More GOOD NEWS out of Iraq / SAFE Haven - NO POLITICS [Archive] - Page 19

Loyal American

March 29th, 2008, 9:44 pm

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MND-B Soldiers target criminals; 23 killed
Saturday, 29 March 2008

BAGHDAD – Multi-National Division – Baghdad soldiers engaged and killed 23 criminals in separate engagements in Baghdad March 28.

Soldiers from 2nd BCT, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), killed one criminal in northeastern Baghdad after seeing the individual with a rocket propelled grenade launcher in an alleyway during a patrol.

At approximately 4 p.m., a 3rd BCT, 4th Infantry Division vehicle struck an improvised explosive device in northeastern Baghdad. A number of criminals then fired on the soldiers while they attempted to recover the vehicle. Soldiers spotted and engaged two of the attackers, killing them both.

Iraqi security forces and Coalition soldiers were attacked during the early evening at a checkpoint in northwestern Baghdad. An air weapons team was called in to assist the ground force. The air weapons team fired one hellfire missile from the helicopter, targeting 10 criminals who were armed with RPG launchers and automatic weapons. All 10 were killed in the engagement.

Soldiers from 4th BCT, 1st Infantry Div., were attacked with small arms fire in southern Baghdad while on a combat patrol later in the evening. Soldiers returned fire in self defense, killing nine terrorists.

An hour later, a criminal armed with an RPG launcher attacked soldiers from 2-101 Abn. Div., striking an M1A1 Abrams. Soldiers spotted the terrorist and killed him in an exchange of gun fire.

“Along with our Iraqi security force partners, we are targeting criminals and criminal networks, and those who are choosing to disobey al-Sayyid Moqtada al-Sadr’s ceasefire pledge,” said Col. Allen Batschelet, chief of staff, MND-B. “We will continue to conduct precision operations based on substantial evidence of criminal activity.”

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17914&Itemid=128

GOD BLESS OUR TROOPS! THEY ARE DOING AN AMAZING JOB!!! :flag:

Loyal American

March 29th, 2008, 9:51 pm

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Band of Brothers: The Hill Siblings Reunite in Iraq War Zone
Saturday, 29 March 2008

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AL ASAD — A mechanic with 4th Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion deployed to Iraq, leaving his family behind to serve his country. Little did he know when he got here he would be embraced with the company of his two brothers.

“It was weird seeing them in Iraq, of all places,” said Lance Cpl. Robert A. Hill, a light armored vehicle mechanic with Delta Company, 4th LAR Bn. “I was basically leaving one part of my family to see the rest of my family.”

Delta Company is a reserve unit attached to 2nd LAR Bn., Regimental Combat Team 5, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Army 1st Lt. Josh T. Hill, maintenance platoon commander, 1st Brigade, 82nd Airborne Division, and Lance Cpl. Bryan G. Hill, an armorer with Transportation Support Company, Combat Logistics Battalion 6, 1st Marine Logistics Group, were informed by a phone call from their mother that their brother, Robert, was deploying to Iraq sometime in the spring of 2008.

Josh was aware that his brother, Bryan, was stationed at Al Asad as well. The brothers gathered and drove over to the Arrival/Departure Airfield Control Center to see Robert. They waited 45 minutes to see their brother and the rest of the Marines with Delta Company, 4th LAR Bn., land on the flight line.

"I didn’t care how long I waited; I was excited to be able to see him,” said Bryan. “The reunion meant more because of the place we are in.”

“It’s pretty cool to see my brothers at one place at one time,” said Josh, 24, the oldest of the three. “Not many groups of brothers see each other at the same time across the world in a war zone.”

The Hill brothers grew up in Springfield, Va., a suburb of Washington, D.C. They were raised by their mother, Linda, until one after the other graduated from West Springfield High School every two years starting in 2001.

“Our mom was okay with all of us deployed,” said Josh. “I respect her strength, because it’s not easy sending one kid to war, let alone three kids.”

Robert added, “All three of us being over here is very difficult on her. Everything she has lived for in the past twenty-four years is over here.”

Growing up, each brother was two years older than the other to the month. Josh was always the mentor to his younger brothers.

“Josh was an influence, but he did it by picking on us,” said Bryan.
“It wasn’t picking on; it was conditioning them to be better men,” said Josh in response to the comment.

Josh joined the Army after graduating from East Carolina University in 2005. Robert, 22, joined the Marine Corps Reserve after starting on work and family. Bryan, the youngest at 20, joined the Marine Corps after graduating high school.

According to Robert and Bryan, Josh was a huge influence in their decision to serve their country.

“Josh influenced me in a way to push me into wanting to join the military,” said Robert. “He paved the way for me and my brother.”

Although the two younger brothers didn’t join the same service, Josh said he has a sense of pride when thinking of his brothers.

“It made sense why they joined the Marines; it’s because they wanted to do their own thing instead of do exactly what I did,” said Josh.

“It was nice just seeing them grow up and see them accomplish things so major,” Josh added.

The Hill brothers’ meeting was fulfilling, but short, as Robert left Al Asad Air Base to conduct operations in the western Anbar province of Iraq.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17908&Itemid=1

GOD BLESS YOU AND THANK YOU!!!
http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththththAmericanFlag-Animated--9.gif................http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththththAmericanFlag-Animated--9.gif................http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththththAmericanFlag-Animated--9.gif

Loyal American

March 29th, 2008, 10:25 pm

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Iraqi Army, U.S. Special Forces patrol attacked; 13 criminal fighters killed (Suwayrah)
Saturday, 29 March 2008

BAGHDAD – A patrol consisting of 8th Iraqi Army Division Scouts and U.S. Special Forces Soldiers was attacked by criminal elements in southeastern Suwayrah March 29. Iraqi and U.S. Forces repelled the attack, killing 13 enemy fighters.

Iraqi and U.S. Forces conducted a presence patrol in Suwayrah. During the patrol, an Iraqi woman approached the patrol and told them a criminal member lived in a nearby house. Iraqi and U.S. Forces searched the house, finding nine rocket propelled grenades and criminal propaganda.

Shortly after continuing their patrol, a U.S. SF Soldier identified six armed individuals exiting a cargo truck, posturing to attack the patrol with RPGs.

The U.S. SF Soldier immediately engaged the individuals as Iraqi and U.S. vehicles maneuvered to gain a tactical advantage. At this time, the patrol began to receive small arms and RPG fire from another location.

Iraqi and U.S. Forces continued to maneuver and after a short firefight, neutralized the enemy threat.

Shortly after continuing their patrol, Iraqi and U.S. Forces were again attacked by hostile forces with small arms and RPG fire. The patrol engaged and neutralized the threat.

Approximately 45 minutes later, the patrol received small-arms fire and observed an individual armed with an RPG positioning to attack the patrol. Iraqi and U.S. Forces fired to suppress enemy small arms-fire and the individual with the RPG.

In addition to the 13 enemy fighters killed, two cargo trucks were destroyed.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17918&Itemid=128

MND-B Soldiers kill 9 supporting ISF
Saturday, 29 March 2008

BAGHDAD – Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers supported Iraq Security Forces operations around Sadr City March 28-29.

The two operations resulted in 9 terrorists killed.

During checkpoint inspections at approximately 11 p.m., March 28, militants attacked Soldiers from 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division with small-arms fire and rocket propelled grenades. The Soldiers returned fire and killed seven.

At approximately 1 a.m., Soldiers from 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division identified two roadside bomb emplacers. The Soldiers killed the emplacers in an exchange of gun fire.

“We continue our successful operations to protect the Iraqi citizens with our ISF partners against criminals who conduct violent acts or intent to commit violent acts in violation of al-Sayyid Muqtada al-Sadr’s ceasefire,” said Col. Allen Batschelet, chief of staff for MND-B.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17915&Itemid=128

AWESOME JOB!!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-13.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-13.gif

Loyal American

March 29th, 2008, 10:25 pm

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Iraqi Special Operations Forces engage, kill 22 in Basra
Saturday, 29 March 2008

BAGHDAD – Iraqi Special Operations Forces engaged and killed several criminal fighters in Basra March 29.

The operation was conducted in support of the Government of Iraq’s efforts to secure and stabilize the city.

The ISOF conducted the operation in a known criminal stronghold in western Basra to disrupt criminal activities and capture criminal leaders.

En route to their target, the ISOF were engaged multiple times by small arms and rocket propelled grenades. Upon arrival at the target, and under fire, the ground assault force entered a building and killed four enemy fighters. Ground forces cleared the structure, finding two women and five children who were unharmed.

While at the target location, ISOF came under enemy fire from ground level and roof-top locations. They killed two enemy fighters on an apartment roof.

While engaged with hostile forces, ISOF and a supporting U.S. Special Forces team identified additional armed criminal elements in the area.

A supporting Coalition forces aircraft identified enemy forces on three roof-tops and engaged with precision gunfire after being cleared by ground forces. Initial reports indicate 16 criminal fighters were killed.

While exiting the area, ISOF were under enemy small arms and RPG attacks.

One vehicle was also struck by an improvised explosive device causing minor damage to the vehicle.

Two ISOF Soldiers were wounded during the operation.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17919&Itemid=128

ISOF AND USSF KICKIN' SOME BEHIND!

OUTSTANDING JOB! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-13.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-13.gif

Stuball

March 30th, 2008, 12:07 am

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LOYAL AMERICAN:flag:

Loyal American

March 30th, 2008, 12:10 am

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LOYAL AMERICAN:flag:Well this is a surprise! THANK YOU Stuball! :D

p.s. Wait a minute, how did you know? It's not on the front page??? http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/eusa_think.gif

Stuball

March 30th, 2008, 12:19 am

Well this is a surprise! THANK YOU Stuball! :D

p.s. Wait a minute, how did you know? It's not on the front page???
It is if you live in The State with the coolest Govenors....... New York

Loyal American

March 30th, 2008, 12:38 am

It is if you live in The State with the coolest Govenors....... New York
AHHHH, got it!

BUT I have to remind you this is a no politics thread! :))

:mrgreen:

Loyal American

March 30th, 2008, 2:12 am

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MND-B Soldiers kill 11 in Baghdad
Saturday, 29 March 2008

BAGHDAD – Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers engaged and killed 11 criminals in separate engagements in Baghdad March 29.

An MND-B aerial weapons team killed a criminal after a ground patrol was attacked by SAF in eastern Baghdad at approximately noon.

In another incident, Soldiers from 2nd BCT, 101st Airborne Division, killed a criminal fighter after the patrol observed the combatant emplacing a mortar tube in northwestern Baghdad at approximately noon.

At approximately 1:30 p.m., Soldiers from 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, killed a criminal after the patrol was struck by an improvised explosive device and small-arms fire in eastern Baghdad.

MND-B Soldiers from 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, killed six criminals after their patrol was attacked by small-arms fire and rocket-propelled grenades in eastern Baghdad at approximately 4 p.m.

In an earlier event Soldiers from 4th BCT, 10th Mtn., Div., killed two criminals in eastern Baghdad after their patrol was attacked by small-arms fire at approximately 3:30 pm.

“Along with our Iraqi Security Force partners, we are targeting individual criminal networks and anyone involved in violent crimes against the Iraqi people,” said Col. Allen Batschelet, chief of staff, MND-B. “We will continue to conduct precision operations based on substantial evidence of criminal activity.”

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17921&Itemid=21

TERRIFIC WORK TROOPS!

THANK YOU! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-13.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-13.gif

Loyal American

March 30th, 2008, 2:19 am

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Iraqi Army, MND-C Soldiers discover EFP cache (Mahmudiyah)
Saturday, 29 March 2008

CAMP STRIKER, Iraq – The Iraqi Army and Multi-National Division – Center Soldiers uncovered a weapons cache in Mahmudiyah March 28.

The cache was found during a routine cordon and search mission by Soldiers from the 25th Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division and Soldiers from 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault).

The cache consisted of more than 15 explosively formed projectiles, hundreds of rounds, Iraqi National Police uniforms and rifles.

The cache also included more than 100 various EFP components, detonation cord, fuses and a bag of homemade explosives.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17923&Itemid=21

ISF, CF discover six caches (Salah ad Din)
Saturday, 29 March 2008

TIKRIT, Iraq – Iraqi and Coalition force Soldiers discovered six weapons caches across northern Iraq March 28.

Five were discovered in Salah ad Din and one in Diyala province.

“As more caches are discovered, violence will continue to drop and the safer the Iraqi people will be,” said Maj. Dan Meyers, spokesperson for Multi-National Division -North.

The ISF and CF have been finding caches from various tips. Many tips have come from local sources like the Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration or DDR program.

In the past two days, nearly 20 caches have been found from tips provided by the DDR program.

“These recent discoveries show that this program is working,” Meyers said.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17922&Itemid=21

GRRREAT JOB!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-13.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-13.gif

free2B

March 30th, 2008, 3:02 am

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MND-B Soldiers kill 11 in Baghdad
Saturday, 29 March 2008

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17921&Itemid=21

TERRIFIC WORK TROOPS!

THANK YOU! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-13.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-13.gif

great news loyal, the terrorists are on the run, or where they belong,:clap: under the ground

CatholicDefender

March 30th, 2008, 3:07 am

AHHHH, got it!

BUT I have to remind you this is a no politics thread! :))

:mrgreen:

To support the troops is a political point of view? That's wild!

Loyal American

March 30th, 2008, 12:05 pm

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Air weapons team engages, kills 12 criminals
Sunday, 30 March 2008

BAGHDAD – Multi-National Division – Baghdad soldiers killed 12 criminals after a small arms and rocket-propelled grenade attack in northern Baghdad March 30.

At approximately 1 a.m., a 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division patrol was attacked, and Soldiers pursued the criminals as they fled.

An air weapons team arrived on scene to provide support. After positively identifying the attackers, the air weapons team engaged and killed the 12 individuals.

“We are exercising great effort to protect the people of Baghdad,” said Lt. Col. Steve Stover, MND-B spokesman. “We are only targeting criminals and those acting outside the rule of law. We will continue to defend ourselves and the citizens of Baghdad.”

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17936&Itemid=128

MND-B Soldiers kill 2 during routine operation
Sunday, 30 March 2008

BAGHDAD – Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers killed two criminals during operations March 29.

After discovering an improvised explosive device in Baghdad’s Istaqlal district, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division soldiers came under small arms fire from individuals in a vehicle.

The Soldiers returned fire at the vehicle, killing two criminals and disabling the vehicle.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17937&Itemid=128

Alleged car bomber, al-Qaeda suspects captured
Sunday, 30 March 2008

BAGHDAD – Coalition forces captured two wanted individuals and ten additional suspected al-Qaeda in Iraq terrorists during operations Sunday in northern Iraq.

Coalition forces used intelligence gained from an operation Mar. 24 to capture an alleged close associate of al-Qaeda in Iraq leaders and four additional suspects in Mosul.

Farther south, Coalition forces captured a suspected bombing cell leader and two alleged associates in Bayji. The suspected cell leader is also believed to have carried out attacks against Coalition forces and assassinations. Four additional suspected terrorists were detained in Hawija when Coalition forces targeted a car-bomb attack coordinator working in the area.

"Iraqi and Coalition force operations continue to capture and kill al-Qaeda in Iraq terrorists and there is still a tough fight ahead," said Maj. Winfield Danielson, MNF-I spokesman. "Across the country, the Iraqi people are rejecting al-Qaeda, and we are helping them realize a future free from terrorists' indiscriminate violence and corrupt ideology."

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17938&Itemid=128

26 DIRTBAGS OUT OF COMMISSION!

HOOAH, ROCK ON TROOPS!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-13.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-13.gif

Loyal American

March 30th, 2008, 12:23 pm

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Water Treatment Facility Reopens, Clean Water Flows
Sunday, 30 March 2008

CAMP STRIKER — A ribbon-cutting ceremony March 26 marked the opening of the Mushada Water Treatment Plant, north of Mahmudiyah, a facility that will benefit thousands of area residents.

Col. Muhammad, commander of 3rd Battalion, 25th Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division, and Col. Dominic Caraccilo, commander of 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), attended the ceremony and spoke to visitors about the event.

Following the speeches, Muhammad cut the ribbon to open the plant and those present were given a guided tour of the facility, including the pumps, water tanks and administrative buildings.

The plant restoration took five weeks to complete and was paid for by Commander’s Emergency Response Program funds.

More than 30 workers and 20 skilled tradesmen worked together to complete the renovations. They replaced pumps, cleaned and sealed water tanks and fixed the electrical wiring inside the plant. Workers restored the buildings, did landscaping and installed two 5,000-gallon fuel tanks capable of powering the entire facility for six months.

CLICK on photo to read more:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/080330_fea2_med.jpg (http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17931&Itemid=1)

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-13.gif..........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-13.gif..........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-13.gif..........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-13.gif..........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-13.gif..........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-13.gif..........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-13.gif

Loyal American

March 30th, 2008, 2:06 pm

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First Combat Test: Soldiers Field New Improved Outer Tactical Vests
Sunday, 30 March 2008

BAGHDAD — After stomping around for a few days with the new Improved Outer Tactical Vest (IOTV), 4th Infantry Division Soldiers reported both pros and cons about the new tactical gear.

The new vest has several design differences and some added features, which keep the Soldiers in mind when they're in times of trouble.

The first noticeable difference in the vest design is the way Soldiers don the IOTV. Rather than slipping into it like a jacket, as with the Interceptor Body Armor, they lift it over their head and pull down, which sometimes requires another person to help get the vest on properly.

Soldiers can also detach the fasteners on the wearer's left shoulder, and slip into the vest from the side.

Another key design change is the addition of a quick release lanyard that reduces the vest to its component pieces, which allows the wearer to get out of the vest easily in case of an emergency situation.

CLICK on photo to read more:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/080330_sod_med.jpg (http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17929&Itemid=1)

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Loyal American

March 30th, 2008, 3:51 pm

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththth02paper-13.gif .....Amazing story!

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Soldiers and U.S. soldiers load an Iraqi teenager injured by an improvised explosive device onto a medical evacuation helicopter near Kirkuk, Iraq, March 27, 2008. The soldiers are assigned to the 10th Mountain Division's Company C, 2nd Battalion, 1st Aviation Brigade.

Soldiers, Airmen Save Iraqi Teen Injured by Bomb

WASHINGTON, March 30, 2008 – On his way home from working in his family’s field near Kirkuk, Iraq, Rahmey didn’t see the hidden improvised explosive device until it was too late.

Staggering for home after the blast, the 13-year-old Iraqi boy had no way to know that his life would be saved by the quick, selfless actions of U.S. Army soldiers and U.S. Air Force airmen March 27.

“I heard and saw the explosion from my window,” said Arif Muter Jarew, Rahmey’s father.

It wasn’t long before his son stumbled in with shrapnel wounds riddling his knee, leg and chest.

“I was panicked, there was blood coming from his mouth,” Jarew said. “My son was dying. He had blood everywhere.”

The hospital was miles away and the desperate father didn’t think his vehicle would make it. With his son in his arms, he ran out to the street to flag down passing motorists for help.

“Then I saw a convoy of American soldiers,” he said. Jarew was a little wary of asking for help from coalition forces. With his dying son in his arms, he only hesitated a moment – his son’s life was at stake.

“We saw some Iraqis waving us to stop and one was cradling a kid,” said Pfc. Jeffrey Parson of the 10th Mountain Division’s 1st Brigade.

Parson and Pvt. Justin Avila, the patrol's medic, began treating what they initially thought were gunshot wounds.

“There was blood coming from the kid’s mouth and his wounds, so we treated the
bleeding first,” Parson said.

The patrol radioed Forward Operating Base McHenry in the Hawijah district of Tamim province. A medical evacuation helicopter arrived a few precious minutes after receiving the call to transport Rahmey and his father to the FOB. After medics stabilized Rahmey’s condition, he was transported along with his father to the medical facility in Kirkuk, Iraq.

U.S. Army and Air Force medics treated Rahmey for shrapnel wounds at the Freedom Hospital.

“He’s a very lucky boy,” said Air Force Capt. Gabriel Rulewicz, a military surgeon. “He’ll need some surgery to remove the shrapnel, but we’ve stabilized him for transport to a hospital in Kirkuk.”

The Air Force surgeon credits Rahmey’s survival to the quick reaction by everyone involved. “It is a perfect ending to what could have quickly resulted in the opposite,” he said.

But to one Iraqi father, this ending was more than perfect.

“I did not know how caring U.S. soldiers are. I could not believe how well they treated my son and me,” Jarew said. “I am so thankful to everyone who saved my son’s life.”

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/scr_032708-A-7182N-004a.jpg
U.S. Army and Air Force doctors on Forward Operating Base Warrior in Kirkuk, Iraq, treat an Iraqi teenager injured by an improvised explosive device March 27, 2008.

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/scr_032708-A-7182N-007a.jpg
Arif Muter Jarew, left, hears about his son's treatment through an interpreter on Forward Operating Base Warrior, Kirkuk, Iraq, March 27, 2008.

http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=49414

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thmilitary-supporttroops-1.jpg.........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/th1.gif

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gif

Loyal American

March 30th, 2008, 4:08 pm

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MND-B Soldiers kill 8 criminals in separate operations
Sunday, 30 March 2008

BAGHDAD – Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers killed eight criminals in separate operations late March 29 and early March 30.

While on patrol in northeast Baghdad, Soldiers from 1st Squadron, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment encountered and engaged a three-man rocket-propelled grenade team, killing all three.

MND-B Soldiers later came under fire by a three-man gun team on a nearby rooftop. The soldiers returned fire in self-defense and killed the three criminals.

While manning a checkpoint in Kadhamiyah, soldiers from 1st Squadron, 75th Cavalry Regiment were attacked and called in a an Apache air weapons team for support. The air weapons team fired two Hellfire missiles and killed two.

“These criminals show how little they regard the lives of innocent Iraqis,” said Col. Allen Batschelet, chief of staff, MND-B. “We will continue, along with our Iraqi Security Force partners, to target individual criminals, criminal networks and anyone involved in violent crimes ignoring al-Sayyid Muqtada al-Sadr’s ceasefire pledge.”

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17950&Itemid=128

OUTSTANDING! THANK YOU, TROOPS http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-14.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gif

Loyal American

March 30th, 2008, 4:26 pm

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MND-N captures key criminal in Diyala
Sunday, 30 March 2008

BAQUBA, Iraq – Soldiers with the 4th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division captured a key criminal leader in Diyala province near Sadiyah, Iraq, March 29.

The suspect is believed to be the leader of a criminal cell operating in the Khalis area and is accused of numerous improvised explosive attacks specifically targeting local Iraqis,, and Iraqi and Coalition forces. He is also believed to an explosives expert who leads more than 300 criminals.

Another key criminal was also detained during the operation.

The second detainee is suspected of posing as an Iraqi policeman and has been implicated in the murder of 20 Iraqis and the burning of their homes.

Two other individuals were also detained.

“(These) are dangerous individuals who have been at the center of criminal activity in the area for some time now, and we are actively looking for their associates,” said Maj. Mike Garcia, MND-N spokesman. “ The people of Iraq will not tolerate criminal activity. We will continue to work with local citizens and Iraqi security forces to disrupt criminal networks and bring these individuals to justice.”

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17949&Itemid=128

4 SLIME DIRTBAGS OFF THE STREETS!

SWEET JOB, TROOPS!

THANK YOU! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-14.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gif

Loyal American

March 30th, 2008, 5:57 pm

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MND-B Soldiers kill 25 criminals
Sunday, 30 March 2008

BAGHDAD – Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers killed 25 criminals in eastern Baghdad March 30.

Soldiers from 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, were traveling in a combat patrol to investigate a possible point of origin for an indirect fire attack when their Mine Resistant Ambush Protected vehicle was struck by an improvised explosive device.

Immediately after the IED attack, Soldiers discovered a second IED in the area and attempted to secure it.

While attempting to secure the IED, they were attacked with indirect fire, rocket propelled grenades and small-arms fire from a house in the vicinity of the IED strike.

An aerial weapons team was called in to support the Soldiers on the ground. A mortar team was spotted on the roof of the house where the attack was coming from, and the AWT defended the Soldiers on the ground and killed 25 criminals.

One Soldier was injured in the IED attack.

“We will defend ourselves when attacked by armed criminals,” said Lt. Col. Steven Stover, MND-B spokesman. “We are not the aggressors, but we will defend ourselves and the Iraqi people with all resources available to us.”

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17955&Itemid=21

25 DIRTBAGS DOWN AND OUT!

EXCELLENT JOB, TROOPS!

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-14.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gif

MAY THE SOLDIER FULLY RECOVER! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/eusa_pray.gif

AEOakley

March 30th, 2008, 6:59 pm

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Nicholas Pata, now an Army private first class, is a New York City native who serves as a radio-telephone operator in Iraq. He was a volunteer firefighter in the Rockland County Fire Department prior to joining the Army. Pata assisted in the rescue efforts after the attacks on Sept. 11, 2001. Courtesy photo.

Firefighter Trades New York for Iraq

Sunday, 30 March 2008
By Staff Sgt. J.B. Jaso III
25th Infantry Division

CAMP TAJI — On Sept. 11, 2001, Nicholas Pata was a volunteer firefighter in Rockland County, N.Y., who assisted with rescue efforts after terrorists attacked the World Trade Center in Manhattan.

Pata, 25, no longer fights fires; he now is an Army private first class and fights terrorism as a Multi-National Division - Baghdad radio-telephone operator, assigned to the 25th Infantry Division’s Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment “Wolfhounds,” 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team.

“After 9/11, seeing and losing friends that were firefighters, I felt I owed it to them to jump into the fight,” Pata said. “The time I spent at ground zero made up my mind.”

Pata joined the Army in January 2007. He completed basic combat training at Fort Benning, Ga., and then was assigned to Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. He joined the Wolfhounds in June.

Less than two months later, Pata left Hawaii with his unit to conduct training at the National Training Center, in Fort Irwin, Calif. There, he used his medical skills gained as a fireman and emergency medical technician to save the life of a fellow Soldier who was suffering from a severe heat injury. As a result of his actions and performance during the training rotation, he was awarded the Army Achievement Medal.

After completing training in California, Pata took pre-deployment leave to relax before a 15-month deployment to Iraq. His leave was not all relaxation. He suited up and went back to work as a firefighter. Pata answered the last alarm minutes before he had to return from leave.

Greg Tobin, a fellow Rockland County volunteer firefighter, said Pata told his fellow firefighters to keep his bunk warm and to leave his gear alone until he returned. “Ever since he has been gone, his gear is exactly like he left it,” Tobin said. “No one (has) dared to touch it -- not out of fear, but rather out of respect for the man who wore it.”

When Pata left in October, he had to say goodbye not only to his biological family, but also to his other family, his fellow firefighters, Tobin said.

“His passion as a firefighter to help his community is what Nick lives for,” he added. “He is a unique person that has risen to the position of captain in the fire department. He feared no fire; he was always the first into a fire and the last one out, and always making sure he watched over the men he led. He is a brave man, very respected, and very missed by us at home. The community will be safer again when he comes home.”

While in Iraq, Pata assists his unit and the Iraqi security forces in keeping Taji safe. His experience under fire has helped him be a calm presence here.

“Pata always maintains his composure under pressure, regardless of the situation,” said Army Maj. Patrick Aspland, a Fort Ann, N.Y., native who is the executive officer for 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment.

Army Gen. David H. Petraeus, commander of Multi-National Force - Iraq, recognized Pata on March 12 for his exemplary performance here.

“Your great work is bringing new hope for the Iraqi people,” Petraeus said during the award ceremony. “Keep up the terrific work.”

Army Master Sgt. Timothy Jackson, a native of Dryden, N.Y., who serves as the operations sergeant major for 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, said Pata is one of the best radio-telephone operators he’s ever known. “Pata is a great asset to the (battalion),” he said.

Pata has about a year left in Iraq before going back to fight a different kind of fire. He said he looks forward to going back to Hawaii and eventually returning to New York to continue to serve the people there.

:clap: :flag: :clap:

Found here: http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17932&Itemid=1

:clap: :flag: :clap:
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, L.A.!!

Loyal American

March 31st, 2008, 12:05 am

Thanks for the B-day wishes AEO! :D I'm not having anymore birthdays now, staying this age! Should of decided that when I was 39! :lol:

Hey, check out this baby, what a cutie! Click on the [more photos] and see additional photos:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/bundle.jpg

3/28/2008

LITTLEST PATIENT

U.S. Marine Petty Officer 2nd Class Jasmin S. Enciso holds one of the younger patients seen during a cooperative medical engagement in Kabani, Iraq, March 18, 2008. Enciso is assigned to 1st Marine Logistics Group. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Tyler B. Barstow

| More Photos (http://www.defenselink.mil/PhotoEssays/PhotoEssaySS.aspx?ID=640) |

Loyal American

March 31st, 2008, 12:06 am

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththth02paper-14.gif ..... Read slowly, lot's going on in this report!

ISF, CF kill 8 criminals, detain 2 others in pursuit to secure streets of Baghdad
Sunday, 30 March 2008

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers killed eight criminals and detained two in separate incidents in Baghdad March 30.

At 6 a.m., Soldiers from 2nd BCT, 101st Airborne Division, were at a checkpoint in the Kadamiyah district when they reported receiving small-arms fire coming from the north. The Soldiers were approached by criminals on foot, and an aerial weapons team was called in to fire on the criminals. The aerial strike killed three criminals and injured one criminal.

At 7 a.m., Soldiers from 4th BCT, 10th Mountain Division, detained a criminal in the Karkh district based on suspicion of being highly involved with smuggling explosively formed penetrators and with ties to the fighting in Basra.

At 11:15 a.m., Soldiers from 4th BCT, 10th Mtn. Div. engaged and killed a criminal who was emplacing an improvised explosive device in New Baghdad.

At approximately noon, Soldiers from 1st BN., 2nd Stryker Cav. Regt. reported encountering a complex attack involving small-arms fire and attacks from rocket-propelled grenades while patrolling in eastern Baghdad. The Soldiers engaged and killed three criminals.

At 1 p.m., Soldiers from 22nd Bn., 6th Iraqi Army Div. arrested an Iraqi man after he was searched at a security checkpoint in Kadamiyah. The man was found to be carrying a large amount of illegal ammunition.

At 3:40 p.m., Soldiers from 4th BCT, 10th Mtn. Div. reported receiving five mortar rounds at Joint Security Station al-Khansa in New Baghdad. The Soldiers fired three rounds to counter the attack, then a sniper from the unit engaged and killed one of the criminals. The Soldiers requested an air strike, which destroyed the criminals’ mortar tube.

“We will be relentless in our pursuit of those breaking the law,” said Lt. Col. Steve Stover, MND-B spokesman. “If these criminals continue to attack innocent Iraqis and Coalition forces, we will pursue them and bring them to justice.”

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17956&Itemid=21

OUTSTANDING!

THANK YOU TROOPS! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-14.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gif

Loyal American

March 31st, 2008, 12:43 am

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Cavalry unit responds to insurgent activity (Jisr Diyala)
Sunday, 30 March 2008

BAGHDAD – Multi-National Division – Center Soldiers from 3rd Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment and Iraqi Security Forces combated an increase in violence in and around Jisr Diyala, a town east of Baghdad, March 26-28.

On March 26, 3-1st Cav. Regt. Soldiers were engaged by small-arms fire from insurgents. During the days following, enemy activity increased, leading to AH-64 Apache attack helicopters from the 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade engaging five insurgents in the early hours of March 28.

During the three-day period, nine insurgents were killed, two were wounded and another 23 were detained by Iraqi National Police.

“We have seen a significant increase in enemy activity in the last two days in Jisr Diyala,” said Maj. David Guthrie, from Hampton, Va., operations officer for 3-1st Cav. Regt. “Two days ago, we had patrols involved in sustained small-arms and rocket-propelled grenade engagements.”

Guthrie was involved in a firefight with insurgents on the north side of Jisr Diyala while on a combat patrol March 27.

“We were stopping to talk with the men at Sons of Iraq and National Police checkpoints,” he said. “We had received reports that insurgents were driving around with weapons telling the men at the checkpoints to throw down their arms and desert their posts or face being attacked.”

Caught in a cross-fire, Guthrie and his patrol called for assistance. Shortly after, U.S. Army attack helicopters and fighter aircraft were assisting the patrol, while the NP cleared the insurgents from an adjacent palm grove, Guthrie said.

In a separate incident during the early-morning hours of March 28, five men were observed acting suspiciously in the city. Attack aviation pilots conducted a further reconnaissance and determined hostile intent. The attack helicopters engaged the men, killing the five suspects.

“During the three days of fighting in Jisr Diyala, the ISF and Sons of Iraq held their ground and took the fight to the enemy,” said Maj. Dave Fivecoat, from Delaware, Ohio, the 3rd HBCT operations officer. “I’ve been encouraged by our ISF and SOI partners’ determination to stop the violence.”

The 3-1st Cav. Regt., is assigned to the 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, from Fort Benning, Ga., and has been deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom since March 2007.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17959&Itemid=128

GREAT JOB BY ALL, THANK YOU!!!
http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-14.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gif

Loyal American

March 31st, 2008, 12:49 am

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ISF, advised by U.S. Special Operations Forces, detain 10 suspected AQI in separate operations
Sunday, 30 March 2008

BALAD, Iraq – Iraqi Security Forces, advised by U.S. Special Forces, detained 10 suspected al Qaeda in Iraq members in separate operations March 29.

East of Fallujah, Scouts from 2nd Brigade, 1st Iraqi Army Division, detained one suspected AQI leader. This suspect is believed to be responsible for improvised explosive device attacks in March and June of 2007, which resulted in the deaths of several Coalition force members.

Recent intelligence reports have linked him and his terrorist network to several kidnappings and murders in the al-Bassam area.

In the village of Makhiat, near Mosul, 2nd Iraqi Army Division Soldiers detained four suspected AQI members and held five additional suspects for questioning. They are suspected of violent acts on Iraqi civilians, and Iraqi and Coalition forces.

They are also suspected of the kidnapping, torture and murder of innocent Iraqi civilians; suicide and improvised explosive attacks against Iraqi and Coalition forces; as well as video recording violent attacks for AQI propaganda.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17958&Itemid=128

10 SLIME DIRTBAGS OFF THE STREETS!

GREAT JOB ISF AND USSF! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-14.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gif

CrusaderFrank

March 31st, 2008, 8:45 am

The IDF better get back with the Program or the American trained ISF will soon be the best fighting force in the Middle East

Loyal American

March 31st, 2008, 9:59 am

The IDF better get back with the Program or the American trained ISF will soon be the best fighting force in the Middle East
They are doing a good job and I think they've come a long way! Look at this, they are determined to stop the dirtbags and protect their people!

Iraqi Policeman killed preventing car bomb attempt on SOI leader (Tikrit)
Monday, 31 March 2008

TIKRIT, Iraq – An Iraqi Policeman was killed and two Sons of Iraq group members were injured while attempting to foil a suicide car bomb targeting an SOI leader’s house in a densely populated area in the northern Iraqi city March 30.

According to Coalition forces in Siniyah, the vehicle detonated as the men were attempting to deny movement to the house by engaging the vehicle with small arms-fire.

The wounded were transported to a Coalition force hospital for treatment.
“There is no way of knowing how many lives were saved by these fearless men,” said Lt. Col. Peter Wilhelm, commander of the 1st Battalion, 327th Infantry Regiment. “Iraqis who are tired of the bloodshed in this country should rally around their example of bravery.”

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17961&Itemid=21

GREAT HEART AND DETERMINATION!

MAY THE IP REST IN PEACE AND THE TWO SOI RECOVER FULLY FROM THEIR INJURIES! :pray:

Loyal American

March 31st, 2008, 10:00 am

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Iraqi Army, MND-B Soldiers kill 7, detain 4 criminals
Monday, 31 March 2008

BAGHDAD – Iraqi Army and Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers engaged and killed 7 criminals in separate engagements March 30.

At approximately 12:10 p.m., Soldiers from 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, were conducting a route clearing operation when the vehicle they were traveling in was struck by an improvised explosive device in eastern Baghdad.

After the IED strike, Soldiers were attacked by small-arms fire as they secured the damaged vehicles and prepared to move. Soldiers returned fire and killed five criminals. No Soldiers were injured.

Two other vehicles were also struck by IEDs within ten minutes of the first strike.

At approximately 6:45 p.m., Iraqi Army soldiers from 7th Brigade, 1st Iraqi Army Division were attacked by small-arms fire in southeastern Baghdad. The Soldiers retuned fire and killed two criminals and detained four others.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17962&Itemid=21

WOW, HOPE ALL THE GOOD GUYS ARE OK!

11 DIRTBAGS OUT OF THE PICTURE!

GREAT JOB IA AND CF! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-14.gif......http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gif

Loyal American

March 31st, 2008, 10:54 am

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththth02paper-14.gif .....Gotta put this out, he's a fellow Hoosier! :hug:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/lrs_080309-A-5616W-123.jpg
Army Pvt. Derk Hayes, a Peru, Ind., native, who serves in Multinational Division Baghdad with Company C, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, receives a commander’s coin for excellence March 9, 2008, from Army Lt. Col. Richard “Flip” Wilson, commander of 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, at Camp Taji, Iraq.

Soldier Writes New Chapter in Family History

CAMP TAJI, Iraq, March 31, 2008 – As some 19-year-olds are going to college, hanging out with friends and beginning their adult life, one Multinational Division Baghdad soldier is beginning his adulthood in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Army Pvt. Derk Hayes, a Peru, Ind., native, is the youngest soldier in his unit, the 25th Infantry Division’s Company C, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team.

From a very young age, the soldier’s mother said, Hayes knew he wanted to be a soldier.

“He always said that he was going into the Army,” Candace Hayes said. She remembers him saying that when he was 6 or 7 years old. By following through on that dream, Hayes opens a new chapter in the line of his family’s service.

Hayes’ great-uncle, Virgil Hayes, served in the Army during World War II and passed away in 1995, when Hayes was 6. “The last time I saw my Uncle Virgil, I told him I would join the Army,” Hayes said.

His grandfathers also served. His paternal grandfather, Lyle Hayes, is a Pearl Harbor veteran who was awarded the Purple Heart for injuries he suffered in Japan’s Dec. 7, 1941, attack on military forces in Hawaii. His maternal grandfather, “Hoot” Gibson, retired after serving 30 years in the Air Force.

