World News @ Anderson Free Press

Truckers' Mission Continues As End of Tour Approaches

kpaul.mallasch — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 20:53:42 -0800

Story by Sgt. Andy Mehler

Date: 11.03.2009
Posted: 11.03.2009 02:38

CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE ADDER, Iraq – When a deployed unit begins to approach their end-of-tour date, many Soldiers begin to shift their focus from deployment to re-deployment. For those involved in the logistics, focus is everything.

Each piece of equipment must be accounted for and prepared for shipment back home. It's a time of careful planning, cleaning, counting and packing.

But what happens in a support unit responsible for performing its mission until the final moment? How does a section perform its duties while preparing for a big move? Mechanics, for example, face the pressures of repairing vehicles in a timely manner while also taking the necessary steps to shut down their operations.

Sgt. Nic Light is a mechanic deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom to Contingency Operating Base Adder with Headquarters Support Company, 628th Aviation Support Battalion, as a part of the mobilization of the 28th Combat Aviation Brigade. Light works in the 628th ASB's motor pool, where units park their vehicles and repairs are made.

Light, a Lebanon, Pa., native said the motor pool's mechanics collectively operate nearly 24 hours each day. They are grouped into work teams. While some mechanics work on vehicle repairs and maintenance, others are tasked with cleaning and packing tools. Light said they must pull all tools and equipment from their storage trailers, inventory them, clean them individually, pressure wash the trailer and then replace all the tools inside. The storage trailer is then locked until it can be inspected by customs officials for shipment back home.

It is a big job to inventory and clean the mobile tool sets, but according to Light, "They are doing a hell of a job on cleaning tools, which have to be completely dust and dirt free." That's not an easy task in a desert environment.

Light said they faced another big hurdle as well. No support was in place for non-tactical vehicles, the civilian-model trucks and sport-utility vehicles used around the camp.

"We had to build up a parts stock and create an inventory for them," he said.

According to Light, the mechanics had to research all of the parts and corresponding stock numbers for the civilian vehicles and enter them into their existing military parts data base for future ordering needs.

Updating the parts inventory to include civilian vehicles will greatly assist the incoming unit assuming maintenance operations. Light said very soon the mechanics will be unable to order parts because their online system will be shut down, and the order of future items needed for repairs will become the responsibility of the incoming unit. That could mean that an inoperable vehicle may remain off the road until the replacement unit is able to fix it.

To avoid that possibility, the maintenance crew is working hard to quickly get disabled vehicles back on the road and mission-ready, while at the same time preparing to shut down and head back home. The supervisor of the mechanics' operation is Chief Warrant Officer 4 Blaine McKivison, a resident of Annville, Pa.

The motor pool is also the operations area for the Truck Platoon of Company A, 628th ASB, which transports cargo around COB Adder. As their deployment winds down, the Truck Platoon remains very busy assisting in the expansion of the camp. The platoon has been hauling large storage containers and housing trailers, as well as cement security walls and road barriers that are placed around the living areas for added safety.

Staff Sgt. Douglas Kimmel, platoon sergeant from Manheim, Pa., supervises the platoon's operations and coordinates missions with battalion leadership. The motor sergeants, Sgt. Steven Gabriel of Kane, Pa., and Sgt. Michal Franklin of Ephrata, Pa., ensure the platoon's vehicles are well-maintained and mission-ready. According to Kimmel, his platoon will use their assigned vehicles until they turn over their transportation operations to the incoming unit.

"The only thing that could potentially be an issue for us is if the mechanics have already discontinued their operations prior to our missions being completed," Kimmel said.

Even as Soldiers prepare to go back home, their missions at COB Adder remain top priority. The Soldiers of the 628th ASB continue to keep support operations flowing in anticipation of turning over all responsibilities to their replacement units. When the 628th ASB does return home, the battalion can rest assured it has served the 28th CAB well, and the men and women of the 628th can look back on this deployment with a sense of pride and accomplishment.

Art As an Escape: MND-B Troops Find Creative Outlets During Deployment

kpaul.mallasch — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 20:50:33 -0800

By Spc. Howard Alperin

BAGHDAD – The stresses of a long deployment can wear on Soldiers.

While there are a variety of activities, here on Camp Liberty, some Soldiers prefer to focus their down time in a more personal way.

"It helps me cope with missing home," said Spc. Wilbur Deshields, an entry control point guard, with A Company, Division Special Troops Battalion, 1st Cavalry Division. "You can only go to the gym so many times. Drawing is my mental escape. It gives me a chance to be creative. There's no limit to what I can do with my imagination."

For Deshields, there is therapeutic value in having a creative outlet.

"Whenever I'm mad, stressed-out or frustrated, that's when I get out my sketch pad," continued Deshields, from Akron, Ohio. "I draw best when I'm upset."

Deshields gets a lot of satisfaction by using his talent to help others.

"Sometimes, people ask me to draw a picture or an image for a tattoo. Other times, I draw something to cheer people up, to make them laugh," he said.

Creative outlets are another way for Soldiers to express their personal development during deployment.

"Everyone that comes to theater should leave as a different person. They should have had some transformation along the way," said 1st Lt. Michele Johnson, a casualty platoon leader and author, from Gulfport, Miss. "For an artist, you can see that transformation in their work."

Johnson, a published Christian non-fiction writer, writes blogs, poetry and songs.

"Writing is another way to get out what's on the inside; the feelings and emotions you're having about a situation or a person," said Johnson, assigned to the 271st Human Resources Company, Multi-National Division-Baghdad. "It helps me escape. It gets me away from the dirt and rocks. For however long I'm writing, I can focus on something else."

With her first fiction novel already published, Spc. Maria Beasley from Marfa, Texas, is using this deployment to publish her second novel and start work on a third one.

"For me, writing is a spiritual thing," said Beasley, a human resources specialist, assigned to Headquarters Support Company, DSTB, 1st Cav. Div. "It's about believing in the impossible."

Beasley gets her inspiration for writing from her interests, surroundings, the people in her life, stories she hears, and movies or television, she said. Her avenue for escape from the rigors of deployment is by transporting herself into another world with original characters, she added.

Having a passion or an art allows for the time to pass that much faster while deployed, according to these Soldiers.

"It's an outlet to express myself," she said. "It allows me to be who I really am. I let my mind get lost in the story."

Creative writing is good for helping to get through a year in theater, added Beasley. Her mind is always occupied with thoughts for her next chapter.

These Soldiers are proof that whether it is a chapter to be written, a song to be sung or an image to be drawn, finding an artistic outlet while on deployment is a constructive way to accomplish personal endeavors, wake up the mind's eye and beat back stressors from interfering with the mission.

India Company Marines Shower Kuwait Desert With Destruction

kpaul.mallasch — Sun, 06 Sep 2009 23:19:00 -0700

By Cpl. Justin Martinez

CAMP BUEHRING, Kuwait - A storm rolled through Kuwait. But it didn't bring water to replenish and hydrate the earth. Mother Nature had nothing to do with the deadly metal downpour that demolished the local desert. The havoc that rained down came from the combined force of the major subordinate elements of the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit.

Marines with India Company, Battalion Landing Team, 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, with the support of aviation, mortars, artillery, tanks and Amphibious Assault Vehicles, participated in a Deliberate Assault Course training exercise at a training area near Camp Buehring, Kuwait, Aug. 31 – Sept. 1, 2009.

As Marines awoke in the cool dry air, they dusted away the overnight sand deposit that sprinkled their sleeping bags and readied for the day's events.

The calm breeze began to pick up as India infantrymen wearing digital camouflage and tan protective gear, scrambled into the troop compartments of green, brown and black AAVs.

The AAVs' engines revved and whined as the lumbering vehicles cut a wake through oceans of sand toward their objective. In the distance, a rumble of explosions like distant thunder foretold an approaching deluge of steel rain.

"First, Sierra Battery launched some rounds down range to soften up the target for a bit," said Gunnery Sgt. Shawn C. Souders, the platoon sergeant for the AAV Platoon and native of Chester, Pa.

The 155 mm shells from Sierra's M777 Howitzers pummeled the ground, kicking up clouds of sand where the high-explosive rounds impacted.

