 acres of wheat. He suggested the cultivation of cotton, but admitted it's often expensive to grow. He plans to grow wheat and tomatoes this coming season, but to do so Janan pressed the importance of security for Nawa. 

“Security is our first priority,” said Janan. “When the Marines leave, I think it will be fine, because now it's the locals against the insurgents too.” The officers took their leave after several cups of tea, but not before Janan could offer a promise. “I'm strong in this friendship; anything I can do, I will help,” said Janan. “I can see you're strong in this friendship – this will be an honest friendship.”

“I can always use honest friends,” replied Zagurski. The Afghan soldiers and Marines pushed on down the road. Flak jackets began to dig into their shoulders and water ceased to quench their thirst, but they defied the heat one step at a time. 

Shortly after leaving Janan's house, the security detachment passed a brightly-colored graveyard.  Men, women and children walked along gravel roads and on dirt paths, in between the ornately decorated graves. Suddenly, a distant blast broke the low hum of English and Pashto conversation. Someone had detonated an IED, and sporadic machine-gun fire riddled the air. 

Afghan Local Police (ALP), ANA soldiers and Marines pushed forward toward the danger, providing a heavily-armored and confident barricade between the gunfire and the residents ducking for cover. Screams pierced the air, disrupted only by the crackling gunfire as groups of children in search of safety, raced past the advancing fighting force. 

The ALP ran ahead of the Marines, as they moved between mud compounds and crumbling walls. The SecFor pushed hundreds of meters out into the more desolate desert area, in search of the waning gunfire. The attack had been brief, the aggressors fleeing the scene before they could be apprehended. The incident highlighted the unique nature of the district. While SecFor have driven insurgents away from the more-densely populated areas of Nawa, there are still remote areas of the desert where Afghan forces and Marines are eradicating the dwindling insurgent presence. 

Local Afghan SecFor began an investigation into the incident, and the patrol continued on its journey. The troupe made its second stop at PB Sphin Ghar, shortly after its unexpected detour. Maj. Abdul Latif, cmdr. of the 4th Tolai, similar in size to a Marine co., welcomed them and had a meal prepared for the visiting patrol.  Rice, various meats, spiced vegetables, and beans filled their plates, while the officers discussed security in the area.

Filled and refreshed, the cmdrs. and their security detail continued on – the setting sun presenting a deadline for the day’s movement. They passed canals and farmers working in their cornfields. When they rounded their final turn for the day, a white guard post peaked the horizon, offering solace for the weary group. 

In total, the service members hiked more than 14 ks before 5 p.m. The Marines stripped their body armor once inside the protective walls of precinct Loy Kolay, an ANA security outpost. Soaked in sweat, they broke out a volleyball and played a game before calling it a night, knowing full-well they had a 12-k hike the following day. What adventures the next day would hold – only time would tell.

ANA Lt. Col. Ahmad (third from left), and Lt. Col. Tyler Zagurski (center), patrol through the district during the Nawa Victory Walk. The two commanding officers wanted to show local residents that the roads and markets were safe and security was strong in the area.

Marines patrol alongside ANA soldiers.

Nevada native, Petty Officer 3rd Class Mathew Petersen, a corpsman, provides security.

ANA soldiers set up a vehicle checkpoint along a desert road. The soldiers were on a patrol with Marines when they heard gunfire nearby. The soldiers took the initiative and pushed toward the danger as the Marines followed to lend support if necessary, a testament to the increased security Afghan forces are providing in Nawa.

Marines move through the desert toward the sound of machine-gun fire.

Haji Hayatullah (dressed in white and gray), an ALP cmdr., leads ALP patrolmen toward gunfire in the desert surrounding Nawa.  

(From left) Pa. native, Sgt. Maj. Patrick Tracy, the bn. sgt. maj.; Miss, native Sgt. Preston Davis, the personal safety officer for the battalion cmdr. with 1/9; and Lt. Col. Tyler Zagurski, observe possible targets downrange through rifle scopes at the sound of gunfire in the distance. 

(From left) Local elder Haji Janan; Lt. Col. Tyler Zagurski; and ANA Lt. Col. Ahmad, pose for a photo outside Janan’s home.

ANA Lt. Col. Ahmad (left); and Lt. Col. Tyler Zagurski (second from left), relax in the home of Haji Janan (right). Janan, a local elder, warmly invited the patrolling SecFor for tea and fruit, during their trek across the district.

Afghan children gather near the road to see the ANA soldiers and Marines patrolling through the district. 

ANA soldiers and Marines enter Loy Kolay precinct, an ANA security outpost. 

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Afghan Medics Improve Job Skills at FOB Sharana

Story and photos by Army Pfc. Zackary Root 

ANA Sgt. Zahir Atifi, 52nd Medical Co., applies an intra-venous saline lock to a fellow Afghan Soldier (who's hoping that all goes well!), Oct. 26, during a week-long medical training event on FOB Sharana. 

PAKTIKA PROVINCE – While ANA soldiers are taking the lead in missions conducted around Regional Command-East, they're also taking the brunt of the attacks and injuries sustained here. To mitigate this, ANA combat medics have to be that much more proficient at their craft, to provide adequate medical treatment for their fellow ANA Soldiers.

ANA medics are participating in a week-long medical course, taught by U.S. Army Soldiers from the 172nd Support Bn,  starting Oct. 25. The course is designed to teach basic clinical procedures, minor surgical procedures, first-aid, and treating head trauma and concussions.

“They're doing well and they really appreciate the training,” said Staff Sgt. Sean Segroves, of Germany, a senior medical advisor from the 172nd Support Bn. “A lot of the techniques we're teaching, they haven’t seen or used before.”
According to Segroves, the course is similar to the U.S. Army’s combat lifesaver course (CLS) in length and curriculum, but the class is focused more on trauma, and includes techniques and procedures not learned in CLS.

The class keys in on several different areas of the body, emphasizing procedures and techniques that ANA medics believe are priorities, based on their experiences gained on prior missions. “We've classes for different types of treatment:  head, chest , and abdominal injury. Today we also talked about how to stop bleeding,” said ANA Sgt. Zahir Atifi, a combat medic.

“The hardest part is definitely the language barrier,” said Segroves. “They're willing to learn and they're capable, but going through a translator, something critical I say may be misinterpreted. We're starting a train-the-trainer program,” said Segroves. “The intent is that they're going to bring these skills back to their medical company, and they're going to train their medics on what they learned here.”

“I'm 100% certain that I'm going to bring this training to my ANA people,” said Atifi. With an arsenal of medical techniques and procedures in their tool belt, the ANA are poised to return back to their units, and guide their fellow ANA Soldiers, by sharing the skills they learned here.

“It's important to know that we're not just staying here and doing everything for them,” said Segroves. “We're giving them training for them to train themselves. That way we can step out of the role of the trainer, and they can be the ones to lead their own.”

ANA Sgt. Zahir Atifi teaches his soldiers how to stop the bleeding of a casualty, Oct. 25.

Staff Sgt. Sean Segroves teaches ANA soldiers medical techniques, using a body dummy training aid. 

ANA Sgt. Zahir Atifi applies an enhanced trauma bandage to a U.S. Army sgt., while his soldier watches and helps, Oct. 26.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Air Ambulance Critical Asset to Ground Forces

Story and photos by Army Sgt. Andrea Merritt 

 

Wash. native Spc. Nicole Derk, crew chief with the 3rd Forward Support Medevac Team (FSMT), Co C, 3rd Bn, 82nd CAB, tightens the screws on a UH-60M Black Hawk helicopter tail rotor, during a pre-flight inspection, Oct. 27, at the helicopter pad on FOB Shank. As a crew chief, Derk is mainly responsible for the maintenance of the aircraft. To aid quick response times upon receiving a medevac request, 3rd FSMT Soldiers conduct a thorough inspection of the helicopter and their equipment, stock medical supplies and stage their gear on the aircraft the morning of their shift. On average, the crews are able to take off 5 to 7 minutes after receiving a call.

FORWARD OPERATING BASE SHANK – Around 6:00 p.m. Oct. 27, while Soldiers of the 3rd FSMT sat eating dinner in the office, a voice over the radio uttered the words, “Medevac! Medevac! Medevac!” The crew from Co C, immediately sprang into action, leaving their half-eaten meals behind. They grabbed their equipment and raced down the flight line at top speed to the UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters.

Within 5 minutes, the helicopters took off and flew toward COP Chak, to pick up an ANA soldier who sustained 2nd-degree burns to his face, neck and upper left extremities in a non-combat related incident. “We see a wide range of injuries,” said Louisiana native Sgt. Robert Smith, flight medic with the 3rd FSMT. “Everything from traumatic brain injury, amputations, multiple gunshot wounds, cardiac arrest and heart attacks,to your basic medical illnesses, and we get them to a higher level of care.”

Once the patient was in the aircraft, Smith turned on his red-lensed flashlight and went to work checking his vitals. For a brief moment the ANA soldier awoke, seemingly startled by the shadowy figure with the glowing, red face standing over him. After some reassurance from Smith, he calmed down and drifted back to sleep. The hospital was only a few minutes away.

In less than an hour, the medevac crew responded to the call, picked up the injured ANA soldier, took him to the forward surgical team (FST) at FOB Shank, refueled the aircraft, and returned to base, ready to answer the next call. With elements at FOBs Shank and Ghazni, the 3rd FSMT provides medevac support throughout Logar and Wardak Provs., in support of TF Bulldog.

The 3rd FSMT “All-American Dustoff” Soldiers stand ready to take off at a moment’s notice to reach patients in need of potentially life-saving medical treatment. “Every medevac pilot knows that Dustoff stands for dedicated, unhesitating selfless service to our fighting forces,” said Capt. Adam Ellington, Utah native, and 3rd FSMT plt. leader. “That’s what we provide to the guys on the ground.”

“In the medical field, we have what we call the Platinum Ten and the Golden Hour,” Smith said. “The Platinum Ten is the first line of care provided to a casualty within the first ten minutes of an injury. If they contact us immediately, and we get the patient to the FST within the Golden Hour, it raises their chances of survival exponentially,” Smith explained.

Throughout the day, a Soldier mans the desk and scans the messaging traffic between ground forces and higher HQ. If a 9-line medevac request comes up in their area of op (AO), the medevac crew already has a heads up, and can start preparing before the actual call comes in.

“Teamwork and good communication are the most important things,” Smith said. “Our crew has strong teamwork. We can handle things thrown our way. Without teamwork, the mission could fall apart.” In a 24-hour period, the crew responded to 2 medevac requests. If they weren’t out on a mission, they were conducting unit business; all the while, their radios within reach to listen for the call that could possibly save someone’s life.

“I love my job,” said Md. native Spc. Bryan Heaston, crew chief with the 3rd FSMT. “It feels good to get Soldiers off the battlefield.  Sometimes, we risk our lives going in, and to be able to save them makes it worth it.”

Sgt. Robert Smith, flight medic, makes sure his headset is operational during a pre-flight inspection, Oct. 27 at the helicopter pad.

N.J. native Staff Sgt. Mitchell Bethke, medic and plt. sgt., prepares to collect a fuel sample from a UH-60M Black Hawk helicopter, as part of a pre-flight inspection. The morning of their shift, 3rd FSMT Soldiers conduct a thorough inspection of the helicopter and their equipment, stock medical supplies and stage their gear on the aircraft. “During checks, we look at our medical equipment and make sure it’s ready to go. We make sure the quantities are stocked and secured in the back, check the surge breakers, clean windows and take fuel samples,” Bethke said. “I check the color and clarity and make sure the sample is free of sediment and water.” 

Spc. Bryan Heaston, crew chief, makes sure his headset is working during a pre-flight inspection. As a crew chief, Heaston is responsible for the maintenance of the aircraft. 

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DVIDS

Five FOBs, Two Soldiers, and One Old-School Way of Getting Things Done

Story by Spc. Nicole Newton

First Lt. Jason Capps, officer-in-charge of the 230th Signal Co's 5 distant signal support teams (DSSTs), negotiates with other units here at Kandahar to acquire mission essential equipment to send to his DSSTs, who are spread across Afghanistan.  (Photos by Staff Sgt. Richard Lutz)

KANDAHAR AIRFIELD – Her mission was up in the air from the get go. She changed military occupation specialties, changed plts., and changed roles multiple times, and that was all before leaving Tenn., for the upcoming mission in Afghanistan. 

When Spc. Kimberley Espey raised her hand and volunteered to deploy with the 230th Signal Co, she had no idea how important she and her military logistics background would become to the overall mission in Afghanistan.  After cross training with various plts., and changing roles as the mission needs of her changed, Espey still had a smile on her face, and a work ethic most would look upon with awe. First in the office and last to leave on most days, it wasn’t long before she found her niche assisting the officer-in-charge of the 5 DSSTs, 1st Lt. Jason Capps; a job that we would all come to realize, fit her as perfectly as she fit the needs of the job. “That’s when I realized all the skills I’ve ever acquired, on both the military and the civilian sides, came into play,” Espey said, as she described her new role.

Despite being built years ago, most of the DSST locations where 230th soldiers were re-locating, to take over signal ops, were still very primitive, from being mishandled by inhabitants before them. The teams of 7 found themselves thinking about essentials like housing and equipment, in addition to their primary duties of taking over for the previous unit. “One unit is supposed to set up another, to help another, and so on,” said Espey. “It wasn’t like that when we arrived here.” 

Faults cannot always be placed on the unit leaving; handing over ops to a new unit is a complicated process. As one packs up to leave theater, another arrives to pick ops up where the other left off. Equipment and supplies are transferred to the new unit via paperwork, but the unit being replaced by the 230th didn’t have much to pass along, except a handful of troubles that were handed to them. 

“Back door deals happen sometimes, and things don’t always go the way they are supposed to.” Capps said. “We fell in on the result of that.” Instead of trying to trace back and redo the deals that had been done, the tandem got right to work in getting their teams set up for success. The first 2 items on the agenda were acquiring vehicles for troop and equipment transport, and giving personal attention to the 5 FOB’s that were in desperate need.

With a forward thinking mentality, Espey went to the USO and started networking, a skill that has proven to be quite valuable to the 230th. Her first order of business: 2 LMTV’s - large vehicles that could be used to haul lumber and equipment for the DSST’s, and with Afghanistan’s rainy season just around the corner, may become a necessity for troop transportation and mission movements.

The timing couldn’t have been better. “As soon as we got the LMTV’s we started getting requests from the DSST teams,” she said. “It started small with nails, then wood for housing.” The need for the materials was present, but processes were in place that needed to be followed. It required assembly of large paperwork packets, meetings with military boards, and a justification of needs. It’s an extensive process that ends with legal ownership of the equipment acquired by the unit. 

“The order process takes months,” Espey said. “Everywhere I turned, people said it couldn’t be done. The stuff we needed wasn’t available.” This wasn’t the answer the team of 2 would accept as their final, and the long timeline was something the 230th Signal Co just didn’t have.

“If we don’t send our teams the materials they need,” said Capps, “they aren’t going to have a place to live, or a proper place to work.  They're going to be out there roughing it.” So off they went, to leverage those business relationships they both made just a few weeks before. “We got creative and we made it happen,” said Espey. “We went out knocking on doors again.”

Together they were able to barter with other units here, acquire things those units would be leaving behind, and send the materials out to their DSSTs. “Imagine going back to the Old West, everyone lives and works in close proximity, and everyone has to work together to get things done.” Capps said. “It’s a barter and trade system, but the one with the most ‘stuff’ has the most control.” 

Some of it they needed, some of it they didn’t, but all of it can be used to barter - to help create a win/win situation for everyone. It’s already begun to build strong friendships between those living together at the FOBs. “Acquire as much stuff as possible, and get it out to those guys,” Capps said. “You want to set your people up for that kind of success.”

Thanks to this dynamic duo, the 230th Signal Company’s 5 DSST locations are now getting a much needed facelift.
“We’ve got all this wood out there, that we’ve traded for other stuff we need,” said Spc. David Moffet, DSST soldier. 
“We’ve got a sub-division, friendly neighborhood type thing going on at Camp Stone.”

Espey beams with pride and relates the whole experience back to her family, a mentality that runs deep in all National Guard soldiers, when she spoke about the DSST’s with endearment. “I’m a mother, so the DSSTs are like my kids. They need food, shelter, and they need their play toys,” she said with a smile.

Spc. Kimberley Espey and 1st Lt. Jason Capps, 230th Signal Company's dynamic duo, meet with various units here at Kandahar to acquire needed equipment.

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DVIDS

ISAF Joint Command Evening Operational Update, Nov. 5, 2011

ISAF Joint Command 

North

KUNDUZ PROVINCE -- A coalition SecFor discovered a cache of unexploded ordinance in Kunduz district, today. The cache consisted of 20 40mm grenades, 40 30mm cannon casings, and one 130mm casing. 

BADAKHSHAN PROVINCE -- Acting on a tip by a local national, CF discovered a weapons cache in Faizabad district,  today. The cache consisted of 29 RPGs.

South

KANDAHAR PROVINCE — In Maiwand district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained several insurgents and seized a narcotics cache, during an op, yesterday. The SecFor seized 1,254-lbs (570 kgs) of opium, during the op.

HELMAND PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor seized a narcotics cache during an op to disrupt an insurgent network in Washer district, yesterday. The op seized 1,430-lbs (650 kgs) of opium, which was safely destroyed on site.

East

BAMYAN PROVINCE -- A local national led a coalition SecFor to a weapons cache in Kahmard district, today. The cache consisted of 5 82mm recoilless rifle rockets, 6 73mm rockets, 13 85mm rockets, 6 other rockets, and 400 12.7mm rounds. 

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IRAQI STORY:

The 'Iron Support' Soldiers Conduct Convoy Operations

Story by Staff Sgt. Mike Norris

CENTRAL IRAQ - Every solider in Iraq needs water, food, and equipment in order to perform their mission. For some, these things just seem to appear out of the blue, but the soldiers of the 123rd BSB, 4th AAB, 1st AR Div, know different. The ‘Iron Support’ soldiers work day in and day out to ensure that U.S. forces across central Iraq have everything that they need to accomplish their mission. One way they do this is by providing security for resupply convoys.

Although the 123rd BSB is comprised of fuel handlers, mechanics, medics and logistics specialists, many of these sustainment soldiers provide a service traditionally conducted by combat arms troops – convoy escort teams. The logisticians receive special training, like the convoy cmdr’s course, which provides convoy cmdrs. the skills needed to plan and execute convoy security ops, in order to conduct this mission.

“This mission is complex on multiple levels,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Saeed Mustafa, command sgt. maj. for 123rd BSB, 4th AAB, 1st AR Div. The soldiers who are assigned to the lead truck of the convoy escort team know the dangers of the mission, and are well trained to stay safe during this type of op.

Sgt. Carlos Gaxiola, a petroleum supply specialist with the 123rd BSB, was selected by Mustafa to be a truck cmdr. for the lead truck. The decision to assign him to command the lead truck was a deliberate decision. This is Gaxiola’s 2nd deployment as a truck cmdr., and he has experience working in a lead truck. He and his crew start working several hours before the convoy starts, to ensure all of their equipment is functional before the mission.

NCOs on the team check equipment after the crew has done their checks. Every piece of equipment that will be on the convoy is checked and double-checked, with Mustafa overseeing the entire process. This ensures that the lead truck and the rest of the convoy vehicles, are completely ready for any threats that might arise during the convoy.

“There is only a small element that wants to do harm to us,” said Mustafa. “If they try, it's our job to fight and defend the convoy.” After the checks are completed, it's time for the convoy escort teams to lead a convoy comprised of several large trucks, loaded with equipment, outside the wire.

Gaxiola and his crew call up any activity they see in the front, so that there are no surprises for any of the trucks behind him. They also maintain the speed of the convoy, keeping at a nice slow pace, which allows them to see any threats that might be along the route. This pace also gives drivers time to react to the traffic around them.

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Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/11-06-11

Dear Interested Reader,

An American medic in a French tale.  Afghan women learn life saving techniques.  PRT Laghman goes shopping in Mehtar Lam.  AFCENT band "Top Cover' performs for troops.  Combined force captures Haqqani leader.  ISAF Joint Command operational update, Nov. 5, 2011.

Iraq:  15k Tulsa Run at Joint Base Balad.

Joanna

_________________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

RC-East, Bagram Media Center

An American Medic in a French Tale

Written by French Army 1st Lt. Aurélie Lattès

Staff Sgt. Erin Gipson (left), receives a letter of commendation from French officers and Soldiers of Battle Group 15/2, TF La Fayette, Oct. 28. Gipson, a flight medic, lowered herself from a hovering helicopter to save the life of a French private. (Army photos by Spc. Kenneth Scar)

BAGRAM AIRFIELD — In eastern Afghanistan’s Surobi’s District, Kapisa Prov., Oct. 4, insurgent machine gun fire tore into the throat of French Pvt. 1st Class Kevin V., during Op Rapier II.  French military rules prohibit the complete ID of deployed French troops.

French Master Cpl. Michael M., a combat life saver with French Battle Group 15/2, immediately reached his position.
“The bullet pierced his larynx without touching artery or vertebra,” said Master Cpl. Michael.  “Suddenly, while we were evacuating him to what was supposed to be the helicopter landing zone, he fell unconscious.”

  Their position was under insurgent fire a few minutes before, and the threat of enemy coming back was real; the medical evacuation helicopter meant for the wounded French trooper couldn't land. The decision the American medevac team from 3rd Bn, 82nd CAB made, hovering over Hill 2470, weighed risk against the life of the French private.

Staff Sgt. Erin Gipson, a flight medic from Ohio, with TF Poseidon, attached herself to the UH-60 Blackhawk’s external winch and began the descent to the mountain’s slope. “Surprises always come in small packages,” laughed Maj. Graham Bundy, from N.C., Gipson’s company cmdr. 

As Kevin regained consciousness, he saw Gipson come down from the sky and lift him to safety. He whispered later that she looked like an angel to him. The French Soldier is considered a lucky man.  With help from the U.S. flight medics, he was immediately flown to a Coalition hospital in Kabul, where a specialist began surgery.  He's now able to eat and speak.

“This is an amazing story; almost too good to be true, but there it is,” said French Col. Jean d’heur, cmdr. of French Battle Group 15/2.  For her part in the rescue, Col. Jean d’heur, along with Kevin’s company cmdr., plt. leader, and Master Cpl. Michael, presented Gipson with a letter of commendation in a small ceremony, Oct. 28, on Bagram. For the French Soldiers of TF La Fayette, Gipson has become their combat angel.

 

Staff Sgt. Erin Gipson shakes hands with the French company cmdr., along with French Col. Jean d’heur (center), cmdr. of French Battle Group 15/2. 

French Col. Jean d’heur presents Staff Sgt. Erin Gipson a gift of appreciation, for her rescue efforts that saved the life of one of his men.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Afghan Women Learn life-Saving Techniques

Written by AF 1st Lt Cammie Quinn

AF medics, Staff Sgt. April DeLuna (right), from Texas, assigned to the Paktya PRT, and Tech. Sgt. Rebecca Rose, from Neb., assigned to the Nebraska ADT, demonstrate proper arm-bracing techniques at the Provincial Women’s Development Center, Nov. 1. The medics taught basic first-aid skills to 13 women from the prov. (Army photos by Maj. Katherine Williams)

PAKTYA PROVINCE -- Servicemembers assigned to the Paktya PRT and the Nebraska ADT, both located on FOB Goode, taught the women how to treat burns, lacerations and abrasions.  During the 1-hour course, the medics emphasized proper hygiene techniques, such as hand washing, and the use of gloves while treating wounds. 

“The women learned the ‘cold, clean’ method,” DeLuna said. “They’d never heard to clean with cold, clean water, and were using alternative methods to treat wounds.” The women shared stories about their previous home-medical treatments during the shura. “I’ve used cold potatoes on my children’s wounds to stop the burning,” one student said. “Potatoes and egg yolk both help to prevent the burn from spreading.”

Along with the training, the group also received first-aid medical kits stocked with bandages, a gauze compress, gloves, antibiotic ointment and other supplies. The shura was coordinated through Khalema Khazan, the Paktya Director of Women’s Affairs DOWA, and the Team Paktya Women’s Advocacy Group. 

The DOWA is an Afghan ministry-appointed position, with the authority and obligation to raise awareness of concerns, and advocate for Afghan women. “I want a common understanding for every woman to know their rights and freedoms under Islam,” Khazan said. “We have shuras in the Women’s Development Center for Paktya women, to teach them important skills.”

In the past, Khazan has organized town meetings, or ‘shuras,’ health workshops and media engagements for women in Paktya. “Education is very important,” she added. “Our center is focused on teaching the more than 40,000 women in Paktya.”

Khalema Khazan, Paktya DOWA, takes notes during first-aid training.                    

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

PRT Laghman Goes Shopping in Mehtar Lam

Written by AF Capt. Tony Vincelli

Sgt. Sean Matthews, assigned to Co A, 1st Bde, 182nd Inf Regt of the R.I. National Guard, provides security for key personnel assigned to the Laghman PRT in Mehtar Lam, Oct. 24. (AF photos by Staff Sgt. Ryan Crane)

LAGHMAN PROVINCE -- Soldiers and Airmen from Laghman PRT shopped the streets of Mehtar Lam, to connect with locals, and assess economic conditions. “The purpose of the 2-hour walk was to get a sense of the perception of the PRT’s role in provincial development, assess the variety of goods sold by local merchants, and lay a foundation for future market walks not only in Mehtar Lam, but across the prov.,” said Spc. Sabrina Archuleta, a Laghman PRT civil affairs Soldier from N.M. “What they buy and sell, and to see the pride they take in what they produce, says a lot about the culture here in Laghman, and we're here to learn.” 

The group of civilians, Afghan, and CF along with their interpreters, passed dozens of merchants at the bazaar, a collection of permanent storefronts and makeshift sales stands.  Archuleta stated that their mission to Mehtar Lam is the first of many, and will give civil affairs a clearer picture of economic conditions in the area.

Laghman prov. is known as a regional agricultural center, with lush river valleys, long growing season, and an economy heavily supported by farming . The market boasts a wide variety of local produce, ranging from bananas to sugarcane. Many merchants sold industrial products, wooden furniture and textiles. “It was a lot like a farmer’s market, with people selling all sorts of goods and taking pride in ownership in how they presented their goods,” Archuleta said.

Civil affairs team leader Capt. Brian Love from Ariz., has an appreciation for the scene in Mehtar Lam.  Love deployed to Laghman Prov. in 2005.  He said he was encouraged by how busy the markets were, and how he and the other Soldiers were treated during the mission. “We’re able to conduct a mission without being intrusive, and they responded favorably to us being there,” said Love.  “At first they were hesitant to talk to us until we began to ask questions about their products; then they opened up.”

“As opposed to a convoy of tactical vehicles rolling through the city’s center on the way to or from another mission, a market walk provides a better chance to connect with people,” said Love. “The people get to see our faces and interact with us, and we get to see them instead of staring at the inside of our trucks, as our convoys roll through town.”

 

Capt. Brian Love, of Ariz., civil affairs team leader for the Laghman PRT, tours a bazaar in Mehtar Lam. The 2-hour walking tour of the city’s main shopping area, is the first of many missions designed to gain a better understanding of local economic conditions.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

AFCENT Band ‘Top Cover’ Performs for Troops

Photos by AF Senior Airman Wesley Farnsworth

PAKTYA PROVINCE -- AF Tech. Sgt. Dennis Pack, AF Central Command band ‘Top Cover’ NCO-in-charge, from Idaho, plays for the troops on FOB Gardez, Oct. 28. The band is conducting a tour of 7 countries, with more than 80 scheduled performances.

AF Airman 1st Class Philip Runge, guitarist, from Texas. The band was invited to play as part of a morale day. 

AF Central Command band ‘Top Cover’, from Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, plays for the troops.

AF Tech. Sgt. Amber Grimes, singer, from Okla.

AF 1st Lt. Cammie Quinn (right), PRT Paktya PA officer, from Texas, dances to the tunes. Quinn, who organized the event, is one of more than 50 Airman and Soldiers that attended the concert.

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ISAF Release

Combined Force Captures Haqqani Leader

By Army Spc. Leslie Goble

LAGHMAN – The ANA and CF captured Rashid Ahmad Arshad, a known Haqqani facilitator, at a traffic control point in southern Laghman Prov., Nov. 3. Arshad aided Haqqani by moving weapons and contraband throughout eastern Afghanistan. Combined forces set up the traffic control point after receiving info of insurgent movement in the area.
Arshad and 2 other individuals were taken into Coalition custody, after they were positively identified as insurgents wanted for questioning.  Arshad remains in Coalition custody. 

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DVIDS

ISAF Joint Command Operational Update, Nov. 5, 2011

ISAF Joint Command- Afghanistan
  
South
 
KANDAHAR PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor captured a Taliban weapons facilitator, and detained multiple suspected insurgents in Dand district, yesterday. The facilitator distributed weapons and ammo in the district. He also participated in roadside bomb and direct fire attacks against Afghan and CF. 
 
East 

PAKTIYA PROVINCE  — A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor captured a Haqqani network leader in Sayyid Karam district, Nov. 4. The leader commands insurgent roadside bombings, direct fire attacks, and is directly responsible for attacks against Afghan and CF in the Sayyid Karam and Gardez districts. An additional suspected insurgent was detained.
  
LOGAR PROVINCE -- In Pul-e 'Alam district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Haqqani network leader, yesterday. The leader directs roadside bomb attacks against Afghan and CF in the region, as well as acquires weapons and roadside bombs for his network.
 
KHOST PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained 2 suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Haqqani network facilitator in Khost district, yesterday. The facilitator plans and conducts attacks against Afghan and CF, as well as conducts kidnappings in the district. 

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IRAQI STORY:

DVIDS

15K Tulsa Run at Joint Base Balad

Written by Senior Airman Chuck Broadway

Members of the 125 Expeditionary Fighter Sqdn prepare to run their version of the 2011 Tulsa 15K Run, Oct. 29, 2011. The Tulsa Run is in its 34th year, and is the oldest and largest such event in Oklahoma. This was the 2nd time the Iraq version of the Tulsa run was completed. The first was in 2008 at Joint Base Balad. (AF photo by Master Sgt. Cecilio Ricardo)

JOINT BASE BALAD -- The 125th EFS is primarily made of members from the Oklahoma Air N.G.’s 138th Fighter Wing in Tulsa, Okla. The sqdn. also includes members from the Ohio Air N.G.’s 180th Fighter Wing in Toledo, Ohio, and the Arizona Air N.G.’s 160th Fighter Wing in Tucson, Ariz. 

Lt. Col. Rick Poplin, 125th EFS cmdr., organized both the 2008 and 2011 events. “It’s a little piece of home for us while we’re deployed,” said Poplin, an Okla. native, and annual participant in the stateside run. “I’ve run the Tulsa race many years, and I’m not going to miss it just because I’m gone.” 

In 2008 at JB Balad, more than 600 runners competed in the event. This year, with OND coming to a close, Poplin was only able to round up 17 members of the 125th EFS to brave chilly temps and brisk winds to complete the 9.3 mile course. “I’m happy with the people that came out,” said Poplin. “We can’t get everybody out here, because of our 24-hour ops, but it was good to see all those who did come out and have some fun.” 

“I’ve run this with my mom since I was a kid,” said Maj. Blake Cook, 125th EFS F-16 pilot from Okla. “It’s great to continue the tradition while my mom, who is 66 years old, is running the race back in Tulsa.” Cook has run several Tulsa events alongside Poplin. Even though he’s stationed at the 162nd Fighter Wing in Tuscon, Ariz., Cook found himself on the starting line for another race with old friends while deployed to Iraq. 

For the 2011 run in Iraq, Poplin, Cook and Master Sgt. Brad Nelson, 125th EFS senior controller from Okla., paced the field with a time of 1:17:00. “This year, we just picked a time and place with having fun as our only goal,” said Poplin after completing the course. “Today we ran and talked the entire 15 ks -- it was really fun. Everyone who came out today was a winner for just showing up. For many, it was the longest distance they'd ever ran, and it’s quite an accomplishment.” 

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Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/11-05-11

Dear Interested Reader,

Police cmdr. held captive, returns to fight insurgents.  2nd MLG moves north along 611, supports 'Eastern Storm.'  FET visits Raj Girls' school in Farah.  'Muleskinners' take command of sust. ops.  ISAF Joint Command operational update, Nov. 4, 2011.

Iraq:  Partners in Security:  In the air and on the ground, at Camp Taji.

Joanna

_________________________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

DVIDS

Police Commander held Captive, Returns to Fight Insurgents

Story and photo by Sgt. Earnest Barnes

Second Lt. Gul Alam, 35, a cmdr. with the Afghan National Civil Order Police (ANCOP), was captured by the Taliban in 1997, beaten and tortured daily for 21 months. Now he serves the Afghan people fighting against the Taliban once more.

MARJAH DISTRICT, Helmand province — In the late 1990s when the Taliban seized Afghanistan’s capital city of Kabul, the country was plagued with territorial and religious micro wars. The nationalists of Afghanistan, led by Gen. Ahmad Massoud, stood up against their extremist opposition to take back their country. One native of Baghlan prov., fought along-side his countrymen and was captured, but unlike most who fell into the hands of the Taliban, he lived to tell the story.

Second Lt. Gul Alam was one of the Mujahidin, or freedom fighters, under Massoud, who was famed for his leadership during the Soviet-Afghan War in the 1980s. Alam took up arms at 25, when floods of insurgent forces poured into his homeland.  Alam moved with other Mujahidin fighters from Baghlan over the range of snow-peaked mountains to the southeast, to Panjshir prov., which was the HQ and stronghold of the Mujahidin. He and the men with him were holding a forward position to combat the Taliban forces, that were quickly spreading throughout the country. 

“Twelve thousand Taliban fighters attacked Panjshir,” said Alam. “In the Koran it says that if a man has one gray hair he should be respected because he is wise,” said Alam. “They were beating the elders with rifles and hitting them with cords. The Taliban only have an idea of Islam, but they're not Muslim people.”

Alam said he was one of 100 men from his village taken captive. All the prisoners were tortured and beaten for info. 
“They would hit me on the bottom of my feet. I counted they hit me 70, maybe 80 times, and I closed my eyes,” Alam explained. “I thought they stopped and they were trying to scare me with bigger cables. I opened my eyes, and they were still hitting me, but I could not feel my feet anymore.”

“They hit me a lot compared to other people, because when they asked me why I was working for Mujahidin or Massoud, I tell them, ‘I'm not working with Massoud; I'm just a shop keeper,” said Alam. “Then I told them, ‘You guys are coming from Pakistan to Afghanistan, I have to defend my province and my country.’ 

“They beat me even more. The Taliban were like animals; they were not like humans,” said Alam as he recalled his treatment. The prisoners were moved several times throughout their captivity, but they were finally placed in Kandahar prov. The insurgents eventually began to negotiate with the families for release in exchange for ransom. 

“My family would come every 3 to 6 months and give the Taliban money. They gave the Taliban 12 million Afghani,” said Alam, noting that he wasn't released after several payments. “They again paid 11 million Afghani; then I was released.” 

All of the families from Alam’s village followed suit, and also paid the 23 million Afghani in ransom, which equates to just over $4,000 in 1997, while the average Afghan family earns only $450 a year. The family members sold their land and livestock to pay off the captors. Alam returned home after 21 months in captivity, only after his family sold off nearly everything they owned. 

Alam continued to fight against the Taliban after his release. When the Taliban govt was ousted by CF forces in 2001, Alam secured a job under the GoA with the MoD, but the new Afghan govt wanted someone with more education in his position than what he had. 

Alam still wanted to serve his country and fight against what was left of the insurgency. It was at this point that he made the decision to join the ANCOP.  He said he's "very proud to work as a cmdr., because ANCOP is a special unit of the Afghan police. He worked his way up through the ranks, and was selected for his current assignment as an ANCOP cmdr.  Alam commands a Tolai, or company, of patrolmen in the Marjah area. His patrolmen stand post in the greater Marjah area to ensure the security of the city’s residents. 

“I’m trying to do a good work for my country, and I believe we should help the poor people, and those who've been in war,” said Alam. “We're here to help them.” Alam meets with local govt officials in the area, and addresses any concerns they may have, while creating ways to improve security. He also regularly visits his patrolmen at their various posts around the city.

“He always goes out to the positions checking on his men, making sure they have what they need,” said Staff Sgt. Joshua Morris, a Colo. native, and a plt. sgt. with Kilo Co, 3rd Bn, 6th Marine Regt.  Morris often works with Alam as a liaison, and teaches Alam’s men how to properly coordinate with their bn., track logistics, and disperse gear according to their personnel rosters.  Morris said that he sees the impact Alam makes in the community, and the people of Marjah respect him.

‘The fact that he had to go through 21 months of capture and whatever type of abuse and torture, come out, and still be willing to go up against insurgents again, when it's possible to be held captive again, is pretty impressive,” said Morris, 28. “A guy that’s got that kind of dedication to his country and the people, to me, is held in the highest regard.”

Alam said he likes working in ANCOP because he has the opportunity to travel throughout Afghanistan. “I heard the Taliban wanted to come back to Afghanistan, and they want to make peace, but I don't believe them,” said Alam. “It's unacceptable for them to come back to our country. If I have moment left in my life, I will fight them.”