After attending basic combat training at Fort Benning, Ga., Hayes was assigned to the 27th Infantry Regiment “Wolfhounds” at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, where he spent three weeks before deploying to Iraq.

“I knew it was going to happen, but not that soon,” Hayes said. “Telling my mom was hard. I care about her more than anything.”

His mom was at work when she received his text message and phone call notifying her that he was deploying in weeks.

“I broke down and just started to cry,” the soldier’s mother said. “I just prayed, prayed and prayed; I was so scared.”

Almost four months into her son’s deployment, his mother admits it’s been tough for her. “I’m doing better and praying for him every day,” she said. “Some days I cry, but he reassures me that he’s fine.”

Hayes said he communicates with his mom as much as possible. Candace Hayes said she also talks with other military mothers in a social network. She is a member of the Web site www.milclub.net, which is a place for troops and their families to communicate and share their experiences. She communicates with other mothers who have children deployed, and said “they are helping me get through this.”

In his first four months in Iraq, Hayes has been on more than 30 patrols, where he helps to provide security for the brigade’s embedded provincial reconstruction team as it travels throughout northwestern Baghdad’s Taji neighborhood.

Hayes received his 25th Infantry Division combat patch March 9 at a ceremony here. The ceremony was a “time to pause and recollect on the gains that we are making,” said Army Lt. Col. Richard “Flip” Wilson, commander of 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment.

After presenting Hayes with his combat patch, Wilson asked the soldier to join him in front of the company formation, where he presented him with a commander’s coin.

“I felt great. Getting a coin inspired me to do better,” Hayes said. “I’ve never seen (a coin) before, and I was really amazed. I’m keeping it in my pocket below my heart.”

Candace Hayes said the military has helped her son make the transition into adulthood.

“The military changed him for the better,” she said upon hearing that the battalion commander had recognized her son. “I’m really, really proud of him.”

http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=49419

THANK YOU PVT HAYES FOR YOUR SERVICE TO OUR COUNTRY! :flag:

AND CANDACE HAYES, I AM PROUD OF YOUR SON TOO! I WILL JOIN YOU IN YOUR DAILY PRAYERS! :pray:

rhet 2

March 31st, 2008, 11:11 am

Loyal American

March 31st, 2008, 11:54 am

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththth02paper-14.gif .....Nice little update on Noor today!

Sight to the Blind: Soldiers Hope to Help Iraqi Girl See a Brighter Future
Monday, 31 March 2008

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FORWARD OPERATING BASE KALSU — Her hands run across his hand, her fingers explore his features. She asks her father: Is he fat or skinny? Tall or short? She is trying to learn about the man she cannot see, the one who strives to end the mystery surrounding him and the world around her.

First Lt. Michael Kendrick, platoon leader of 2nd Platoon, Company D, 1st Battalion, 30th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, said it is his goal to replace the mental picture young Noor Taha Najee has of her father with the actual image.

Noor, a 5-year-old girl who lives in al Buaytha, has been blind since birth, a condition caused by poorly-developed corneas, said her father Taha.
It is a problem which runs in the family. Taha's brother, Mustafa, also suffers from the birth defect, one that prevents the eyes from registering anything other than light sensitivity.

Although the condition is genetic, it is one that can be fixed through surgery. Kendrick, a native of Phoenix, Ariz., and his unit have been working closely with doctors to try to get something done for the family.

"To have her see her family, her brothers, to put a face to the voice, it would be a blessing," Taha said of the opportunity to help give sight to his daughter and brother.

The Eye Defects Research Foundation, a nongovernmental organization based in Los Angeles, is already trying to schedule a surgery for the girl.

On March 14, the Soldiers took Noor and her uncle to the 86th Combat Support Hospital in Baghdad to get an evaluation done on the two, which showed a higher potential for success with Noor.

"We're on standby now, waiting for a doctor in L.A.," Kendrick said.

He said they are now trying to find a local Iraqi doctor who would be willing to travel with Noor and her family to California. An Iraqi doctor is needed who could be shown the necessary follow-up care.

Such a gift would seem appropriate for a girl who is described as very generous and giving by her father.

"She's different from many other kids," Taha said. "She's always sharing. She'll give you anything."

It is a personality trait which has endeared her to the 2nd Platoon Soldiers.

"We've taken a real vested interest in the people here," Kendrick said, adding his Soldiers spend a lot of time on the ground, interacting with residents. "We empathize with the people. It pays dividends winning the hearts and minds. It keeps things quiet."

Noor has developed quite an attachment to Kendrick, Taha said.

"She likes to sit by him, and is always asking me about him and loves it when I tell her stories about him," he said. "She's only like that with Kendrick."

As a father of two young girls himself – Presley, 3, and Parker, 1, – Kendrick said he knows the importance of family and providing for them.

While she may not be able to see what the Soldiers are doing for her, Taha said Noor can definitely sense the good will of Kendrick's platoon.

"Love begins in the mind, not the eyes," Taha said.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17963&Itemid=46

The below link is the first story posted on Noor and there are more photos of her father, her and her siblings! In case you missed it!:

http://forums.hannity.com/showpost.php?p=23957371&postcount=4381

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thmilitary-supporttroops-1.jpg ...... http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/th1.gif

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gif

rhet 2

March 31st, 2008, 12:06 pm

AEOakley

March 31st, 2008, 12:56 pm

YES! This is EXACTLY what responsible membership in the community of nations is all about:

Great Americans helping Great Iraqis to SEE a better tomorrow than their ancestors have known for better than a 1000 years!

I shall pray for Noor and her family and her doctors both in CA and in Iraq -- and for the incredible Americans who care so very much and give everything they've got in them to do the decent and responsible American thing!

Amen! A precious story!

Here are new videos from DVIDSHUB -- "FROM THE FRONTLINE"

This edition features stories on Operation Spider Web and its mission in Aramayah, Iraq, as well as joint security patrols in Subayhat, where they patrol the streets and meet with locals. Part 1 of 4. Provided by Regimental Combat Team 1.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rfrOt_A7_JA -- part 1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G-ZOxH_5XxA -- part 2
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2lgvMPINHlc -- part 3
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VAca5x5Q6LU -- part 4

:clap: :clap: :clap:

Loyal American

March 31st, 2008, 2:28 pm

Amen! A precious story!

Here are new videos from DVIDSHUB -- "FROM THE FRONTLINE"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rfrOt_A7_JA -- part 1
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G-ZOxH_5XxA -- part 2
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2lgvMPINHlc -- part 3
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VAca5x5Q6LU -- part 4

:clap: :clap: :clap:

I watched all four videos AEO! It was great to see our troops out doin' their thing. It was especially nice to see, at the end of part 2, the report by our troops on how the ICW is doing, sound like they are really making a difference in that community! :clap:

Loyal American

March 31st, 2008, 2:35 pm

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Coalition forces destroy 24 weapons caches near Baqouba Forces also uncover 12 booby-trapped homes, bunkers, hideouts
Monday, 31 March 2008

BAGHDAD – Coalition forces killed three terrorists affiliated with al-Qaeda in Iraq and uncovered two dozen weapons caches during a five-day operation targeting bomb-making cells in the Diyala River Valley.

Coalition forces discovered 12 house-borne improvised explosive devices (HBIED) and anti-aircraft weapons while patrolling an area near Khan Bani Sa’ad Mar. 23 to 28 that had been used as a safe area by terrorists.

During the operation, one terrorist was observed hiding in an area of reeds. The assault force repeatedly instructed the individual to come out but he refused to comply with the ground forces’ instructions. Perceiving hostile intent, the ground force engaged the terrorist and killed him. Another suspect, hiding in a similar area, was detained when he followed instructions to surrender.

Surveillance teams observed two armed men digging in the road.

Intelligence indicated the men were digging up a weapons cache and they were removing weaponry from the cache when, perceiving hostile intent, Coalition forces engaged and killed the terrorists. Two other suspected terrorists were wounded in the gun battle and were detained, treated on site and then taken to military medical facilities for further treatment.

Residents of the area told the ground force that al-Qaeda in Iraq had forced Shia families out of their homes and advised other locals to stay out of the houses. Other residents reported family members had been murdered within the previous 24 hours. Residents also guided Coalition forces to the body of an alleged terrorist and said many more bodies were buried in the area.

The HBIEDs had each marked on the outside with a bloody handprint or other markings. Coalition forces moved residents to a safe area and called in supporting fixed-wing aircraft to destroy the booby-trapped houses.

Hidden near one fighting position, Coalition forces found anti-aircraft weapons, ammunition and vehicles with mounts for the weapons. In another area, terrorists had hidden vehicles prepared as car bombs and placed two IEDs along the road.

Coalition forces also discovered weapons caches, bunkers and hidden fighting positions, some of which were reinforced with concrete. The caches contained rockets, mortar rounds and launching devices, bomb-making materials, weapons and ammunition. The ground force also found several Iraqi police and military uniforms, body armor, license plates and other documents. A Coalition explosives team safely destroyed the caches on site.

“This is a tough fight. Although al-Qaeda in Iraq has been hurt, they remain lethal,” said MNF-I spokesman Maj. Brad Leighton. “Despite recent gains against them, much remains to be done.”

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17980&Itemid=21

OUTSTANDING!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-14.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gif

Loyal American

March 31st, 2008, 2:54 pm

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Two terrorists killed, five suspects detained in operations against al-Qaeda in Iraq (Baghdad)
Monday, 31 March 2008

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition forces killed two terrorists and detained five suspected terrorists during operations Sunday targeting the al-Qaeda in Iraq leadership network around Baghdad.

During an operation in Western Baghdad, Coalition forces captured an alleged associate of AQI southern belt leadership.

North of Baghdad, Coalition forces followed up on information from an individual captured during an operation Mar. 29 and targeted additional associates of AQI senior leaders. Upon arriving at the location, ground forces encountered two men armed with AK-47s behind cover and, perceiving hostile intent, engaged the armed men, killing them. After further inspection of the area, the ground force found and detained four other suspected terrorists.

“We are attacking al-Qaeda in Iraq networks to diminish their ability to attack innocent people who are striving for the progress of their country,” said Lt. Michael Street, MNF-I spokesman. “Iraqis have made it clear that terrorism has no place in their future.”

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17981&Itemid=128

OUR TROOPS, SNATCHIN' UP THE DIRTBAGS! :cool:

THANKS TROOPS, GREAT JOB!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-14.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gif

Loyal American

March 31st, 2008, 4:02 pm

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A teacher hands out school supplies during the grand opening of an Adwaniyah, Iraq, middle school, March 26, 2008. Some of the supplies were donated by American students to coalition forces for distribution to Iraqi students.

Iraqi Officials Open Middle School, Health Clinic

FORWARD OPRATING BASE KALSU, Iraq, March 31, 2008 – Citizens who once were afraid to leave their homes because terrorists were among them freely gathered March 26 to celebrate the grand opening of a middle school and health clinic in Adwaniyah, Iraq.

Much of the work was done using Commander’s Emergency Response Program funds, and although coalition forces assisted in rebuilding the school and clinic, the Iraqi government was key to the projects’ success, officials said.

The Iraqi government has recognized the school and clinic, officials added, and will keep teachers and medical professionals working at each location.

One soldier at Patrol Base Dolby, near Adwaniyah, is pleased to see the Iraqis taking charge of their community and said educating Iraq’s children is essential to rebuilding the country.

“They will eventually inherit this country,” said 2nd Lt. Steven Kim, a platoon leader in the 3rd Infantry Division’s Troop B, 6th Squadron, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team. “Giving the kids an education will help them learn how to make their country better.”

An Iraqi Health Ministry doctor said the clinic will offer Adwaniyah residents basic medical care, such as preventive medicine, vaccinations and maternal care, and also will treat minor dental problems and basic illnesses.

“We all want to do what we can to address some of the medical needs in Adwaniyah,” Dr. Saud Abdullah said. “This clinic will help Adwaniyah.” For major surgeries and traumas, residents still will need to go to hospitals in Mahmudiyah and Baghdad.

Happiness at improving their city was apparent as citizens smiled and shook hands with U.S. and Iraqi soldiers and Iraqi government officials.

Kim said it was a good day for the troops.

“You get to know the people,” the Los Angeles native said. “I’m happy for them; it’s good to see their community improve.”

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An Adwaniyah, Iraq, middle school student receives school supplies during the school’s grand opening March 26, 2008. Some of the supplies were donated by American students for distribution to Iraqi students. The remodeled school will hold traditional and religious classes.

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Col. Thair, commander of 6th Battalion, 25th Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division, and Iraqi Health Ministry leaders cut the ribbon at the Adwaniyah, Iraq, health clinic, March 26, 2008. The clinic was opened using Commander’s Emergency Relief Program funds and now will be administered by the Iraqi Health Ministry.

http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=49421

THANK YOU, TROOPS! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gif

Loyal American

March 31st, 2008, 4:42 pm

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththth02paper-14.gif..... Be still, my heart! :eek:

Sons of Iraq foil kidnapping attempt (Diylala)
Monday, 31 March 2008

TIKRIT, Iraq – The Abna al-Iraq, or Sons of Iraq, prevented the kidnapping of two women and four children in Diyala, March 30.

The SOI in the village of Abu Harab fought off four vehicles full of al Qaeda in Iraq members after the victims had been apprehended. They recovered all the kidnapped victims.

“The quick reaction of these local heroes, the village’s Sons of Iraq, is yet another example of the strength and determination of Iraqis to fight for the peace they deserve,” said Maj. Dan Meyers Multi-National Division North’s spokesman.

No one was killed or injured in the incident.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17989&Itemid=21

WOW, THANK YOU SOI!

AWESOME, AWESOME JOB!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-14.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gif

rhet 2

March 31st, 2008, 4:44 pm

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththth02paper-14.gif..... Be still, my heart! :eek:

Sons of Iraq foil kidnapping attempt (Diylala)
Monday, 31 March 2008

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17989&Itemid=21

WOW, THANK YOU SOI!

AWESOME, AWESOME JOB!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-14.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gif

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/iraq_now.gif

I think I'm really starting to LIKE this flag!

Way to go, Iraqis! You're turning out to be friends worth kieeping! :clap:

Loyal American

March 31st, 2008, 6:52 pm

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MND-N Soldiers discover mortar cache (Ta’ Mim)
Monday, 31 March 2008

TIKRIT, Iraq – Working off a tip from an Iraqi citizen, Multi-National Division – North Soldiers discovered a weapons cache in Ta’ Mim province March 31.

The cache consisted of more than 100 mortar rounds northeast of Kirkuk.

The cache was destroyed by a controlled detonation.

“This find is testament to the fact that the true citizens of Iraq are standing up to make their nation a better place,” said Maj. Dan Meyers, a Multi-National Division spokesman.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17990&Itemid=21

Sons of Iraq turn in weapons cache to Iraqi Army (Lutifiyah)
Monday, 31 March 2008

CAMP STRIKER, Iraq – Iraqi Army Soldiers received a tip from an Abna al-Iraq, or Sons of Iraq, leader about the location of a weapons cache in Abu Osage, northwest of Lutifiyah, March 30.

An SOI member told Sheikh Ammar Haza, the Abu Osage SOI leader, of the cache’s whereabouts. Haza then informed Multi-National Division – Center Soldiers of 25th Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division, who retrieved the cache and brought it back to their unit headquarters in Lutifiyah.

The cache included propellant charges, mortar rounds, rifle grenades, flares and bags of TNT.

After collecting the cache, the Iraqi Army Soldiers notified their U.S. counterparts in 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), to have the cache destroyed.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17994&Itemid=21

Iraqi Army Soldiers turn in large weapons cache (Qarghouli)
Monday, 31 March 2008

CAMP STRIKER, Iraq – The Iraqi Army turned in a significant weapons cache to Multi-National Division – Center Soldiers at Patrol Base Yusifyah, Iraq, March 30.

Soldiers from 25th Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division delivered the cache to 187th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) after it was discovered in Qarghouli Village.

The cache included Katusha rockets, complete improvised explosive devices, mortar and artillery rounds of various sizes, 40 pounds of unknown bulk explosives, anti-aircraft rounds, gas tanks, and several hundred small-arms rounds and accessories.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17993&Itemid=21

GREAT TIPS, GREAT TEAM WORK AND AS A RESULT A BUNCH OF DIRTBAG CACHES ARE GOIN' UP IN SMOKE! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-14.gif....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gif

Loyal American

March 31st, 2008, 9:45 pm

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Ordnance Marines Help Put Bombs on Target
Monday, 31 March 2008

AL ASAD — The current role of an F/A-18 Hornet in Operation Iraqi Freedom is close air support and the pilots of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 115, the ‘Silver Eagles’, must always be prepared to deliver a lethal payload on enemy targets. Providing the firepower to the aircraft is the role of the aviation ordnance technicians of both VMFA-115 and Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 16 (reinforced).

The process of getting the rounds down range begins at the MALS-16 aviation ordnance section, where MALS-31 augments from Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort stand by with their MALS-16 peers, ready to support the ordnance needs of VMFA-115.

“We provide support for the F/A-18 squadrons,” said Staff Sergeant Timothy Dorril, an aviation ordnance systems technician with MALS-31, the ‘Stingers.’ “We provide any ordnance and equipment they may need. We also maintain, repair and regularly inspect the bomb racks, gun systems and missile launchers used by the squadrons.”

Read more, CLICK on below photo:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/080331_fea1_med.jpg (http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17964&Itemid=110)

Iraqi Forces Show Strength Through Unilateral Exercise
Monday, 31 March 2008

HADITHA — An Iraqi police and provisional security force emergency response exercise was conducted March 26, in the Haditha Triad.

The exercise conducted by the IP and PSF, the second operation of its kind in the Haditha Triad, was executed to better prepare the Iraqi security forces for future unexpected events.

“This exercise is very important to make the people confident in the IP and PSF,” said Iraqi Col. Muhammad Shafur, the PSF battalion commander, through an interpreter. “It showed the people that the police are strong and serious about taking actions against the insurgents.”

“We have to be prepared and ready in case insurgents attack here,” said Iraqi police Col. Faruq Hardan, the Haditha Triad IP chief.

Read more, CLICK on photo:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/080331_fea3_med.jpg (http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17967&Itemid=110)

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gif.........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gif.........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gif.........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gif.........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gif.........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gif.........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gif

Loyal American

March 31st, 2008, 9:46 pm

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MND-B Soldiers kill criminals, hand over suspects to Iraqi Army (Baghdad)
Monday, 31 March 2008

BAGHDAD – Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers engaged a criminal rocket-propelled grenade team in the New Baghdad province of eastern Baghdad at approximately 4 p.m. March 31.

Reports indicate one criminal was killed and three were detained.

Soldiers from 4th Battalion, 64th Armor Regiment, engaged the criminals with small-arms fire. They detained three suspects at the scene and held them for Iraqi Army soldiers to take in to custody and question. The IA found seven assault rifles while questioning the suspected criminals. No IA or MND-B Soldiers were killed or injured during the incident.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18001&Itemid=128

Coalition forces detain three individuals connected to recent EFP attack (Musayyib)
Monday, 31 March 2008

CAMP VICTORY, Iraq – Coalition forces detained three individuals March 31 in Musayyib who are believed to be connected to a recent explosively formed projectile attack on Coalition forces.

The three suspects are being held for questioning in connection to the attack which occurred in the area of Abu Jassim March 23.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17999&Itemid=128

Iraqi Army finds large munitions cache in truck (Hashmiyah)
Monday, 31 March 2008

FORWARD OPERATING BASE KALSU, Iraq – Iraqi Army Soldiers found a large munitions cache inside a truck in Hashmiyah, Iraq, March 30.

The cache contained 23 anti-tank mines, three crates of approximately 40 pounds of explosives, three crates of pellet-shaped explosives, 15 81 mm mortars, two 120 mm mortars, 1,500 DSHKA rounds, one can of 120 mm mortar fuses, 10 explosively formed projectile housings, 10 EFP discs ranging from 4 to 12 inches, one complete EFP - 6 inches in diameter, and three grain bags full of EFP rings, tubes and back covers.

The Iraqi Army discovered the cache during intelligence-driven operations and searches throughout the day, said 1st Lt. Ryan Lawson, leadership engagement team leader and personal security detachment platoon leader with the 31st Military Transition Team, 4th Brigade Special Troops Battalion, 3rd Infantry Division.

The intelligence led them to the area, though not specifically to the cache.

“It is a big find for the Iraqi Army,” Lawson said. “They have continued for the past five to seven days going after (criminals) quite intensively, and this is the culmination of what they’ve been doing, and I think it’s really going to set (criminals) back in the Hillah and Hashmiyah areas for quite awhile.”

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18000&Itemid=128

HOOAH!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gif

Loyal American

March 31st, 2008, 10:34 pm

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Haji Wahab, district chief, and Dr. Zamai, district health officer, cut the ribbon to mark the opening of a new medical clinic that will serve about 23,000 people in the Khakrez district of Afghanistan’s Kandahar province, March 26, 2008.

New, Refurbished Facilities Open in Afghanistan Province

KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Afghanistan, March 31, 2008 – Afghan government officials held opening ceremonies for a new medical clinic, district center and refurbished school March 26 in the Khakrez district of Afghanistan’s Kandahar province.

Coalition forces who facilitated the development of these projects also were in attendance.

Haji Wahab, Khakrez district chief, and Dr. Zamai, district health officer, presided over both ceremonies. The district chief and local government officials performed the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new medical clinic, which will serve about 23,000 people.

“This new facility will help to accommodate more patients,” Zamai said.

The clinic opened its doors to offer free medical treatment to local citizens. Zamai and coalition medics treated about 50 patients on opening day. Coalition forces also provided medical supplies to support continued operations. Zamai said he will continue to work through Kandahar health officials to get all the equipment needed to have the clinic 100 percent operational.

“The people were very pleased to have these facilities built, especially the clinic. It also provided jobs to several local nationals,” a coalition civil affairs officer said.

After finishing the ceremony at the clinic, the Afghan government leaders moved to the new Khakrez district center to conduct its inauguration. The center will serve as the official district facility to conduct civil matters and provides a direct link to provincial leaders.

The district chief said the people are pleased with the refurbishing of the school, located in the Zaylabad village, and he noted that they want to continue supporting the government. Wahab said the government has improved its response to the needs of Afghanistan’s people, and he stressed the need for a road network from Khakrez to Kandahar to help the local economy increase both jobs and accessibility to markets.

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Assisted by coalition medics, Dr. Zamai, district health officer, treats patients after cutting the ribbon on the new Khakrez health clinic in Afghanistan’s Kandahar province, March 26, 2008.

http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=49420

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gif

Loyal American

April 1st, 2008, 12:15 am

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IA, CF kill 3 AQI, destroy bunker near Baqouba
Monday, 31 March 2008

TIKRIT, Iraq – Multi-National Division – North Soldiers killed three enemy personnel after locating a weapon cache and an al-Qaeda in Iraq bunker in Bojima, near Baqouba, Iraq, March 30.

During a joint clearing operation, Iraqi Army Soldiers began taking small arms fire.

A Coalition air weapons team spotted the armed personnel fleeing from the contact location and engaged the individuals, killing three and wounding a fourth.

Soldiers from the Iraqi Army’s 5th Division and MND-N Soldiers of 4th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division, from Fort Lewis, Wash., destroyed one heavy fortified bunker, two 82 mm mortar base plates, one 60 mm mortar base plate, and a 60 mm mortar tripod. Two propane tanks and a fire extinguisher, suspected of containing homemade explosives, were also destroyed.

“Destroying the bunker will further degrade al-Qaeda in Iraq’s ability to conduct offensive and supply operations,” said 1st Lt. Colin Lebeau, assistant intelligence officer, 2-23 Infantry.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18010&Itemid=21

SNATCHIN' UP DIRTBAGS AND MAKIN' THEIR CACHES GO POOF!

GOTTA LOVE IT! ROCK ON IA AND CF! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-14.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gif

Loyal American

April 1st, 2008, 9:25 am

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Five wanted individuals, six others detained in Coalition operations
Tuesday, 01 April 2008

BAGHDAD – Coalition forces detained eleven suspected terrorists using information from previous operations to target al-Qaeda in Iraq terrorists in two of the country’s major cities Monday and today.

Monday in Mosul, Coalition forces targeted a suspected terrorist allegedly involved in the al-Qaeda in Iraq – or AQI – propaganda network and smuggling operations. When the ground force arrived at the scene, the wanted individual turned himself in and was detained.

Coalition forces followed with two more operations in Mosul today. In one, the ground force captured an alleged close associate of senior AQI leaders in the area. In another mission, information from an operation Dec. 10 identified a wanted individual, believed to facilitate the movement of foreign terrorists in the area. The wanted man and four additional suspected terrorists were detained.

Coalition forces conducted two operations this morning around Baghdad. Information from an operation Mar. 24 led Coalition forces to an area northwest of the city, where they captured an alleged car-bombing cell leader and two other suspects. During a precision raid in the city, Coalition forces captured the alleged leader of AQI in the South Karkh neighborhood. His predecessor was detained during an operation Feb. 17 (see MNF-I press release A080217c, “Coalition forces target weapons facilitation networks; two killed, 12 detained,” dated Feb. 17, 2008).

“The Iraqi people are turning against al-Qaeda and are supporting the fight against terrorism,” said Maj. Winfield Danielson, MNF-I spokesman. “Iraqi and Coalition forces continue to target the al-Qaeda in Iraq networks that are responsible for indiscriminate violence against innocent civilians.”

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18013&Itemid=128

To see Feb 17th news release, mentioned in above quoted, click on below link:

Coalition forces targets weapons facilitation networks; two killed, 12 detained

http://forums.hannity.com/showpost.php?p=21863581&postcount=4042

GREAT JOB TROOPS!

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-14.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gif

Loyal American

April 1st, 2008, 10:23 am

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Iraqi Army Brigade unilateral operation nets al-Qaeda in Iraq, sizeable cache
Tuesday, 01 April 2008

KIRKUK, Iraq – The 15th Iraqi Army Brigade detained 12 enemy personnel during an intelligence-driven operation in Hafriyah, southeast of Kirkuk, Iraq, March 31.

During an IA brigade unilateral operation, Iraqi Army soldiers conducted a cordon and search to capture or kill the Al Qaeda in Iraq cell responsible for the March 23 attack on 3rd Battalion, 15th Iraqi Army Brigade, 4th Iraqi Army Division.

The 15th Iraqi Army Brigade also discovered a cache during the operation that contained 400 30mm rounds, 83 57mm rockets, seven propane tanks, six blocks of C-4, 25 250-pound bombs and five 130mm projectiles as well as numerous small arms weapons and bomb-making materials.

“The safety of the Iraqi people depends on how fast CF and IA find these caches and thus far they have proven very efficient and effective at doing so,” said Maj. Dan Meyers, a U.S. military spokesman in northern Iraq.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18027&Itemid=21

SWEET JOB IA AND CF!

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-14.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gif

Loyal American

April 1st, 2008, 11:20 am

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6-8 Cav. Regt. Holds First Combined Medical Engagement in Busayefi
Tuesday, 01 April 2008

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FORWARD OPERATING BASE KALSU — Working with Iraqi civilian and U.S. military medical personnel, Coalition forces in Busayefi hosted a Combined Medical Engagement March 29.

“We just came into this area and we’re trying to build a relationship with the people,” said 2nd Lt. Josh Duke, medical platoon leader, 6th Squadron, 8th Cavalry Regiment.

More than 260 Busayefi residents, including 115 children, were treated at the makeshift health clinic for aches, pains, rashes, nausea and other minor illnesses. They were seen by two Iraqi civilian doctors or one of two U.S. Army doctors.

Busayefi is an area once dominated by al-Qaeda in Iraq; roads were littered with improvised explosive devices that made travel to larger communities with medical facilities difficult.

In late December, Coalition and Iraqi Army forces began clearing the area of AQI and other insurgents, and started an Abna al-Iraq or Sons of Iraq program.

Security in the area continues to improve with the SOI and Coalition presence.

It had been years since some of the residents had seen a doctor. One man said he hadn’t seen a doctor in 10 years, and was grateful for the medical aid.

“Not only do we try and help them with their illnesses, we also try and identify the overall health of the area,” said Duke, from Walhalla, S.C. “We can also identify if there is a person in need of serious medical help.”

A medic from Company A, 415th Civil Affairs Battalion, currently attached to 2nd Brigade Combat Team, said the CME helps give civil affairs teams an overall health assessment of the area.

“We can learn about the health and welfare of the children, as well as the families and the area,” said Sgt. Charles Howell, from Louisville, Ky. “This also lets the people know that we do care about them.”

Howell said the first step in rebuilding Iraq is developing a strong relationship with the community. These CMEs are a way to strengthen ties between Coalition forces and local citizens.

“We’re all here for one common goal, and that is to make Iraq better,” Howell said.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18031&Itemid=1

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gif

AEOakley

April 1st, 2008, 11:56 am

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Calif., native 1st Lt. Casey Zimmerman of Company C, 3rdBattalion, 187th Infantry Regiment, hands out footballs at a school in Mullah Fayad March 27. All the items were donated by the family and community of Sgt. Nathan Barnes, who served in the area and was killed in Rushdi Mullah July 17. U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Tony M. Lindback, 3rd BCT, 101st Abn. Div.

Fallen Soldier’s Family Continues Mission of Love for Iraqi Children
Tuesday, 01 April 2008
By Staff Sgt. Tony M. Lindback
3rd BCT, 101st Abn. Div. (AASLT)

PATROL BASE YUSIFIYAH — Whoever said violence begets more violence never met the family of Sgt. Nathan Barnes.

American Fork, Utah, native Sgt. Nathan Barnes, a Soldier with 4th Battalion, 31st Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, was killed in Rushdi Mullah, Iraq, when his unit came under attack by small-arms fire July 17.

Rather than hold bitterness toward the people of a foreign land where their son died, Barnes’ family is embracing them. Barnes often sent home photos of children in the areas he served. His father, Kevin, said Nathan truly loved the Iraqi children.

Nathan’s love for those children inspired his father and other residents of American Fork to collect enough donated items to fill a 40-foot shipping container. Sewing machines, book bags, newborn kits, personal hygiene items, food, toys, children and women’s clothing, school supplies and even wheelchairs were donated to residents in and around Rushdi Mullah and Yusifiyah, places Barnes did most of his service in Iraq.

Rushdi Mullah, where Barnes was killed, is one of the communities now supported by Rakkasan Soldiers of 3rd Battalion, 187th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault). The Rakkasans took on the task of distributing the items once the shipping container arrived in Iraq.

Company C, 3-187th Inf. Regt., distributed some of the gifts at a school in Mullah Fayad, an impoverished Yusifiyah community.

Santa Barbara, Calif., native 1st Lt. Casey Zimmerman, who helped hand out the donations at the school, wanted everyone to know the source of the aid.

“I made a point at the beginning to convey who Nathan Barnes was, how he died, and what kind of loving family and country he belonged to,” Zimmerman said. “I bet we saw over 1,500 men, women, and children – mostly children.”

The generosity of the Barnes family and the American Fork community led to a similar address in Rushdi Mullah by Brig. Gen. Ali Jassim Muhammad Hassen Al Frejee, commander of the 25th Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division.

“A Soldier who came from thousands of miles away and was killed here – his family spends money to rebuild this area,” Ali said. “We have to respect that.”

Capt. Clifford Kazmarek, commander of Company B, 3-187th Inf. Regt., said the experience was remarkable and humbling.

“I have just the greatest amount of respect for that family for doing this, and I know that the people here truly appreciate it,” Kazmarek said.

The citizens received most items with a smile and without hesitation. But there was one gift that had many children puzzled.

“The Frisbee befuddled them,” said Pittsburgh native Capt. Michael Starz, commander of Co. C, 3-187th Inf. Regt. “They didn’t quite grasp the concept. They thought it was a serving plate so we had to engage with the kids for a few throws until they got the idea. In the end, though, they still said, ‘Where’s the football?’”

There were many footballs – soccer balls to Americans – handed out as well.

Thousands of Iraqis from Rushdi Mullah and Mullah Fayad benefited from the generosity.

“I never imagined a family – American or otherwise – could provide unmitigated charity to the people of a foreign town in which their son was killed,” Zimmerman said. “The Barnes family and those who have contributed to their noble foundation are true testaments to America's values.”

:flag: :flag: :flag:

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18029&Itemid=1

Loyal American

April 1st, 2008, 1:19 pm

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Sons of Iraq turn over suicide belt to MND-C Soldiers (North Babil)
Tuesday, 01 April 2008

BAGHDAD – Members of the Abna al-Iraq, or Sons of Iraq, recovered and turned in a suicide belt to Multi-National Division – Center Soldiers in the North Babil area of Iraq March 25.

MND-C Soldiers of 4th Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, stationed at Patrol Base Kelsey, spoke with the local residents who found the belt and immediately called an explosive ordnance disposal team.

The find came after several reports of a possible suicide vest in Hanaswa, a neighboring region. Reports claimed members of al-Qaeda in Iraq were planning to detonate the suicide vest once a proper carrier was found.

The SOI who found the belt said it came from Hanaswa, confirming the recent information.

“The find is really an affirmation of the success we’ve experienced over the last couple months with security in our (area of operation),” said 1st Lt. Jon Cheatwood, a platoon leader with the Division. “It’s more or less proof of the fact that citizens are now more concerned about their future and security.”

The suicide belt appeared to be in working condition. It consisted of homemade explosives and was packed with hundreds of ball bearings for collateral effects.
In the last several months, the SOI have turned in hundreds of unexploded ordnance and improvised explosive device-related materials.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18034&Itemid=21

NO DOUBT MANY LIVES WERE SAVED!

THANK YOU SOI!!!http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-14.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gif

Loyal American

April 1st, 2008, 1:24 pm

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Iraqi Army Leads Push to Restore Security in Mahmudiyah
Tuesday, 01 April 2008

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BAGHDAD — Iraqi Security Forces are taking the lead in securing the city of Mahmudiyah against criminals.

Iraqi Army soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 25th Brigade, 6th IA Division are securing the city’s neighborhoods with support from Red Knight Rakkasans of 3rd Battalion, 320th Field Artillery, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault).

This effort, which began March 27, has already proven successful. A cordon and search resulted in the discovery of a significant weapons cache in the Qadasiya Apartments March 28.

The cache included 17 explosively-formed projectiles (EFP), 192 DSHKA rounds, Iraqi National Police uniforms and 18 assault rifles, more than 100 EFP components, a demolition charge, detonation cord, fuses and a bag of homemade explosives.

“At this point, it has been a very impressive operation on both the Iraqi and Coalition fronts,” said Lt. Col. William Zemp, commander of 3-320th FA. “Reports say that the EFP IED (improvised explosive device) materials were to be moved into the city of Mahmudiyah.”

The IA has detained nearly 200 individuals for questioning in an effort to curb the violence and criminal activity.

“You have to be proud of the progress being made so far,” said Col. Dominic Caraccilo, 3rd BCT, 101 Abn. Div. (AASLT) commander.

Brig Gen. Ali Jassim Muhammad Hassen Al Frejee, commander of the 25/6 IA Division said removal of criminal groups is key to the continued security of the Mahmudiyah Qada.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18032&Itemid=1

AWESOME!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gif

Loyal American

April 1st, 2008, 3:05 pm

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththth02paper-14.gif .... Is it time to eat yet? ;)

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Cooks from Task Force Pacemaker, deployed from Fort Lewis Wash., prepare lunch for soldiers at the Reception, Staging, Onward Movements and Integration dining facility at Forward Operating Base Sharana, Afghanistan, March 4,

Army Cooks in Afghanistan Provide a Taste of Home

FORWARD OPERATING BASE SHARANA, Afghanistan, April 1, 2008 – Army cooks from Task Force Pacemaker in Afghanistan are providing their own unique touch and a taste of home with each hot meal they serve to soldiers throughout Regional Command East.

The Task Force Pacemaker Headquarters Support Company cooks, deployed from Fort Lewis, Wash., work throughout RC-East, often in remote areas for extended durations.

“Our cooks use the Army-standard recipes as a guide, but as soon as a new cook learns those standards, we show them how to customize the recipe, and this is what makes it a traditional homemade taste,” said Army Staff Sgt. Melanie Scott, lead cook at the Reception, Staging, Onward Movement and Integration dining facility here. “Our weekly barbecues are the most loved meals by the soldiers.”

Scott, a Grosse Ile, Mich., native, has a staff of eight military cooks and 16 Afghans who work on midnight and day shifts.

“Transportation has been a challenge, getting supplies to these remote locations,” Scott said. “KBR and other contractors do not support these locations for security reasons.

“Army cooks are more than capable and prepared for these kinds of missions,” Scott said. “During the winter and in the rainy season, it is especially hard for supplies to get to these areas.”

Army Pvt. Christopher Henderson, a Beech Grove, Ind., native, studied the culinary arts before joining the Army. “I like to know that someone enjoys the food I prepare,” he said. “Those compliments make my day.”

Henderson has been cooking for two years. Army Spc. Michele Maximova, a 70th Engineers cook attached to Task Force Pacemaker, has 13 years of previous experience as a chef.

“I love feeding soldiers,” the Cleveland native said. “The biggest challenge is the lack of products available in the theater of operations. We have to improvise with food; for example we have to use one type of stew beef and use it for six different varieties. I love being an Army cook.”

Army Maj. James DeLapp, a Barrington, Ill., native and Task Force Pacemaker executive officer said the dining facilities run by the Army cooks here rival the contracted dining facilities.

“The cooks take more time in preparing the food and adding their personal touches,” DeLapp said. “Soldiers and civilians walk across the FOB to enjoy their meals and wait in line when they would not have to at other contracted dining facilities.”

The Pacemaker cooks established dining facilities at new FOBs throughout Afghanistan such as FOB Logar, Combat Outpost Herrera, FOB Kushmond and Khyr Kot Castle.

These Army cooks continue to provide more than just the essential food rations needed for survival; they also provide a taste of home during deployment.

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Army Spc. Michele Maximova, Task Force Pacemaker, adds different spices to make bread rolls more appetizing for lunch at the Reception, Staging, Onward Movements and Integration dining facility on Forward Operating Base Sharana, Afghanistan, March 4, 2008.