Following Sierra's steel rain, Weapons Company's 81mm Mortar Platoon hurled rounds downrange as an AH-1W Super Cobra from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 263 (Reinforced), sliced through the air, striking with rockets and guns to further scour the desert of threats.

"It's good for them, as infantrymen, to see that there are other Marines that do other jobs," said 1st Lt. Matthew K. Seglem, the executive officer for India and native of College Station, Texas. "To see pilots, the artillery Marines, the mortar Marines -- Marines we don't really interact with on a daily basis -- to see them in action supporting what we do on the ground is a good opportunity."

In a final gust of obliteration, three camouflage tanks blew through the deep sand, their sights set simultaneously on the same subject. Flames billowed out of the tanks' main guns raining death on the demolished objective. The firing continued for several minutes as AAVs advanced forward.

A beam of sunlight pierced the shadows of the troop compartment in the AAVs, illuminating the chaos that lay beyond the protective shell of the vehicle.

"We set up a support-by-fire position for them," said Cpl. Nicholas C. Whatton, an AAV crewman from Point Pleasant, N.J. "We sent our 50-cal rounds down range. Once we were out of rounds we dropped ramp and deployed the infantry."

The Marines stormed out of the AAVs and took up position behind a small berm circling a training village. In teams, the warriors flooded over the edge and into the makeshift town.

A few moments after the grunts entered the town, the call came that a Marine had been hit. A notional chest wound was taking a toll on the Marine and he needed to be evacuated for further care.

"As the corpsman in the AAV platoon, I know my job is to save lives, and although the casualty might have been notional I know my job was the same," said Petty Officer 3rd Class David T. Spanding, the hospital corpsman for the AAV Platoon, and native of Rockford, Mich.

The MV-22B Osprey, from VMM-263 (Reinforced), came in kicking up a large cloud of sand as a team of four moved the casualty to the safety of the aircraft.

As the aircraft lifted, the Marines secured their objective. The combined force of the 22nd MEU, supporting the main effort of India Company, brought a rain of metal death to the desert and showed how combined arms work together as whole to shoot, move, communicate and devastate a challenger.

The 22nd MEU, led by Col. Gareth F. Brandl, is a scalable, multi-purpose force of more than 2,200 Marines and Sailors. The unit is composed of its Ground Combat Element, BLT 3/2 (commanded by Lt. Col. Robert C. Fulford); Aviation Combat Element, Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 263 (Reinforced) (commanded by Lt. Col. Paul P. Ryan); Logistics Combat Element, Combat Logistics Battalion 22 (commanded by Lt. Col. Gary F. Keim); and its Command Element.

Airport in Afghanistan is World's Busiest This Summer

kpaul.mallasch — Sun, 06 Sep 2009 02:43:39 -0700

By Lance Cpl. Gregory Aalto

KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Kandahar Province, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – With the increase in forces in southern Afghanistan, Kandahar Airfield has become the busiest single-runway airport in the world.

Peaking in late May at an estimated 5,500 flights per week, the airfield has maintained more than 5,000 flights per week through June and July, said Col. Bill Buckey, the airfield's operations officer, a Marine augmented to NATO's International Security Assistance Force.

Previously, the busiest single-runway airport in the world was the London Gatwick Airport, averaging around 5,000 flights per week.

Marine Attack Squadron 214 "Black Sheep" and Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 352 Detachment A, both with Marine Aircraft Group 40, Marine Expeditionary Brigade-Afghanistan, are the only Marine aviation units solely based here.

Controlling the heavy amount of air traffic is Midwest Air Traffic Control, a contracted company from Kansas City, Mo., said Buckey, who is serving a six-month tour in Afghanistan's second-largest city.

"This is the first time NATO has ever owned a base this big. It's really amazing how everyone is cooperating. I'm pretty impressed," said Buckey, a native of Sacramento, Calif.

The total flights at Kandahar are also higher than some of the busiest airports in the world per runway.

London Heathrow Airport averages 4,600 flights per runway per week and Charles de Gaulle International Airport in Paris averages 2,700 flights per runway per week.

The numbers are skewed because unlike civilian airports, Kandahar has military fixed and rotary wing aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles as well as civilian flights and light civil aircraft, said Buckey, who is also a trained F/A-18 Hornet pilot.

As operations in southern Afghanistan continue, the tempo for Kandahar Airfield will continue in order to provide aerial support to the International Security Assistance Force's counterinsurgency mission.

Female Military Police 'driven' to Protect

kpaul.mallasch — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 02:45:42 -0700

By Pfc. Kelly LeCompte

BAGHDAD, IRAQ - Spc. Yessenia Morales, of High Point, N.C., and Spc. Felicia Sloan, of Lumberton, N.C., are two military police Soldiers that serve as mine resistant ambush protected vehicle drivers in security details for the command group of the 30th Heavy Brigade Combat Team.

Morales, one of two females on her protection team, looks after Col. Greg Lusk, the North Carolina Army National Guard brigade's commander, while Sloan, one of three females on hers, protects the brigade's Command Sgt. Maj. John Swart.

"We drive him and protect him," Morales said of Lusk. "We are his security."

Sloan said that at the beginning of the deployment in late April, the males treated them a little differently, but now the "girls" are just part of the family.

"We've held our own," Sloan said. "We do everything they do."

Morales said that as most of the Soldiers on her team are infantrymen; infantry is a male-only career field; working with a woman was new to most of them.

"My guys on my team weren't really used to working with females," Morales said. "There's not really even a lot of MP guys on my team, so they didn't know what it was gonna be like to work with females. But now, they don't mind, I'm like, the little sister on the team."

"We've all come to accept each other," Sloan said.

The girls said even though the different members on the team each have their own roles, they are all still expected to know how to do each other's jobs.

"We've been trained the same," Sloan said. "We can fire the weapons the gunners use. We've had the same training and if it came down to it, we can all do the same thing. And the guys know that."

The two said the like their jobs, with its busy pace that helps the deployment pass quickly.

"I like that we get to see so many different places," Sloan said about the operating area south of Baghdad.

"When you're constantly doing something, you find the days fly by," Morales said. "If I have a day off, I find myself trying to find things to

Airpower Delivers 'critical' Ammunition to Afghanistan National Army Soldiers on the Ground

kpaul.mallasch — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 02:40:31 -0700

BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan -- Nothing ever goes by the book, but this is a classic example of airpower supporting ground forces – primarily the Afghanistan national army – with close air support and air-drop capabilities.

The day could be like any other day, but the calls came in – coalition forces, engaged with the enemy on the ground, were running low on ammunition and needed a re-supply.

Like a swarm of bees overhead looking to sting, U.S. Army AH-64 Apache helicopters, deployed from the 159th Combat Aviation Brigade of the 101st Airborne, from Fort Campbell, Ky., and U.S. Air Force A-10 Warthogs deployed, from Moody Air Force Base, Ga., weren't going to let anything happen to their allies fighting on the ground.

U.S. Army Capt. Matthew Clementz, one of the Apache gunship pilots that day with Task Force Attack, said that between his Apaches and the A-10 Warthogs, they cleared the way of insurgents for the airdrop and that there was "good interaction with each other."

In classic fashion, a workhorse of modern warfare was ready to assist. Lumbering over enemy terrain, the C-130 Hercules and crew assigned to the 774th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron at Bagram Air Field had the ammunition destined for the Afghans fighting for their lives on the ground.

At the helm of the 25-year-old airplane was U.S. Air Force Capt. D.J. Spisso, deployed from the 165th Airlift Wing, out of Savannah, Ga., and he knew this mission would be different.

The success of the mission rested in the hands of an aircrew blended of active-duty, National Guard and Reserve Airmen from various units in the U.S., to include, Schenectady, N.Y., Savannah, Ga., Little Rock, Ark., Saint Joseph's, Mo., and Mansfield, Ohio.

"This was a complete team effort," Spisso said. "It was difficult terrain, communications were scarce and we made it. It was a good drop."

And making the drop right on target is important when the good guys are in need according to Spisso, who is also employed as a civilian pilot when not on active duty.

"It's something you feel good about-- helping coalition partners in need," he said. "Coalition members coming together for a common good," the Citadel graduate said. And, that's just what happened "we're willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done."