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DVIDS

2nd MLG Moves North along 611, Supports ‘Eastern Storm’

Story by 2nd Lt. James Stenger

Marines with Combat Logistics Bn 6, and 7th Engineer Support Bn, 2nd Marine Logistics Group (Fwd), unload supplies at PB Alcatraz, Helmand province, in support of Op Eastern Storm, Aug. 26. PB Alcatraz is just one example of the several building projects along Route 611 that provide coalition and ANSF the ability to protect the local populace.  (Photos by Sgt. Justin Shemanski)

CAMP LEATHERNECK – Marines are pushing north on Route 611, building patrol bases, COPs, and village stability platforms in support of TF Leatherneck and Op Tofan Sharq (Eastern Storm). “We will run combat logistics patrols on this route, in order to resupply the forces of TF Leatherneck,” said Lt. Col. Ralph Rizzo, comm. officer of CLB-6.

An increased coalition and ANSF presence on the road has already helped to deter the Taliban from inhabiting these key areas of Helmand. The structures being built along Route 611 benefit CF and ANSF alike. According to Lt. Col. Daniel Dubbs, 7th ESB comm. officer, these structures will be a place where Marines and their Afghan counterparts can conduct operational planning, and take some needed rest. 

“With a constant presence in the Upper Sangin Valley, Kajaki, and along Route 611, CF have the ability to maintain overwatch of critical infrastructure, interact with local Afghans and elders, and provide the civilian population with security,” said Dubbs.

Village stability platforms are specifically designed to protect local populations from dangerous insurgent activity, and host key leader engagements (KLEs), where village elders and senior coalition leaders meet to ensure that village needs are being met.

“Freedom of movement for the Afghan people will mean greater access to commerce and trade, which are critical to development and stability,” said Rizzo. Combat logistics patrols have already experienced a great change in the way local residents react to us, like people waving and children giving thumbs-up,” he concluded.

A local Afghan boy looks on as Marines with 7th ESB, 2nd MLG (Fwd), build a causeway near FOB Sabit Qadam. 

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DVIDS

FET Visits Raj Girls' School in Farah

By Capt. Bonnie Hutchinson

A young Afghan girl from Raj Girls' School shares a smile with her classmate, during a visit from TF Lonestar, 2nd BCT, 4th ID, Female Engagement Team (FET), Oct. 25. The TF Lonestar FET and “Jester” Plt, HHC, 2nd STB, 2nd BCT, 4th ID, visited the school to meet with the leadership and pass out school supplies. “Handing out school supplies is only the beginning of our working relationship with the Raj Girls' School,” said Capt. Orande Roy, HHC cmdr.

FARAH – The visit started with a meeting between the school principal, Raj shura leader, TF Lonestar FET, and the Jester Plt. leadership, in regards to the needs of the school. “As the female population continues to be afforded the opportunity to attend school, it's vital that we reach out and help a historically sidelined population,” said Capt. Christina Stieber, FET member and bn. physician asst. “These young girls have so much potential to improve not only their lives, but the lives of every citizen of Afghanistan, and we should encourage the entire population of Afghanistan to support them.” 

After the meeting, the FET handed out school supplies and interacted with the students. “As we continue to visit the Raj Girls' School, it's our goal to get to know the female students on a more individual level,” said Spc. Vijayta Waskul, FET member and combat medic. “The better we get to know them and their respective backgrounds, the better we'll be able to assist them.” 

“Handing out school supplies is only the beginning of our working relationship with the Raj Girls' School,” said Capt. Orande Roy, HHC cmdr. “Jester Plt., in partnership with the school principal and Raj shura leader, plan to look at long-term fixes that are sustainable for the future, as Afghanistan transitions to a more independent, sovereign and proud nation. I'm very humbled and proud to be a part of this effort,” Roy said.

Spc. Vijayta Waskul shakes hands with a student.

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DVIDS

‘Muleskinners’ Take Command of Sustainment Operations

Story by Sgt. 1st Class Luis Saavedra

Col. Kurt Ryan, cmdr. of the 10th Sust Bde (left), and Command Sgt. Maj. Jose Castillo, Bde's senior enlisted advisor, uncase the bde. colors, during a transfer of authority ceremony, Nov. 1, at Bagram Air Field. TF Muleskinners assumed authority from the out going 101st Sust Bde. (Photo by Sgt. Cory Thatcher)

BAGRAM AIR FIELD – Hundreds of soldiers gathered to witness a moment in history as one great org. transferred authority to another. Soldiers, ready to return home to their families, joined their replacements for a final ceremony prior to departing. The 101st Sust Bde “Lifeliners” - from Fort Campbell, Ky. - relinquished their authority over sustainment ops in Regional Command North, East and Capitol, to the 10th Sust Bde “Muleskinners” - from Fort Drum, N.Y.

“101st Sust Bde, your mission is complete,” said Brig.Gen. Les Carroll, the cmdr. of Joint Sust Command – Afghanistan. “Well done.” Carroll welcomed the Muleskinner; then let them know it was their turn to step up to the plate. “The mission is now yours,” said Carroll.

In preparation for the deployment, soldiers assigned to the 10th SBDE completed mission essential task training, and field exercises designed to simulate the operational environment they would face in Afghanistan.  After arriving in theater, the Muleskinners took a few days to focus on learning, from the challenges the Lifeliners encountered during their tour. Muleskinners watched and conducted tasks alongside their counterparts, and soon were performing every task themselves, with Lifeliners observing to ensure a smooth transition. 

Col. Michael Peterman, the cmdr. of the 101st SBDE, made it apparent that his logisticians cared about the soldiers, civilians, and coalition partners in Afghanistan. “We took care of teammates, not customers,” said Peterman.

Sustainment brigades have a unique and challenging mission in Afghanistan. The terrain is harsh and mountainous, and the weather plays a role in how supplies are moved. Ground and air assets are on the move daily to ensure that every warrior on the battlefield has the necessary equipment to accomplish their mission.

10th SBDE is now responsible for managing everything from finance to the mortuary affairs team; transporting and tracking mail, equipment parts, food, fuel, personnel and ammo, in over half of Afghanistan’s area of ops (AO).

Muleskinners can trace their heritage back to the Alpine Infantrymen, and their pack mules that formed the mountain medical, quartermaster and ordnance maintenance bns, which supported the 10th ID during World War II.  Since then, the brigade has also conducted ops in Somalia, Haiti, Bosnia, Kosovo, Iraq and numerous other places all around the world.

The 10th SBDE faces the challenge of supporting more than 10 bdes. spread throughout the various regional commands. The job is nothing new, as the brigade has served in Afghanistan twice before. Col. Kurt Ryan, the cmdr. of the 10th Sust Bde., spoke to the troops and left no doubt on anybody’s mind that the Muleskinner team is ready. “Now is our time and we're prepared; we're the team,” said Ryan.

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ISAF Joint Command Operational Update, Nov. 4, 2011

ISAF Joint Command - Afghanistan

South
 
HELMAND PROVINCE -- In Nawah-ye Barakzai district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban leader, yesterday. The leader operates a roadside bomb and insurgent fighter cell, distributes equipment and weapons for attacks throughout the region. 

----- During a routine security op in Kajaki district, a coalition SecFor observed 2 insurgents emplacing an IED, yesterday. Assessing an imminent threat, the force requested close air support to engage the insurgent position.
 
URUZGAN PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and CF discovered a weapons cache, during an op in Tarin Kot district,  yesterday. The cache consisted of 6 82 mm mortars.
 
East 

PAKTIKA PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor captured a Haqqani network leader and detained a suspected insurgent, during an op in Zarghun Shahr district, yesterday. The leader operated an insurgent fighter cell in Zarghun Shahr district, and was responsible for numerous attacks against Afghan forces in western Paktika. 
 
LAGHMAN PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor captured a senior Haqqani official and detained 2 additional suspected insurgents, during an op in Qarghah'i district, yesterday. The official has ties to both the Haqqani network and al Qaida, and directly supports insurgent activity in Kabul prov. 
 
NANGARHAR PROVINCE -- In Mohmand Darah district, a coalition SecFor discovered 300 gallons (1,136 liters) of ammonium nitrate in an abandoned semi-trailer near the Afghanistan-Pakistan border, yesterday. Upon further inspection of the vehicle, and review of the shipping documents found inside, the SecFor confirmed the truck's
contents did not match the documentation. As a result, the SecFor coordinated with ANSF, who confiscated the vehicle and its contents.
  
West
 
FARAH PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and CF discovered a weapons cache, during a routine op in Bala Boluk district, yesterday. The cache consisted of 11 82 mm mortars, 2 40 mm grenades, a 30 mm grenade, and 60 rocket engines for RPGs.

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IRAQI STORY:

DVIDS

Partners in Security: In the Air and on the Ground

By Capt. Justin Kelly

Capt. Andrew Eggers, of the 6th Sqdn, 17th Cav Regt from Fort Wainwright, Alaska, walks with an Iraqi soldier on the Camp Taji airfield, Oct. 23, 2011. Soldiers from the 6-17 Cav. conducted a week of training with their Iraqi counterparts, who are preparing to take over the security mission from the cavalry.  (Photos by Spc. Darriel Swatts)

CAMP TAJI – Soldiers from the 6th Sqdn recently had the opportunity to greatly affect the future of Iraqi armed recon, and the greater aviation community. The 6-17th Cav. is a scout recon helicopter sqdn. The unit’s fast-flying OH-58 Kiowa helicopters have been patrolling the skies of Iraq for much of 2011, in support of Op New Dawn. 

During the week of Oct. 17, the sqdn. conducted training with pilots and ground support personnel from the IA’s 21st Helicopter Sqdn. The training included topics ranging from air-ground integration to rocket loading and safe armament procedures. This training is expected to better prepare the 21st Sqdn. for the future, as the unit nears full readiness to assume the 6-17’s mission in Iraq. Currently, the mission of the 21st Sqdn is training. However, as the drawdown of American forces continues, the Iraqi unit will soon be responsible for armed recon flown today by U.S. Air Cavalry assets. 

The Iraqi unit is currently using the Bell T-407 training helicopter to train more than 30 pilots. The Iraqi govt has purchased 27 AR-407 helicopters, armed with 2.75-inch rockets and M3P .50 caliber machine guns.  Chief Warrant Officer 4 Jason Ganitano and Chief Warrant Officer 3 Dan Hill serve as liaisons, and interact daily with Iraqi personnel from the 21st Sqdn. They asked the 6-17 Cav. Sqdn. Cmdr., Lt. Col. Michael McCurry, for assistance, in the belief that the American Air Cavalry Sqdn. would make a lasting impression on the newly formed Iraqi unit. 

“The Iraqis look at Kiowas flying by and wish they could fly them,” Hill said. "The Kiowa’s accomplishments and impact on local security over the years, in the region have been enormous, and the IA holds the community in high regard," he added.

Chief Warrant Officer 4 Todd Mitchell, sqdn. standardization pilot for the 6-17 Cav., presented some of the training classes to the Iraqis. “I'm excited to be able to assist the IA in taking the next step in their future,” Mitchell said. 

Armament personnel led by Staff Sgt. Jamey Hermanns instructed ground personnel in handling and loading procedures for the M3P machine gun and aerial rockets.  Hermanns stated, “I hope some of the techniques and procedures we taught, will assist them as they develop their own standard operating procedures.”

“The training and partnership that we fostered here will have a lasting impact on the Iraqi military, and the country of Iraq. Even more than teaching these brave Iraqis techniques and procedures, we've established lasting relationships, and a mutual respect that will have a more permanent and strategic impact,” McCurry said.

Sgt. Thomas Dunham trains Iraqi soldiers on loading 2.75-inch rockets into a Kiowa helicopter rocket pod, as Pfc. James Ball (rear), looks on.

Iraqi soldiers receive training on loading armament onto OH-58 Kiowa scout helicopters, Oct. 23.

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Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/11-4-11

Dear Interested Reader,

TF Nomad builds aviation support network.  Third Afghan tour, Marine brings experience, leadership.  ANA maintains progress in Garmsir.  Marines maintain security 24/7 at PB Mehraj.  ISAF Joint Command operational update, Nov. 2, 2011.

Iraq:  Now we're cookin' at Camp Ramadi.

Joanna

______________________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

TF Nomad Builds Aviation Support Network 

Story and photos by Cpl. Brian Adam Jones

Roughly 20 Marines and one Navy corpsman make up a subset of Marine Wing Support Sqdn 371, dubbed "TF Nomad," seen here from their HQ on PB Alcatraz, Oct. 21. Over the next several weeks, the TF will construct or improve helicopter landing zones along the Helmand River valley.

PATROL BASE ALCATRAZ -- Helmand River Valley resembles a paradise in the midst of a seemingly endless expanse of rock and sand. The thin stretch of lush green farmland and densely-populated countryside has set the stage for some of the harshest fighting of the Afghan war.

PB Alcatraz sits atop a sandy bluff on the valley’s rim. The outpost, home to 3rd Recon Bn., and 1st Bn., 6th Marine Regt, overlooks miles and miles of the valley. “It ain’t sex; it’s good old-fashioned hard work,” said Master Sgt. Rex Coste, the senior enlisted Marine on the TF, a native of Texas, and the staff NCO-in-charge of expeditionary airfield systems for Marine Wing Support Sqdn 371. 

TF Nomad’s helicopter landing zones allow rotary-winged aircraft ranging from light attack helicopters to MV-22B Ospreys, and heavy support helicopters, access to the dozens of patrol bases that pepper the Helmand River valley.

The bases help rid the region of violence and terror, while earning the trust of the Afghan citizens. As Afghan and CF hunt down the enemy and integrate with the populace, they do so knowing that the dynamic capabilities of Marine Corps aviation lay just beyond the clouds. 

Marine Wing Support Sqdn 371, and its small TF, are in place to provide those air assets with whatever they need on the ground. “Our role as a Marine wing support sqdn. is to support flying sqdns, whether for medical evacuations or attack aircraft,” said Capt. Michael Gagnon, a native of Mass., who commands the small detachment. “What we’re doing here allows troops to get resupplied, and casualty evacuation.”

The small team of roughly 20 men come with more than 10 different occupational specialties. Together, they'll construct landing zones, allowing the full might of Marine aviation to support the forces operating in the valley. “Personally, what we’re doing has a real honorable cause behind it,” said Sgt. Eric Zauner, the TF’s senior motor vehicle operator, and a native of Wisc. “Anything we can do to get medical attention for the Marines faster – that’s first and foremost in my mind.”

In the early morning hours of Oct. 21, the TF left for its first mission. Convoying down Route 611, an important and busy road in Helmand prov.  Busy with cars, trucks and motorcycles, the convoy pressed on under the watchful eyes of the MP tasked with protecting the TF’s ops.

“Convoying up these routes with all this traffic is difficult. It’s hard to have vehicles all around your convoy and feel secure,” said GnySgt. Ronald Williams Jr., of Mo., who heads the MP plt. “We’re going to stay vigilant, stay alert. My guys are well trained and know what they’re doing. I have great NCOs; they run the show.”

The convoy arrived at their destination to build a gravel helicopter landing zone. The unit’s compound was built alongside a village. TF Nomad began the work enabling a viable and safe helicopter landing zone, that would support the weight of a Marine Corps CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter, or MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft.

Cpl. Christopher Cane, a heavy equipment operator, and a native of Wash., manned an armored bulldozer, spreading gravel for the construction of the landing zone. “It’s always a challenge coming into a situation not knowing what you’re going to find,” Cane said. 

“I’m proud of these guys,” Coste said at the end of a successful op. “We went somewhere we’ve never been, and we didn’t know what we would find when we got there. There were a lot of unknowns, and we made it happen.”

Gagnon, who is on his 3rd Afghan deployment in 2 years, said future successes come with challenges. “This is a thinking man’s war,” Gagnon said. “The enemy is watching. If I do things the same way twice, the chances dramatically increase for an incident.”

Gagnon said that his Marines were the most important asset to the mission. “There are only 3 things I need – weapons, equipment and my personnel,” Gagnon said. “They bring a unique skill-set central to setting up helicopter landing zones.” 

“If at any point we get into trouble or take enemy fire, I have no doubt this detachment can handle it,” Zauner said. “It’s what we’ve been training for, it’s what we’re here for.”

LCpl. Scott Van New Kirk cleans his rifle at PB Alcatraz, at the conclusion of a successful mission constructing a helicopter landing zone for a special ops outpost.  Van New Kirk, a native of Calif., serves as an MP.

Capt. Michael Gagnon, right, and GnySgt. Ronald Williams Jr., debrief a recent mission.

Capt. Michael Gagnon, right, and Cpl. Christopher Cane discuss the construction of a helicopter landing zone. 

GnySgt. Ronald Williams Jr., prepares for a mission, from the front seat of a MRAP all-terrain vehicle, in the early morning hours of Oct. 21. 

Capt. Michael Gagnon, left, and Sgt. Eric Zauner test the communications equipment on an MRAP vehicle.  Zauner, from Wisc., serves as the team's senior motor vehicle operator. 

The day before the 1st mission, Capt. Michael Gagnon briefs his Marines on the plan to construct a helicopter-landing zone. Over the next several weeks, the TF will construct or improve helicopter landing zones along the Helmand River valley.

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Third Afghan Tour, Marine Brings Experience, Leadership 

Story and photos by Cpl. Brian Adam Jones

Capt. Michael Gagnon, 29, addresses his troops at PB Alcatraz, at the conclusion of a successful mission, Oct. 21. Gagnon commands a team of roughly 20 men dubbed, "TF Nomad." Over the next several weeks, the TF, a subset of Marine Wing Support Sqdn 371, will construct or improve helicopter landing zones along the Helmand River valley. 

PATROL BASE ALCATRAZ - Gagnon said “knowing how to employ personnel and equipment” is critical to the success of his current mission, and he’s learned a few tricks from the region over the years. “I was here in 2009 when we were putting the first bns. in country,” Gagnon said. “I’ve seen footholds spread from warzones, to active and bustling peaceful economies with wheat distribution centers. The local police, and the ANA get better every day. Civil Affairs has rebuilt roads and expanded economies. It’s remarkable how much things have developed in a short amount of time.”

Capt. Michael Gagnon teaches Afghan children how to fist bump.

Cpl. Christopher Cane constructs a helicopter landing zone from behind the wheel of an armored bulldozer, Oct. 21. Cane is a heavy equipment operator on a roughly 20-man team dubbed "TF Nomad." Over the next several weeks, the TF will construct or improve helicopter landing zones along the Helmand River valley.

Sgt. Eric Zauner speaks at the debriefing at PB Alcatraz, on the conclusion of a successful mission, Oct. 21. Zauer serves as the senior motor vehicle operator. 

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DVIDS

Afghan National Army maintains Progress in Garmsir

Story and photos by Cpl. Colby Brown

An ANA soldier walks through a cornfield during a security patrol, Oct. 19. The ANA has maintained steady progress during 1st Bn, 3rd Marine Regt’s deployment, taking control of more than 8 patrol bases (PBs), and consolidating its forces into squad sized elements that can operate independently.

GARMSIR DISTRICT, Helmand Province — When 1st Bn, 3rd Marine Regt arrived, the ANA acted as augments to the infantry squads of the bn. There were only a few un-partnered positions, and the ANA was spread throughout the district in groups of 3 or 4 soldiers. 

Now, nearing the 4-year mark of their presence in Garmsir, the ANA is functioning as a unit. Where there were fire teams before, there are now squads. With mentoring and advice from 1/3, the ANA has consolidated its forces into elements that can operate independently.

“What we can call a success is that we've started to take Garmsir in a different direction,” said Capt. Joshua Cavan, asst. ops officer for 1st Bn, and native of N.Y. “On the hyperbolic curve, prior bns. were on the upside of the curve. The peak was when 2nd Bn, 1st Marine Regt. was here and cleared Safar and Durzay.” 

“We're now on the back slope of that curve,” added Cavan. “We’re not ready to pull out by any means, but we’re now in the build phase. We’re building up the ANSF, and closing some of the positions. We've gone from having more than 50 positions, with Marines, to having a little more than 30. The ANSF have gone from 18 positions to more than 25.”

More than 8 Marine PBs have been transferred to the ANA.  Soldiers conduct their own patrols, and Marines at partnered positions act as advisors and mentors. Although there hasn’t been a change in the number of soldiers, the number of autonomous ANA elements has increased. 

“I would say that 85% of the patrolling effort we have is ANA lead,” said 1st Lt. Brandon Salter, plt. cmdr. of Combined Anti Armor Team 1, Weapons Co, 1/3. “It doesn’t take the Marines to drive them anymore. They're out there taking the initiative themselves and conducting ops.”

“I feel that if I turned my positions over to the ANA, they're not going to just sit there and allow the enemy to move around freely,” added Salter, a native of Ga. “They're going to get out there and be aggressive with their patrolling. Just because we're pulling back into more of an over-watch atmosphere, it doesn’t mean we aren’t there. We're still mentoring them; we’re still going out there, and we still do joint patrols.”

Over the course of 1/3’s deployment the ANA has participated in every op, having taken the lead in 4 of them. Every squad has gone through a validation course, which brings the squad together at a Marine position, and evaluates proficiency in patrolling, offense and defense movements. 

Afghan forces are becoming self-reliant, requiring little Marine logistical support. Further training continues with monthly classes conducted by 1/3’s ETT. “Before, it was just 2 or 3 ANA soldiers at a PB, and we, the Marines, would take care of them,” said Cavan. “Now that they've their own positions, they have to supply themselves.” 

“They can take care of the basic needs of their soldiers as far as food, water and fuel,” added Cavan. “In terms of a fully functioning supply and maintenance system, it’s coming along. They've made some strides, but they're not to the point where they can do it on there own. With continued mentorship they'll get there.” 

With the help of Marines from 1/3, the ANA have progressed toward taking authority of security in Garmsir. As Marine forces consolidate in preparation for the planned transition of security responsibility to Afghan forces, the ANA soldiers of Garmsir look to fill the role. 

Being able to work alongside a foreign force, no matter the location, is an opportunity in of itself. The relationship is dynamic, often times working through a language and cultural barrier, that can make daily tasks difficult. For the Marines of Combined Anti Armor Team (CAAT)-1, the experience of working with ANA soldiers is unique. 

Sgt. Angel Franco has patrolled almost every day with his ANA counterparts. “At first it was difficult conducting joint patrols,” said Franco, a section leader with CAAT-1, and native of Ariz. “They don’t patrol the same as we do, but now it’s much better. They respond to our advice, and if we've a problem, we sit down and fix it by talking to each other.”

This sentiment is echoed by the other Marines of CAAT-1, who see their experience of training and mentoring Afghan soldiers as one they won’t soon forget. “When I call back home, I tell my family that this is a once in a lifetime experience,” said Salter. “Being able to train and lead Marines, and at the same time work alongside a foreign force and watch them grow, build and take pride … to see them start raising Afghan flags, and start taking pride in their country, it’s great. It’s rewarding to get to be a part of that.”

An ANA soldier interacts with a local child during a security patrol.

An ANA squad walks along the outside of a farm during a security patrol.

An ANA soldier shakes hands with a local child. 

An ANA soldier searches a local man’s motorcycle at a temporary vehicle checkpoint.

An ANA soldier calls in a position report. 

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Marines Maintain Security 24/7 at PB Mehraj

Story and photos by Cpl. Tommy Bellegarde

Neb. native LCpl. Nathan Peterson, a rifleman with Fox Co, 2nd Bn, 4th Marine Regt, stands post to maintain security. The Marines on post are the first line of defense for the base and constantly scan their sectors of fire, carefully watching for any potential threats nearby.

PATROL BASE MEHRAJ, Helmand province –  “I’m at the entry control point post, so anybody coming too quick toward it, I’ve got to make sure that I slow them down, tell them to stop,” said Calif. native, LCpl. Javier Deleon. “I check everybody before they get too close.”

The Marines thoroughly scan the landscape during their shifts, on the lookout for potential threats, scrutinizing every detail within their view. They radio the Combat Ops Center (COC) on base if something catches their attention, which uses a camera perched atop an antenna to get a closer look.

“You get on post and watch your sectors of fire for anything out of the ordinary,” said Deleon, a dog handler with Fox Co. “For instance, if somebody all of a sudden is running somewhere, you’d call that in; guys walking around with yellow jugs – I know a lot of them use them for water, but you don’t always know, so you scope them out; guys with shovels – there are always a lot of guys with shovels, but you want to make sure they’re not dangerous.”

Kinetic attacks directed at the base are not an everyday occurrence, but the threat always remains. It can be easy to lose focus, especially considering the Marines work many hours in austere conditions, and are often tired. They must, nevertheless, stay attentive, so they're ready to respond appropriately to any potential threats to the base.

“I usually just sing songs in my head and keep looking at different stuff,” said Mich. native, LCpl. Clayton Todd, a rifleman with Fox Co. “You can’t stare at the same thing, otherwise you’ll just daydream and space out; you’ve got to always keep looking around different areas.”

Standing post for hours on end may be mundane most days, but also has an upside:  it has given the Marines a unique vantage point to watch people who live in the immediate vicinity of the PB, an education on Afghan culture one can’t receive from watching a television program, or listening to a university lecture.

“You learn how people live. You just watch them throughout the day, what their routine is – what they do in the morning, what they do in the afternoon, and what they do at night,” said Deleon, who is experiencing his 1st combat deployment.
“They drink from the well, so they don’t have a water system like we do. I’m not sure if everyone has electricity, but they have power lines and when they went down, they tried to fix them right away. Most of them walk barefoot – I’ve seen that. I’ve never seen anyone walk around barefoot in America, especially on ground like this – rocks and all kinds of stuff everywhere.”

Calif. native LCpl. Osman Latif, a rifleman, stands post to provide security for those inside the base. 

Neb. native, LCpl. Nathan Peterson, a rifleman, stands post on base. 

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DVIDS

ISAF Joint Command Operational Update, Nov. 2, 2011

ISAF Joint Command

South

HELMAND PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition patrol killed multiple insurgents and detained 2 others, during an op in Baghran district, yesterday.  8,800-lbs (4,000 kgs) of poppy seeds, 66-lbs, (30 kgs) of opium, and a quantity of small arms were seized by the SecFor.

----- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban facilitator in Sangin district, yesterday. The facilitator distributes weapons and explosives throughout the Sangin district, and plans roadside bomb attacks against CF. Additionally, he coordinates the movement of insurgent fighters from Ghorak to Sangin, and directs them in attacks throughout the district. 

URUZGAN PROVINCE -- In Tarin Kot district, a combined Afghan and coalition patrol killed 2 insurgents and detained numerous others, during an op to disrupt an insurgent network, yesterday. The patrol also seized a quantity of small arms.

KANDAHAR PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition security patrol discovered a large IED, during an op in Zharay district, yesterday. The IED was located just inside the entry to a local compound, presenting a direct threat to the local population. The combined force requested assistance from an EOD team, which safely destroyed the IED, resulting in one uninhabited building damaged. No civilians were harmed during the op.

East 

PAKTIKA PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and coalition SECFOR killed 2 insurgents and detained a suspected insurgent, during an op in search of a Haqqani network leader in Yahya Khel district, yesterday. The leader oversees multiple insurgent fighting cells, and is responsible for numerous attacks against Afghan forces. Multiple weapons and bomb making materials were seized.  

----- A coalition airstrike killed an insurgent after troops positively identified him emplacing an IED in Sharan district, Nov. 1. 

LOGAR PROVINCE -- ANA troops detained 4 individuals wanted for questioning in Baraki Barak district, Nov. 1. They were safely transported to a nearby HQ for questioning.

NANGARHAR PROVINCE -- In Shinwar district, a weapons cache was turned over to Afghan forces, as part of a local disarmament program, yesterday. The cache consisted of 2 RPG launchers, 8 RPGs, a mortar tube, 74 82 mm mortar rounds, a recoilless rifle, 3 heavy machine guns, 90 12.7 mm rounds, and various weapon mounts. All of the weapons were turned over to local police officials for inventory.

KHOST PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Haqqani network leader in Sabari district, yesterday. The leader distributes rockets, firearms, and roadside bomb components, as well as plans attacks throughout Sabari district.

----- Insurgents wounded 2 Afghan civilians, when an IED detonated in Khowst district, Nov. 1.  CF immediately provided medical care, and transported one of the wounded to a nearby coalition clinic for treatment. The other individual was treated at the scene and released.

Ops in RC-East are still ongoing.

GHAZNI PROVINCE -- During a routine security patrol in Ghazni district, a combined Afghan and CF observed multiple suspected insurgents unloading AK-47s and RPGs from a container, yesterday. Assessing an imminent threat, the combined force requested close air support to engage the insurgent position, resulting in several insurgents killed, and a building destroyed. The combined force assessed that no civilians were harmed during the op. In addition, multiple rifles and RPGs were seized by the force and turned over to local police officials.

----- Coalition airstrikes killed 4 insurgents after they were identified with machine guns and an RPG launcher, in Ghazni district, Nov. 1. 

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IRAQI STORY:

DVIDS

Now We’re Cookin’ at Camp Ramadi

Story and photos by Sgt. Kissta Feldner

Spc. Anthony Linton, right, a food service specialist, and a fellow paratrooper smile while loading a tough-box with to-go plates for hungry paratroopers, at the dining facility, on Camp Ramadi, Oct. 26. The 2nd Bde, 82nd AD cooks prepare the plates for Soldiers who can't come to the DFAC during meal hours, because they're on mission, or pulling guard duty. They took control of the DFAC from KBR civilian contractors on Oct. 25, and will continue keeping soldiers' stomachs full of hot chow for as long as possible. Linton is assigned to HQ Co., 2nd BSTB, and is a native of Mich.

RAMADI – “What time is it?” yelled a Paratrooper donning a crisp, white paper cap. “Five minutes till,” answered another.  It was 4:55 pm, almost time for dinner to be served, and a line had already formed outside the chow hall doors, continued down the long hallway, and disappeared to the outside. Hungry paratroopers gazed expectantly through the window to see what was cooking.

When the door finally opened, a flood of soldiers forked off to utilize both left and right serving stations, ensuring they get their food as fast as possible. “People have to wait longer, but these guys are doing a lot more than people realize,” said Sgt. Justin Gonzalez, a food service specialist, assigned to the 2nd Bde, 82nd AD.

The 2/82’s food service specialists took control of the Camp Ramadi dining facility from KBR civilian contractors on Oct. 25, in preparation for the turnover of the camp to the GoI by the end of the year. While some have been overseeing ops in the DFAC throughout the Falcon Bde’s deployment to Iraq, most worked at the Class 1 yard distributing food in support of outpost ops. Now they're all back in the kitchen conducting every step in the process of feeding personnel on Camp Ramadi, but with a fraction of the equipment and manpower of the contractors.

"While KBR had more than 60 personnel per shift, the Falcons make due with only 12," said Gonzalez, a native of  Texas.  Much of the equipment the contractors used has also been removed. The cooks have to keep up a quick pace in order to make up for the difference. “We’re working at optimal tempo,” he said.

The days are split into 12-hour shifts, each shift responsible for serving one meal, feeding a total of about 2,700 personnel every day. Soldiers have the option of picking up a meal ready-to-eat to serve as their lunch. "The DFAC only serves 2 hot meals in order to make the food they have last as long as possible," said Sgt. 1st Class William Richter, the senior food service specialist for the 2/82’s 1st Bn, and a native of Calif. This ensuresthat  personnel will receive hot food for a longer period of time, before having to settle for MREs for every meal. 

All of the food from the Class 1 yard was moved to a large room attached to the DFAC, which is now stacked high with pallets of everything from grape juice cartons to industrial-sized cans of peas.  "Every shift, the cooks must break down about 150 of these boxes to prepare for each meal," Gonzalez said. "Some food is taken to the kitchen to be cooked, and the rest is organized in the dining room. Timing is crucial," he added, "since some of the food can't be at room temp for too long, before it's cooked. “We have to manage our time well and reverse-plan,” he said.

"About an hour before each meal is served, the cooks load down large tough-boxes with dozens of to-go plates for paratroopers who cannot make it to scheduled meal times," Gonzalez said. The cooks have been working hard for several hours before the door opens for their shift’s meal service. “We’ve already been here 5 hours for a 2 hour service,” Gonzalez said as paratroopers began pouring in for dinner chow. 

Even with fewer personnel to prepare meals, and less equipment to prepare them with, the 2/82’s food service specialists are getting the job done. Just before walking to the counter to help serve his fellow paratroopers, Gonzalez added, “to be able to push out the amount of food we’re putting out, with such little equipment and personnel is pretty awesome.”

Spc. Brandon Parker, a food service specialist, fills a hungry Paratrooper's tray. Parker is a native of Fla.

Staff Sgt. Princessunique Thomas, right, and Sgt. Justin Gonzalez, food service specialists, fill to-go plates. Thomas is assigned to E Co, 407th BSB, and is a native of N.Y.  

Spc. Anthony Linton, a food service specialist, assigned to the 2nd Bde, helps load a tough-box.  Linton is a native of Mich.

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Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/11-03-11

Dear Interested Reader,

Combined forces clear insurgents from Logar.  Op Eastern Storm returns commerce, residents to Bazaar.  Local police certification marks progress in Nawa.  For one Kenyan, military service a testimony of faith.  ISAF Joint Command, operational update, Nov. 1, 2011.

Iraq:  Fort Hood Soldiers packing up at COB Adder and going home.

Joanna

_________________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Combined Forces Clear Insurgents from Logar

Story and photos by Army Spc. William Begley      

Sgt. Jon Allen (left), from S.C., a medic with Co B, 1st Bn, 2nd Inf Regt, provides aid to an ANA soldier injured by a blast from an RPG, during Op Shamshir, Oct. 19. 

LOGAR PROVINCE — Historically, Logar prov. has been a Taliban stronghold. Almost all Afghan and CF who have entered the prov. in the past, have come under attack.
Looking to change this, Soldiers of Co B, TF Black Scarves, assisted ANSF during a 5- day mission, Oct. 17—21. 

The goal, according to Capt. Michael Roesler, of Minn., Co. B cmdr., was to disrupt insurgent activity, facilitate Afghan governmental control, as well as expand ANSF influence.

Landing in the middle of the night just outside the village of Kut Kay, the combined forces took their first enemy contact. “It was a pop shot with an AK-47 assault rifle or a PK [machine gun],” said 1st Lt. Laurent Lundy, of Mass. 

After the enemy quickly broke contact, the troops went ahead and cleared the location; finding a large weapons cache. “We found approx 13 RPGs, 23 detonators, 3 RPG boosters, several feet of detonator cord, and a few sticks of TNT,” said Lundy.  “It was the biggest one we've found so far, since we've come to Logar prov. It felt pretty good; the guys were excited, and you could see it in their eyes.” 

The second day began early with the goal of clearing the area inside the Maani bazaar. Once again, the unit came under enemy fire. While a team was in the bazaar, an RPG struck a hillside near an over watch team; landing just 5 meters from the element.

“Everybody was stunned right at first, so we hopped over our makeshift fighting position and took cover down the other side of the hill,” said Spc. Benjamin Brock, from Iowa, and a sniper with HQ plt. “We got everybody together and saw that everybody was all right. Then we went back up and tried to get eyes on whoever shot the RPG.”

The Soldiers returned fire, later intercepting insurgent radio chatter, saying they killed one insurgent and injured another. Speaking with locals in the bazaar, ANA Capt. Namutllah, cmdr., appealed for peace. 

“Let us seize the opportunity to end the destructive influence of the Taliban and to embrace the opportunity that the GoA is providing for them,” he said. “It's up to you. It's your responsibility to make this positive change for the future.”

Day three began establishing an outpost above the village of Omarkhel. After occupying a hilltop, Black Scarves Soldiers took contact early that morning from the west, and a ridgeline from the NE that overlooked the entire area. What ensued during the fire fight was a unique display of firepower that they could deliver.

With a .50-caliber machine gun mounted on a 6-wheeled vehicle, and a grenade launcher mounted on another, the ANA and Black Scarf Soldiers returned fire.  Forcing the fight, they moved quickly to claim the ground the firing had come from.  While there were no bodies recovered, insurgent radio chatter reported they killed 2 Taliban and wounded one. 

With memories of the previous day’s fight still fresh, the Soldiers headed out early to a small village called Azurkhel. With the high ground well covered, the forces moved in to quite a different mood than the day before. “Kids came out to greet us, and so did the elders and the rest of the villagers,” said Lundy. “We were able to maneuver easily about in the village, which is typically not the way it goes.” 

With the villagers’ cooperation, the clearing op began and ended in a relatively short period of time. “The ANA were actually sitting and breaking bread with the locals, which is a good sign,” said Lundy. “Nonetheless, the threat remains the same. We did have chatter that day, saying that they're going to try to shoot down a helicopter, and continue attacking CF.” 

Lundy’s words proved ominous and, once again, they took contact. “Some Soldiers were on a ridgeline west of the village of Azurkhel, when they started receiving fire from about 5 enemy insurgents from the south, 4 to 6 hundred meters away,” said 1st Sgt. Todd Bair, of Utah. “There was a small amount of intermittent fire going back and forth between the CF and insurgents, which lasted about an hour.” 