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Army Spc. Guadalupe Luciano, serving with Task Force Pacemaker and deployed from Fort Lewis, Wash., prepares water for cooking lunch at the Reception, Staging, Onward Movements and Integration dining facility at Forward Operating Base Sharana, Afghanistan, March 4, 2008. Photo by Capt. Kenya V. Saenz, USA

http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=49437

EVERYBODY LOVES A GOOD COOK, THANK YOU TROOPS!http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-14.gif......http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gif

Loyal American

April 1st, 2008, 4:36 pm

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Hillah Special Weapons and Tactics unit detain 20 suspected smugglers in Basra
Tuesday, 01 April 2008

BAGHDAD – A Hillah Special Weapons and Tactics unit, advised by U.S. Special Forces, detained 20 suspected vehicle smugglers in Basra April 1.

Hillah ISWAT conducted the operation, under the direction of the Government of Iraq, to disrupt the largest smuggling organization in Basra.

During the operation, ISWAT detained 20 persons suspected of smuggling vehicles into the port city and recovered two illegal sedans, various small arms and ammunition, and $262,000 in U.S. currency. Additionally, two boats used for smuggling were destroyed.

“The ISF continue to conduct deliberate operations against criminals to restore a rule of law,” said Col. Bill Buckner, MNC-I spokesman.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18036&Itemid=21

NICE GOIN' ISWAT AND USSF! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththclap3-28.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gif

Loyal American

April 1st, 2008, 5:43 pm

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Coalition Forces Provide Assistance to Iraqi Security Forces in Kut
Tuesday, 01 April 2008

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Coalition forces provided more than 2,000 meals and 1,000 bottles of water to al Kut Iraqi policemen March 28-29.

Because of the security situation and an imposed curfew, grocery stores and other food outlets were closed, said Sgt. 1st Class Herbert Tulip, senior operations noncommissioned officer for 511th Military Police Company, from Fort Drum, N.Y. The IPs, who were quelling violence in the city, contacted Tulip for aid in the form of water and meals.

“This is the first time they requested this from us,” he said, adding they are self-sufficient and typically request all supplies directly through the Ministry of Interior.

The request for 2,000 meals and 1,000 bottles of water was passed on to Maj. Dewayne K. Bailey, brigade sustainment officer in charge for the 214th Fires Brigade. Upon receiving the word, the Hollandale, Miss., native set to work meeting the need.

Within a few hours, the food and water was ready to be delivered. To assist with transporting the supplies, the 511th MP Co. used one of their vehicles to drive the supplies to a predetermined IP site outside Forward Operating Base Delta.

The IPs received a total of 2,400 meals and 1,440 bottles of water. The meals are known as Halal; ready-to-eat meals that contain food permissible under Islamic law.

“We felt it was the right thing to do,” Bailey said. “We’re here to support the Iraqis.”

If additional support is requested, Bailey said, “we have the ability to continue if need be.”

In addition to the food and water, the MPs provided the IPs with medical supplies, said Tulip. The IPs received 10 combat lifesaver bags and five combat lifesaver packs.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18030&Itemid=1

THANKS TROOPS, YOU ARE THE BEST!http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-14.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-14.gif

Loyal American

April 1st, 2008, 6:56 pm

Ahhhh look, S&S picked up on little Noor's story! They have a cute pic we haven't see yet of Noor and 1st LT Kendrick! I really am glad to see this story getting some MSM coverage! :D

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Five-year-old Noor gives Kendrick a tour of her yard during a visit the soldier made to her house in al Buaytha, Iraq.

Photo enlarged:

http://www.stripes.com/articlephoto.asp?section=104&article=53760&photo=2

http://www.stripes.com/article.asp?section=104&article=53760

Previous post on this story here:

http://forums.hannity.com/showpost.php?p=23957371&postcount=4381

http://forums.hannity.com/showpost.php?p=24636411&postcount=4530

roger teekell

April 1st, 2008, 6:57 pm

Ahhhh look, S&S picked up on little Noor's story! They have a cute pic we haven't see yet of Noor and 1st LT Kendrick! I really am glad to see this story getting some MSM coverage! :D

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/53760_41144859.jpg

Five-year-old Noor gives Kendrick a tour of her yard during a visit the soldier made to her house in al Buaytha, Iraq.

http://www.stripes.com/article.asp?section=104&article=53760

Previous post on this story here:

http://forums.hannity.com/showpost.php?p=23957371&postcount=4381

http://forums.hannity.com/showpost.php?p=24636411&postcount=4530
Thanks LOYAL AMERICAN....That brought tears to my eyes...The good kind!!

Loyal American

April 1st, 2008, 9:45 pm

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SOI prevent suicide attack
Tuesday, 01 April 2008

TIKRIT, Iraq – Members of the Sons of Iraq, or Abna al-Iraq, engaged a suicide bomber before he could detonate his explosive device in Kirkuk Province April 1.

Iraqi Police and members of the SOI engaged a man wearing a suicide vest on Market Street in Hawijah, preventing any casualties.

The SOI are an armed neighborhood watch group in Kirkuk and are part of the Isnad, meaning “unity” in Arabic, movement.

“The quick reaction by these local heroes prevented a possible tragedy,” said Maj. Dan Meyers, a U.S. military spokesman in northern Iraq.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18043&Itemid=128

OUTSTANDING JOB SOI!
THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththclap3-28.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gif

AND LET'S REMEMBER THIS SOI POST FROM YESTERDAY TOO, THEY ARE DOING AN AMAZING JOB:

http://forums.hannity.com/showpost.php?p=24658921&postcount=4537

Loyal American

April 1st, 2008, 9:46 pm

Thanks LOYAL AMERICAN....That brought tears to my eyes...The good kind!!Yeah, me too! It shows how our troops have mighty big hearts. I sure hope they are able to give Noor the gift of sight, it would be an awesome ending to a beautiful story! Let's keep her in our prayers! :pray:

Loyal American

April 1st, 2008, 10:40 pm

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Iraqi Security Forces, detain two suspects in separate operations (Balad)
Tuesday, 01 April 2008

BAGHDAD – Iraqi Security Forces, advised by U.S. Special Forces, detained two suspected insurgents during separate operations April 1.

In Balad, Iraqi Special Operations Forces detained one suspected improvised explosive device cell leader who is reported to be responsible for IED and indirect fire attacks against Logistics Support Area Anaconda.

Intelligence reports have linked him and his criminal network to an IED attack in October 2007 that killed one Coalition force Soldier and wounded three others.

During another operation in Mosul, the Mosul Iraqi Special Weapons and Tactics unit detained one suspected terrorist who is reported to be involved in the kidnapping, torture and murder of Iraqi Security Forces personnel in the area.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18046&Itemid=21

INP arrest 3, uncover weapons cache
Tuesday, 01 April 2008

BAGHDAD – Iraqi National Police detained three suspected insurgents after a search of their vehicle uncovered a weapons cache in the New Baghdad district in northeastern Baghdad March 31.

Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers from Company C, 2nd Battalion, 30th Infantry Regiment reported INP confiscated five rockets, two mortar rounds, two hand grenades, three blasting caps and a 9 mm pistol.

The detainees were taken to a detention holding area for further questioning.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18039&Itemid=21

USSF, ISOF AND IP SNACHING UP THE SLIME DIRTBAGS!

THANK YOU, GREAT JOB!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththclap3-28.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gif

Loyal American

April 2nd, 2008, 2:12 am

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Iraqi Special Operations Forces kill 14 criminals in Basra
Wednesday, 02 April 2008

BALAD, Iraq – Iraqi Special Operation Forces, advised by U.S. Special Forces, killed 14 criminals March 31.
The operation was directed by senior Iraqi leaders in the port city of Basra.

The ISOF planned and conducted the mission to capture and arrest the criminals in an abandoned school.
According to recent intelligence information, these criminals planted improvised explosive devices along the roads leading to the school.

They also set up defensive fighting positions around the facility.

The school was a staging point for armed assaults against Iraqi Security Forces as well as a storage facility for illegal weapons, ammunition and explosives.

The ISOF received small arms fire throughout the operation. Both ISOF and U.S. SF returned fire while a Coalition aircraft provided additional requested close-air support. During the operation, 14 armed individuals were killed.

While clearing buildings next to the school, ISOF also found and released six ISF members who were being held at the compound.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18047&Itemid=21

Iraqi Army Soldiers, U.S. Special Forces conduct combined operation in Makhiat
Wednesday, 02 April 2008

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BAGHDAD – In the village of Makhiat, near Mosul, 2nd Iraqi Army Division Soldiers, advised by U.S. Special Forces, detained four suspected al-Qaeda in Iraq terrorists.

These AQI are suspected of violent acts against civilians, Iraqi Security Forces and Coalition forces including kidnapping, torture and murder of innocent Iraqi civilians. They are also suspected of suicide and improvised explosive attacks against Iraqi and Coalition forces as well as video recording violent attacks for AQI propaganda.

Five other suspects are being detained for questioning.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18055&Itemid=1

THANK YOU TO ALL, TERRIFIC JOB!http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththclap3-28.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gif

Loyal American

April 2nd, 2008, 2:23 am

Giving this story AEO posted today a bump to the top of the thread! The Barnes family is an example of all that is good and noble in America!
God bless them and may their son rest in peace!:flag:

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Calif., native 1st Lt. Casey Zimmerman of Company C, 3rdBattalion, 187th Infantry Regiment, hands out footballs at a school in Mullah Fayad March 27. All the items were donated by the family and community of Sgt. Nathan Barnes, who served in the area and was killed in Rushdi Mullah July 17. U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Tony M. Lindback, 3rd BCT, 101st Abn. Div.

Fallen Soldier’s Family Continues Mission of Love for Iraqi Children
Tuesday, 01 April 2008
By Staff Sgt. Tony M. Lindback
3rd BCT, 101st Abn. Div. (AASLT)

PATROL BASE YUSIFIYAH — Whoever said violence begets more violence never met the family of Sgt. Nathan Barnes.

American Fork, Utah, native Sgt. Nathan Barnes, a Soldier with 4th Battalion, 31st Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, was killed in Rushdi Mullah, Iraq, when his unit came under attack by small-arms fire July 17.

Rather than hold bitterness toward the people of a foreign land where their son died, Barnes’ family is embracing them. Barnes often sent home photos of children in the areas he served. His father, Kevin, said Nathan truly loved the Iraqi children.

Nathan’s love for those children inspired his father and other residents of American Fork to collect enough donated items to fill a 40-foot shipping container. Sewing machines, book bags, newborn kits, personal hygiene items, food, toys, children and women’s clothing, school supplies and even wheelchairs were donated to residents in and around Rushdi Mullah and Yusifiyah, places Barnes did most of his service in Iraq.

Rushdi Mullah, where Barnes was killed, is one of the communities now supported by Rakkasan Soldiers of 3rd Battalion, 187th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault). The Rakkasans took on the task of distributing the items once the shipping container arrived in Iraq.

Company C, 3-187th Inf. Regt., distributed some of the gifts at a school in Mullah Fayad, an impoverished Yusifiyah community.

Santa Barbara, Calif., native 1st Lt. Casey Zimmerman, who helped hand out the donations at the school, wanted everyone to know the source of the aid.

“I made a point at the beginning to convey who Nathan Barnes was, how he died, and what kind of loving family and country he belonged to,” Zimmerman said. “I bet we saw over 1,500 men, women, and children – mostly children.”

The generosity of the Barnes family and the American Fork community led to a similar address in Rushdi Mullah by Brig. Gen. Ali Jassim Muhammad Hassen Al Frejee, commander of the 25th Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division.

“A Soldier who came from thousands of miles away and was killed here – his family spends money to rebuild this area,” Ali said. “We have to respect that.”

Capt. Clifford Kazmarek, commander of Company B, 3-187th Inf. Regt., said the experience was remarkable and humbling.

“I have just the greatest amount of respect for that family for doing this, and I know that the people here truly appreciate it,” Kazmarek said.

The citizens received most items with a smile and without hesitation. But there was one gift that had many children puzzled.

“The Frisbee befuddled them,” said Pittsburgh native Capt. Michael Starz, commander of Co. C, 3-187th Inf. Regt. “They didn’t quite grasp the concept. They thought it was a serving plate so we had to engage with the kids for a few throws until they got the idea. In the end, though, they still said, ‘Where’s the football?’”

There were many footballs – soccer balls to Americans – handed out as well.

Thousands of Iraqis from Rushdi Mullah and Mullah Fayad benefited from the generosity.

“I never imagined a family – American or otherwise – could provide unmitigated charity to the people of a foreign town in which their son was killed,” Zimmerman said. “The Barnes family and those who have contributed to their noble foundation are true testaments to America's values.”

:flag: :flag: :flag:

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18029&Itemid=1

Loyal American

April 2nd, 2008, 10:31 am

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Coalition forces detain 12 suspected terrorists
Wednesday, 02 April 2008

BAGHDAD – Coalition forces detained a dozen suspected terrorists today while targeting al-Qaeda in Iraq operations, including the propaganda and suicide bombing networks.

Coalition forces captured three suspected terrorists, two of whom are believed to facilitate the movement of foreign terrorists into Iraq, during operations in Baghdad and Qayyarah. East of Taji, Coalition forces targeted al-Qaeda in Iraq – or AQI – senior leaders and detained two suspected terrorists.

Coalition forces targeted the same Baghdad car-bombing network targeted during operations Tuesday and captured two more suspected terrorists. Farther north, Coalition forces continued operations against the AQI propaganda network. Two suspected terrorists were detained in Mosul, and three were detained northwest of Samarra.

“Al-Qaeda in Iraq is an adaptive, barbaric enemy, but they will be allowed no safe haven,” said Maj. Winfield Danielson, MNF-I spokesman. “Iraqi and Coalition forces will continue to disrupt their networks and capture or kill their members, improving security for all Iraqis.”

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18053&Itemid=128

HOOAH! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththclap3-28.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gif

Loyal American

April 2nd, 2008, 11:17 am

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Locals Aid International Zone Police During Indirect Fire Attacks
Wednesday, 02 April 2008

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BAGHDAD — Eerily quiet best described the streets in central Baghdad Saturday.

The curfew imposed during recent fighting in Baghdad and Basra reduced traffic, but young airmen of the Air Force 732nd Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron, who police the International Zone police, still conduct patrols, even under the heightened security measures.

Immediately following an attack, the IZ Police respond and assess the damage. They disseminate information to the control center and take pictures, getting on and off the site as quickly as possible.

Since March 23, there have been more than 80 indirect fire attacks in the IZ. Capt. Thomas Rains, JASG-C liaison to the IZ police said, “It has been harder to do pure law enforcement; now we are first responders giving first aid and taking care of people.”

During the recent indirect fire attacks, Iraqis living in the International Zone report point of impact directly to the local airmen. The airmen, who perform daily patrols on the streets of the International Zone, work hard to build community relationships.

Airman 1st Class Clinton McCarley knows many of the local business owners in the IZ. “There is a tobacco shop, liquor shop, tactical gear shop and we try to visit the shops and ask about unusual activity.”

McCarley patrols with Airman 1st Class Erik Tycksen, both deployed from RAF Mildenhall, U.K., and on their first combat tour. “We help locals with humanitarian aid. We have one family in the IZ who has three children with dwarfism – we got them a wheelchair. Our families from back home also send clothes and toys,” said Tycksen.

The airmen work alongside the Secret Service, FBI, DEA, Department of Justice, Department of State and foreign military personnel.

“This duty is a challenge for young airmen. Iraqis need to have a say in the area. Going back to the U.K. will be boring, because they have been challenged to think outside the box,” said Senior Master Sgt. Clayton Christiansen, a senior noncommissioned officer in the 732nd.

For many of the airmen, the best part of their mission are the interactions with the locals, particularly delivering soccer balls, toys and clothes to children in the IZ. The relationships that are built in the four-square-mile community yielded fruitful information during the indirect fire attacks the week following Easter Sunday.

“We build community relations – build a friendly positive rapport. There is an extra set of eyes working with us,” said Christiansen.

“I am the community relations guy; I am happy to meet people and build trust. The people here know that I’m not gonna do them wrong”, said Staff Sgt. Kory Grant.

Numerous neighborhood children crowd around Grant’s parked vehicle. The children hug him and ask, “What is your name?” to newcomers.

Since Easter, more than 30 local Iraqis have contacted Grant with information about incidents in the IZ.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18057&Itemid=110

THANK YOU! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gif

Loyal American

April 2nd, 2008, 11:18 am

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15 caches, IED factory discovered in northern Iraq
Wednesday, 02 April 2008

TIKRIT, Iraq – Iraqi Army and Coalition force Soldiers discovered 15 weapons caches and an improvised explosive device factory in northern Iraq April 1.

The weapons and ammunition discovered included one 155mm and three 120mm rounds, one 122mm Illumination round, 14 107mm rockets, 58 82mm and 12 60mm mortars, along with other small-arms munitions.

More than 60 pounds of explosives and improvised explosive device making materials were also discovered among the caches, while the IED factory contained more than 3,500 pounds of additional explosives.

The caches were found in both Diyala and Salah ad Din Provinces, and the IED factory was discovered in Ninewah.

“The joint efforts between the Iraqi Army and CF are paying off,” said Maj. Dan Meyers, spokesman for Multi-National Division - North. “These continued finds will no doubt help to keep the people of Iraq safe,” Meyers said.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18049&Itemid=128

FANTASTIC JOB IA AND CF!

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-15.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gif

AEOakley

April 2nd, 2008, 12:40 pm

Footage of a Baghdad aerial weapons team engaged and destroyed a terrorist rocket site after observing several terrorists removing rocket rails from an attack site in eastern Baghdad at approximately 11:30 a.m. March 28.

The terrorists fired seven rockets into the vicinity of central Baghdad's International Zone.
After observing the terrorists flee the scene, the aerial weapons team destroyed the attack site, followed the terrorists and destroyed a get-away vehicle with that had rockets in the trunk.

In a separate attack in eastern Baghdad, MND-B Soldiers killed two terrorists after their patrol was attacked with rocket-propelled grenades and small-arms fire at approximately 4 p.m.

In a third attack in eastern Baghdad, MND-B Soldiers killed ten terrorists after a joint security station was attacked by small-arms fire. Provided by Multi-National Division-Baghdad.

Watch the video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kr8uFqjf_iQ

:flag: :flag: :flag:

Loyal American

April 2nd, 2008, 3:44 pm

Watch the video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kr8uFqjf_iQ

:flag: :flag: :flag:

This video is so awesome and the voice talkin' to ya sounds like it's a star wars movie! :cool:

Dirtbags can't hide from our air crews! :flag:

Loyal American

April 2nd, 2008, 3:53 pm

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Former Detainees Released to Sheikh's Supervision

JURF AS SAHKR, Iraq, April 2, 2008 – After serving their sentences in U.S.-run prisons in Iraq, 25 detainees were released under the supervision of a local sheikh in Jurf as Sahkr on March 28.

Sheikh Sabah al-Janabi, captain of the Janabi tribe and leader of Jurf as Sahkr, said he is confident the men will return to peaceful, productive lives in the community.

“Almost all of the bad people here changed their mind, so we must give these men another chance to be good people,” Sabah said. “I will see that these men will serve Jurf as Sahkr, their families and the future of Iraq.”

The sheikh regularly meets with soldiers of Company A, 3rd Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, who are based out of Patrol Base Jurf, a compound near the village center.

Army Capt. Eric Tisland, commander of Company A, welcomed the former detainees back into the village and updated them on the changes Jurf as Sahkr has undergone since they were last home.

“In the past seven months, violence in Jurf has fallen dramatically, thanks to the Sons of Iraq chasing out the terrorists and criminals,” Tisland told the men.

Sabah said he believes the men, some of whom attacked coalition forces and other Iraqis, will thrive under the new security conditions.

“This area was very difficult to live in a year ago. Everyone had to fight to survive, and the coalition forces didn’t know who was good and who was bad, so they arrested many people” he said. “The people now just want to forget the past; it was very bad.”

Also releasing detainees March 28 were two other units from the same brigade task force. Battery B, 1st Battalion, 76th Field Artillery, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, released eight detainees in Hak, Iraq, under the supervision of Sheikh Kamil, tribal head of the Janabi tribe in the Anzio area of operations.

Meanwhile, at Joint Security Station Haswah, 2nd Battalion, 502nd Infantry, also released eight detainees under the supervision of several tribal leaders from the area including Sheikh Kaither and Sheikh Faleh.

Additional photo's in link:

http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=49447

Loyal American

April 2nd, 2008, 4:04 pm

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Iraqi Army, MND-C Soldiers clear road of IEDs (Maderiyah)
Wednesday, 02 April 2008

FORWARD OPERATING BASE KALSU, Iraq – Iraqi Army soldiers and Multi- National Division – Center Soldiers successfully cleared a vital road for local residents between Maderiyah and Kutimiyah March 29.

As a result of tips from local citizens, a route clearance and explosive ordnance disposal team from 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division and the Iraqi Army was able to identify and clear five improvised explosive devices from the road.

When MND-C Soldiers first arrived, the road was impassable and the bridge between the two communities had been destroyed.

In addition, Iraqi tips in the area resulted in the unit uncovering two 57 mm projectiles, a pressure strip initiating device and a 120 mm mortar with detonation cord.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18070&Itemid=21

GIVE THOSE IRAQI CITIZEN'S A THUMBS UP!

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-15.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gif

Loyal American

April 2nd, 2008, 9:29 pm

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AQI financial leader captured in Salman Pak
Wednesday, 02 April 2008

CAMP VICTORY, Iraq – Coalition forces detained a key al-Qaeda in Iraq leader in Salman Pak, south of Baghdad, April 2.

The individual serves as a financial and logistical facilitator for AQI in the local area. He determines the amount of money to be paid to AQI for the release of kidnap victims, and trains suicide bombers how to use self-detonating and vehicle-born improvised explosive devices.

He is responsible for numerous attacks against Coalition forces and the Iraqi Army, including recent suicide attacks.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18077&Itemid=21

ONE NASTY DIRTBAG OUT OF A JOB, COMPLIMENTS OF CF!

SWEEEEET JOB, THANK YOU! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-15.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gif

Loyal American

April 2nd, 2008, 11:03 pm

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1-15 Inf. Regt. operation snatches key suspect (Salman Pak)
Wednesday, 02 April 2008

BAGHDAD – An early morning operation April 2 in Salman Pak by Company A, 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment led to the detaining of a Multi-National Division – Center key suspect.

A neighbor of the suspect came forward and helped MND-C Soldiers identify the individual.

The suspect was number two on the 1-15 Inf. Regiment’s list of suspected criminals and number four on the MND-C list.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18081&Itemid=21

MND-B Soldiers seize munitions cache (Baghdad)
Wednesday, 02 April 2008

BAGHDAD – Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers seized a munitions cache while patrolling in the northeast region of New Baghdad April 2.

The cache was seized by Soldiers from 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division.

It consisted of explosively formed penetrators, rocket-propelled grenades, RPG launchers and sticks of RPG propellant.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18079&Itemid=21

Citizen’s tip leads Iraqi Army to EFP cache (Mahmudiyah)
Wednesday, 02 April 2008

BAGHDAD – A tip from an Iraqi citizen led Iraqi Army soldiers to a weapons cache in Mahmudiyah, April 1.

The cache included two complete explosively-formed projectiles, four rocket-propelled grenades, a 60 mm mortar tube, a 60 mm mortar round and small arms ammunition.

The contents of the cache have been turned over to Multi-National Division – Center Soldiers for destruction.

Criminals who once operated in the area no longer have the support of the population as Iraqi Security Forces build on their capacity to enforce the rule of law.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18078&Itemid=21

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gif.........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gif.........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gif.........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gif.........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gif.........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gif.........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gif

Loyal American

April 3rd, 2008, 9:38 am

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Coalition forces detain suspected Special Groups criminal
Thursday, 03 April 2008

BAGHDAD – Coalition forces detained a suspected Iranian-backed Special Groups criminal and two other suspects early this morning in the al-Hillah area, south of Baghdad.

Reports indicate the targeted suspect planned to assassinate Hillah police leaders and attempted to gather intelligence for Special Groups attacks to disrupt security in the area. He is also suspected of distributing $100,000 to Special Groups cells south of Baghdad.

During the operation, while the ground force was moving to the target area, unknown individuals fired upon Coalition forces, who returned fire in self-defense. A Coalition force helicopter also engaged the unknown individuals. One vehicle was destroyed, several structures were damaged, and three civilians were reportedly wounded. The incident is under investigation at this time.

When the ground force arrived at the target area, they captured the targeted individual and two other suspects without further incident.

"Iraqi and Coalition forces will continue to seek out and bring to justice criminals who target law enforcement personnel and threaten the security of Iraqi citizens," said Cmdr. Scott Rye, MNF-I spokesman.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18087&Itemid=128

THANK YOU, GREAT JOB TROOPS!http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-15.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gif

Loyal American

April 3rd, 2008, 9:46 am

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Four terrorists killed, six suspects detained in Coalition operations
Thursday, 03 April 2008

BAGHDAD – Coalition forces killed four terrorists and detained six suspects in the north and central regions of the country during operations targeting al-Qaeda in Iraq senior leaders Wednesday and today.

East of Samarra Wednesday, Coalition forces identified a suspected associate of al-Qaeda in Iraq – or AQI – senior leaders, stopping the truck in which the suspect was traveling with three other individuals. Two of the passengers reached for weapons in the back of the vehicle.

Perceiving hostile intent Coalition forces engaged the men, killing all four.

Coalition forces captured a wanted individual Wednesday in Mosul. The suspect is believed to be a senior figure in the AQI network and tied to several senior terrorist leaders. One additional suspect was detained during the mission, and two more were detained this morning in similar operations in the city.

West of Qayyarah today, ground forces captured an individual identified from intelligence gathered during an operation Mar. 30. The suspect is allegedly tied to AQI leaders and their smuggling network. Coalition forces detained one additional suspect during the operation.

“While Iraqi and Coalition forces continue to target Al-Qaeda in Iraq and disrupt its networks, AQI remains an adaptive, lethal enemy, and a tough fight remains ahead,” said Maj. Winfield Danielson, MNF-I spokesman. “The people of Iraq have rejected the terrorists’ corrupt, Taliban-like ideology, and Iraqi and Coalition forces are working with Iraqi citizens to build a nation free from al-Qaeda’s indiscriminate violence.”

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18086&Itemid=21

CF GETTIN' THE JOB DONE!

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-15.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gif

Loyal American

April 3rd, 2008, 11:37 am

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Abu Amer Residents Receive Medical Treatment
Thursday, 03 April 2008

FORWARD OPERATING BASE KALSU — Residents of Abu Amer, a small village in the Wasit province of Iraq, received medical assistance March 28 from Coalition forces during a medical civil action program designed to provide basic primary care.

Using a school as a makeshift clinic, Company A, 2nd Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment, attached to 1st Battalion, 76th Field Artillery, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, secured the area before announcing, via loudspeaker, the opportunity for residents to receive health care and humanitarian assistance.

Once word of the MEDCAP was broadcast, people began to pour in from the streets, forming a line just outside the school.

Maj. Howard Curlin, 703rd Brigade Support Battalion surgeon; Capt. Jacob Turnquist, 4th BCT surgeon; and Maj. Marilyn Lazarz, an Army public health nurse with Company B, 415th Civil Affairs, led the team examining, diagnosing, treating and advising the patients, along with the help of nine medics.

At the initial screening station, combat medics, assisted by translators, interviewed each patient for medical history and previous treatments and noted his or her ailment on a slip of paper. Then the medics measured each patient’s vital signs—pulse, temperature and blood pressure.

“The locals who were seen at the medical event were grateful for the medical care provided to them by the doctors, medics and nurse,” said Lazarz, who has been a public health nurse for 18 years. “Coalition forces continue to build relationships with the locals and continue to make a difference in their everyday lives.”

As the day continued, medical personnel saw 212 patients, ranging from infants to elderly, with various ailments. Medical issues ranged from common joint and back pain to infections and gastrointestinal disorders.

Read more, CLICK on photo:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/080403_sod_med.jpg (http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18099&Itemid=1)

GOD BLESS YOU AND THANK YOU, TROOPS!

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-15.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gif

Loyal American

April 3rd, 2008, 12:05 pm

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Coalition forces conduct airstrike in Basra, two criminals killed
Thursday, 03 April 2008

BAGHDAD – Coalition aircraft conducted a precision strike on a house in Basra Wednesday, killing two criminals.

While conducting operations in support of Iraqi Security Forces, Coalition forces were attacked with small-arms fire by two criminals on a rooftop. The ground force called in supporting aircraft to engage the individuals. An F/A-18 carried out a precision airstrike on the house, and Coalition forces on site confirmed that two enemy were killed in the airstrike.

Coalition forces are unaware of any civilians killed in the strike but are currently looking into the matter.

"Coalition forces continue to provide tactical overwatch with intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance platforms, and support aircraft, on an as-requested basis from Iraqi Security Forces in Basra," said Cmdr. Scott Rye, MNF-I spokesman. “We go to extraordinary measures to ensure the safety of civilians when conducting operations, unlike criminal elements, who consistently put innocent civilians at risk.”

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18098&Itemid=21

Informant leads Soldiers to multiple caches (Kutimiyah)
Wednesday, 02 April 2008

FORWARD OPERATING BASE KALSU, Iraq – Iraqi Army Soldiers with 5th Battalion, 25th Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division assisted by Multi-National Division – Center Soldiers from 2nd Brigade Combat Team recovered five weapons caches in Kutimiyah, north of Joint Security Site W-1, April 2.

At the site of a farm, Soldiers found 45 rocket propelled grenades, 300 PKC heavy machine gun rounds, 37 mortar and projectile fuses, one DSHKA .50 caliber machine gun with 500 rounds of ammunition, one anti-personnel mine, two 81 mm mortar tubes, a 55 gallon barrel containing a PKC machine gun and 2000 PKC machine gun rounds.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18085&Itemid=21

AWESOME!!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-15.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gif

Loyal American

April 3rd, 2008, 1:15 pm

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http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/lrs_080403-O-9999X-006.jpg
Students with the Afghan National Police Trauma Assistance Personnel course treat a fellow policeman’s simulated wounds during the inaugural course at the ANP Central Training Center in Kabul, Afghanistan. Combined Security Transition Command Afghanistan photo

Afghanistan Graduates First Police Trauma Assistance Personnel

KABUL, Afghanistan, April 3, 2008 – The Afghan National Police Central Training Center graduated 24 police officers today from the first course for trauma-assistance personnel taught by U.S. Navy hospital corpsmen.

Three Combined Security Transition Command Afghanistan Navy corpsmen from the ANP Medical Embedded Training Team here taught the eight-week course, which gives the ANP its first personnel certified in basic first aid and medical care skills.

“Just being able to put on a proper (wound) dressing is going to increase the probability of (saving policemen’s lives) tenfold,” said course instructor Petty Officer 1st Class Ed W. Scheinert, an Oxnard, Calif., native deployed to Afghanistan from Naval Station North Island, Calif.

The METT sailors said they modeled the course after the combat medic course taught to Afghan National Army soldiers, because ANP are just as likely as ANA soldiers to have contact with enemy fighters.

TAP Class 001 students learned to apply bandages and tourniquets and to correctly give intravenous injections, said Scheinert. They each successfully gave another student an IV injection.

Students said they benefited from the lectures and practical application.

Ahmad Fawad, one of two honor graduates, said he believes with confidence that he will be able to help his fellow police in medical emergencies.

Chief Petty Officer Manuel A. Rodriguez, a course instructor originally from Carolina, Puerto Rico, and deployed to Afghanistan from the Sewells Point Branch Medical Clinic, Norfolk, Va., said he plans to recommend six graduates to become future course instructors.

The TAP students graduated at a shared ceremony with ANP in other courses at the training center, then held a follow-up ceremony in their classroom. Each TAP graduate received a certificate, a TAP patch to wear on his uniform and a medical kit.

“That badge that you’re wearing not only makes you a better (policeman), but (shows) you have the skills to help your fellow police,” said Senior Chief Petty Officer Martin V. Aquino, senior enlisted advisor with the Combined Security Transition Command surgeon’s office.

Scheinert said future classes will include ANP, Afghan National Civil Order Police and Afghan Border Police. TAP Class 002 is scheduled to begin April 12.

More photos in link:

http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=49460

THANK YOU NAVY CORPSMEN! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gif

Loyal American

April 3rd, 2008, 5:06 pm

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Sons of Iraq discover, turn in large cache
Thursday, 03 April 2008

TARMIYA, Iraq – In cooperation with the local sheik, Abna al-Iraq members, or Sons of Iraq, notified Multi-National Division – Baghdad of a substantial munitions cache northwest of Baghdad April 1.

The Soldiers from 14th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team searched the area and discovered the cache consisting of more than 100 68 mm rockets, rocket fuses, helicopter rockets, 82 mm mortars, and mortar fuses. The cache also contained more than 500 artillery fuses, empty rocket bodies, 155 mm artillery shells, 75 boxes containing hundreds of 14.5 mm heavy machine gun ammunition, and nine large boxes containing loose 14.5 mm heavy machine gun ammunition. Fifty plastic green tubes containing an unknown substance, M-88 anti-tank mines attached to detonating cord, rocket-propelled grenades, AK-47 magazines, numerous loose small arms rounds and one copper cone-shaped charge were all found in the large cache.

An explosive ordnance disposal team evaluated the find and assumed control of the munitions cache.

“The Abna al-Iraq are the heroes of the day. They found this very large cache and took it out of the hands of the terrorists,” said Maj. Al Hing, a 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team spokesperson. “Looking at the sheer amount of munitions that will not be used against Iraqi Security Forces, Coalition forces and the people of Iraq, terrorists are going to have a harder time doing their ugly business. The partnership that worked together to remove this cache makes for a safer and more stable Iraq.”

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18104&Itemid=128

WOW, GREAT TEAM WORK AND AWESOME FIND!

DIRTBAGS CACHE GOES POOF....GOTTA LOVE IT!

THANK YOU SOI!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-15.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gif

Loyal American

April 3rd, 2008, 7:46 pm

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Aviation Takes Fight to Criminals

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/080403_fea3_med.jpg

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/images/stories/icon_video.gif Watch gun camera footage (http://www.mnf-iraq.com/images/stories/features/2008/april/080403_fea3.wmv)

CAMP STRIKER — Attack helicopters from Combat Aviation Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division have stepped up in the fight against criminal elements south of Baghdad.

Since March 24, Apache and Kiowa helicopters have killed 36 enemy fighters in support of troops on the ground.

The recent fighting against criminals south of Baghdad and in Wasit Province has highlighted the benefit of air support to Coalition and Iraqi Security Forces, but it isn’t something new, said Col. Dan Ball, commander of 3rd CAB.

“We’ve always taken the fight to the enemy,” Ball said.

The 3rd CAB, based out of Hunter Army Airfield in Savannah, Ga., has been deployed to Baghdad International Airport since May. The 1st Battalion, 3rd Aviation Regiment Apaches and the 3rd Squadron, 17th Cavalry Regiment Kiowas support Coalition and Iraqi Security Forces in the area stretching across the Tigris and Euphrates rivers south of Baghdad.

Earlier in the 3rd CAB’s deployment, the fight was primarily against al-Qaeda in Iraq fighters south of Baghdad as they tried to feed sectarian violence in the capital.

When small groups of criminals began clashing with Iraqi Security Forces, Ball said, it was natural for his helicopters to support the fight.

“As opposed to Sunni extremists, al-Qaeda in Iraq for instance, we have Shi’a extremists we’re going after (as well). We don’t differentiate,” he said. “This is an ISF-led fight and many of our engagements down south have been in support of ISF.”

Since March 22, Multi-National Division – Center, the division 3rd CAB supports, has detained more than 200 criminals, killed 40 Shi’a criminal fighters, found more than 60 weapons caches - of which 20 were turned in by Iraqis - and found and cleared nearly 30 improvised explosive devices on area roads.

As the ISF takes the fight to Shi’a criminals, areas south of Baghdad continue to improve, Ball said. Schools are opening, agriculture and businesses are improving and people are working toward a better Iraq, Ball said. “Everywhere we turn, we’re making progress in MND-C.”

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18102&Itemid=1

HOO-RAH! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-15.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gif

Loyal American

April 3rd, 2008, 9:15 pm

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ISF, advised by U.S. Special Forces, detain 1 suspected insurgent, discover cache in separate ops
Thursday, 03 April 2008

BALAD, Iraq – Iraqi Security Forces, advised by U.S. Special Forces, detained one suspected criminal leader and discovered a weapons cache site in separate operations April 2.

In al-Qaim, the al-Qaim Iraqi Special Weapons and Tactics Unit detained one suspected criminal leader who is reported to be responsible for improvised explosive devise and indirect fire attacks against Iraqi and Coalition forces in the area. Intelligence reports have linked him to the kidnapping and murder of ISF officials, tribal leaders and businessmen throughout al-Qaim. He is also believed to be providing intelligence reports to foreign fighters. Three other suspects are being held for further questioning.

In another operation in the Dur an Naft district of Basra, an Iraqi Emergency Response Unit conducted an operation to locate and eliminate a suspected improvised explosive device weapons cache.

During the operation, the assault force discovered a cache site which contained one 82mm mortar round, a 12-inch explosively formed projectile, seven rocket propelled grenades, three RPG launchers and hundreds of rounds of AK-47 assault rifle ammunition. The IERU and U.S. SF cordoned off the area and destroyed the cache.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18109&Itemid=128

GREAT JOB ISF AND USSF!

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-15.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gif

Loyal American

April 3rd, 2008, 9:53 pm

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Work Continues on Fallujah’s Sewage Treatment Facility

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FALLUJAH, Iraq, April 3, 2008 – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Gulf Region Division is directing an $85 million central wastewater treatment facility for Fallujah’s estimated 200,000 residents.

Started in May, the project is the largest in Anbar province and is 45 percent complete, officials said.

The facility is projected to be sufficient for all of Fallujah’s wastewater treatment needs when the city integrates its own collection systems later and through population expansion to 2025.

Included in the work is a collection system for 27 percent of the present city population, trunk mains for the projected 100 percent capability, pump stations and a wastewater treatment plant processing 10.5 million gallons daily. The Iraqi government will develop the remainder of the collection system.