And, fortunately for the Afghan soldiers on the ground fighting the enemy, the Air Force's commitment to Total Force and joint operations paid off and the 'Herk-drivers' hit their mark.

Commander of Multinational Forces Iraq: Iraqi Response Paves Way for More Progress

kpaul.mallasch — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 02:27:44 -0700

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

CAMP VICTORY, Iraq, – The commander of Multinational Forces Iraq said today he’s extremely pleased with the way Iraqi security forces have stepped to the plate following the June 30 withdrawal of American forces from the cities and towns of the country.

Army Gen. Raymond T. Odierno said he is on track to fulfill the mission he and his command of 130,000 Americans in the country have received. “I’ve been given very clear guidance: one is that we will have a change of mission on Aug. 31, 2010, and we will no longer have a combat mission,” he said during an interview at the Al Faw Palace here. “And by Dec. 31, 2011, all U.S. troops will have left Iraq.”

Trend lines are moving in the right direction, with overall incidents in July down from June, which was down from May, the general said. High-profile attacks also will be down in July, and casualties are fewer than in past months, he added. “All indicators are right,” Odierno said. “It’s not perfect -- we’ve had some growing pains -- but I will tell you we’ve worked through those over time.”

The turnover of responsibility to Iraqi security forces is itself important, the general said. The fact that the United States is executing the agreement signed in December is important in and of itself. “It has sent the message that we are going to abide by the agreement that we signed,” he said.

Iraqi and American commanders worked together to get past difficulties in implementing the agreement, Odierno said. On July 9, Army Lt. Gen. Charles Jacoby, the commander of Multinational Corps Iraq, and Gen. Ali Giban, the Iraqi ground forces commander, held a historic video teleconference including 500 Iraqi and American commanders. They resolved many of the issues with the agreement at that time, which has helped the process go so smoothly since then.

The change has improved relationships between Iraqi and American commanders. “The Iraqi commanders have realized that the better their relationships with the U.S. counterparts, the more successful they will be,” Odierno said. “We’re really seeing the relationships improve.”

The area that most concerns the general is northern Iraq. The Arab-Kurd issue is the main “driver of instability” in the country today, he said. Insurgent groups are trying to exploit the Kurd-Arab tensions in the north, especially in Iraq’s Kirkuk and Ninevah provinces. “We watch very carefully that this doesn’t escalate so this doesn’t cause some sort of ethnic violence,” he said. “We’ve not seen that so far.”

Arabs and Kurds have had discussions, and with the conclusion of the elections in the Kurdish Regional Government last week, the general said, he hopes a high-level Kurdish-Arab group under United Nations auspices will help to solve areas of disagreement between the two sides.

U.S. forces also are working through a mindset change due to the withdrawal from the cities and towns, a change that takes into account “the fact that [the Iraqis] are in the lead, the fact that we do every operation jointly and we do no unilateral operations, to include special operations missions,” Odierno said.

American troops have the inherent right to self defense, and will retain that, Odierno said. But in everything else, he added, it means that the Iraqis are in the lead. This was a bigger change in Mosul and some parts of Baghdad than it was in other parts of the country.

“There are those who have had more trouble than others [in embracing the new mindset],” he said, “but overall, I’ve been very happy that the majority have been able to make the adjustment.”

The idea is to finish the mission with honor and success, the general said.

The change, Odierno noted, is something for American servicemembers to celebrate.

“When I got here as the corps commander in November 2006, I would never have dreamed that we would have some this far,” he said, noting the Sunni-Shiia struggle that permeated the country at the time. Now, the unified Iraqi force is responsible for security.

American servicemembers must realize this success is because of their sacrifices, and none of this progress would have happened without them, the general said.

The improved position in Iraq has allowed the U.S. military to increase the effort in Afghanistan. The security situation in Iraq is such that forces now are flowing into Afghanistan -- long considered the secondary front. Odierno acknowledged some bumps in the road in that effort, however, especially with some enablers such as engineers and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance assets. Odierno also acknowledged that “there will have to be some hard decisions made” if serious problems arise in Iraq as troops are flowing in to Afghanistan.

The election coming up in January is the key to Iraq, the general said. “If we have a successful election and there is a peaceful transition of power,” he said, “I believe it will make it more difficult [for terror] groups to move the country backward.”

The Iraqi people have momentum on their side, the general noted. They’ve built it by taking over security in the cities and towns and by holding successful provincial elections. If the elections in January are successful, he added, “then the momentum would be very hard to stop.”

Gates Discusses Iran, Other Issues With Israeli Leaders

kpaul.mallasch — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 00:31:55 -0700

By Jim Garamone

JERUSALEM, The Holy City - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates discussed the Iranian nuclear problem and other defense issues with Israeli leaders on July 27, 2009. Gates met with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Ehud Barak during a quick trip to Israel.

During a news conference with Barak at the historic King David Hotel, Gates received firsthand the Israeli feeling on Iran's nuclear weapons program. "This is a central issue in our minds here," Barak said. "We do welcome a coordinated international effort to try to block this nuclear military problem."

The Israelis told Gates that the continuation of the Iranian effort could destabilize the whole Middle East. "Israel retains its position that no option should be taken off the table," the defense minister said. "Of course, at this stage, priority still should be given to diplomacy and international cooperation."

Gates agreed that a nuclear-armed Iran "would be profoundly destabilizing to the entire region and a threat certainly to Israel, the United States and other countries in the region." He said Israel and the United States are in full agreement on the consequences of Iran becoming a nuclear power.

"We also agreed that we must take every opportunity to persuade the Iranians to reconsider what is actually in their own security interests," Gates said.

President Barack Obama has said the United States will discuss the situation with Iran, but that the offer is not open-ended. "The president is fully aware that the Iranians may simply try to run out the clock," Gates said. "I think the president is hoping for some kind of response by this fall," at the opening of the U.N. General Assembly session.

The international community is imposing sanctions against Iran for its continued intransigence. Another path being pursued is to try to convince the Iranians that the country's security is diminished by continuing to develop its nuclear capability.

"This is partly because it would be destabilizing, partly because it might set off an arms race in the Middle East," Gates explained. U.S. efforts include developing bilateral and multilateral relationships with friends and allies in the region, he noted. This already has resulted in cooperation in the region on maritime surveillance and air defense, he added.

On his first visit to Israel in more than two years, Gates reiterated Obama's pledge that the bond between the United States and Israel is unbreakable. "We also discussed the regional challenges we both face from terrorism to the threat posed by Iran's pursuit of nuclear weapons," Gates said during the news conference.

The United States provides Israel with financial and technical aid to combat threats posed by rockets and missiles. "We will continue to ensure that Israel has the most advanced weapons for its national defense," Gates said. For example, he said, he and Israeli officials discussed progress with the Joint Strike Fighter. Israel is a partner in the stealth aircraft's development.

"Of course, achieving long-term security for Israel is ultimately dependent on a sustainable, comprehensive Middle East peace," Gates said. "The goal is vitally important for regional security."

The United States will help to move the process forward by addressing Israeli requirements to make a two-state Israeli-Palestinian solution possible, Gates said.

Barak said Israel appreciates the U.S. commitment to the security of Israel and the monetary and technical assistance to keep Israel's qualitative military edge.

Following the meetings, Gates departed for Jordan, where he will meet with King Abdullah and military leaders.

A New Formula for Afghanistan's Success

kpaul.mallasch — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 23:40:59 -0700

CAMP ATTERBURY, IN. – After decades of violence and war in Afghanistan, the battle for law, stability and structure to the economy remains a fighting factor in its independence. The U.S. government has remained dedicated to bolstering Afghanistan's economy.

New strategies are being implemented by the U.S. to take a different approach to handling the balance of economic stability of Afghanistan by adding civilians into the restorative equation.

As the upcoming deployment of the Indiana National Guard's 38th Infantry Division nears, Soldiers with Task Force Cyclone have joined forces to gain the insight of professionals outside the military on the topic of rule of law.

Members of Task Force Cyclone's Staff Judge Advocate section met with Indiana University professor of law, David Fidler, at Camp Atterbury to discuss strategies of implementing and maintaining the rule of law in Afghanistan.