“We did end up shooting an insurgent in the leg that was on a motorcycle fleeing the area with a weapon,” Bair said. “Later on the ANA destroyed the motorcycle.” Afterwards, the forces moved on to their last task, the village of Muchkhel, just a few kms. away. That afternoon, an outpost was secured from an old set of ruins in the village. The forces spent the rest of the evening there without incident.

On the final day, the mood around the camp was much more upbeat than the previous 4 days. The men were ready to finish their mission, and return to FOB Altimur for a hot shower and a warm meal.  Laughter could be heard all around the camp, as the Soldiers recanted stories and told jokes.

While the ANA and Black Scarf Soldiers made their rounds clearing the village, Roesler purchased a sheep from the village cleric. Afghan troops bought vegetables and bread, and began to prepare dinner.

“I think things like this go a long way in our relations with the ANA and the people,” said Roesler. “It shows them that we aren’t much different than they are. I think this actually makes us a little more human to them.”

While the troops could almost see the helicopters coming to pick them up, the insurgents weren’t ready to let them go so easily. Shots rang out and once again, the Black Scarves took action. Rolling the .50-caliber and the grenade launcher into position, they returned fire.

As the insurgents ran for cover, darkness settled in and the forces prepared to come home. “The biggest thing for all of us is that we took a lot of contact during the last 4 days, and everybody’s okay. No injuries or scrapes, and that’s due to individual Soldier discipline.”

 

A cache of weapons goes up violently, during the opening days of their mission. 

ANA Capt. Namutllah speaks with locals in the Maani bazaar.

Sgt. Juan Restrepo, from S.C., an infantryman, returns fire with a .50-caliber machine gun, Oct. 20. 

An AF F-15E Strike Eagle delivers a show of force on day 3 of Op Shamshir.

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DVIDS

Op Eastern Storm Returns Commerce, Residents to Bazaar

Story and photos by Cpl. James Clark

Sgt. Chris Gonzalez, the civil affairs team chief with Bravo Co, 1st Bn, 6th Marine Regt, speaks to local residents at the Kajaki Sofla Bazaar, during a recent visit. The district was securely under the control of insurgent fighters who operated in the area.  However, the bn. has been working with Afghan soldiers in Op Eastern Storm to secure the area, making it safe for merchants to return to the bazaar, and bring commerce back to Kajaki.

KAJAKI SOFLA DISTRICT, Helmand province – Columns of mopeds, caravans of pack animals, and an endless stream of trucks, tractors and trailers heralds the return of local residents to the Kajaki Sofla District. The area was nearly a ghost town when the Marines of 1st Bn, and Afghan soldiers inserted during Op Tofan Sharq (Eastern Storm). In recent days, however, there has been a slow, but steady return to normalcy, as the insurgent threat in the area has been systematically eliminated.

The bazaar, a major hub for the local community, is a clear indicator of the op’s success thus far. The number of people shopping and selling their wares, the reception Marines and ANSF members receive when they pass through, and the number of local residents who hang around when CF are present, serve as indicators of the improved conditions.

With the majority of insurgent forces on the run, having fled since the outset of the op, the Marines find themselves with a rare opportunity. They currently hold the momentum, and, at the moment, are blessed by a break in the violence. This valuable time is allowing the Afghans to focus on bolstering ties that, with care, can grow into lasting bonds between the local leadership and their reps in the GoA.

“What we have and the insurgents don’t is presence,” explained Mass. native Capt. Paul Tremblay, company cmdr., Bravo Co, 1/6. “It’ll only be a matter of time before the local residents will gain more confidence. Right now they’re extremely ecstatic that we’re here, but like with anything else, it’ll take a few weeks before we start to see active participation on their part.”

"The ultimate goal," explained Tremblay, "is to have members of the local populace take charge, to take ownership over their community, and no longer live in fear of reprisal from insurgent forces operating in the area. We’re trying to identify who those people are who, for whatever reason, want to be active participants, those people who want to be good Samaritans,” explained Tremblay, who originally enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1996, and later graduated from Virginia Tech in 2003. “Once we identify them, we can bring them into the fold, make them the ad hoc leaders and voices.”

Another goal for CF in the area is to bring the region’s youth into the fold, an oft ignored group within the more traditional Muslim culture. Due to a rising feeling of disempowerment within this group, some young men between 14 and 30 have rallied to the Taliban’s cause. Unlike traditional Muslim society, in which community elders have the voice, the insurgency offers these young men instant gratification through promises of both power and money.

"The key," explained Sgt. Chris Gonzalez, the civil affairs team chief in support of Bravo Co, "is to find constructive roles for these boys and men within the community, in order to foster ties between the younger generation and the Afghan govt. In so doing, take away from the insurgency’s main recruiting base," continued Gonzalez.

“You have 3 types of Taliban fighters:  the foreigners who come over here solely to fight us, the diehard believers who are from the area, and finally the majority of their fighters who join mainly due to economic opportunities,” said Gonzalez, a resident Md. 

The Marines are working to support the GoA's efforts in the region to provide jobs and establish long-term institutions, to train and educate individuals who can then better their communities. "However, the district must be at the right stage before trade and vocational schools can be established," according to Gonzalez. “We have to set the building blocks, so they can continue when we’re gone,” Gonzalez explained. “To do that we need Afghan counterparts.”

A Marine with Bravo Co, provides security, during a recent patrol through the Kajaki Sofla Bazaar.

A shop keeper sits outside his store at the Kajaki Sofla Bazaar.

A young boy smiles for the camera.

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DVIDS

Local Police Certification Marks Progress in Nawa 

Story and photos by Staff Sgt. Andrew Miller

Nawa District Gov. Manaf speaks during the Afghan Local Police (ALP) validation shura, Oct. 26. The Nawa branch of the ALP was recognized as an official org. of the Afghan Ministry of Interior (MoI). With the certification of the Nawa ALP, Manaf saw his district take another step toward the enduring peace and stability he has been searching for, since taking office 2 years ago.

COP JAKER, Helmand province – An increased security presence by the Nawa ALP should translate into less freedom of movement for insurgents, and more peace of mind for residents of the district.

Nawa has a population of almost 185,000, and is bordered by Lashkar Gah to the north, Garmsir to the south, Marjah to the west, and Registan to the east. It has flat, agricultural lands, and the tribes here typically live in peace. Due to its size and location, Nawa has been pivotal in the fight against the insurgency, and is often seen as the model district in southern Helmand. ANSF and district govt officials are consistently taking the lead in security and development ops ahead of the anticipated transition with CF.

“The Nawa people have given up farming poppy in the past 2 years voluntarily.  Education and security are established and moving forward, and our schools are in session,” Manaf said. “Now our people have decided to take part in securing our local areas, and have registered for the ALP in order to serve our communities and our country.”

With the addition of the ALP to this area, the security gains of the past few years can be maintained and improved. “Our ALP is ready to serve and protect our local communities, schools, clinics and roads,” said the gov.

General Angar, Helmand Provincial Chief of Police, said that at this point, the security improvements in Nawa have left the enemy unwilling to fight Afghan forces face-to-face.  He emphasized that an increased security presence in the district, will lead to further developments in education and other essential infrastructure.

Simon Gass, NATO Senior Civilian Rep, said, "CF will continue their work the Afghan govt and SecFor to train and equip local police forces, like the ones certified in southern Helmand. The partnered effort will not end after these units are established, as coalitions will continue to advise and mentor local police forces.  The ALP is a very important piece, because this means that local people are providing security within their own communities,” Gass said.

Haji Akhundzadah, the Deputy Minister of Borders and Tribal Affairs, echoed the importance of local residents taking responsibility for the security of their own communities. “As you know, the Taliban, Al Qaeda and their friends don’t want us to have peace and stability in our country.  They have no mercy or love peace. Let’s pick these young men from your villages who are not drug addicts, and who are willing to serve in the ALP and protect your homes,” he said. “This is a great chance for us. We can finally have our own identity, our own national flag.”

The Nawa ALP, and other SecFor like it throughout Helmand prov., is a direct result of the joint effort by the Afghan govt and CF to build the capability and capacity of ANSF.  Nawa’s future has only become brighter with the validation of its own local police force. Combined with other developments in security and governance, the district is becoming a model for the rest of Helmand prov.

General Angar addresses the crowd during the ALP validation shura. 

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DVIDS

For One Kenyan, Military Service a Testimony of Faith

Story by Spc. Darryl Montgomery

Chaplain (Maj.) David Waweru, originally of Kenya, now serving as the brigade chaplain for the 504th Battlefield Surveillance Bde, Fort Hood, Texas, takes a moment to pray during a religious ceremony at FOB Spin Boldak. 

FOB SPIN BOLDAK – “I was born and raised in Kenya, in a small village about 20 miles west of the capital city of Nairobi,” said Waweru. “I went to primary school in the village, and later went to high school in Nairobi.” Waweru, now a resident of Texas, said that after graduating high school, he began working for local church orgs.

“The job that really stands out to me, is when I worked for Campus Crusade for Christ,” Waweru said. “This job stands out to me, because that's when I had a lot of time with American missionaries, and I believe that's where my interest in coming to the U.S. began.”

Waweru said he worked there for 2.5 years, working with local church workers teaching them how to plan church services and build churches.  It was during his time with Campus Crusade, where Waweru said he felt the call to become an ordained minister for his church, the Anglican Church in Kenya.  He then left to begin school at the Bishop Kariuki Bible College in Kabete, Kenya, to train for ordained ministry.

While he was attending the college, Waweru said he met his wife, Christine, who was born in the U.S., but raised in both the U.S. and Kenya. David and Christine had been attending the college for the same reason, to become ordained ministers.

He said they began getting to know each other, and eventually started dating. However, their time together didn’t last as long as they would have liked. “One year later, Christine was offered a scholarship for a school in the U.S.,” he said, “so, she took it and returned home to the U.S., to continue her education toward her bachelor’s degree in Christian ministry.”

Waweru, still in Kenya attending the Bishop Kariuki Bible College, continued his education, and kept in touch with Christine through letters and phone calls every once in a while. Waweru completed his degree at the Bible college, and transferred to St. Paul’s University in Limuru, Kenya, to obtain a bachelor’s in divinity. All through this time, David and Christine kept their relationship strong, even though they were on opposite sides of the world.

“I think this time apart helped us build trust,” Waweru said, “and I feel this was good training that helped me in becoming a chaplain in the years to come.” He also said he believes, even though he had no way of knowing at the time, that this time apart was preparing him for his 3 combat deployments with the U.S. Army.

Christine returned to Kenya during David’s second year at St. Paul’s, and they decided they wanted to spend the rest of their lives together. On Dec. 3, 1988, David and Christine made their vows to each other, and became husband and wife. “We got ordained at the same time,” he said, “and began ministry together at the Anglican Church of Kenya.”

After a few years, the Waweru family picked up and came to the U.S. together, and David continued to further his education at Princeton University, N.J., to obtain a master’s degree in theology. “While I was at Princeton, I met a U.S. Army chaplain who was studying the same program. He and I became good friends during our time together, and throughout that friendship,” Waweru said, “I guess he was recruiting me into the chaplain’s corps.”

Upon graduation, Waweru said he faced 2 choices, to continue his ministries in the church, or to become a chaplain in the U.S. Army. “I decided to try a new venture,” he said, “so I decided to become a U.S. Army chaplain.” Waweru received his commission as a 1st Lt., on July 4, 1994, and is is now a major on his 3rd combat deployment, and his 1st to Afghanistan.

His mission is to keep the soldiers of the brigade strong, and help them through their times of trouble. “It's never easy,” he said. “It's always hard to be away from family. With this being my 3rd deployment, I have been better able to prepare myself, and help others through my experiences.”

“I offer encouragement and insight based on my experiences,” he said. “I encourage soldiers to work on their relationships, while they're away from their families, and I encourage them to be spiritually fit.  I enjoy my ministry in the Army,” he said, “I love soldiers; I love talking to soldiers, interacting with soldiers. I love being part of a bigger family than myself. We'll suffer being away from our Families together, and we'll pull through it together.”

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DVIDS

ISAF Joint Command Operational Update, Nov. 1, 2011

ISAF Joint Command 

South

KANDAHAR PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor captured a Taliban leader, during an op in Panjwa’i district, yesterday. The leader distributed weapons and supplies throughout the Panjwa’i district, as well as, planned ambush and roadside bomb attacks against CF. One additional suspected insurgent was detained.

----- In Zharay district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained 2 suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban leader, yesterday. The leader is responsible for roadside bomb attacks throughout region.

HELMAND PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition security patrol discovered nearly 2,200-lbs (1,000 kgs) of marijuana, during routine ops in Reg-e Khan Neshin district, yesterday. 

East

PAKTIKA PROVINCE --In Dilah wa Khoshamand district, a combined Afghan and coalition security patrol detained a suspected insurgent, and discovered a weapons cache, yesterday. The cache consisted of 3 AK-47 rifles, 3 ammo pouches, 14 ammo mags, IED wiring, various components used to construct IEDs, 7 grenades, a machine gun, and a quantity of small arms ammo.

----- In Kushamond district, a suspected insurgent was detained by CF for acting suspicious, Oct. 31.

KHOST PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor captured a Haqqani network leader, and detained an additional suspected insurgent, during an op in Terayzai district, yesterday. The leader planned roadside bomb and direct fire attacks against Afghan forces.

----- A weapons cache consisting of an RPG, an AT4 round, and various MK19 rounds was seized by the ANA in Mandozai district, Oct. 31.

----- In Shemal district, CF discovered a cache consisting of a 7.62 rounds belt, a shotgun, and a small bag of hash.

WARDAK PROVINCE -- In Chak-e Wardak district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban leader, yesterday. The leader conducts attacks against Afghan forces.

----- A suspected insurgent was detained after engaging CF with small-arms fire in Chak district, Oct. 31.

KUNAR PROVINCE -- Two insurgents were killed after engaging CF with indirect fire in Bar Kunar district, Oct. 31.

----- An insurgent was killed by CF, after engaging a convoy in Watahpur district Oct. 31.

LOGAR PROVINCE -- Five people, wanted for questioning, were detained by ANP in Pul-e-Alam district, Oct. 31.

GHAZNI PROVINCE --  A suspected insurgent was detained after engaging Afghan and CF with small-arms fire in Gellan district, Oct. 31. The individual is under the custody of ANA. 

LAGHMAN PROVINCE -- Three AP mines and a large quantity on PKM rounds were seized by ANA in Qarghaee district, Oct. 31.

Operations in RC-East are still ongoing.

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IRAQI STORY:

DVIDS

Fort Hood Soldiers Packing Up at COB Adder and Going Home

Story and photos by Spc. Anthony Zane

Soldiers from Alpha Co, 3rd BSTB, 1st Cav Div from Fort Hood, Texas, pack up their belongings after a customs inspection on COB Adder, Oct. 28.

COB ADDER – "Today, we’re laying out all of our bags that are all packed and ready to send home," said Pfc. Devin Alderman, signal intel analyst, 3rd BSTB, from Fla.  Alderman arrived on COB Adder after he finished his advanced individual training.

After a required customs inspection of their belongings, soldiers from the 3BSTB lined up side-by-side passing each bag along the line to pack the cargo container more efficiently. As the packing continued, one soldier made last minute adjustments to his guitar before packing it away. "Loosening the strings on the guitar helps protect it from damage while it's stored away," said Chief Warrant Officer 2 Adrian Cabrera, intel fusion chief, from Calif.

Although packing up equipment and personal gear is a lot of work, it's a welcoming chore for these soldiers, because it means that they'll soon be home. “It’s been a long deployment,” said Cabrera. “This is my 4th deployment, so it feels really good to be going home.”

Soldiers pass duffel bags full of personal belongings to each other, to pack them into a cargo container. 

Duffel bags and assault packs are stacked in a pile as soldiers load equipment into a cargo container. 

A group of soldiers work to close a very full duffel bag. 

Chief Warrant Officer 2 Adrian Cabrera loosens the strings on his guitar before packing it up to ship home.

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Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/11-02-11

Dear Interested Reader,

FET establishes bond with female Afghan police officers.  Breaking ground:  Road to COP Lion.  'Pale Rider' and 'Dreadnaught' bns. have enemy "against the ropes."  FOB Sharana Soldiers bring more vehicles to the fight.  ISAF Joint Command operational update, Oct. 31, 2011.

Iraq:  Electronic warfare meets modern day Army at COB Warrior.

Joanna

________________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Female Engagement Team Establishes Bonds

Story and photos by Army 1st Lt. Kathleen Argonza-Pangburn

Spc. Darlene Cantrall of Okla., and a member of Co E, 700 BSB, 45th IBCT assists Naseema, 17, with trying on the Improved Outer Tactical Vest, during their first meeting, Oct. 18. Cantrall is a member of the FET, who visited with women of the Afghan Police Force. 

LAGHMAN PROVINCE – Naseema, a 17-year-old, holds her baby on her lap, smiling from beneath a white Chadaa, or headscarf, which is folded over her forehead, tucked behind her ears, then wrapped about her shoulders. Her smile extends to her large brown eyes, and her laugh crinkles the bridge of her nose in a charming, young expression of true happiness. 

Naseema’s engaging personality almost comes across as unseemly, in contrast to the nature and dangers of her job.  She is a female Afghan Police Officer in war-torn eastern Afghanistan. “Who takes care of your baby while you're at work,” asked 1st Lt. Shawna Woodard of Okla., the EO with Co E, and member of the Laghman FET. “She takes the baby with her to work,” the interpreter replies. 

The FET, comprised of Soldiers from the 45th IBCT, Kansas ADT, and Law Enforcement Professionals from FOB Mehtar Lam, visited the local Afghan Police Station that Naseema and her fellow female officers are assigned to.

Once the male soldiers had left the room, leaving the women alone, Naseema and her 15 year old sister-in-law, Leena, pulled the blue burka over their heads, and folded it on the back of the chair. For a moment, this little office was a place for Leena and Naseema to discuss the successes and challenges they face in their daily lives.

“One female officer was shot 18 times,” says the interpreter, as she recalled a time when the female police officers accompanied American Soldiers during a raid. “She was such a wonderful, nice girl.”

The FET Soldiers listened with great interest, as they told their stories.  Naseema bounces the baby on her knee, as the fussy infant lets out a high-pitched laugh.

Leena is particularly perceptive. “She has 12 years of schooling; she can read and write, and use a computer,” the interpreter explains. “She took 2 grades worth of exams from her home, studying by herself, so that she could finish school early.”

“You know, you girls are doing so much at so young an age,” said Spc. Ashley Bryant of Okla., as she played with the infant tugging at his yellow shirt, and cooed quietly on her lap, “You make us feel good about being here.” 

The interpreter extends those words, and Leena smiles. “We're inspired by the fact that, even though Afghanistan is not America, we can see you all here,” said Naseema with a flat palm indicating the body armor and M-4s that littered across the room. “One day, Afghanistan will be okay with women doing these jobs.”

Naseema and Leena come from a very progressive family. “My mother has been a police officer for more than ten years,” Leena says with a proud smile. “She’s in the U.S. right now for training.”

“Except for one teacher, our family are all Soldiers or Police Officers,” Naseema added.  Naseema’s husband, who is also Leena’s brother, is a fellow police officer with the local police force. 

Naseema and Leena tried on the female Soldier’s hats and their body armor, while the FET donned the girls' burkas, gaining some perspective of each others lives and how they work. 

After the handshakes, hugs and farewells, the FET walked away with their heads filled with ideas of projects that may help these extraordinary women.  They also left feeling the greatest sense of camaraderie.

These teenage girls are changing the course of history, doing the things that others are unwilling to do. “This is what we wanted to do,” said Spc. Darlene Cantrall of Okla., as they walked away from the Police compound. “Those girls are amazing!”

Spc. Darlene Cantrall assists Naseema with trying on her Improved Outer Tactical Vest, during their first meeting. 

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Blackanthem Military News

Breaking ground: Road to COP Lion

By Staff Sgt. Lindsey Kibler, ISAF Joint Command PA

This is the Second Story of a Three Part Series on the actions of Task Force Arctic Wolves to root out Taliban from the Horne of Panjwa'i.

An ANA Solder looks through binoculars while the Afghan soldier and a U.S. Soldier with the 3rd Bn, 21st Inf Regt watches for insurgent attacks, as road construction teams extend Route Agha through Do'ab to COP Lion. (Army photo by Pfc. Andrew Geisler)

KANDAHAR PROVINCE -- With no coalition troops in the western tip of the Horn of Panjwa'i, Taliban fighters remained free to move, and place IEDs, throughout the rural farming village of Do'ab.

Seen as the last Taliban stronghold, Soldiers from 3rd Bn, 1st Stryker BCT, 25th ID, immediately began assessing a plan of action to disrupt enemy ops in the Panjwa'i district.

After the unit's July arrival to Afghanistan, 3rd Bn. was assigned to cover specific areas within the district. By Sept., Co A, 1st Bn., 5th Inf. Regt., along with engrs. from the Iowa and Puerto Rico Army Reserve, and ANA, began ops.

The first step was to build ANA checkpoints along the already-established Route Hyena. From the last checkpoint on Route Hyena, the road would be extended roughly 1-1/2 miles and end at the entrance to COP Lion. The recent addition to the road was named Route Agha, after the district's gov., Hajji Agha. 

"Lion is the furthest west outpost in the Horn of Panjwa'i. No one had been into Do'ab, and it hasn't been patrolled regularly.  By going into Do'ab, we can deny the Taliban any terrain and, in turn, make the area more secure and help the GoA support their people," said 1st Sgt. Jeff Peppin, Co A, 1st Bn., 1st sgt.

"As construction began, they were met with resistance, often in the form of IEDs and small-arms fire," Peppin said. The entire project was slated to take about 2 months. The engrs. worked feverishly, while Soldiers from 1st Bn., 5th Inf. Reg., provided security.

"We're out here from the time the sun rises until the sun sets, every day, making sure we get this done," said 1st Lt. Marc Helm, plt. leader with the 322nd Engr Co, 368th Engr. Bn., Naval Construction Regt.  Helm, a reservist from Iowa, oversees engrs. from his company, as well as Soldiers from the 475th Engr. Co of Puerto Rico.

"Aside from IEDs, engrs. were met with another problem - dust. 'Moon dust,' a term used to describe the extremely fine dirt covering the area, was settling into the moving parts of the equipment, and mixed with the extreme heat, causing the heavy machinery to break down a lot quicker," said Helm. "Waiting for parts to be shipped from the U.S. can take weeks or months," he added.

Regardless of equipment challenges, construction was finished more than a week ahead of schedule. "The engineers did great work. Construction has been a success, and now we can help bring security to the area, get the locals to start trusting us, and hopefully, getting them to return," said Peppin, adding that he's already seeing some of the locals returning and tending to their crops.

"The insurgents have tried extending the fighting season because of the presence of troops in the area, but they've been unsuccessful," according to intel analyst Spc. Joshua Rinker, a Va. native, serving with HC, 3rd Bn.

Since breaking ground on the road to Do'ab in early Sept., IED attacks are down 46%, small-arms fire are down 47%, and the frequency of indirect fire attacks has also decreased. Rinker expects numbers of attacks to continue to drop as villagers begin returning to their homes and interacting more with ANA and U.S. Soldiers in the area.

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Blackanthem Military News

'Against the Ropes'

By Mollie Miller, 1st ID PA

Soldiers assigned to D Co, 2nd Bn, 34th AR Regt, 1st HBCT, 1st ID are recognized by Col. Patrick Frank, TF Spartan cmdr., during a ceremony, Sept. 4. 

The cmdr. of 2nd Bn., Lt. Col. Christopher Kidd, spoke to reporters, Oct. 28, from Afghanistan via video teleconference. Deployed 1st ID cmdrs. say that Taliban forces in Afghanistan are faltering. Pockets of Taliban forces are quickly losing strength in the face of an increasingly war weary Afghan population, and decreasing resources and capabilities, 2 Fort Riley cmdrs. said recently. 

"We're separating the insurgency from the people, eroding their resources, and hindering their capabilities," said Lt. Col. Michael Katona, cmdr. of 4th Sqdn, 4th Cav Regt, 1st HBCT, via video teleconference. "We have the enemy against the ropes, and we're punching them hard right now." 

Katona, along with his senior NCO Command Sgt. Maj. Charles Cook, and 2 of the sqdn's Soldiers, joined Lt. Col. Christopher Kidd and Command Sgt. Maj. John McDwyer, the command team from 2nd Bn, 34th AR Regt, for a video teleconference with Central Kansas media. 

"We've defeated the Taliban, and we're now moving into training the ANSF," Katona said. "We're securing the people, and have empowered the GoA, and we must now remain vigilant."

For the more than 1,000 men and women of the 'Pale Rider' and 'Dreadnaught' bns., remaining vigilant means that the Soldiers will continue to partner with their Afghan counterparts on the training and construction projects, and air assault and dismounted patrol missions, that have kept them very busy.  

"We've got the enemy against the ropes and we can't stop now," Katona said. "We're going to move forward with all our projects, and continue intel driven air assaults, to prevent the enemy from regaining any sort of foothold." 

For Kidd, the next few months will mean that his bn. will give the Afghan troops and police who they've been training, more room to take the lead in securing their own country. "We're constantly moving our Afghan partners along and letting them take the lead more and more, so they can succeed long after we're gone," he said.    

Getting their Afghan partners into the lead, and getting the enemy "against the ropes," however, has come at a high price for Fort Riley's Soldiers. Since arriving in country in early 2011, 9 members of the 2 bns. have lost their lives, more than 120 Soldiers have received Purple Heart Medals, and 90% of the Soldiers assigned to 4th Sqdn. have been awarded some sort of combat action badge.

"These guys and gals have seen some intense combat," Katona said. "Our area of ops (AO) has been very kinetic, but we have beaten the enemy down and they're not coming back up." 

"Being in an environment like the combat zones of southern Afghanistan is not something you can understand unless you have been there yourself," said Staff Sgt. Jared Davis, 4th Sqdn., 4th Cav. Regt. "It's a difficult situation anytime you get those bullets whizzing by you, or those bombs going off, but I wouldn't choose to be anywhere other than where I am right now," he said. "I've got a great plt. under me. We go on every air assault and do every foot patrol we can, and I'm proud to say that none of my guys have been injured in a way that they can't continue to fight. We hope to keep it that way." 

"We've accomplished the mission, and will continue to accomplish the mission until the day we get on the plane," Katona said. "We owe it to the unit replacing us to hand this battle space over in the best shape possible, and I'll fight until the day I get on the airplane, to ensure that we continue to make gains all the way to the last day. That's what I owe the Army, and that's what I owe our Soldiers." 

Command Sgt. Maj. John McDwyer, the senior NCO for 2nd Bn., 34th AR Regt., said, "Central Kansas and the entire Flint Hills community should be very proud of their Fort Riley Soldiers. These young men and women go out onto an uncertain battlefield, not knowing what to expect from day to day, and are doing incredible things out there," he said. "I'm just as proud as heck of them, and I think everyone back home needs to know that Soldiers like these are the reason we're going to win this war." 

Troopers from 4th Sqdn., patrol the central Zhari district. 

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DVIDS

Soldiers Bring More Vehicles to the Fight

Story and photos by Pfc. Zackary Root

Spc. Mike Roberson, Co A, 172nd Support Bn, sits in his vehicle, Oct. 26, readying himself to convoy to FOB Orgun-E.

PAKTIKA PROVINCE – Traveling in Afghanistan is not an easy task. The roads are narrow with steep drop-offs, riverbeds are strewn with rocks, and raining can cause mudslides where portions of the mountainside literally disappear. When supplies and vehicles need to get somewhere, the soldiers from the 172nd SB will drive almost anywhere to accomplish the mission.

“We're constantly moving stuff around to different FOBs,” said Staff Sgt. Clinton Bailey, from Texas, a transportation plt. sgt. “We transport whatever the brigade needs.”
Co A soldiers are currently conducting a 2 to 3 week-long mission, in order to pick up MRAP all-terrain vehicles from COP Curry, and bring them back to FOB Sharana to upgrade their armor.

“The vehicles currently can not be used on the battlefield, because of their level of armor,” said Staff Sgt. Jessica Torres, from Calif., a gun-truck plt. sgt.

Soldiers conducting supply missions have a lot of preparation beforehand. The majority of the planning goes into getting the vehicles ready for convoying. “The soldiers perform preventive maintenance checks and services on their vehicles, and go through a 20-level, quality checks and quality services before they dispatch their vehicles,” said Torres. “They check the vehicles out, and make sure they're up to standard for mission.” 

With proper checks on all the vehicles, the soldiers hope to mitigate the risk of traveling, and prepare in case the enemy engages them along the route to FOB Orgun-E, according to Bailey. “We control about 90% of it through our planning, execution, precombat checks and precombat inspections,” said Bailey. “The other 10% is influenced by the enemy.”

Torres said that the route to FOB Orgun-E was not always as safe as it currently is.“We did encounter small arms fire and indirect fire when we first started taking these routes, but lately, the ANA has setup checkpoints along the route,” said Torres. “This has decreased the amount of enemy fire.”

According to Torres, by utilizing existing vehicles and upgrading their armor instead of buying new vehicles, the Army is using their existing resources, and saving money in the process. Along with saving money, the mission will deliver more vehicles that are able to occupy the battle space, providing more of a force presence in the area. 

Soldiers from the 172nd Support Battalion have conducted around 15 successful missions, since being deployed to Afghanistan. With more supplies and vehicles needing movement, the soldiers will remain busy for the foreseeable future. “Us going out there and risking our equipment and our lives for the better of other soldiers; that's a good thing,” said Bailey. “It’s soldiers helping soldiers.”

Spc. Joseph Mariamo, Co A, 172nd SB, makes sure everything is tightly strapped down on his vehicle, Oct. 26, before the start of a 2 to 3-week mission.

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DVIDS

ISAF Joint Command Operational Update, Oct. 31, 2011

ISAF Joint Command - Afghanistan

East

PAKTIYA PROVINCE -- In Sayyid Karam district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor captured a Haqqani network leader and detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op, yesterday. The leader coordinated roadside bomb attacks in the Gardez district. Bomb making materials and multiple AK-47 assault rifles were also seized.

KHOST PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor captured a Haqqani network leader and detained one additional suspected insurgent, during an op in Khost district, yesterday. The leader constructed roadside bombs, and distributed weapons throughout the area.

GHAZNI PROVINCE -- In Andar district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor discovered a weapons cache, today. The cache consisted of 2 RPGs, 3 RPG boosters, an RPG launcher, 175 7.62mm ammo rounds, a grenade, a pistol, and an AUP uniform. 

South

HELMAND PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and coalition SECFOR captured a Taliban leader and detained several suspected insurgents, during an op in Nad ‘Ali district, Oct. 30. The leader was responsible for conducting attacks against CF. The SecFor also seized 70-lbs (31 kgs) of homemade explosives.

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IRAQI STORY:

DIVDS

Electronic Warfare Meets Modern-Day Army

Story by Spc. Brandon Bednarek

COB WARRIOR -- In an ever-changing technological world, there exists an invisible plane of physics that allows communication devices to transmit their intended signals. Sometimes those signals work for us. Sometimes they work against us. 

To mitigate those differences, Army electronic warfare soldiers assess and analyze the electromagnetic and radio spectrums, in order to protect ground forces in hostile environments.

Electronic warfare, according to military doctrine, is defined as any military action involving the use of electromagnetic and directed energy, to control the electromagnetic spectrum to attack the enemy or adversary. With the rise of radio-controlled IEDs in Iraq and Afghanistan, the Army realized a growing need for experts in the electromagnetic spectrum. 

“The Army didn’t have an electronic warfare program going into Op Iraqi Freedom,” explained WO1 Steven Quast, an electronic warfare officer with the 4th Advise and Assist Bde, 1st AR Div. “When our adversary started using RCIEDs the need became obvious.”

That’s why, last year, the Army established a military occupational specialty, specifically dedicated to the electronic warfare realm. “The Army stood up a whole new MOS just for electronic warfare – and that’s exactly what was needed,” he said.

As an enlisted soldier, Quast felt he had reached the pinnacle as a fire support specialist, and sought out a new role within the Army, this time as a warrant officer. “I was looking for a brand new challenge – something that was fresh and was new,” he admitted. “I actually put in a warrant package, and I requested a re-class into electronic warfare.”

Along with 5 other WOs, Quast was among the few graduates of Fort Sill’s inaugural electronic warfare course. “My class was the very first ‘official’ 290A class,” he said. “There were 3 pilot courses to validate mine, but we were the first.”

Under the Army’s Info Ops, electronic warfare is divided into 3 divs:  electronic attack, electronic protect, and electronic support. "The most prevalent piece of electronic warfare equipment in the Army’s arsenal is the Counter-Radio Electronic Warfare (CREW) system, which acts like a mobile-based “jammer” to attack the enemy’s use of the radio spectrum," said Quast.

"However, because CREW systems manipulate the radio spectrum, EWOs must work closely with communications specialists, to ensure that military communication remains reliable and unaffected," Quast continued. “That’s where the finesse, so to speak, comes from - being able to attack the enemy’s use of it, while preventing degradation of your assets,” said Quast.

Having been deployed to both Iraq and Afghanistan, Quast revealed that understanding an area’s communication network, is imperative in determining how to protect or attack the radio spectrum.

“Iraq obviously has a lot more infrastructure - lots of modern-day type of communications,” he said. “Afghanistan, by contrast, has a lot less infrastructure, but a lot better use of different types of radios.”

"As a result, electronic warfare is quickly emerging as a fully integrated warfighting enabler in areas like Afghanistan, where a large number of equipment and targeting techniques are being fielded," said Quast.

"Although a newly created Army specialty, electronic warfare has played a significant role in military ops since WWII, where radar and jamming equipment heavily contributed to the successes of an Allied victory," Quast said.

Prior to Op Overlord at Normandy in 1944, a Royal AF sqdn deceived the German army, and convinced them that a second fleet of Allied ships was approaching another French coastline, according to the historyofwar.org website. "Armed with specialized jamming equipment, the sqdn’s planes mimicked the radar signatures of warships by flying “low and slow” across the English Channel," said Quast. 

"The use of radar also helped the Allied achieve victory in the Pacific campaign as well," Quast explained. “Once we started putting radar into American bombers and torpedo bombers, that’s when the tide started to kind of turn,” he said.

"The newly incorporated radar systems allowed American planes to successfully conduct night missions against a powerful Japanese fleet, which controlled the Pacific for most of the war," said Quast.

Like its use in WWII, electronic warfare has become a cornerstone in today’s military ops. One of the most important pieces of that cornerstone lies in the instruction and education of equipment that keeps soldiers protected. “That’s one of the reasons I really love this job,” said Quast. “I still get to be down at the company and battalion level talking to soldiers, seeing how they’re doing, and educating them.” 

As Quast checks the health and functionality of vehicle systems, he will quiz soldiers on the basic “know-hows” of the systems, and respond to questions that they may have. From his perspective, soldiers seem very attuned to what he has taught them.

“Today’s soldier is very technologically oriented; they catch on very quickly,” he said. “A lot of the time they want to know more about it. It almost gets to the point where you have to stop talking.”

"The limits of modern technology are constantly being tested, and as that happens, the Army’s electronic warfare program will adapt and evolve with it," said Quast.

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Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/11-01-11

Dear Interested Reader,

Bayonet Soldiers reflect on role in Balkh Prov.  Marines begin transition in Op Eastern Storm.  Purdue University prof. visits Sheik Zayed University.  Afghan govt to amend land law.  Commandos capture key insurgent.  ISAF Joint Command operational update, Oct. 30.

Iraq:  640th ASB wraps up mission at Camp Taji.

Joanna

____________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

DVIDS

Bayonet Soldiers Reflect on Role in Balkh Province

Story and photos by Staff Sgt. Christopher Klutts

ANP prepared a meal for soldiers with C Co, 40th Engr. Bn., 170th IBCT, Oct. 18.

BALKH PROVINCE – As 1st Lt. Zachary Weigelt and Staff Sgt. Christopher Lepczyk conducted their final patrols in Shor Tepah district, they didn’t act like soldiers preparing to return home – they acted like men leaving it. “It’s finally setting in,” said Weigelt, an Iowa native, at an Afghan police compound.

He was halfway through a 4-day mission to transfer his responsibilities to a fellow plt. leader in C Co. It was less than a week before that he and his soldiers started travel back to Baumholder, Germany, after 9 months deployed to Afghanistan’s border with Uzbekistan.

In a country where U.S. soldiers have conducted missions for more than 10 years, Shor Tepah was still relatively uncharted territory when C Co Soldiers arrived in early 2011. Lepczyk, a Nev. native, now a squad leader, said that his platoon patrolled to the village more times in their first month, than the previous unit had during their yearlong deployment.

Before the surge of troops to Afghanistan in 2010, there were nearly no U.S. forces in the district. “People wanted to know if we were Germans, because they’d never seen Americans before,” said Lt. Col. Erik Zetterstrom, a Vt. native, now the 40th Engr Bn cmdr.

Soldiers with 170th IBCT across RC- North are transitioning from traditionally structured bns. to streamlined SecFor advisory teams. As part of that transition, Weigelt and his soldiers were sent home.