The facility is a “four-train” facility – a term that describes a complete beginning-to-end treatment system that usually exists in parallel and complementary sets with other trains. An operational plant of Trains 1 and 2 should come on line by the end of August, while Trains 3 and 4 likely will be complete around October 2008, according to Peter Collins, a project manager with the Gulf Region Central district.

Having several trains enables a treatment facility to handle emergencies and to provide for future expansion, he explained. Two trains are sufficient for Fallujah at its current population, although the city is expanding faster than anticipated due to the improved security in Anbar province, he added.

Key to the operation are two central pump stations that are being finished more than 40 feet below ground level and will have a pumping capacity of 40 million gallons daily. Fallujah’s sewage will be sent to inlet tanks, and then directed to aerated grit and oil removal tanks, on to aeration tanks more than 60 yards in diameter, sent to settling tanks and, finally, to a chlorination contact chamber before release into the Euphrates River.

“The impact on the people of Fallujah and the environment of the Euphrates River Valley will greatly improve the health of the citizens, particularly the infants, both within the city, but also downstream, where the Euphrates is the primary drinking source,” Collins said. “By the end of this summer, there will be no wastewater in the collection-connected streets, and children will be able to play safely outside.

Encouraging report, CLICK on photo to read more:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/scr_080403-A-9999X-001.jpg (http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=49458)

USACE ROCKS!

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-15.gif

AEOakley

April 3rd, 2008, 11:13 pm

This video is so awesome and the voice talkin' to ya sounds like it's a star wars movie! :cool:

Dirtbags can't hide from our air crews! :flag:

You got that right! :)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kr8uFqjf_iQ

Loyal American

April 3rd, 2008, 11:18 pm

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Soldiers Clear Road of IEDs, Allow Residents to Return Home
Thursday, 03 April 2008

FORWARD OPERATING BASE KALSU — Coalition forces, residents of Maderiyah and a team of Iraqi Army Soldiers helped clear five improvised explosive devices from roads north of Joint Security Site W-1 March 29.

During the mission, Soldiers of Battery B, 1st Battalion, 9th Field Artillery, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, a route clearance team and an explosive ordnance disposal team successfully cleared a vital road for residents of Maderiyah and Kutimiyah.

CLICK on photo to read more:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/080403_fea2_med.jpg (http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18101&Itemid=1)

CF, ISF Conduct Combined Operation
Thursday, 03 April 2008

FORWARD OPERATING BASE HAMMER — Policemen from 3rd Brigade, 1st National Police Division, led by Col. Emad, organized and executed a clearing operation March 29 in Jisr Diyala.

With assistance from 3rd Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team’s National Police Transition Team; the Jisr Diyala Iraqi Police; and local members of the Sons of Iraq, the 3/1 NP detained four criminals and recovered two rocket-propelled grenade launchers, five RPG warheads, 37 AK-47 assault rifles and 18 magazines.

CLICK on photo to read more:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/080403_fea1_med.jpg (http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18100&Itemid=1)

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gif

Loyal American

April 4th, 2008, 12:08 am

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U.S. Soldiers Restore Honor to Old Glory

Forward Operating Base Delta, Iraq, Saturday, 29 March 2008

By Sgt. 1st Class Stacy Niles

More than 150 U.S. Soldiers and civilians restored honor to a U.S. flag that lay lonely and forgotten on the grounds of a Georgia apartment complex for almost a week in February.

The flag was retrieved by a passerby who could not stand seeing the flag treated in such a manner.

Having passed the discarded flag twice, Dan Turner took the flag the third time he saw it lying on the ground and sent it to his friend Chief Warrant Officer 4 Thomas Golden of the Joint Forces Headquarters Forward, Georgia National Guard.

“This flag was being used as landscape art and a business flagging without the daily outdoor ceremony it deserved. In the end it simply was allowed to lie in the mud of the Irwin Bridge right-of-way for a week while managers, landscape personnel and employees, residents and neighbors simply ignored it lying on the ground,” wrote Turner in a letter to the apartment complex, sheriff’s department, judges and the editor of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

After taking the flag, Turner e-mailed Golden and asked if he would fly the flag at Forward Operating Base Delta, Iraq. Turner cleaned the flag and shipped it to Golden who was more than happy to restore the flag’s honor before returning it to Turner.

“The U.S. flag for me is more than just a piece of cloth to be flown or displayed as a matter of convenient patriotism or decoration. It is the one true symbolic representation of what our nation and her principles stand for,” Golden said. “Also, many great men and women have served in uniform, and in many cases, died for advancing freedom and democracy as well as the preservation and perpetuation of our freedom, liberty and way of life we enjoy every day which our flag symbolizes.

CLICK on below photo to finish reading this amazing story:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/2376707199_0905c901b5_o.jpg (http://www.taskforcemarne.com/home/1288?task=view)

Additional photos provided by Dan Turner:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/2376707333_6a6d26d816_o.jpg

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/03270820FLAG208.jpg

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/0327008FLAG204.jpg

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/032708FLAG203.jpg

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/032708FLAG206.jpg

THANK YOU DAN TURNER, CHIEF GOLDEN AND ALL WHO TOOK PART IN OPERATION RESTORE HONOR! :flag:

WE ARE ALL VERY PROUD OF YOU!
GOD BLESS YOU AND THANK YOU VERY MUCH! :flag:

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED! :flag:

Dan Turner

April 4th, 2008, 1:22 am

She looks pretty darn good from here in that last photo...compared to that first one on the ground. Thanks LA!!

Dan Turner
Conyers, Ga

Loyal American

April 4th, 2008, 10:22 am

She looks pretty darn good from here in that last photo...compared to that first one on the ground. Thanks LA!!

Dan Turner
Conyers, Ga

Thank you, Dan, for rescuing her and then sending her to Iraq to have her honor restored in such a beautiful ceremony! :flag:

I received a response, which I am proud to share, from CW4 Tom Golden:

Dear Ms. *****,

Thank you so much for your kind words regarding our flag ceremony. I'm
so glad to know that there are some folks out there that still care as
much as Dan and I do about this particular issue. I know this probably
seems trivial to some people, but this particular incident demonstrates
on certain level where we are heading as a nation when it comes to the
values and principles I grew up with as a youngster. It was never a
question of what was the right thing to do. Rather, it was how to do
it. I feel as though we restored honor to this flag in a dignified
manner and I appreciate all the folks that came out on a very hot day to
participate....they were not ordered to be there, they came because they
cared.

Thank you again for taking an interest in our story and for your
thoughts and prayers for me and my fellow soldiers.

God Bless You.

God Bless the United States of America.

Respectfully,

CW4 Tom Golden

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththththAmericanFlag-Animated--10.gif

Loyal American

April 4th, 2008, 11:42 am

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththth02paper-16.gif
ISF kill 7 criminal members, detain 16 in 3 separate operations in Basra
Friday, 04 April 2008

BALAD, Iraq – Iraqi Security Forces, advised by U.S. Special Forces, killed seven criminal members and detained 16 others during three separate operations in Basra directed by the Government of Iraq April 3.

Iraqi Special Operations Forces captured a suspected Special Groups leader who has been rallying criminal members in Basra to fight against Coalition forces.

Intelligence reports have linked the man to the kidnapping and murder of Iraqi Army and ISOF soldiers. He is also believed to be involved in oil smuggling and foreign fighter networks.

During the operation, ISOF received heavy small-arms fire and two Coalition force vehicles struck improvised explosive devices. One IED temporarily disabled a vehicle while the other IED was ineffective. ISOF killed five armed fighters and detained 10 others during the operation.

Hillah Iraqi Special Weapons and Tactics team conducted an operation to deny insurgent operations in Basra. During the operation, the team came under small-arms attack and returned fire while a Coalition force aircraft provided close-air support. Two armed individuals who were firing on ISWAT were killed. Three others we detained.

In a third operation in Basra, an Iraqi Emergency Response Unit captured two suspected members of a criminal cell linked to an ambush attempt against U.S. SF soldiers April 2. Three other suspects are being held for further questioning.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18111&Itemid=21

Coalition forces conduct airstrike in al-Halaf, six criminals killed (al-Halaf)
Friday, 04 April 2008

BAGHDAD – Coalition aircraft conducted a precision strike on a vehicle equipped with a heavy machine gun in al-Halaf Wednesday, destroying the vehicle and killing six armed criminals.

After receiving reports of heavy machine gun fire, Coalition forces employed an unmanned aerial vehicle to observe, confirm and conduct the airstrike on the vehicle. Six armed criminals were confirmed killed in the precision airstrike.

“Coalition forces are providing aircraft support for Iraqi Security Forces in Basra on an as-requested basis,” said Navy Lt. Michael Street, MNF-I spokesman. “We will continue to work with the Government of Iraq to provide a secure and stable environment in Iraq.”

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18112&Itemid=21

USSF, ISF AND AIR POWER KICKIN' SOME BEHIND!

29 DIRTBAGS OUT OF COMMISSION NEVER TO HARM THE INNOCENT AGAIN!

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-16.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gif

Loyal American

April 4th, 2008, 12:20 pm

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththth02paper-16.gif .........TIGER HAS IT'S EYE ON THE ENEMY!

Tiger Sinks Its Teeth Into Ninewah
Friday, 04 April 2008

QAYYARAH — Iraq’s second largest city, Mosul, with nearly 2 million people has been called the last terrorist stronghold in Iraq. Combating the insurgents in the city is a constant operation, which is handled by 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment. When the fighting in the city takes its toll on the insurgents or they need to rest and re-supply, they run to the outlying rural areas of the Ninewah province to bed-down.

It is in these outlying areas that Tiger, 1st Squadron, 3rd ACR, takes the fight to the insurgents on the run from the city and works to keep the influx of fighters and supplies from making it back into Mosul.

“Our mission is to disrupt foreign fighter flow from the south and west areas of Mosul as safe havens and support zones,” said Maj. Matthew Dooley, Tiger Squadron’s executive officer. “They come south and use these areas to bed-down and to gather and rest before going back into Mosul to cause trouble.”

Tiger and its roughly 800 Soldiers have been working in the Vermont-sized area of the Ninewah province for almost four months, and in that time they have seen a lot of progress.

“We have taken our number-one high-value target and a couple other guys on our list,” said Dooley “They are senior leaders that have influence on foreign fighters and flow of weapons into Mosul.”

Tiger has also captured almost 50 caches of weapons, ammunition, bombs and bomb making material, which has forced the insurgents to move, said Dooley.

Of the 40 or so suspected insurgents Tiger has captured, less than 10 have been released. This is due to Tiger making sure they have solid intelligence and enough evidence to put the insurgents away for a long time, said Dooley.

To read much more, CLICK on photo:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/080404_fea3_med.jpg (http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18120&Itemid=1)

THANK YOU TIGER, WE ARE EXTREMELY PROUD OF YOU AND THE JOB YOU ARE DOING! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gif

WE PRAY FOR YOUR SAFETY EVERY DAY! :pray:

Loyal American

April 4th, 2008, 1:03 pm

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththth02paper-16.gif .....Read this one carefully, seeing alittle poetic justice here! ;)

Three terrorists killed, including would-be suicide bomber
Friday, 04 April 2008

BAGHDAD – Coalition forces killed three terrorists, including a would-be suicide bomber, while targeting al-Qaeda in Iraq operatives in central and northern Iraq Thursday.

Four suspected terrorists were also detained during the course of operations.

East of Mahmudiyah, Coalition forces on Thursday targeted an individual allegedly planning to carry out a suicide bombing attack in conjunction with the Baghdad car-bombing network. During the operation, three men in a vehicle attempted to elude the assault force, and Coalition forces engaged to stop the vehicle. All three men in the vehicle were killed, including the alleged suicide bomber.

While targeting a bombing coordinator in Mosul, Coalition forces detained one suspected terrorist.

Coalition forces conducted a precision operation in northwest Sinjar, capturing a suspected foreign terrorist facilitator with alleged ties to al-Qaeda in Iraq – or AQI – senior leaders. As the ground force approached, the wanted individual shot himself in the leg while drawing his weapon to engage Coalition forces. He was treated on scene and transported to a military medical facility. In a similar raid, the ground force captured another alleged associate of AQI senior leaders, as well as an additional suspect west of Baghdad.

“While Iraqi and Coalition forces are taking apart al-Qaeda in Iraq networks, capturing or killing their members, al-Qaeda remains the biggest threat to security and stability in Iraq, and there is still much work to be done,” said Maj. Winfield Danielson, MNF-I spokesman.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18115&Itemid=21

OUR TROOPS DISRUPTING DIRTBAG EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES AGAIN! ;)

THANK YOU TROOPS, EXCELLENT JOB!http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-16.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gif

Loyal American

April 4th, 2008, 2:33 pm

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Soldiers Build Hope in Assriya
Friday, 04 April 2008

Although they have a job that requires them to be nocturnal, a few of the Soldiers have chosen to use their daylight hours to work in a village located outside of Camp Taji.

Since February, Soldiers of 2nd Platoon, Battery A, 1st Bn., 143rd FA, use their personal time between missions to deliver supplies and make repairs to schools in the village of Assriya, Iraq.

“When we first started, we started with volunteers, but everybody volunteered so it ended up 100 percent participation,” said Sgt. 1st Class Richard Weaver, a Greenville, Calif., native and the platoon leader for 2nd Plt., Battery A, 1st Bn., 143rd FA.

“The kids make my day when I go out there. As bad as things are, they still have a good attitude about everything,” added Courtney, who was asked to get involved with the project because of his background as a general contractor.

The platoon is mostly made up of combat engineers, so doing the work at the schools was not a problem. Courtney did much of the construction around the unit’s area of operations and was asked to run the work crew for the mission at the school.

“It’s been an eye opener. It’s a totally different experience that nobody could ever understand unless they came here and were a part of it themselves,” said Spc. Shane Miniger, a Hughson, Calif., native and a gun truck driver for 2nd Plt., Battery A, 1st Bn., 143rd FA.

“Maybe they will have a little bit of a different opinion about troops in this country and know that we’re here to help out and affect them in some positive ways,” Miniger added.

To read full story CLICK on photo:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/080404_sod_med.jpg (http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18117&Itemid=1)

GOD BLESS OUR TROOPS!
:hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug:

THANK YOU! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gif

Loyal American

April 4th, 2008, 4:02 pm

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Two terrorists killed, 16 suspects detained as Coalition forces target al-Qaeda in Iraq
Friday, 04 April 2008

BAGHDAD – Coalition forces killed two terrorists and detained 16 suspected terrorists today during operations targeting al-Qaeda in Iraq senior leaders and bombing networks around Iraq.

West of Samarra, Coalition forces targeted an individual allegedly tied to a senior al-Qaeda in Iraq – or AQI – terrorist in the region. During the operation, the wanted individual attempted to breach the security perimeter and was wounded by small-arms fire from the security element.
Despite Coalition forces’ efforts in treating the man, he later died of his wounds. Seven suspected terrorists were detained in the operation.

Two coordinated operations focused on the AQI bombing network. During an operation in Sharqat, the ground force called for occupants of the target building to come out. One man who was initially compliant began to ignore Coalition forces’ instructions and attempted to retrieve something from under his clothing. Perceiving hostile intent, Coalition forces engaged, killing the man. Three suspected terrorists were detained at the scene. Farther south, the ground forces detained two more suspects in the second operation.

In Habbaniyah, Coalition forces detained three suspected terrorists allegedly tied to the car-bombing network north of Baghdad. One suspect was injured as the ground forces breached a door on the target building, but was treated on scene and transported to a military medical facility.

In Mosul, Coalition forces detained a suspect believed to be closely tied to AQI senior leaders there.

“Al-Qaeda in Iraq is an extremist organization whose support is dwindling as more and more people turn their backs on the terrorists’ indiscriminate violence and corrupt, Taliban-like ideology,” said Navy Lt. David Russell, MNF-I spokesman. “Iraqi and Coalition forces will continue to dismantle the terrorist networks, increasing security and public safety for all Iraqis.”

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18116&Itemid=21

AWESOME, ROCK ON TROOPS!http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-16.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gif

AEOakley

April 4th, 2008, 4:26 pm

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/Flag20002.jpg

U.S. Soldiers Restore Honor to Old Glory

Forward Operating Base Delta, Iraq, Saturday, 29 March 2008

By Sgt. 1st Class Stacy Niles

CLICK on below photo to finish reading this amazing story:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/2376707199_0905c901b5_o.jpg (http://www.taskforcemarne.com/home/1288?task=view)

Additional photos provided by Dan Turner:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/2376707333_6a6d26d816_o.jpg

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/03270820FLAG208.jpg

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/0327008FLAG204.jpg

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/032708FLAG203.jpg

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/032708FLAG206.jpg

THANK YOU DAN TURNER, CHIEF GOLDEN AND ALL WHO TOOK PART IN OPERATION RESTORE HONOR! :flag:

WE ARE ALL VERY PROUD OF YOU!
GOD BLESS YOU AND THANK YOU VERY MUCH! :flag:

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED! :flag:

Amen! Thank you Dan Turner, Chief Golden and ALL the troops!!

AEOakley

April 4th, 2008, 6:43 pm

ONLINE EXCLUSIVE - Counterinsurgency: Predictions and Prescriptions
by Tristan Abbey
Editor-at-Large

The war in Iraq has seen the rise of a new breed of bloggers, those who post from the frontlines. Among them are Michael Yon, famous for his photographs depicting daily tragedy, hope, and heroism, and Bill Roggio of the Long War Journal.

“We are finding success in Iraq,” Yon said. “We need to keep focused and continue to make smart moves.”

Yon also predicted that al Qaeda in Iraq “will no longer exist as a strategic component in this war” by the end of this summer. “Reconciliation,” he said, is now the “proximate challenge” that Petraeus should address in his testimony.

Roggio predicted that Petraeus would testify that “while the security situation has improved, there is much work to be done in Iraq.” He also said Petraeus will advise against a drawdown of troops below the pre-surge levels and will “highlight Iran’s complicity in propping up the Shia terror groups referred to as the Special Groups.”

“Significant Coalition presence remains essential for the eventual success of Iraq,” Yon concluded.

On this point, there is near unanimity.

http://www.stanfordreview.org/Archive/Volume_XL/Issue_5/News/news8.shtml

And, for further reading, here's a PDF of the transcript of General McCaffrey's testimony before the Senate Foreign Relations Hearing on April 2:

http://michaelyon-online.com/downloads/pdf/SFRCH.pdf

:flag::flag::flag:

Loyal American

April 4th, 2008, 6:52 pm

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Coalition Soldiers Visit Kutimiyah School
Friday, 04 April 2008

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/080404_fea1_med.jpg
First Lt. Greg Highstrom (left), from Cedarburg, Wisc., a platoon leader, and Spc. Nick Waterman, from Princeton, Idaho, an artilleryman, both with Battery B, 1st Battalion, 9th Field Artillery, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, speak with students of the Manahel primary school in Kutimiyah, March 30. The school is temporarily using a nearby home to hold classes because al-Qaida insurgents destroyed the school building. Photo by Sgt. Luis Delgadillo.

FORWARD OPERATING BASE KALSU — Many schools in the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division's area of operation have been rebuilt through the efforts of coalition forces.

There were a few schools though, such as the Manahel primary school in Kutimiyah, which had eluded coalition assistance.

In the last two months, Soldiers at Joint Security Station W-1, south of Kutimiyah, have reached out to the untouched area. They have opened routes into the community and begun to assess the needs of residents who felt left out of reconstruction efforts.

"They felt isolated because no one has been up there to start projects, but that's changing," said Capt. Richard Aaron, commander of Battery B, 1st Battalion, 9th Field Artillery, 2nd BCT, 3rd Inf. Div.

A recent route clearance operation brought Soldiers into the community, changing that perception.

The condition Soldiers found the school in struck a chord with 1st Lt. Greg Highstrom, from Cedarburg, Wisc., a platoon leader with Battery B.

Residents said al-Qaida insurgents used the school as a base of operations for conducting missions against Soldiers at JSS W-1. The insurgents destroyed the building when they left the area to prevent its use by coalition forces.

Highstrom said students who attended class at the primary school are now studying in a house lent by a nearby land owner. In five rooms, each not more than 40 square meters in size, children attend school five days a week from 8 a.m. until noon.

The seven teachers, helped move school desks into the temporary building; however, when the school year ends in two months, the owner of the house will return and the students will once again be without classrooms.

The ministry of education, alerted to the situation facing the students, has put in a request for government of Iraq funds to rebuild the school.
In northern Kutimiyah, the Tatwir School, which had also been damaged by insurgents, already has funding for reconstruction approved thanks to the Soldiers' efforts.

One of the biggest concerns for Manahel primary school's teachers, in addition to rebuilding the destroyed school house, is rebuilding a bridge which leads to the main highway into Baghdad from the south and connects the communities of Maderiyah and Kutimiyah.

Aaron, a native of Middleboro, Mass., said the bridge allow farmers of Kutimiyah easier access to markets where they sell their crops.
Though details of the project haven't been finalized, Aaron said people in both communities simply want life to return to normal.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18118&Itemid=1

THANK YOU TROOPS! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gif

Loyal American

April 4th, 2008, 7:39 pm

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Iraqi Army Soldiers find caches near Shakeriyah
Friday, 04 April 2008

CAMP STRIKER, Iraq – Iraqi Army Soldiers from 3rd Battalion, 22nd Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division recovered caches containing more than a dozen mortar rounds and components near Shakeriyah April 2.

A local Iraqi approached the intelligence officer for 3rd Battalion, 22nd Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division with information on the location of two weapon caches. An Iraqi Army scout platoon accompanied the officer and citizen to the site where the munitions were found.

The caches included one 121 mm mortar, one 120 mm mortar, 12 60 mm mortars, 42 82 mm mortar fins, two rocket-propelled grenade warheads and a box containing 119 rounds of rifle ammunition.http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18122&Itemid=128

MND-C Soldiers discover weapons cache
Friday, 04 April 2008

CAMP STRIKER, Iraq – Soldiers with Company A, 3rd Battalion, 187th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) discovered a wide variety of items in a home south of Owesat April 1.

A tip from a local leader led to the cache consisting of three AK-47s, 11 60 mm mortars, 103 AK-47 rounds, a 9 mm pistol and multiple rounds of various weapons ammunition.
http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18123&Itemid=128

TROOPS AND IA GATHERING DIRTBAG CACHES OFF CITIZEN TIPS!

GREAT TEAM WORK!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-16.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gif

AEOakley

April 5th, 2008, 12:34 am

Iraqi Security Forces discover weapons caches, detain key suspect in separate operations (Mahmudiyah)
Multi-National Division – Center PAO

CAMP VICTORY, Iraq – Iraqi Security Forces, in a joint effort with Coalition forces, detained a key suspect in the area of Mahmudiyah April 3.

In a separate location, a tip from a local resident led Iraqi Army Soldiers to a weapons cache in Suwayrah.

The cache included two explosively formed projectiles, two rocketpropelled grenade launchers, two Katusha rockets, an anti-tank rocket and one PKC with 500 rounds.

In southeastern Baghdad, an Iraqi citizen led Soldiers from Company C, 1st Battalion, 187th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) to a cache.

The cache included two 107 mm rockets, 200 DSHKA rounds, various rocket and mortar parts, and 34 120 mm projectiles.

Iraqi citizens continue to reject criminal activity and are assisting the Iraqi Security Forces to defend their communities.

:clap::clap::clap:

Found here: http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18124&Itemid=128

Loyal American

April 5th, 2008, 9:42 pm

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Coalition forces conduct airstrike in Basra, one criminal killed
Saturday, 05 April 2008

BAGHDAD – Coalition aircraft conducted a precision strike in support of Iraqi Security Forces in Basra Friday, killing an armed criminal.

After receiving reports that Iraqi Security Forces were under attack and taking small-arms fire from a building, Coalition forces employed an unmanned aerial vehicle to observe and confirm the target in Basra’s Haiyaniya district. A rotary-winged aircraft then conducted the strike. An armed criminal was confirmed killed in the precision airstrike.

"Coalition forces are providing surveillance and reconnaissance platforms, as well as support aircraft, on an as-requested basis for Iraqi Security Forces in Basra," said Cmdr. Scott Rye, MNF-I spokesman. “We strongly support the Government of Iraq and Iraqi Security Forces in their efforts to enforce the rule of law and disrupt criminal activity.”

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18152&Itemid=21

Two terrorists killed West of Samarra
Saturday, 05 April 2008

BAGHDAD – Coalition forces killed two terrorists in central Iraq Friday, during an operation targeting al-Qaeda in Iraq regional leadership.

Intelligence sources led Coalition forces to the terrorists' location west of Samarra. As Coalition forces approached, the terrorists attempted to evade capture by driving off a paved road and into a rural area. Coalition forces pursued them and engaged the terrorists' vehicle to stop it, killing the terrorists and igniting the vehicle. Explosions from weapons and ammunition came from inside the vehicle.

"Al-Qaeda in Iraq is an adaptive, lethal enemy, but they will find no safe haven," said Maj. Winfield Danielson, MNF-I spokesman. "A tough fight remains ahead, but Iraqi and Coalition forces will continue to target the terrorist networks, capturing or killing their members and improving security for the Iraqi people."

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18128&Itemid=21

GREAT JOB, TROOPS!

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-16.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gif

Loyal American

April 5th, 2008, 9:43 pm

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Army Staff Sgt. Shane Hansen (left), a section sergeant in Company D, 3rd Battalion, 158th Aviation Regiment, poses for a picture with his older brother, Army Sgt. 1st Class Zane Hansen, a platoon sergeant in Troop T, 4th Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, at Camp Taji, Iraq. Photo by Sgt. Brandon Little, USA

Brothers Reunite in Iraq

CAMP TAJI, Iraq, April 4, 2008 – Throughout their military careers, Army Staff Sgt. Shane Hansen and his brother, Army Sgt. 1st Class Zane Hansen, have always been on opposite sides of the world.

Over the years, as they got married, had children and were stationed in different places, they haven’t had many chances to see each other. But an unexpected mission change, combined with a little good fortune, brought them together in Iraq.

Shane, who is stationed in Katterbach, Germany, deployed to Logistics Support Area Anaconda in July; Zane, who is stationed in Fort Hood, Texas, learned in November his unit also would deploy to Iraq.

When Task Force 12 received the mission of becoming the aviation task force for Multinational Division Baghdad, the Hansen brothers found their first opportunity to be stationed together.

“I was excited when I found out we would be here together, because the last time I saw (Zane), before this deployment, was at our parents’ house in August of 2004,” said Shane, a section sergeant in Company D, 3rd Battalion, 158th Aviation Regiment. “We usually get to see each other about once every five years.”

CLICK on below photo to read more:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/scr_080404-A-xxxxL-81.jpg (http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=49470)

THANK YOU SFC AND SSG HANSEN! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththththAmericanFlag-Animated--10.gif

AND WORK AROUND THE SHIFTS AND DAYS TO SEE EACH OTHER! ;)

Loyal American

April 5th, 2008, 9:49 pm

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Informant’s Tip Leads to Multiple Enemy Weapons, Munitions
Saturday, 05 April 2008

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FOB KALSU — In the early morning of April 2, Iraqi Army (IA) Soldiers with 5th Battalion, 25th Brigade, 6th IA Division, questioned a suspected insurgent who said he knew the location of buried weapons.

"For the past couple of weeks the IA had been hearing about a guy who used to work with al-Qaida and he stayed in the area and he didn't flee like the rest did," said Staff Sgt. Ronald Satterwhite, a section chief with Battery B.

The man admitted to knowing the approximate location of the weapons cache.

According to IA Soldiers, he needed his brother's assistance to find the exact location. The brother is another known collaborator with al-Qaida.
The Soldiers of Battery B, 1st Battalion, 9th Field Artillery, 2nd BCT, 3rd Infantry Division rolled out of Joint Security Site W-1, informant in tow, to pay his brother a visit.

Satterwhite, of Glenville, Ga., said he and his fellow Soldiers had been trying to speak with the brother for two weeks but were unable to find him each time they went to his residence. Tonight, fortune favored Battery B.

"We just got lucky, he immediately knew what we were going after ... it didn't take too much talking to him to get him to take us to where they (the weapons) were," Satterwhite said.

With both brothers assisting, it was a matter of minutes before the Soldiers were digging up the first of five weapon caches.

At the first cache site, beside a road in the dirt wall of a canal, they found three separate weapon caches consisting of (45) rocket propelled grenade warheads, (300) PKC heavy machine gun rounds, (37) mortar and projectile fuses, one DSHKA .50 caliber machine gun with (500) rounds of ammunition and one anti-personnel mine.

In a farm field adjacent to the road, the informants also dug up a complete 81 mm mortar system.

While the Soldiers waited for an explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) team to arrive they learned the informants knew of a few more weapons stashes.

Walking just south of the first cache site, the brothers stopped first in a field to pick up an RPG launcher next at a farm house where they also located machine gun ammunition.

They next took the Soldiers to a culvert to dig up another 81 mm mortar tube, then to a buried (55) gallon barrel containing a PKC machine gun and (2000) PKC machine gun rounds.

The Soldiers collected the additional weapons and returned to meet the EOD team who was already at the site of the first cache preparing the find for disposal.

All weapons and munitions found were gathered and destroyed by an EOD team controlled detonation.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18131&Itemid=1

I LOVE POSTS LIKE THIS...AND THE DIRTBAG CACHES GO POOF, POOF AND POOF!

AWESOME JOB TROOPS! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-16.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gif

Loyal American

April 5th, 2008, 10:34 pm

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Joint pediatric clinic for Iraqi Police SWAT families
Saturday, 05 April 2008

TIKRIT, Iraq – Coalition forces stood up a joint pediatric clinic for the families of Iraqi Police Special Weapons and Tactics team at Forward Operating Base Sykes April 2.

The goal of the pediatric clinic was to demonstrate goodwill and extend a heartfelt, “Thank you” from Coalition forces to Iraqi Security Forces, and to improve relationships between U.S. and ISWAT Soldiers, as well as local Iraqi doctors in Tal Afar,

The clinic placed emphasis on identifying surgical and sub-specialty health care needs. As a result, more than 25 referrals and consultations were conducted. The medical staff, consisting of more than 50 U.S. Forces personnel and three local doctors, evaluation and treated 54 ISWAT families totaling more than 75 children and 20 adults.

Additionally, Soldiers and FOB personnel distributed more than 150 meals, more than 500 toys, school supplies and multivitamins.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18130&Itemid=128

AHHHH, SO SWEET!

THANK YOU, TROOPS!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-16.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gif

Loyal American

April 5th, 2008, 10:45 pm

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Humanitarian Aid Continues in Wasit
Saturday, 05 April 2008

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AL KUT — Coalition forces distributed food supplies and wheelchairs in two villages around al Kut, April 2. Salvadoran Soldiers from the Cuscatlán battalion distributed 350 bags of food, each containing a 15-day supply of food, to a village near Shaikh Sa’ad and the village of al Sheeb.

“We are always trying to help as much as possible,” said Col. Walter M. Arévalo, commander of the Cuscatlán battalion X rotation.

Twelve wheelchairs were provided to the residents of the villages.
“You have residents with problems of mobility, who’ve had this problem for a while,” Arévalo said. “Something as simple as providing a wheelchair can be a big difference.”

The distribution comes after several days of skirmishes between Iraqi security forces and criminals in al Kut.

“After the recent period of tension in al Kut,” Arévalo said, “the population could not go out because of the affects of the conflict, but we cannot forget about the population.”

Along with the food distribution, representatives from the Cuscatlán battalion’s civil military cooperation team and the Wasit provincial reconstruction team discussed possible projects for the villages with local leaders.

The small village near Shaikh Sa’ad is home to 70 families and a primary school for boys and girls. The school is used by five surrounding villages, with approximately 300 students. Future projects considered include refurbishing the school, fixing the roof and paving a road from the main road directly to the school, making it more accessible to surrounding communities.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18133&Itemid=1

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-16.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gif

Rhonda

April 6th, 2008, 12:29 am

Loyal American

April 6th, 2008, 12:30 am

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IP detains 2 launching Iranian-made rockets (Baghdad)
Saturday, 05 April 2008

BAGHDAD – Iraqi Police detained two criminals preparing three Iranian-made rockets for an attack south of Baghdad April 2.

The apprehension came following tips from an Iraqi citizen and the local Abna al-Iraq, or Sons of Iraq.

The rockets have been secured and turned over to Coalition forces.

Iraqi citizens and Sons of Iraq have been working with the IP to assist in enforcing the rule of law and disrupting criminal activity.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18157&Itemid=21

AWESOME JOB CITIZENS, SOI AND IP

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gif

Rhonda

April 6th, 2008, 12:35 am

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IP detains 2 launching Iranian-made rockets (Baghdad)
Saturday, 05 April 2008

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18157&Itemid=21

AWESOME JOB CITIZENS, SOI AND IP

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-16.gif

WOOHOO!!! I love when they get their weapons...:flag:

Iranian made:evil:

Loyal American

April 6th, 2008, 10:02 am

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One terrorist killed, 22 detained in Coalition operations
Sunday, 06 April 2008

BAGHDAD – Coalition forces killed one terrorist and detained 22 suspected terrorists during operations in central and northern parts of the country Sunday targeting al-Qaeda in Iraq.

Coalition forces targeted a close associate of a senior AQI leader in Baghdad who attacks Sons of Iraq groups in Anbar province. When the ground force moved into the target building, they encountered a man with a weapon. Perceiving hostile intent, Coalition forces engaged and killed the armed man. Eight suspected terrorists were detained during the operation.

Also in Baghdad, Coalition forces conducted a precision operation capturing an alleged weapons facilitator who is believed to have ties to a senior AQI leader in the city.

Farther north, Coalition forces detained three suspected terrorists during an operation in Bayji. One of the suspects was wanted for his alleged role in planning bombing attacks, as well as his association with weapons facilitation and assassinations.

Coalition forces carried out three missions in Ninawa province targeting the AQI network. Using information from an operation Apr. 3, the ground force detained three suspected foreign terrorist facilitators in Mosul and six more near the Syrian border. One additional suspected terrorist was detained in Mosul during a mission targeting an AQI leader.

“We are eroding the very foundation of al-Qaeda in Iraq’s operations,” said Navy Capt. Vic Beck, MNF-I spokesman. “These foreign terrorists have no place in the future the Iraqi people have chosen.”

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18165&Itemid=128

GOOD JOB TROOPS, THANK YOU!http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththclap3-28.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gif

Loyal American

April 6th, 2008, 10:54 am

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Iraqi Security Forces rescue 42 kidnapped students (Mosul)
Sunday, 06 April 2008

MOSUL, Iraq – The Iraqi Army rescued 42 college students after they were kidnapped by insurgents in southwestern Mosul April 6.

The Iraqi Army detained one suspect, and Iraqi Police are currently searching for additional suspects.

After Iraqi Security Forces reported the kidnapping, a Coalition force aircraft spotted a suspicious vehicle thought to contain the students.

The insurgents fled the scene after the vehicle was stopped.

Some of the students left the area but were picked up by Iraqi Security Forces while others made their way a nearby Iraqi Security Forces combat outpost.

All 42 students are accounted for and are safe.

The Iraqi Army detained one of the insurgents at a nearby house. Iraqi and Coalition forces continue to search for others individuals involved in the kidnapping.

“Today’s efforts by the Iraqi Security Forces display not only their commitment to tracking down insurgents, but also their ability to secure the future of Iraq,” said Maj. Gary Dangerfield, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment spokesperson.

The incident is under investigation by the Iraqi Security Forces.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18183&Itemid=21

OUTSTANDING JOB IA! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththclap3-28.gif

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gif

AEOakley

April 6th, 2008, 11:42 am

A U.S. Army Apache helicopter destroys a structure containing weapons with one Hellfire missile.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2AdUfAm1aiM

:flag: :clap: :flag:

Apache helicopters discover five individuals emplacing an Improvised Explosive Device in the road. Apaches engage individuals and IED with Hellfire missile.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ByPMgW2fty4

Loyal American

April 6th, 2008, 12:52 pm

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Salvadoran Battalion Delivers Medical Supplies in Kut
Sunday, 06 April 2008

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FORWARD OPERATING BASE DELTA — The Salvadoran Cuscatlán Battalion delivered $4 million in medical supplies to the al Kut Director General of Health Warehouse April 1.

“It is very important to provide more resources to the people of Iraq. We want to provide supplies to those who need it,” said Col. Walter Arevalo, commander of Cuscatlán Battalion X.

Even though there is a heightened security risk, Arevalo said he felt honored that his Soldiers were called upon to fulfill this mission.

“It is important for the hospital to be able to provide support for people who need it,” he said. “The supplies will help them provide that support, and a lot of people need to get medical attention.”

The supplies, donated by the International Red Cross, are for Iraqis affected by the recent upsurge in violence by criminals.

The Iraqi Security Forces in Wasit province clashed with criminals for five days. According to Iraqi Police reports, seven Iraqis were killed and 14 were injured. Eleven IPs were killed, and 42 were injured. At least 43 criminals were killed, and more than 40 were injured.

The al Kut medical facilities generally have a small quantity of supplies and are in dire need of blood, said Dr. Ammar Bashar, director general of the al Salam Emergency Medical Clinic. Al Kut’s limited medical supply was further depleted when the Kut Ministry of Health provided Basra with medical supplies to treat Iraqis injured in the uprising there, said Bashar.

The donated supplies will replenish what was used during the civil unrest in the city and will increase supplies on hand.

The warehouse will distribute the supplies in the following weeks to three medical facilities in al Kut. One is a 150-bed emergency clinic and the other two are 400-bed hospitals, Bashar said. The supplies will be used for emergency and specialty care.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18186&Itemid=1

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-17.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gif

Loyal American

April 6th, 2008, 1:47 pm

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One terrorist killed, three detained in Coalition operations
Sunday, 06 April 2008

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition forces killed one terrorist and detained 3 suspected terrorists Saturday during operations targeting al-Qaeda in Iraq regional leadership.

West of Balad, Coalition forces targeted an individual associated with a senior AQI leader in the region responsible for extortion, kidnappings and weapons facilitation. After seeing Coalition forces approach, the targeted individual attempted to flee by driving away. Coalition forces fired at the vehicle in order to stop it. The terrorist was killed in the ensuing engagement as he attempted to escape.

