More GOOD NEWS out of Iraq / SAFE Haven - NO POLITICS

[Loyal American]

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Medical Expo Reinforces Disease Prevention

11.05.2008 at 06:13AM

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CAMP TAJI, Iraq – Teaching children how to prevent diseases and the basics of proper sanitation can help break the cycle of diseases and help keep the people of Iraq healthy.

Soldiers from 2nd Squadron, 14th Cavalry Regiment “Strykehorse,” 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team “Warrior,” Multi-National Division – Baghdad, joined with local doctors, nurses, pharmacists, officials and Iraqi army medics to teach the residents of Fahad Fadhil, northwest of Baghdad, how to keep themselves healthy during a Medical Expo Oct. 30, 2008.

Approximately 250 residents turned out to listen as their local providers presented classes and took advantage of the opportunity to get to know them.

“We want to show the people that these officials care,” said Sawsan, a women’s and children’s rights worker and a member of the city council. “When they have a problem, we want them to know they can come to us.”

Sawsan said she hopes this will help instill a sense of confidence in the government of Iraq for the residents of the area.

“By seeing them out here, it gives the people a chance to interact with officials and get them more familiar and comfortable with them.”

The providers taught the basics on the prevention of diseases, such as cholera and typhoid.

“What is really important to us is that the Iraqi populace is already educated in many of these problems,” said Capt. Drew Webb, a native of Monterey, Calif., a physician assistant assigned to 2nd Sqdn. 14th Cav. Regt.

Webb said the Soldiers took a backseat role and had the “privilege to observe” local providers “reiterate what the people in the town already knew.”

The children who attended the classes performed songs they learned in school about diseases and answered questions posed to them. Webb said he was impressed by the knowledge the children and adults already had.

“There are not a lot of sick people here,” Webb said, “so they are doing something right.”

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Spc. Brett Seaver, a native of Winstead, Conn., assigned to Company B, 52nd Infantry Regiment, attached to 2nd Squadron, 14th Cavalry Regiment “Strykehorse,” 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team “Warrior,” Multi-National Division – Baghdad, leads a group of girls into a disease prevention class during a Medical Expo in Fahad Fadhil, northwest of Baghdad, Iraq, Oct. 30, 2008.

http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=images/images_gallery.php&action=viewimage&fid=126522

GOOD JOB, TROOPS, THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-8.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-8.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-8.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-8.gif

[Loyal American]

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Predators on Patrol in Afghanistan

11.05.2008 at 07:16AM

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BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan – As the demand for intelligence, reconnaissance and surveillance assets in Afghanistan increases, a small group of Airmen at a base in the southern region of the country are working to meet the demand.

The 62nd Electronic Reconnaissance Squadron maintains and operates the MQ-1 Predator, an unmanned aerial system whose primary mission is interdiction and conducting armed reconnaissance against critical, perishable targets.

“Our primary job here is to launch and recover Predators for the mission crew,” said Maj. Rick Wageman, a pilot deployed from Cannon Air Force Base, N.M. “Anything else we do on top of that is gravy because we have the ability to support local stuff.”

Local stuff refers to any troops in contact calls the aircrew might receive where they can operate a line of sight mission.

“Troops on the ground will report a contact and we will get our eyes there as quick as possible,” Maj. Wageman said. The Predator is equipped with a day variable-aperture TV camera and a variable-aperture infrared camera that provides the pilot with full-motion video allowing them to track and target insurgents.

Maj. Wageman is a prior F-16 pilot with more than 1,000 flight hours, 250 of which are combat hours. After switching over to the Predator less than a year ago, he already has more than 300 Predator hours, 250 of which are combat support hours.

CLICK on photo to read more:

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AWESOME, THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-8.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-8.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-8.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-8.gif

[Loyal American]

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Iraqi Police Seize Cache in Field Near Jisr Diyala

11.05.2008 at 08:10AM

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BAGHDAD – Iraqi police from the Jisr Diyala local police station seized a weapons cache stored in a field near their police station, Nov. 3, 2008.