However, gains in security and ongoing infrastructure projects won't be sacrificed. Another platoon from C Co will still patrol to Shor Tepah, until they too return to Baumholder in early 2012. "After that, projects underway will be monitored by soldiers from the next unit, although they will primarily focus on advising ANSF," Zetterstrom said.

"When they arrived, soldiers with 4th Platoon were ordered to train and partner with Afghan police, and to assist the district govt in providing essential services to its people," said Capt. Neil Kester, S.C. native, now the C Co cmdr.

"Deep relationships were forged through mutual needs," Lepczyk said. Police showed the Soldiers alternate routes through the district’s narrow village roads, around its web of irrigation systems, and across its desert expanse. Soldiers showed police new ways to fight, and cmdrs. how to better equip their patrolmen.

Most of Weigelt and Lepczyk’s farewells were quiet.  An Afghan Border Police (ABP) cmdr. sat still like a statue on the floor with his legs folded, as he shifted prayer beads on a necklace in his hands. His eyes were fixed somewhere beyond those in the meeting. He listened to the interpreter translate the news that his partners would be heading home.

“People see the building projects, the schools, the bridge and it’s good they see that,” he said. “But, they don’t see the good you’ve done for us in training.” Both police cmdrs. in Shor Tepah said that they were aware that transition after transition will eventually lead to the withdrawal of all U.S. forces from the country.

The chief of police in Shor Tepah said, “I’m sure we can handle the security of this area. We grew up with war. Everybody knows about the fight.” His point is evident at one the district’s schools, where a spent artillery round is used as a bell.

At the end of each multiday stay at the police compound, U.S. soldiers buy food that the Shor Tepah district chief of police insists on preparing. Their last mission was no exception. Weigelt enlisted soldiers from the incoming platoon to cut vegetables. The chief of police directed his patrolmen and the soldiers, as if he were calling orders during a mission.

Three hours later, Lepzcyk helped carry platters of the meal from the outdoor kitchen into the compound’s dining room, bootless, as he was still in someone else’s home. His standard issue socks padded the tile of a room he’d eaten in many times, but would never see again.

From left, Sgt. Aloysius Goodshield, a S.D., native, and Pvt. Amanda Parker, a Kan. native, walk to a school in Shor Tepah district, Oct. 19, 2011.

1st Lt. Zachary Weigelt assembles hand-crank radios for a man in Shor Tepah district, Oct. 18, 2011. Soldiers distributed the radios while assessing a culvert near Afghanistan's border with Uzbekistan.

Soldiers with C Co meet with Afghan govt officials during a brick laying ceremony at a school in Shor Tepah district, Oct. 19.

Spc. Donald Ditty, a Md. native, now a team leader with C Co, plays Red Rover with students at a school in Shor Tepah district, Oct. 19. The soldiers taught the children how to play, after participating in a brick laying ceremony for a new school building.

A boy runs during a game of Red Rover with Army Soldiers. Staff Sgt. Christopher Lepczyk, right, taught the children how to play. 

1st Lt. Zachary Weigelt prays during a brick laying ceremony. 

Soldiers with C Co meet with an ABP cmdr. in Shor Tepah district, Oct. 19.

A Soldier with C Co takes a photo of a desert plain, south of Afghanistan's border with Uzbekistan, Oct. 18.

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DVIDS

Marines Begin Transition in Op Eastern Storm

Story by Cpl. James Clark Photo by Cpl. James Clark

A Marine with 2nd Plt., Bravo Co, 1st Bn, 6th Marine Regt, crosses the water during a recent patrol through the area. Until recently the district was securely under the control of insurgent fighters who operated in the area, until the outset of Op Eastern storm, in which the Marines of 1/6 and Afghan soldiers surged into the area to eliminate the insurgent stronghold.

KAJAKI SOFLA DISTRICT, Helmand province – Just weeks after the outset of OpTofan Sharq (Eastern Storm), the Marines and sailors of 1st Bn. are turning their attention to strengthening relationships with local leadership in the vicinity, in an effort to further eliminate insurgent forces in the area.

The op is a major offensive to root out the Taliban-led insurgency in the Upper Sangin Valley region of Kajaki. The bn. began in Sangin and pushed north to Kajaki along Route 611, working with ANSF to push the insurgency out of the once-terrorized Kajaki area. The op is bringing security to the isolated district, making it safe for local residents to return to their homes, and allowing much-needed contract work to continue on the Kajaki Dam, which has the potential to provide a great deal of power for northern Helmand prov.

“Future ops planners have been looking at this area for years, mainly because the Kajaki Dam was built by American engrs., back in the ‘50s,” explained Capt. Paul Tremblay, company cmdr., Bravo Co, 1/6. “It’s something we gave to the Afghans that is no longer working, but the timing was never right until recently. Based on the success in Sangin, mainly from 3rd and 1st Bns, the decision was made to capitalize on those successes and surge 1/6 up here.”

Landing 2 plts. on the outskirts of the green zone, a veritable oasis, and pushing 1 plt. into the heart of the area, the company was able to pull off “a modern day aerial blitzkrieg,” Tremblay explained.

“The scheme of maneuver couldn't have been executed any more professionally or skillfully by the Marines of Bravo, 1/6,” Tremblay said. “We were able to overwhelm the enemy on multiple fronts in a very nonlinear fashion, in a rapid succession he couldn't cope with. When they got overwhelmed and saw the size we were bringing into the area, the majority of enemy cmdrs. fled to the north, leaving their mid-level cmdrs. in place.”

Marines now move through the bazaar outside PB Pennsylvania, a former narcotics hub in the region, and speak to the area’s residents, who previously feared reprisal from the roughly 300 insurgent fighters who have since fled the area.

With the threat of direct fire engagements dwindling, the Marines now fight a political battle for local support, in which they contend with insurgent cells returning to the area.
“What’s critical now is we have this momentum; we have some time to get established into our fixed sites to start a sustainable battle rhythm,” Tremblay explained. “There’s a lull in violence that we can capitalize on, integrating ANSF and police forces.  Basically, it’s a race how fast we can get Afghan solutions into the area, versus how fast Taliban can reintegrate. The reality on the ground is more disrupt, isolate, overwhelm, integrate ANSF, and then transition. At any point in time, at any day, any hour, we can be at any one of those. The point is to generate a tempo and a presence where we’re able to do all of those things simultaneously.”

The Marines of Bravo Co perform patrols at a ceaseless pace, moving through the bazaar and pushing out to the farthest boundaries of their AO. The goal is to keep a constant presence, and, in doing so, send a message to the local populace that coalition and Afghan forces are the dominant power in the area, not the insurgency.

Switching from a tactical mindset, in which the goal is to insert into an area and directly engage enemy forces, to working with local leadership and building rapport can be a challenge, but it is one the Marines are up to, according to Marines like Lance Cpl. Peter Hulme, a 60 mm mortarman from Va., who serves with 2nd Plt.

“When we first arrived we were pretty edgy, but since getting here, we’ve found the local populace is a lot more accepting,” explained Hulme, a 2010 graduate of Herndon High School. “We expected them to be more standoffish than they are.”

Operating in this situation, the Marines and sailors on the ground serve as goodwill ambassadors, while still maintaining a tactical mindset. Though the patrol rotation is grueling, Tremblay speaks with confidence about his junior leaders and their ability not only to keep up the pace, but also to operate independently and with minimal guidance - a necessity in counter-insurgency (COIN) ops.

“I’m a firm believer in maneuver warfare, and a firm believer that as long as Marines understand the intent, they can go out and execute,” said Tremblay. “I have phenomenal squad leaders and unbelievable team leaders. We're able to generate more momentum, because we're able to operate decentralized, because I trust them and they trust me.”

A Marine with 2nd Plt. provides security, during a recent patrol through the area. 

A child herds his donkey, laden with supplies, through the area. Marines are working with Afghan soldiers in Op Eastern Storm to force insurgents from the area and return security, allowing residents to return to their homes.

Marines conduct patrols through the area.

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DVIDS

Purdue University Professor Visits Sheik Zayed University

Story and photos by Army Sgt. Kaitlyn Ashby, 4-19th Indiana ADT     

Dr. James Lowenberg-DeBoer (center), a professor and associate dean of Purdue University, meets with Dr. Walizai, Sheik Zayed University (SZU) Chancellor (far left), and faculty members, Oct. 26.  Lowenberg-Deboer spoke about student activity in their greenhouses and test plots at the University.

KHOWST PROVINCE – The meeting between Lowenberg-DeBoer and SZU’s Dr. Walizai was facilitated by AF Col. Shane Halbrook, an Ind. native, and the cmdr. of the Indiana N.G.’s 4-19th ADT. “My intent is to identify universities for reach back capability for SZU; such as electronic media, classrooms, and instructors for labs,” said Halbrook.

Lowenberg-DeBoer, a professor in the Dept of Agricultural Economics, and Associate Dean and Director of International Programs in Agriculture, has been visiting universities across Afghanistan to help strengthen Afghan Agricultural faculties.

“I’m here to get an idea of how SZU can partner with Purdue or other Universities,” said Lowenberg-DeBoer. “Afghanistan is Purdue’s largest international commitment, and it’s my responsibility to develop programs that can help.”

Speaking in English and German, Lowenberg-DeBoer proposed enhancements for the school, students, curriculum, farming techniques, and the use of video conferencing lectures with Purdue.

“We can make a relationship with Purdue University,” said Walizai. “I'm thankful for the ADT and Dr. Lowenberg-DeBoer for coming here.  This new relationship will help us have a good future.”

AF Col. Shane Halbrook (far right), and Dr. Lowenberg-Deboer (mid-left), visit with Dr.  Walizai, chancellor of Sheik Zayed University (far left).         

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ISAF HQ Public Affairs

Afghan Government to Amend Land Law

Story and photos by Sgt. April Campbell

Members from various Afghan govt ministries and depts listen as Wahidullah Halimyav, a legal advisor working with Afghanistan’s Ministry of Ag., Irrigation and Livestock (MAIL), introduces the different amendments, during a consultation workshop to review proposed changes to the national law governing land mgt. in Kabul, Oct. 25.  Second only to the Afghan people, land is a crucial resource for the Afghan govt – they fight to secure it and work hard to develop it to bring economic stability to the nation.  In an effort to further these causes, the Afghan govt, partnered with the USAID’s Land Reform in Afghanistan Project, and members of the ISAF, are taking steps to better manage the land for the Afghan people. The laws governing land in Afghanistan range from a 1923 Code on the Sale of Govt Land, to a Land Mgt, Law signed into law by President Karzai in 2008. Once reviewed, this amended law must pass through Afghanistan’s Parliament before being signed into law.

KABUL – Members from various Afghan govt ministries and depts, including the Afghan Land Authority, or Arazi, participated in a consultation workshop to review proposed amendments to the national law governing land mgt., at the Afghanistan MAIL, Oct. 25-26.

“The land management law review workshop is an opportunity for stakeholders to participate in a consensus-based, inclusive process to amend land mgt. law,” said E. Jed Barton, the deputy director for USAID.

In Afghanistan, an estimated 89% of the land is owned by the govt. As most of this land is rural, agricultural land, Afghanistan’s MAIL is responsible for determining what land belongs to the govt, how to lease that land to the private sector, and what land belongs to individuals.

“The objective of identifying the land is not to obtain income from it, but how to obtain employment, and better the economy for the Afghan people. How much employment will the lease create? In light of these issues, I urge all the participants to review the law,” said Asif Rahimi, the MAIL.

As a directorate within MAIL, Arazi is responsible for managing govt land. During the past year, the dept has been working throughout Afghanistan to improve the govt’s ability to manage their land through land leasing, land conflict resolution, land transfer and exchange, land protection, land inventory, land registry, land rights identification, and land preparation.

“Our mission is to bring a very transparent entity to focus on all land mgt. issues, and also bring all land related issues, which may fall under other ministries or orgs, under one roof for mgt.,” said Haroon Zareef, the director for Arazi.

One way Arazi has done this is through the land rights identification process, or Tasfeya. Like many Afghan programs and procedures, Tasfeya, is a holistic process where a team of ministerial reps goes to the local community, takes statements from the local people, reviews the tax records, water rights registration, court documents, and historical maps to determine land ownership.

“The Tasfeya team, consisting of 3 members of Arazi and MAIL, and 1 rep each from the Ministries of Justice, Energy and Water, Finance and the local extension of the Ministry of Agriculture, analyze the info and issue a final decision. If either of the parties does not agree to the decision of the 7 people, then we send the forms to the courts, and they decide,” Zareef said.

Working closely with Arazi, the USAID’s LARA project members mentor the directorate to help them develop a system that incorporates traditional land practices and values, and encourages the Afghans to cultivate and develop their land.

“Through the LARA project, we are trying to encourage the govt to recognize customary deeds – some of the practices that are done locally to ensure that people have that security in their land – so that people can stay on the land they have spent years living on and investing in,” said Angela Cardenas, a USAID land reform advisor, and LARA project mgr.

One of the recommended amendments to the Land Mgt. Law reflects this incorporation of the customary deeds into the system. The suggested change, found in Article 5:  Legally Valid Documents, gives the authorities directions on how to validate such deeds.

Army Lt. Col. Robert Underwood, of Mont., would welcome such a change in the law to garner support for the Afghan govt. As the chief of ISAF’s Public Administration Service Cell, Underwood advises and works closely with MAIL, Arazi, the Afghan Geodesy and Cartography Head Office (Afghanistan’s national mapping org.), and the Independent Directorate of Local Governance, to help solve internal boundary issues.

“The govt will be better connected with the people if it protects their rights to the land they live on,” Underwood said. While the amended law is still being reviewed, Cardenas, the LARA project team members, and ISAF are furthering their efforts to work with the municipalities, where mayors largely control who owns the land.

“The LARA project is working to help the Afghan govt formalize informal settlements in Jalalabad,” Cardenas said. “These are people who don't have any recorded documentation of ownership, but have been living in places for, sometimes, up to 50 years. We want to work through the municipality to determine how those people can stay on their land.”

While the official city limits used to be much smaller, local Afghan people have moved into 6 informal districts around this eastern Afghan city. “The LARA team is working with the municipal govt and the Ministry of Urban Development and Affairs, to set up a system where the city of Jalalabad annexes these areas, and provides the people city services, like streets, power and garbage collection,” said Underwood. “The residents would pay taxes to the municipal govt to fund these services, and the people would receive some sort of formal deed to their land.”

While these plans are ongoing at the local level, working within the context of different land laws from 1923 to the current law passed 3 years ago, the amended law will be the unified voice of the national govt. Cardenas is hopeful the Afghan govt can come to a consensus, and use the democratic process to improve its ability to manage the Afghan land, in a way that most benefits the Afghan people. 

 

             

E. Jed Barton, the deputy director for the USAID, speaks to members from various Afghan govt ministries and depts, during a consultation workshop to review proposed amendments to the national law governing land mgt. 

Asif Rahimi, right, Afghan MAIL, listens as Habibullah Ghalib, left, the Afghan Minister of Justice, speaks to members from various Afghan govt ministries and depts.

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CJSOTF - Afghanistan

Afghan Commandos Capture Key Insurgent Figure

By Sgt. Lizette Hart

KONAR – Afghan Commandos captured a key insurgent figure, during clearing ops in Maya village, Khas Konar district, Oct. 25. The clearing op resulted in 18 killed enemies, a wounded enemy, and 2 unidentified personnel taken into custody by the Commandos. The wounded individual was later confirmed to be a significant insurgent leader.

The insurgent leader was involved in several aspects of the Khas Kunar insurgent org., including facilitation, finance and ops. In addition, a computer, which was discovered at the time of his detention, was found to contain multiple insurgent propaganda videos, including recordings of mortar teams and attacks on U.S. and Afghan military sites.

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DVIDS

ISAF Joint Command Operational Update, Oct. 30, 2011

ISAF Joint Command - Afghanistan

South

NIMROZ PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition patrol killed an insurgent leader and 2 other insurgents, during a weeklong ongoing op in Khash Rod district. The leader was responsible for the intimidation of local civilians and assassinations of Afghan govt officials. During the op, the armed leader and insurgents moved into position to engage a coalition helicopter. The patrol responded to the threat by firing at the insurgents, killing them. Two AK-47’s were confiscated and a quantity of ammo.

ZABUL PROVINCE -- In Qalat district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor captured a Taliban leader and detained 2 additional suspected insurgents, during an op to disrupt insurgent activity, yesterday. The leader coordinated roadside bomb attacks against CF.

HELMAND PROVINCE -- A CF discovered a weapons cache while on a routine security patrol in Kajaki district, yesterday. The cache consisted of detonation cord, numerous containers of home-made explosives, 20 pressure plates, various IED components, 4 82 mm mortars, a grenade, a 107 mm rocket, several variants of mines and small arms ammo.  

KANDAHAR PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an opn in search of a Taliban leader in Panjwa’i district,  yesterday. The leader distributes weapons in Panjwa’i district and plans attacks throughout Kandahar.

East

NANGARHAR PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor killed a Taliban leader and detained a suspected insurgent, during an op in Sherzad district, Oct. 29. The leader conducted ambush attacks against convoys of Afghan forces. An AK-47 assault rifle and a grenade were confiscated by the force.

KHOST PROVINCE -- In Manduzai district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained numerous suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Haqqani network leader. The leader plans attacks against Afghan forces. The SecFor confiscated multiple weapons during the op.

PAKTIYA PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Haqqani network leader in Gardez district, yesterday. The leader coordinates roadside bomb attacks in the Gardez district.

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IRAQI STORY:

News Blaze

640th ASB Wraps Up Mission at Camp Taji

Story and photos by Spc. Matthew Wright

Staff Sgt. Zachery Babb of Bravo Co, 640th ASB, works on the outside of a tail of a helicopter, in Camp Taji. 

CAMP TAJI -- The 640th ASB, a California N.G. unit, is preparing to split its ops between Iraq and Kuwait before finally heading home. The 640th ASB, the only aviation support battalion remaining in Iraq, has provided aviation support to all the Army aviation units assigned to the 40th CAB for the last 9 months.

"We're responsible for all logistics, communications and scheduled aircraft maintenance for the brigade," said Lt. Col. Lou Carmona, the 640th ASB's bn. cmdr. The bn's based in several cities in Southern California, including Torrance, El Cajon, Fresno, Stockton and Los Alamitos. It's organic to the 40th CAB, and is HQ in Long Beach, Calif. 

The 640th ASB played an essential role providing aviation support during the deployment. The bn's main base of ops has been Camp Taji, with detachments in Balad, Baghdad International Airport (BIAP) and Kirkuk. Several hundred Soldiers were assigned to 4 companies in the bn., performing 4 different support jobs.

HQ Co, 640th ASB, consists of wheeled-vehicle mechanics, medics, cooks, as well as the command staff for the bn. It contains the largest group of medics and cooks in the brigade, and its wheeled-vehicle and generator mechanics have been responsible for working on the vehicles and generators operated by other companies in the brigade.

Alpha Co, 640th ASB, operated Forward Arming and Refueling Points (FARPs) at Camp Taji and BIAP, and provided security for the brigade. At Camp Taji, Alpha Co fueled all aircraft that flew missions throughout central Iraq. Its fuelers also provided gas for IA aircraft.

Early on in the deployment, the 640th's Personnel Security Detail (PSD) provided security for supply and personnel convoys in the Baghdad area, and later, security for Camp Taji airfield.

Bravo Co, 640th ASB, is the largest company in the bn., with more than 300 personnel assigned. The company's aviation maintenance personnel ordered, tracked, warehoused and issued parts once they arrived in theater, and made sheet metal repairs to the helicopters. Also, the company's mechanics and electricians completed phase maintenance inspections on all aircraft, to ensure that the parts were replaced, and met all checked functions so they could perform their missions. Company maintenance test pilots put the helicopters through the prescribed flight checks after maintenance, to make sure that they were mission ready.

Charlie Co maintained and operated tactical communications and provided tactical, or mobile, communications for brigade units at Kirkuk, Taji and Speicher.

"We currently support 7 aviation bns.," said 640th, Command Sgt. Maj. Bryon Robinson. "Our Soldiers have pumped almost 2 million gallons of JP-8 jet fuel, completed 144 aircraft phases, and in the month of September, 14 CH-47D Chinook Helicopters broke a record, by flying more hours per airframe than ever before in the Army. They were able to do this because the 640th completed scheduled maintenance and inspections quicker than the Dept of the Army standard timeline."

Soldiers from Alpha Co, 640th ASB recently conducted a week-long class training IA personnel to operate Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Trucks, in preparation for the upcoming assumption of ops by ISF at the Camp Taji Airfield.

Training the IA and fueling weren't the only things that 640th excelled at during its tour. "We do whatever needs to get done, so that the aviation brigade can accomplish its mission," Carmona said.

"The bn. and the 549th Quartermaster Co worked in conjunction with the Mobility Redistribution Team (MRT), during Op Clean Sweep to locate and turn in more than $12 million of excess non-property book equipment at Camp Taji," Flores said. The bn. has collected and itemized unused or misplaced military equipment that has accumulated over the 8 years the Army has been here.

"The equipment found on the post that was serviceable included automotive parts, such as tires, Gator utility vehicle parts, and MRAP vehicle parts, and other items the military can make use of," said Capt. Joseph Adams, a planning officer with the 640th.

"In Taji, we're continuing to manage various classes of supply:  Class I (food and water), Class III (fuel) and Class V (ammo)," Carmona explained. "We support the brigade with numerous sustainment missions, like fuel, airfield security, Chinook and Apache aviation maintenance, computer, signal, and the Taji transportation control team."

"As units roll out, we need to ensure the logistic train follows them," Robinson said.  The 1204th ASB from Kentucky, assume the mission allowing the 640th demobilize, travel home, and celebrate their success with family and friends over the holiday's.

"This is a historic time and the responsibility on everyone, from me to the newest private, is immense," Carmona said.

Spc. Robert Paduano of Charlie Co, sets up a line of sight satellite dish at Camp Taji, on May 12, 2011. 

Two UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters take off from the Forward Ammo and Refueling Point at Camp Taji. Alpha Co, 640th ASB refuels all helicopters flying missions in northern Iraq. (Photo by Spc. Darriel Swatts)

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Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/10-31-11

Dear Interested Reader,

Soldiers conduct Halloween-theme marksmanship training. Kandahar ANA soldiers celebrate opening of new military clinic.  Soldiers of the 156th MP Det. lay down the law.  District HQ' personnel improve computer skills.  ISAF Joint Command operational update, Oct. 29, 2011.

Iraq:  California Guardsman recalls his palace life.

Joanna

___________________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

Blackanthem Military News

Soldiers Conduct Halloween-Themed Marksmanship Training

Story and photos by Sgt. Francis O'Brien

Spc. Christopher McInerney, a Va. native, shows off his multiple head shots using paper zombie targets at the weapons qualification range, at FOB Lagman, Zabul prov., Oct. 14. Virginia N.G. 116th IBCT Soldiers, took part in the Halloween-themed training exercise.

ZABUL PROVINCE -- "We survived the zombie apocalypse!" shouted Sgt. 1st Class Brian Powers as the last of the rifles fell silent. Powers, a Va. native with the Virginia Army N.G., was overseeing rifle marksmanship training. The cry "we survived!" meant that enough head shots had been scored by Soldiers of the Staunton-based 116th IBCT to successfully repel the hypothetical zombie apocalypse of the training scenario.

Zombies are fictional slow-moving reanimated corpses made famous by George Romero's classic horror film, "Night of the Living Dead" and AMC's popular TV show, "The Walking Dead." Like most famous pop culture monsters, zombies have a particular weakness: they can only be stopped by destroying or removing the head.

"I only shoot headshots," boasted Spc. Christopher McInerney, who was the best zombie marksman that day. "Zombies can't handle this," he added while striking a heroic pose. All the Soldiers shooting are assigned to the guard detail responsible for the security of the entrance and exit points of the 116th's ops center at FOB Lagman.  If necessary, Soldiers are authorized to use deadly force to defend the base.  Foot traffic to the ops center is forced to go through a narrow, tactical confine called a fatal funnel - easy to defend, yet hard for an enemy to escape.

"With our fatal funnel set-up, we'd have nothing but head shots," said Sgt. Aaron Stewart of N.C. "Our entry control point is very defensible from a zombie attack, and our level of motivation for today's training speaks for itself:  we're ready to kill some zombies."

Guard duty is traditionally one of the most important, but least exciting Army duties. Finding new ways to keep Soldiers engaged and interested was part of the inspiration for the Halloween-themed range.  Soldiers stateside normally train on their weapons using automated pop-up targets, and fire from 3 positions:  prone supported, prone unsupported, and kneeling. For the simulated zombie apocalypse, Soldiers fired standing or kneeling to replicate real world conditions.

"Here's a dirty little secret," said Sgt. Matthew Barry of Va., "zombie's have a very hard time opening combat locked doors on a vehicle, so get into a vehicle and fire from there."

"Many Soldiers have a hard time opening combat locked doors," joked Spc. Geoffrey Jackson of Va., to approving laughter from other Soldiers. While an armored vehicle appears to make an ideal strong hold, in a crisis it would be limited by fuel levels. According to the "Zombie Survival Guide" by Max Brooks, the ideal vehicle is a bicycle - light, fast, quiet, and easy to move over difficult terrain.

Although the conversations were hypothetical and the training lighthearted, real issues that could have had serious impacts in the event of an insurgent attack were identified as part of the training. Some weapons needed to have their sight posts adjusted. Some Soldiers needed a quick re-familiarization with marksmanship fundamentals. And there was an occasional weapon jam.

"You're shooting all around the head!" said Powers to one Soldier. "If that was a zombie, we'd all be dead."  What went unspoken, but was understood by all, was that whether it be a fictitious zombie or real enemy, hitting the target accurately is deadly serious business for Soldiers deployed to Afghanistan.

Soldiers of the Virginia Army N.G. 116th IBCT practice rifle marksmanship fundamentals.

Staff Sgt. Justin Moshkowski, a Va. native, shows off his multiple head shots.

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DVIDS

Kandahar ANA Soldiers Celebrate Opening of New Military Clinic

Story and photos by Sgt. Thomas Duval

ANA soldiers with the 205th Corps celebrated the opening of a new aid station at Camp Hero, in Kandahar, Oct. 26.

KANDAHAR AIRFIELD – For the past several months, ANA medics have trained with their ISAF counterparts to learn, practice, and ultimately master some of the most advanced medical practices used on today’s battlefields. As a result, hundreds of Afghan combat medics are entering the battlefield better prepared to treat both ANSF, as well as the Afghan populace.

Despite their constant efforts to stay on the forefront of medicine, a lack of supplies and modern facilities continues to hinder Afghan medical personnel, but for the Afghan soldiers in southern Kandahar Prov., that’s a fight that has come to an end.

The new facility features more than 150 rooms and offers many different amenities, such as an X-ray room, pharmacy, a dental room, nursing station, a hearing exam room, and a vision exam room. 

“We are very happy to have the new facility,” said Abdun Rahman, a medical doctor with the ANA’s 205th Corps. “We are very appreciative of the American people, and we're excited for the capabilities the updates allow us to perform. We have seen a lot of improvement.” Many of the ANA medical staff shared Rahman’s enthusiasm and were very excited for the future with their new aid station. “In the past, we had a bad facility that made treating patients difficult,” said Abdul Hamid, a nurse with the 205th Corps. 

“We're now able to treat, transport and house patients,” said Col. Hakim, medical doctor with ANA’s 205th Corps. Hakim said, "being able to provide 24-hour services to the people of Afghanistan has drastically lowered the number of patients being referred to the higher echelons for care. 

A pharmacy stocked with both preventive medicines, as well as over the counter drugs, allows the ANA to treat minor illnesses on the spot with a simple recommendation from the Afghan doctors. Hakim highlighted that since the opening of the aid station, the number of medical evacuations to Kandahar Regional Hospital has gone from 150 to 200 patients a week down to just 3. He said that he hopes to bring the number of medevacs to zero, as more medics and doctors continue to complete advanced training. 

Rahman added, "the capabilities of the medical staff and aid station should continue to improve, as the unit prepares to double its current staff as well as its equipment count. The ANA, in support of the ANSF, continues to lead the way in medicine, as well as improve its ability to self-sustain and support lower levels of governance.

Fazal Hayat, a dental asst. with the ANA's 205th Corps, treats a patient at an aid station on Camp Hero. 

An ANA soldier with the 205th Corps, prepares prescription medicines for distribution at the pharmacy section. 

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DVIDS

Soldiers of the 156th MP Detachment Lay Down the Law

Story and photos by Sgt. Richard Wrigley

Soldiers from the 156th MP Det., attached to the 1st Air Cav Bde (ACB), 1st Cav Div, exit their MRAP all-terrain vehicle outside the Balkh provincial prison, Oct 23. Soldiers of the 156th MP were at the prison in order to fulfill one of their many mission sets, by enrolling the local Afghan national prisoners into a biometric system, enabling coalition and Afghan forces to create a viable database in order to forensically identify criminals.

CAMP MARMAL -- "The primary objective of the 156th MP Det., is to keep law and order in Regional Command North.
They've done that … and so much more. With just 45 soldiers in the company, it's amazing that they're able to successfully complete this mission, let alone the multitude of other tasks that they take on," said Capt. Kenneth Murray, a native of W.Va., company cmdr., with an Army N.G. unit out of Monaville, W.Va.

"Some of these additional responsibilities include mentoring and training the various ANSF, and helping with the biometric enrollment of Afghan national prisoners, workers and SecFor," said Murray.  "Protecting CF while conducting route recon, area and point security, is also a top priority," he added.

“All of the soldiers here have gone to schools, and are meant to perform in specialized roles, such as criminal investigators, and traffic and accident investigators,” said Murray. “Generally, a law and order det., is augmented by another MP co., which would handle the patrolling, but here we’re forced to be the road MP, as well as the investigator,” he added. "To be dealt all the different mission sets that we’ve been assigned, with the minimal amount of people that we have ... the soldiers are doing a terrific job," said Murray.

Investigator Shane Bryant, a native of W.Va., and team chief of investigations at Camp Marmal, also said that the unit has made significant advances since the beginning of their deployment. “It’s all about building a strong foundation, and then building on top of that.  We’re only the 2nd MP unit to be here at Camp Marmal,” Bryant said. “Looking back to what it was like when we first got here, and to what it is now, our unit has made leaps and bounds.”

Success can also be seen in the relationship that has been fostered between the 156th MP DET and its operational parent unit, the 1st ACB. “Working with the 1st ACB has been fantastic,” said Murray, “The support we’ve received from the 1st ACB has been outstanding. They’ve taken us under their wing, and treat us just like any of their other subordinate units.” 

"The effect of the MP’s has had a positive effect on the 1st ACB," said Lt. Col. Michael Burns, a native of Ala., and deputy comm. officer of the 1st ACB. “The 1st ACB has definitely benefited from its relationship with the 156th MP Co,” said Burns. “There's no doubt in my mind that soldiers and civilians enjoy a safer and more disciplined environment, because of the presence of Capt. Murray and his soldiers.”

Investigator Shane Bryant takes a picture of a local Afghan prisoner.

Spc. Stephanie Brown, a native of W.Va., and a traffic accident investigator in the 156th, inspects supplies that are being shipped back to the U.S. as soldiers of the 155th Inland Cargo Transfer Co, 10th Trans. Bn, 7th Sust. Bde, prepare to redeploy back to Fort Eustis, Oct. 24. Customs checks all equipment and supplies that are to be shipped back to the U.S., and are one of the many responsibilities of the 156th MP.

Sgt. Christopher Parker (right), a native of W.Va., and an MP patrol supervisor, and Spc. Stephanie Brown inspect supplies that are being shipped back to the U.S. 

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DVIDS

District HQ’ Personnel Improve Computer Skills

By Capt. Bonnie Hutchinson

Soldiers from SecFor Assistance Team (SFAT)15, HHC, 2nd STB, 2nd BCT, 4th ID, teach Farah District HQ' workers to send digital reports to their higher HQ, Oct. 15-19.  HQ’ workers learned the fundamentals of how to use Microsoft Outlook, Excel and Word in order to understand the different methods of creating reports.

FARAH – Good communication skills are a necessity for a govt to be successful. For most of the HQ’ workers, this was the first time they had used a computer. “Basic computer skills come naturally to the U.S. military,” said Capt. Philip Hardwick, SFAT 15 officer-in-charge. “It's a skill that we should pass onto our ANSF partners, to ensure that we provide them with the tools necessary to effectively coordinate and share info.” 

During the training, workers learned the fundamentals of how to use Microsoft Outlook, Excel and Word in order to understand the different methods of creating reports. After they were able to create reports, they learned how to digitally send them. “It's important for CF to train ANSF on the non-tactical aspects of ops,” said Master Sgt. Danny Lujan, SFAT 15 NCO-in-charge. “Being able to more effectively plan and provide info to ANSF at all levels will not only aid in mission planning, but mission execution.”

Soldiers from SFAT 15, instruct Farah District HQ’ workers. 

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DVIDS

ISAF Joint Command Operational Update, Oct. 29, 2011

ISAF.Joint Command - A

South

KANDAHAR PROVINCE -- In Kandahar district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban leader, yesterday. The leader facilitates roadside bombs for use in attacks throughout the area.

HELMAND PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained 2 suspected insurgents, during a search for a Taliban leader in Nawah-ye Barakzai district, yesterday. The leader coordinates attacks against CF.

East

PAKTIKA PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor captured 2 Haqqani network leaders, during an opn in Sarobi district, Oct. 28.  One leader provided insurgent fighters with funding, weapons, supplies and safe havens, and the other leader coordinated attacks against Afghan forces. The SecFor detained 2 additional suspected insurgents. 

BAMYAN PROVINCE -- Afghan civilians discovered 3 weapons caches, and turned the contents over to CF in Kahmard district, yesterday. The caches consisted of an 85 mm rocket, an 82 mm recoilless rifle round, an anti-personnel mine, 120 40 mm grenade rounds, 101 grenades, 49 grenade fuses, 11 rockets, 8 RPGs, and 140 rounds of small arms ammo. 

LOGAR PROVINCE -- In Pul-e ‘Alam district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained 2 suspected insurgents during a search for a Haqqani network leader. The leader directs attacks against Afghan forces.

----- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained a suspected insurgent, during an op in search of a Taliban leader in Charkh district, yesterday. The leader is responsible for multiple attacks throughout the region. During the op the SecFor confiscated multiple RPGs.

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IRAQI STORY:

DVIDS

California Guardsman Recalls his Palace Life

Story and photos by 1st Lt. Jason Sweeney

Lt. Col. Raymond Watts, a liaison officer for the California Army N.G.’s 40th CAB, points out some of the sights that can be seen from atop the Al Faw Palace in Baghdad.

VICTORY BASE COMPLEX – A San Jose citizen soldier witnessed the final days of America’s 8-year conflict in Iraq from within the ornate halls, offices and conference rooms of the Al-Faw Palace. Over much of the past year, the California Army N.G.’s 40th CAB has commanded more than 259 rotary-wing and fixed-wing aircraft that have been performing full-spectrum aviation ops across the Iraq Joint Ops Area.

Lt. Col. Raymond Watts, a CH-47 Chinook cargo helicopter pilot, worked out of an office on the third floor of the Al Faw Palace, where he served as a liaison officer for most of 2011. Watts acted as the intermediary between the 40th CAB and its higher command, called United States Forces-Iraq. “This has been the center of gravity for USF-I,” Watts said, shortly before his tenure at Al Faw Palace came to an end. “It has been interesting working here, to say the least.”

Al Faw is a massive structure that dominates an island set in a man-made lake on Victory Base Complex. The palace was built by Saddam Hussein, but was taken over by U.S. forces in 2003, and became an HQ building for USF-I.

For the past 8 years, the halls of Al Faw were walked by some of the highest ranking personnel in the American military and govt. Full-bird cols. could seem as numerous as sgts. on the bridge that led to Al Faw’s arched entrance-way. Generals were a common sight under the huge chandelier that hangs above the palace’s expansive rotunda.

When units needed to move equipment and personnel across Iraq by air, Watts was the man in the middle who coordinated aviation missions with his brigade and the USF-I aviation staff at J33 Air. Watts has been serving as a part-time soldier with the N.G. for the past 31 years. For 15 years, he worked as a technology sales group mgr. in Silicon Valley, while flying Chinooks a weekend a month and 2 weeks a year with the Guard.

But in 2008, the technology company he worked for eliminated his sales group, and his 15-year career in the tech industry came to a halt. He then took a full-time position in Stockton, Calif., as a N.G. CH-47 helicopter facility cmdr., filling in after the previous cmdr. deployed to Iraq.

In 2011, it was Watts’ turn. He said goodbye to his wife and 3 children, and left his home in Calif. for Baghdad, arriving at the Al Faw Palace early this year.

Watts said that his children are somewhat enamored by the idea of their dad working in a palace. “But, being away is hard,” he said. “Granted, there are some luxuries and benefits working in the palace, but it’s the distance that’s been the challenge.”

Driving golf balls into the lake from palace balconies, rubbing elbows with America’s most influential and powerful people, and enjoying some of the Army’s best dining facilities were a few of the amenities. But, incoming mortar rounds were not uncommon, and served as a reminder that hostile forces were still out there.