Fidler, who is also the director of the Center on American and Global Security at IU, said this joint exchange of information is important to the success of refortifying Afghanistan's economy.

"Working with the rule of law activities has heightened the sensibilities of military personnel and civilian officials to their mutual needs," said Fidler. "It seems the level of respect between the military and the civilian side of the house is growing, a recognition that this really does need to be a united effort."

Fidler explained that in early efforts to make Afghanistan and Iraq more prosperous societies, it was the military that took on all the obstacles of rebuilding and restructuring these war-torn economies.

"One of the problems in Iraq and Afghanistan is that many tasks of stability operations, reconstruction and development have been undertaken by military personnel, because there simply haven't been civilians there or civilians trained or available to do this," he explained.

With a surge of civilian professionals moving into Afghanistan soon, the overall plan is to handle many aspects of government, agriculture and economics, all of which have regulatory laws covering each part. That's where the 38th comes in.

Part of Task Force Cyclone's mission will be to assist the Afghanistan government with security, construction, economic and agricultural support in the assigned areas of operation, all of which correspond in some way or another with the rule of law.

"When you think about all the lines of operation – like governments, economic development, essential services and humanitarian relief – cutting across all of those are legal issues. Part of what the rule of law operations do is make sure law is functioning effectively to support economic development or to support essential services," said Fidler.

Along with having many different types of laws, there needs to be more capable judges and lawyers in Afghanistan's legal system, says Senior Staff Judge Advocate Lt. Col. James Zieba, Task Force Cyclone.

"There needs to be an effort to educate and provide professional development so the judges and the lawyers become more competent in what they do," said Zieba.

Many different tribal laws and customs affect numerous ethnic regions of Afghanistan, so the focus is on making a standard set of laws across the country.

A big challenge foreseen by Zieba is the unification between the different ethnic groups who control law in their particular area.

"It will be a struggle to deal with the different ethnicities because you may have some ethnicities at first that will reject you," said Zieba. "If you can show what the benefits are to a community and the economic development in that community, then the leaders could help grow that into the other communities."

Both Fidler and Zieba agreed that regardless of when it's accomplished, the problem as a whole cannot be figured by one resource alone. All parties involved from the inside out have to work together to complete the objective of the rule of law initiative.

"There's an increasing willingness and understanding of working together and I think that is going to pay long-term dividends for the U.S. national security and foreign policy going forward," said Fidler.

"This certainly adds an exciting element to the mission," said Zieba. "It's exciting to have an opportunity to go in and try to establish rule of law because it's the foundation for a [advanced] society."

Zieba said the rule of law will not become visible immediately; it will take some time to get each region on board.

"What we do may not be visible next year or the year after, but if we can put the foundation in place we will have the building blocks in place to make Afghanistan a [more advanced] society that can function on its own," said Zieba.

Marines Build Motivation With Recognizable Image

kpaul.mallasch — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 04:04:08 -0700

By Lance Cpl. Daniel Flynn

CAMP DWYER, Helmand Province, Afghanistan - What is needed to get through a combat deployment? Some might say the answer is perseverance, determination and motivation. Two Marines with Regimental Combat Team 3, deployed here from 3rd Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment based in Okinawa, Japan, have gone out of their way to help bring a little bit of motivation to their fellow Marines and Sailors.

Cpl. David Belling and Lance Cpl. William Byrne, field artillery fire control men with RCT-3, built a silhouetted Iwo Jima memorial at the RCT-3 compound here. This particular memorial depicts one of the most recognizable photographs of World War II, taken by Joe Rosenthal, of five Marines and one Navy corpsman raising the American flag atop Mount Suribachi on the fourth day of the Battle of Iwo Jima.

"I wanted to do what I could to help bring a little bit of motivation and help boost the morale of the Marines," said Belling, who is nine months into his deployment.

They started working on the memorial July 20, and it took about eight hours to complete it.

We worked on the project because we wanted to inspire others by reminding everyone of the history of our Corps, Byrne said.

Throughout the process of building the memorial, Marines and Sailors approached the Marines, shaking their hands and telling them "good job."

"The memorial just signifies what Marines are," said Petty Officer 1st Class Gustavo Ortiz, the religious program specialist with RCT-3. "It is things like this that make it such a privilege to serve with Marines."

In their efforts, Belling and Byrne have left an iconic image of pride and motivation so that those who travel past will remember the sacrifice Marines and Sailors have given.

Container Repair Yard Increases Production, Reaches Milestone 3rd Sustainment Command (Expeditionary) RSS Story by Spc. Michael

kpaul.mallasch — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 04:01:35 -0700

By Spc. Michael Behlin

JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq – Just seven months ago, Joint Base Balad's Iraqi-owned container repair yard consisted of 45 workers and a quota to repair a minimum of 60 containers per month.

Since then, the Miran Village Company has continued to exceed its production standard monthly since January. This accomplishment, however, pales in comparison next to what the company has grown into today through the hard work of its Iraqi owner and staff, and U.S. Forces.

The Miran Village Co. is now capable of employing nearly 100 workers, and able to repair more than 200 containers a month given their recent milestone.

"In the beginning we had only 45 workers, but we were still able to exceed production," said Hashim Abd Al-Amir Mahdi, owner of the Miran Village Co. "We were successful at the time even though most of the workers were new at their job and just becoming skilled. Now with better training and understanding of their job, we can continue to increase our production."

In June, Mahdi said he employed a total of 84 workers and credits the company's increased productivity to the new workers. For future months, Mahdi said production goals include reaching 250 containers per month, and growing to more than 100 employees. To meet these goals, the Miran Village Co. plans to hire and train a total of 10 new workers per month, which will allow a gradual increase in the company's workforce.

The successes of Mahdi and the Miran Village Co. have not gone unnoticed by those who work with him.

"He [Mahdi] has definitely impressed us in our 30 days of being here," said Capt. Jason J. Vivian, the 80th Ordnance Battalion support operations transportation officer and South Fork, Pa., native. "His business practices have made for a very successful business here on JBB."

While Mahdi appreciates the praise and success of his company, he credits his workers and coalition forces for all that his company has achieved.

First, he credits Soldiers of the 155th Inland Cargo Transportation Company for their willingness to supply his company with personnel and assistance to be successful. An active-duty unit from Fort Eustis, Va., the 155th ICTC supplied Mahdi with a contracting officer representative, escorts and several inspectors who ensure containers are repaired properly before they proceed to their next destination.

Next, he credits a willingness to learn and work hard by his Iraqi workers. Mahdi made clear the main purpose of his company is not to make a profit, but to allow for many Iraqis to be able to provide for themselves and their families.

Before being employed by the Miran Village Co., many of the workers had no idea of their future or how they would earn a living for their families.

With the Miran Village Co. boasting nearly a 95 percent skill rate for its workers, Iraqis are now trained in welding, carpentry, and painting. These skills are valuable to the Iraqi workers and could assist them in the future, even if the company were to disband for any reason.

"The main point of this project is to promote a bright future for many Iraqis," said Mahdi. "If it wasn't for this company, many of our workers would not know what they would be doing for work. This company has really made a difference for many families outside the wire."

Iraqis working for the Miran Village Co. earn a monthly base salary, depending on what duties they perform. Mahdi said it's not a secret that he also gives his workers incentives for reaching certain performance goals. He attributes these incentives to the company's growth in production.

"The more containers a worker can repair, the more money they can make," Mahdi said. "This is done to push my workers and shows them that if they work hard, they'll have the opportunity to get paid more. It's simple as that."

Mahdi stated that this performance incentive gives the Iraqi workers a goal to strive for and a chance to measure themselves.

Lastly, even though Mahdi believes in standard business practices, one in particular he pushes more than others is having an open business. By this, he explained that he doesn't keep any information from his workers.

Each week, management and workers of the Miran Village Co. have a roundtable of discussions regarding problems and possible solutions. These discussions also include a safety briefing, where workers receive lectures on safety and promote a safe, healthy working environment.

For future endeavors, Mahdi mentioned that the CRY and Miran Village Co. will expand to accommodate more workers and more production.

Although Mahdi is rather modest about his personal contributions in ensuring that his business is successful, he believes many Iraqi businessmen can have the same success.