Coalition forces conducted an operation in Mosul targeting an individual allegedly involved in the facilitation of suicide bombers and foreign terrorists. Coalition forces detained two suspected terrorists from the target building, but one man ran several blocks to a mosque. Surveillance teams followed him, and while Iraqi Army elements were arriving to assist Coalition forces, the man came out of the mosque with a crowd of people leaving prayers. The man was identified by the surveillance team and individuals from the initial target building, and was detained outside. At no time did Coalition forces enter the mosque.

“While terrorists continually show disregard for sacred Muslim sites, Coalition forces take great care to honor the sanctity of mosques and other holy sites,” said Maj. Winfield Danielson, MNF-I spokesman. “The people of Iraq have rejected al-Qaeda in Iraq’s Taliban-like ideology.”

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18160&Itemid=21

SWEET JOB TROOPS! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-17.gif

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gif

Loyal American

April 6th, 2008, 3:42 pm

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MND-C MEDEVAC Unit Supports Fight South of al Hillah
Sunday, 06 April 2008

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CAMP STRIKER — Over the last week, the Multi-National Division - Center combat aviation brigade has provided valuable support to the Iraqi Security Forces who are battling Shia extremists in the al Hillah area.

More than 100 medical evacuation missions have been conducted to get ISF and civilians immediate medical care.

Capt. Michael Kelly, aero-medical evacuation helicopter team leader with Company C, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Aviation Regiment, flies MEDEVAC missions south of al Hillah and toward al Kut, in areas where fighting between ISF and criminal groups have picked up in recent days.

“We assist enemy, Iraqi Army and Iraqi Police,” said Kelly of the injured people his unit flies to Coalition forces facilities. His unit is currently attached to Combat Aviation Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division.

On a recent mission, Kelly’s helicopter transported a man targeted as a high value individual by Coalition forces. The man had been seriously injured in the fighting, having been shot in the leg with the bullet severing his femoral artery.

Within 12 minutes of being called, Kelly’s helicopter landed in a soccer field south of Hillah. The pilots had been told that there were enemy still in the area, but Apache helicopters from 1st Battalion, 3rd Aviation Regiment, 3rd CAB were circling overhead as protection. Minutes later, they had the man at the hospital, saving his life and giving military intelligence another source of information on enemy operations.

Capt. Bryon Blohm, executive officer, Co. C, 2nd Battalion, 238th Aviation Regiment, said his MEDEVAC helicopters have been working hard to support the ISF and civilians in his unit’s area of operations south of Hillah. Much of what they’ve seen has been wounds suffered because of combat, he said.

The MEDEVAC unit has picked up plenty of civilians caught in the fighting as well, Kelly added.

He said there is no distinction between enemy or friendly forces when it comes to his unit transporting injured people to the hospital. Everyone being flown on his birds gets the same care. His unit recently transported an extremist who had sought medical attention from the ISF.

“Things like that we see all the time,” he said. “Anyone in our AO (area of operation) we support … It’s anybody and everybody.”

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18185&Itemid=1

GOD BLESS YOU AND THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththththAmericanFlag-Animated--11.gif

Loyal American

April 6th, 2008, 6:15 pm

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MND-B aerial weapons team kills 9 criminals
Sunday, 06 April 2008

BAGHDAD – An aerial weapons team from Multi-National Division – Baghdad killed nine Special Groups criminals who attacked Iraqi Army soldiers with rocket-propelled grenades in Baghdad at approximately 8 a.m. April 6.

After they were observed firing rocket-propelled grenades at the Iraqi Army soldiers, the air weapons team engaged the attackers by firing a Hellfire missile killing three.

The team identified four more criminals fleeing the scene and attempting to their hide weapons in a vehicle. The AWT fired a missile and destroyed the vehicle, killing six criminals.

No Coalition forces or civilian casualties have been reported.

“Iraqi Security Forces and MND-Baghdad and will continue to target the enemies of this city with precise and decisive action” said Lt. Col. Steve Stover, Multi-National Division – Baghdad spokesman. “Criminals continue to shoot at Iraqi Security and Coalition and forces without regard to the innocent, whereas we take every precaution to protect Baghdad’s citizens.”

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18195&Itemid=21

9 MORE DIRTBAGS OUT OF COMMISSION!

GREAT JOB!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gif

Loyal American

April 6th, 2008, 9:51 pm

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Criminal killed in foiled assassination attempt
Sunday, 06 April 2008

BAGHDAD – One criminal was killed and two were wounded in a failed assassination attempt against a high-level police official in Babil Province, April 5.

The attack was directed against the convoy of the Hamza chief of police.
The convoy was ambushed by the three criminals, but it was repelled by Iraqi Police.

The wounded criminals were arrested by the IP and taken to a local hospital.

There were no IP casualties and the chief of police was not injured in the attack.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18201&Itemid=21

Iraqi Army finds second cache in Shakariyah
Sunday, 06 April 2008

CAMP STRIKER, Iraq – For the second time in a week, Iraqi Army soldiers from 22nd Brigade, 11th Iraqi Army Division uncovered a weapons cache in Shakariyah April 4.

A local sheikh led the soldiers to the site where they found potential improvised explosive devices.

The cache contained 120 mm mortar rounds, 57 mm rounds, more than 20 anti-personnel landmines, a propane tank and miscellaneous explosive materials.

The cache was transported to a local patrol base for disposal.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18202&Itemid=21

ISF detain one suspected criminal element leader, five others in separate operations
Sunday, 06 April 2008

BALAD, Iraq – Iraqi Security Forces, advised by U.S. Special Forces, detain one suspected criminal element leader and five additional suspects in two separate operations April 4.

In Baghdad, Iraqi Special Operations Forces captured one suspected criminal element leader suspected in attacks against Iraqi and Coalition forces. He is also believed to extort money from ISF and local nationals in the area. Another suspect is being held for questioning. During the operation, ISOF received small arms fire and returned fire killing one.

In the Shuhada area of al-Kut, a concerned citizen reported a weapons cache to the al-Kut Iraqi Special Weapons and Tactics unit. At the location, Al-Kut ISWAT found and confiscated a 60mm mortar system, AK-47 assault rifles, rocket propelled grenade launchers, RPG rounds, RPG boosters, and cases of small arms ammunition. Four suspects at the scene were detained for questioning.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18203&Itemid=21

HOOAH!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gif

Loyal American

April 7th, 2008, 8:21 am

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththth02paper-17.gif
ISF capture criminal element leader, suspected AQI terrorist in separate operations
Monday, 07 April 2008

BALAD, Iraq – Iraqi Security Forces, advised by U.S. Special Forces, captured a suspected criminal element leader and suspected al-Qaeda in Iraq terrorist in two separate operations April 6.

In the Dhi Qar province, the Nasiriyah Iraqi Special Weapons and Tactics unit conducted an operation to capture a leader of a criminal network. He is linked to multiple assassination attempts against Iraqi and Coalition forces in the Dhi Qar province, and is said to have knowledge of the explosively formed penetrator and improvised explosive device smuggling networks in the area.

In Mosul, Iraqi Special Operations Forces detained one suspected al-Qaeda in Iraq terrorist reported to be involved in the smuggling of weapons for use against Iraqi and Coalition forces. The suspect is also believed to have been involved IED attacks for AQI in the area.

One other suspect is being held for further questioning.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18207&Itemid=21

WAY TO GO ISF AND USSF! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-17.gif

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gif

Loyal American

April 7th, 2008, 8:49 am

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththth02paper-17.gif
Coalition Forces kill criminal, destroy vehicle used in rocket attack (Baghdad)
Monday, 07 April 2008

BAGHDAD – A Multi-National Division – Baghdad aerial weapons team killed a criminal and destroyed a vehicle used in transporting rocket-launching rails in the eastern Baghdad district of New Baghdad at approximately 6 a.m. April 7.

An MND-B aerial surveillance platform observed criminals launch four 107mm rockets from a known rocket launching site, targeting a forward operating base at approximately 5:30 a.m.

After observing the criminals depart the area in a white van an aerial weapons team was called in to follow the vehicle. Once the van parked, the aerial weapons team launched two Hellfire missiles and destroyed the vehicle and its driver.

“We killed a terrorist from a rocket team involved in the rocket attacks on the International Zone in Baghdad,” said Col. Allen Batschelet, chief of staff, MND-B. “Along with our Iraqi Security Force partners, we will continue to hunt down these criminals and bring to justice those who ignore al-Sayyid Moqtada al-Sadr’s cease-fire pledge. Rocket attacks directed against Iraqi or Coalition forces or innocent Iraqi civilians will be dealt with quickly and severely.“

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18210&Itemid=21

HOOAH!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-17.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gif

Loyal American

April 7th, 2008, 11:24 am

Soldiers Restore Honor to Old Glory

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/080406_fea3_med.jpg
Pilots from Company C, 2nd Battalion, 238th General Support Aviation Brigade, a National Guard unit from Shelbyville, Ind., conducted a flyover at the flag-raising ceremony held at Forward Operating Base Delta, Iraq, March 22. More than 150 U.S. Soldiers and civilians attended the ceremony for a flag that had lain on the grounds of a Georgia apartment complex for almost a week in February until it was taken by Dan Turner, a passerby, who sent it to Iraq to have its honor restored. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Stacy Niles.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18187&Itemid=1

This story made front page at MNF-I! :flag::clap::flag::clap:

I was pleased, being a Hoosier, to see Indiana Guard participated in this mission! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gif

If you missed the strory and all the great photos Dan Turner gave us CLICK on below link:

http://forums.hannity.com/showpost.php?p=24875453&postcount=4580

AEOakley

April 7th, 2008, 12:29 pm

Footage of an Apache crew killing nine criminals who attacked Iraqi army soldiers with rocket propelled grenades. The Apache fired Hellfire missiles, killing three criminals and then killing six more criminals fleeing the scene. Provided by Multi-National Division Baghdad.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l8nV1I6WoHk

Loyal American

April 7th, 2008, 2:53 pm

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King of Battle Still Reigns
Monday, 07 April 2008

MOSUL — The urban terrain of Operation Iraqi Freedom limits the use of large cannons and field artillery units. The days of all out destruction and artillery raining down from the skies seem to be over. But there are still uses for these Soldiers and instances in which destruction with precision accuracy is vital to the U.S. Army’s mission success.

The Redleg Soldiers of Howitzer Battery, 3d Armored Cavalry Regiment are one of the few field artillery units executing their area of expertise in Iraq today.

The term “Redleg” comes from a time when Cannons were much simpler and the field artilleryman’s uniform was much different. The Army blue uniform for artillerymen had a two-inch red stripe on the trousers and horse artillerymen wore red canvas leggings, distinguishing themselves from other Soldiers.

The Cannons used by Redleg Soldiers were towed by man, horse or mule, providing no protection to the crew operating it. Misfires, muzzle bursts and exploding weapons were not uncommon. Accuracy and reliability were questionable.

Today, the U.S. Army’s M109A6 Paladin self-propelled 155mm howitzer is a tracked vehicle that can reach out and touch a target accurately from 30 km away.

Howitzer Battery uses several strategically placed Paladins located at Badoush Prison located just outside the northern Ninewa province city of Mosul, to support ground troop movement in the area. They conduct an average of three fire missions a night from the combat outpost there, mostly illumination rounds.

“Our role is to support troops in contact with indirect fire, whether it be with 155mm high explosive rounds, Excalibur (guided munitions) or illumination rounds,” said Howitzer Battery Fire Directions Chief, Staff Sgt. Gustavo Martinez.

CLICK on photo to read more:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/080407_sod_med.jpg (http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18214&Itemid=1)

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gif

Loyal American

April 7th, 2008, 3:10 pm

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththth02paper-17.gif ..... Time for an Afghanistan update!

Afghan, U.S. Forces Capture Militants in Nuristan Province Raid

WASHINGTON, April 7, 2008 – Afghan and coalition security forces operating in Afghanistan’s Nuristan province cleared Kendal and Shok villages of insurgents and captured several suspects yesterday, military officials reported, while coalition troops and Afghan police seized two militants in operations in Khowst province.

The combined Afghan-U.S. force repelled the attack with accurate small-arms fire and crew-served weapons. During the long battle, the insurgents reinforced their positions in several compounds with large groups of fighters. Close-air support was called upon to dislodge the heavily armed insurgents from their reinforced defensive positions.

After neutralizing the threat, the combined force detained numerous insurgents, secured several compounds, and discovered fully loaded weapons and stores of ammunition.

There were no reports of civilian casualties, officials said. Following a thorough search of the areas, the combined Afghan and U.S. forces withdrew from the area with the detained personnel under the control of Afghan National Police participating in the mission.

Kendal and Shok villages have long been identified as insurgent strongholds, officials said. Villagers in the area have lived in fear of insurgents supporting the Hizb-E-Islami Gulbuddin terrorist organization. This operation will significantly reduce the terrorists’ ability to conduct future operations in the area, according to military officials.

In other news from Afghanistan, two suspected militants were detained yesterday during a joint Afghan police and coalition forces counterinsurgency operation in Khowst province, military officials reported.

Afghan national police and coalition troops searched compounds in the Sabari district as they searched for a militant sub-commander linked to roadside bomb attacks in the area. During their search, Afghan police confirmed that militants were not hiding or storing weapons or roadside bombs in a mosque on the compound. Two individuals with suspected links to the targeted senior militant were detained, and an AK-47 rifle was confiscated during the operation.

“Mindful of cultural sensitivities, only Afghan National Police entered the mosque to ensure it was not being inappropriately used by militants, and any individuals inside were unharmed,” said Army Maj. Chris Belcher, a coalition forces spokesman. “Coalition forces remained outside the mosque, ensuring non-combatant civilians on the compound were protected from possible hostilities.”

http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=49493

OUR TROOPS AND ANP KICKIN' BEHIND! :cool:

AWESOME JOB, THANK YOU! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-17.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gif

Loyal American

April 7th, 2008, 3:33 pm

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Coalition forces detain four suspected Special Groups criminals
Monday, 07 April 2008

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition forces detained four suspected Iranian-backed Special Groups criminals and killed an individual who displayed hostile intent during an operation in Baghdad Monday.

Coalition forces targeted a key member of a logistics network allegedly working with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps - Quds Force to move explosively formed penetrators (EFPs) and other weapons into Iraq. The individual is also suspected of distributing weapons to Special Groups criminals in the Baghdad area.

Upon entering a targeted building, Coalition forces encountered an individual who displayed hostile intent by rushing at them . Acting in self-defense, Coalition forces engaged and killed the man. Coalition forces then secured the area and detained the four suspects without further incident.

“Coalition forces will continue to seek out suspected criminals who threaten the peace and security of Iraqi citizens,” said Cmdr. Scott Rye, MNF-I spokesman. “We will not tolerate those who choose to defy the cease-fire pledge of al-Sayyid Moqtada al-Sadr,”

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18235&Itemid=128

FANTASTIC JOB TROOPS!

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-17.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gif

Loyal American

April 7th, 2008, 4:28 pm

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththth02paper-17.gif .... Air crews are very busy, this makes strike two and three today, in Baghdad area!

AWT destroys rocket-launch rails (Baghdad)
Monday, 07 April 2008

BAGHDAD – A Multi-National Division – Baghdad aerial weapons team destroyed a structure housing rocket-launch rails in eastern Baghdad at approximately 1:15 p.m. April 7.

An MND-B aerial weapons team observed criminals recovering rocketlaunch rails following a rocket attack. An aerial weapons team was called in for support.

The team launched a hellfire missile, destroying the structure and the rails.

“We remain relentless in our pursuit of these criminal elements,” said Col. Allen Batschelet, MND-B chief of staff. “We will continue to hunt down the criminals ignoring al-Sayyid Muqtada al-Sadr’s ceasefire pledge and take away their ability to launch these cowardly attacks.”

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18236&Itemid=128

Aircraft drops bomb on criminal mortar site (Baghdad)
Monday, 07 April 2008

BAGHDAD – A U.S. Air Force F-16 dropped a low-yield bomb on a mortar launching site after a Multi-National Division – Baghdad observation team saw criminals emplacing mortars in the New Baghdad district at 2:30 p.m. April 7.

A joint security station had reported receiving a mortar round near their location in the New Baghdad district.

After a second 82 mm round impacted near the JSS, an aerial surveillance team determined the two mortars’ point of origin.

Iraqi Security Forces called in a U.S. Army Apache air weapons team that engaged and killed the mortar crew with a Hellfire missile.

An F-16 then dropped a lowyield bomb on the mortar site.

“Based on a review of the surveillance video we do not believe there were any civilian casualties as a result of this attack,” said Col. Bill Buckner, spokesman for Multi-National Corps – Iraq.

More information will be released as it becomes available.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18237&Itemid=128

DIRTBAGS CAN'T HIDE FROM OUR AIR CREWS!

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-17.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gif

Loyal American

April 7th, 2008, 5:05 pm

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Bastogne Soldiers Remove Al-Qaida in Iraq Chokehold on Samarra Passageway
Monday, 07 April 2008

SAMARRA — After completion of a recent operation reconnecting old economic partners, the people of the northern-Iraqi city of Samarra can breathe again.

The “Bastogne” Soldiers of the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division, recently finished conducting multiple operations that cleared al-Qaida fighters and other enemy extremist from the desert areas west and south of Samarra, including the southern portion of the city.

Over the past year al-Qaida in Iraq (AQI) has had a chokehold on the “Fallujah Road”, the main road between al Anbar province’s population centers and Samarra.

They have operated freely on and around the Salah ad Din Province portion of the route, restricting travel between the two areas.

Al-Qaida had forced civilian traffic to alternate routes, choking this critical economic line of communication. The enemy did this by hijacking and kidnapping drivers; preying upon helpless travelers and truck drivers in the secluded areas of the desert away from security forces.

According to Maj. Jim DeOre, 2nd Battalion, 327th Infantry Regiment operations officer, “this had many Iraqis traveling considerable distances out of the way, forcing them to use a great deal of fuel and energy in the process.

“The restriction of travel on this route strangled the economic growth of the city and its surrounding towns and villages,” said DeOre. “Opening this road displays to the Iraqis that Iraqi security (ISF) and coalition forces (CF) are making positive gains in their efforts to remove AQI’s criminal influence over the people.”

CLICK on photo to read more:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/080407_fea3_med.jpg (http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18228&Itemid=1)

TERRIFIC TROOPS!

THANK YOU! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-17.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gif

AEOakley

April 7th, 2008, 6:41 pm

Coalition forces kill three terrorists, including one targeting SOI groups

April 7, 2008

BAGHDAD – Coalition forces killed three terrorists and detained seven suspected terrorists during operations Sunday and Monday targeting al-Qaeda in Iraq elements that coordinate and conduct attacks against civilians and security forces.

Near Taji Monday, Coalition forces targeted an individual who attacked Sons of Iraq groups with roadside bombs and has ties to AQI leaders in the Northern Belt. After the ground force secured one building, they were attacked by small arms fire from an individual in an adjacent building. Coalition forces responded to the hostile threat by engaging and killing the armed man. The terrorist who was killed was identified as the targeted individual. One additional suspected terrorist was detained in the operation.

During the engagement, two women were wounded. Coalition forces provided treatment on site and transported them to a military medical facility.

“Coalition forces go to great lengths to protect civilians, but Al-Qaeda in Iraq terrorists continue to put women and children in danger by hiding among civilians,” said Navy Lt. David Russell,, MNF-I spokesman.

Also Monday, Coalition forces followed up on information from an alleged weapons facilitator detained Sunday and targeted an AQI safe-house east of Balad where a leader in the Baghdad car-bombing network was believed to be staying. When Coalition forces arrived at the target building, they called for the occupants to come out. Several women and children complied, but two men failed to obey instructions and made threatening movements toward a nearby truck. Coalition forces perceived hostile intent and engaged them, killing both of the men.

Intelligence derived from operations Feb.21 and Mar. 30 led Coalition forces to a wanted man and two other suspected terrorists who were detained in Bayji Monday. The wanted man is believed to facilitate the movement of terrorists and materials and allegedly oversees bomb emplacement in the area.

Coalition forces detained three suspected terrorists Sunday in Mosul while targeting a known associate of al-Qaeda in Iraq regional leadership wanted for conducting and coordinating attacks against Iraqi and Coalition forces.

“Al-Qaeda in Iraq continues to attack Iraqis and the security forces charged with protecting them,” Russell said. “These terrorists will not be tolerated, and we will continue to target them and dismantle their organizations.”

From a MNF-Iraq press release: http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18233&Itemid=21

Loyal American

April 7th, 2008, 9:45 pm

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ISF recover weapons cache, kill 10 in separate operations in Basra
Monday, 07 April 2008

BALAD, Iraq – Iraqi Security Forces, advised by U.S. Special Forces, recovered a weapons cache and killed 10 criminals in separate operations in Basra April 3 and 4.

An Iraqi Emergency Response Unit conducted an operation to locate and eliminate weapon caches used by criminal members in the Mufaqiyah district.

The ERU unit located two caches, including 60 mm mortar rounds, rocket propelled grenades and explosively formed penetrators.

During another operation, the ISOF team came under heavy EFP, IED and smallarms fire attacks. The team returned fire killing two persons who were attacking ISOF.

Two Coalition force aircraft provided close-air support killing eight additional individuals involved in the attack.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18253&Itemid=128

SWEET JOB BY EVERYBODY!

THANK YOU! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-17.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gif

Rhonda

April 7th, 2008, 9:46 pm

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ISF recover weapons cache, kill 10 in separate operations in Basra
Monday, 07 April 2008

[/COLOR][/SIZE]

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18253&Itemid=128

SWEET JOB BY EVERYBODY!

THANK YOU! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-17.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gif

I love it when this happens...Great Job

Loyal American

April 8th, 2008, 8:07 am

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General Reflects on Improved Afghan Government, Security Forces

WASHINGTON, April 7, 2008 – Afghanistan’s government and national security forces have improved consistently over the past year, the outgoing commander of Regional Command East, part of NATO’s International Security Assistance Force, said today.

In the 13 months since Army Maj. Gen. David M. Rodriguez assumed command, Afghanistan’s national and local governments have flourished, institutions have gained strength, and the capacity of the country’s security forces continues to grow.

“For the first time in Afghanistan's history, governors are giving state-of-the-province addresses that present government accomplishments in an open, transparent forum to their constituents,” Rodriguez added.

Afghanistan’s national education system represents another breakthrough. While under Taliban control, the country had 1,000 schools. Today, Rodriguez said, there are about 9,000, and that number is growing daily.

Girls were barred from attending Taliban-regulated schools; now, some 70 percent of girls in Regional Command East have access to state-run education. The number of teachers over the same time has grown from 20,000 to about 160,000. Rodriguez also stressed improvements in health care and agriculture.

The general said progress by the country’s security forces has occurred “hand-in-hand” with government gains. Since early last year, the Afghan army has grown from 25,000 to 37,000 soldiers, with many Afghan troops now taking the lead on combined operations. The army also has established three elite battalion-sized units called commando kandaks.

CLICK on link to read full report:

http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=49491

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gif.........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gif.........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gif.........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gif.........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gif.........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gif.........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gif

Loyal American

April 8th, 2008, 11:45 am

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Village of Hope Gives Iraqis New Perspective
Tuesday, 08 April 2008

FORWARD OPERATING BASE KALSU — When an Air Force engineer first stepped foot in Hawr Rajab last December, a former al-Qaeda in Iraq safe haven, the thought that came to mind was a scene from an old western movie.

“Most of the businesses were shuttered and the main road was more comparable to the O.K. Corral,” said Capt. Josh Aldred, a native of Flagstaff, Ariz.

Four months later, AQI was gone and Aldred saw a community flourishing with business and hope.

Aldred was the primary instructor at the Village of Hope vocational school located on the grounds of Patrol Base Stone in Hawr Rajab. He ended his tour in Iraq April 3 and turned the project over to another Air Force captain.

Aldred and his 30-man team of engineer Airmen from the 557th Expeditionary Red Horse Squadron had been teaching the Village of Hope students the basics of construction, plumbing, electricity, masonry and well drilling. The overall goal is to teach residents of Hawr Rajab necessary skills to rebuild their war-torn community.

“The experience has been great and the students have been really receptive to learning new ideas and methods of construction,” he said. “This mission has been a big experiment for the Air Force and military engineers in general.”

CLICK on below photo to read more:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/080408_fea3_med.jpg (http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18285&Itemid=1)

MORE photo's from DOD:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/scr_080407-O-xxxx-581.jpg
Airmen from the 557th Expeditionary Rapid Engineer Deployable Heavy Operational Repair Squadron Engineers, or RED HORSE, Squadron teach masonry to Village of Hope students at Patrol Base Stone in Hawr Rajab, Iraq, April 2, 2008. Two hundred Hawr Rajab men, in four classes of 50, are scheduled to graduate from the vocational school.

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/scr_080407-O-xxxx-629.jpg
Village of Hope students lay pipe for a well in Hawr Rajab, Iraq, March 31, 2008. The students get both hands-on and classroom instruction from U.S. Air Force airmen during the three-month course. Courtesy photo

http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=49490

Great! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gif

Loyal American

April 8th, 2008, 1:57 pm

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UAV destroys rocket rails, mortar and 10 criminals (Baghdad)
Tuesday, 08 April 2008

BAGHDAD – A U.S. Air Force Predator observed four rocket rails in an open field in northeastern Baghdad at approximately noon April 8.

The unmanned aerial vehicle fired one Hellfire missile destroying all rocket rails after the UAV controllers determined there were no civilians in the area.

In a second engagement a Predator observed a group of armed criminals with rocket-propelled grenades and a mortar tube in northeast Baghdad at approximately 1:45 p.m.

The unmanned aerial vehicle engaged these criminals firing one Hellfire missile killing 10 criminals and wounding two.

“We are conducting precision air strikes against criminals firing mortars and rockets,” said Lt. Col. Steve Stover, a Multi-National Division – Baghdad spokesman.

“We are only targeting criminals who continue to ignore al-Sayyid Muqtada al-Sadr’s ceasefire pledge as they engage in a violent act or are about to conduct a violent act against the Iraqi people, their security forces and Coalition forces.”

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18286&Itemid=128

I CAN'T EVEN BELIEVE AN UAV DID ALL THIS!!!

AWESOME!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-17.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gif

Loyal American

April 8th, 2008, 3:24 pm

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Aerial weapons team kills mortar team (Baghdad)
Tuesday, 08 April 2008

BAGHDAD – A Coalition forces aerial weapons team killed two criminals and a destroyed a mortar tube at approximately 11:15 a.m. April 8.

These criminals fired two mortar rounds at Coalition forces in northeast Baghdad.

Moments later, an unmanned aerial vehicle observed the two criminals covering the tubes with a tarp and then hiding behind an adjacent building.

The AWT killed the criminals with one Hellfire missile.

The team fired a second Hellfire missile destroying the mortar tube.

“The quick and precise actions of Coalition forces disabled further violence on the Iraqi people,” said Maj. Jacqueline Patten, spokeswoman for Multi- National Division Baghdad. “We will continue to engage those who commit violent acts against the innocent, ignoring al-Sayyid Muqtada al-Sadr’s ceasefire pledge.”

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18288&Itemid=128

AIR POWER HAS BEEN OUTSTANDING FOR THE LAST TWO DAYS!

HOORAH! THANK YOU! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gif

BravoBuzzard

April 8th, 2008, 3:25 pm

Most of those are targeting the IZ. I am grateful of the pilots of those UAV's, as well as all the guys and gals who keep those thugs at bay.

Another story, you will not hear in the news. A resident of Sadr City Thawara 1, observed 4 men setting up rockets on 4 different rocket rails only 25 meters from his backdoor. He went out, hit one of the guys in his face, and told the others to take their rockets somewhere else, or he would go into his house, get his gun, and kill each and ever single one of them. 10 minutes later, he walked back out with his AK-47 with every intention to kill them, but they had already packed up their stuff and left the area.

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththth02paper-17.gif
UAV destroys rocket rails, mortar and 10 criminals (Baghdad)
Tuesday, 08 April 2008

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18286&Itemid=128

I CAN'T EVEN BELIEVE AN UAV DID ALL THIS!!!

AWESOME!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-17.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gif

Loyal American

April 8th, 2008, 4:05 pm

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththth02paper-17.gif
Afghanistan Operations Targeting Extremists Net Five Suspects

WASHINGTON, April 8, 2008 – Five suspects were caught yesterday during two separate operations targeting extremist networks in Afghanistan’s Uruzgan and Khowst provinces.

In an operation in Tirin Kot district, Uruzgan province, coalition forces searched the compounds of a known Taliban bomb facilitator responsible for several attacks in the province. Forces detained three suspects there.

In a separate operation, Afghan National Police and coalition forces searched compounds in the Nadir Shah Kot district, Khowst province, targeting a terrorist network leader charged with funneling foreign fighters and weapons into the area. Forces nabbed the leader along with another suspect.

In other operations in Afghanistan, coalition forces recovered a cache of weapons and bomb-making materials last week. Coalition forces searched compounds in the Garmsir district of Helmand province, looking for a Taliban insurgent accused of bringing weapons and bombs into the area. Forces found several small-arms weapons, rockets, rocket-propelled grenades, large-caliber rounds and bomb-making materials. The cache was destroyed.

http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=49505

CF AND ANP GETTIN' THE JOB DONE! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-17.gif

GREAT JOB, THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gif

Loyal American

April 8th, 2008, 4:06 pm

Most of those are targeting the IZ. I am grateful of the pilots of those UAV's, as well as all the guys and gals who keep those thugs at bay.

Another story, you will not hear in the news. A resident of Sadr City Thawara 1, observed 4 men setting up rockets on 4 different rocket rails only 25 meters from his backdoor. He went out, hit one of the guys in his face, and told the others to take their rockets somewhere else, or he would go into his house, get his gun, and kill each and ever single one of them. 10 minutes later, he walked back out with his AK-47 with every intention to kill them, but they had already packed up their stuff and left the area.

I hope MNF-I puts a release out on this story Bravo! Sometimes S&S picks it up and from there AP gets it out. I know the Iraqis have to be sick of the dirtbags lobbing their rockets any ol' place. It's not like they have a target most the time, just anywhere in the city, on a base....just lets get something, someone! It's insane! It's good to see the Iraqi citizens standing up to these rats, very brave of them to do so!

Loyal American

April 8th, 2008, 6:57 pm

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MND-N Soldiers find large cache during Operation Manchu Harvest III (Salah ad Din)
Tuesday, 08 April 2008

TIKRIT, Iraq – Multi-National Division – North Soldiers with the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division discovered a large weapons cache in Salah ad Din Province during a new operation this week.

Operation Manchu Harvest, which began April 4, is designed to remove insurgent activity in the region.

During the first week of the operation, Coalition force Soldiers discovered the weapons cache, which consisted of artillery rounds, mortar rounds, rockets, rocket propelled grenades, mortar fuses, an RPG launcher, hand grenades, suicide vests, a land-mine, more than 150 small-arms rounds of various sizes and over 60 pounds of IED making materials as well as other explosives.

“These significant cache finds continue to erode the enemy’s capabilities and will help to keep Iraqi citizens safe,” said Maj. Peggy Kageleiry, a Multi-National Division- North spokesman.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18287&Itemid=128

NICE FIND TROOPS, THANK YOU!!!
http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-17.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gif

Sceptic

April 8th, 2008, 7:09 pm

What happens when the troops leave?

Loyal American

April 8th, 2008, 8:10 pm

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ISOF snare terrorist and criminal suspects (Basra)
Tuesday, 08 April 2008

BAGHDAD – Iraqi Special Operations Forces deployed to Basra and other ISOF teams operating from their bases in Baghdad and Balad captured a dozen suspected terrorists and Special Group members during separate operations in the past week.

The operations were part of the Iraqi government’s continuing fight against terrorists, insurgents and criminals.

The operations focused on the disruption of criminal elements’ activities in the port city of Basra.

These groups are responsible for launching armed attacks resulting in the deaths of Iraqi Security Forces and innocent Iraqi citizens.

The ISOF operations sought to re-establish safety and security in Basra.

While serving arrest warrants, ISOF captured five suspects on the city’s west side.

The detainees are suspected of improvised explosive device attacks at a major street intersection.

During the operation, ISOF troops searched and cleared more than 30 buildings detecting and destroying nine IEDs.

The following day, ISOF troops entered and cleared an abandoned school used by criminals as a stronghold. They discovered a makeshift cache containing illegal weapons, ammunition and explosives. According to recent intelligence information, the criminal elements planted IEDs along the roads leading to the school.

They had also set up defensive fighting positions around the facility.

During the operation, Coalition closeair support killed 14 armed criminals firing on ISOF.

In Baghdad, ISOF troops detained a suspected al-Qaeda in Iraqi terrorist and two other suspects. The man is suspected of creating a suicide network and overseeing suicide attacks against Iraqi and Coalition forces around the capitol.

He is accused of forming a criminal group to conduct attacks against Coalition forces in Tahrir, southeast of Baghdad.

Another operation in Baghdad led to the capture of an criminal group leader on the city’s east side. Reports indicate his involvement in a series of attacks against Coalition forces and Iraqi citizens. His criminal cell is accused of extorting money from Iraqi Security Forces, contractors and civilians to pay for illegal weapons used to attack a Coalition base in September 2007.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18291&Itemid=21

SWEET JOB ISOF! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gif

Loyal American

April 8th, 2008, 9:17 pm

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Baqubah Special Weapons and Tactics unit detains six suspected AQI fighters
Tuesday, 08 April 2008

BALAD, Iraq – The Baqubah Special Weapons and Tactics unit, advised by U.S. Special Forces, detained six suspected al-Qaeda in Iraq fighters in an operation in Baqubah’s Shil’bah village April 8.

Baqubah SWAT conducted an operation to rid the village of AQI fighters.

The AQI had been using the area as a base for improvised explosive device and small-arms fire attacks against Iraqi Security and Coalition forces. The AQI fighters are also reported to use the village as a rest area, a prison and a meeting place for AQI leaders.

During the operation, six AQI terrorists were detained by Baqubah SWAT for transportation to a detention facility.

“Iraqi Security and Coalition forces remain relentless in the pursuit of these al-Qaeda terrorists,” said Col. Bill Buckner, spokesman for Multi-National Corps - Iraq. “We will continue to hunt down terrorists who put the Iraqi people in danger by hiding among civilians.”

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18293&Itemid=128

SIX DIRTBAGS OFF THE STREETS! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-17.gif

TERRIFIC JOB BAQUBAH SWAT AND USSF! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gif

Loyal American

April 8th, 2008, 9:49 pm

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U.S. Special Forces destroy AQI training camp, find large weapons cache in Jazeera Desert (Balad)
Tuesday, 08 April 2008

BALAD, Iraq – U.S. Special Forces destroyed an al-Qaeda in Iraqi training camp and large weapons cache during a multi-day operation April 2 to April 5 in the Jazeera Desert.

Acting on intelligence reports, U.S. SF Soldiers conducted the operation to verify enemy activities at an old radar station. The station was reportedly being used as an insurgent training camp and weapons cache site.

These forces secured the abandoned compound and cleared the site.

The cache included more than 20,000 rounds of 14.5 mm ammunition, SA-7 surface-to-air missiles, one SA-7 battery, 14.5 mm machine guns, 68 mm rockets, TNT, suicide-vest charges, hand grenades, 82 mm mortar tubes, 82 mm mortar rounds, one 120 mm mortar tube, one rocket-propelled grenade launcher, RPG warheads, and homemade explosives materials.

After the cache was secured, U.S. SF saw two white trucks approaching the compound. Each vehicle was visibly armed. The vehicles stopped short of the compound and one vehicle began a flanking maneuver.

Based on prior intelligence, the discovered cache, and the manner of movement by the vehicles, U.S. SF determined hostile intent and fired on the flanking vehicle.

The truck caught fire. The individuals inside the truck ran to the second truck and fled the area.

The U.S. SF called for Coalition airstrikes to destroy the training compound. Five of 18 structures were completely destroyed and the weapons cache items were either destroyed or transported away from the site.

“Iraqi Security and Coalition forces remain relentless in the pursuit of these al-Qaeda terrorists,” said Col. Bill Buckner, spokesman for Multi-National Corps - Iraq. “We will continue to hunt down terrorists who continue to put the Iraqi people in danger.”

HOOAH!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-17.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gif

Loyal American

April 8th, 2008, 11:20 pm

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Iraqi Army soldiers discover hundreds of mortar rounds (Rushdi Mullah)
Tuesday, 08 April 2008

CAMP STRIKER, Iraq – Soldiers from 4th Battalion, 25th Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division discovered a weapons cache containing nearly 300 mortar rounds near Rushdi Mullah April 7.

The cache contained 283 60 mm mortar rounds, four 120 mm mortar rounds, six smaller mortar rounds, three rocket-propelled grenade warheads, two pre-made cinderblock improvised explosive devices and 24 fuses.

The items were turned over to an explosive ordnance disposal team.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18296&Itemid=128

FANTASTIC FIND IA! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-17.gif

AND ANOTHER DIRTBAG CACHE GOES UP IN SMOKE!
http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gif

Loyal American

April 9th, 2008, 8:17 am

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththth02paper-17.gif .....Another UAV report, they are amazing to me! :D

UAV kills 2 criminals (Baghdad)
Wednesday, 09 April 2008

BAGHDAD – A U.S. Air Force Unmanned Aerial Vehicle observed a group of criminals with weapons attacking Iraqi Security and Coalition forces with small-arms fire in northeast Baghdad April 9.

The UAV fired one hellfire missile at 3:30 a.m. and killed two of the armed criminals.

“In direct partnership with the Iraqi Security Forces, we will protect the people of Baghdad from armed criminals,” said Lt. Col. Steve Stover, Multi-National Division – Baghdad and 4th Infantry Division spokesman. “We want to bring back security and stability to the eastern Baghdad districts in order to set the conditions for continued economical development.”

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18301&Itemid=128

IED weapons making facility destroyed in Diyala
Wednesday, 09 April 2008

TIKRIT, Iraq – While conducting clearing operations, Coalition force Soldiers discovered an improvised explosive device weapons making facility in Diyala Province April 8.