A local resident near Jisr Diyala observed suspicious people burying items in a nearby field and notified the local Iraqi police.

Jisr Diyala local police station and the IP commander, Maj. Kadhum, responded to the site of the suspected weapons cache.

Upon arrival at the site, the IP uncovered and confiscated six 60mm mortars and various amounts of belt-fed ammunition. After seizing the ammunition, Iraqi bomb recovery teams inspected and assisted the IP in taking the munitions from the cache.

“The bond between the Iraqi police and the people from the Jisr Diyala area demonstrates a strong trust between the IP and the people they protect, said Lt. Col. Michael Indovina, public affairs officer, 18th Military Police Brigade, Multi-National Division – Baghdad. “Situations where tips from local citizens initiating communications with the IP are evident of the bond through actions like this.”

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http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=25944

SWEET JOB, IA AND THUMBS UP TO THE IRAQI RESIDENT FOR THE REPORT!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-8.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-8.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-8.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-8.gif

[AEOakley]

One-minute video:

Story about the re-opening of Iraqi Airlines. Provided by Headquarters, 10th Mountain Division Public Affairs.

:clap: :clap: :clap:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ynFcOCxhd-g

[AEOakley]

This video is just over a minute-and-a-half long:

Package about how as security improves officials from the U.S. and Iraq are working together to recover and preserve artifacts. Provided by American Forces Network Iraq.

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

[Loyal American]

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Afghan National Security Forces, Coalition Forces Kill Insurgents in Kandahar Province
11.05.2008 at 11:01PM
KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Afghanistan – Afghan national security forces and coalition forces killed several insurgents during an extended patrol in Shah Wali Kott district, Kandahar province, Nov. 3-5, 2008.

Insurgents ambushed a coalition security patrol using rifles, machine guns, rocket propelled grenades and mortars. ANSF and coalition forces responded with a variety of weapons fire.

Witnesses reported seeing insurgents firing machine guns, rockets and RPGs from the rooftops of buildings in the area, as well as mortar teams firing around the ambush site.

Civilians, reportedly attempted to leave the area, but the insurgents forced them to remain as they continued to fire on the ANSF and coalition forces along the highway.

Kandahar Chief of Police Matulla stated he received reports of several civilians being injured while attempting to leave the area. It is unclear if they were the victims of the high volume of insurgent direct and indirect fire. The causes of their injuries are being investigated.

Coalition reports confirm nine insurgents were killed.

No ANSF or coalition forces casualties were reported.
http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=25969

Two Insurgents Killed in Khost
11.05.2008 at 11:06PM
BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan – Coalition forces killed an insurgent associated with the Haqqani foreign fighter facilitator network and one of his associates during and operation in Khost province, Nov. 5. 2008.

In Jaji Maidan District, coalition forces targeted an extremist known to assist the Haqqani terrorist network with the movement of insurgents into Afghanistan. These fighters have carried out numerous suicide and improvised explosive device attacks in the region.

The targeted insurgents did not to follow the instructions of the force and displayed hostile intent as the forced approached. The force engaged the insurgents with small-arms fire, killing both. http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=25970

GREAT JOB, TROOPS, THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-9.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-9.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-9.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-9.gif

[Loyal American]

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Marines Finding New Ways to Find Caches

11.06.2008 at 01:31AM

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KARMAH, Iraq – Marines in northern Karmah have been busy, finding hidden weapons caches daily for the last few weeks.

Since arriving to the area in August, the Marines, with 2nd Platoon, Company B, Task Force 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 1, have raked in more than 60 small arms, 50 mortars, hundreds of explosives fuses and various types of explosives, most of which they found over the last month.

But their finds did not come as easily initially during their deployment. The Marines have become more attuned to finding ordnance which each cache they find.