He described his three standards for a successful business as having a good business plan, pay a fair salary and to believe in your workers. Mahdi feels that if an Iraqi businessman follows this plan, they can be successful.

"For Iraqi business owners to be successful, they first need to believe. Iraqis are hard workers and if you believe in them, you can do whatever you want," he said. "Before U.S. troops came to Iraq, many Iraqis didn't have a bright future. Now, many Iraqis are dreaming for a new future and are within reach of achieving their goals."

Militants Attack Mosque, Afghan National Security Force, International Security Assistance Force Assist Injured

kpaul.mallasch — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 03:55:52 -0700

KABUL, Afghanistan – Insurgents attacked a mosque at a combat outpost in the Kamdesh District, injuring two Afghan national army soldiers, who were awaiting evening prayer, on July 26, 2009. The outpost was attacked with small arms fire, mortars, and a rocket-propelled grenade. The rounds impacted the outpost's mosque.

Afghan national security force and International Security Assistance Force service members treated the soldiers for shrapnel wounds, and medically evacuated those who needed further treatment.

"These brave soldiers fight for the people of Afghanistan every day, and their sacrifices show that they truly care for the people," said Captain Jay Ireland, the outpost commander. "These insurgents have shown they do not care about the people of Afghanistan, nor do they respect these soldiers' right to practice their religion."

ISAF is a key component of the international community's engagement in Afghanistan, assisting the Afghan authorities in providing security and stability and creating the conditions for reconstruction and development.

Afghans Improve Quality of Life With Task Force Mountain Warrior Assistance

kpaul.mallasch — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 03:32:54 -0700

BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan - The Afghan government, its citizens and Afghan national security forces throughout Nuristan province are taking full advantage of the skills, training and mentoring provided by Task Force Mountain Warrior service members to improve the security and quality of life for the people in the province.

Afghan national police, assigned to Nuristan Gov. Jamaluddin Badr's personal security detail, conducted weapons training alongside Task Force Mountain Warrior service members with the Nuristan Provincial Reconstruction Team at Forward Operating Base Kalagush in Nuristan province, Afghanistan, July 23. The 10 ANP officers demonstrated outstanding marksmanship. At the conclusion of the training ANP Gen. Qasim presented the policemen with certificates for their outstanding achievement.

Construction of the Wama District Center began with a ground-breaking ceremony, July 20. A construction company gathered along with local villagers and leaders to start digging the foundation. The sub-governor, Din Muhammed, and the local police chief laid the first stone. The ceremony also included a luncheon sponsored by the construction company.

Nuristan PRT sponsors a weekly training session for local villagers to learn basic construction skills. An Afghan engineer, Zalmi, conducts the classroom training for villagers who participate. Those who attend the class at least three times are given ten bags of concrete per week for a project that will benefit their village. With regular attendance and project progress reports, each student continues to receive bags of concrete for their project.

Afghan-International Security Forces Detain Haqqani Militants in Paktika

kpaul.mallasch — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 03:31:13 -0700

KABUL, Afghanistan – A joint Afghan and international security force searched a compound last night in the remote reaches of Paktika province in an effort to disrupt Haqqani command and control, communications, and supply lines in the region.

The joint team searched the compound in the Deela District of Paktika, about 160 kilometers southwest of the city of Gardez, after intelligence indicated militant activity. A search was conducted without incident and five suspected militants were detained.

The Haqqani network conducts operations in conjunction with other Islamic militant groups with similar goals and interests. The network focuses operations against the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and Afghan national security forces, and seeks to expel international security forces from Afghanistan to maintain its influence in eastern provinces.

There were no Afghan, international security forces or civilian casualties during the incident.

Combined Maritime Forces Issues Piracy Warning to Mariners

kpaul.mallasch — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 03:29:49 -0700

MANAMA, Bahrain - The Combined Maritime Forces are warning mariners of an anticipated increase in piracy incidents when the southwest monsoon ends in the coming weeks, and are reiterating that merchant mariners must continue to take proactive action to help prevent piracy attacks.

High sea states over the past few weeks in the Somali Basin have resulted in fewer attacks on vessels transiting the area but mariners must continue to remain vigilant.

"The prior preparation and vigilance of merchant mariners at all times of day and night is more important now than ever," said Turkish Rear Adm. Caner Bener, commander, Combined Task Force 151. "CTF 151 and other multi-national maritime forces deployed to the region are successfully coordinating counter-piracy efforts. While our ability to deter and disrupt attacks has improved over time, we are constantly adapting the way we do our business as the pirates adapt and modify their tactics."

Using the Internationally Recognized Transit Corridor in the Gulf of Aden, reporting to the UKMTO and the EU's Maritime Security Center before transits, keeping a constant lookout, and embarking security teams are all recommended actions that will help reduce the risk of a successful attack.

Naval forces from CTF 151, the European Union, NATO and a number of other international nations continue to coordinate their activities in an international effort to deter piracy and reassure the maritime community that every effort is being made to ensure the safe and lawful passage of maritime traffic throughout the region.

However, while more than 30 ships and aircraft from 16 nations continue to patrol the waters off the Somali coast, the closest military ship or aircraft may not be close enough to render assistance to a vessel under attack.

Bener recently met with task force commanders from NATO and the European Union to discuss coalition counter-piracy operations off the coast of Somalia. The task force commanders meeting was held at sea and focused on new strategies and future plans were development to more effectively and efficiently track down suspected pirates and to protect sea lines of communication.

"In this environment, the importance of merchant mariners as first line defenders against pirates is absolutely vital," said Commodore Tim Lowe, deputy commander, Combined Maritime Forces. "The crews of those merchant vessels that have employed evasive maneuvering and other defensive measures to protect their ships and their cargoes have proven to be more successful at evading attack."

Analysis continues to show that vessels travelling at slow speeds with low freeboard, failing to employ adequate lookouts particularly during periods of heightened risk, are ships that continue to be pirated off the Somali coast.

International naval forces will continue to patrol the waters off the Somali coast in an effort to deter, disrupt, and interdict pirates and help ensure lawful maritime order.

Seabees Build Modern-day 'Noah's Ark' in Afghanistan

kpaul.mallasch — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 12:46:49 -0700

CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan - The Marines affectionately call the structure "Noah's Ark," for its similarities to the vessel built before flood waters covered the earth in biblical times.

In the rugged desert of southern Afghanistan sit hundreds of tents occupied by Marines for as far as the eye can see.

Rising above the dust and grit that blow across the Helmand plains, one object stands out majestically amongst Marine Expeditionary Brigade-Afghanistan's sprawling tent city at the unit's base of operations at Camp Leatherneck.

This modern-day ark, built for Marines in less than three months by sailors of Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 5, looms over all other structures across the desert camp.

"In my 19 years in the Navy, I have never built a building this big," said Petty Officer 1st Class Thomas Damron, a supervisor for the construction of the 12,000 square-foot structure. "This is the largest wooden structure I've ever seen Seabees build."

Damron, a Port Hueneme, Calif., native, said the building is the largest building made by the Navy outside the U.S. since World War II and will be used for coordinating various aspects of MEB-Afghanistan's mission, which includes counterinsurgency operations and mentoring and training Afghan national security forces.

Construction of the massive building began two months before MEB-Afghanistan arrived in Helmand province. Damron said the Seabees are currently on schedule to meet their deadline for finishing the Ark, but only because of the sweat and perseverance that has come from the naval construction workers involved.

"We're all pushed to our limits," Damron said. "A construction job of this size takes an average of five months to complete. We're doing it in less than three."

The sailors each work an average of 12 hours every day at the least. By the time the sun rises, on average, the temperature is 85 degrees, said Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Amber Chambliss, hospital corpsman, Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 5. She said temperatures lately can reach 125 degrees by mid-day.

"This job they're doing can be extremely dangerous," Chambliss said, of working both inside and outside the building, which currently lacks air conditioning. "Dealing with the heat is a serious issue alone, not to add the possibility of falling off the roof."

The Miami native said individuals who work on the job site drink anywhere from two to three gallons of water daily. And it's necessary, she said, noting the fact that if one of the workers falls out, the job will become even harder to complete on time.