Watts has left Al Faw for the more austere and isolated conditions at Al Asad Airbase in Iraq’s western desert, where he will finish out his deployment with the 40th CAB. “We’re leaving on our own accord,” Watts said, shortly before saying goodbye to his palace life. “I'm truly blessed to have had this opportunity to work with such a fine group of professionals. The staff here was the best of the best.”

Lt. Col. Raymond Watts stands in front of the Al Faw Palace. 

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Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/10-30-11

Dear Interested Reader,

Op Duke Blitz turns up heat on Haqqanis.  Maj. Gen. William Mayville visits FOB Salerno.  First Provincial Sports Center opens in Paktiya.  ANA begins community outreach in Nijrab.  ISAF Joint Command operational update, Oct. 28, 2011.

Iraq:  Soldiers continue legacy at COB Kalsu.

Joanna

_______________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

Operation Duke Blitz Turns up Heat on Haqqanis

Story by Staff Sgt. John Zumer

Army Pfc. Rion Vest, a medic Ore., and a member of 3rd Plt, Troop C, 6th Sqdn, 4th Cav Regt, TF Raider, climbs a trail in Star Kot village, Qalandar district, Oct. 19. Vest and his fellow troopers were participating in Op Raider Earthquake, a large-scale op to eliminate the Haqqani Network’s threat to the area. (Army photo by Capt. Mark Snowbarger)

AFGHANISTAN - ANSF and CF worked together in Khowst and Paktya Provs., Oct. 13-21 during Op Duke Blitz, a mission to push Haqqani network insurgents out of the area. The large-scale op, part of an even larger op, spread across 2 provinces. It was led by the ANSF and supported by several bns., from the Fort Knox, Ky.-based 3rd BCT, 1st Inf Div, TF Duke.

The main effort of Op Duke Blitz, dubbed “Op Nike IV,” was assigned to the 3rd BCT’s 1st Bn, 26th Inf Regt, TF Spader.
“This op showed that Afghan forces can extend the reach of their govt into the most remote, mountainous areas of Afghanistan, to provide security for the populace," said Army Maj. Ed Hollis, a native of Calif., and the ops officer for the 1st Bn., 26th Inf. Regt.

“The ANA put a great foot forward in an area that has been controlled by insurgents,” said Capt. Joshua Wiles, cmdr. of Co D, 1st Bn., 26th Inf. Regt. “The locals were very receptive to a permanent ANSF presence in the area,” he added.
Insurgent attempts to respond to the Afghan and coalition efforts met little success. One notable failure was an attempted complex attack in Gardez City, Paktya prov., Oct 16.

A policeman noticed a suspicious vehicle, and signaled for the driver to stop. A bomb inside the vehicle detonated, and was followed by attempted suicide attacks. Police killed 3 suicide bombers before they could detonate their vests. No civilian injuries were reported from the car blast.

The failed Haqqani efforts to lash out at the Afghan and CF didn’t surprise Army Lt. Col. Jesse Pearson, an Ill. native, and cmdr. of the 1st Bn., 26th Inf. Regt. “This is a center of Haqqani support ops, and that’s why they’re fighting so hard to retain it,” said Pearson. He added that much was learned about the Haqqani network, and how they operate in the area. “Op Nike IV was a very successful op,” said Pearson. “We captured some very important weapons caches and detainees.”

TF Creek sweeps enemy from plains, mountains. 'Shamsheer,' which translated from Dari means 'Sword,' is the name of the mission that brought the soldiers of the 1st Bn., 279th Inf. Regt. to the forefront of the fight. This prong of Op Duke Blitz was aimed at disrupting insurgent freedom of movement, and targeting locations associated with insurgent leadership in Zormat district, Paktya prov.

Similar to its parent op, Shamsheer was extremely successful in all respects, said Army Lt. Col. Chuck Booze, an Okla. resident, and cmdr. of the Oklahoma N.G.’s 1st Bn., 279th Inf., TF Creek. He added that the lingering benefits of moving unhindered into Haqqani network HQ, while experiencing no harassment, may prove to be the most lasting impact. “This op demonstrates the continued development and capabilities of the ANSF in taking the fight to the insurgency,” Booze said.

ANA, AUP and several companies of TF Creek soldiers collaborated to remove weapons caches, IEDs, and safe havens that had been used by insurgent forces. The efforts were directly responsible for the capture of a known Haqqani sub-cmdr.

Booze echoed the sentiments of fellow Op Duke Blitz officers, noting that the greatest benefits of the related ops may have been the reception offered by local citizens to the Afghan troops, and that reception’s effect upon the Haqqanis.
“We continue to see that when ANSF move into an area, the population responds favorably, and the insurgency is powerless to stop them,” he said.

TF Raider sends tremors through Haqqanis. For Troop C of the 6th Sqdn, 4th Cav Regt, TF Raider, 'Op Raider Earthquake' began before the sun rose on Oct. 19.  Air-lifted by helicopter to the Qalandar area, the troopers moved on to the village of Star Kot. "In the village itself, we ended up finding some anti-tank mines, grenades, a lot of machine gun ammo, 3 AK-47s and numerous mags,” said Capt. Mark Snowbarger, an infantryman from Ohio, and the cmdr. of Troop C, 6th Sqdn. 4th Cav. Regt.

Snowbarger credits good intel for leading them to the house where the cache was discovered. “The intel was very good, and the source was very descriptive," said Snowbarger, who further explained that, "according to villagers, the homeowner had left several days earlier, allegedly for Pakistan."  

From there, Troop C moved on to the next objective. Another cache was discovered in northern Nadir Shah Khot, consisting of 8 mortar rounds, recoilless rifle and RPG rounds, and small-arms ammo.  In addition to praising the performance of his troops, Snowbarger also felt that the ANSF performance was noteworthy, not only by providing security, but in responding to the needs of the people.

"The ANA did a very good job with the outer cordon part of the objective areas,” Snowbarger said. "In Starkot, the AUP conducted about a 45-minute key leader engagement (KLE) at the end with village elders, ensuring they knew who to contact for security concerns.”

"The cavalry was also there to support the main effort, with Troop A setting a blocking position to the west of TF Spader's objectives in Musa Khel," said Capt. Dean Carter, cmdr. of Troop A.  Carter, a native of Fla., said the blocking position prevented any insurgents from fleeing to the west. "The ANA were in the lead on the blocking position, searching all vehicles and personnel moving through the position. We mentored them in the procedures up front, and they took the mission from there,” said Carter.

"Insurgents may also find it increasingly more difficult to fund next year's fighting season," said Carter, due to ANA destruction of almost 30 acres of hashish.   

*Maj. Travis Dettmer and 1st Lt. Paul Jackson contributed to this report.

Staff Sgt. James Richardson (left) and 1st Lt. Bruce Griffin of both of Okla. (center), discuss current ops with their ANA partners during Op Shamsheer, in Paktya prov.  Both soldiers are part of the 1st Bn., 279th Inf Regt, out of Tulsa, Okla. (Army photo by Staff Sgt. Samantha Bennett)

Army soldiers of Co D, 1st Bn, 26th Inf Regt, 3rd BCT, TF Duke, climb a hill in Musa Khel District, Oct. 15. The soldiers were participating in Op Nike IV, part of a brigade-wide op to root out the Haqqani network in eastern Afghanistan. (Army photos by 2nd Lt. James Hodges)

Pfc. Daniel Love, an infantryman from Colo., attached to TF Duke, descends a hill in Musa Khel district, Oct. 15. Love was participating in Op Nike IV, meant to counter Haqqani influence in Khowst prov.

Army Pfc. Levi Baldon, a Colo., native and infantryman attached to TF Duke, searches a home in Musa Khel District for contraband.

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Blackanthem Military News

Maj. Gen. William Mayville Visits FOB Salerno

Story and photos by Spc. Tobey White

Maj. Gen. William Mayville, comm. gen. of the 1st ID based out of Fort Riley, Kan., awards the purple heart to several soldiers of the 3rd BCT, 1st ID, TF Duke, at FOB Salerno, Oct. 24.  After the ceremony, Mayville visited with key military leaders from TF Duke as part of a multi-day tour of ops in Regional Command-East. 

KHOWST PROVINCE -- Before attending the planned briefings, Mayville awarded the Purple Heart Medal to 9 soldiers for their contributions and sacrifices to the country. "You're doing a fantastic job," Mayville said after presenting the awards to the recipients. "This is a complicated place to fight."

He reminded soldiers that although the end of their deployment is right around the corner they need to stay focused on the task at hand. "Keep your eye on what is in front of you. You are about to enter a danger zone mentally," he warned. "Stay focused and that day will come."

After the awards ceremony, he attended a briefing on TF Duke current ops, and plans for the winter months. The briefing gave him a chance to understand the experiences that soldiers face on the ground.

Later, he flew to Camp Clark with Army Col. Chris Toner, cmdr. of TF Duke, and a native of Kan., to speak with ANA and TF Duke Soldiers about ops in the area. "This is about more than just fighting insurgents," Mayville said. "It's about making sure our partners have the capability to carry on the fight after we're gone. You're doing an awesome job."

He toured the HQ of the 6th Sqdn., 4th Cav Regt, 3rd BCT, 1st ID, TF Duke, and the ANA, and asked questions about the partnership between the 2 groups and their operating procedures.  He closed the day by reminding soldiers of the men and women who stayed behind at Fort Knox, and are working to prepare the way for the Duke Bde to come home.

Maj. Gen. William Mayville met with ANA Soldiers on FOB Clark, Oct. 25. While on FOB Clark, Mayville awarded 3 Army Commendation Medals for valor, and attended briefings about ops in the area. 

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

First Provincial Sports Center Opens in Paktiya

Story and photos by AF 1st Lt. Cammie Quinn

Afghan soccer players celebrate the opening of a new provincial sports complex in Paktiya Prov., Oct. 19.

PAKTIYA PROVINCE – More than 1,500 Afghans attended an inauguration ceremony at the new governor’s compound and jirga meeting hall, for the opening of the 1st provincial sports center, in eastern Afghanistan. Groups of local youth and adult sports teams joined with elders, tribal leaders and govt officials to participate in the ceremony, which also included recently-completed development projects.
 

“I’m here for the opening, to watch the performances, and listen to the speakers,” said Za Biuhllah, a 12-year old student from Gardez. Biuhllah added he would like to take up kick boxing and hopes to compete as a member of the Afghan Olympic team.

“I'm thankful for the support I’ve received from Paktiya and the CF,” said Gov. Juma Hamdard, during the inauguration ceremony. “We’ve opened and completed many projects in my 4 years as gov.”

“PRT Paktiya partners with the Afghan Govt to support development and governance for Afghans,” said AF Col. James Forand, from Mass., the provincial PRT cmdr. “Our team of military and civilian members work hand-in-hand with Afghans to facilitate reconstruction efforts in Paktiya prov., as they progress toward a sustainable transition.”

The sports complex. (AF photo courtesy)

Provincial kickboxing teams celebrate the GoA during a sports complex opening. The complex includes 360-degree seating, a distinguished guest area, and a sports field. 

More than 1,500 Afghans gathered to witness the opening.

Gov. Hamdard accepts an award from the provincial council, in recognition for recent developmental advances in Paktiya prov.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

ANA Begins Community Outreach in Nijrab

Written by French Army 1st Lt. Aurelie Lattes 

An Afghan Soldier delivers supplies to the teachers of the Zarshoy School for Girls in Nijrab district, Oct. 17. Along with French troops from TF La Fayette, the ANA mission expanded their community outreach.

KAPISA PROVINCE — Visiting the Zarshoy School for Girls, Oct. 17, ANA troops delivered school supplies and volleyball equipment to the students and teachers.  The aim of this mission was to evaluate, along with the principal and the academic inspector, requirements for building new classrooms and toilet facilities for the girls.

Afghan children receive school supplies. The visit to the Zarshoy School for Girls marks the start of a community outreach mission to the district, to strengthen and improve ANA relationships. (Photos courtesy of TF La Fayette PAO)

The principal, teachers and academic officials discuss requirements for building new classrooms and toilet facilities, with ANA leaders and members of the French Operating, Mentoring and Liaison Team, TF La Fayette. 

A young school girl shows off her first school kit, donated by Soldiers from the ANA’s 201st Corps. The visit marks the beginning of ANA community outreach missions in the district; reinforcing their commitment to the citizens. 

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DVIDS

ISAF Joint Command Operational Update, Oct. 28, 2011

ISAF Joint Command - Afghanistan

East

NANGARHAR PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained numerous suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban facilitator in Khugyani district, Oct. 27. The facilitator provides weapons, ammo, and roadside bombs to insurgents in the region. Multiple weapons were confiscated.

KHOST PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor captured a Haqqani network leader and detained multiple additional suspected insurgents, during an op in Nadir Shah Kot district, yesterday. The leader was responsible for coordinating attacks against Afghan forces.

----- Three insurgents were killed in Khowst District Center, after engaging Afghan forces with mortar rounds, yesterday. AUP detained 9 individuals, suspected of throwing an IED at an AUP checkpoint in Khowst District Center.

LOGAR PROVINCE -- In Pul-e ‘Alam district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Haqqani network leader, yesterday. The leader directs attacks and distributes weapons throughout the area for use against Afghan and CF.

GHAZNI PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op to disrupt an insurgent network in Gelan district, yesterday. The network is responsible for multiple attacks and ambushes against Afghan and CF.

----- Two insurgents were killed during an airstrike in Zankhan district, after possessing PKM and RPG weapon systems, yesterday. 

KUNAR PROVINCE -- Three insurgents were killed in Nari district after they were spotted before a rocket attack on a coalition base, and another 3 were killed in Bar Kunar district, during airstrikes after they attacked a coalition observation post (OP). 

PAKTIYA PROVINCE -- Three insurgents were detained by ANA and CF for illegally having weapons on their possession in Gardez district, yesterday. CF seized a weapons cache consisting of 150 x 7.62 rounds, an AK-47 and a 82 mm mortar round. 

-----Another 3 were detained by CF, after testing positive for explosive residues in Zurmat district.

Operations in RC-East are still ongoing.

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IRAQI STORY:

DVIDS

Soldiers Continue Legacy at COB Kalsu

Story and photos by Sgt. John Couffer

Soldiers of the 1st Bde, 1st Cav div, stand at attention, with their right hands raised, reciting the Oath of Enlistment, Oct 27. These soldiers decided to further their military careers, during a reenlistment ceremony, as OND draws to a close.

COB KALSU – Lt. Col. Stephen Dawson, the cmdr. of the 1st BSTB, 1st Bde, 1st Cav Div, had some special words for these soldiers. “It’s an honor and privilege this morning to be able to inaugurate your re-enlistment, to reaffirm your oath to the U.S. The Army is a profession, the most honorable and noble profession in all the U.S., and it's the most trusted profession,” said Dawson.

Some of these soldiers are re-enlisting for the first time, deciding to carry on Army life for another few years. “Originally, I was going to do 3 years and get out.  Then I started looking back; there's nothing back home for me,” said Ill. native, Spc. Steven Solomon, a petroleum supply specialist, assigned to HHC, 1st BSTB.

Solomon said that he looks forward to becoming a warrant officer or a CID agent, during his next installment of Army life.  He would also like to go to Alaska or Germany at some point in the next few years. He said it all depends on what happens in the next 2 years. “The Army gives you a guaranteed job for the next few years, get some education, free benefits; all you have to do is raise your right hand,” Solomon said.

“Even with the Army drawing down, retention is still very important,” said Sgt. Joaquin Goicoechea, an ops sgt., who practices retention responsibilities, assigned to HHT, 1st Bde, 1st Cav Div. Goicoechea said that he would advise all soldiers who are considering re-enlisting, to look at their available options prior to reenlisting. He said, "if you have family, it's best to discuss this with them. A soldier with family support is one that is set up for success.

"In making the decision to re-enlist," Goicoechea said, "it's more than a soldier signing a contract; the Army is making an obligation as well. When signing a contract, the Army makes a deal to pay and care for the soldier and their families for up to 6 years. “Nowhere in the U.S. are you going to find someone willing to pay you and promote you for doing your job, and guarantee that deal for up to 6 years,” Goicoechea said.

For some soldiers, it's their 2nd or 3rd time signing a contract, and for a select few, they've signed papers for the last time until retirement. “I love the Army; I love my job; I’m glad to be here,” said Puerto Rico native, Staff Sgt. Antonio Rodriguez, a squad leader assigned to Co C, 1st BSTB. “Everything I have, the Army gave me, and I’m not complaining.”

Rodriguez explained that he enlisted because he has always liked the Army, and he was looking for something he could do for a long time. Rodriguez originally planned on getting out after his first term, because of his experiences in the Army. He discussed the issue with his wife; she urged him to give the Army another shot. It's now 10 years later, and today marks his 5th and final enlistment until retirement.

“Most soldiers today reenlist because they love what the Army stands for, and are proud to be serving with their fellow brothers and sisters in the Armed Forces,” said Master Sgt. Cynthia Kling, a native of Texas, and the senior career counselor for the 1st Bde, 1st Cav Div. "When considering re-enlistment, all questions should be addressed to one’s career counselor, as re-enlistment policies are constantly changing, and the opportunities of the past are not there anymore," Kling said.

Lt. Col. Stephen Dawson, cmdr., administers the Oath of Enlistment. Dawson said that he's proud to be part of moments like these, to see soldiers make and fulfill commitments to their nation and the Army.

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Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/10-29-11

Dear Interested Reader,

COP Dand Patan MWR center boost morale for Okla. N.G.  COP Lion Life:  'Quiet is a good thing.'  Recruits train to fight for peace at KMTC.  Forces find over 5,000-lbs of IED material.  ISAF Joint Command evening operational update, Oct. 27, 2011.

Iraq:  Convoys prepare to leave COB Adder.

Joanna

_______________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

DVIDS

COP Dand Patan MWR Center Boost Morale for Okla. N.G.

Story and photo by Army Spc. Krey Robbins)

Spc. Joby Daugherty, an infantryman from Mo., assigned to Co D, 1st Bn, 279th Inf Regt, TF Creek, checks his e-mail and accesses family photos on COP Dand Patan, Oct. 20. The COP’s Morale, Welfare and Recreation center holds phones, computers, a card table, a DVD player and a projector, as well as half a dozen well padded lounge chairs for maximum movie watching comfort.

PAKTYA PROVINCE – There aren’t many amenities on remote COP Dand Patand, near the Pakistan border, but the soldiers of Co D make the most of their free time in their MWR center. “Having easy and constant access to phones to call friends and family back home is a nice way to take a mental break, and enjoy keeping up with what's going on back home,” said Pvt. Patrick McCrory, an infantryman from N.M. 

“Being able to log on at anytime and check email, and see pictures of my wife and kids helps me on a daily basis,” said Spc. Joby Daugherty. “Just being able to see what my family is doing, gives me a sense that even though I’m away, I’m not missing my kids grow-up.” 

Pvt. 1st Class Lauren Boyles, a petroleum supply specialist from Okla., uses the internet in a different way. “It’s awesome that I can order comfort items from Amazon, and receive them in Afghanistan,” said Boyles, “It takes a while to get here, but it’s worth the wait.”

When not shopping or staying in touch with their loved ones, many of the TF Creek soldiers use the gym to keep themselves fit to fight. The gym, named in honor of Sgt. Brent Maher, a Fallen Soldier from the Iowa Army N.G., who was killed in action last summer, and served on COP Dand Patan, houses 3 treadmills, 2 elliptical machines, various free weights, weight machines and exercise mats.

“Going to the gym helps me remain mission ready and in peak physical shape,” said Staff Sgt. Christopher Gray, an infantryman from Tenn. “I also find it a great way to wind down from a stressful day, and it keeps me mentally sharp as well.”

Sgt. David Holcomb, an administrative specialist from Okla., has lost over 20-lbs since deploying. “I throw on my body armor, and road march on the treadmill, or crank up the incline and walk up to 5 miles a day,” he said.

“The MWR is a great place for soldiers to get together and play video games, watch a movie, or just relax and play cards,” said 1st Sgt. James Boyer, Okla. native, and 1st sgt. 

Staff Sgt. Christopher Gray works on his sit-ups at the Sgt. Brent Maher Memorial Gym.

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Blackanthem Military News

COP Lion life: 'Quiet is a good thing'

Story and photos by Staff Sgt. Lindsey Kibler, ISAF PAO

Rifle and helmet belonging to Pfc. Sky Nosaka, a medic with 1st Bn, 5th Inf Regt, 1st Stryker BCT, 25th Inf Div, is currently at COP Lion in the Southern Kandahar Prov. 

COP LION - Deep in the village of Do' ab, near the tip of the Horn of Panjwa' i, lies COP Lion; the month-old COP is where Pfc. Sky Nosaka, of Colo., now calls home. Nosaka spent the past 5 months working as a medic in the clinics at Kandahar Airfield (KAF), FOB Zangabad and COP Mushan before, ultimately, setting up shop at COP Lion as a line medic.

The COP offers little of life's perks he experienced at KAF, like hot meals, daily showers, and the privacy of a bathroom stall, but he wouldn‟t have it any other way. "I like Lion a lot better than the other places before here. Things are a lot more serious down here," explained Nosaka. "I wanted to be a Soldier. I especially wanted to come to Afghanistan and feel like I've made a difference," he said.

Nosaka had a desire to be a line medic with an infantry company, and, while it wasn't a guarantee he would be assigned to a line unit once he graduated Advanced Individual Training, he said he was happy to find out he would be joining the 1/25th at Fort Wainwright, Alaska.

With half of his first deployment completed, Nosaka said that he's thankful it has been somewhat quiet. To date, he has only provided medical treatment to local Afghans. Medics are often exposed to the horrors of war, while treating the wounded, and are expected to expertly perform under pressure.

"It's easier, in a sense.  Medics will tell you that if it's one of your own guys, it's harder, and I don't doubt that," he said. "With the local nationals, we see gunshot wounds and amputations. They respond well to having us treat them. I think they're starting to trust us, and are appreciative of what we can do for them."

In his down time, Nosaka likes to make life at COP Lion as comfortable as possible for him and his battle buddies. Up bright and early, he spends his time cleaning the Role I aid station he both works and lives in. He can be found cooking hot meals on a makeshift grill — a hole in the ground filled with charcoal — or working on his carpentry skills by building shelves, and a horse shoe pit. He doesn‟t mind getting dirty. "I lived in the woods growing up, so this is all sort of the norm for me," he joked.

While it may be too quiet for some, he's looking forward to spending the rest of his deployment away from the busier life normally experienced at larger FOBs and bases. In his line of work, he said, "quiet is a good thing."

Pfc. Sky Nosaka prepares a makeshift grill before cooking. 

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DVIDS

Recruits Train to Fight for Peace at KMTC

Story and photos by Sgt. April Campbell

ANA Pvt. Imran Hashmaei practices the pass and review, prior to his graduation from basic training at the Kabul Military Training Center (KMTC), Oct. 20. For the 4th Basic Training Kandak soldiers, the ceremony marked the culmination of an 8-week transition from civilian to soldier. Hashmaei will serve as an infantryman with the ANA’s 201st Corps in Nangarhar prov.

KABUL – The graduates walked proudly across the stage that morning, not yet knowing where they would work, but certainly knowing for whom. Dressed not in caps and gowns, but berets and their military uniforms, these 1,400 Afghan soldiers had trained long and hard for this day. 

“There has been a big change. When we first came, we were civilians, so we didn’t know anything. Now, after 8 weeks, we're in the frame of mind of the army,” said ANA Pvt. Mohammad Ghamy. As a civilian, Ghamy had seen the effects of the Taliban on his community. “There were no jobs, and I saw so much fighting going on in my district, so I wanted to come and join the Ministry of Defense – come and serve my country,” Ghamy said. “My family encouraged me to join the military, serve the country, get the enemies out of our country, and help rebuild it.”

Where Pvt. Imran Hashmaei lived, the responsibility for security has transitioned largely into the hands of the Afghans. The sight of ANA soldiers in the local media encouraged his decision to serve. “When I saw the ANA training on the TV, I really liked the uniform. I talked to my family and said I wanted to join the military. My family supported me and said I could join,” Hashmaei said.

“When the soldiers come to KMTC, we tell them about their appearance, and the way of living in the army. We tell them how they need to be disciplined and how they need to appear, as long as they're going to be soldiers in the future,” said ANA Lt. Col. Habib Wardak, KMTC’s 4th Basic Training Kandak cmdr. 

That new way of living only seemed to strengthen their desire to make it through training. “I felt like my fellow countrymen were beside me,” said Ghamy. “They all spoke Dari and Pashtu. I didn’t feel nervous or scared.” Donning the uniform for the first time inspired the soldiers even more. “When I wear my uniform, I don’t feel different, but I have the passion to serve my country,” said Hashmaei.

That courage and passion served these soldiers well, as they tackled the challenges of basic training. These challenges are greater than for many of their counterparts around the world, as these soldiers must first learn to read and write. 
“The majority of the U.S. soldiers come in the military with a 12-year education, but the Afghan soldiers come in with zero education. By the time they leave basic training, they'll have received up to 60 hours, which will train them to read at a 3rd grade level, so they can read, write and basically understand more than they could when they got here,” said U.S. Army 1st Lt. Jaymon Bell, of Co A, 3rd Bn, 4th Inf Regt.  Bell, of Tenn., advises the cmdr. of the 1st Basic Training Kandak at KMTC.

This opportunity to read and write was the first for Ghamy. “This is the first time I'm getting literacy training,” Ghamy said. “I was a desert boy, a country boy, and I’d never seen it until I came into the ANA.” He hopes the education he receives in the military will help give him the opportunity to offer the children he'll have one day, a better future. “I didn't have an education, so I joined the service as an enlisted soldier,” he said. “If my children become educated, they'll be doctors or engrs., and be able to serve Afghanistan that way.”

Following their initial reading and writing lessons, the soldiers were able to move on to the more tactical side of basic training. With the ISAF service members primarily filling an advisory role, ANA drill instructors, like 1st Sgt. Hamad, conducted their training. “This training is very useful in the field after the recruits become part of the regular army,” Hamad said. “When they graduate, these tactics are useful against the enemy.”

“We've learned everything they've taught us completely – the basic fundamentals of marksmanship, assembling and reassembling weapons, the grenade range, a ten-kilometer ruck march, and live shooting with the M16,” Ghamy said.
“The urban training and the live-fire were the most interesting for me,” said Ghamy.  "I'll remember them forever.”

As for Hashmaei, the novelty of the weapons range has yet to wear off. “Everything I’ve learned here is interesting to me, because I want to be a soldier, but the most interesting part was shooting the M240B automatic rifle and the M249 squad automatic weapon,” Hashmaei said. “When I got here, I hadn't shot a weapon. The first time I got a weapon, I became more encouraged, and I get braver every day.”

Upon their graduation, the soldiers were told where they'll serve and employ their new skills. “I'm really proud of them,” said Wardak. “On the first day when they came here, they were villagers who didn’t know how to read, how to write, or how to shoot the weapons. Since they’ve been at basic training, there have been a lot of changes in their lives.”

The soldiers also appreciate these changes in themselves. “I'm much different,” said Ghamy. “I've been through 2 months of training, and I've learned a lot. I can use this training to save my life and save my country.” With that salvation, these Afghan soldiers who have trained well to fight the enemy today, hope to see a lasting peace in Afghanistan’s future.

“The people are tired of war, and I don’t want war anymore either, so I will serve my country to solve that problem,” Hashmaei said. “There'll be no more fighting in my country, and I'll do my best to make sure of that.”

ANA Pvt. Hashmaei writes a math equation during the literacy portion of basic training.

ANA Pvt. Ghamy writes “Afghanistan is our home” in Pashtu. 

ANA Pvt. Ghamy (center right), goes eyes right with his fellow soldiers, as they pass by the reviewing stand.

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Blackanthem Military News

Forces find over 5,000-lbs of IED material at Weesh Border Crossing

Afghan Border Police (ABP) discovered a truck at the Weesh Border Crossing containing over 5,000-lbs of bags filled with ammonium nitrate, October 21. (US Army Photo)

FOB SPIN BOLDAK - "Ammonium nitrate has been banned in Afghanistan, due to its use as home-made explosives and IEDs," said 1st Lt. Peter Conrardy, the EO of Bravo Troop. "This find highlights our partnership with the Afghans," he continued. "It also furthers our purpose of helping make Afghanistan a better and safer place for their people and the ABP here."

 

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ISAF Joint Command - Afghanistan

ISAF Joint Command Evening Operational Update, Oct. 27, 2011

South

URUZGAN PROVINCE — During a security op throughout the week in Shahid-E Hasas district, ANSF and CF spotted, and were engaged by insurgents from several fighting positions. The patrol returned fire, resulting in the death of several insurgents to include the group’s leader. The leader was responsible for coordinating prison escapes, facilitating IED, and suicide bombing attacks, and supplying lethal aid to insurgents. Several insurgents were detained.

----- In Deh Rawud district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor discovered a weapons cache, while conducting a security patrol today. The cache consisted of 5 107mm rockets.

KANDAHAR PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition security patrol discovered a weapons cache in Maiwand district, today. The cache consisted of an RPG, an RPG booster, and 5 82mm recoilless rifle rounds.

HELMAND PROVINCE -- In Nahr-E Saraj district, a combined Afghan and coalition security patrol detained an insurgent leader, during an op that occurred throughout the week. The insurgent leader was a tactical cmdr., responsible for planning attacks against ANSF and CF.  The op also seized a quantity of small arms.

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IRAQI STORY:

Convoys Prepare to Leave COB Adder

Story and photos by Spc. Anthony T Zane

The first truck of a large convoy carrying military tactical vehicles pulls out of the staging area on COB Adder, Oct. 25.

COB ADDER – Each day the number of convoys leaving Iraq is growing as OND nears the end of mission. Oct. has been a busy month, as many of the individual military units on COB Adder are packing up and sending equipment back home. "More and more convoys of vehicles and equipment are being packed up and shipped out in preparation to exit Iraq," said Staff Sgt. Erick Torres, convoy cmdr., 233rd Trans. Co, from Ala.

Each truck carrying military vehicles. including High-Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicles, MRAP vehicles, and tanks is backed up to a ramp, and the vehicles are carefully loaded onto the flatbeds. “The most challenging part of this job is loading the vehicles,” said Torres.

Once the cargo is loaded onto the trucks and the paperwork is complete, the convoy is then lined up at a designated staging area to await departure. The U.S. still has thousands of Soldiers, and an abundance of equipment that need to be shipped home before the year's end. Soldiers and civilian contractors work long hours to make sure equipment is packed properly and ready for transit.

"Part of being the convoy cmdr. is identifying vehicles and equipment by serial number, and matching them against the unit rosters before they're shipped," said Torres. "It makes for long days, but it's a necessary part of the process," he said. "Each convoy is assigned a security team to escort the cargo from COB Adder to their final destination," said Torres.

Flatbed trucks carrying high-mobility multipurpose wheeled vehicles and other cargo are lined up and ready for departure, Oct. 25.

High-mobility multipurpose wheeled vehicles are chained down to the flatbeds of the trucks.

Ready for departure.

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Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/10-28-11

Dear Interested Reader,

Marines enjoy pace of Nawa district's unique countryside.  TF Leatherneck forces Taliban out of upper Sangin Valley.  Georgia Marine turns hobby into career.  ADT trains agricultural agent on demo farm.  ISAF Joint Command operational update, Oct. 27, 2011.

Iraq:  Chinook flight engrs. fly 'All Night Long.'

Joanna

_____________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

DVIDS

Marines Enjoy Pace of Nawa District’s Unique Countryside

Story and photos by Cpl. Tommy Bellegarde

Nev. native LCpl. Daniel Wilson, a fireteam leader with Charlie Co, 1st Bn, 9th Marine Regt, patrols down a street in Khalaj village, Helmand prov. The Marines and AUP conduct regular partnered patrols in the area to maintain a security presence.

COMBAT OUTPOST JAKER – Cornfields, dirt paths, tree lines, and canals dominate the backcountry of Nawa district. This rugged, fertile community is quite the sight to see, a place where residents wear traditional attire, and live an agrarian lifestyle that may seem like a scene from the past.

The AUP conduct routine partnered patrols in the area with Marines from Charlie Co, to maintain a security presence, and to train the AUP in patrolling, as they learn to operate more independently in the district. The Marines arrived to the area in early June to assist their Afghan partners, and some noted the area is not what they expected.

“There aren't really improved roads,” said Ga. native LCpl. Kevin Brakhage, an assaultman with Charlie Co. “A lot of them are gravel; half of them are hardly there.  A lot of times, they just slap some sticks down to make bridges, with some branches and stuff over it. Sometimes it’s really thin, like just a stick that’s not even as wide as your foot, and we have to cross that.”

The landscape of Nawa has also surprised Brakhage. He was not expecting the area to be so lush and green, expecting it instead to be arid and mountainous. Others compare Nawa’s landscape to places back in the U.S. “Rural Pa., that’s kind of what it looks like, but it’s different, because you’re not going to see houses made of brick and mortar; you see them made of mud and straw, and 120 degrees,” said Nev. native LCpl. Daniel Wilson.

The heat, agricultural focus, and lack of technology in Nawa promote a slow-paced lifestyle, as does the area’s increased stability. The area has seen a tremendous decline in insurgent activity, since the Afghan govt took control of the area in 2009, but the Marines must remain in a constant state of alert for potential dangers. 

“You’ve got to make sure everybody’s where they need to be, doing what they’re supposed to be doing, watching their sectors of fire,” said Wilson, 24. “I’m checking myself constantly, making sure I’m looking up, also looking down, and making sure I’m not stepping on a pressure plate.”

The Marines maintain a security presence in the area, and focus on watching diligently for potential dangers, to set a good example as mentors for the AUP, so the AUP can learn proper patrolling techniques, and the importance of discipline.

“We do a lot of presence and security patrols,” said Brakhage. “We’ll go out there and take the AUP with us, and show them how things are supposed to be going on, let them interact with the people. We teach those guys, and they do a really good job – they’re learning.”

The AUP have taught the Marines as well, pointing out things on patrols the Marines otherwise wouldn’t think twice about. “As far as searching, they notice a lot of stuff Marines don’t,” said Brakhage. “They know their culture better, so if something’s going on over here, and that guy’s not wearing the right clothes, or because he’s not from this area or something, they'll notice and we’ll investigate. They’re really helpful. The people respond to them really well.”

The people seem happy with the presence of the troops. Children approach the Marines, asking them for candy, while Afghan men come outside to relax at night.  Marines and AUP offer food to the kids and greetings to the adults. “At night, usually the older men relax on a huge rug, and they’ll just chat about everything,” said Mass. native LCpl. Matt Callahan, a machine gunner. 

The slow pace serves as a testament to the hard work of CF in the area. The people no longer have to be afraid of insurgents and can live their lives for themselves and their families.

LCpl. Daniel Wilson (left) watches as other Marines with Charlie Co, patrol next to a cornfield. The Marines were en route to the banks of the nearby Helmand River.

Marines with Charlie Co, reunite with the rest of their squad, during a patrol stop in Nawa district. These Marines returned to the rest of their squad after pushing further down the banks of the adjacent Helmand River.

An AUP patrolman overlooks the Helmand River. This area of Nawa district has a complex water system of canals and streams, allowing for agriculture and greenery to grow throughout.

Ariz. native LCpl. Ammon Carter, a combat cameraman attached to Charlie Co, looks back to check the rear of a patrol. 

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DVIDS

TF Leatherneck Forces Taliban out of Upper Sangin Valley

Story by Maj. Bradley Gordon

An ANA Soldier takes a water break during ops along Route 611 between Sangin and Kajaki. The soldier is taking time to address an Afghan youth’s concern about their mission to rid the region of Taliban-led insurgents. (Official Marine Corps Photos by Staff Sgt. Ryan Smith)

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Helmand province -- CF with TF Leatherneck have kicked off Op Tofan Sharq (Eastern Storm), a major offensive op to root out the Taliban-led insurgency, in the Upper Sangin Valley region of Kajaki. After 5 days of pushing north from Sangin along Route 611, Coalition and ANSF have pushed the insurgency out of Kajaki and secured the road leading to the once-terrorized village.

“We are assisting the ANA’s 215th Corps to secure the main road between Sangin and Kajaki,” stated Brig. Gen. Lewis Craparotta, comm. gen., TF Leatherneck. “Senior Taliban cmdrs. have been killed or forced into the northern portion of Helmand. The conditions are being set to encourage families to move back to Kajaki, into their homes in order to allow life to get back to normal. We're giving the people an opportunity to live in peace, something they've not had in years.”

The Taliban was well-anchored in the area surrounding the dam, creating a significant security threat for any contractors willing to work in the area, and local residents. Recent opposition by local tribal leaders had developed toward insurgent activities in the area. This dissension is believed to be from the heavy taxation the Taliban had imposed on local Afghans, who used the resources provided by the dam.

The Kajaki Dam is the main power source for Sangin, and most of the Upper Sangin Valley. Originally constructed in 1953 as a result of an irrigation project by the USAID, recent reconstruction efforts have been slow and difficult. Security will enable repairs to existing power grids, as well as improvements to the irrigation system.

“We have an opportunity to improve the irrigation system for the farmers with limited investment,” said Craparotta. “Security and overall quality of life will change in the coming months.”