“We learn more with each cache,” said Cpl. Timothy Golden, a 21-year-old squad leader from Williamsburg, Va., with 2nd Platoon. “The story of each cache is told by how it was buried. After finding so many caches, we start to know what to look for.”

The Marines say they have adopted the mentality of desperate insurgents. They view the area as a grid, and while thinking like the enemy they scan for natural markers and areas where they would hide weapons.

Each cache find potentially saves scores of lives, both coalition and civilian, and significantly slows the insurgency.

“It feels good finding so many caches,” said Sgt. Marc Mcgarry, a 26-year-old squad leader from Rockland, Mass., with 2nd Platoon. “The more caches we find the safer Karmah citizens and Marines are.”

But the Marines say smaller, more easily defended attacks have been launched by desperate insurgents showing their frustrations.

Mcgarry said assaults on their post are regular after an active week of heavily denting insurgents’ weapons supplies.

“[Before], the enemy felt comfortable hiding things here,” he said. “And now there’s definitely blowback with each cache we find, or guys we detain. They’re basically ‘thumping their chest.’”

Karmah has been key terrain for the insurgents smuggling weapons into Anbar province, making the Marines’ role of influencing future security that much more important.

“We’re removing accelerants from the insurgency,” said Capt. Michael L. Mayne, the 35-year-old commanding officer of Company B, Task Force 1st Bn., 3rd Marines, from Napa, Calif. “We’re taking the gasoline from their tank, and we’re going to keep taking it.”

http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=25978

GREAT JOB, THANK YOU!!! :clap::clap::clap:
OUR MARINES ROCK!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-9.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-9.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-9.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-9.gif

[Loyal American]

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Afghan National Security Forces, Coalition Forces Kill Eight Insurgents Then Proceed on Scheduled Mission to Provide Humanitarian Aid in Oruzgan Province
11.06.2008 at 06:50AM
KABUL, Afghanistan – Afghan national security forces and coalition forces killed eight insurgents during a combat patrol in Khas Oruzgan District, Oruzgan province.

The patrol was headed toward a village to provide medical and humanitarian assistance to villagers when insurgents attacked the patrol with small-arms fire, machine-gun fire and rocket-propelled grenades from fighting positions near the road. ANSF and coalition forces returned fire, killing eight insurgents.

After the attack, ANSF and coalition forces continued on with their scheduled mission, reaching the village where they provided medical treatment to 90 villagers and distributed cold-weather items, including blankets and jackets.

No ANSF, coalition forces or civilian casualties were reported. http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=25987

GETTIN' THE JOB DONE!!! OUTSTANDING!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-9.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-9.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-9.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-9.gif

[Loyal American]

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/xinsrc_1cbea4e76f754cafa9b8b9f25-1.jpg ..... This is one of those bittersweet good news posts!

Heroic Efforts of Iraqi National Policemen Stop Attack at Checkpoint in Baghdad
11.06.2008 at 06:46AM
BAGHDAD, Iraq – National police stopped a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device as an al-Qaeda in Iraq terrorist attempted to transport it through a NP check point in the West Rashid area of Baghdad at approximately 5:45 p.m. Nov. 5, 2008.
While manning the checkpoint, policemen with the 3rd Battalion, 1st National Police Mechanized Brigade, using established security measures, stopped a vehicle loaded with an estimated 200 pounds of explosive material and three mortar rounds.

While stopped in the search lane, the vehicle detonated, killing the terrorist. The blast also killed two national policemen and wounded another.

“Three heroic Iraqi national police stopped a potentially catastrophic VBIED attack when they diligently stopped a terrorist from entering Airport Road at an NP checkpoint,” said Lt. Col. Steve Stover, spokesman, Multi-National Division – Baghdad.
http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=25986

AMAZING JOB, NIP, THAT NO DOUBT SAVED MANY LIVES!!!
MAY YOUR FALLEN BROTHERS REST IN PEACE AND THE WOUNDED NIP RECOVER FULLY!