The facility was determined to be an imminent threat to Coalition force Soldiers on the ground, and after the area was cleared of any civilians, a U.S. Air Force F-18 destroyed the facility with a 500-pound bomb.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18300&Itemid=128

THANK YOU, GREAT JOB!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-17.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gif

Loyal American

April 9th, 2008, 8:35 am

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththth02paper-17.gif

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/scr_080407-M-9719V-015.jpg
Afghan National Police and Combined Security Transition Command Afghanistan personnel depart the new Adreskan Afghan National Civil Order Police training center April 7, 2008, in Afghanistan’s Herat province. U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Robert W. Cone, commanding general of Combined Security Transition Command Afghanistan, right, and Afghan Interior Minister Abdul Zarar Moqbal, left center, were among the guests at the center’s grand opening.

Afghanistan Opens New Civil Order Police Training Center

ADRESKAN, Afghanistan, April 8, 2008 – Afghan and American leaders celebrated the grand opening of a new facility for training Afghan National Civil Order Police here yesterday.

Afghan Interior Minister Abdul Zarar Moqbal and U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Robert W. Cone, commanding general of Combined Security Transition Command Afghanistan, participated in a grand opening ceremony then toured the Herat province facility with other CSTC-A and Afghan National Police personnel.

The opening of the Adreskan training center “means a greater capacity to train ANCOP, especially out here in the west,” said Army Col. Mark Russo, Regional Police Advisory Team West commander.

Afghans and Americans at the grand opening said the new facility is more than just a new training ground. It also is a symbol that the national police and the Afghan government are serious about providing for the security and protection of Afghans throughout their country, explained Army Sgt. 1st Class Christian Leva, team sergeant for Team Enforcer Police Mentor Team.

Local community leaders respond favorably to the national police having a training ground in Adreskan, Leva said. Building the facility had a positive influence on the local economy by providing jobs here, he added.

Also, many Afghans previously would only see the national policemen while they were patrolling or conducting missions seeking insurgents in the villages and districts, Leva said. Having a training center in Adreskan means ANCOP and other ANP will receive local training, and additional police in Herat province will reduce response time to insurgent and other criminal activities, he noted.

To read more CLICK on photo:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thm_080407-M-9719V-008.jpg (http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=49499)

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Loyal American

April 9th, 2008, 10:42 am

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Six detained in Coalition operations
Wednesday, 09 April 2008

BAGHDAD – Coalition forces detained six suspected terrorists during operations Tuesday and today targeting al-Qaeda in Iraq in Baghdad and northern Iraq.

Using information from an operation Feb. 23, Coalition forces captured an alleged al-Qaeda in Iraq – or AQI – leader and one other suspect in Bayji Tuesday. The same day, Coalition forces targeted other suspected terrorists in Baghdad during an operation in the city and detained two men.

In northwestern Iraq Tuesday, Coalition forces detained one suspected terrorist and safely destroyed the vehicle he was believed to be using to facilitate the movement of foreign terrorists.

Coalition forces targeted an individual today believed to oversee terrorist operations and have ties to senior AQI leadership. One suspected terrorist was detained in Mosul during the mission.

“Iraqi and Coalition forces continue to go after al-Qaeda in Iraq networks and members at every level,” said Maj. Winfield Danielson, MNF-I spokesman. “Although we’ve captured or killed a large number of the terrorists and their leaders, al-Qaeda in Iraq is still lethal and a tough fight remains ahead.”

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18304&Itemid=21

6 DIRTBAGS OUT OF JOBS!http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-17.gif

GOOD JOB CF, THANK YOU!http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-17.gif

AEOakley

April 9th, 2008, 12:11 pm

...just the images of these Iraqi children swarming around our awesome U.S. troops is enough!

Footage of Marines and Corpsmen visiting a school in Hawran, Iraq. Scenes include the Marines and Corpsmen providing stuffed animals to children and learning what medical needs the children need. Provided by 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (Fwd) Public Affairs.
:clap: :flag: :clap:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wi0g1r5m-YE

Loyal American

April 9th, 2008, 12:13 pm

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththth02paper-17.gif ..... Donkey, brick factory update! :mrgreen:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/scr_080408-A-xxxx-003.jpg
Donkeys wait to be examined at the brick factory complex vet clinic in Narhwan, Iraq. Courtesy photo

Coalition Forces Revive Narhwan Brick Factory Complex with Vet Clinic
Wednesday, 09 April 2008

After Coalition forces engaged the Ministry of Energy on behalf of business owners at the complex to deliver HFO, employment rose from 3,500 to 15,000. The donkeys became essential to haul straw and mud, as well as the newly-formed bricks. The challenge for Baker was to get the mainly malnourished donkeys able to keep up with the work the HFO was going to make.

Carolan, senior veterinarian and agriculture adviser with the civil affairs team, G9, 3rd Inf. Div., specializes in treating equine species – horses, ponies and donkeys. After a briefing from Baker, Carolan traveled to Narhwan to hold the clinic.

“This Narhwan clinic was unique, given the number of donkeys to be examined and treated,” he said. “Many of the donkeys were malnourished and obviously mistreated. Some suffered from pressure sores, hematomas and neglect. Some collapsed of exhaustion and died before our eyes.

“Others were well-cared for, well-fed and well-groomed by owners who respected their worth,” he said.

To read full story CLICK on below photo:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/080409_fea3_med.jpg (http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18314&Itemid=1)
Assisted by a brick factory worker, Capt. Rory Carolan, senior veterinarian and agriculture adviser with the civil affairs team, G9, 3rd Infantry Division, examines a donkey at the Narhwan Brick Factory Complex. Courtesy photo.

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/scr_080408-A-xxxx-004.jpg
Army Capt. Rory Carolan, senior veterinarian and agriculture advisor with the civil affairs team, 3rd Infantry Division, examines a donkey essential to the operation of the brick factory complex in Narhwan, Iraq. Courtesy photo

Additional photo's from DOD: http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=49506

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gif

AEOakley

April 9th, 2008, 12:22 pm

Early in the war, the military occupation of Al Rasheed Hotel and some direct hits by enemy rockets took their toll on the Baghdad landmark. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has renovated the hotel's 484 rooms and support facilities, fixing damaged walls and windows and upgrading fresh water, wastewater and HVAC systems. The project cost $5,164,762 and began in June 2005. Kevin Casey reports.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=870H4oFc5Rk

:clap: :flag: :clap:

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has completed the Iraq's first modern landfill. It is friendly to the environment and offers residents of the city of Kirkuk a healthy option for garbage disposal. LTC Robert Ruud reports.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7yoiH_qjgzQ

GREAT WORK, USACEGRD! THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU DO!

Loyal American

April 9th, 2008, 12:23 pm

...just the images of these Iraqi children swarming around our awesome U.S. troops is enough!

:clap: :flag: :clap:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wi0g1r5m-YE
Those children will never forget our troops AEO! All those smiling faces, priceless!

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thmilitary-supporttroops-1.jpg.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/th1.gif

Loyal American

April 9th, 2008, 1:08 pm

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Numerous Criminals Detained, Caches Found During Operation Estonia
Wednesday, 09 April 2008

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/080409_fea1_med.jpg
Prior to detonation, Iraqi Police and Coalition forces stand with rocket-propelled grenades, 107 mm rockets and command wire April 5 at Iraqi Army Forward Operating Base Mahawil, Iraq; the munitions came from caches found in al Qasim and Hashmiyah last week. Photo by Maj. Tony Campbell.

FORWARD OPERATING BASE KALSU — Iraqi Security Forces detained numerous criminals and found two caches during Operation Estonia March 29 - 30 in the Iraqi cities of Hamza and Hashmiyah.

“Operation Estonia was an operation to combat extremists who had occupied the town of Hashmiyah,” said Maj. Tony Campbell, from Colorado Springs, Colo., G-3 adviser and deputy team leader with 31st Military Transition Team, 4th Brigade Special Troops Battalion, 3rd Infantry Division. “I was surprised by the tenacity of the extremists; they fought hard but the Iraqi Security Forces still prevailed in the operation.”

During the two-day operation, members of the 31st Brigade, 8th Iraqi Army Division; Emergency Response Unit with the Iraqi Police; and Hillah Special Weapons and Tactics teamed up with Coalition forces elements from 3rd Squadron, 73rd Cavalry Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division, and the 31st MiTT.

Campbell said the operation showed both criminals and the local populace that ISF are willing and capable to combat criminals.

“This operation gave confidence to the Iraqi Security Forces that they were powerful enough, strong enough to defeat (the criminals),” Campbell said.

Operation Estonia was just one of many raids in the Babil province that were fought to defeat criminals, beginning in the evening March 25.

“During the next seven to 10 days the Iraqi Security Forces did a series of operations and in all of these operations the ISF were successful,” Campbell said.

The two caches that were found during Operation Estonia consisted of 23 anti-tank mines, three crates of approximately 40 pounds of explosives each, three crates of pellet-shaped explosives, 15 81 mm mortars, two 120 mm mortars, 1,500 DSHKA rounds, one can of 120 mm mortar fuses, 10 explosively-formed penetrator housings, 10 EFP discs ranging from 4 - 12 inches, one 6-inch complete EFP, three grain bags full of EFP rings, tubes and back covers, two MK-19 rounds and one 120 mm casing.

“The overall outcome is favorable for the government because the Iraqi Security Forces have a renewed vigor, a new confidence in themselves and the people have a greater confidence in the ability of the security forces to protect them and they’re no longer intimidated by the militia,” Campbell said.

Campbell said the operation also improved lines of communication between elements of the Iraqi Police and Iraqi Army. “They are openly sharing intelligence between these organizations in order to improve their efficiency during operations.”

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18312&Itemid=1

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gif.........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gif.........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gif.........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gif.........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gif.........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gif.........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gif

Loyal American

April 9th, 2008, 3:58 pm

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththth02paper-17.gif ..... Photo Time! :D

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/080408_sod_med.jpg
Soldiers from the 25th Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division prepare to engage criminals in the Mahmudiyah market March 30. U.S. Army photo by Pvt. Christopher McKenna, 3rd BCT, 101st Abn. Div. (AASLT).

[STORY HERE] (http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18282&Itemid=46)

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/080408_fea2_med.jpg
Iraqi Security Forces discovered a cache in a 6-ton truck in a garage in al Qasim, Iraq, April 2. The cache contained more than 1000 EFP components, more than 3000 pounds of explosives, 45 Katusha 107 mm rockets and stands. Courtesy photo.

[STORY HERE] (http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18284&Itemid=110)

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/080408_fea1_med.jpg
A policeman from the 3rd Brigade, 1st National Police Division, pulls weapons from a cache found April 4 in Jabr al Ansari, Iraq. Photo by 3-1 Cav. Regt.

[STORY HERE] (http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18283&Itemid=110)

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/080407_fea1_med.jpg
Iraqi army soldiers from 3rd battalion, 22nd brigade, 6th Iraqi army division recovered a cache consisting of more than a dozen mortar rounds and components near Shakariyah on April 2. Photo by 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (AA) Public Affairs.

[STORY HERE] (http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18225&Itemid=110)

Loyal American

April 9th, 2008, 7:54 pm

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththth02paper-18.gif ..... GOD BLESS OUR TROOPS!!! :hug::hug::hug:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/53956_49154544.jpg

Troops care for infant left in bag outside FOB Callahan

By Joseph Giordono (giordonoj@estripes.osd.mil), Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition, Thursday, April 10, 2008

It was a scene that could have ended in tragedy, but ended up being — even for a war zone — simply surreal.

Last week, American soldiers at a base in northern Baghdad watched as a car pulled up to one of the base’s entry points. The car stopped, and a woman emerged holding a large bag. She placed the bag on the ground, got back in the car, and the vehicle drove off.

It had all the markings of a potential bomb attack, and the soldiers responded in kind, sounding alarms and starting a search. What they found inside the bag was far more confounding than a bomb. It was a baby.

“We unwrapped it to make sure he was alive — and he wasn’t sick, he wasn’t dead, he wasn’t injured,” Staff Sgt. Paul Briscoe, who is in charge of Forward Operating Base Callahan’s medical aid station, said in an Army news release issued Wednesday.

“He was a perfectly healthy baby. I’m guessing three to seven days old. He was in perfect health. There wasn’t a scratch on him.”

The baby had been wrapped in several cloths and simply left on their doorstep, like something out of an old movie.

Medics examined the baby and pronounced him in good health. By this time, the soldiers — with the 1st Combined Arms Battalion, 68th Armor Regiment, 4th Infantry Division — had already given the boy a nickname: Alex Callahan, after the soldier who found the baby, and the name of the base.

An interpreter working on the base volunteered to buy diapers and formula from a nearby shop while others took care of the child until they could figure out what to do.

“I’ve fed him twice, just holding him, watching him, making sure that he’s all right,” Doreen Haddad, one of the unit’s interpreters, said in the news release. “I’ve changed his diapers twice. I wanted to give him a bath, but I wasn’t able to.”

In the days after the discovery, the troops and interpreter found a solution to what to do with the baby. He will be adopted by the brother of an Iraqi who works on the base; the man and his wife have been unable to have children of their own. The interpreters at the base have been taking donations to help the family care for the baby.

For the soldiers, the strangeness of having a baby on their base seems to have worn off.

“He’s sleeping and pooping — just like a regular baby,” Briscoe was quoted as saying.

http://www.stripes.com/article.asp?section=104&article=53956

THANK YOU, TROOPS!!!

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thmilitary-supporttroops-1.jpg.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/th1.gif

PHOTO OF BABY ENLARGED:

http://www.stripes.com/articlephoto.asp?section=104&article=53956&photo=1

Rhonda

April 9th, 2008, 8:22 pm

rhet 2

April 9th, 2008, 9:01 pm

Loyal American

April 9th, 2008, 11:59 pm

Rhonda and rhet, I like that story too! Shows how carrying our troops are but I would of loved to have seen their faces when they found a baby in the bag! ;)

Here's some news on how the SOI and IA are trying to clear trash out of their areas of operation!

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththth02paper-18.gif
ISF, SOI discover 11 weapons caches in northern Iraq
Wednesday, 09 April 2008

TIKRIT, Iraq – Iraqi Security Forces and Abna al-Iraq, or Sons of Iraq, have discovered 11 weapons caches in northern Iraq April 7 and 8.

Over the two days, five caches were discovered in Diyala Province along with two caches each in Ta’Mim, Ninewah and Salah ad Din Provinces.

The caches consisted of rockets, mortars, projectiles of different sizes and hundreds of pounds of improvised explosive device making materials.

“As security continues to improve, so will the number of caches discovered. Both ISF and the Sons of Iraq are leading the way for the safety and security for the people of Iraq,” said Maj. Peggy Kageleiry, spokesman for Multi-National Division – North.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18320&Itemid=128

Iraqi Army soldiers uncover weapons caches near Arab Jassim, PB Warrior Keep
Wednesday, 09 April 2008

CAMP STRIKER, Iraq – Separate weapons caches were discovered near Arab Jassim and Patrol Base Warrior Keep April 8.

Soldiers from 3rd Company, 4th Battalion, 25th Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division turned over a cache found in Arab Jassim that included five 155 mm artillery rounds, 113 empty pipes and 50 pipe caps.

A local Iraqi turned in a second cache containing a primer, various munitions rounds and a 15-pound bag mixture of munitions pellets, diesel and fertilizer to Patrol Base Warrior Keep.

Soldiers from Company D, 1st Battalion, 187th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), stored the munitions for inspection by an explosive ordnance disposal team.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18326&Itemid=128

GOOD JOB IA AND SOI! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-18.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gif

Loyal American

April 10th, 2008, 9:48 am

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththth02paper-18.gif
MND-B Soldiers kill 13 criminals (Baghdad)
Thursday, 10 April 2008

BAGHDAD – Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers killed 13 criminals in separate engagements in Baghdad April 9.

At approximately 8:35 p.m., Soldiers from 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, manning a combined checkpoint with Iraqi National Policemen from 3rd Battalion, 4th Brigade, 1st National Police Division, were attacked by criminals with small-arms fire from a rooftop nearby in northeastern Baghdad. Soldiers returned fire and killed one criminal.

Soldiers from 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), killed four criminals in northwestern Baghdad at approximately 9:40 p.m. after they were attacked with rocket-propelled grenades at a checkpoint.

An aerial weapons team provided security for Soldiers emplacing concrete barriers at a joint security station in northeastern Baghdad who were attacked with small-arms fire at approximately 11:10 p.m.

The AWT engaged the criminals with two hellfire missiles and killed four.

At approximately 11:45 p.m., Soldiers from 2-101 Abn. Div. killed four criminals after being attacked with small-arms fire from two different locations in northwestern Baghdad.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18328&Itemid=21

EXCELLENT JOB TROOPS!

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-18.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gif

Larry, Curly & Mohamed

April 10th, 2008, 10:13 am

Loyal American

April 10th, 2008, 10:19 am

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththth02paper-18.gif

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/scr_080208-F-9876D-151.jpg

Supply Chain Partners Deliver 5,000 MRAPs to Warfighters

WASHINGTON, April 9, 2008 – Supply chain partners, from manufacturer to the front lines, reached a major milestone in keeping warfighters in Iraq and Afghanistan safe from the effects of many improvised explosive devices.

As of April 5, more than 5,000 mine-resistant, ambush-protected vehicles have been delivered to the U.S. Central Command area of operations. The milestone of 5,000 occurs a little more than three months after the Defense Department kept its promise of 1,500 of the vehicles in theater before the end of 2007. In fact, as of today, the total already has climbed to more than 5,200, officials with U.S. Transportation Command, at Scott Air Force Bawe, Ill., said.

An earlier turning point occurred in late March, when the number of vehicles delivered by sea exceeded the number airlifted to the area of operations. TransCom officials project that, by the end of June, all MRAP vehicles will be shipped by sea.

Marine Corps Systems Command, in Quantico, Va., assigned as the joint program executive office, manages the overall MRAP program for DoD. Prior to shipment, the Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command center at Charleston, S.C., integrates and installs government-furnished equipment into the vehicles.

"The many successes of the joint MRAP vehicle program are the result of an overwhelming team effort by the many players in this program," said Brig. Gen. Michael Brogan, commander of Marine Corps Systems Command. "From production to integration, from transportation to fielding, a number of commands and organizations have played major roles in this program.”

TransCom professionals “exhibited flexibility and resourcefulness to accomplish the movement mission,” the general added.

The command's MRAP end-to-end distribution team has been monitoring the pipeline from production through to arrival in theater and delivery to final destination. “Our success is definitely a team effort," said Army Lt. Col. John Hanson, who leads the team.

TransCom officials noted that the command’s MRAP success has come even as it has supported humanitarian relief operations around the world, and other commitments made to CentCom and other combatant commands.

The transportation team included members of the command's components to ensure visibility throughout the system, officials said. Air Force Air Mobility Command C-5 Galaxy, C-17 Globemaster III and contracted AN-124 Condor aircraft delivered the majority of MRAPs until this week. The Army's Military Surface Deployment and Distribution Command scheduled ocean carrier deliveries by sea and handled port operations. The Navy's Military Sealift Command delivered vehicles with its fast sealift ships and large, medium-speed, roll-on, roll-off vessels as well as chartered commercial ships.

"This is truly an achievement of all the military and commercial partners in this venture," Air Force Gen. Norton A. Schwartz, TransCom commander, said. “These lifesaving vehicles are proving their value every day in protecting our warfighters and keeping them safe while in harm's way."

http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=49519

FANTASTIC!!!

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gif

Larry, Curly & Mohamed

April 10th, 2008, 10:59 am

Al-Qaeda’s deputy leader captured in Anbar – Interior Ministry

Baghdad - Voices of Iraq
Thursday , 10 /04 /2008 Time 5:54:14

Baghdad, Apr 10, (VOI) - Iraqi security forces arrested Nezal Sabar surnamed Abu al-Jerah, assistant of al-Qaeda in Iraq’s leader, the group's emir of the armed group in Anbar, the Interior Ministry said on Thursday.
“Iraqi security forces arrested Abu al-Jerah on April 8 in Eishreen street in Ramadi while roaming the city’s streets. He has been a fugitive for two years,” the Ministry said in a statement received by Aswat al-Iraq Voices of Iraq – (VOI).
Abu Ayoub al-Masri is the leader of al-Qaeda in Iraq. He succeeded Abu Musaab al-Zarqawi, who was killed in a U.S. raid in 2006.

SH/SR

http://www.aswataliraq.info/look/english/article.tpl?IdLanguage=1&IdPublication=4&NrArticle=75937&NrIssue=2&NrSection=1

WAY TO GO!!!!

Loyal American

April 10th, 2008, 11:03 am

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththth02paper-18.gif
MND-B Soldiers detain suspected EFP cell leader, seize cache
Thursday, 10 April 2008

BAGHDAD – Multi-National Division – Baghdad soldiers detained a suspected criminal cell leader and seized several mortar rounds during a cordon and search operation in the Aamel Beladiya neighborhood, located in the Rashid district of southern Baghdad, April 9.

Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 22nd Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, currently attached to the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, acted on a tip from a concerned Iraqi citizen and detained the individual who is believed to be the leader of an improvised explosive device production cell, responsible for making explosively formed projectiles.

The soldiers also discovered an IED made of five 60mm mortar rounds and a flash-bang grenade.

“The tip that led to the detention of this individual is further evidence that the people of Iraq will not tolerate criminals and criminal behavior,” said Col. Bill Buckner, MNC-I spokesman. “Iraqi and Coalition forces continue to work closely with Iraqi citizens to identify and bring to justice those who choose to disobey al-Sayyid Moqtada al-Sadr’s cease-fire pledge.”

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18330&Itemid=21

GREAT TIP AND FINE JOB TROOPS, THANK YOU!
http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-18.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gif

Loyal American

April 10th, 2008, 11:15 am

Al-Qaeda’s deputy leader captured in Anbar – Interior Ministry

http://www.aswataliraq.info/look/english/article.tpl?IdLanguage=1&IdPublication=4&NrArticle=75937&NrIssue=2&NrSection=1

WAY TO GO!!!!
ISF snatchin' up a big time dirtbag! Justice is sweet!

ROCK ON ISF! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gif

Loyal American

April 10th, 2008, 12:01 pm

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththth02paper-18.gif
Iraqi Police, Iraqi Army discover large cache in Husayniyah
Thursday, 10 April 2008

KARBALA, Iraq — Iraqi Security Forces discovered a large weapons cache and detained six criminal suspects during an operation in Husayniyah, south of Baghdad, April 8.

The cache discovery and detainments were made as a result of an intelligence-driven operation, targeting a house in the area, by the 33rd Iraqi Army Brigade, with the assistance of Karbala Police. The ISF discovered a cache hole that led under the house to the hidden explosives.

The cache contained nearly 100 blocks of C4, weighing approximately 600 grams each, an improvised explosive device, a 60 mm mortar tube, an assortment of rifles and hand grenades, and numerous rocket-propelled grenades, mortars and small-arms rounds.

“This is a significant cache find, because this is a larger and more modern selection of munitions than has typically been found in this area,” said Maj. Kevin Rice, intelligence officer for Military Transition Team 33.

Rice added that initial analysis from the ISF said the C4 blocks were dated from 2007 and appeared to be Iranian-produced. Additionally, the area where the operation took place was a “rally area” for criminals, according to the analysis

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18329&Itemid=128

SWEET JOB IP AND IA!http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-18.gif

KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gif

Loyal American

April 10th, 2008, 1:18 pm

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththth02paper-18.gif
Battalion Helps Iraqis Reclaim Freedom, Security, Stability
Thursday, 10 April 2008

BAGHDAD — The Raider Brigade Combat Team has a new ally in its mission to help the Iraqi government and Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers build upon the predominately Sunni community of Doura in Baghdad’s Rashid district.

The 2nd Battalion, 4th Infantry Regiment, “Warriors” will be attached to the 4th Infantry Division’s 1st Brigade Combat Team next week as part of its mission to help the government and the Iraqi people.

“It is our intent to create a safe and stable living environment for the people of the Doura district,” said Army Lt. Col. Timothy Watson, commander of 2-4th Infantry Regiment, part of the 10th Mountain Division’s 4th Brigade Combat Team, based at Fort Polk, La.

The battalion’s current mission is to work with Iraqi security forces and the local district councils responsible for the community, which is home to the Doura Market, a social, cultural and economic center in southern Baghdad, Watson explained.

“This area has all the potential to flourish economically and contribute to the proud cultural heritage of the Iraqi nation,” Watson said. “Much of our time and effort has been devoted to facilitating the growth of the market complex while providing a nonintrusive, yet highly effective, security presence.”

The units of the 2-4th Infantry Regiment have partnered with the local Iraqi army police forces, as well as the “Sons of Iraq” citizen security group, to better secure the Doura neighborhoods from criminal and terrorist activity.

Soldiers maintain a presence in Doura 24 hours a day to help Iraqi security forces protect the 5,000 homes in the local community, Army 2nd Lt. Jay Parsons, a platoon leader assigned to Company B, 2-4th Infantry Regiment, said.

Units conduct joint and platoon-sized operations with their Iraqi counterparts every day, operating out of combat outposts and joint security stations in Doura, he explained.

“I try to ensure that we conduct some type of combat operation every day,” said Parsons, who calls Wichita, Kan., his home. “Be it cordon and search or dismounted and mounted patrols, it’s a constant thing. There are still a small group of criminal elements within the district that we are weeding out, but I do not see a major threat.”

CLICK on photo to read more:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/080410_fea3_med.jpg (http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18337&Itemid=1)
Army Sgt. Keith Fosmire, a team leader assigned to Company B, 2nd Battalion, 4th Infantry Regiment, attached to the 1st Infantry Division’s 4th Brigade Combat Team, takes point April 5, 2008, during a combined patrol with the 3rd Battalion, 9th Brigade, 3rd Iraqi Army Division. The Iraqi and coalition forces patrolled Doura's industrial commercial 5th Street and surrounding areas as part of efforts to provide stability and security for the 1.2 million people in southern Baghdad’s Rashid district. Photo by Army Staff Sgt. Brent Williams, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Multinational Division Baghdad.

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gif

rhet 2

April 10th, 2008, 1:26 pm

AEOakley

April 10th, 2008, 1:54 pm

Oh that is such a sweeeeeeeeeeeet story...I love you LA...thank you so much for posting this and ditto

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WOW! A sweet, awesome and wonderful story! I am so happy for the family who will be able to adopt this precious baby!!

http://www.stripes.com/article.asp?s...&article=53956

Loyal American

April 10th, 2008, 2:54 pm

WOW! A sweet, awesome and wonderful story! I am so happy for the family who will be able to adopt this precious baby!!

http://www.stripes.com/article.asp?s...&article=53956
I've thought about this story since posting it last night! We'll never know why the mother couldn't keep the infant but clearly, by the infants physical condition, she took care of it up to dropping it off at the base entrance. Ya gotta think she knew our troops would take care of it and find it a home. I'm happy for the adopting family too! :D

Yet another successful mission completed by our troops! :clap:

Loyal American

April 10th, 2008, 3:02 pm

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Two AQI terrorists killed, nine detained in central, northern Iraq
Thursday, 10 April 2008

BAGHDAD – Coalition forces killed two terrorists and detained nine suspected terrorists during operations Wednesday and today targeting al-Qaeda in Iraq in central and northern Iraq.

Near Taji, Coalition forces conducted two operations targeting al-Qaeda in Iraq – or AQI – senior leaders. Wednesday, the mission focused on an individual believed to conspire directly with terrorist leaders in the Southern Belt. Coalition forces identified the suspect driving with one other individual. The terrorists ignored attempts to stop the vehicle and tried to evade capture. Coalition forces engaged the vehicle to stop it, killing the two terrorists inside. The operation this morning targeted associates of terrorist leaders in the Northern Belt, and Coalition forces detained two suspected terrorists.

Coalition forces carried out two operations in Mosul. Wednesday, intelligence sources led Coalition forces to a house that a wanted terrorist, believed to be responsible for assassinations, kidnappings and facilitation of suicide bombings, was known to frequent. Coalition forces surrounded the area and cleared the targeted building, as well as several others in the neighborhood, detaining two suspected terrorists in the process. Two additional suspects were detained today during a mission targeting an individual who allegedly oversees AQI attack operations in the area.

West of Baghdad, Coalition forces targeted AQI operatives in Abu Ghraib, detaining three suspected terrorists.

“Iraqi and Coalition forces continue to dismantle al-Qaeda in Iraq networks through operations like these, but they remain a deadly threat to security, and there is still a tough fight ahead,” said Maj. Winfield Danielson, MNF-I spokesman.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18339&Itemid=128

11 DIRTBAGS OUT OF COMMISSION!
AWESOME JOB TROOPS! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-18.gif

THANK YOU! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gif

Loyal American

April 10th, 2008, 4:24 pm

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New Rule of Law Expert Meets Mada’in Judges
Thursday, 10 April 2008

FORWARD OPERATING BASE HAMMER — Col. Doug House, a military lawyer assigned to the Baghdad-8 embedded Provincial Reconstruction Team, attached to the 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, met with three judges at the courthouse in Jisr Diyala to gauge their needs April 8.

Judge Razaq Jabbar Alwan, chief investigative judge of the qada, welcomed House.

“I am glad that you are here and we have the opportunity to meet you,” Alwan said. “It is because of people like you that we are all sitting here in my office today. Your country has helped my country a great deal.”

The current judicial expert for the 3rd HBCT believes House, a native of Little Rock, Ark., will be able to work with the judges to facilitate their permanent return to the courthouse in Salman Pak.

“I thought Col. House made a good impression on the judges,” said Spc. Ryan Burkholder, a native of Houston. “After an hour of discussion, he was able to work through some issues.”

To read more, CLICK on photo:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/080410_fea1_med.jpg (http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18335&Itemid=1)
Col. Doug House, from Little Rock, Ark., a military lawyer with the Baghdad-8 embedded Provincial Reconstruction Team, reviews documents with Judge Bassem Mohammed Rushdi, a civil judge in the Mada’in Qada, at the courthouse in Jisr Diyala, Iraq, April 8. Photo by Spc. Ben Hutto.

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Loyal American

April 10th, 2008, 5:53 pm

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MND-B Air Weapons Teams engage criminals (Baghdad)
Thursday, 10 April 2008

BAGHDAD – Two Multi-National Division –Baghdad aerial weapons teams engaged criminal activities in two separate operations in northeast Baghdad April 10.

An AWT observed three criminals at a potential rocket site at approximately 8 a.m. When the criminals caught site of the AWT, they fled the scene in a black sedan.

An unmanned aerial vehicle observed the criminals returning to the site.

At 9:45 a.m., the UAV confirms the presence of rockets. Moments later, the AWT returns and engages the three rockets with a hellfire missile.
The criminals fled the scene.

The AWT and UAV confirmed two additional rockets at a different site a few minutes later.

Since the area was clear of civilians, the AWT fired a hellfire missile at the rockets destroying them.

In a separate event, an unmanned aerial vehicle observed a rocket launch site and positively identified the criminal’s vehicle from the earlier attack.

The UAV engaged the sedan with one hellfire missile at approximately 10:15 a.m.

“We take every precaution when destroying the rocket sites that are killing and injuring the Iraqi people, their Security Forces and U.S. Soldiers,“ said Lt. Col. Steve Stover, spokesman for MND-B. “Our hellfire missiles are a precisionguided weapon, and we have been very successful at only destroying what we aim at.”

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18340&Itemid=21

HOORAH! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-18.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gif

Loyal American

April 10th, 2008, 8:18 pm

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ISF capture two al-Qaeda in Iraq IED cell members, one insurgent cell leader in separate operations (Ramadi)
Thursday, 10 April 2008

BALAD, Iraq – Iraqi Security Forces, advised by U.S. Special Forces, detained two suspected al-Qaeda in Iraq improvised explosive device cell members and one insurgent cell leader in separate operations April 8 and 9.

In Ramadi, the Anbar Counterterrorism Directorate conducted an operation to capture members of an AQI IED cell operating out of the Albu Faraj area of Ramadi.

The cell is accused of multiple attacks against Iraqi and Coalition forces including an IED attack March 25.

The group also owned an IED cache found by the Albu Faraj Iraqi Police March 30. Two cell members were detained during the operation.

In Mosul, 2nd Division Iraqi Army Soldiers captured the suspected leader of seven “battalions” of insurgents throughout Mosul. His cells are believed to be responsible for IED and indirect fire attacks against Iraqi and Coalition forces including two suicide vest IED attacks against tactical control points in eastern Mosul March 13.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18342&Itemid=21
OUTSTANDING!

THANK YOU, IA AND USSF!
http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-18.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gif

Loyal American

April 10th, 2008, 9:19 pm

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Painting Project Brings Soldiers, Iraqi Families Together

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BAGHDAD, April 9, 2008 – Soldiers at Forward Operating Base War Eagle here invited a group of Iraqi children to showcase their artistic skills and creativity March 29 by painting the concrete walls used to protect citizens in their neighborhood.

The children live in a village near War Eagle and walk by the “T-walls” daily on their way to school, said Army Capt. Megan Welch, a Multinational Division Baghdad logistics officer with the 4th Infantry Division’s 64th Brigade Support Battalion, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, adding that the children find the route to be a safe way to get to school.

Though the focus of the painting session was to provide another way to establish rapport with the adult and younger residents of the village, Welch said, it also was a chance for the children to beautify something they see daily.

Welch, a native of La Crescent, Minn., added that it helped the Iraqi children see soldiers not only as armed protectors, but also as people with whom they can interact.

The children painted Iraqi and American flags, palm trees, flowers, hearts and other designs of their imagination to give the T-walls a vivid look. The painting day gave the children a better feeling of how people behind the uniform are, and it shows them soldiers care about them, Welch said.

“The kids who participated had a good time, and for us, it was a good opportunity to interact with the neighborhood kids,” said Army Capt. Walter Zurkowsky, a New Hampshire native who serves as executive officer for Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 3rd Brigade Combat Team.

Welch and her fellow soldiers from the Mountaineer Battalion organized the day and said they hope to host similar events.

“We had a lot of fun with the kids. It was a good, cooperative community-building event, and we look forward to seeing many of these in the future,” she said.

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http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=49512

THANK YOU!
SWEET IDEA TROOPS!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gif

Loyal American

April 11th, 2008, 6:29 am

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UAV destroys mortar position, kills 6 (Hyanniyah)
Friday, 11 April 2008

BASRA – A Coalition forces unmanned aerial vehicle engaged a group of criminals firing mortars at Iraqi Security Forces at around 2:30 a.m. on April 11 killing six and injuring one.

The criminals were observed in the Hyanniyah district of Basra by a Coalition aircraft and positively identified as an active mortar team. An air strike was called in to attack their position and neutralize the weapon.

This is part of the ongoing support provided by Coalition forces to Iraqi Security Forces to assist in combating the destabilizing criminal elements in Basra which seek to undermine the authority of the legitimate government of Iraq.

UAV kills 6 heavily armed criminals (Baghdad)
Friday, 11 April 2008

BAGHDAD – Coalition forces from Multi-National Division – Baghdad operating an unmanned aerial vehicle observed a large group of criminals with rocket-propelled grenade launchers and a mortar tube in northeast Baghdad at approximately 9:30 p.m. April 10.

The UAV fired a Hellfire missile killing six heavily armed criminals at approximately 9:45 p.m.

“U.S. Soldiers and their Iraqi partners are always vigilant in our efforts to protect the Iraqi people from criminals,” said Lt. Col. Steve Stover, Multi-National Division – Baghdad. “We remain committed to their safety, welfare and well-being.”

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18348&Itemid=128

GREAT JOB, THANK YOU! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gif

Loyal American

April 11th, 2008, 7:52 am

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101st Airborne Takes Over for 82nd Airborne in Afghanistan

BAGRAM AIR BASE, Afghanistan, April 10, 2008 – On the 101st day of 2008, the headquarters of the 101st Airborne Division officially became Combined Joint Task Force 101 and took command of NATO’s Regional Command East sector of Afghanistan from the 82nd Airborne Division.

In a ceremony here today, Army Maj. Gen. Jeffrey Schloesser, commander of the 101st Airborne and CJTF 101, praised 82nd Airborne soldiers for their effective service over the past 15 months to improve the lives of the Afghan people, and promised to continue in that mission.

“We pledge to work together with our coalition and Afghan partners in an effort to build a strong government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan [and] to improve the quality of life for the people of Afghanistan, who have seen too much violence and terror over the last 30 years,” Schloesser said.

He added that the transition of authority also reflects the total commitment of NATO, its International Security Assistance Force and the U.S. government to the security and prosperity of the Afghan government.

“The purpose of the ceremony today is not about words,” said Army Maj. Gen. David M. Rodriguez, outgoing commander of RC East and commander of 82nd Airborne Division, from Fort Bragg, N.C. “It is about better opportunities for the future of the Afghan people, and it is about the coalition’s enduring commitment to this nation.”

Since the Taliban era, Afghanistan has added 8,000 schools and 140,000 teachers, Rodriguez said.

About 70 percent of girls and 97 percent of boys in Regional Command East now have access to a state-sponsored education, as well as access to basic health care that has increased to nearly 80 percent, he said. This has resulted in a 25 percent reduction in infant mortality, adding up to about 90,000 lives.

“All of that is a large investment in a prosperous future for Afghanistan,” Rodriguez said.

“We pledge that we will continue to support the Afghan national security forces as they provide security for the Afghan people by working together with our coalition and alliance partners and interagency organizations,” Schloesser said.

Regional Command East is made up of 14 provinces in eastern Afghanistan, bordering Pakistan.

The 101st Airborne Division, known as the “Screaming Eagles,” is based out of Fort Campbell, Ky. About 7,200 soldiers from the division’s headquarters, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 101st Combat Aviation Brigade and 101st Sustainment Brigade are now serving in Afghanistan as part of CJTF 101. The division’s 1st, 2nd and 3rd Brigade Combat Teams currently are deployed to Iraq.

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/scr_080410-A-4375D-059.jpg
Army Maj. Gen. Jeffrey Schloesser and Division Command Sgt. Maj. Vincent Camacho of 101st Airborne Division uncase the division colors during a transfer-of-authority ceremony at Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan, April 10, 2008. The 101st Airborne Division assumed command of Combined Joint Task Force 101 from 82nd Airborne Division in Regional Command East of NATO’s International Security Assistance Force. Photo by Army Staff Sgt. Tyffani L. Davis

THANK YOU 82nd AIRBORNE AND BEST WISHES FOR MAXIMUM SUCCESS SCREAMING EAGLES! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththththAmericanFlag-Animated--12.gif

Loyal American

April 11th, 2008, 7:59 am

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Iraqi Army soldiers find weapons caches, detain 2 in separate operations
Friday, 11 April 2008

CAMP STRIKER, Iraq – Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 25th Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division discovered a weapons cache and detained two suspected al-Qaeda in Iraq members during a dismounted patrol in Said Abdullah Corridor April 8.