TF Leatherneck made many efforts to warn area insurgents through leaflet drops and radio messaging. These communication methods were used to give insurgents a chance to reintegrate with the GoA. “The insurgents knew we were coming, but they didn’t know when or how,“ said Craparotta. “The Marines in the field, fighting side-by-side with our Afghan partners overwhelmed the enemy. What is left of the insurgent force has probably withdrawn to the north.”

Marine Corps Cpl. Nathaniel Mullet, a Team Leader with RCT-8, watches the explosive charge detonate in Sangin. Marines clear obstructions in tree lines with explosives to gain better observation from their guard posts.

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DVIDS

Georgia Marine Turns Hobby into Career

Story and photos by Cpl. Marco Mancha

23-year-old Sgt. Christopher Holmstrom looks out over his vehicle during a convoy. The Ga. native is a Light Armored Vehicle mechanic with 2nd Light Armored Recon Bn, and is on his 2nd combat deployment in Afghanistan.

PATROL BASE WOLFPACK, Helmand province -- “There’s one thing my stepdad told me that I’ll never forget:  ‘If you always have a trade, you'll never go hungry.’” Holmstrom found out at a young age that he loved working with his hands, and figuring out how things worked.  As years passed, his curiosity for discovering how remote controlled cars and Robocop worked evolved into taking apart engines on vehicles, and putting them back together. Today, he continues his love for mechanics, working on 12-ton vehicles.

“90% of my learning mechanics was self-taught,” explained Holmstrom. “I had always wanted to be a mechanic, and if you ever passed by my house, there’d be a good chance you’d catch me working on my vehicle.” When he wasn’t working as a mechanic, and practicing gymnastics as a secondary hobby on his time off, Holmstrom said he really had no direction as a young man, and didn’t make it easy on his parents. The troublesome teenager still wasn’t unruly enough, however, for his mother and stepfather to give up on him. Holmstrom explained with a smile that he wouldn’t be where he’s at today if it wasn’t for them.

Holmstrom wasted no time putting his father’s advice to good use, after realizing the potential his parents saw in him. He wanted to make a change in his life to better himself, and to make his mother and father proud. From that point on the mechanical prodigy spent most of his free-time under a hood. 

He had finally found his trade, but he said he still wanted to accomplish something bigger. The 5-foot-10-inch Georgian decided to enlist and become one of 'The Few, The Proud.' “I joined because I wanted to make my parents proud,” said Holmstrom. “I had a lot of people disappointed in me growing up, and I wanted to change that. I wanted to become a better person.”

Holmstrom now finds himself on his 3rd deployment – his 2nd time in Afghanistan – nearly 5 years after joining. He’s still a mechanic, but now he works on Light Armored Vehicles, a pricey piece of equipment averaging $900,000 per vehicle. It’s Holmstrom’s job as an LAV mechanic to keep the 20-foot-long vehicle running. He’s changed, placed, and rebuilt more than 20 engines, since arriving in Afghanistan 6 months ago.

His hard work hasn’t gone unnoticed, and the Marines around him recognize his dedication. One Marine called Holmstrom an important member of the team of LAV mechanics. “He’s a good mechanic, because he worked with all types of vehicles outside the Marine Corps,” said fellow LAV mechanic Cpl. Austin Lange of Wisc. “I mean he knows exactly how an engine works, and he suggests things that are really good. He's definitely a necessary asset to the team.”

The team of a little more than a dozen Marines has learned a lot from Holmstrom, according to Lange. He said Holmstrom helped teach the rest of the mechanics as much as he could about the LAVs throughout the deployment. “I don’t just do it for myself, but for the Marines around me,” explained Holmstrom. “It’s like I said before; I do my best everyday to make my mom and dad proud. They believed in me even at my worst of times, and I just want to thank them for that. Mom, Dad, thank you.”

Sgt. Christopher Holmstrom scans the area while on a convoy patrol. The LAV mechanic has been on dozens of convoy missions since arriving in Afghanistan earlier this year.

Holmstrom continues his love for mechanics, working on 12-ton vehicles in the Marine Corps.

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DVIDS

Agribusiness Development Team Trains Agricultural Agent on Demo Farm

Story and photo by Army Sgt. Kaitlyn Ashby

Staff Sgt. Paul Hellmich, the engr. for the Indiana N.G.'s 4-19th ADT from Ind., trains Matun district agricultural extension agent (AEA) Nazifulla (center), on FOB Salerno, Oct. 20. Nazifulla was invited to FOB Salerno to discuss his current plans for Matun, and receive training on farming techniques. The soldiers of the ADT showed Nazifulla their demo farm, and practical methods of refining crops for better food security.

KHOWST PROVINCE – During the training, Staff Sgt. Paul Hellmich demonstrated gardening fundamentals in greenhouses, that mimic horticultural farming to the agent, Nazifulla. “It was nice to see an AEA actually come to Salerno and meet us on our demo farm, because I think it’s highly beneficial in teaching them how to do their job more effectively,” said Hellmich.

The ADT’s farm crew also showed Nazifulla compost pits, test plots, trees, a wheat field, and a chicken coop, and answered questions he had throughout the training. “The work Staff Sgt. Hellmich and the farm crew have done the last 2 months has really paid off,” said Sgt. 1st Class Tyron McNeal, the ADT’s farm crew supervisor from Ind. “The result of yesterday’s first AEA visit was a combination of American ingenuity and Afghan determination. We all look forward to future visits with other AEAs.”

When the visit ended, Nazifulla received soil testing kits to distribute to farmers in his district. “I hope more extension agents show up for more training,” said Spc. Bradley Darling, an agricultural development specialist for the ADT from  Ind. “I know it would make a difference.”

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DVIDS

ISAF Joint Command Operational Update, Oct. 27, 2011

ISAF Joint Command - Afghanistan

South

NIMROZ PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained 2 suspected insurgents, during an op to disrupt an insurgent network, as part of an ongoing op throughout the week in Khash Rod district, Oct. 25. The SecFor seized 88-lbs (40 kgs) of ammonium nitrate and other IED components.

ZABUL PROVINCE -- In Qalat district, a combined Afghan and coaltion SecFor detained 2 suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban leader, yesterday. The leader coordinates the placement of roadside bombs throughout the area, and plans attacks against CF. Bomb making materials were confiscated.

KANDAHAR PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban leader in Panjwa’i district, yesterday. The leader acquires heavy munitions for insurgents,  and plans ambush vehicle attacks throughout the region.

East

PAKTIYA PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor killed one insurgent and detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban leader in Zurmat district, Oct. 26. The leader constructs and stores roadside bombs and other weapons, and is also responsible for leading insurgent attacks against Afghan forces in both Zurmat and Gardez districts. Multiple rifles and grenades were confiscated.

----- In Sayyid Karam district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained 2 suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Haqqani network leader, yesterday. The leader coordinates roadside bomb attacks in Gardez district.

LOGAR PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained several suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Haqqani network facilitator in Pul-e ‘Alam district, yesterday. The facilitator plans attacks against CF in the district. The SecFor confiscated an RPG launcher, multiple RPGs, 2 AK-47 assault rifles, several ammo pouches, and 4 fragmentation grenades.

WARDAK PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor captured a Taliban leader and detained multiple suspected insurgents, during a security op in Chak-e Wardak district, yesterday. The leader conducted attacks against Afghan forces.

West

FARAH PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition patrol discovered a weapons cache during a security search in Bala Boluk district, yesterday. The cache contained 220-lbs (100 kgs) of explosives, a mortar system, a heavy machine gun, 4 RPGs, small arms ammo, and multiple IED components. 

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IRAQI STORY:

Blackanthem Military News

Chinook Flight Engineers Fly 'All Night Long'

Story and photos by Spc. Darriel Swatts

A CH-47 Chinook is about to take off, before a mission on the night of October 6, 2011, on Camp Taji. 

CAMP TAJI -- Flight engrs. play an integral role during CH-47 Chinook cargo helicopter flights. They're the eyes in the rear of the aircraft, providing vital info to the pilots, the muscle that handles cargo, and they ensure the safety of passengers that are strapped in for the ride.

"I am a Chinook pilot, and when we're in the seat, we can't see behind us," said Capt. Benjamin Winborn, of the 2nd General Support Aviation Bn, 211th Aviation Regt, an Army N.G. unit from Minnesota and Iowa.  Winborn is the cmdr. of B Co. "The flight engrs. provide us with aircraft clearance when we're flying. They load the passengers and cargo, and are in charge of how the aircraft is loaded."

B Co is currently deployed to Camp Taji, with the 1st General Support Aviation Bn, 171st Aviation Regt, a Georgia Army N.G. unit, attached to the 40th CAB from the California Army N.G.  B Co is the only Chinook unit left in Iraq.  Chinooks are typically flown during the nighttime hours to capitalize on the additional protection offered by darkness. As a result, the unit adopted the motto "All Night Long" from the title of a popular Lionel Ritchie tune.

The Chinook is a large tandem rotor helicopter with a rotor diameter of 60 feet. At more than 98 feet long, the pilots rely heavily on the flight engrs., to keep them informed on what's happening around the aircraft at all times. The Chinook is the Army's go-to heavy lift helicopter and equipment transporter. It's able to transport 33 troops and their gear, or 3 pallets of cargo, or a sling load (cargo suspended below the aircraft), or a combination of the 3, up to 26,000-lbs. 

"The flight engrs. in the Chinooks are really valuable. The amount of crew coordination that takes place between the pilots and the flight engrs., is through the roof," said Capt. John Allen, 40th CAB, a Brigade staff officer and Chinook pilot from Calif. "They've instruments in the back that we can't see, so we depend on them to know what they're looking at, then be able to articulate it to us up in the front."

"Some of the biggest challenges we face here are loading the cargo and people into the aircraft. Things are not always the same shape and size that we'd like," said Sgt. Joe Loscheider, flight engr. with the 2-211th, and a Minn. native. "It can easily be compared to playing Tetris at times."

"We are kind of like a moving co.," said Sgt. Andrew Anderson, flight engr., and a Minn. native. "The pilots are the drivers, and we're the muscle in the back getting it all done."

"Last month we flew more than 1,100 hours, which is a record for our airframe according to AMCOM (U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Command)," said Winborn.

With so many flights going out, the crews are hardly the same for each mission, and they often find themselves flying and working with different people on each flight. Every now and then the flight engrs. may find themselves flying with the 40th CAB's cmdr., Col. Mitch Medigovich, who is a Chinook pilot.

"It's fun to be able to fly around with the brigade cmdr.," said Loscheider. "He treats us like one of the guys. It's very informal; plus, it's nice to be able to just talk and have fun with the colonel."

"The Chinooks have been important any time we've had any drawdowns, repostures, or closing of bases. We move anything and everything we can to help expedite the whole process," said Allen. "Plus, we help take a load off the C-130s (cargo planes) and other fixed-wing assets, and oftentimes we are the sole provider of aerial assets to the bases that can't support fixed-wing aircraft."

Sgt. Joe Loscheider prepares to move his M240B machine gun into position, prior to heading out on a mission, the night of October 7, 2011.

A CH-47 Chinook prepares to lift a container of equipment off the ground, on the night of October 6, 2011.

A flight engr. keeps a vigilant eye out for trouble, while flying a mission the night of October 6, 2011. 

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Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/10-27-11

Dear Interested Reader,

The Matthew Freeman Project provides school supplies.  Marines continue Op Eastern Storm.  Ohio Reserve Marines support combat ops.  PRT physician's asst. treats patients at COP Herrera.  ISAF Joint Command operational update, Oct. 26, 2011.

Iraq:  Superchargers working to score A+ at Al Asad Air Base.

Joanna

__________________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

DVIDS

The Matthew Freeman Project Provides School Supplies

Story and photos by Staff Sgt. Christopher Klutts

1st Lt. Zachary Weigelt, an Iowa native, presents a picture of Marine Capt. Matthew Freeman, to teachers at a school for boys, Oct. 18. Soldiers with C Co, 40th Engr Bn, 170th IBCT delivered roughly 100-lbs of school supplies, provided by The Matthew Freeman Project:  Pens and Paper for Peace.

SHOR TEPAH – “Thank you for this,” said Mohammad Qul, a principal at a school for boys.  He paused, “and we are so sorry for her,” he added. The “her” Qul referred to was the mother of fallen Marine Capt. Matthew Freeman. Teachers stood around him holding new school supplies. Three microscopes drew the most excitement – a 300% increase in the school’s stock. 

According to the project’s website, Freeman called his mother 2 days before he was killed in action in Afghanistan, and said, “Mom, the kids would rather have pens and paper more than anything, even food and water.  Would you please start a collection and send them to me?”  His family saw to his wish.

As they entered the school’s courtyard, C Co Soldiers were greeted by applause from children who waited in rows. Quiet, grateful and visibly awestricken, students filed by as soldiers, who couldn’t contain their smiles, handed out pens, pencils and paper. The reserved composure of the students gave way to laughter only after the soldiers, in full body armor, started tossing a pink flying disc. 

“It’s definitely a feel good thing,” said Sgt. 1st Class Eric Fontaine, a R.I. native, now the 40th Engr Bn NCO-in-charge of civil affairs. Orgs. like the Richmond Hill, Ga.- based Freeman Project provide items not covered by larger, U.S.-funded infrastructure projects.  Missions like the one in Shor Tepah not only provide immediate assistance to recipients, but also allow soldiers to interact with Afghan citizens and govt officials. "Face-to-face events build a much needed rapport with people U.S. service members are trying to help," Fontaine said. 

“You can’t just show up and be respected,” Fontaine said. “It has to be something earned or deserved, or that precedes you.” Fontaine coordinated missions to give supplies to students in each of the bn’s 5 districts of responsibility.  Although long-term benefits lie in missions for charity, the direct impact on the student can't be ignored. Qul said, "one pencil or pen can last a student 2 to 3 months, and glue twice as long."

After presenting supplies to Qul and his teachers, 1st Lt. Zachary Weigelt told the faculty about Freeman and his family.
He held a picture of the Marine. “I’d like to have the family come here, so we can thank them and the kids can thank them,” Qul said to Weigelt. “One day, we'll have peace, and they can come to Afghanistan and visit.”

A teacher holds a microscope as 1st Lt. Zachary Weigelt hands out supplies. 

A student catches a flying disc from an Army soldier.

Pvt. Amanda Parker, a Kan. native, now a mechanic with C Co, hands a pencil to a student.

(From front), Army Staff Sgt. Vincent Adams, a N.Y. native, Spc. Patrick Riley, a N.H. native, and Pvt. Amanda Parker,  hand out pencils and pens, and big smiles, to students. 

Sgt. Aloysius Goodshield, a squad leader, and a S.D. native, hands a pen to a student.

Children wait to receive supplies at a school for boys.

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DVIDS

Marines Continue Operation Eastern Storm

Story by 1st Lt. Timothy Irish

Nev. native LCpl. Daniel Wilson, a fireteam leader with TF Leatherneck, patrols through a cornfield in Helmand prov. Some of the Marines were surprised with the vast amount of vegetation in the region, when they started major offensive ops against the Taliban-led insurgency, expecting instead to be operating in barren terrain like other areas of Helmand prov.  (Photos by Cpl. Tommy Bellegarde)

FOB DELARAM II — Op Eastern Storm continues to secure Route 611 from Sangin’s District Center to the Kajaki Dam. 
Marines from Regimental Combat Team (RCT) 8 and ANSF with the 215th Corps, ANA are participating in this op.
Securing this route opens a vital corridor for local citizens, Afghan govt officials, and merchants, to transit rapidly between several districts, giving residents a freedom of movement they haven’t experienced in more than a decade. Route 611 branches north off of Highway 1, also known as Ring Road, a major paved road encircling the nation.

“The people of the Upper Sangin Valley and Kajaki District have asked us to help them rid their homes of the insurgency,” said Col. Eric Smith, comm. officer of RCT-8. “The area immediately surrounding the dam will no longer be just a bubble of security.  Opening Route 611 allows the people to visit the markets in Sangin and Gereshk, and travel to the provincial capitol of Lashkar Gah. They're as much our allies in this op as is the Afghan soldier fighting alongside the Marine riflemen,” said Smith.

Increased security gains in the district of Sangin and Helmand prov., in the past 2 years have allowed coalition and ANSF to shift their attention north. “What you have is 2 security bubbles being connected and consolidated. The bubble around the Kajaki Dam is being connected to the bubble around Sangin’s District Center,” said Smith. “The insurgents have nowhere to go but out.”

Many local citizens have left the area, and those remaining suffered from Taliban murder and intimidation campaigns. The lack of ANSF or CF in the past has allowed parts of the area to become an insurgent safe-haven. The introduction of U.S. Marines and Afghan soldiers has been a welcomed sign. 

“Overall, the mood appears to be one of gratitude and relief -- gratitude that someone is there to help them get back to their lives, because insurgents have been there for so long,” commented Maj. William Sablan, the ops officer for RCT-8. “Some locals have approached the Marines and asked them if they can get back to farming, praying at the local mosque, and shopping in the bazaar. Really it's just relief that they can get back to normal everyday life,” said Sablan.

The op is still ongoing, yet it signifies an end to the Taliban’s ability to operate freely in Helmand prov. Coalition and ANSF forces have met with little enemy resistance, as engagements with insurgents have been limited to the discovery of IEDs, and small-arms firefights. “The overwhelming force of Afghan soldiers, police and U.S. Marines continues to push the insurgency out of the region,” said Brig. Gen. Lewis Craparotta, cmdr., TF Leatherneck.

For more information concerning Task Force Leatherneck operations, contact Major Bradley Gordon, Task Force Leatherneck public affairs officer at bradley.gordon@ afg.usmc.mil.

An AUP patrolman and Marines patrol through a creek adjacent to the Helmand River. Patrols sometimes must ford through water during ops in the area.

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DVIDS

Ohio Reserve Marines Support Combat Operations in Helmand

Story and photos by Sgt. Justin Shemanski

(Clockwise from back row, left) Sgt. John Paul Rodriguez, Cpl. Joshua Kelley, Cpl. Joshua Keeton, Sgt. Thomas Bolander, Cpl. Ryan Kaethow and Lance Cpl. Adam Roos pause for a photograph moments after returning to FOB Nolay, Oct. 16.  All Marines currently serve with Combat Logistics Co, Combat Logistics Bn 6 – an element of 2nd Marine Logistics Group (Fwd).

FOB NOLAY -- Many of the familiar trappings of life are half a world away from the small base nestled atop a hill on the outskirts of the Sangin Valley, but a handful of the Buckeye State’s own, who are based, here have found echoes of home in each other.  Ohio natives Keeton, Bolander, Kaethow and Roos are Marine Corps reservists, who've spent the last 3 months shoulder-to-shoulder supporting combat ops in Helmand prov. 

The rush of war has drawn the quartet closer, but other familiarities existed among them long before their boots touched down in Afghanistan. Their parent unit, with which they perform their monthly drills together, is MP Co Charlie, based in Dayton, Ohio. “It’s great being out here with these guys,” said LCpl. Adam Roos, a married father of one daughter. “To be able to talk about home and our families, and get to know the guys you drill with back home is nice. It makes us that much tighter,” he said.

Cpls. Ryan Kaethow and Joshua Keeton are also married with children. “We’d spend time together on drill weekends, and our wives still talk now that we're gone,” said Kaethow, who drives the lead truck for his platoon’s security team within the company. “There’s a closeness.”

This closeness is, in part, rooted in another combat zone. The men chewed some of the same dirt during a deployment in support of OIF, when they were activated in 2009. They returned home in January 2010. A year ago, each of them was nearly settled back into their respective post-deployment lives as college students, restaurant mgrs., and tree trimmers, when the opportunity for active service came knocking once again. Though they had been home for barely a year, all 3 men, along with security team leader Sgt. Thomas Bolander, volunteered to head to Afghanistan. 

The Marines are currently tasked with daily missions, escorting resupply convoys throughout their AO.  On occasion, they complete multiple trips in one day. The pace is a grueling one, but in the end, they all agree that their time and effort, factor into a greater purpose. “It’s all about support,” said Kaethow, as he explained how critical it is to ensure the riflemen have what they need to continue the fight. “We fuel their ops.”

The 4, along with the rest of CLB-6, still have a few months to go before they head back stateside. Though the busy schedule before them occupies nearly every minute of every waking hour, Ohio is never far from their minds. "I just miss being at home with my family, friends, and my dog," said Bolander. 

Kaethow’s daughter, now 2-years-old, was born while he was in Iraq. He looks forward to spending time with her and his wife. “We keep up in e-mails and pictures, but I’ve missed a lot of developments,” he said. “I just want to watch her grow up.”

The unit is currently fighting its way through the Upper Sangin Valley of Northern Helmand prov. “It’s an honor to be part of CLB-6, and to do our part to support 1/6,” said Bolander. 

Kelley, who serves as a vehicle cmdr. and navigator, added, “By the time we left Iraq, things were winding down, but here it’s fast paced … a lot more activity. It’s great to be a part of something so big. I’m proud to hit both wars of my generation.”

Cpl. Joshua Kelley serves as a vehicle cmdr. and navigator

Sgt. Thomas Bolander is a security team leader.

Cpl. Ryan Kaethow drives the lead truck for his platoon’s security team.

LCpl. Adam Roos serves as a machine gunner.

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DVIDS

PRT Physician’s Assistant Treats Patients at COP Herrera

Story and photo by Senior Airman Wesley Farnsworth

AF Capt. Benjamin McGarvey, PRT Paktya physician's asst., from Pa., treats a burn victim in the COP Herrera trauma center, Oct. 13. McGarvey supplemented the outpost when they lacked an assigned physician’s asst.

PAKTYA PROVINCE -- Trauma is an unfortunate reality of war, but military medical teams provide care to service members and the local population, increasing their chances to return home safely to their loved ones. “I worked with the medics on COP Herrera during training for this deployment, then again when I was on another mission,” McGarvey said. “When I heard they were going to be without a physician's asst., I saw an opportunity to help out and fill in the vacancy.”

Herrera is one of the leading COPs in Paktya prov., for treating trauma cases.  Since July, the medical team has treated 25 life-threatening traumas, countless burns, and several broken bones and cuts. “The experience and knowledge that Capt. McGarvey brought has helped us become a better aid station,” said Army Sgt. John Lowe, from Okla., the NCO-in -charge of the 1st Bn, 279th Inf Regt aid station. “He has taught us advanced medical techniques, and how to improve  our ops.” 

During McGarvey’s stay, the team treated their worst burn patient to date, when a 1-year-old boy with severe burns over 50% of his body was brought in for treatment at the clinic. “During that trauma, Capt. McGarvey ensured that we provided the correct medicines, and the proper amounts at the right time,” Lowe said. “With his knowledge and experience we were able to stabilize the patient after 3 hours, so he could be transported to a higher level care facility.”

“It was a great opportunity to work with and learn from, this medical team,” McGarvey said. “Their experience and medical knowledge clearly exceeds that of their peers and I’d love to work with them again.”

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DVIDS

ISAF Joint Command Operational Update, Oct. 26, 2011

ISAF Joint Command - Afghanistan

North

KUNDUZ PROVINCE -- In Aliabad district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained 2 suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban leader, yesterday. The leader coordinates attacks with other insurgent leaders in both Afghanistan and Pakistan.

South

HELMAND PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban leader in Marjah district, yesterday. The leader distributes and directs the placement of various victim-initiated IEDs. While securing the building, a female child was wounded. The SecFor provided initial treatment at the scene, and then transported the child to a coalition medical facility for further care.

East

KHOST PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor captured a Haqqani network leader in Sabari district, Oct. 25. The leader distributed roadside bombs and coordinated attacks against Afghan forces in the area. Multiple suspected insurgent were also detained.

----- In Sperah district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained a suspected insurgent, during an op in search of a Haqqani network leader, yesterday. The leader places roadside bombs and plans small arms attacks in the Sperah district center.

WARDAK PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor captured a Taliban leader during a security op in Sayyidabad district,  yesterday. The leader is responsible for the movement of fighters and abductions of Afghan govt officials. Two additional suspected insurgents were detained.

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IRAQI STORY:

DVIDS

Superchargers Working to Score A+

Courtesy Story and photo by 4th Sust. Brigade

Warrant Officer 1 Scott Garrett, a communication systems tech., with the 189th CSSB, 4th Sust Bde, 310th ESC, and Capt. Mark Williams, a communication systems officer with the 189th CSSB, and a native of Ill., set up a Very Small Aperture Terminal on the roof of the 189th CSSB HQ building.

AL ASAD AIR BASE – Capt. Mark Williams and Pfc. Rashaad McMannen, an info systems specialist with the 189th CSSB, seized an opportunity to expand their knowledge, and attended a civilian industry A+ certification prep class at Baghdad Signal University.  Soldiers need to be proficient in a myriad of different tasks that enable them to perform their duties in support of the mission, especially when deployed to a combat zone. 

Along with being proficient at basic soldiering skills, a specialized group of Soldiers within the 189th CSSB also provide automations and network support to the bn., and its supported units. These signal Soldiers have already received the highest quality of industry training from the Army School of Info Technology (IT) for their Military Occupational Specialty training. But, as the IT field continues to grow and change, so must a Soldier’s skill set.

“CompTIA is one of the main certification authorities for IT professionals,” Williams said. “They're commonly known as the voice of the world's IT industry. As a non-profit trade assn., advancing the global interests of IT professionals and companies, they focus on 4 main areas: education, certification, advocacy and philanthropy.” 

The class that Williams and McMannen attended concentrated on preparing them to take and pass the CompTIA A+ certification exam upon redeployment. This certification is coveted, because it provides the credentials to expand administrative rights and capabilities, which normally lead to expanding careers. 

CompTIA A+ certification validates foundation-level knowledge and skills necessary for a career in personal computer support. Two exams are necessary to be certified:  the CompTIA A+ Essentials and CompTIA A+ Practical Application tests.

“While working in the IT field, it’s important to demonstrate your knowledge of how computers work, and how to troubleshoot problems,” McMannen said. “The A+ certification prep course gave me a better foundation for understanding how computers work. The class provided a good starting point for achieving my certification.”

Williams has a background in general mgt., and sought the opportunity to attend the class in order to broaden his knowledge about the way computer systems operate. “I had minimal computer experience before joining the Army and becoming a signal officer.” Williams said. “The A+ class further helped me understand how a computer is put together, and how the different components work with one another, transforming what looks like just a box into a tool that has come to mean so much to our society.” 

Once soldiers obtain the CompTIA A+ certification, they'll be industry-certified with the credentials to access various types of computer hardware and software, and to hold positions in various types of orgs., as systems administrators.
"This A+ certification is seen as a spring board to other, more specialized certifications that could further enhance their careers and marketability," Williams said.

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Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/10-26-11

Dear Interested Reader,

Life on PB Boldak:  The routine of Weapons Co.  Army officer and wounded warrior husband stay strong.  Cannons help gain territory in Op Eastern Storm.  Partnered ops secure southern Laghman.  ISAF Joint Command operational update, Oct. 25, 2011.

Iraq:  American service members go the distance with Iraqi Olympians.

Joanna

___________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

DVIDS

Life on Patrol Base Boldak: The Routine of Weapons Co.

Story and photos by Cpl. Bryan Nygaard

Cpl. James Baker, a mortarman, and a native of Mass., stands behind a MK-19 grenade launcher, while standing Post 1 at PB Boldak, Helmand prov., Oct. 1. Boldak is the first line of defense for Camp Leatherneck, the largest coalition base in Helmand prov. It's manned by Weapons Co., 1st Bn., 25th Marines, a reserve unit based out of Fort Devens, Mass.

PATROL BASE BOLDAK – A horde of flies swarm above Cpl. James Baker’s head. They repeatedly swoop down and buzz around his face. He quickly swats one away, only to swat another moments later. Baker has been standing inside of a sandbag bunker, the size of an office cubicle for the past 6 hours. On his desk sits a MK-19 grenade launcher pointing towards the endless expanse of the Afghan desert. 

Baker is manning an observation post (OP).  It's a duty that lasts several hours, in which Marines watch for suspicious activity, and serve as the first responders in case of an enemy attack. Today, the only attack is coming from the hundreds of flies dive-bombing Baker’s face. 
“I’ve killed like 80 flies…at least it seems that way,” said Baker. “They don’t go away. You can keep killing them, and they just keep coming.”

A couple hundred yards away, an Afghan farmer is herding hundreds of sheep. That's all Baker really sees while on post. Every once in a while the silence is broken by another Marine’s voice on a radio.

The guard post scene is typical for Marines at Boldak. For Baker, his day started before sunrise when he replaced another Marine on a similar several hour-long shift. In addition to his body armor and helmet, he wears a metal bracelet with the name “Cpl. Nicholas Xiarhos” engraved on it. Xiarhos was Baker’s best friend growing up. He was killed by an IED 2 years ago in the Garmsir district while serving with 2nd Bn., 8th Marines. 

“Living on a PB is like living in a perpetual Groundhog Day,” said Cpl. Ryan Arsenault, a mortarman, and a native of Mass. “Time kind of stands still. Your life stops, but the world keeps going.”

The perpetual Groundhog Day Arsenault refers to consists of routine…and more routine. 
When the Marines here wake up, they shave, shower and conduct other morning necessities. However, there is no plumbing on Boldak. The Marines hygiene using bottled water with a hole punched in the cap, and rear-view mirrors broken off armored vehicles to see their reflection. They shower using baby wipes, or by grabbing some bottled water and stepping inside a room that looks like a telephone booth made out of plywood. 

Once they're done with hygiene, the Marines quickly eat breakfast, which consists of Pop-Tarts, packaged muffins or dry cereal. From there, they go to work. If a Marine is not standing post, he's on a patrol. If he's not on a patrol, then he's cleaning or maintaining some part of the base, filling the generators with fuel, or finishing a project like building a new kennel for the military working dogs. 

If the Marines have any free time, they exercise in the “prison gym,” which is a collection of free weights located in a dusty, dimly lit tent. At dusk, the Marines gather around a large wooden table and eat dinner together. On rare occasions, meat is taken out of a freezer and prepared with some canned vegetables, in a makeshift barbeque grill made out of a fuel drum. Paper plates piled with food are delivered to the Marines who are standing post. 

The conversations at dinner are reminiscent of friends meeting together at a tavern. In distinct New England accents, Marines can be heard griping about work, and about the Red Sox losing their last few games of the season. They frequently burst out in laughter from the ruthless joking and needling going back and forth. 

“We’re all from the same area,” said Arsenault. “We all love the same sports teams. We all know the same places. It’s different in the fleet where you have people from different backgrounds. Here everyone is almost the same person.” 

If there's a patrol going out the next day, the Marines will gather around a map to plan and discuss where they'll be patrolling. Once the meeting is concluded, the Marines retire to their tents to watch a movie. Some prepare the armored vehicles for patrolling the next day. 

At night, the Afghan sky is filled with stars, and the occasional helicopter or jet flying by. To the north are the bright lights of Leatherneck. To the south are the districts of Nad’Ali and Nahr-e-Sara, where firefights between U.K. troops and insurgents can be seen from time to time. 

The next morning, the routine starts over again. About once a week, a convoy will come in from Leatherneck carrying mail and care packages from home. Marines trade snacks and magazines sent from family and friends with each other, and throw the rest underneath their cots. 

Other than traditional mail, there's really no other way to contact home. Periodically, the Marines will rotate back to Leatherneck for a week of quick reaction force (QRF) duty. There they'll be able to use the wireless internet to get on Facebook and email. 

Staff Sgt. Jeremy Greenfield, a plt. sgt., and a native of Wash., enjoys being in the austere environment that he and his Marines have made home. “I like Boldak,” said Greenfield. “I wish I could stay up here. There’s less going on; no phones or computers.  It’s more of a sense of pride and ownership, because we own it. The Marines have been working to make it our own piece of home.”

LCpl. Adam Chaffee, a mortarman, and a native of N.H., watches the sun set while manning a post at PB Boldak. 

Marines hygiene at PB Boldak.

Sgt. Nathan Matos, a squad leader, and a native of Mass., fills a generator used to power the combat ops center.

Cpl. Marcus Yeakel, an anti-tank missileman, and a native of Kan., reads a newspaper. 

Marines go through a care package recently delivered in a convoy.

Sgt. Chris Thurlow, a military working dog handler, watches a movie to unwind in his tent.

Sgt. Jake Miller, a section leader, and a native of R.I, gets food prepared in a fuel drum, cut in half to make a barbeque grill. 

Cpl. Mackenzie Richards, a military working dog handler, and a native of R.I., conducts physical training with John, an explosives detection dog.

Cpl. Russ McDonald (left) and Lance Cpl. Justen Kazan, both mortarmen, and natives of Mass, exercise in the “prison gym.” 

Airmen with the 58th Sqdn, Royal AF, prepare to go out on patrol at PB Boldak, Sept. 30. Marines frequently partner with UK and Afghan troops, to conduct patrols throughout TF Belleau Wood’s area of ops (AO).

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DVIDS

Army Officer and Wounded Warrior Husband Stay Strong Despite Adversity

Story and photo by Army Staff Sgt. Amber Robinson, TF Bronco 

Lt. Col. Angela Quintalla, based out of Fort Bragg, N.C., assigned to the Forward Surgical Team attached to 3rd BCT, 25th ID, TF Bronco, stands at the 9/11 Memorial on FOB Fenty, in Nangarhar prov., after running the Army Ten Miler Shadow Run, Oct. 2. 

NANGARHAR PROVINCE – For many, running ten miles might be a daunting pursuit, but few consider how hard it would be to run a 10 mile race with only leg, or while deployed to a combat zone. For Angela and Peter Quintalla, running the Army 10-Miler was a different experience than it was for other runners.

Lt. Col. Angela Quintalla ran the race this year while deployed in the Eastern region of Afghanistan, while her husband, a former Special Forces soldier, ran on the Nine-Line Team, a group of Wounded Warriors, in Washington, D.C.  It's the third time he has run the race with a prosthetic leg. But running a 10 mile race was not always an option for Peter.

Peter was wounded in a training accident in 1997, but did not lose his leg until 2004. Peter’s initial prosthetic was not very accommodating.

“After soldiers began to return from combat in Afghanistan and Iraq with more war injuries, prosthetics got to be more advanced,” said Quintalla. “Initially it was a bit more difficult for Peter, because he had to get used to what they gave him. But now, through Care Coalition, Peter has gone from basic amputee to high-functioning.”

Care Coalition is an org., which provides services for injured Special Forces warriors in any phase of a recovery, to include various services such as education programs, and benefits for family members who may have lost their soldier. The org. caters not only to SF, but to injured Rangers, Delta Force, and Navy Seal service members.

“He was able to find Nine-Line through Care Coalition, and they sponsored him going to the race this year,” said Angela.  Aside from sponsoring Peter for the race, there are various other amenities Care Coalition has provided.

“Although Peter is now a very functional member of regular society again, and is out of the military, he continues to have certain medical needs,” said Angela, “and Care Coalition provides that.”

As a couple, the Quintallas have had to re-arrange their lives in various ways, but the one thing which has not changed is their determination to succeed together. “We're the same as we've always been.  There were just little things we had to change,” said Angela. “We have to make sure we take a little bit of extra time to plan trips, and make sure they've the proper amenities for Peter, but we just do what we have to do, and have gotten used to it. This is our life and we're living it like any normal family would, but with certain differences.”

As for the race, Peter adds that he's amazed at those who come to run, who have it much worse than him. “There are those running the race with multiple limbs missing,” he said. “It’s always an inspiration to see them out there.”

“I, of course wish we could've run the race together, but when I was in those last few miles, and needed a little extra push, I thought of those running against much more adversity, and I believed it gave me an extra push,” said Angela.

The story of Angela and Peter is one of perseverance and caring. Angela still says Peter is her “rock,” and Peter still worries about her while she serves in a war zone. This year, the Quintallas will continue to draw from each other and their supporting orgs, such as Care Coalition to get through their time apart, but mostly on each other. “He has always amazed me,” she concluded.

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DVIDS

Cannons Help Gain Territory in Operation Eastern Storm

Story and photos by Cpl. Clayton Vonderahe

Marines with Btry E, 2nd Bn, 12th Marine Regt, walk along the perilous Route 611, during a recent patrol through the area. The road is notorious for having IEDs buried in the ground and is pock-marked with craters from exploded IEDs.

FOB ZEEBRUGGE, Helmand province -- Howitzers recently fired over the mountains of Kajaki, striking targets they couldn't even see. Marines with Btry E, inserted themselves into an abandoned compound, under the cover of night to establish OP New York. The cannons rang out in support of the insertion, eliminating enemies holding positions against the Marines.

The btry. is currently supporting Op Tofan Sharq (Eastern Storm), a major offensive op to root out the Taliban-led insurgency in the Upper Sangin Valley region of Kajaki. The unit is working to push insurgents out of the area, ultimately increasing their ability to connect with 1st Bn, 6th Marine Regt, moving north from Sangin, and rid the “Green Zone” along the Helmand River of insurgents.

"To put it into perspective, Kajaki is kind of split into 2 parts," explained 1st Lt. Daniel Ealy, an artillery officer and W.Va., native. "Kajaki north is called Olya, and Kajaki south is Sofla. All the insurgents are in Sofla. We went down to where the border of Oyla and Sofla are, and we set in there. We essentially blocked them off from the north."