[Loyal American]

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Soldier, Rotary Club Supply Iraqi Schools

11.06.2008 at 09:32AM

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JIKO, Iraq – Iraqi children peered at what seemed like a mountain of school supplies, anxiously waiting in line to receive their share for the new school year.

Army Cpl. Greg Farrell, an assistant team leader from Denver, attached to Task Force 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 1, and Marines with the unit delivered the supplies to schools throughout the Tri-cities area of Iraq, recently.

The supplies included folders, notebooks, numerous pens and pencils and several other items donated by the Southeast Denver Rotary Club.

Farrell had worked with his father Kevin, the Iraqi project director for the club, since April to arrange collection and delivery of the supplies.

“I would see a lot of children who didn’t have many school supplies,” Farrell explained. “So, I wanted to find a way to better equip the children for higher learning.”

Once the supplies arrived in Iraq, Farrell said he was eager to hand them out. With support from Marines with the battalion’s Mobile Assault Company, he was able to visit and pass out supplies at the kindergarten school in Sattack and the elementary and high schools in Jiko.

“Seeing the faces of the children makes the months of waiting and hassle well worth it,” said Farrell.

Kevin said the club was happy to assist with the contribution, knowing the supplies are being used to educate the future of Iraq.

“It’s a great feeling to know that these supplies will further the education of children who have experienced a lot of trauma in their lives,” Kevin told a media contact with Rotary International.

The club also donated several workbooks and teaching supplies to the schools’ principals and head masters.

Farrell is scheduled to return to the U.S. soon, but he intends to continue donations to help Iraq’s children.

“These children really need as much supplies as possible and there are good people back in Denver who want to help,” he said.

http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=25993

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-9.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-9.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-9.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-9.gif

[Loyal American]

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Iraqi Security Forces, Multi-National Division - Center Soldiers Celebrate Water Distribution System

11.06.2008 at 02:21PM

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CAMP STRIKER, Iraq – Local sheikhs, Iraqi army and coalition soldiers feasted in celebration of a water distribution system now complete in the Mahmudiyah Qada, Nov. 4, 2008.

“Before this system, some people had no water besides the dirty canal water,” said a local Sheikh Kagoob Joad al-Merce. “Now many of those people have clean drinking water for the first time in their lives.”

Six months ago, coalition forces helped to complete a water treatment plant for the region. The treatment plant could only supply a small amount of water to surrounding area.

Mr. Dean Michael, from Farmingdale, Mich., a bilingual bicultural adviser with the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division developed underground water distribution pipe system that enables clean drinking water from the treatment plant. This process provides water to more than 30,000 Iraqi citizens.

The project was funded through the Iraqi Commander’s Emergency Relief Program. Coalition and Iraqi security forces partnered to provide security during construction.

“It is good to see the people getting what they need, and I look forward to working with the coalition forces on future projects to improve the Qada,” said Col. Muhammad, commander of the Iraqi Army’s 3rd Battalion, 25th Brigade.

This project clearly emphasized to the local citizens the cooperative relationship between the coalition and the government of Iraq.

“I am glad I could see this finished. It’s great to see how many people we have helped,” said Capt. Benjamin Neasse, from Murfreesboro, Tenn., the civil affairs officer of the 3rd Battalion 320th Field Artillery, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division. “This is what I came to Iraq to do.”

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http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26013

GRRREAT!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-9.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-9.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-9.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-9.gif

[Loyal American]

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Infrastructure Coordination Element Team Manages Projects to Improve Iraqi Quality of Life

11.06.2008 at 05:38AM

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FORWARD OPERATING BASE FALCON, Iraq – Although capturing terrorists and finding weapon caches in Iraq make the headlines in the news, restoring essential services and key infrastructure elements to the citizens of Baghdad are considered by Soldiers of the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Multi-National Division – Baghdad, Infrastructure Coordination Element Team as the real victories in the Global War on Terror.