The day-to-day job hasn't been easy, Damron said. In order to reach their completion deadline, the Seabees work nearly non-stop, taking an hour-long break for lunch and 10-minute breaks every hour to rest. Reaching their completion time has required every one of those minutes saved, he said.

"This is one of the toughest jobs some of us have ever done because of the elements and working conditions," Damron said. "It's controlled chaos. We've been building this at more than two times the speed it would take on average to complete. Everyone is constantly doing different things, moving different directions, accomplishing one job, then moving toward the next."

"Look at them, you can se the exhaustion in their faces," said Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Garrison Hardisty, project supervisor. "And they're only halfway through the day. They're all pushed to the limit."

Hardisty said everyone is physically drained when they leave the job site in the evenings. The job has taken an obvious toll on Damron, who said he's lost more than 30 pounds since he arrived in Afghanistan. But, Hardisty said, they return each day and never give up.

And even though returning each day reminds them of the grueling tasks ahead, it also reminds them of how far they have come in such a short amount of time.

"Everyone's excited to see the end result," Damron said, enthusiastically. "We're all proud to have had a part in this building. It will be around for years to come."

Petty Officers 2nd Class Landon Church and John Nicholas, project lead electrician and utilities man respectively, said they were confident in the building becoming operational by its deadline. Church, a Byron, Mich., native, said he and his team of electricians have installed more than 10,000 feet of wiring throughout the building to support hundreds of computers. Nicholas, a Boise, Idaho, native, said the facility will also be climate-controlled, ready to accept those who will work there when it opens.

As the clock continues to count down, the Seabees remain resilient, motivated by purpose and commitment. But as one job nears an end, others add up by the week. After the brigade command center is complete, they will move on and continue to build the Regimental Combat Team 3 and Camp Leatherneck Garrison Combat Operations Center, also 12,000 square-feet each.

"As soon as this job is complete, we will carry on to the next," Damron explained. "There will be no rest for us."

CENTCOM Investigation Team Releases Interim Results on Farah

kpaul.mallasch — Wed, 20 May 2009 23:36:44 -0700

KABUL, Afghanistan – An ongoing U.S. Central Command investigation team briefed interim findings after reviewing information on recent events in Farah province associated with alleged civilian casualties.

Investigators reviewed weapon sight video from the aircraft supporting the coalition rescue of Afghan national security forces in Bala Baluk on May 4 which clearly depicts insurgents entering the buildings which were then targeted in the final strikes of the fight. Combined with audio recordings of the ground commander and air crew conversations the investigators were able to confirm that the insurgents fleeing from the firefight were regrouping in several small rural buildings which were then subsequently destroyed. A review of the physical evidence is inconclusive in determining the exact number of civilian and insurgent casualties. In all, the investigation team estimates that 60-65 Taliban extremists were killed in these engagements, while at least 20-30 civilians may have been killed during the fighting. The investigators continue to attempt to better confirm casualty numbers.

A large number of Taliban fighters, to include non-Afghans, consolidated on Ganj Abad and Grani villages May 3, and demanded payments from villagers. Afghan and coalition troops reported observing at least 300 villagers evacuating the area prior to the fighting. Reports from Afghan officials indicated that the Taliban had executed three former government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan officials. In a joint operation the Afghan national police supported by the Afghan national army went to the village to drive out the Taliban. As the ANP approached the village of Garani they were ambushed by 200-300 Taliban. During the initial ambush two ANP were killed. A total of five ANP officers were killed during the battle. Outmanned and outgunned the Provincial Governor request the coalition Quick Reaction Force.

Once the coalition force arrived, they along with an ANA unit attempted to help the ANP. At this point, the Taliban launched another attack, firing on the ANA and coalition forces. One U.S. Navy Corpsman was shot in the shoulder while attempting to rescue a wounded Afghan soldier and an ANA soldier was shot in the chest as he attempted to charge a Taliban position. In order to rescue the fallen ANA 1st Sergeant who was trapped by heavy Taliban machine gun and RPG fire, the coalition force used close air support by F-18s to suppress the enemy fire from buildings nearby. The coalition Forces and ANA then rushed forward, placed the fallen ANA 1st Sgt. on a stretcher and carried him to safety. The 1st Sgt. was later transported from the battle by medical evacuation helicopter, and due to the bravery of the ANA and coalition soldiers he is expected to make a full recovery. Following this, one B-1 provided fires in coordination with the ground commander on buildings and a tree grove insurgents were firing from or massing in. ANSF and US Forces remained in the area until the next morning and observed the villagers returning after the fighting had ceased.

"We regret the loss of any civilian life," said Col. Greg Julian, "and express our condolences to the families who lost loved ones in this fighting with insurgents firing from and regrouping in villagers' homes. We continue to work closely with the Afghan national security forces to bring security and progress to Afghanistan, and to do everything we can to avoid civilian casualties. We strongly condemn the Taliban for their brutality in deliberately targeting and using civilians as human shields."

Source: US Department of Defense

Billy Blanks Gets Soldiers Sweaty With a Tae Bo Class at Q-West

kpaul.mallasch — Wed, 20 May 2009 23:33:55 -0700

By Maj. Scott Cooley

CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE Q-WEST, Iraq – Billy Blanks, creator of Tae Bo, and his assistant Melanie Neat, punched and kicked out a one-hour Tae Bo class for approximately 30 participants at the Morale, Welfare and Recreation Center here April 26.

Weather conditions delayed Blanks' arrival at Q-West, but enthusiastic fans waited patiently and were rewarded with some serious stretching exercises and a grueling workout.

Following the workout, Billy led a discussion on personal fitness and the motivation to maintain a regular workout schedule and a healthy lifestyle.

Sgt. 1st Class Brandy Kurtze, from Tacoma, Wash., and currently serving in the 181st Brigade Support Battalion, which runs the Mayor Cell on Q-West, said she was very grateful for the experience.

"The class was better than expected," Kurtze said. "Billy walked us through every exercise and explained the right way and the wrong way to do each work out. The class was very intense and left you feeling that you could do anything. Billy Blanks is very motivational and is alive with life and spirit. I am so glad I had the chance to work out with him."

Staff Sgt. Patricia McCarthy, from Olympia, Wash., and also serving in the 181st BSB had always wanted to go to a Tae Bo class.

"It was an experience of a lifetime," McCarthy said. "Billy Blanks truly sells a product that works. It was an intense and challenging workout from beginning to end. The thirty minute workout had it all, cardiovascular to body sculpting. Ever since I can remember I have wanted to be able to go to Los Angeles and attend one of his classes. I do not believe that there is one workout CD of his that I don't have."

Blanks said he makes the trips to Iraq because Soldiers motivate him.

"I just want to do something for the Troops," Blanks said.

Bridging the Gap: American High School Students Deliver the Goods

kpaul.mallasch — Tue, 19 May 2009 01:38:47 -0700

By Spc. Phillip Adam Turner

BAGHDAD, Iraq – In an effort to give a group of high school students a glimpse into the lives of Iraqis, a Dubuque, Iowa teacher assigned a service project to her students to apply 'real world problem solving solutions' that would benefit the people of the war torn country.

Brenda Foust, a world history teacher at Hemp Stead High School, and her students decided that a focus on education promoted the most, with the common belief that 'knowledge is power.'

"We gathered donated school supplies for the children, feeling that that would help to better educate them and eventually help them effect change in years to come," said committee member and Hemp Stead High School sophomore, Rachel Splinter.

Partnering with the students and faculty of nearby Washington Middle School, the students gathered an abundance of pens, pencils, notebooks and many other educational tools that are far from common place in classrooms throughout Iraq.

"The amount of donations were really no surprise to us; most people are willing to help if it is a good cause, and we knew people would see what we were trying to do and help as much as they could," said Splinter.

Gathering supplies from Washington Middle School and the nearly 1,800 students at Hemp Stead High was only half the battle. The next step would be to find a way to deliver the spoils of their project to those who would benefit the most.

That's where sophomore Tracy Zurcher and her uncle, Master Sgt. Craig Roberts, with Multi-National Division - Baghdad's provost marshal's office, helped build a bridge between American high school students and the Iraqi children.