The Marines are blocking off the insurgent presence along Route 611, which is a north-south route from Sangin along the Helmand River, where the Marines, ANA, and AUP maintain a commanding presence.

In this area, Route 611 is a winding, dirt road, pock-marked with craters where IEDs have detonated. It's the width of a standard 2-lane street, but the only place safe to walk along the road, is a narrow path of no more than 2 feet wide, mainly identifiable by the unmistakable path created by the heavy foot traffic moving unwaveringly down the slim path. This is a stark contrast to the Route 611 south of the Sangin Bazaar, where it is paved and includes distinctly marked lanes, and even the occasional billboard.

The few civilians traveling Route 611 tend to stick to the poorly outlined path, aware of the hazards in a misplaced footstep. Civilians still occasionally travel the path, but the area is nearly completely deserted of its residents.

"The insurgents had forced everybody out of the area a long time ago," said Ealy. "The only thing citizens were allowed to do was come up during the daytime and farm, but not stay there at night. That's one of the things we're trying to do, allow them to come back into their areas, their residences. We're doing this so they can try to start a normal life again on their properties."

The Btry E Marines met heavy resistance shortly after securing PB New York. The insurgents responded to the Marines with mortar strikes, RPGs, machine gun and sniper rifle fire. The Marines swiftly responded with 2 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System strikes, 2 requests for fire support from the howitzer cannons, and an air strike.

"Everything is going smoothly," said Cpl. Sean Fullaway, the lead IED sweeper, and a Col. native. "Just by looking at it, you can tell this is a strategic location to have, and if it's strategic to us, it's strategic for the insurgents to have as well."

The new OP was attacked for 2 consecutive days, after the initial insertion of forces. The Marines and ANA soldiers worked in shifts performing a constant cycle of patrols through the area, and guarding the base from potential attacks.

Suppressing the insurgent presence in the area, provides the Marines and soldiers with the ability to clear the road of threats, and clear a path from the Kajaki District Center to FOB Zeebrugge. This allows the Marines to work with the area’s district gov., to make it safe for the local population to return to the Kajaki area.

"Our intentions are for the population’s good," said Fullaway. "We're trying to return their land that they rightfully own, back to them, and take the insurgents out of the area. One of the greatest moments for me was going through Sharp’s Alley."

Sharp’s Alley is a stretch of heavily vegetated land, that has been used to store weapons and contraband inside abandoned compounds for use against the Marines. The stretch of land was a hot spot for insurgent activity to any Marine presence before the insertion.

The Marines are currently holding the area, and blocking it from further insurgent activity, while 1st Bn clears Route 611 so it can, in time, become a safe road for travel.

Cpl. Ruben Morales, a motor transportation operator, places razor wire around the perimeter of the base to help secure it against enemy forces. The base received heavy resistance from insurgents during the initial days of the op to establish the location.

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DVIDS

Partnered Operations Secure Southern Laghman

Story by Spc. Leslie Goble

LAGHMAN PROVINCE – The 1st Bn, 179th Inf, 45th IBCT recently conducted a joint air assault op, that took place in several valleys surrounding Bad Pakh district, and included soldiers from the ANA, and members of the AUP.

This is the 1st bn-wide joint op securing crucial areas of Laghman prov. The op only strengthened the partnership between the 201st Corps and 45th IBCT, showing the ANSF taking the lead.

“They have a great advantage here,” said Capt. Brent Weece, cmdr. of Co C, 1st Bn, referring to partnering with Afghan forces, taking the lead in navigating through the terrain. “That’s why we're partnered.”

The units were air lifted in, and made their way down the mountains to search villages for IED making materials, small arms caches, and illegal drugs. The mission was to search the villages of the valley for any illegal activity, and to re-establish security in the valleys surrounding Bad Pakh district.

A fire fight broke out early in the op, resulting in 2 Coalition injuries whose wounds were not serious. Five insurgents were killed in the process by air strikes. No civilians were injured during the week-long joint op, that resulted in finding several weapons caches, more than 200- lbs of opium, an IED, and components used to make suicide vests.

In another valley joint forces spoke with local village leaders about the safety and security of the region. The village elders were humble, inviting, and allowed the Afghan forces to search the villages for caches. The leaders in the Shura also discussed expanding basic amenities deeper into the rural areas in the valleys. The elders spoke of needing roads, electrical power, and a medical clinic when the area becomes more secure.

ADTs and PRTs usually work in the more secure areas, since their primary goal is to build sustainable infrastructure for the districts. The teams are planning for a research and development farm, and a District Center in the area.

The 45th IBCT also conducted the largest aerial resupply, since their involvement in OEF, flying in more than 2 tons of water, food, and supplies for CF and their Afghan counterparts, in several different locations. Crews on the ground along with UH-60 Black Hawks, worked night and day to make sure the units were properly resupplied throughout the op.

“Resupply is the lifeblood of the op,” said Capt. John Fagan, the HHC, 179th Inf. logistics officer.

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DVIDS

ISAF Joint Command Operational Update, Oct. 25, 2011

ISAF Joint Command

North

TAKHAR PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and coalition SECFOR captured an Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan facilitator in Bangi district, yesterday. The facilitator was responsible for coordinating attacks against Afghan govt officials. The SecFor detained 2 additional suspected insurgents.

East

LAGHMAN PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained 2 suspected insurgents during an op in search of a Hezb-e Islami Gulbuddin and Taliban leader in Alingar district, yesterday. The leader plans direct fire and roadside bomb attacks against Afghan forces. Six RPG boosters were confiscated.

WARDAK PROVINCE -- In Sayyidabad district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban facilitator, yesterday. The facilitator is responsible for conducting abductions, roadside bomb, and direct fire attacks throughout the region.

LOGAR PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor captured a Haqqani network facilitator in Pul-e ‘Alam district, yesterday. The facilitator coordinated insurgent activity in the region. Multiple additional suspected insurgents were detained.

KHOST PROVINCE -- In Terayzai district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor captured a Haqqani network facilitator, yesterday. The facilitator distributed rockets, roadside bombs, and conducted attacks against Afghan forces. One additional suspected insurgent was detained.

PAKTIYA PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor conducted an op in search of a Taliban leader in Zurmat district, yesterday. The leader constructs and stores roadside bombs and other weapons. He also leads insurgents in attacks against Afghan forces in both Zurmat and Gardez districts. The SecFor confiscated bomb making materials.

PAKTIKA PROVINCE -- In Ziruk district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained a suspected insurgent, during an op in search of a Haqqani network facilitator, yesterday. The facilitator specializes in roadside bomb construction, and provides explosives training to fellow insurgent leaders in the area.

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IRAQ STORY:

USF-Iraq

American Service Members go the Distance with Iraqi Olympians

Story and photos by Sgt. A.M. LaVey 

Members of the Iraqi men's mid-to-long distance Olympic running team enjoy lunch, after a run with American service members, Oct. 23. American service members got the chance to train and run a 5-k with the Olympians, during a goodwill visit, that included a running clinic.

AL ASAD AIR BASE -- "We asked them to come down and share their training routine, and some of the challenges of training that they face here in Iraq with us," said Lt. Gen. Frank Helmick, deputy comm. gen. for ops, United States Forces-Iraq.

The team, half of its members also in the IA running club, have interacted with American troops once before, but it was limited to a game of soccer. "We love the Americans," said Waud Disman, half-marathoner and team member. "We wanted to meet and run with them."

Military relations have been strengthened through sport participation, since the ancient beginning of the Olympic Games, and an event like this is a type of diplomacy that can transcend cultural differences, and bring soldiers from different nations together.

"There are no nationalities or religions in sports," said Helmick. "Athletics and fitness transcends all those different boundaries." American forces, throughout the last 8 years, have made it a point to use sports to reach out to the Iraqi people.

"I think it's most important that we expose as many Iraqis as we can to our military," said Helmick. "Our service members are great ambassadors to the world.  I really think that there are no relationships between countries; there are only relationships between people," said Helmick, "and we're working to strengthen these relationships in Iraq every day."

Unlike American professional athletes, these runners receive only a living stipend of the equivalent of 200 U.S. dollars a month, which the runners must use to purchase their own equipment, pay for training, and feed their families.

After hearing that some of the team were running in bare feet, because they couldn't afford shoes, USF-I service members presented boxes of shoes to the team before they left. "I'm amazed that they can perform so well with so few resources," said Maj. Gen. Jeffrey Buchanan, director of strategic effects, USF-I, and one of the runners who ran with the team today. "I think it says volumes about the love of sport and the pride of representing one's country."

At a presentation after the run, one of the Iraqi runners shared his team's thoughts with the assembled runners. "Today was very different from a normal day in our lives," said Hamid Kadhim, a team member from Baghdad. "We thank you. We'll remember this day for the rest of our lives."

As American forces prepare for the transition to Iraq by the end of the year, events like this show the shared level of commitment of the American service members to their Iraqi comrades.

"I couldn't help but think of how far we've come in this country," said Buchanan. "The opportunities the Iraqis now have, ranging from growing security, to economic development to strengthening democracy, to an inspirational Olympic team, have been created through a great deal of sacrifice, both Iraqi and American."

"My greatest hope is that the Iraqis reach their potential," said Buchanan. "If today's run was any indication, the future is bright indeed."

Lt. Gen. Frank Helmick presents paratrooper gifts to members of the Iraqi men's mid-to-long distance Olympic running team. 

Lt. Gen. Frank Helmick and his senior enlisted adviser, Command Sgt. Maj. Earl Rice lead the pack. . (Army photo by Col. Kevin Arata)

Lt. Gen. Helmick meets with members of the Iraqi men's running team. 

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Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/10-25-11

Dear Interested Reader,

'Cat in the Hat' becomes a major op.  New French partners take Kapisa command.  Coalition partnership improves logistics throughout Khowst, Paktya.  Cmdrs. visit Panjwa'i.  ISAF Joint Command operational update, Oct. 24.

Iraq:  U.S. Forces complete COB Marez transition, legacy.

Joanna

_______________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

RC-East, Bagram Media Center

'Cat in the Hat' Becomes a Major Operation

Written by Maj. Lindy White, TF Thunderbird 

The first, all-girls class enrolled in Op Cat in the Hat, sits and listens as 1st Lt. Elizabeth Bloomfield, of Iowa, mgr. of  contracting officer reps with the 45th IBCT, reads a book.  Bloomfield coordinated the efforts to begin these classes that have brought a community together in Bagram, by teaching young children English through reading. (AF photos by Master Sgt. James Wooding)

PARWAN PROVINCE – Op Cat in the Hat opened its doors to the children of Bagram on Oct. 13. The first 2 classes consisted of 21 boys and 19 girls who received a curriculum in English. “The students were very excited about their first day and couldn't contain their smiles,” said 1st Lt. Elizabeth Bloomfied.

Op Cat in the Hat originally started after the Bagram elders requested that Americans help teach their children English.
Bloomfield was introduced to the concept by 1st Lt. Martha Garcia and Staff Sgt. Carlos Llanes of the 101st Div., during her deployment with the Iowa N.G. Bloomfield decided to extend her tour, and work with the 45th IBCT to see the concept of the school come to fruition.

Bloomfield has a degree in education and teaches kindergarten through 8th grade in her civilian job in Iowa.  Her background helps her to both teach the children and mentor the volunteers and teachers. “This experience will help my wife and me to be better teachers,” said Hedayatullah, an English teacher from the village. “We appreciate the lessons; we're learning from Ms. Bloomfield."

Hedayatullah and his wife continue to gain experience through this reading program. He expressed excitement about how the teachers like the students, and students like their teachers. The program is well received by the local Bagram community, and Soldiers have been told by the Afghans that a hundred more parents want to enroll their children.

“One day, I want to see more schools for my village to make education better,” said Hedayatullah, an English teacher in the village. “The parents are very happy and thank us for teaching English classes.”

The school operates on donations to the program.  One of the biggest supporters of the project is the Adopt a Soldier Platoon, which supplied 40 laptops for the students. Op Care, a local Bagram charity, provided many of the school supplies and books. Churches and individual soldiers have also donationed supplies to support the school and the effort.

“This is definitely a program that will expand,” said Master Sgt. James Wooding of Mass., anti-terrorism force protection supervisor, assigned to the 45th IBCT, and volunteer for the program. “This has allowed for tearing down barriers  between the local Afghans and the military… it has helped us build trust.”

The success of the community effort and work of the volunteers continues to reach new milestones. What started as an idea is now a reality, and one that have parents waiting to enroll their children. “The full class of girls is ground breaking,” said Bloomfield. “The Bagram community has been known to be very conservative, so we're very happy to be able to share this opportunity with the girls. I hope we can continue this level of trust with the local community.”

Boys sit and listen as 1st Lt. Elizabeth Bloomfield holds up picture cards and teaches the children the name of the object in the picture. 

The first class of boys enrolled in Op Cat in the Hat give a thumbs-up after their first class.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

New French Partners Take Kapisa Command

Written by By French Army 1st Lt. Aurelie Lattes

Maj. Gen. Daniel Allyn (left), cmdr., RC-East, passes the colors of TF La Fayette to the unit’s newest cmdr., French Brig. Gen. Jean-Pierre Pallasset, Oct. 15. (Photo courtesy of TF La Fayette PAO)

KAPISA PROVINCE – French Coalition partners in eastern Afghanistan welcomed a new brigade-sized TF, as French Brig. Gen. Pallasset succeeded French Brig. Gen. Emmanuel Maurin for command of TF La Fayette.  Held at the Nijrab French military camp, French Maj. Gen. Charpentier, cmdr., French land forces, welcomed Maj. Gen. Daniel Allyn,  French Ambassador Bernard Bajolet, and Afghan General Yar Mohamed, cmdr., 201st ANA Corps.

Speaking for the last time to TF La Fayette Soldiers, Maurin said that he was proud of the work accomplished and confident in the capacity of the ANSF. “The ANSF are henceforth in charge of ops. We’ll continue to support them until it would be necessary, but, they successfully win daily,” he said.

He pointed out the last op in Uzbeen valley, where Afghan troops of the 31st and 32nd Kandak led the main effort, supported by French units of TF La Fayette. He also pointed to successful unilateral missions of the 33rd ANA Kandak in Ghayn valley recently.

Closing his command chapter, Maurin paused to remember the memory of the 75 French Soldiers who gave their lives in Afghanistan since the France’s entry into Afghanistan in 2001. “On the white marble of this parade, their names are lying down. They're not anonymous names; they're Soldiers’ names, the names of heroes, names of comrades,” he said.  “We'll carry them away in our heart and our conscience.”

From left to right, French Brig. Gen. Pallasset, Afghan Gen. Mohamed, U.S. Maj. Gen. Allyn, and French Brig. Gen. Maurin review French troops during the Transfer of Authority.  Brig. Gen. Pallasset assumes command for the fifth rotation of TF La Fayette. (Photo courtesy of TF La Fayette PAO)

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Coalition Partnership Improves Logistics Throughout Khowst, Paktya

Story and photos by Army Sgt. Tobey White,
TF Duke

Lt. Col. Dave Brown (right), cmdr of the 201st BSB, 3rd BCT, 1st ID, TF Duke, and a native of Del., talks with his ANA counterpart Col. Sami (center), cmdr. of the Combat Service Support, at COP Wilderness, Oct. 18. The 2 met with the 203rd Corps, to discuss logistic requirements in preparation for winter ops. 

PAKTYA PROVINCE -- It’s never easy keeping soldiers equipped and ready for battle, but the growing logistical partnership between the ANA and CF make the process of outfitting soldiers easier and more efficient. For 10 months, the 201st BSB, have partnered with the Afghan CSS, to provide logistical support to Afghan troops throughout Paktya and Khowst provs.

“We’ve really moved beyond partnership to more of a mentorship,” said Lt. Col. Dave Brown.  “It’s nice to see the Afghans do for themselves,” he added.  Brown appointed Capt. Roger Snead, the 201st BSB’s Combined Action officer- in-charge, and a native of Ala., to work hand-in-hand with the Kandak to help them develop a self sufficient, efficient logistical op.

Snead volunteered for the job, because he saw a way to make a significant difference in the war effort. “I saw this as an opportunity to lead the way for the ANA to be self sufficient, which would in turn lead us to withdrawing,” Snead said. Sneed and his 8-man team meet regularly with the ANA, help them conduct training, and supervise their ops.

For the first time, the Afghan soldiers conducted sling load training, which consists of hooking supplies underneath a helicopter, for the purpose of airlifting them to a specific destination.  At the end of the course the newly-trained soldiers successfully supported ANA missions during Op Maiwan III, a large-scale joint op conducted in May.

“There were a limited number of accessible roads during Maiwan III, so our students hooked supplies up to a CH-47 helicopter, and helped support the ANA troops in the field,” Snead said.  They also taught classes in how to requisition equipment from the Ministry of Defense, driving, first aid, preventative medicine, and radio ops.

"The ANA take care of their own missions," Brown explained. They perform their own pre-combat inspections, brief their own missions, and roll out with no coalition support.

“There have been a lot of changes,” said ANA Col. Sami, 5th Kandak Cmdr. “They’ve really helped. We now have trained drivers and Soldiers who write well.”

"Though a lot of progress has been made, there remain several challenges that still need to be conquered," Brown said. “The key to ANA success is logistics and sustainment,” Brown added. “The next step is to link the national logistics support down to tactical logistics support, to ensure soldiers have what they need to conduct ops.”

Lt. Col. Dave Brown (second from right) eats lunch with his ANA counterpart Col. Abdul Sami, at COP Wilderness.

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Blackanthem Military News

Commanders Visit Panjwa'i

Story and photo by Maj. David Mattox

ANA Soldiers with the 205th, stand in formation as Maj. Gen. Hamid, cmdr. of the 205th, and Brig. Gen. Habibi, cmdr. of the 1/205th, arrive at FOB Zangabad in Panjwa'i, one of the most contested areas in southern Kandahar prov. Oct. 19.  (U.S. Army photo by 2nd. Lt. Nargis Kabiri, ISAF Regional Command-South)

FOB Masum Ghar -- Maj. Gen. Hamid, along with Maj. Gen. Jim Huggins, the RC-South cmdr., visited tactical positions, and Soldiers from both the 1st Kandak, 205th ANA Corps and the U.S. Army's 3rd Bn, 21st Inf Regt, who've been working side by side to eradicate insurgent forces, who've maintained a stronghold in the Panjwa'i district up until 2 months ago.

The cmdrs' visit to Panjwa'i comes just a few weeks after the 82nd AD took over responsibility for ISAF ops in Kandahar.  Both cmdrs. stopped to recognize Afghan and U.S. soldiers who have almost completely pushed the insurgent forces out of the district, after months of heavy fighting.

Hamid and Huggins also took the opportunity to meet with the head GoA in Panjwa'i, Hajji Agha, the Panjwa'i district gov., at the Panjwa'i District Center.

Though there remains a small contingent of insurgent fighters in the Panjwa'i area, ANSF and ISAF can begin focusing on improving the quality of life for local residents, as ISAF prepares to transition security to ANSF. "We have security almost everywhere, and the conditions are set for reconstruction," said Hamid in a meeting with district leaders and military cmdrs., from both the ANSF and ISAF.

Maj. Gen. Jim Huggins, cmdr. of the 82nd AD, and the ISAF' Regional Command-South, arrives at COP Lion with Afghan Maj. Gen. Hamid, cmdr. of the 205th ANA Corps, Oct. 19. The command team was met by ankle-deep dust. 

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ISAF Joint Command Operational Update, Oct. 24, 2011

ISAF Joint Command

South

KANDAHAR PROVINCE -- In Registan district, a combined Afghan and coalition patrol detained numerous suspected insurgents, and seized a narcotics cache during an op, Oct. 23. The cache contained 1,47-lbs of wet opium and 198-lbs.  of dry opium. 

URUZGAN PROVINCE -- In Tarin Kot district, a combined Afghan and coalition patrol detained several insurgents during an op to disrupt a lethal aid and narcotics network, yesterday. 

HELMAND PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition patrol killed 2 insurgents and detained one suspected insurgent, during an op in Nahr-e Saraj district, Oct. 23. One of the insurgents killed is a leader responsible for directing attacks against ANSF and CF. The op also seized a grenade, and a quantity of small arms.

----- CF conducted a precision airstrike against an insurgent compound in Sangin district, yesterday. The targeted compound was used by insurgents to conduct small arms fire attacks, and construct IEDs for use against Afhgan and CF. In addition, insurgents placed several bombs around the facility presenting a significant threat to coalition and Afghan forces, as well as, the civilian population. The airstrike successfully destroyed the IED-making facility without damaging any nearby structures or fields, and no civilians were harmed during the op.

----- In Musa Qal’ah district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor killed one insurgent and detained 2 suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban leader, yesterday. The leader negotiates with narcotic suppliers to provide finances for insurgent ops. 

NIMROZ PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition patrol detained 2 suspected insurgents, during an op to disrupt insurgent movements in Khash Rod district, Oct. 22. The patrol also seized an IED.

East

KABUL PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition patrol detained 2 insurgents, including a suspected insurgent leader in Kabul district, yesterday. The leader is responsible for supplying lethal aid used in attacks against ANSF and CF. 

GHAZNI PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition patrol seized a small weapons cache, during an op to disrupt an insurgent network in Ab Band district, Oct. 23. The op seized one 107 mm rocket, 37 75 mm rounds, and one homemade grenade. 

PAKTIYA PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Haqqani network leader in Gardez district, yesterday. The network leader constructs and stores explosives and weapons, and leads insurgents in roadside bomb attacks throughout the Zurmat and Gardez districts. The SecFor confiscated explosives and multiple weapons including grenades, assault rifles, bayonets, ammo, and ammo pouches.

----- In Dzadran district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor killed multiple insurgents, during a precision airstrike. The target of the op was a group of heavily armed network fighters, who operate in Dzadran and Shwak districts. 

NANGARHAR PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained a suspected insurgent, during an op in search of a Taliban facilitator in Khugyani district, yesterday. The facilitator provides weapons, ammo and roadside bombs to insurgents. 

WARDAK PROVINCE -- In Maidan Shahr district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban leader, yesterday. The leader coordinates ambush attacks against Afghan govt officials.

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IRAQI STORY:

DVIDS

U.S. forces Complete COB Marez Transition, Legacy

Story by Spc. Brandon Bednarek

COB MAREZ -- After sustaining a presence in Mosul for nearly a decade, U.S. troops officially handed over their long-used military installation to Iraqi military officials, Oct. 11, at what was formerly known as COB Marez. Armed with a stack of index cards, Chris Galon, the deputy garrison cmdr., has spent the last year inventorying and transitioning each structure at Marez in preparation for the final transfer. "I came here to do base closure," said Galon. "That was my mission."

"Major structures included in the transfer were a combined coordination center, wastewater plant, 2 fire stations, the Ghuzlani Warrior Training Center, and the Diamondback airfield," said Galon.  U.S. forces also left generators, non-tactical vehicles, and a/c housing units," she said.

"Since arriving in August, soldiers with 2nd Bn, 29th FAR, 4th AAB, 1st AR Div, have worked closely with Galon to detail the base, and remove any materials or documents that couldn't be turned over to the Iraqis," said Lt. Col. Thomas Bolen, the bn cmdr.

"When we first showed up to Marez in Aug., we looked around, and everyone wondered how we were going to close this place," Bolen explained. "With 5 plts. working industriously, the bn. was able to complete its mission in less than 3 months," he said. "By leaving behind a functional, "move-in ready" installation with running water, electricity, furniture and basic force protection measures, Iraqi forces won’t have to start from scratch," he said. "I think it's a positive impression that we just didn't walk off the COB," said Bolen, who is on his 3rd deployment to Iraq.

"The Iraqis worked with the base closure team, to ensure inventory items were reviewed and visually accounted for," said Galon.  "With the transfer of Marez completed, Iraq’s SecFor will now have to determine the most effective way to use the facilities," said Galon.

"Iraqis are very adaptable, and they'll do a good job at figuring out how to utilize buildings and structures for their own needs," said Lt. Col. Michael Cohen, sqdn surgeon for 2nd Sqdn.  In 2004, Cohen deployed with the 67th Combat Support Hospital to Diamondback, the airfield attached to Marez, alongside other deployed support elements. In Aug., he returned with the cavalry sqdn. to help support the OND mission.

Following his 2nd tour, Cohen said that he noticed several upgrades to security and protection at Marez. "It's reassuring to see all of those T-barriers, and metal on top of the dining facilities and gyms," he said. Cohen also noted a drastic difference in the level of hostility directed against the base and U.S. forces.

During his 1st deployment, "Marez and Diamondback were hotbeds for mortar attacks, ambushes and suicide bombers," Cohen said. "Now, explosions and violence seem to be a rare occurrence," he admitted. 

"It's a visible sign that they're taking over their security," said Bolen.  "Ever since U.S. forces entered Iraq in 2003, people have been asking what victory will look like," he said. "We've come in and made a few changes, worked with the Iraqis for a number of years now, and now we're handing their country back to them," said Bolen. "If you ask me, victory looks like the Iraqi people in charge of their country and their facilities, and really, their future.”

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Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/10-24-11

Dear Interested Reader,

TF Duke Operation Nike IV weakens Haqqanis.  Senior Army officials visit FOB Gardez.  Sgt. Maj. of the Army visits FOB Sharana.  Afghan and U.S. forces train together to defeat IEDs.  ISAF Joint Command operational update, Oct. 22, 2011.

Iraq:  4th ID completes historic Iraq mission, furls Ivy colors at COB Speicher.

Joanna

___________________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

RC-East, Bagram Media Center

TF Duke Operation Nike IV Weakens Haqqanis in Musa Khel

Written by Army Maj. Travis Dettmer, TF Duke 

KHOWST PROVINCE – Afghan and CF patrol in the mountains of Musa Khel, during Op Nike IV. The op was part of a larger brigade op known as Duke Blitz, that cleared suspected insurgent support zones, uncovered weapons caches, and denied insurgents sanctuaries. Calling it one of the greatest successes to date, Afghan and CF completed a combined op, Oct. 18, along the border of Khowst and Paktya provs. (Photo by Army 2nd Lt. James Hodges)

FOB SALERNO –  “We yielded significant finds which will reduce the insurgent network’s ability to conduct attacks against Afghan and ISAF forces, and to further destabilize Khowst prov.,” said Maj. Ed Hollis, of Calif., the ops officer from 1st Bn, 26th Inf Regt, TF Duke. “We reduced their supplies of ammo, explosives, bomb-making material, IEDs, various medical and logistical supplies.”

“The ANA continues to drastically improve and take the lead during ops,”  said N.C. native, 1st Lt. Steve Naser, EO and acting cmdr. for Co. B, 1st Bn.  Another cache revealed that criminals also exist amongst the insurgents.  Amid a stock of hand grenades, AK-47s, shotguns and a machine gun, the Afghan and US Soldiers uncovered 77 bags of hashish and 15,000 Pakistani Rupees.

Capt. Josh Wiles, from Fla., cmdr. of Co. D, 1st Bn., emphasized the fact that ANSF had rarely been to Musa Khel until recently. “The ANA put a great foot forward in an area that has been controlled by insurgents,” said Wiles.  “The locals were very receptive to a permanent ANSF presence in the area,” he said.  Hollis agreed. “This op showed that Afghan forces can extend the reach of their govt into the most remote, mountainous areas of Afghanistan, to provide security for the populace," Hollis said. 

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Senior Army Officials Visit FOB Gardez

Photos by AF Senior Airman Wesley Farnsworth, 
PRT Paktya 

PAKTYA PROVINCE - Command Sgt. Maj. Richard Burch, Command Sgt. Maj. of the Army N.G., addresses Soldiers during an enlisted call at FOB Goode, Oct. 18.  During the discussion, Burch addressed hot topics such as the new Army physical fitness standards, and answered questions from the enlisted members. 

Sgt. Maj. of the Army Raymond Chandler III, addresses Soldiers, answered questions from enlisted members, and spoke on various topics concerning active duty Army Soldiers.

Soldiers listen as Sgt. Maj. Chandler III and Command Sgt. Maj. Richard Burch, talk about various topics, and fielded questions from the enlisted Soldiers. 

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Sergeant Major of the Army visits Sharana

Photos by Army Staff Sgt. Luke Graziani

PAKTIKA PROVINCE – Afghan Command Sgt. Maj. Shah Wali of the 5th Combat Service Support Kandak, greets Sgt. Maj. of the Army Raymond Chandler III, Oct. 17, at FOB Sharana.  First Sgt. Angel Baez (center) from Co A, 172nd Support Bn, 172nd Inf Bde, TF Blackhawk, participated in the meet-and-greet with Chandler. 

From left, Lt. Col. Brad Eungard and Maj. Rodney Smith, of the 172nd Support Bn, with Afghan Command Sgt. Maj. Shah Wali, wait to meet Sgt. Maj. Chandler III.  A member of the 5th CSSK and 2 interpreters were also in attendance. 

Sgt. Maj. Chandler III talks with Afghan Command Sgt. Maj. Wali, and members of 172nd Support Bn. Chandler took a few moments from his visit of the FOB to speak to key leaders of the support bn and their Afghan counterparts about continuing relations between US and Afghan forces. 

Afghan Command Sgt. Maj. Wali listens to his interpreter translate Sgt. Maj. Chandler's talk.  Chandler spoke on topics such as uniforms, Soldier development, and the future of the Army.

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Blackanthem Military News

Afghan and U.S. Forces Train Together to Defeat IEDs

By Mass Communication Specialist First Class Farrukh Daniel

Soldiers from 3rd Plt, 73rd Engr Co, 1st Stryker BCT, 25th ID "Arctic Wolves," pose for a picture with their ANA counterparts of Route Clearance Co, Oct. 15, before going over basic clearing techniques, as well as reacting to contact, and pulling security. The 3rd Plt. Soldiers train with the ANA Soldiers regularly, as part of their mission out of FOB Lindsey, in southern Afghanistan. (Army photo by Staff Sgt. Lindsey Kibler, ISAF Joint Command Public Affairs)

CAMP HERO -- Soldiers from 3rd Plt., regularly train together with their Afghan counterparts to combat and neutralize the threat of IEDs throughout Southern Afghanistan.  Staff Sgt. Spencer Waters, the plt. sgt. for 3rd Plt., talked about the joint training. "We train on our tactics, techniques and procedures. They pick up what we're doing very quickly, but they do some things differently," Waters added. "They've been doing this for as long as we have, so some of the things they do are different, but they work just as well."

Afghan Army Capt. Ullawaziri, their co. cmdr., discussed the training. "We're partnering to clear the routes, and getting very effective training on medical procedures, and weapons tactics.  We get new Soldiers all the time; at least every month," said Ullawaziri. "The new Soldiers don't know the basics, so we keep training."

The teams work together to ensure that Soldiers know how to deal with various scenarios that occur frequently when clearing routes. Sgt. James Freeman, from Kansas, one of 3rd Plt's team leaders, and an instructor, during the course described some of the details. "We cover how to react to finding an IED when mounted (inside a vehicle), react to finding an IED when dismounted (on foot), react to contact from small arms fire, both mounted and dismounted, and react to indirect fire," said Freeman. "They've a lot of experience doing this, and they're very good at it."

The 73rd Engr. Co, part of the 1st Stryker BCT, 25th ID is based in Fort Wainwright, Alaska.

 

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ISAF Joint Command Operational Update, Oct. 22, 2011

ISAF Joint Command 

South

HELMAND PROVINCE — An ANSF and ISAF patrol killed several insurgents and detained one other insurgent, during an op to disrupt an insurgent network in Kajaki district, yesterday. The op seized 441-lbs (200 kgs) of opium, a quantity of narcotics processing equipment, and 66-lbs (30 kgs) of IED charges. 

KANDAHAR PROVINCE -- During a combined op conducted today by Afghan and CF in Kandahar district, 2 122 mm rockets and 4 mortar rounds were discovered and seized by SecFor. 

East

GHAZNI PROVINCE -- In Deh Yak district, today, a combined Afghan and coalition patrol discovered and seized an ammo cache consisting of 2,400 7.62 mm rounds. 

KHOST PROVINCE -- CF detained 7 individuals in Sabari district, today. They were transferred to the custody of the ANSF for questioning. 

----- Two additional individuals, wanted for questioning, were detained today, one by the ABP and the other by ANSF.

PAKTIKA PROVINCE -- In Yosef Khel district, today, AUP detained 2 suspected insurgents after engaging CF with small-arms fire. 

PARWAN PROVINCE -- CF in Bagram district, today, detained 6 suspected insurgents, after being engaged with small arms fire. 

KUNAR PROVINCE -- A detainee was taken into custody for fleeing the site of a weapons cache in Khas Kunar district, today. The weapons cache consisted of 2 bolt action rifles, more than 120 rounds of assorted ammo, a pistol, binoculars, and 2 tactical vests. 

Ops in RC-East are still ongoing.

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IRAQI STORY:

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4th ID Completes Historic Iraq Mission, Furls Ivy Colors

Story by Spc. Brandon Bednarek

COB SPEICHER -- In a ceremony that marked a historic moment in the Iraq campaign, the 4th ID furled and cased their division colors before a crowd of senior U.S. and Iraqi officers, distinguished guests, and civilian news media, Oct. 20. 
Div. leaders Maj. Gen. David Perkins and Command Sgt. Maj. Daniel Dailey cased the Ivy Division’s colors Oct. 19, signifying the end of its 13-month mission to Iraq in support of OND.

The 4th ID was activated November 17, 1917 at Camp Greene, N.C., and has been answering America’s call for freedom for nearly 100 years. The Ivy Div. took part in World War I, stormed the beaches of Normandy in World War II, patrolled highlands and villages during the Vietnam War, and played a multi-faceted role during the war in Iraq.

Last September, the Colorado-based unit made its 4th deployment to Iraq and assumed control of the USD-North effort from the 3rd ID.  "As the sole comm. gen. in northern Iraq, Perkins and the Iron Horse TF were charged with maintaining the momentum of Iraq’s SecFor, and setting conditions for the smooth transition to an embassy-led mission," said Gen. Lloyd Austin III, cmdr. of USF-Iraq. “The Iron Horse Div., under the able leadership of Maj. Gen. Dave Perkins, has certainly delivered on both of these priorities,” he said.

"With 7 provs., and 3 bordering countries, northern Iraq is a critical region that greatly impacts the security in other parts of the country," said Austin. By advising and training Iraqi security elements on intel collection, medical training, and counter-terrorism tactics, the TF continued to strengthen the enduring bilateral partnership between the 2 nations.

“Thanks to the leadership and team building efforts of Maj. Gen. Dave Perkins and USD-North, 22 combined checkpoints transitioned to bilateral control,” said Austin. “ISF and Peshmerga forces having been working together to provide security for the Iraqi people, in the absence of a direct U.S. presence,” he continued. As a result, Iraq’s SecFor have significantly grown in areas of effectiveness and capability, establishing a foundation for successful security missions, and increased stability for the country’s citizens.

The TF also continued America’s ongoing commitment to the people of Iraq, by transitioning more than 30 U.S. military installations, and reposturing ground forces in preparation for a Dec. 31 departure. “The 4th ID’s accomplishments in strengthening the ISF and improving the security situation, are indeed remarkable,” said Austin. “They're even more remarkable, when you consider that they did it all while coordinating the division’s efforts to conduct transitions and reposture forces.”

"Following the conclusion of a military presence in Iraq, U.S. embassies and consulates will work to expand and deepen their ties with Iraq. The Office of Security Cooperation-Iraq will also play a vital role, as it continues to strengthen the military-to-military relationship after the year’s end," said Austin.

Perkins, a 31-year veteran, attributed the successes of the USD-North mission to TF soldiers, who produced the biggest impact on Iraq. "Their selfless service, sacrifices and discipline were a manifestation of the American people, and exemplified what a free and democratic nation can do," he said.

"Through their actions and dedication, the 4th ID created an opportunity for continued progress in northern Iraq," explained Austin, who was honored to serve alongside the Ivy Div. “You've performed magnificently, and your efforts will have a positive impact on this area for many, many years to come.”

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Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/10-23-11

Dear Interested Reader,

PRT Nangarhar walks among locals.  Oklahoma ties bring motivation to Thunderbird Soldiers.  Army's Senior NCO visits TF Duke.  Command Sgt. Maj. of the Army N.G. visits Bagram Airfield.  ISAF Joint Command operational update, Oct. 21, 2011.

Iraq:  Wranglers host Best Warrior Competition at COB Adder.

Joanna

______________________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

RC-East, Bagram Media Center

PRT Nangarhar Walks Among Locals 

Story and photos  by 1st Lt. Jeff Nagan, PRT Nangarhar 

Staff Sgt. Robert Ross, civil affairs military ops center NCO-in-charge, Nangarhar PRT, takes notes during an interview with a local cloth vendor, as part of a market assessment of Jalalabad, Oct. 10. Ross was a member of one of 3 civil affairs teams asking questions throughout the market. Ross is from Wisc.