All coordination issues, from brainstorming for a contract to the final inspections of a multi-million dollar construction project, are handled by the ICE Team, which works coordination issues between Iraqis and coalition forces, said Maj. Tom Clark, ICE chief, assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Special Troops Battalion.

The restoration begins and ends with coordination from a small team of Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers, contractors and Iraqi civilians.

“We make sure the construction in sector is done to standard,” added Clark, who is part of the 1st BCT, 4th Inf. Div.

Staged at Forward Operating Base Falcon, Clark and his team of Soldiers and civilians work with members of the government of Iraq and the district council in southern Baghdad’s Rashid District.

Six Iraqi quality assurance and quality control inspectors help the ICE Team ensure contracts are completed to standard by holding local contractors accountable for the work produced.
The Iraqis are breaking through more than 20 years of negligence from the Saddam Hussein regime, and the ICE Team is working with them to overcome Iraq’s outdated infrastructure system, said Clark.

“It is heartening to see Iraqi patriots out there who put their lives at risk when things are bad in order to serve their own people,” Clark explained.

Clark and his comrades are currently serving a combat deployment with the 1st “Raider” Brigade, 4th Inf. Div., in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

CLICK on photo to read full release:

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[Loyal American]

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Sustainers Deliver New Desks to School in Muthanna

11.06.2008 at 11:28AM


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MUTHANNA, Iraq – Sustainers from the 7th Sustainment Brigade delivered over a hundred refurbished school desks to the newly built Al-Fadhliya secondary school Tuesday, as hundreds of Iraqi junior-high aged girls waited patiently outside.

The Ft. Eustis-based brigade delivered 120 newly refurbished desks, school supplies packed inside 533 colorful bookbags and 30 education kits for school instructors.

“The Muthanna PRT [Provincial Reconstruction Team] had met with Hamadi Mousa Abid Al Obaidy, Muthanna director of education, and found out that there was a warehouse full of metal desk frames in poor condition,” explained Maj. Robert Hudson, Civil Military Operations, 7th Sust. Bde. “We got a sample desk kit, and Chaplain Damon Saxton, 7th Sust. Bde. and a group of volunteer Soldiers with a background in carpentry figured out how best to utilize the wood needed to fix the desks and made a plan for their rebuilding. From there it all fell into place.”

“We are very pleased to be here today,” said Adel Fadela, deputy team leader Muthanna PRT, as he addressed the crowd of students, teachers and guests. “Today’s PRT project symbolizes the commitment to the development of education. Cooperation with the U.S. military and the U.S. State Department is what made this possible.”

Hudson couldn’t agree more. “The mission was a tremendous success,” he said. “We brought together Soldiers and Airmen from around the COB [contingency operating base] and worked on these desks and delivered them along with the bookbags and teaching kits, a gift from the heart of America. The country of Iraq is providing a better educational environment for these children with the government of Iraq funding and building this new school and Americans donating the supplies.”

“The Engineer Civic Action Program, or ENCAP, was the idea of a former PRT leader, Paul O’Friel,” said Hudson. “One night over dinner a group of us were discussing ways on how the brigade chaplains could help out in CMO projects as well as get the brigade’s Soldiers involved to help the people of Iraq and show them good will.”

“Muthanna is a shining example of stability in Iraq,” said Fadela. “Today we are celebrating the promotion of education.”

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[Loyal American]

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Afghan and Coalition Forces Target Improvised Explosive Device Networks
11.07.2008 at 01:16AM
BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan – Afghan and coalition forces detained four suspected insurgents during operations targeting the Haqqani and Taliban improvised explosive device and foreign fighter networks in Khost and Ghazni provinces, Nov. 6, 2008.

In Tirzaye District, Afghan and coalition forces detained two suspected insurgents during an operation that targeted a suspect associated with the Haqqani terrorist network. The targeted insurgent is suspected of being in direct contact with senior Haqqani leaders and assisting the network with the movement of foreign fighters into the region. The suspected insurgent is also believed to coordinate and direct IED attacks that indiscriminately injure and kill innocent civilians and coalition forces. The combined force conducted their searches without incident.