"Since he was in Iraq, I introduced Mrs. Foust to Craig, and soon our class was exchanging e-mails, and [video chatting] with him. We were learning about Iraq from someone who was actually there and that helped us to give our project a focus," said Zurcher. With [the 1st Cavalry Division] being deployed I agreed to help them out because I saw that it was a good cause and a way for them understand what it is we are trying to do over here," said Roberts, originally from Dubuque.

Soon all the pieces were falling into place. Roberts, having seen this project grow from an idea into a fully fledged humanitarian aid mission, took the next few steps on his own.

"Once I received the supplies I started making connections through the 403rd Civil Affairs Battalion. They set me up with the 2nd Battalion, 112th Infantry Regiment which would ultimately provide the means to deliver these supplies to a community they had a relationship with," said Roberts.

So on May 15, many months of planning and what seemed like 'divine intervention' for Master Sgt. Roberts would finally culminate into a perfect ending to an Iraqi school day.

Roughly 200 students of the Hamichun School in Baghdad gathered just outside their respective classrooms, filling the concrete courtyard with gleeful anticipation and chatter, as Roberts and the Soldiers of the 2nd Bn. 112th Inf. Regt., unloaded box after box of school supplies and mounds of book bags. For the students in Iowa, their hopes were that these children would see that they had not been forgotten.

"This is one of those things where a plan comes together. I had it in my mind that those [Hemp Stead High students] had gone through so much to get that stuff here, that I was going to go that extra mile to get [the donations] out to kids who needed it, before school let out for the summer," Roberts said.

"I am so glad that my students got to see the benefit of all their hard work," said Foust. "I really can't take any of the credit for this; all I did was give them an assignment. They took it, ran with it, and I couldn't be more proud of the results. I am truly amazed."

A simple idea, with simple results; however, for a group of high school sophomores it was a continuation of that old adage that there is good in the world, and it comes from the good nature of people. Many lessons could be learned from such a act of caring, but the most important, for Dubuque sophomore Kaley Rigdon, was a view shared in common with all those who continue to promote peace through the smallest of gestures.

"This project was about trying to help make things better," Rigdon said. "The world is much bigger than just Dubuque, Iowa. Reaching out shows your character, it will take you far in life, and ours led us to being good ambassadors for the world."

U.S. Soldiers Train Iraqi Police on First Aid

kpaul.mallasch — Tue, 19 May 2009 01:29:28 -0700

By Sgt. Joshua Risner
TAJI, Iraq – Iraqi policemen at the Tarmiyah Police Station here, learned some useful techniques in first aid from Soldiers of the 591st Military Police Company, 93rd MP Battalion, 8th MP Brigade, May 16.

The training focused on controlling bleeding from an arm or leg, according to Pfc. Evan Mead, from Londonderry, N.H., a medic with 591st MP Co.

"We trained them up on gauze pads, the [Emergency Trauma Dressing] and the tourniquet," said Pfc. Andrew Van Cleave, an assistant medic with 591st MP Co. "This is their first exposure to [Combat Lifesaver] training."

The IPs listened as Soldiers, with the help of an interpreter, went through the steps of bleeding control. They asked questions testing the Iraqis' knowledge of the material.

"What if the leg is broken?" an IP asks as the 591st Soldiers talk through applying a tourniquet to the leg. "Wouldn't you want to make sure the leg is stabilized?"

"You can tell they're paying close attention when they ask questions like that," explained Van Cleave, from Junction City, Kan. "These guys are on it."

When the Soldiers finished with their instruction, they invited the IPs to come up and get some hands-on training with the materials. One person acted as a casualty while two others treated a "severely bleeding" arm and leg.

"They respond really well," said Van Cleave. "If you tell them to do something, they just do it without asking why or how."

After everyone had gone through the hands-on portion, the Soldiers asked if everyone was satisfied and understood the instruction. They replied with smiles and nods.

Before dismissing their students, Mead left them with some words of wisdom. "We appreciate the chance to come and teach you guys," he said to the assembled IPs. "We hope you will take this training and teach it to your brothers and hopefully, one day, you might save somebody's life by using what you learned today."

The 591st MPs moved out from the Tarmiyah IP Station, leaving a seed of knowledge in their wake. Though it may be a small step, it is still a step in the right direction for the mission of making the Iraqi security forces self-sufficient and able to save a life if needed.

Intelligence Coming From the Ground Up

kpaul.mallasch — Tue, 19 May 2009 01:21:19 -0700

By Jared Sollars

FORWARD OPERATING BASE MAREZ, MOSUL, Iraq — The U.S. Army has begun out fitting units with a new intelligence gathering and distributing system as they prepare for deployment. The 3rd Heavy Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division is spearheading the charge in this new direction of intelligence.

The goal of this new program is to reduce uncertainty of focal points in hot areas and to aid commanders with their decision making based on intelligence. This program is completely flip-flopped from its predecessor in that intelligence is now moving from the troops on the ground up through their commanders. In turn, missions are directed more to the areas where intelligence gathered will be more beneficial.

"This should help the next unit that comes in get an idea of how things are on the ground before they ever even go out [on missions]," said Spc. Andrew Nuxoll, who works in the E. Co. Intelligence Support Team under 3rd Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment

The newly added company sections serve as a filter and analysis center for their companies. They take raw data and information from the field and turn it into intelligence which is then passed up the chain of command to their commander.

"This is a company-based intelligence operation that starts at the platoon level and from there goes up to the company level and so on," said Sgt. Erik Peterson, who works in D. Co. Intelligence Support Team, 1st Bn., 67th Armor Regt. "It's helped us get information quicker and in turn get it out quicker."

Each company has set an intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance plan in motion, which emphasizes networking throughout their area of operations and establishing multiple contacts in that area.

"This program gives troops solid talking points and the ability to connect better with the people in their areas of operation about insurgent activities," said 1st Lt. Aaron Runne, who is over the program at B. Co. Intelligence Support Team in 1st Bn., 67th Armor Regt.

These operations also work toward finding patterns and trends both by enemy and friendly forces. Patterns, as they are discovered, are then analyzed. If a pattern is friendly such as common travel patterns, it is changed. If the pattern is hostile such as improvised explosive device placements, the section works to discover who is behind the placements.

Though the program is still in its infancy, the Soldiers of 3rd Bde. have found it to be a useful tool and are utilizing it to distribute key intelligence.

Combined Task Force Makes First Suspected Pirate Capture

kpaul.mallasch — Thu, 14 May 2009 21:53:55 -0700

ABOARD USS GETTYSBURG AT SEA - Ships from Combined Task Force 151 prevented a piracy attack in the Gulf of Aden, which resulted in the apprehension of more than a dozen suspected pirates aboard an alleged "mothership" on May 13.

The South Korean destroyer ROKS Munmu the Great and guided missile cruiser USS Gettysburg responded to a distress call from the Egyptian-flagged motor vessel Amira, which reported being attacked about 75 nautical miles south of Mukalla, Yemen.

Several assault rifle rounds and a rocket-propelled grenade round struck the Amira, causing little or no damage. A rope was thrown from the skiff in an attempt to board, but the attempt failed and the suspected pirates abandoned their attack.

Gettysburg and Munmu the Great launched their embarked helicopters which flew immediately to Amira's location. During its flight, the SH-60B helicopter assigned to Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron Light 46 located a small boat suspected of serving as a pirate mothership.

A Gettysburg visit, board, search and seizure team boarded the boat along with members of U.S. Coast Guard Legal Detachment 409 and apprehended the suspected pirates after finding eight assault rifles, a rocket-propelled grenade launcher and a rocket-propelled grenade. All 17 of the passengers were brought on board Gettysburg for further questioning.

"This is another clear example of how coordination between the Combined Maritime Forces resulted in the successful disruption of pirate activity," said Royal Navy Commodore Tim Lowe, deputy commander of the Combined Maritime Forces. "It is imperative that all maritime forces continue to synchronize their efforts to deter and disrupt these unlawful and aggressive acts."

Gettysburg and Munmu the Great are operating in support of CTF 151, a multinational task force established to conduct counterpiracy operations under a mission-based mandate throughout the CMF area of responsibility to deter, disrupt and suppress piracy and secure freedom of navigation.