The cache included 19 improvised explosive devices, 22 60 mm mortar rounds, a mortar tube, two rocket-propelled grenades, six RPG rounds and two Katusha rockets.

The individuals were held for further questioning.

In a separate operation, the Iraqi Army soldiers, in a joint patrol with 3rd Battalion, 320th Field Artillery, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), yielded a cache find east of the Qadisiyah Apartments in Mahmudiyah April 8.

The cache included seven 80 mm mortars, nine rocket-propelled grenade rounds, three 60 mm mortars, a mortar site, RPG launcher, an AK-47, 70 flares and an improvised explosive device.

The next day in the same location, the Iraqi Army soldiers discovered seven 82 mm mortar rounds, four rocket-propelled grenade launchers, disassembled parts of a DSHKA machine gun and improvised explosive device-making materials.

All the weapons were turned over to an explosive ordnance disposal team for detonation.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18346&Itemid=128

NICE JOB!http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-18.gif

THANK YOU! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gif

Loyal American

April 11th, 2008, 10:17 am

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MND-C Soldiers find weapons cache in Janabi
Friday, 11 April 2008

CAMP STRIKER, Iraq – MND-C Soldiers with 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), found a weapons cache in Janabi April 10.

The cache contained more than 1,000 7.62 mm rounds, approximately 200 .50 cal rounds, 55 mm rounds, about 10 rockets, 120 mm rounds, 106 mm rounds, one 125 mm round, five 155 mm illumination rounds, 10 pounds of propellant, fuses, a hand grenade, TNT and other bomb-making materials.

The items were turned in to an explosive ordnance disposal team for detonation.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18347&Itemid=21

MND-B Soldiers seize weapons cache
Friday, 11 April 2008

BAGHDAD – Soldiers from the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division discovered a weapons cache during a patrol of the streets of the Rashid district of Baghdad April 9.

Soldiers from the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division discovered multiple mortar rounds and materials used to make improvised-explosive devices, mortar rounds and thousands of 7.62mm rounds of ammunition, a rocket-propelled grenade with launcher, a sniper rifle, blasting caps and detonation cord in the Hadar beladiya.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18355&Itemid=21

MORE DIRTBAG CACHES GOIN' POOF!

GOOD JOB TROOPS! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-18.gif

Loyal American

April 11th, 2008, 11:23 am

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Camp Teaches Iraqi Children Basketball
Friday, 11 April 2008

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PATROL BASE LION’S DEN — Radwaniyah area children were treated to something a little out of the ordinary when U.S. Soldiers at Patrol Base Lion’s Den held a basketball camp recently.

Holding a basketball camp where Soldiers could teach lessons in teamwork, discipline and hard work, resulted from Staff Sgt. Christopher Dickerson and his company commander, Capt. Sean Morrow, putting their heads together.

Dickerson and Morrow wanted Company B, 2nd Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), to give back to the community and get the kids in the area together.

Their idea captured the support of many company Soldiers, some of whom, like Sgt. Dwight Williams, added ideas and manpower to make the camp a hit.

Williams, originally from Birmingham, Ala., has a brother who holds a basketball camp at home every summer. Williams said he tries to make it to the camp to help each year, but donates $500 to sponsor five children when he can’t be there.

“Being over here this time, I got to work with the Iraqi kids and I felt just like I was back at home,” Williams said. “I was able to give back to the community.”

Giving back to Radwaniyah has involved more than just teaching basketball. One sheikh said the security the Americans had established was the first gift to the community.

“Thanks to God, the Iraqi Army and the Coalition forces, the security is very good,” said Sheikh Hameed Shalal Al-Tharib, a local leader in Radwaniyah. “That makes a good situation where our kids can play soccer, or come here and learn basketball.”

Teaching the children basketball, an American game, instead of soccer - a much more common game in Iraq - had its purpose. The Soldiers wanted to share American culture, but they also wanted to get everyone on common ground, starting off as beginners. They brought in Iraqi Army Soldiers and sheikhs to give the youth figures to look to for learning.

“We wanted to bring them in and have the IA with us so they could serve as good role models,” said Atlanta native, 1st Lt. Trivius Caldwell, 3rd Platoon leader for Co. B, 2-69th Armor Regt. “We wanted to teach them basic elements of life – teamwork, discipline, hard work – things of that nature. I think we accomplished that.”

Williams said he felt the Iraqi children may have had a misunderstanding of why Americans are in Iraq and the basketball camp was one way to show them what kind of people Americans really are.

“The kids really enjoyed it because they had heard about Americans,” Williams said. “But there’s a big difference between hearing about us and standing there with us and shaking our hands. I think they really enjoyed that more than the basketball camp – getting to interact with us.”

Eighteen children showed up for the first day of the three-day camp, 27 came on the second day and there were 47 by the last day.

“It’s just like spreading the word back home; if one kid likes it, he’s going to tell a friend and then he’ll tell a friend,” Williams said. “We were just glad to have so many kids come out.”

The children formed teams and played a championship game at the culmination of camp, allowing them to show off what they had learned. They were then treated to a cookout and given awards. Twenty-five children got one more thing, something they held dearly as they walked away – their very own Quran.

“In my brother’s camp (in Birmingham) we give out Bibles,” Williams said. “Here, a lot of families don’t have Qurans, so we gave out Qurans … Giving out a Quran is letting them know, ‘I respect your religion, just like I respect mine.’”

Local sheikhs happily brought the Qurans in at the request of Morrow.

“It’s a great thing to give the Quran to the children at the end of the basketball camp,” Sheik Al-Tharib said. “We want to teach our kids about more than sports … Since the people here are poor, it’s good that each kid can now have his own Quran – something his family maybe didn’t have before.”

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18377&Itemid=110

AHHHH, SWEET JOB TROOPS! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththclap3-28.gif

GOD BLESS YOU AND THANK YOU!
:hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug: :hug:

Loyal American

April 11th, 2008, 12:30 pm

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Soldier’s Efforts Bring Fresh Eggs to Troops

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CAMP LIBERTY, Iraq, April 11, 2008 – Through the efforts of a Multinational Division Baghdad soldier, deployed troops can once again enjoy fresh eggs as one of their breakfast options after the nutritious staple was banned from Iraq for a year.

After receiving a plethora of requests from soldiers and the command group, Army Chief Warrant Officer 4 Sabrina Nero, a native of Brooklyn, N.Y., took it upon herself to find a way to once again get fresh eggs on the menu; Nero serves as Multinational Division Baghdad’s command food advisor with the 4th Infantry Division’s Company B, Special Troops Battalion.

“When the 4th Infantry Division got here, everyone, including the command staff, was wondering where the eggs were, so I went to find out why there were no eggs here,” Nero said.

Nero immediately got a copy of a memorandum banning fresh eggs that originated in Kuwait after a bird flu outbreak in March 2007.

“I read the memorandum from the State Department and found a technicality that would allow eggs back into Iraq,” she explained. “The technicality was the Iraqi government didn’t want poultry products shipped into Iraq that had originated from Kuwait. If it originated in Kuwait, that meant we couldn’t get the product.”

She said she noticed the letter never said soldiers couldn’t have eggs; it stated the eggs couldn’t come from Kuwait.

Nero wondered where else she could procure eggs, since Kuwait was off limits.

“I went and talked to the food safety officer, and she gave me a list of all the approved sources where we could source eggs outside of Kuwait,” she said.

Nero then pieced together the paperwork for a proposal to crack open alternative sources of fresh eggs and poultry from other countries surrounding Iraq. She submitted a proposal to her chain of command for approval from Army Lt. Gen. James Lovelace, commanding general of U.S. Army Central and Coalition Forces Land Component Command.

Nero said there was some hesitation as to whether or not to accept the proposal, because all food products were shipped through Kuwait; but in the end, she got a green light from all levels, and eggs began to roll into Iraq.

To her surprise, her efforts affected not only Iraq, but also Afghanistan and other neighboring countries where U.S. troops are stationed.

Read more, CLICK on below photo:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/scr_080411-A-9999R-003.jpg (http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=49541)

GOOD JOB CHIEF NERO! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gif
NOW I'M HUNGRY! :lol:

Loyal American

April 11th, 2008, 3:15 pm

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National Police, MND-C Soldiers, capture key criminal (Jisr Diyala)
Friday, 11 April 2008

BAGHDAD – Iraqi National Police and Multi-National Division – Center Soldiers on a joint operation captured a key criminal in Jisr Diyala, April 11.

The detainee is a known criminal leader in the area responsible for improvised explosive device attacks, indirect fire attacks and weapons smuggling.

This criminal is also suspected of recent violence in the area.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18382&Itemid=21

Third cache discovered within seven days (Kirkuk)
Friday, 11 April 2008

TIKRIT, Iraq – Iraqi Soldiers discovered three weapon caches of various munitions and explosives northeast of Kirkuk, April 10.

The caches included 60mm Chinese mortars, 82mm Chinese mortars, 57mm Chinese projectiles, 120mm Chinese mortar high explosives, 60mm Iraqi mortars, more than 50 85mm Iraqi rocket motors, 105mm Iraqi projectiles, 40mm projected fuses, 130 Russian projectiles, Russian fuses and an 85mm Russian projectile.

The explosives and weapons were likely to be used against Coalition forces, Iraqi Security Forces and Iraqi citizens. This is the third large cache found in this area within a week.

The cache was in an area previously known to stockpile munitions.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18381&Itemid=21

Iraqi Border Patrol discovers large mines cache in Diyala Province
Friday, 11 April 2008

TIKRIT, Iraq – The Iraqi Department of Border Enforcement discovered a large weapons cache in the eastern desert of Diyala Province April 11.

The cache contained more than 100 anti-personnel mines as well as anti-tank mines and a 155mm projectile.

The Iraqi Department of Border Enforcement in northern Iraq contains more than 8,700 agents and covers nine points of entry into the country. They also patrol the border and conduct other assigned law enforcement duties.

“Iraqi Border Enforcement is an invaluable asset towards the security of Iraq,” said Maj. Peggy Kageleiry, a Multi-National Division – North spokesperson.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18383&Itemid=21

GREAT JOB BY EVERYBODY!

THANK YOU!!!

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-19.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gif

Loyal American

April 11th, 2008, 6:33 pm

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ISF, Coalition Forces Conduct Joint Operation
Friday, 11 April 2008

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FORWARD OPERATING BASE DELTA — An Iraqi Police-led operation in An Numaniyah sent a message to criminals in the city - Iraqi Security Forces are in control.

More than 300 IP, Iraqi Army and Coalition forces deployed to An Numaniyah to conduct checkpoint operations in a joint effort April 7. Dubbed Operation Crystal Springs, the mission also provided ISF and Coalition leadership the opportunity to engage with local government officials and sheikhs.

“It was an operation that was planned by the Iraqi Police, supported by the Iraqi Army and the Coalition forces,” said Capt. Eric Wigley, commander of the 511th Military Police Company. “The mission was designed as a non-kinetic mission to go out to Numaniyah … to set up and conduct numerous checkpoints and just to let the people know that the Iraqi Police, the Iraqi Army and the Coalition forces can plan and operate together.”

Sgt. Shane McAllister, a team leader with the 511th MP Co., said the mission showed the local populace that ISF are in control of the area and enforcing the rule of law.

An Numaniyah has had little Coalition presence in the past. The Wasit Police Chief, Maj. Gen. Abid al Hanneen Faysal Ameer, and the 8th Iraqi Army Division commander identified the city as a security priority, said Wigley.

“They wanted to show the people that they are committed to the city, they are committed to their populace and they can, when they want, mass forces to help secure the population,” Wigley said.

The forces established four checkpoints strategically placed in and around the city to interact with residents, search vehicles for contraband and distribute humanitarian assistance.

At one checkpoint, the ISF, along with Soldiers from 511th MP Co., from Fort Drum, N.Y., searched more than 200 vehicles. The U.S. forces were there in an advisory role, said 1st Lt. Lynnette Jefferson, a platoon leader with 511th MP Co.

“Our Soldiers knew what was expected of them,” she said. “They understood that the checkpoints were an IP responsibility.”

Jefferson said the MPs have trained with the IPs on conducting vehicle and personnel searches, conducting joint patrols and reacting to improvised explosive devices, small arms fire and precision gun fire.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18379&Itemid=1

Additional photos from DOD:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/scr_080411-A-9999N-001.jpg
A medic with the 511th Military Police Company from Fort Drum, N.Y., watches as an Iraqi policeman searches a vehicle during Operation Crystal Springs, April 7, 2008.

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/scr_080411-A-9999N-002.jpg
More than 300 Iraqi police, Iraqi army and coalition forces deploy to Numaniyah, Iraq, to conduct checkpoint operations during Operation Crystal Springs, April 7, 2008.

http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=49542

THANK YOU IP, IA AND CF!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gif

Loyal American

April 11th, 2008, 8:00 pm

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Significant caches found North of Habbaniyah
Friday, 11 April 2008

Habbaniyah, Iraq – Marines of 2nd Battalion 24th Marines, Regimental Combat team 1 discovered nine caches north of Habbaniyah, Iraq April 8, 2008.

The nine caches included more than 29,000 small arms rounds, 170 mortar rounds and assorted fuses, 104 artillery rounds, 47 grenades, 86 rocket propelled launchers, 15 anti-personnel and tank mines and two SA-7 surface-to-air missiles.

Also found at the sites were several compressed gas cylinders, 10 pounds of high explosives and an assortment of detonation cords, triggering devices, electrical blasting caps, fuses, primers and several cell phones.

The sites also included more than 35 rockets, rocket launchers, igniters, propellants and several AK-47s with magazines and 50cal machine gun.

"2nd Battalion 24th Marines brings a unique skill set to the fight, being reservists they apply knowledge from their civilian jobs to today's battlefield.

Numerous Marines in the battalion are law enforcement officials, they know how to work the streets.

They know how to work with the local citizens, finding this cache is an example of a well trained battalion working with the locals to accomplish the mission,” said Maj. Matthew Reid, current operations officer, Regimental Combat Team 1.

An EOD team collected the weapons cache for disposal.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18385&Itemid=21

AND MORE DIRTBAG CACHES GO UP IN SMOKE, COMPLIMENTS OF OUR MARINES! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-19.gif

HOORAH AND ROCK ON!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gif

AEOakley

April 11th, 2008, 9:28 pm

Footage of Coalition forces from Multi-National Division -- Baghdad, operating an unmanned aerial vehicle, observing a large group of criminals with rocket-propelled grenade launchers and a mortar tube in northeast Baghdad at approximately 9:30 p.m. April 10. The UAV fired a Hellfire missile killing six heavily armed criminals at approximately 9:45 p.m. Provided by Multi-National Division Baghdad.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gNNJJrcIa7A
:flag:

Footage of U.S. Soldiers using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) to fire a hellfire missile and kill two armed terrorists in a group that had been firing on Iraqi and coalition forces. Provided by Multi-National Division Baghdad.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qDOnOYMjW3g

rhet 2

April 12th, 2008, 12:16 am

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gNNJJrcIa7A
:flag:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qDOnOYMjW3g

WOW! Star Wars already yet even! Gotta love it!

rhet 2

April 12th, 2008, 2:46 am

Bump

Actually, I can hardly wait for the next installment.

Our troops are sooooooooooo FINE!

rhet 2

April 12th, 2008, 11:11 am

Sorry.

But I've just got to salute this Son of America:

* Hometown: Denham Springs, LA
* Awarded: Bronze Star with "V"

Unit: Army, 101st Airbourne (Air Assault)

Benjamin Marshall

The Story:

Separated from his platoon and nearly surrounded by eight al Qaeda fighters, Sergeant Benjamin Marshall had a decision to make: run for cover, stranding his two pinned comrades; or sprint across enemy fire and assume a position to shoot back. Marshall chose the latter, in what he would later call the defining moment of his life.

July 7, 2006, during a mission in Tharthar, Iraq, Marshall, two fellow soldiers and an Iraqi interpreter entered a farmhouse – one of several they had been searching all day after receiving intelligence on a possible al Qaeda training camp in the area. After Marshall and one of his comrades, Staff Sergeant Christopher Schroeder, cleared the first room, an unknown man darted into another room, pointed his rifle out the doorway and blindly sprayed 7.62 rounds at the soldiers from his AK-47. Schroeder was hit twice. The two men on point, the wounded Schroeder and Sergeant Williams Wills, quickly sought cover in an adjacent room as a tremendous wall of automatic weapons fire began coming down on all three soldiers.

The interpreter got out of the house but Marshall knew his soldiers could not get out unless he was able to take up a firing position outside. Looking back, he said “I don’t know how, but they never saw me.” Marshall remembers he had to run right by the terrorists in an effort to get outside, only to find a position in a dilapidated chicken coop. The terrorists attempted to close in on Wills and Schroder’s position, but Marshall’s expertly aimed shots stopped them.

As the battle wore on, it became apparent to Marshall that these were well-trained and determined fighters. As the gunfire continued inside the house, Marshall could hear the fervent chanting of the al Qaeda fighters, but the fate of his men remained a mystery. After hearing a volley of grenades near his soldiers’ last location, Marshall feared the worst. When he heard the thunderous clap of a flash bang grenade exploding near the insurgents’ position, only then did he breathe a sigh of relief.

As the platoon leader’s Humvee approached, Marshall shouted out the status of his injured brothers-in-arms to the vehicle’s gunner. His communication was critical, but it alerted the insurgents and drew fire onto his position. Round after round of machine gun fire ripped apart his thin cover, nearly taking his life. Yet becoming the insurgent’s target was exactly the diversion Marshall had hoped for to take the pressure off his fellow soldiers. This maneuver enabled the injured soldiers to signal to the four U.S. gun trucks. A Humvee, now at Marshall’s position, provided him with cover to then pull up alongside the building to evacuate the other two American soldiers.

Not a day goes by when Marshall does not think of that life-changing experience in Tharthar. In a split second he made the decision to save the lives of his fellow soldiers rather than run for cover. He picked "the hard right over the easy left," and because of that was awarded the Bronze Star with "V" device for exceptionally meritorious heroism in July of 2007.

http://www.defenselink.mil/heroes/profiles/marshallB.html

A man my grandkids can look up to and admire and try to be like!

AN AMERICAN: he saw his duty to his comrades, and he did what had to be done :clap: :flag:

Larry, Curly & Mohamed

April 12th, 2008, 12:37 pm

Iraqi militias feeling pushback

This is from the MSM people - -

What this means: Iraqi Tribes Turning Against Iranian And Al Sadr Militias In Mirror Of Anbar Awakening Against Al Qaeda

Bottom-up rebellion against terrorists, move toward reform, reconcilitation and peace, as Iraqis continue to realize America was truly a liberator, and Iran and Al Qaeda were the true colonialist invaders…if the Republican Party can play their cards right, then the greatest irony in modern American politics should come to pass: The Iraq War should be the strong horse that the Party rides back to power on…

http://washingtontimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080412/FOREIGN/561785141/1001
Tribal leaders in southern Iraq are starting to push back against Iranian-supported militias in Basra, cracking their hold over the economically crucial province, Gen. David H. Petraeus and Ambassador Ryan C. Crocker said yesterday at two separate roundtable interviews with reporters.

The militia led by anti-American cleric Muqtada al-Sadr "is something that has to be dealt with," said Gen. Petraeus at a meeting with reporters at the Pentagon.

"The population has turned against the militia in most areas in Basra. Interestingly, it has turned against them in a number of areas in Baghdad as well," the top U.S. commander in Iraq said, though he cautioned that turning against the militias does not necessarily mean that the population "will act on it."
Mr. Crocker said he had returned from a recent visit "sobered by the extent ... the militias had free rein in Basra."

The U.S. envoy added that he got "an earful" of complaints from southern sheiks about the behavior of the militias, who are believed to be influenced and supplied by Iran.
Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki "tapped into this" frustration and the Iraqis now are "standing up tribal lines as contract security forces" to help battle the Shi'ite militias, Mr. Crocker said, although he did not say whether these tribal forces had participated in the battles in Basra in the last two weeks.
Meanwhile, in the Shi'ite holy city of Najaf, gunmen yesterday killed a senior aide to Sheik al-Sadr, a pro-Iran cleric who nominally controls militias from Basra to Baghdad that are clashing with U.S. and coalition forces.
The aide, Riyadh al-Nouri, was killed as he drove home after attending prayers. Authorities in Najaf immediately announced a citywide curfew and deployed security forces on the streets, the Associated Press reported.

The cleric's office issued a statement in which Sheik al-Sadr promised he would not "forget this precious blood" but urged his followers to "be patient," called for "an investigation [to] punish the criminals. We call upon all political and religious groups to work toward ending the killing of clerics."

But still, Sheik al-Sadr blamed the killing on "the hands of the occupiers and their stooges reaching out traitorously and aggressively against our dear martyr."

Gen. Petraeus, who called the al-Nouri killing a "cause for significant concern," said he did not know the "basis" for Sheik al-Sadr's statement, as the U.S. has no forces in Najaf and it "is under provincial Iraqi control."

"I'm sure that there will be pledges to bring to justice whoever it was that carried out this murderous action," he said, adding that he also expected "rapid efforts among the leaders of the different parties to communicate with each other and to work together to preserve the calm that has prevailed in Najaf."

He added that this is "an act that we condemn, as do all other Iraqi leaders and coalition forces."

Mr. al-Maliki, a Shi'ite, condemned "this savage crime" and ordered an investigation "to pursue and arrest the killers," but many of the thousands of mourners at Mr. al-Nouri's funeral later yesterday chanted "al-Maliki is the enemy of God."

The killing came as U.S. troops battle their way into Sheik al-Sadr's Baghdad stronghold of Sadr City and less than two weeks after a showdown between his Shi'ite militias and Iraqi forces in Basra.
Mr. al-Maliki's decision at the end of March to confront the militias in Basra and regain control of Iraq's second-largest city has been praised by U.S. officials. He also won a measure of political support from Sunni and Kurdish groups, and gained credibility from some Shi'ites fed up with the militias' violent street tactics.
Although Sheik al-Sadr is able to rally large numbers of armed supporters, the level of his control over all the militia who claim loyalty to him has been questioned. A U.S. defense official familiar with Sheik al-Sadr said that the sheik has been viewed as "erratic" by both the Iranians and some of his own people.
But he remains an important political figure; his followers walked out of the current Cabinet and still hold a strong bloc in the Iraqi parliament.

"He is a significant political figure, and clearly, if he is willing to work within — we want him to work within the political process in Iraq," said Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates.

Adm. Michael Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told reporters yesterday he felt Sheik al-Sadr was "somewhat of an enigma" and it was not clear what would happen next.

"I think Sadr clearly is a very important and key player in all this. Exactly where he's headed and what impact he'll have long-term I think is out there still to be determined," Adm. Mullen said.

In 2004, Sheik al-Sadr's followers led an uprising against the U.S. and Iraqi authorities that quickly spread through central and southern Iraq before it was crushed in Najaf. His followers also helped to push the country to civil war with attacks against Sunnis after a Shi'ite holy mosque in Samarra was bombed in February 2006.
Despite the influence and weapons Iran has provided the Shi'ite militias, Mr. Crocker said, Iranians were not going to take over Iraq.
"My sense is the harder they push, the more resistance they encounter," he said at a breakfast meeting with reporters.
President Bush yesterday said he has no intention of attacking Iran but said he would act to protect Americans or Iraqis from Iranian actions in neighboring Iraq.
"The message to the Iranians is: We will bring you to justice if you continue to try to infiltrate, send your agents or send surrogates to bring harm to our troops and/or the Iraqi citizens," he said in an interview with ABC News.
Asked for details on that "justice" meant, Mr. Bush replied: "It means capture or kill, is what that means."

In the same interview, Mr. Bush said the U.S. has no intention of attacking Iran in the dispute over the Islamic Republic's nuclear program. When ABC asked whether it was his intention not to attack Iran, he responded: "exactly." He elaborated that while "I have always said all options need to be on the table my first effort is to solve this issue diplomatically."

I'm going out on a limb and will be the first to say:

WE DID IT! We won this! Although not over, this is it boys & girls!

Be prepared, Iran ain't gonna like this.....

rhet 2

April 12th, 2008, 12:52 pm

AEOakley

April 12th, 2008, 8:55 pm

AEOakley

April 12th, 2008, 9:01 pm

Loyal American

April 12th, 2008, 9:42 pm

I just joined a few days ago. Amazing; I have been reading all the posts in this thread and I have to tell you that it is so inspiring.

More importantly, post by post you have captured the day to day of war. Sad losses, great gains all in hours and posts.

To whoever does this thread, thank you. It warmed my soul. I wll read it daily now.Welcome aboard belit! :D We're glad you like the thread, our troops ROCK! :flag:

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Soldiers Weed Out Sadr City Terrorists
Saturday, 12 April 2008

BAGHDAD — Days after intense fighting, and the call to peace from Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr March 30, Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers patrol the outskirts of Sadr City, a district of Baghdad, ensuring the safety of the city’s residents.

Sadr City has been the backdrop of many conflicts for Coalition forces since the beginning of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003. The city is the poorest of all the Bagdad districts and has historically been a safe haven for terrorists.

The Soldiers from Company A and a platoon from Company B, 1st Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, attached to 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, MND-B are tired, dirty, and work 24-hours a day with only cat naps to sustain them, but they relentlessly take to the streets in their mission to drive terrorists out of the area.

What began as a 96-hour tasking on March 26 turned into an open ended mission.

Capt. Scott Bailey, Company A commander, said the mission in support of combat operations was a success.

“We had some significant contact when we first arrived,” said Bailey, a Running Springs, Calif., native, “but we planned good company attacks and now it is pretty quiet here.”

CLICK on photo to read more:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/080412_fea3_med.jpg (http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18413&Itemid=1)
Sgt. 1st Class Craig McNeal, a native of Hollandale, Miss., pounds fists with an Iraqi boy while on patrol in Sadr City, a district of Baghdad, April 1. McNeal is the platoon sergeant for 4th Platoon, Company A, 1st Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, attached to 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Christina Bhatti, 2nd Stryker Brigade 25th Infantry Division.

GOD BLESS OUR TROOPS! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththththAmericanFlag-Animated--12.gif

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gif

Loyal American

April 12th, 2008, 9:47 pm

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Coalition forces return fire after complex attack in Sadr City (Baghdad)
Friday, 11 April 2008

BAGHDAD – Multi-National Division – Baghdad soldiers, in a combined operation with Iraqi Army soldiers, killed several criminals in eastern Baghdad after their convoy was attacked by multiple road side bombs, and small-arms fire from adjacent high rise buildings April 11.

At approximately 9 p.m., soldiers from 1st Combined Arms Battalion, 68th Armor Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division soldiers, supporting Iraqi Army soldiers from the 42nd Brigade, 11th IA Div., killed two criminal snipers, two criminals firing rocket propelled grenades, and multiple others from a nearby building where soldiers were taking RPG and machine gun fire.

At the same time, soldiers from 1st CAB, 68th AR were transporting barriers, in support of Iraqi Army soldiers establishing a checkpoint, when two vehicles in the convoy were damaged when they struck more than six improvised explosive devices.

Small-arms fire, including sniper fire, machine-gun fire and RPGs were fired from buildings overlooking the road. Iraqi Army soldiers and 1-68 AR soldiers immediately returned fire with 7.62mm and 25mm small arms, killing at least four Special Groups members.

Secondary explosions were observed from the building immediately after, possibly indicating arms and munitions were stored in the building.
Small-arms fire continued to come from nearby buildings until 1st CAB, 68th AR engaged the buildings with two 122mm rounds from a M1A2 Abrams tank, killing two criminals and ending the small-arms attack.

At approximately 10:20 p.m., Airmen assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 3rd BCT, operating an unmanned aerial vehicle reconnaissance platform identified three criminals emplacing additional IEDs.

The UAV fired one Hellfire missile, killing all three criminals.

“The most important part about what happened is that this was a combined mission, only two vehicles were damaged, no U.S. or Iraqi Army soldiers were seriously injured, and we went on to complete our mission,” said Maj. John Gossart, executive officer, 1st CAB, 68th AR, 3rd BCT, 4th Inf. Div.

“We are ever vigilant against criminals who commit random acts of violence and we will relentlessly hunt down these criminals who hide among Iraq’s law-abiding people.”

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18388&Itemid=21

OUTSTANDING JOB TROOPS, THANK YOU!!!
http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-19.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gif

Loyal American

April 12th, 2008, 9:58 pm

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Weapons Find in Janabi Village Thwarts Future Attacks
Saturday, 12 April 2008

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CAMP STRIKER — Iraqi Army Soldiers found a weapons cache in Janabi village, April 6, likely preventing future attacks in the area.

Soldiers from 4th Company, 4th Battalion, 25th Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division uncovered a cache containing (21) rocket propelled grenades, three RPG launchers, a complete mortar system, approximately (200) assorted fuses and blasting caps, eight 120 mm mortars, two 120 mm rockets, (18) 57 mm anti-aircraft rounds and a variety of grenades. The 120 mm mortars and anti-aircraft rounds were prepped for use as improvised explosive devices.

Additionally, there was an assortment of other IED components, timers, propellants and batteries.

Photo enlarged in link:

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18411&Itemid=1

NICE JOB IA!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gif

Loyal American

April 12th, 2008, 10:05 pm

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Five wanted individuals, 20 other suspects detained
Saturday, 12 April 2008

BAGHDAD – Coalition forces captured five wanted individuals and 20 additional suspects during operations targeting the al-Qaeda in Iraq foreign terrorist and car bombing networks Friday and Saturday.

Coalition forces captured an alleged foreign terrorist facilitator and three additional suspected AQI terrorists in northwest Iraq Friday. The wanted man is believed to be responsible for coordinating the movement of terrorists into Iraq from several countries.

Saturday, operations in Mosul and Sharqat targeted a foreign terrorist facilitation network. Coalition forces captured three wanted individuals believed to help terrorists link up with AQI operations and leadership cells. The ground force also detained 13 additional suspects. During one operation in Mosul, Coalition forces used explosives to breach a door, igniting some materials within the target building. Iraqi emergency units responded and extinguished the fire.

In Sharqat, a vehicle with two suspected terrorists inside refused to stop for Coalition forces. Coalition forces were forced to engage the vehicle in order to stop it, wounding one suspected terrorist. The wounded suspected terrorist was taken to a military medical facility for treatment and has been detained, along with the other suspected terrorist in the vehicle.

Elsewhere in Baghdad, Coalition forces captured an alleged enabler and two additional suspects believed to be involved in the Baghdad car bombing network during two coordinated raids in the city Saturday.

“Iraqis have chosen a future without terrorism, and they refuse to welcome foreign criminals who seek to disrupt their country’s future,” said Cmdr. Scott Rye, MNF-I spokesman.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18392&Itemid=21

25 DIRTBAGS OUT OF COMMISSION!

AWESOME JOB TROOPS!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-19.gif

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gif

Loyal American

April 12th, 2008, 10:25 pm

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Humanitarian Aid Drops Provide Food, Water for Hundreds
Saturday, 12 April 2008

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CAMP STRIKER — Iraqi Army (IA) and 101st Airborne Division Soldiers conducted three humanitarian aid drops near here, April 6 and 8.

Soldiers with 2nd Battalion, 25th Brigade, 6th IA Division, along with 3rd Battalion, 320th Field Artillery, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division, distributed multiple pallets of water, food and hygiene items in two separate drops, April 6. The supplies were dispersed through the Qadasiyah apartments, the neighborhood of al Mu'adefeen and a school in al Askery, all in the vicinity of Mahmudiyah.

The third drop took place in the town of Abu Farris, April 8, in a combined effort with Civil Affairs Team A, Company A, 411th Civil Affairs Battalion, and Company B, 3rd Battalion, 187th Infantry Regiment, 3rd BCT, 101st Abn. Div. That drop consisted of five pallets of water, one water purifier and two boxes of tea.

Photo enlarged in link:

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18412&Itemid=1

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gif

AEOakley

April 12th, 2008, 10:47 pm

Welcome aboard belit! :D We're glad you like the thread, our troops ROCK! :flag:

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Soldiers Weed Out Sadr City Terrorists
Saturday, 12 April 2008

BAGHDAD — Days after intense fighting, and the call to peace from Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr March 30, Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers patrol the outskirts of Sadr City, a district of Baghdad, ensuring the safety of the city’s residents.

Sadr City has been the backdrop of many conflicts for Coalition forces since the beginning of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003. The city is the poorest of all the Bagdad districts and has historically been a safe haven for terrorists.

The Soldiers from Company A and a platoon from Company B, 1st Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, attached to 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, MND-B are tired, dirty, and work 24-hours a day with only cat naps to sustain them, but they relentlessly take to the streets in their mission to drive terrorists out of the area.

What began as a 96-hour tasking on March 26 turned into an open ended mission.

Capt. Scott Bailey, Company A commander, said the mission in support of combat operations was a success.

“We had some significant contact when we first arrived,” said Bailey, a Running Springs, Calif., native, “but we planned good company attacks and now it is pretty quiet here.”

CLICK on photo to read more:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/080412_fea3_med.jpg (http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18413&Itemid=1)
Sgt. 1st Class Craig McNeal, a native of Hollandale, Miss., pounds fists with an Iraqi boy while on patrol in Sadr City, a district of Baghdad, April 1. McNeal is the platoon sergeant for 4th Platoon, Company A, 1st Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 2nd Stryker Cavalry Regiment, attached to 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Christina Bhatti, 2nd Stryker Brigade 25th Infantry Division.

GOD BLESS OUR TROOPS! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththththAmericanFlag-Animated--12.gif

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gif

Great story...great photo...and GREAT WORK BY OUR TROOPS!! :flag:

AEOakley

April 12th, 2008, 10:55 pm

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Local sheiks in Balad discuss the way forward during a Qadah meeting with the governor of the Salah ad Din province on April 3. Both Sunni and Shia sheiks attended the meeting together for the first time in more than a year. Photographer: Spc. Richard Rzepka 1st Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (AA) Public Affairs

Sunni and Shia Sheiks Unite in Balad

By Spc. Rick Rzepka
1st Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division

BALAD, Iraq – For the first time since sectarian tension embroiled the Balad area, Sunni and Shia sheiks and local community leaders gathered in the same place to promote unity amongst the myriad of tribes.

More than one hundred sheiks and tribal elders from the communities of Duluiyah, Ishaki and the surrounding area gathered in a town-hall style meeting on April 3 to discuss repairing fractious differences in an attempt to bring peace and prosperity to the citizens of the region, which is comprised of about 40 percent Shia and 60 percent Sunni.

While tensions mount in the southern province of Basra, Shia and Sunni leaders have pledged cooperation and unity in the Balad area in an effort to stimulate the local economy through recent security gains.

Among the Shieks and elders, the governor of the Salah ad Din province, Hamad Hamood Shekti, was all smiles as he spoke enthusiastically about the way forward for the Iraqi people.

“There is hope here today,” said Shekti who praised the sheiks for setting aside their differences to build on common ground.

“Today we are not Shi’a or Sunni, we are Iraqis,” he said.

Employment and security were on the minds of most of the Iraqi influencers as they clamored over which comes first, jobs or guns. For many here, the answer is jobs.

“We must be able to support our families,” said a Sunni sheik.

“We must be able to work together,” he said.

:clap: :clap: :clap:

Read the REST here: http://www.dvidshub.net/?script=news/news_show.php&id=18386

Loyal American

April 13th, 2008, 12:25 am

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Local cooperation brings in multiple suspects (Jisr Diyala)
Saturday, 12 April 2008

BAGHDAD – Multi-National Division – Center Soldiers from 3rd Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, conducted a clearing operation with Iraqi Policemen from 3rd Brigade, 1st National Police Division in Jisr Diyala, southeast of Baghdad, April 11.

The operation resulted in the detaining of eight suspects, including a key individual connected to improvised explosive device attacks, sectarian violence, indirect fire attacks and weapons smuggling in the Mada’in Qada.

The combined force cleared 35 houses and confiscated several weapons and ammunition drums.

“It was a very good combined operation,” said Capt. Brian Gilbert, from Boise, Idaho, commander of Company D, 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, currently attached to 3-1st Cav. Regt.

“There was excellent communication between our air support and our troops on the ground. We were able to track down people who were trying to run. Our cordon was very effective. Everything went perfectly.”

The Soldiers and NPs, acting on information provided by local citizens, were able to quickly find their target without endangering residents in the area.

“The people of Jisr Diyala have sent a loud and clear message to the combatants there: ‘We no longer support you. We only support progress,’” said Capt. DaMond Davis, from Montgomery, Ala., the fire support officer for 3-1st Cav. Regt. “The numerous tips that we received validate that the people of this area are fed up with violence.”

Gilbert said the NP brigade has made tremendous strides.

“Our cooperation is a perfect example of the relationship the surge created between Iraqi Security Forces and Coalition forces,” Gilbert said. “This police brigade is a perfect example of what right looks like and should be used as a model. These guys definitely do the right things when no one is looking … I will fight with them every day. They performed well during this operation.”

The 1-15th Inf. Regt. and 3-1st Cav. Regt. are assigned to the 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 3d Infantry Division, from Fort Benning, Ga., and have been deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom since March 2007.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18414&Itemid=21

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gif.........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gif.........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gif.........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gif.........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gif.........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gif.........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gif

Loyal American

April 13th, 2008, 1:16 am

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Coalition Forces capture suspected Special Groups criminal
Saturday, 12 April 2008

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition forces detained a suspected Iranian-trained Special Groups weapons facilitator Saturday during operations northeast of Baghdad.

The targeted individual allegedly carried out attacks against Coalition forces and Iraqi citizens.

Coalition forces entered the targeted building where they secured the area and detained the suspect without incident. Coalition forces also confiscated a heavy weapon (machine gun) and a sniper rifle.

“Coalition forces will continue to pursue and bring to justice Special Groups members and other criminal elements that refuse to comply with the rule of law,” said Cmdr. Scott Rye, MNF-I spokesman.