Coalition forces conducted a second operation, in Waghez District, aimed at disrupting the Taliban’s IED and foreign fighter networks. The operation netted two suspects.
http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26030

GREAT JOB, TROOPS!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-9.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-9.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-9.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-9.gif

[Loyal American]

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Paratroopers Honored at Awards Ceremony

11.06.2008 at 06:32PM

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Col. Timothy McGuire, commander of the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, awards the Army Commendation with Valor device to Spc. Christopher Marshall, a gunner with Company C, 2nd Bn., 505th PIR, for his actions against the enemy during a combat patrol in Samarra, Iraq.

The 2nd Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team honored four paratroopers for actions during the unit’s last 15-month deployment in Iraq from August 2006 through October 2007 during an awards ceremony, Oct. 31, 2008, at the battalion’s headquarters area.

Sgt. Anthony E. Zapata, a squad leader with Company A, 2nd Bn., 505th PIR, received the Purple Heart for wounds he sustained when an improvised explosive device detonated alongside his vehicle while on a battalion level raid.

Zapata said that, although he was reluctant to accept the award, he realized later on how much the award meant to him. It showed him that being recognized is something you should never take for granted.

Spc. Austin L. Kirby, Company B, 2nd Bn., 505th PIR, also received the Purple Heart after being wounded when two grenades were thrown in the direction of his combat patrol in the city of Adawar, Iraq. Kirby suffered wounds to the right side of his face, neck, shoulder and arm from shrapnel.

After receiving the medal, Kirby said that receiving the medal is not an award he ever wanted to be given, but the training and equipment he had saved his life and prevented him from receiving more serious injuries.

Staff Sgt. John C. Aughtman, a squad leader with Company B, 2nd-505th PIR, received the Army Commendation Medal with Valor Device for his actions after being knocked unconscious by a grenade that detonated beside his vehicle’s door.

When Aughtman regained consciousness, he assessed the condition of his men and immediately began administering first aid to wounded paratroopers.

Aughtman then continued caring for the wounded paratroopers until they were evacuated for further medical treatment.

Spc. Christopher Marshall, a lead turret gunner with Company C, 2nd Bn., 505th PIR also received the Army Commendation Medal with V Device after locating an enemy combatant and exchanging rounds during an engagement in Samarra. After fending off enemy fire and exchanging countless rounds, Marshall faced a dilemma when his machine gun ran out of ammo.

However, with no time to reload his primary weapon, Marshall grabbed his M4 rifle and fired causing the now fleeing enemy combatant to crash his vehicle into a light pole, allowing Marshall’s fellow squad members to dismount and neutralize the armed combatants.

After awarding the medals to the paratroopers, Col. Timothy McGuire, commander of the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, addressed the entire battalion, who were on hand for the presentation and asked them to give the receipts a round of applause. McGuire said he was proud of each of the awardees and thanked them for their service and sacrifice to the nation.

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Col. Timothy McGuire, commander of the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, congratulates Spc. Austin L. Kirby, a squad leader with Company A, 2nd Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, after presenting the Purple Heart for wounds he sustained when a grenade exploded near his combat patrol in the city of Adawar, Iraq. Kirby suffered wounds to the right side of his face, neck, shoulder and arm from the grenades' shrapnel.

http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26025

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/Coin1.gif

[Loyal American]

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/thththththth02paper-28-1-9.gif .....Two rather interesting and related stories in S&S today!

Haditha police making gradual progress

By Jimmy Norris (norrisj@pstripes.osd.mil), Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition, Friday, November 7, 2008

HADITHA, Iraq — Poor logistical support, struggles to decentralize command and possible corruption are among the things that frustrate Police Transition Team 1 as they struggle to transform Haditha’s police from the paramilitary force that once battled insurgents in the streets to a community police force that can work with the public.