Service Members Enjoy Simple Pleasures in Southern Afghanistan

kpaul.mallasch — Mon, 11 May 2009 19:17:12 -0700

CAMP BARBER, Afghanistan – Sometimes it's the simple pleasures in life that can make a difference when deployed. Service members carrying out their duties in support of counterinsurgency operations aboard Camp Barber, Helmand province, Afghanistan, can now enjoy the fresh smell of coffee and a relaxing lounge to sip a "cup of Joe" at Holy Joe's Café, April 29, 2009.

The Camp Barber café originally opened in March, providing free coffee, hot tea and breakfast snacks to service members and civilians serving at Camp Barber, but the moniker "Holy Joe's" isn't an entirely new name to forward-deployed service members.

The café at Camp Barber derived its name from the Holy Joe's Café project, which was started in 2006 by the First Congregational Church in Wallingford, Conn., as a coffee drive, providing military chaplains in Iraq, Afghanistan and Kuwait the opportunity to further support U.S. service members deployed overseas.

In an effort to support her fellow service members in what she calls "a little piece of home," Navy Lt. Karen J. Rector, the Combat Logistics Battalion 3 chaplain, collected matted flooring, put up camouflage netting for shade, and gathered benches and tables to give coffee and tea-drinking patrons a comfortable and appealing place to take a break. CLB-3 Sgt. Maj. Danny Duvall volunteered a bit of his spare time and artistry, decorating the café's tables and benches with an eclectic holy-Hawaiian-desert-patriotic motif to make things interesting for the patrons as they enjoy their "cup of Joe" or tea.

"Coffee in the morning helps you face the adversities that you're going to face that day," said 1st Lt. Jason D. Ryan, the supply officer assigned to Headquarters Company, CLB-3. "If you get a bad cup of coffee, you know it's going to be a bad day," joked Ryan.

Ryan said his day would be incomplete if he wasn't able to get his cup of coffee and feels it's an important part of his morning.

"Holy Joe's has the best coffee on Camp Barber," Ryan said. "There are some things in Afghanistan that are always tough, but it should never be your first cup of coffee."

Coffee isn't the only sustenance provided at Holy Joe's. The café also provides juices, cereal and cold milk and various breakfast foods to start off the day.

Rector attributes much of the café's success to the donated supplies she receives through the "Adopt-a-Chaplain Program" and the individuals who donate their time and effort to support the troops through the chaplains' services.

Holy Joe's recently held its official grand opening April 20, 2009, announcing its place in the camp and all that it has to offer. Those who participated in the social event were welcomed with a barbeque picnic, refreshments and a raffle of prizes to top the night.

Combat Logistics Battalion 3 is the logistics combat element of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force – Afghanistan whose mission is to conduct counterinsurgency operations, and train and mentor the Afghan national police.

Saving Service Members Bundles of Money

kpaul.mallasch — Mon, 11 May 2009 19:15:33 -0700

Story by Spc. Kiyoshi Freeman

JOINT BASE BALAD, Iraq – Volunteer income tax assistants received certificates of appreciation from Brig. Gen. Michael J. Lally, commanding general, 3d Sustainment Command (Expeditionary), and Air Force Brig. Gen. Brian T. Bishop, commanding general, 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing, here April 29.

Volunteers at the tax center here helped service members and civilian contractors save approximately $1.7 million this tax season.

"This was a resource that's truly appreciated by all the Soldiers," said Lally, whose own tax return was filed at the volunteer tax center. "Each of you [volunteers] is a credit to your own organization and to yourselves."

From Feb. 2 to April 30, 36 volunteers at the tax center processed more than 1,300 tax returns free of charge, saving service members another $140,000 in estimated service and filing fees.

Wearing a shirt with "I survived tax season 2008" emblazoned on the front, Spc. Jaclyn M. Mims, a paralegal specialist from Palmer, Mass., and Air Force Tech. Sgt. Jerol Boyce were the driving force behind the program.

Mims said the pair started in October, taking certification classes and contacting the Internal Revenue Service, which had to approve the program. They scrounged up computers, supplies, even a building to establish operations.

Mims' only previous experience was her volunteer work at a tax center last year.

"I think we topped ourselves," she said. "I think we did a lot more than we thought we could do."

A greater challenge was finding and training volunteers as military tax preparers, and then figuring out how to work around their schedules, Mims said. Some volunteered for the recognition, she admitted, while others did it for the simple satisfaction of helping someone else. One volunteer, a flight surgeon, she said spent two hours a week at the tax center for no other reason than he liked doing taxes.

Even with full-time jobs, Lally said most volunteers worked 12-20 hours a week at the tax center. It was a level of devotion he said impressed him and everyone involved.

"I've made really good friends working here," Mims said, adding that two volunteers were already invited to her wedding this September when they return to the United States.

After Boyce redeployed back to the United States, Mims said she essentially ran the tax center on her own. It was hectic, she said, trying to juggle her job as a paralegal specialist and her responsibilities at the tax center. She received phone calls all day long from volunteers with questions and did the record-keeping on her own.

"It was a little crazy at times, and I ended up getting some anxiety issues in the middle of it," she said with a smile.

Still, between the one-star general and the service members who walked in with boxes of receipts, wondering what they could deduct, Mims said the entire effort was worth it.

"I would do it a million times over if they asked me," she said. "The recognition is cool, but it's the satisfaction in knowing I was a part of something really great here."

Soldier Does His Part in War on Terror

kpaul.mallasch — Tue, 05 May 2009 01:40:25 -0700

By Staff Sgt. David Hopkins

JALALABAD AIR FIELD, Afghanistan -- The Soldiers who man Combat Outpost Lowell near the Pakistan border see combat action almost daily. Army Pfc. Timothy Gustafson is one of these Soldiers and his story of his time at COP Lowell is about survival and brotherhood. However, he will tell you he's just like any other American Soldier, fighting for his country and the Afghan people.

Gustafson, a cavalry scout with 6th Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, has been living and fighting at the remote outpost since early July 2008 and has many stories about what he's done and seen.

The broad-shouldered, battle-worn Soldier leaned back against a stack of sandbags during a much-needed rest at Forward Operating Base Bostic as he explained his first days at COP Lowell.

"On my second day there I spent the night in a C-hut with the finance guys and some KBR employees. I woke up to the sound of gunfire. At first, I didn't know what it was and then bullets were coming through the wood walls. I couldn't believe it was happening," Gustafson said, shaking his head. "I ran through the building to make sure everyone else was getting up. I found a KBR guy sleeping. He must have thought it wasn't real or he's a heavy sleeper. I grabbed him and pulled him up. Right when I lifted him a bullet landed where he was lying. It was very intense."

The day's events seemed a lifetime away from the 22-year-old's hometown of Phoenix, Ariz., where his wife Katheryn waits for him to return at the end of his deployment.

"I miss a lot of things being out at Lowell, but I would have to say I miss my family and friends the most," Gustafson said.

Gustafson enlisted in the Army to take care of his family and have a stable life, but his start in the Army was a little rough.

"I joined the Army in 2006, but was medically discharged from Basic Training after an injury on the Victory Tower," Gustafson said, but he was determined to serve his country and after a year of rehabilitation he was ready to give it another try. He enlisted again in 2007 and that time made it work.

Gustafson worked hard to build himself back up and dedicated himself to serve in the Army and fight. He considers himself a hard worker and feels that's what helps him make it through the hard days on the front lines.

He said he takes comfort in the days where he and his fellow cavalrymen are able to fight off an attack or save someone who was hit in an attack.

Gustafson still isn't sure if the Army is going to be a career for him, but he knows what he wants to do after the Army.

"I just want to get stable when I get out," Gustafson explained. "When I get out I plan to go to college and be an electrician journeyman. I want to start my own business."

Until the day Gustafson gets out of the Army, he said he will continue to work hard and make a difference in the lives of the Afghan people and his brothers in arms.

"I feel we are helping the Afghan people have a better life," Gustafson said, "and it feels good to make a difference. I will keep doing this for the rest of the deployment. It isn't easy, but knowing that my friends and battle buddies are out there makes me do this every day. We are a family out there...brothers."