NANGARHAR PROVINCE – For the first time during this deployment, members of the Nangarhar PRT walked the streets of Jalalabad, asking local shop owners about the economy, and their opinions on their govt. Although previous PRTs in Nangarhar have done market assessments, the current team has focused largely on provincial level governance and development. "However, after more than 3 months here, it was time to see how things were shaping up on the ground," said Capt. James Hanson, PRT civil affairs team lead.

“We gained a snap shot of the local economy, and what's really going on in the market place on a daily basis,” said Hanson, a native of Mich. “We also gained an understanding of the local businesses, and how the govt is helping or not helping them.”

"The PRT relies primarily on key leaders for info about what is happening in the community, but getting a true sense of what's important or impacts the local citizens of Jalalabad requires talking with everyday people," said Sgt. Kristin Goehler. “We gained real atmospherics by interacting directly with locals, rather than relying on info second-hand,” said Goehler, a Wisc. native. “We also portrayed a positive image of CF by direct interactions with the locals.”

The market patrol was comprised of several small teams of PRT civil affairs Soldiers, broken into 3 smaller, 2-person teams along with a PRT SecFor to ensure the safety of the civil affairs teams as they performed their mission.“This was a group effort with civil affairs, SecFor, and HQ elements to pull this all off,” said Hanson, who is deployed from the 432nd CAB, an Army N.G. unit out of Green Bay. “There are many moving parts to this type of mission, and everyone has to do their part to conduct this type of mission successfully.”

"As the 2-hour mission progressed, the market the team walked through became increasingly more congested with shoppers," added Hanson.  Likewise, the team attracted a lot of attention from children and others interested in what the service members were doing.

“We had a good plan and were able to move the way we wanted to, despite how crowded the market was,” said Goehler, who is from the same unit as Hanson.  “It's a testament of how good the different elements worked together. With more people, the team got a better feel for the economy," said Hanson. Nearly every shop, which included clothing, jewelry and food, had customers.

“A large number of people in the market indicate the area is secure,” said Hanson. “People have faith in the economy, and aren't hording money for a rainy day. This is exactly what we were hoping to find while conducting our assessment.”

"There were also a large number of local women shopping," said Goehler, whose small team was designed primarily to engage women. Unlike many other areas, the women were without male escorts, which indicates an added sense of security. “The interaction with the women was positive,” said Goehler. “They felt very safe shopping in that market. It shows when women have the freedom of movement to shop without an escort. One woman we talked to has had her own shop for 10 years, and supports her family with her sales.”

"Although this marked the first market walk for the PRT, plans are already in the works to do another one," said Hanson. The goal is assess various markets throughout the prov., helping not only get a pulse for the important issues and the economy but also to assist in market research for construction supplies, which is another area of PRT efforts.

“I didn't experience any negative feedback, and all the interaction was positive,” said Goehler. “The people were receptive to answering our questions, and everyone was accommodating.”

AF Staff Sgt. Justin Barnhill, from Arizona, tactical communications specialist, Nangarhar PRT, provides additional security as members walk down a densely populated street in Jalalabad. The team was there to perform a market assessment and learn popular opinions of their local leaders. 

Army Capt. James Hanson, civil affairs team leader, takes notes during a brief interview with a Jalalabad shopkeeper, who specializes in dried fruits. Questions focused on the origin of the vendor’s goods, which are primarily grown in Afghanistan, according to the shopkeeper. 

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Oklahoma Ties Bring Motivation to Thunderbird Soldiers

Story and photos by Maj. Lindy White 

Army Maj. Gen. Myles Deering, adjutant general of Okla., presents his 2-star coin while shaking hands with Pfc. Rachelle Dutton of Kan., and member of the HC, 45th BSTB, 45th IBCT, during his visit, Oct. 14. Deering presented her the coin for coming to the aid of victims in a traffic accident in Laghman prov.  Dutton has been a member of the Oklahoma Army N.G. for less than 2 years. She's a student at Oklahoma University. 

LAGHMAN PROVINCE – Snow-capped mountains and dry desert lands were sites to see for Maj. Gen. Myles Deering, and Command Sgt. Maj. Steve Jensen, state command sgt. maj. of Okla., during their visit with Soldiers. However, it was the opportunity to visit with Oklahoma Soldiers that highlighted his visit today. 

“The visit was tremendous,” said, Deering. “It was great seeing all the leaders and Soldiers out in the FOBs and the COPs...I had a tremendous time, thanking Soldiers, and assured them that Oklahoma was proud of them and supports them."

Deering and Jensen were able to visit with bn. level and co. level cmdrs. with the 45th IBCT AO, and at the end of their tour, they visited members of the 1st Bn, 279th Inf., who are assigned to a different brigade HQ. “I was surprised he came out to meet with us,” said Spc. Jason Barrow.  Barrow grew up in Sand Springs, and initially started out in the Army Reserves, moved to Fla. and then moved back to Okla., to join the Army N.G.  Barrow was one of 9 Soldiers with 279th Inf., awarded the Combat Infantry Badge by Deering.

“I thought it was great he could be here for this,” Barrow said. “This is cool that he wanted to be a part, and nice that he and sgt. maj. cares enough about us to come and visit.”  Several Soldiers also received the 2-star coin.  Giving leadership coins is part of a tradition of leaders to award Soldiers who perform their jobs well, and deserve the personal hand shake where the coin is exchanged.

Maj. Gen. Myles Deering, adjutant general of Okla., awards the Combat Infantry Badge to Spc. Jason Barrow. This is Barrow’s first deployment.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Army’s Senior NCO Visits TF Duke

Story and photos by Army Staff Sgt. Ben Navratil 

Sgt. Maj. of the Army Raymond Chandler III visited the Soldiers of the 3rd BCT, 1st ID, TF Duke, at several bases in Khowst and Paktya Provs., Oct. 18.

KHOWST PROVINCE – During breakfast in the FOB Salerno dining facility, Chandler spoke with Soldiers stationed here about upcoming, Army-wide troop drawdown, and changes in policy. He emphasized that the privilege to serve the Nation will always be offered to those willing to continuously better themselves, and adapt to the needs of the force.

“You have to be willing to do what the Army needs you to do,” he said, adding that selfless service means being committed to the Army, and taking assignments that may not be one’s first choice. Selfless service is one of the 7 Army Values, which Chandler calls the core of what makes a Soldier a Soldier.

He went on to compare the professional Soldier to professionals in the civilian sector. He said Soldiers, like lawyers, clergymen and doctors, all go through rigorous training, and constantly reassess their skills to stay ahead.

“Having the opportunity to break bread with the Sgt. Maj. of the Army was an honor for both my Soldiers and me,” said 1st Sgt. John Pair from N.Y., the First Sgt. of HQ, HC, 3rd BCT. “His taking the time out to visit the troops, and talk about the way forward for our expeditionary Army was very beneficial. He's the right guy to have in our corner.”

Sgt. Maj. of the Army Raymond Chandler III listens to a question posed by a Soldier assigned to the 3rd BCT, at FOB Salerno, Oct. 18.  Chandler held a question-and-answer session in the FOB Salerno dining facility, to hear the issues facing deployed Soldiers, and to address some of their questions regarding major changes going on throughout the Army. 

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RC-East

Command Sgt. Maj. of the Army N.G. Visits Bagram Airfield

Photos by Army Spc. Ken Scar 

 

Command Sgt. Maj. of the Army N.G. Richard Burch shares a laugh with Pfc. Nicholas Degiglio, of the 131st Trans. Co., after presenting him with a coin, Oct. 18.  Burch was on a tour of RC-East with Sgt. Maj. of the Army Raymond Chandler III.

Command Sgt. Maj. Burch walks with Sgt. Maj. Thomas Dow, the Senior Enlisted Advisor for N.G. Affairs-Afghanistan, to a town hall meeting with N.G. Soldiers. 

N.G. Soldiers listen to Command Sgt. Maj. Burch. 

Command Sgt. Maj. Burch speaks to a room full of N.G. Soldiers. 

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DVIDS

ISAF Joint Command Operational Update, Oct. 21, 2011

ISAF Joint Command

South

HELMAND PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor conducted an op in search of a Taliban leader in Musa Qal’ah district. The leader coordinates shipments of explosives and weapons in support of insurgent ops.
Multiple suspected insurgents were detained during the op.

East

ZABUL PROVINCE — In Tarnek wa Jaldak district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor conducted a precision air strike, killing numerous insurgents. Following the strike, the SecFor recovered a significant amount of weapons, including multiple AK-47 assault rifles, several RPGs, an 82 mm recoilless rifle, 2 PKM machine guns with 400 rounds of ammo, multiple grenades and ammo pouches. Two suspected insurgents were also detained.

KHOST -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor captured a Haqqani network facilitator, during a search op in Sabari district. The facilitator planned and coordinated attacks against Afghan forces, as well as distributing weapons and roadside bombs throughout Sabari district. Two additional suspected insurgents were detained.

----- Also in Sabari district, during a security op a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor captured a Haqqani network facilitator. The facilitator distributed weapons, supplies and equipment to other senior insurgent leaders, as well as planned attacks against Afghan forces in the region. One additional suspected insurgent was detained. 

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IRAQI STORY:

DVIDS

Wranglers Host Best Warrior Competition

Story and photos by Spc. Sean Mcguire

Sgt. Kellyn Furgiuele of the 372nd Inland Cargo Trans. Co., 275th CSSB, 4th Sust Bde, 310th ESC, and Pfc. Michael Doumas of 2nd Sqdn, 183rd Cav Regt, 4th Sust. Bde., receive applause, Oct. 12, after winning in their respective groups for the 310th ESC’s Grey Ghost Stakes Best Warrior and NCO competition, at COB Adder.

COB ADDER -- It started in the early morning hours. Soldiers cloaked in the pitch black performed last-minute mental evaluations to prepare themselves for their undertaking; the fall air is doing its part to provide a cool atmosphere, a change from the usual suffocating heat.

Despite being in the midst of OND’s final months, these few men and women were preparing to compete against one another in a Best Warrior and NCO competition. The 4th Sust Bde, hailing from Fort Hood, Texas, hosted the competition.  310th ESC subordinate units from across the country made their way to compete in the competition, and to lend a hand. 

The 21 Soldiers, divided between NCOs and junior-enlisted Soldiers, would first exercise their grit by combining search and detaining skills with modern Army combatives. Immediately after that, a physical fitness test; minutes later, a 5-mile foot march.

The demands didn't stop there. It continued into situational training exercise lanes, featuring stations on land navigation, radio communications, first aid, and even essay writing. Soldiers would then shuffle over to qualify on their assigned weapon. Not wasting any time, they were soon, one-by-one standing before a board to test their Army knowledge.

The end seemed to be a day that would never come. “This event was actually more mentally demanding than it was physically for me,” said Sgt. Jose Villanueva, an ammo NCO for the 4th Sust. Bde. and a Texas, native who would place 3rd in the competition. 

After hours spent physically and mentally exerting themselves, the soldiers, accompanied by their sponsors and peers, gathered for a final ceremony. Command Sgt. Maj. Debbie Schroder, the 310th ESC senior-enlisted leader, gave out coins to those who helped support the day’s event, and then to those who competed. 

Then the quiet calm before the storm took over. Sgt. Kellyn Furgiuele took the crown for the NCOs; Pfc. Michael Doumas emerged the victor from the junior-enlisted ranks. 

For Command Sgt. Maj. Erik Frey, the senior-enlisted leader for the 4th Sust. Bde., everyone was a winner. “This competition covered many areas that soldiers should be proficient in:  from the APFT, warrior tasks and battle drills, to their writing ability,” Frey said. “All 21 competitors were well prepared, and displayed a high level of warrior ethos and motivation.”

“All soldiers must always hone their craft of being a Soldier, and these competitions are designed to showcase all the hard work and preparation a Soldier does on a daily basis,” Frey said.

Sgt. Laouali Yacouba, a supply NCO for HHC, 310th ESC, qualifies with his M4A1 assault rifle.

Sgt. Gideon Youn, a soldier with 2nd Sqdn, 183rd Cav Regt, 4th Sust Bde, works a radio during the situational training portion.

Sgt. Kellyn Furgiuele (second from right), steps off at the beginning of the rucksack march. 

Staff Sgt. Marcus Ellerbe, a water treatment specialist with the 127th QM Co, 352nd CSSB, from Joint Base Balad, attempts to subdue a combatant, during search and detaining drills.

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Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/10-22-11

Dear Interested Reader,

Committed to the security, reconstruction and extension of governance.  'Super Shura' to plan next step forward for Khowst, Paktya.  1st Cav. Gen. drops in on ground troops.  Blackhawks storm into, out of Waza Khwa.  ISAF Joint Command operational update, Oct. 20, 2011.

Iraq:  Multitasking Sustainers finalize logistics mission at Habur Gate.

Joanna

______________________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Committed to the Security, Reconstruction and Extension of Governance 

AF photos by Staff Sgt. Ryan Crane, Laghman PRT 

LAGHMAN PROVINCE -- AF Senior Airman Lauren Everett, a medic attached to Laghman PRT, climbs a tree to talk to a child, while on a patrol in Mehtar Lam district, Oct. 14. The PRT traveled to the village of Deh E Ziarat to meet with the village elder and the people to talk about their community. 

AF Lt. Col. Jayson Allen, cmdr. of Laghman PRT, hands out school supplies to a young girl while on a patrol.

AF Lt. Col. Jayson Allen takes time to speak with a local man in a village. Allen explains through an interpreter to take one pill each day to help him with his leg. 

A young boy leans over a wall trying to get the attention of AF Lt. Col. Jayson Allen, as he hands out school supplies to a group of children.

Army Sgt. Maj. Roderick Hodo, Laghman PRT sgt. maj., plays a game of cricket with some Afghan boys. 

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DVIDS

‘Super Shura’ to Plan Next Step Forward for Khowst, Paktya

Army photos by Maj. Travis Dettmer

The participants in a "Super Shura," included govt and military leaders of Khowst and Paktya provs., pose for a photo outside the HQ of 3rd BCT, 1st ID, TF Duke, on FOB Salerno, Oct. 20. The shura was an opportunity for the partnered forces to identify the progress they've made in the last year, and identify the steps forward. 

Govt and military officials, along with leaders from TF Duke, listen to a briefing. The meeting was a chance for leaders to discuss recent security achievements, share info, and plan for the winter fighting season.

Leaders of the govt and ANSF eat lunch with members of TF Duke. The leaders were gathered to attend a "Super Shura" uniting many of the partnered forces in Khowst and Paktya provs., to identify successes against the insurgency, and to identify the next steps forward in the fight.

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DVIDS

1st Cav. General Drops in on Ground Troops

Photos by Spc. Ken Scar

Sgt. Leighmarie Lawless of Pa., hands a coin from 1st Cav Div Deputy Comm. Gen. – Maneuver Brig. Gen. Gary Volesky, to a child in a village in the Deh Yak district, Oct. 19.

Brig. Gen. Gary Volesky, (second from right), and members of his personal security detail run to their UH-60 Black Hawk. Volesky and his team were conducting a surprise battlefield circulation to several ISAF positions south of Kabul, in the Deh Yak and Mata Khan districts, to see how Op Shamshir was progressing.

A member of the ANA and a member of the local AUP, Deh Yak District, provide over watch during Op Shamshir with U.S. forces.

Army Capt. Scott Hall, from Fla., launches himself off of a UH-60 Black Hawk onto the valley floor of the Deh Yak District. Hall is the personal asst. to Brig. Gen. Gary Volesky. 

Brig. Gen. Volesky shares a laugh with Spc. Gabriel Ramirez of Calif.  

Maj. Abdul Gafar, who is with the ANA, shakes hands with Brig. Gen. Volesky, while a member of the AUP looks on.  The ANA, AUP and U.S. soldiers were in the middle of Op Shamshir in the Mata Khan District, south of Kabul.

Brig. Gen. Gary Volesky (center) discusses strategy for Op Shamshir with U.S. soldiers, ANA, and members of the local AUP in the Mata Khan district.

A member of the AUP poses with his pet monkey, while on guard duty.

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Blackhawks Storm Into, Out of Waza Khwa

Photos by Staff Sgt. Luke Graziani 

PAKTIKA PROVINCE – Army Spc. Jordan Tulkki, a cannon crewmember, an Ariz., native assigned to Btry C, 1st Bn, 77th FA, 172nd Inf Bde, TF Blackhawk, slides a hook into place on top of a shipping container, Oct. 8 at COP Waza Khwa. The container was getting ready to be shipped to another location, in support of Op Blackstorm. The op is removing all U.S. military-owned property from COP Waza Khwa, prior to the COP being handed over to Afghan forces' control. 

A group of Afghan locals work diligently to recycle military shipping barrels. Afghan forces are recycling more than 6,000 barrels that were stored on the COP, before taking responsibility. The money earned from recycling the barrels is slated to be used to help the local community and district center. 

The remainder of the military shipping barrels scheduled to be recycled. The op was designed to transfer the COP of U.S. military owned property, and hand the COP over to Afghan forces. Prior to taking responsibility, however, the Afghans requested that the barrels be recycled. 

A vehicle, part of a route clearance package (RCP), enters COP Waza Khwa, during Op Blackstorm. An RCP cleared the route ahead of a long convoy of vehicles, bringing flatbed trucks and other large equipment-moving vehicles. 

First Sgt. Anthony Johnson, 1st Sgt. of Btry C, uses a flashlight to check the status of night-time fueling procedures, after a convoy of equipment-moving vehicles arrived, Oct. 10. The vehicles were quickly fueled up after driving many hours in support of Op Blackstorm. 

Army Sgt. Nathanael Bordash, a native of Mich., assigned to Co A, 172nd Support Bn, 172nd Inf Bde, TF Blackhawk, performs defueling procedures, Oct. 10. Bordash, assisted by Waza Khwa personnel, supported the op by maintaining a fully operational fuel point. This was the first and last time Waza Khwa personnel performed defueling procedures from a tanker truck. 

Army Staff Sgt. Cory Simpson, a native of Wisc., assigned to the Support Ops Office, 172nd Support Bn, wrestles with one of the lift hooks of a crane, Oct. 10.  Simpson attached the hooks to the tops of shipping containers, during Op Blackstorm. 

Army Sgt. Francisco Arce, a native of Puerto Rico and Staff Sgt. Bryan Godette, a native of N.C., both assigned to Co A, discuss the plan for loading shipping containers onto trucks. 

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ISAF Joint Command

ISAF Joint Command Operational Update, Oct. 20, 2011

South

KANDAHAR PROVINCE -- In Kandahar district, a combined Afghan and coalition patrol discovered a damaged coalition vehicle and storage container, in a civilian compound, Oct. 19. Upon further investigation, the SecFor discovered a weapons cache as well. The cache consisted of 3 AK-47s, a shotgun, a hand grenade, 15 AK-47 mags, and 450 7.62 mm rounds. 

HELMAND PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor patrol detained an insurgent leader, during an op in Lashkar Gah district, in an ongoing op throughout the week. The leader commands several insurgents, and is responsible for planning attacks against Afghan and CF. 

ZABUL PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition patrol discovered a large store of explosives, today. The patrol was conducting a clearing op in the village of Arel, when they came upon the cache near an IED. The cache contained 2 containers with 88-lbs (40 kgs) of explosive material, 26-lbs (12 kgs) of ammonium nitrate, and bomb making materials. 

East

LOGAR PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained an insurgent leader in Khoshi district, in an op that was ongoing throughout the week. The leader is a known insurgent cmdr., and facilitator responsible for attacks against Afghan and CF. 

----- In Charkh district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained a suspected insurgent, during an op in search of a Taliban leader. The leader conducts attacks against CF in the region.

KHOST PROVINCE -- In Qalandar district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor patrol discovered a weapons cache, today. The cache consisted of 8 82 mm recoilless rifle rounds, 9 RPGs, 3 landmines, and 250 12.7 mm rounds. 

GHAZNI PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during a security op in search of a Taliban leader in Wali Muhammad Shahid Khugyani district. The leader coordinates with fellow insurgent leaders to plan attacks in the area.

----- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained 2 suspected insurgents, and discovered an explosives cache, during an op in Ghazni district, yesterday. The cache consisted of 880-lbs (400 kgs) of homemade explosives.  

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IRAQI STORY:

DVIDS

Multitasking Sustainers Finalize Logistics Mission at Habur Gate

Story by Sgt. Allyson Parla 

HABUR GATE — With tears streaming down their cheeks, a group of Kurdish men waved goodbye to their friends, a small contingency of U.S. soldiers, who have finally completed their mission at Habur Gate.

Fourteen soldiers from the 77th Sust Bde, 310th ESC finalized a logistics mission, Sept. 30, at Habur Gate, turning over the Ibrahim Khalil Border Complex to the GoI. The bulk of the Soldiers’ success rested on their ability to multitask, both teaching and performing their professional and personal skills to one another, and to the local Kurdish workers.

Supplies, equipment and food are transported through Turkey, and into Iraq daily to sustain both civilian and military personnel in Iraq. Local nationals help facilitate this daily, million-dollar op. LTF-77th soldiers ensured that Kurdish workers were properly trained and able to perform their tasks, sometimes spending as much as 10 hours a day to ensure their efficiency.

2nd Lt. Gerard Sullivan, the officer-in-charge of Logistical TF 77th, STB, 77th Sust. Bde., said that many of the local nationals had only gone as far as the 3rd grade, and that many were illiterate. “Those were the guys we worked with every day,” said Sullivan, who previously worked as a teacher in Honduras for 2 years. 

Sullivan said that perhaps the most memorable training was the unforeseen training the soldiers taught their Kurdish counterparts. “They've a heart as big as gold, but a lot of them are just not experienced,” said Sullivan about the more than 120 Kurdish contractors working with them at the complex. 

"Hiring family members, regardless of their training or experience, is a common practice for people in this area," Sullivan said. “It’s like, ‘this guy is my brother, so he’s the new a/c guy,’ or ‘this guy is my cousin, and he’s the new reception desk guy,’” he said. 

“They were working for us, but didn’t know how to do their job,” said Master Sgt. Ricky Pittman, the NCO-in-charge of LTF-77th, and a native of La.  Despite the lack of training the Kurdish workers had, they made the job easier and were eager to learn, said Spc. Ray Hughes, the NCO-in-charge of communications for LTF-77th, and a native of N.J.

Although nearly all of the 77th Sust. Bde. soldiers here were Combat Lifesaver certified, the Kurdish had little medical training. “I ran a small, 3-day class with the Kurdish army, teaching them basic medical skills to stop bleeding and open up airways,” said Spc. Jonathan Frick, the NCO-in-charge of the aid station at Habur Gate for the 77th Sust. Bde., and a native of N.J.

Frick added, "there was even a Kurdish army medic in attendance. He said that he was motivated to train the locals, because he knew that these medical skills might one day save a life.

"With the U.S. mission coming to a close, the Ibrahim Khalil Border Complex will be used by the Kurdish customs administration, and will also be a symbol of the cooperation between the U.S. Army and Kurdish people," said Khorshid Yousif, a liaison officer between the complex and the U.S. forces.

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Posted via email from troopscoop's posterous

Daily Afghan-Iraq Update/10-21-11

Dear Interested Reader,

Successes in Khowst, Paktiya impact insurgent capabilities.  Insurgent failures mark start of winter ops.  USACE help to inspect Ashterlee construction.  Watershed revival to come to Sayed Abad.  ISAF Joint Command operational update, Oct. 19, 2011.

Iraq:  Last Marine team leaves Iraq, makes history.

Joanna

_______________________________

AFGHANISTAN STORIES:

RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Successes in Khowst, Paktiya Impact Insurgent Capabilities 

Written by CJTF-1 PAO 

PAKTYA PROVINCE – Capt. Tim Black (left), an intel officer from Ohio, helps provide security, Oct. 17 while Afghan and Coaltion SecFor leaders speak with village elders from the Sahak Triangle area of Zormat district. Ongoing joint Afghan and CF ops conducted across Khowst and Paktya provs. this past week have significantly impacted insurgent capability, as the winter period begins to set in.  (Photos by Army Sgt. Joseph Watson)

FOB SALERNO – Since Oct. 13, at least 18 insurgent fighters have been killed, with no reported Afghan or Coalition casualties. Coalition officials also report the capture of 65 enemy fighters, 5 of these believed to be insurgent leaders.  During this time, combined forces have uncovered 9 weapons caches; one cache alone containing 22 RPGs and 9 IEDs.  

Insurgent attempts to fight back have failed.  The most notable failure was Sunday’s attempted car bombing and suicide bomber attack near the Municipality in Gardez City, Paktya prov. Afghan police, who were warned of Sunday’s failed attack through recent intel reports, were in a state of high alert.  An observant Afghan policeman noticed the suspicious vehicle, and signaled for the driver to stop. The driver then detonated his car bomb, which was followed by the attempted suicide attacks.  Afghan police killed the 3 suicide bombers before they could detonate their vests, potentially killing dozens of innocent civilians.  No injuries were reported from the car blast.

The cmdr. for all CF in Paktya and Khowst, Col. Chris Toner of the 3rd BCT, 1st ID, TF Duke, commended the police for their efforts to protect the people of Gardez. “These brave police heroes caused the insurgents to fail in yet another attempt to kill civilians and destabilize the area,” said the Kansas native.

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Blackanthem Military News

Insurgent Failures Mark Start of Winter Operations

By RC-East PAO

ANSF and members of the Coalition Provincial Development Stabilization Team (CPDST) assess the aftermath of a suicide attack, Oct.15, at FOB Lion in Panjshir Prov. (Photo provided by U.S. Army)

BAGRAM AIRFIELD -- Tactical mistakes by insurgents in eastern Afghanistan over the past weeks resulted in at least 3 failed attacks against Afghan and Coalition targets. "This is a direct demonstration of the increasing effectiveness of the ASF in eastern Afghanistan," said Brig. Gen. Gary Volesky, deputy comm. gen., RC-East.  "Frequently, the insurgents are coming up against a more professional and committed Afghan force."

AUP prevented a complex attack against the municipal building in Gardez, Paktiya prov., Oct.16.  Insurgents again attempted to attack using a vehicle bomb and suicide vests.  AUP officers shot and killed all 3 insurgents wearing suicide vests.  The vehicle detonated, martyring one AUP officer and a municipal worker. 

  On Oct. 15, ASF prevented a complex attack against a combined base in the Rukhah district, Panjshir prov.  Five insurgents were killed after they attacked the base with a vehicle bomb and suicide vests.  ASF shot and killed 4 of the attackers, the fifth detonated his vehicle bomb with little effect against the base. Two Afghan civilians were martyred in the vehicle blast, and 2 Afghan security guards were injured.

Afghan and CF killed 17 insurgents after a complex attack near the Nari District, Kunar prov., Oct.14.  Insurgents attacked with small arms and mortars.  There were no reports of Afghan Army, Coalition or civilian casualties.

Coalition aircraft and artillery fire, Oct. 8, killed at least 25 insurgents in the largest coordinated attack against Coalition bases in Paktika prov., since 2009.  Insurgents unsuccessfully used indirect fire from multiple locations in Gormal, Sarobi and Barmal districts against Afghan and Coalition bases. One Coalition member was slightly wounded during the attacks.

"Insurgent failures demonstrate an increase in the capability and capacity of our Afghan partners," Volesky said.

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Blackanthem Military News  

USACE helps to Inspect Ashterlee Construction

By USACE PAO

ANP Lt. Col Khan (carrying bag) enters the ANP compound at Ashterlee. (USACE Photo/Mark Ray)

KANDAHAR AIRFIELD -- U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) personnel teamed up with an ANP rep and an Army mentor to the ANP, to inspect a district police HQ nearing completion in Daykundi prov., Sept. 26.  Lt. Col. Hazer Khan, the facilities officer for the ANP region HQ in Kandahar City, and Maj. David Steele, an Army mentor to the ANP, travelled to the site in Ashterlee with 3 reps of Afghanistan Engr. District South:  Lt. Col. John Carpenter, the J-2; John Clark, the resident engr. for Tarin Kowt and Qalat; and Hans Miller, a construction rep, who has since moved from the Tarin Kowt Resident Office to the Qalat Resident Office. "It's important for me to be able to get out to sites like this," Khan said through an interpreter. "It allows me to see the issues on the ground, so I can help correct them." 

"These visits serve to assure the district police leadership that the enduring Afghan Govt will continue to support the district chief of police, after the temporary ISAF influence is gone," Steele added. "Also, the psychological impact of solid rock mountains amplifying the sound and feeling of Blackhawks flying in, sends an unmistakable message of govt authority to all. 

"A trip to Ashterlee is a 2-day drive from the regional police HQ near Kandahar, during the summer months (fighting season), while completely impassable roads in the winter make face-to-face engagements impossible," Steele continued. "When we meet with district police officers they're extremely happy to meet regional staff whom they otherwise know only by reputation. They quickly burst out with stories about their community. The regional officers steer the conversation toward security concerns. My interpreter always needs a lozenge after the 2-hour rapid-fire exchange." 

While Khan and Steele were meeting with local police officials, Miller and Clark were busy inspecting all aspects of the ongoing project, including a generator, fuel tank and submersible water pumps necessary to complete the work. Miller conducted vigorous discussions with the contractor, underlining contract requirements the contractor had to meet. "It's important for us to get out to these remote sites, because the Afghan contractors perform better when USACE eyes are put on the project," said Clark.

"Ashterlee will see exponential industrial growth in the next few years, and the corresponding, mostly non-local work force will demand tangible security," said Steele. "The walled summit complex, the new district police HQ, is an icon of security and GoA sovereignty."

"When people in the area see facilities like this HQ, they see that security is improving," Khan said. "I've seen great improvements over the last 3 to 4 years. The coalition has helped us a lot."

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RC-East, Bagram Media Center

Watershed Revival to Come to Sayed Abad

Story and photo by Army Sgt. Andrea Merritt 

A watershed in Sra Kala village was selected to undergo rehabilitation this winter, Oct. 15.  Due to deforestation, overgrazing and other factors, 98% of the trees in Afghanistan have disappeared in the last 30 years. Since there aren’t many trees or other types of vegetation, soil is exposed to the elements causing erosion. As a result of the erosion, farmers are unable to cultivate the land and grow crops. 

WARDAK PROVINCE – In the 1970s, Afghanistan, then known as the “Orchard of Central Asia,” was an agricultural goldmine that thrived as a major exporter of dried fruits and nuts.  After decades of war, drought and deforestation, much of the land became unsuitable for farming. The hills in many areas, once lined with rich green vegetation, are now a dry, barren shadow of the country’s former glory.

Through the years, govt, non-govt, and military orgs., have assisted Afghans in restoring the agricultural climate through watershed projects in various regions. A watershed is a landform with highpoints and ridgelines that descend into lower elevations. After rainfalls and snowmelts, the water flows down into soil, groundwater, creeks and streams, to larger rivers, eventually channeling into the sea.

Members of the Global Partnership for Afghanistan (GPFA), the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), and Soldiers from the 2nd Bn, 5th Inf Regt, 3rd Bde, 1st AR Div, TF Bobcat, visited Sra Kala village in the Sayed Abad district, Oct. 11, to assess a watershed selected to undergo restoration this winter. “There's a need for water, and watershed programs can increase the water supply and improve the ecosystem,” said 1st Lt. Christopher Davis, mortar plt. leader and bn. civil affairs officer, 2nd Bn.

Since 2010, the GPFA has launched 17 small water projects in 19 villages in Wardak Prov. In partnership with the GoA, USAID and other agencies, the GPFA water projects have affected more than 15,000 families in the prov. “In 2008, we travelled to different provs. like Wardak and Logar,” said Thomas Bevier, field program officer with USAID. “Throughout many studies we heard the same theme from people who worked on farms, and it all came back to water.”

“The civil affairs cell conducted assessments and found there was an over-demand on natural resources,” Bevier said. “There's a critical water shortage, and we looked to different solutions, one being to re-establish watersheds. In a country where 85% of the population relies on agriculture as their main source of income, restoring the watersheds could help rebuild the economy," Bevier said.

“The great thing about this program is that it’s not temporary. It can create trees, rivers and grasslands,” said Davis, a  Calif. native. “The area could start seeing results in just 5 years. In 10 years, there'll be large trees, more water and more arable land.”

To generate local interest in the watershed program, GPFA members engage local and provincial leaders, as well as farmers, and teach them different ways to increase farm productivity. Jawid Ahmad, a GPFA member program support services mgr., is glad to be a part of the project and help his community. “In the past there were lots of forests in Sayed Abad. The hills were covered in trees,” said Ahmad. “Nothing is impossible if we try to get back to that level. We just need to support and to teach people how to do that.”

A key component to the program is community involvement. The locals will be actively engaged in the restoration process, by working the land and planting grass and trees. “The watershed project will employ the locals,” Davis said. “They'll work the land, and have property rights to the land as long as they keep working it.”

“It will provide them dignity, a sense of accomplishment and pride in themselves,” Bevier said. “The quality of life will get better. It will lead to a capacity to rebuild the economy, and increased health, but the key thing is hope. It will give them hope.”

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ISAF Joint Command

ISAF Joint Command Operational Update, Oct. 19, 2011

North

BAGHLAN PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor captured a Taliban leader, during an op in the Baghlan-e Jadid district, yesterday. The leader distributed funding and supplies for insurgent activity, and conducted attacks against Afghan forces in the region.

South

HELMAND PROVINCE — A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor killed multiple armed insurgents and detained numerous suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban facilitator in Kajaki district, yesterday. The facilitator leads subordinate fighters in attacks against helicopters, RPGs, heavy machine gun, and roadside bomb attacks. He also directs fighters to attack CF during search ops. The SecFor was engaged multiple times with small arms, sniper and mortar fire. Responding to the direct threat, the SecFor returned fire, killing the insurgents. Multiple AK-47 assault rifles were seized following the engagement. 

ZABUL PROVINCE -- A coalition SecFor discovered an IED weapons cache in Shah Joy district, yesterday. The cache consisted of 3 remote controlled IEDs with a total of 114-lbs (52 kgs) of homemade explosives, 2 82 mm recoilless rifle rounds, and IED making components. 

NANGARHAR PROVINCE -- In Sherzad district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor killed an insurgent and detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of a Taliban leader, yesterday. The leader operates in both the Sherzad and Khugyani districts, and is involved in ambush attacks against Afghan forces. 

East

PAKTIKA PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor carried out a precision airstrike in Gomal district, killing 2 insurgents, yesterday. The target of the op was an insurgent network leader who plans and conducts attacks against CF in the Sarobi and Orgun districts. 

KHOST PROVINCE -- In Manduzai district, a combined Afghan and coalition SecFor detained multiple suspected insurgents, during an op in search of an insurgent network leader. The leader plans and participates in attacks against Afghan forces.

PAKTIYA PROVINCE -- A combined Afghan and coalition SecFor captured an insurgent network leader and one additional suspected insurgent, during a security op in Ahmadabad district, yesterday. The network leader directed insurgents in roadside bomb and suicide attacks.

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IRAQI STORY:

DVIDS

Last Marine Team Leaves Iraq, Makes History

Story and photos by Staff Sgt. Rauel Tirado

A team of 13 Marine Corps trainers assigned to the Iraqi Marine Training Team 03 leave Iraq and convoy to Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, as the last Marine team of Op New Dawn, Oct. 14. The Marines, from Camp Pendleton, Calif., assigned to I Marine Expeditionary Force, spent the last several months training Iraqi Marines in various skills such as patrolling, night ops, weapons training, and search and seizure techniques.  IqMTT-03 will be a part of history.

UMM QASR –  Marine Col. Erick Thomas, officer-in-charge, Marine Central Command Coordination Element-Kuwait and Wash. resident, spoke to IqMTT-03 about this historic moment during their last formation. “Your mission is now complete,” said Thomas. “You're the last Marine team to have officially helped train the Iraqi Marine Corps.” 

“Over the past 5-1/2 months, you’ve shown the Iraqi Marines what honor, courage and commitment is,” said Thomas. “The Iraqi Marines have a huge responsibility ahead them.  Because of your team, and others before, the Iraqi Marines are ready and trained.” 

After the formation, the team took a moment to gather for some final photos together, to mark a piece of history, and to reflect on what they've accomplished. “Our mission was to train and advise the Iraqi Marines, in order to enhance their capabilities to accomplish their mission,” said Maj. Monte Powell, team chief of IqMTT-03 and Ill. native. “We've trained over 1,200 Iraqi Marines, and conducted over 500 combat patrols within the area of Umm Qasr.”

"The team also introduced the Iraqi Marines to vessel procedures, such as basic visit, board, and search and seizure techniques with the Iraqi Navy," said Powell. "Other accomplishments include conducting AK-47 weapons qualification, night vision training, vehicle control point, and entry control point techniques. 

In the role of advisors, the team worked closely with both the Iraqi Navy and Marine counterparts. As the last OND Marine team, Powell and his fellow Marines are proud of this moment. “The Iraqi Marines are a force that is self-reliant and able to accomplish their mission within the Iraqi armed forces,” said Powell. “The Marine Corps warrior ethos and spirit is cemented with the Iraqi Marines.”

A team of 13 Marine Corps trainers left here, Oct. 14. 

Maj. Monte Powell, team chief of Iraqi Marine Training Team 03, and Okla. native, takes charge of his 13 Marine trainers, during a final formation. 

The team of 13 Marine Corps trainers gather for a photo.

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