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MND-C Soldiers aid residents, remove weapons cache (Baghdad)
Saturday, 12 April 2008

BAGHDAD – The Sons of Iraq in Nine Nissan, a village east of Baghdad, led Multi-National Division – Center Soldiers in Battery A, 1st Battalion, 10th Field Artillery, to a weapons cache buried at a remote location near FOB Hammer, April 10.

The cache was destroyed by MND-C Soldiers from 789th Ordnance Company (EOD), from Fort Benning, Ga., currently attached to the 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, at the site.

The cache contained 18 rockets, 14 mortars, 10 105 mm shells, 10 103 mm shells and two tank rounds.

The SoI in Sabbah Nissan have found and led the 3rd HBCT to multiple caches since their group formed two months ago.

Earlier that day, MND-C Soldiers from Battery A and local Iraqi leaders conducted a humanitarian mission to deliver food, medicine, water and supplies to the people of Najidat, southeast of Baghdad.

Leaders of the Nine Nissan council had requested aid for the small village at their regular meeting earlier in the week.

The 1-10 FA is assigned to the 3rd HBCT, 3rd Infantry Division, from Fort Benning, Ga., and has been deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom since March 2007.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18416&Itemid=128

GREAT JOB CF AND SOI!!!
http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-19.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gif

Loyal American

April 13th, 2008, 8:53 am

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Foreign-Born Troops Become U.S. Citizens in Largest Naturalization Ceremony in Iraq
Sunday, 13 April 2008

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CAMP VICTORY — Two hundred fifty-nine foreign-born U.S. troops currently serving throughout Iraq became American citizens at al-Faw Palace here April 12, in the largest naturalization ceremony to date in Iraq.

Among the newest citizens were several Soldiers who entered the United States as refugees from war-torn nations, including Spc. Simon Nbenye, an Arabic interpreter with Company D, 1st Battalion, 30th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division.

Born in war-ravaged Sudan, a place where youth are sometimes snatched from their homes and forced to fight as child soldiers in a bloody civil war, Nbenye and his family faced religious and racial persecution from the Arab-Islamic government.

“The situation was terrible for my family,” Nbenye said. “No jobs, no finances and too, too much violence.”

Part of the Nbenye family, including Simon, moved to the Sudanese capital, while other family members stayed south in the town of Maridi. Fearing his son would be forced to become a soldier, Nbenye’s father urged his son to flee Sudan.

“They go to your home, knock on your door and ask your father where you are. If he refuses to get you, they kill him, get you and put you in the army. There is no guarantee you’ll ever make it back home alive and they send you down to kill your own people,” Nbenye said. “I had friends from school who were captured, sent to fight and I have never seen them again.”

Travelling illegally through several countries in Africa including the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia and Egypt, Nbenye finally connected with the United Nations office in Cairo and gained refugee status. He entered the United States legally in 2001.

“When they granted me refugee status, it gave me so much hope,” Nbenye said. “It meant for me a chance to start a new life in a safe place.”

In 2006, upon hearing the Army needed Arabic speakers to help with the Global War on Terrorism, Nbenye, fluent in Arabic, enlisted.

“America did something good for my life and my family by accepting me, so I decided I want to do something for the American people, to show them I am grateful,” Nbenye said.

Until he came to the United States, he had never truly experienced freedom, Nbenye said. “My whole life, there is war in my country. No peace, never knowing for sure if you go out, you’ll come back home. In America things are different. I feel safe.”

Now that he is a citizen, Nbenye hopes to get a better job, visit his family in Sudan and help them become American citizens too.

More than 40,000 service members are not American citizens, according to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). These foreign-born men and women have pledged commitment to the U.S. Constitution by serving in the military and many are availing themselves of a July 2002 executive order making members of the Armed Forces immediately eligible to apply for citizenship.

Nearly 5,000 service members have earned U.S. citizenship while serving abroad since 2004.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18421&Itemid=1

CONGRATULATIONS! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththththAmericanFlag-Animated--12.gif

Loyal American

April 13th, 2008, 9:11 am

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One terrorist killed, 11 suspects detained in northern Iraq
Sunday, 13 April 2008

BAGHDAD – Coalition forces killed one terrorist and detained 11 suspected terrorists while targeting al-Qaeda in Iraq in the northern part of the country Saturday and Sunday.

South of Bayji Sunday, Coalition forces targeted suspected members of a bombing network that covers a swath of Iraq from Tikrit to Anbar province. When Coalition forces entered the target building, they detained two armed men. One terrorist ran out the back and was subsequently killed when he resisted capture.

Coalition forces disrupted the AQI foreign terrorist facilitation network with two missions Sunday. Using information from operations Apr. 3 and 8, the ground force captured four suspected terrorists in Rabiyah, northwest of Tal Afar, including an alleged close associate of one of the network’s leaders. In Mosul, Coalition forces detained one man believed to conspire with foreign terrorist facilitators.

Another mission Sunday in Mosul led Coalition forces to an alleged AQI leader in the city. The suspect is believed to coordinate attacks against Iraqi and Coalition forces, and supervise cell operations in eastern Mosul. One additional suspected terrorist was detained in the operation.

Saturday, Coalition forces continued to pursue the AQI propaganda network and detained two suspected terrorists northwest of Tuz Kharmatu, south of Kirkuk.

“We remain resolute in our mission to disrupt al-Qaeda in Iraq and foil their ability to attack Iraqi civilians and the security forces that protect them,” said Lt. Col. Maura Gillen, MNF-I spokeswoman. “The Iraqi people do not share the terrorists’ extremist values.”

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18427&Itemid=21

12 DIRTBAGS OUT OF JOBS! GREAT JOB TROOPS!

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-19.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gif

Loyal American

April 13th, 2008, 10:13 am

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In one corner of Baghdad’s violence, the motive is money

By James Warden (wardenj@estripes.osd.mil), Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition, Sunday, April 13, 2008

BAGHDAD — In a country where the motivations for violence are rarely simple, the conflict in the Hurriyah area of Baghdad is almost refreshingly straightforward.

“It’s all about the money,” said Capt. Gavin Rice, commander of Company A, 1st Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, the unit that oversees much of the area.

While the area has seen its share of sectarian violence, much of the current strife comes from Shiite criminal gangs trying to shake down co-religionists who are new to the area.

The current situation has its roots in sectarian conflict, though. The border between local Shiite and Sunni neighborhoods originally lay roughly in the center of Hurriyah. Shiite groups gradually pushed the Sunnis farther and farther south until few of them remained in the area.

The displaced Sunnis left behind hundreds of vacant homes. The militants invited residents from Shiite strongholds like Sadr City to move into the empty homes, Rice said.

But the militants who control Hurriyah soon began charging the newcomers rent for the homes plus “security fees” to avoid being harassed, he said. Masked men on scooters drove around at regular intervals collecting money, which the militias then used to fund their operations.

Like rival gangs, factions inevitably started squabbling over the lucrative take, Rice said. They murdered each other and fought for control of the cash flow.

“We dislike the situation,” Iraqi army Sgt. Jasim Hamadi, a checkpoint commander, said through an interpreter. “We must prevent this situation. It’s a big problem.”

Solving that problem is tricky. If the Americans force a Shiite family out of an occupied Sunni home, someone burns down the home. If a family refuses to pay the extortion fees, someone burns down the home.

The soldiers rely heavily on psychological operations units to put out the word that no one must pay for security. But armed criminal groups go through the neighborhoods afterward to make it clear that they still have control.

To read more, CLICK on below photo:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/54017_412155036.jpg (http://www.stripes.com/article.asp?section=104&article=54017)
Second Lt. Chris Pees, a platoon leader with Company A, 1st Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, chats with Iraqi army Sgt. Jasim Hamadi about the situation in the Hurriyah neighborhood of Baghdad. Shiite criminal groups have been demanding “security money” from fellow Shiites.

Additional photo:

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Zahara, 12, holds her younger sister while American soldiers search her home April 6 in the Hurriyah neighborhood of Baghdad. The soldiers had received a tip that someone had hidden weapons in the area, but they did not find anything.

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Second Lt. Chris Pees, left, a platoon leader in Company A, 1st Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, confers with 20-year-old Pfc. Ryan Louviere 6 in the Hurriyah neighborhood of Baghdad on April 6 while investigating a tip that someone had hidden weapons in the area. The information did not lead to any weapons caches.

IT'S GOOD THAT THE CITIZENS REPORTED THIS EXTORTION! HARD TO FIX A PROBLEM WHEN YA DON'T KNOW IT EXISTS!

JenT

April 13th, 2008, 10:14 am

Don't bother reading this if you're determined to believe U.S. troops can't accomplish anything worth accomplishing in Iraq.

For the rest of you, here's something we won't hear/read from the MSM, but I believe it's news worth hunting for:

IA, CF detain 4 insurgents, find cache and rescue 2 hostages
By Multi-National Division – North PAO
Last Updated: Nov 21, 2006 - 6:40:36 AM

Blackanthem Military News, TIKRIT, Iraq – Soldiers from the 3rd Brigade, 5th Iraqi Army Division and Task Force Lightning Soldiers from 6-9 Armored Reconnaissance Squadron, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, apprehended four suspected insurgents, recovered two kidnapped victims and seized a sizeable weapons cache Nov. 19 during an operation north of Muqdadiyah.

Read all about it here:

http://www.blackanthem.com/News/Allies_20/IA_CF_detain_4_insurgents_find_cache_and_rescue_2_ hostages.shtml

God bless ALL our troops!
www.operationgratitude.com
:flag:

Thanks AE! Great way to wake up!

Loyal American

April 13th, 2008, 10:26 am

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththth02paper-19.gif ...... ANOTHER IRANIAN TRAINED DIRTBAG SNATCHED UP BY OUR TROOPS!

Coalition Forces capture Iraqi criminal suspected of being trained in Iran
Sunday, 13 April 2008

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Coalition forces detained an Iraqi citizen suspected of being an Iranian-trained intelligence operative, along with three other Iraqi criminals Sunday during operations near Balad.

The targeted individual allegedly collected intelligence on Coalition forces and airbases and delivered it to Iranian intelligence agents.

Intelligence led ground forces to the target area where they captured the wanted individual and the other suspected criminals without incident.

“Coalition forces will continue to seek out and bring to justice suspected criminals such as this individual who ignore the rule of law and threaten the security of Iraq,” said Cmdr. Scott Rye, MNF-I spokesman.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18429&Itemid=128

HOOAH!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-19.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gif

Loyal American

April 13th, 2008, 12:50 pm

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Sons of Iraq Screened for ISF
Sunday, 13 April 2008

FORWARD OPERATING BASE KALSU — Sons of Iraq eager to join the Iraqi Security Forces participated in an initial screening in Muellha, Iraq.

Iraqi Security Forces, Coalition forces and local leadership held the screening, designed to gauge which SoI members are eligible to continue forward with the transition process into the ISF.

“We were doing a Sons of Iraq screening so we can transition the SoI into the Iraqi Security Forces,” said Capt. Kaiwan Walker, commander of Company D, 2nd Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment.

Leadership from 2-502nd Inf. Regt., attached to 4th Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, Iraqi Army and Iraqi Police leadership and the Mayor of Iskandariyah evaluated the applicants.

“Prior to the screening, each SoI had to fill out an application that had his fingerprints and picture on it,” Walker said.

More than 300 SoI lined up outside the Muellha Agriculture Building where the event was held. Once inside, they waited to be called in one by one to be reviewed by the leadership.

CLICK on photo to read more:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/080413_sod_med.jpg (http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18418&Itemid=1)

GOOD LUCK SOI!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gif

Loyal American

April 13th, 2008, 3:11 pm

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Iraqi National Police discover cache, detain five (Baghdad)
Sunday, 13 April 2008

BAGHDAD – Iraqi National Police discovered a weapons cache inside a truck southeast of Baghdad April 13.
The NPs found the truck after receiving a tip from a local citizen.

The cache included 541 anti-tank mines warheads, 100 rocket fuses, 29 120 mm mortars, five rocket-propelled grenade and seven 107 mm rockets.

Five suspects are being held for questioning in connection to the cache.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18433&Itemid=21

Fourth cache discovered within 10 days in Kirkuk

KIRKUK, Iraq – Iraqi Soldiers discovered a weapons cache in Kirkuk, April 12.

This is the fourth large cache found in this area within 10 days and the largest of the four with over 600 munitions of varying sizes.

The cache included approximately 20 projectiles, more than 600 mortar rounds and dozens of rockets as well as several grenades.

The location of this cache and the three others found earlier this were likely used to stockpile munitions for distribution to smaller cache sites closer to routes frequently traveled by coalition forces.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18431&Itemid=21

GOOD JOB IA, IP AND IRAQI CITIZEN!

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gif

EVERYDAY A DIRTBAG CACHE GOES POOF IS A GREAT DAY! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththclap3-28.gif

AEOakley

April 13th, 2008, 4:48 pm

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Sgt. Amanda E. Timmer, head of the Women’s Initiative for the Wasit Provincial Reconstruction Team, speaks with an Iraqi woman with the help of an interpreter at the new women’s sewing center at Muafiqiyah, Iraq April. 10. U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Carlos J. Lazo.

Women’s Sewing Center Opens
Sunday, 13 April 2008
By Staff Sgt. Carlos J. Lazo
214th FB PAO

AL-KUT — A women’s sewing center officially opened in Muafiqiyah village April 10, providing both employment and training for female residents.

The center will serve as a means for local women to earn income to support their families, said Sgt. Amanda E. Timmer, head of the Women’s Initiatives program for the Wasit Provincial Reconstruction Team.

The center employs 11 women from the village, one for each sewing machine. Eventually these women will take apprentices, doubling the workforce, said Timmer.

“The plan is not only to employ women, but to train them, provide them a skill,” Timmer said.

Selection for the initial group was specifically aimed at single mothers whose spouses had died and who had no other means to provide for their families, said Timmer.

This is the first project in Muafiqiyah the PRT has undertaken, said Timmer, and was used to establish a relationship with the village.

The project resulted from collaboration between local leaders in the village, the PRT and the Wasit Provincial Council.

The initial assessment took place in early March, after Hadi al-Yasiri, a member of the council and a contractor the PRT had worked with before, asked the PRT to visit Muafiqiyah, his hometown.

The sewing center was nothing more than an empty building next to the mayor’s office, said Lt. Col. Robert Jones, PRT deputy team leader. After the assessment, a complete refurbishment of the center was conducted over the course of ten days by al-Yasiri.

Timmer said the sewing center will be overseen and run by Ahmad Nouri Ali al-Yasiri, head of the Muafiqiyah local council. All the materials currently at the center where provided by the council and will be used by the women to create clothing, she said.

The clothing produced by the women will be sold locally and - if there is a demand - at the al-Kut markets, said al-Yasiri. The council will oversee sales, with part of the profits going to maintain the center, fund operations and purchase materials.

The remaining income will be handed over to the women to support their families. In this way, Timmer said, the center not only supports the women, but allows them to contribute to the community.

:clap: :clap: :clap:

Found here: http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18419&Itemid=110

Loyal American

April 13th, 2008, 8:50 pm

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MND-B Soldiers detain suspected criminal ringleader, 8 other suspects (Baghdad)
Sunday, 13 April 2008

BAGHDAD – Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers captured a suspected criminal leader in southern Baghdad April 12.

The criminal suspect is accused of conducting crimes against Iraqi Security and Coalition forces operating in the Rashid district of Baghdad.

Soldiers from the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, conducted the search and seizure operation based upon a tip provided by a concerned local Iraqi.

The Soldiers also detained eight others suspected of being involved with the suspected ringleader in conducting crimes against the Government of Iraq and MND-B.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18434&Itemid=21

9 DIRTBAGS OFF THE STREETS!

GREAT TIP AND AWESOME JOB TROOPS!

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththclap3-28.gif.....http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gif

Loyal American

April 13th, 2008, 11:20 pm

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Port City is Open for Business
Sunday, 13 April 2008

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Commodities are offloaded from ships at the UMM Qasr Port, from all over the world to be distributed throughout Iraq April 11. These goods will be transported to different provinces through out the country. The Port of Um Qasr, is a small port city southeast of Basra. DoD photo.

UMQASR — UmQasr, a port city southeast of Basra, is filled with daily activities, as Iraqi workers load export and unload imports last week.

“The estimated flow of goods into Iraq is 60,000 tons with 15,000 passing through UmQsar,” said Todd Stratton, Task Force to Support Business and Stability Operations in Iraq.

“The single largest commodity is food such as wheat, rice, sugar and other food items,” Stratton said. “The port is a critical gateway to supply the Iraqi nation with food imports.”

According to Stratton, the port has a grain silo that can process 7,500 tons a day with 5,000 tons being hauled away.

“A ferry comes to Dubai a few times per week,” Stratton said.

Iraqi Security Forces provided a secure working environment for the Iraqi dock workers to perform their daily jobs.

The Passenger Hall at the port is nearing complete refurbishment, and will soon be fully-operational for passengers and merchants alike.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18420&Itemid=1

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gif..........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gif..........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gif..........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gif..........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gif..........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gif..........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-19.gif

Loyal American

April 14th, 2008, 9:16 am

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MND-B Soldiers defend themselves, kill 6 criminals (Eastern Baghdad)
Monday, 14 April 2008

BAGHDAD – Multi-National Division - Baghdad soldiers killed six criminals after they were attacked in eastern Baghdad at approximately 10:30 p.m., April 13.

Soldiers from 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, were attacked by rocket propelled grenades while conducting a patrol in their M1A2 Abrams tank. A rotary-wing air weapons team was called in to assist the soldiers on the ground.

The aircrew witnessed armed criminals hiding behind a parked vehicle and another in an open field. The air weapons team engaged and killed the lone individual. Moments later, soldiers in the M1A2 identified additional armed criminals on the rooftop of a nearby building. The criminals then attacked the soldiers with RPG fire. In self defense, the tankers engaged the armed men, killing five criminals.

“Coalition forces will continue to defend themselves against criminals who ignore the rule of Iraqi law,” said Lt. Col. Steve Stover, MND-B spokesman. “We will do so with precision and definitive force.”

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18442&Itemid=21

Air Weapons Team kills IED triggerman, wounds one (Jabella)
Sunday, 13 April 2008

CAMP VICTORY, Iraq – One criminal was killed and another wounded after being engaged by an air weapons team in Jabella April 12.

The AWT was providing aerial protection for a Coalition force convoy when an improvised explosive device struck one of the vehicles. The AWT observed the strike and identified two individuals near the scene as the triggermen. Once the triggermen were positively identified, the AWT engaged them with their primary gun system, killing one and wounding the second.

The wounded criminal was treated for injuries and remains in the custody of Coalition forces.

The use of AWTs enhances the safety of Coalition force personnel and provides additional lethality in taking the fight to the enemy.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18435&Itemid=21

GOD BLESS OUR TROOPS!

AWESOME JOB, THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gif

Loyal American

April 14th, 2008, 9:51 am

Loyal American

April 14th, 2008, 10:50 am

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One terrorist killed, 14 detained in operations targeting AQI leaders
Monday, 14 April 2008

BAGHDAD – Coalition forces killed one terrorist and detained 14 suspected terrorists while targeting al-Qaeda in Iraq’s senior leaders and criminal operations Sunday and Monday.

In eastern Baghdad Sunday, Coalition forces used information from an operation Feb. 7 to target a senior leader in the Baghdad AQI propaganda network. When the ground force entered the building, one man drew a weapon. Coalition forces responded to the hostile threat by engaging and killing the armed man. One suspected terrorist was detained, and Coalition forces gathered information that led them to a second target in the area where they detained an additional suspect.

Coalition forces conducted two missions targeting the AQI bombing network Monday. In a precision operation in Bayji, the ground force captured an alleged associate of the area’s bombing cell. Farther south, Coalition forces detained two suspected terrorists in Tikrit, one of whom is allegedly linked to a senior terrorist leader in the Baghdad bombing network.

Three operations Monday targeted AQI senior leaders. North of Taji, Coalition forces captured a suspected close associate of a senior terrorist leader. Southwest of Tal Afar, Coalition forces captured a suspected AQI terrorist believed to be responsible for the group’s finances in the region and one additional suspect. Two women were slightly injured when the ground force breached the door of the target building, but they were treated on site. Four suspected terrorists were detained in Mosul during an operation targeting AQI senior leaders there.

West of Samarra Monday, Coalition forces detained two individuals allegedly involved in the AQI foreign terrorist facilitation network.

“We will not let up in our mission to dismantle al-Qaeda in Iraq,” said Cmdr. Scott Rye, MNF-I spokesman. “Terrorists have no regard for the law, which the Iraqi people have embraced as a step toward peace.”

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18443&Itemid=128

15 DIRTBAGS OUT OF COMMISSION!

FANTASTIC JOB TROOPS!http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththclap3-28.gif

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththththafro-28.gif

Loyal American

April 14th, 2008, 12:20 pm

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Afghan Veterinarian, Civil Affairs Team Help Ranchers

BAGRAM AIR BASE, Afghanistan, April 14, 2008 – Government veterinary officials in Afghanistan’s Farah province, assisted by coalition forces, treated animals and taught local shepherds how to care for their livestock at an event at Farah Fire Base.

The civil affairs team stationed at the Farah Fire Base helped the provincial veterinarian in hosting the event April 2. Dr. Gulam, the provincial veterinarian, coordinated and organized the event by putting out radio messages and sending his technicians to remote villages to invite ranchers to the event. The civil affairs team organized the supplies and requested volunteers from the provincial reconstruction team’s medical personnel to assist with the event.

“We wanted to treat [the animals] because it’s the right thing to do,” the civil affairs team’s medic said. “Normally, the animals would get nothing in the way of veterinary treatment.”

Overall, the animals brought in were “fairly healthy,” the team sergeant said.

All of the animals were treated for worms. Gulam gave two of the sickest animals antibiotics and asked the ranchers to bring the animals in for a follow-up appointment. He also taught the ranchers how to administer the de-worming medicine to their herds.

“The short-term goals involved inoculating the herds for worms and legitimizing the provincial government’s veterinarian program for animal husbandry,” the team sergeant said.

Officials said the ranchers will see increased income resulting from healthier livestock and that the effort will engender long-term confidence in the provincial veterinary office.

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Dr. Gulam, provincial veterinarian for Afghanistan’s Farah province, teaches a goat shepherd how to de-worm his livestock during a mission at the Farah Fire Base, April 2, 2008. The local coalition civil affairs team, along with Gulam, organized and coordinated with local shepherds to have them come to the firebase to treat their animals. Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force Afghanistan photo

http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=49561

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-20.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-20.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-20.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-20.gif

Loyal American

April 14th, 2008, 1:07 pm

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SOI repel checkpoint attack, kill 2 AQI near Balad
Monday, 14 April 2008

BALAD, Iraq – Two al-Qeada in Iraq terrorists attacked an Abna al-Iraq, or Sons of Iraq, checkpoint near Balad April 14.

Acting in self-defense, the Sons of Iraq repelled the small arms fire and rocket propelled grenade attack, engaging and killing the two terrorists.

During the engagement, six local civilians, including several children, and one Iraqi Army officer were wounded.

The wounded were initially taken to a local hospital. They were later transported to a Coalition force hospital for additional treatment.

“It is heartbreaking that innocent people here suffer from the brutal attacks of AQI,” said Maj. Johnpaul Arnold, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division spokesman. “These Sons of Iraq acted bravely, defending the people’s safety in a populated area while under heavy fire from terrorists. They did very well.”

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18461&Itemid=21

GOD BLESS THE SOI STANDING THEIR GROUND!

MAY YOUR WOUNDED SOLDIER AND ALL YOUR INNOCENT CIVILIANS AND CHILDREN RECOVER
FULLY! :pray:

rhet 2

April 14th, 2008, 1:34 pm

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SOI repel checkpoint attack, kill 2 AQI near Balad
Monday, 14 April 2008

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http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18461&Itemid=21

GOD BLESS THE SOI STANDING THEIR GROUND!

MAY YOUR WOUNDED SOLDIER AND ALL YOUR INNOCENT CIVILIANS AND CHILDREN RECOVER FULLY! :pray:

May the Iraqi Fight for Freedom be forever seen and honored across the globe!

True men, fighting to defend their children, from the most evil racial and religious bigotry yet seen.

And DAMN the islamic imperialists who DARE endanger the lives of innocent children for the sake of their own greed for glory and power and stolen lives, stolen wealth, stolen honor.

God bless the Sons of Iraq and the innocent mothers and children they defend with their own lives.

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/iraq_now.gif

Long may this flag wave in honor and respect among all men.

AEOakley

April 14th, 2008, 2:11 pm

Thanks AE! Great way to wake up!

Thank YOU, JenT! :) Glad you like the thread -- please feel free to post any GOOD NEWS stories you come across! Our U.S. troops are doing an awesome job!!

Loyal American

April 14th, 2008, 3:13 pm

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththth02paper-20.gif ...... Afghanistan update and it's a beauty too!!! :clap::flag::clap::flag:

Joint Forces in Afghanistan Detain Haqqani Network Commander

WASHINGTON, April 14, 2008 – A militant network commander was detained during a joint Afghan and coalition operation to disrupt bombing operations in Afghanistan’s Khowst province April 12.

The combined forces searched several compounds in the Gurbuz district, detaining the individual, a commander in the network led by Jalaluddin Haqqani, a high-level Taliban leader. Officials said the individual captured is associated with bomb-facilitation and financial- and logistical-support operations.

The combined force also detained three other individuals with suspected ties to the targeted militant, as well as Haqqani network bomb-facilitation and support operations.

During an investigation of a mosque on one of the compounds, the Afghan forces also discovered an ammunition vest and several grenades. Coalition forces remained outside the mosque.

In addition, the combined forces found a weapons cache that included a machine gun, grenades, AK-47 assault rifles, pistols, shotguns, ammunition vests and associated ammunition on the compound. All weapons and explosives were destroyed.

Coalition forces also released the identity of six extremists detained during a joint Afghan and coalition forces operation in Khowst province on March 12. The extremists -- identified as Mohammad Ghanam, Khan Gul, Nik Mohammad, Sheikh Soup, Ahmad Jan and Mohammad Wali -- were apprehended in several compounds in the Tani district.

Mohammad Ghanam, 33, was one of two militants who were the focus of the operation. He was directly involved in the preparation of car bombs for the Haqqani network and has conducted attacks against coalition bases throughout Afghanistan.

He has transported ammunition, grenades, rockets and a rocket launcher across the Afghanistan border. He also is believed to have conducted a rocket attack against an Afghan border control checkpoint. In addition, Ghanam facilitated five fighters who conducted an attack on the Avran Beesseem telephone tower in the Tani district.

At the time of his capture, Ghanam possessed grenades, ammunition vests, rifles, including AK-47s with ammunition magazines, a rocket-propelled-grenade booster, bomb-making material, anti-coalition documents and Hezb-I-Islami Gulbuddin “night letters,” threatening messages left in public places.

Khan Gul, 70, the second of the two targeted militants, is a bomb expert for the Haqqani network. He is known to have transported explosives across the border into Afghanistan and is a key financier between the Haqqani network and an improvised-explosive-device cell in Khowst province.

Nik Mohammad, 25, is an anti-coalition militant fighter directly involved in the facilitation of finances and materials for homemade bombs. Nik Mohammad is believed to have conducted a rocket attack against an Afghan border control point and provided storage of bombs at his residence. At the time of his capture, Nik Mohammad possessed grenades, ammunition vests, an AK-47, ammunition magazines and a rifle.

Sheikh Soup, 42, was directly involved in facilitating attacks against coalition forces and several other targets within Afghanistan. He is known to have been a primary transporter of bombs in the Khowst province and has had a significant role in anti-coalition militia activity in the area.

Ahmad Jan, 60, is a known Taliban militant, who has facilitated bombing operations for the Haqqani network and is linked to significant anti-coalition militia activity in the Khowst province.

Mohammad Wali, 23, also known as Moud Wali, was involved in multiple bomb attacks and militant financing operations in the Khowst area.

http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=49566

OUTSTANDING JOB! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-20.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-20.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-20.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-20.gif

Loyal American

April 14th, 2008, 5:29 pm

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School Receives Soccer Uniforms
Monday, 14 April 2008

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FORWARD OPERATING BASE ISKAN — One of the first things Soldiers noticed on the ground in Jurf as Sahkr, Iraq, was how much local residents loved soccer. In area businesses, soccer posters adorned the walls, while children made soccer fields out of empty lots and played heated matches.

Soldiers from 3rd Platoon, Company A, 3rd Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, gave the local secondary school a boost in pursuit of their favorite sport.

First Lt. Kevin Brown, a native of Indianapolis, along with members of his platoon, presented the headmaster of the Jurf Secondary School a complete set of soccer uniforms; enough to outfit a 16-man team, including a goalie and referee uniform.

The intent was to help the school build pride, motivation and ethics through the dedication and competition that is associated with school team sports, said Brown.

The headmaster enthusiastically accepted the gift.

“The uniforms are excellent and I will put them to good use,” said Yasin, the headmaster. “They will be a big help for the school.”

The platoon left the uniforms with the headmaster and returned the following day to take a team photo.

Enthusiasm beamed on the faces of the young players as they hurriedly started kicking the ball around in the school courtyard, wearing their new uniforms.

The headmaster thanked the Soldiers for the gift and the care they have shown the school.

“These young adults are very important because they are the next generation of Iraq and the future, and because of that we are very willing to help the school out as much as possible,” Brown said.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18460&Itemid=1

OH SOOOO SWEET! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-20.gif

THANK YOU TROOPS! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-20.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-20.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-20.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-20.gif

Loyal American

April 14th, 2008, 7:08 pm

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Iraqi Army Sgt. Yousef Yacob stands at attention Sunday in Taji, Iraq, at the beginning of a graduation ceremony for students in the master trainer’s course. The course aims to teach noncommissioned officers so that they can train their fellow soldiers.

Iraqi master trainers graduate

By James Warden (wardenj@estripes.osd.mil), Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition, Tuesday, April 15, 2008

TAJI, Iraq — An Iraqi and an American general had already spoken to the audience Sunday when Iraqi Army Sgt. Yousef Yacob took the stage during the graduation of the first master trainer’s course for Iraqi troops.

Yacob was the top graduate in the course, but his speech followed some eloquent words by his superiors. When he got up there, though, he thundered out a moving poem on patriotism and the beauty of the Iraqi capital that won the loudest applause of the day.

“My brothers, today is a special day,” he began.

The moment was an appropriate one to conclude a course that aims to raise the status of Iraqi noncommissioned officers like Yacob.

In Western armies, NCOs have historically had an important role, said Brig. Gen. Robin Swan, commander of the Coalition Army Advisory Team. The NCOs are the first-level tactical decision-makers and responsible for training troops to standard.

But Iraqi NCOs, like those in other Middle Eastern armies, have traditionally not had the responsibilities than their Western counterparts had. The master trainer’s course prepares the Iraqi NCOs to take on those responsibilities, said 1st Sgt. Howard Anderson, the course’s first sergeant.

“It is time to recognize that the enlisted man is more than a follower,” Anderson said. “He is a leader, and the officers must use him this way … The enlisted man in the Iraqi army must not be like a flock of sheep who must be herded.”

The students practiced many skills during the 19-day session: Working together in combat teams, learning to handle prisoners and studying roadside bombs.

Yet Yousef said no single skill in the course stood out above the others. Instead, the class focused on an overall method to help the NCOs pass along their knowledge to other Iraqi soldiers.

That method focuses on “down in the dirt” hands-on training in contrast to the more common lecture style, Swan said.

“No soldier, regardless of Army or branch of service, learns by not doing,” he said.

The soldiers won’t have to wait long to put that method into action. Many like Yacob will form the cadre for future master trainer’s courses. Yet he and his fellow students are undeterred.

“We’re doing the best we can for our country and doing the best we can for our Army,” he said. “We keep our head high and walk tall.”

http://www.stripes.com/article.asp?section=104&article=54050

GOOD LUCK TO THESE NCOs!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-20.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-20.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-20.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-20.gif

rhet 2

April 14th, 2008, 7:13 pm

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Iraqi Army Sgt. Yousef Yacob stands at attention Sunday in Taji, Iraq, at the beginning of a graduation ceremony for students in the master trainer’s course. The course aims to teach noncommissioned officers so that they can train their fellow soldiers.

Iraqi master trainers graduate

By James Warden (wardenj@estripes.osd.mil), Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition, Tuesday, April 15, 2008

TAJI, Iraq — An Iraqi and an American general had already spoken to the audience Sunday when Iraqi Army Sgt. Yousef Yacob took the stage during the graduation of the first master trainer’s course for Iraqi troops.

Yacob was the top graduate in the course, but his speech followed some eloquent words by his superiors. When he got up there, though, he thundered out a moving poem on patriotism and the beauty of the Iraqi capital that won the loudest applause of the day.

“My brothers, today is a special day,” he began.

The moment was an appropriate one to conclude a course that aims to raise the status of Iraqi noncommissioned officers like Yacob.

In Western armies, NCOs have historically had an important role, said Brig. Gen. Robin Swan, commander of the Coalition Army Advisory Team. The NCOs are the first-level tactical decision-makers and responsible for training troops to standard.

But Iraqi NCOs, like those in other Middle Eastern armies, have traditionally not had the responsibilities than their Western counterparts had. The master trainer’s course prepares the Iraqi NCOs to take on those responsibilities, said 1st Sgt. Howard Anderson, the course’s first sergeant.

“It is time to recognize that the enlisted man is more than a follower,” Anderson said. “He is a leader, and the officers must use him this way … The enlisted man in the Iraqi army must not be like a flock of sheep who must be herded.”

The students practiced many skills during the 19-day session: Working together in combat teams, learning to handle prisoners and studying roadside bombs.

Yet Yousef said no single skill in the course stood out above the others. Instead, the class focused on an overall method to help the NCOs pass along their knowledge to other Iraqi soldiers.

That method focuses on “down in the dirt” hands-on training in contrast to the more common lecture style, Swan said.

“No soldier, regardless of Army or branch of service, learns by not doing,” he said.

The soldiers won’t have to wait long to put that method into action. Many like Yacob will form the cadre for future master trainer’s courses. Yet he and his fellow students are undeterred.

“We’re doing the best we can for our country and doing the best we can for our Army,” he said. “We keep our head high and walk tall.”

http://www.stripes.com/article.asp?section=104&article=54050

GOOD LUCK TO THESE NCO!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-20.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-20.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-20.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-20.gif

YES! This was part of the missing component for Iraqi fully independent and effective self-defense -- no NCOs able and willing to think and operate independent of officers with a gun at their head to dictate their every move Saddam/Soviet style!

WAY TO GO, IRAQIS! You do be catching up and getting the skills you need to defend your homeland from the damned invaders and wanna-be slavers determined to shove you back into the Bad Old Days.

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You do your nation and the Alliance proud! :clap:

AEOakley

April 14th, 2008, 11:00 pm

MND-B Soldiers seize munitions in Rashid

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
RELEASE No. 20080415-04
April 15, 2008
Multi-National Division – Baghdad PAO

BAGHDAD – Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers discovered a weapons cache, April 12, while patrolling the streets of the Rashid district in southern Baghdad.

Soldiers from Troop C, 7th Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division unearthed five rounds of unexploded ordnance during the continued effort to provide security and stability to the 1.2 million Iraqi citizens who reside in the district.

The 1st BCT, 4th Inf. Div., continues to conduct daily combat patrols with Iraqi Security Forces to minimize violence and the “Raider” Brigade remains committed to providing a safe and secure environment for the Iraqi nation and the Iraqi people as a whole.

:flag: :clap: :flag:

Found here: http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18472&Itemid=21

Loyal American

April 15th, 2008, 12:49 am

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Iraq’s Largest Power Plant Awaits Improvements
Monday, 14 April 2008

FORWARD OPERATING BASE ISKAN — There’s a reason the lights never go out at FOB Iskan, and it’s not because of Coalition forces.

The brightly-lit Iskandariyah Thermal Power Plant located there has been chugging along since long before troops arrived.

The plant is the dominant visual feature of FOB Iskan, with four enormous smokestacks rising above an imposing labyrinth of iron girders, spindly ladders and steaming pipes.

The electricity is churned into existence at Iskan, which runs on Iraq’s plentiful supplies of raw crude oil.

“There are three ways raw crude can get here: by tanker truck, by train and through an old pipeline,” said Capt. David Stewart, FOB Iskan’s mayor and resident expert on the power plant. “At the moment, it all comes in on trucks, but the trains may be running again soon.”

Built in the 1980s by South Korea’s Hyundai Corp., the plant employed Iraqi, German, Russian and Korean workers throughout its service.

The plant’s initial productivity was short-lived, however – during Desert Storm in 1991, the plant was knocked out of commission by Coalition warplanes.

Rebuilt in 2001, it is now one of the largest employers of skilled laborers in the region, with about 1,200 full-time employees and 400 temporary workers.

CLICK on photo to read more:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/080414_sod_med.jpg (http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18457&Itemid=1)

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Loyal American

April 15th, 2008, 8:46 am

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Coalition forces detain 18 suspected al-Qaeda in Iraq terrorists
Tuesday, 15 April 2008

BAGHDAD – Coalition forces detained 18 suspected terrorists Monday and Tuesday during operations targeting the al-Qaeda in Iraq terrorist network in the Tigris River Valley and northern part of the country.

Coalition forces analyzed intelligence from several sources to develop a series of operations targeting key links in the AQI network west of Samarra. Ground forces conducted eight missions there Monday and Tuesday and detained 12 suspected terrorists.

In Bayji Tuesday, Coalition forces captured an alleged weapons facilitator also believed to work with an AQI leader who directs attacks in the area. The ground force detained two additional suspected terrorists.

Iraqi and Coalition forces conducted an operation Tuesday in Kirkuk targeting an individual believed to conspire with foreign terrorists and support the AQI propaganda network, detaining one suspect.

“We continue to use the information we get from each operation to further target al-Qaeda in Iraq and the terrorists who carry out its brutal attacks,” said Cmdr. Scott Rye, MNF-I spokesman. “We’re systematically dismantling the network from the top and bottom.”

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=18476&Itemid=128

DISMANTLE AWAY TROOPS, YOU ARE DOING AN OUTSTANDING JOB!

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththclap3-20.gif.....http://i102.