"Higher [ups] won’t give them anything," said Staff Sgt. Mike Fogleman, Police Transition Team 1. "Anything they ask for — chairs, desks, pencils — they get seasonal uniforms."

Fogleman has been spending six days a week at the Haditha police station trying to help Iraqi police put together and maintain a system for ordering and keeping track of supplies ranging from furniture to ammunition. He said he’s frustrated over the difficulties in obtaining supplies from provincial authorities.

Read more, CLICK on photo:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/58674_116175031b.jpg (http://www.stripes.com/article.asp?section=104&article=58674)


AND RELATED STORY:

Haditha’s police chief called hero, ‘gunslinger’

By Jimmy Norris (norrisj@pstripes.osd.mil), Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition, Friday, November 7, 2008

HADITHA, Iraq — Some describe Haditha’s police chief, Col. Faroq Taih Hardan, as a heroic figure, and one of the only Iraqis in Haditha willing to stand up to insurgents at the height of violence in the region.

Others describe him as a strongman who ignores local laws and uses bullying tactics to advance his own position.

Police Transition Team commander Capt. Scott Newton describes Faroq as a "gunslinger" who’s struggling to adapt to a more stable environment.

Faroq took charge of Haditha’s police force in 2006, but helped lead the fight against insurgents in the area much earlier than that.

In November 2004, Faroq said, insurgents took over Iraqi police stations in Haditha and its suburbs, effectively gaining control of the city and keeping Iraqi police from working.

For two years, Faroq said, insurgents controlled the city.

"They killed a lot of civilians," Faroq said. "Haditha was a hard spot and people couldn’t live here anymore."

Faroq and three others who wanted to fight insurgents met with Marines and Special Forces soldiers in Kirkuk and offered to help.

Finish story, CLICK on link:

http://www.stripes.com/article.asp?section=104&article=58675

[Loyal American]

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Iraqi People Receive Much Needed Water

11.07.2008 at 05:45AM

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BAGHDAD – Multi-National Division-Baghdad Soldiers from the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division supplied Iraqis from the Adhamiyah district of Baghdad with much needed water Nov. 1, 2008 after terrorists attempted to destroy a vital waterline in the district Oct. 30.

Second Lt. Brendon McNichol, a platoon leader for the 1st Combined Arms Battalion, 68th Armor Regiment contacted Mohammed Mathoon, the Qahira Neighborhood Advisory Council chairman and Shaykh Adel Moohamad, the imam of Al Ani Mosque prior to the humanitarian water drop.

“Shaykh Adel Moohamad arrived and was extremely helpful organizing the local populace into a line to receive water,” said McNichol, a native of Morris, Conn.

McNichol said both Iraqi leaders assisted in the coordination of the mission while the government of Iraq immediately began working to repair the damage caused to the waterline.

The humanitarian mission consisted of two drops which started in the Wazeriyah neighborhood just north of the Al Ani Mosque and continued with a drop in the Qahira neighborhood at the Al Kindy School both in the Adhamiyah district of Baghdad. As Soldiers from Company A, 1-68 AR arrived on site they established security for the distribution point, while others prepared to hand out water bottles.

“The people of Wazeriyah were thankful for the water and waved as we headed for the next drop,” McNichol said.

“On behalf of the Adhamiyah City Council chairman we would like to thank the coalition forces and its initiative to help the Iraqi people,” said Abdul Hussein, District Advisory Council Energy chairman.

McNichol said the water drop also provided the platoon with the opportunity to pass out handbills and make speaker announcements asking for assistance from the population to help coalition forces and Iraqi security forces defeat the terrorists in Adhamiyah.

The people of both neighborhoods were thankful for the water they received and expressed their appreciation to the Soldiers.

“Thank you coalition forces for the water and brining help to the people,” said Waael Ibrahim, a muktar of Muhallah 309.

Over all, McNichol’s platoon distributed more than 10,000 water bottles and passed out 2,000 plus handbills.

http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26036

THANK YOU, TROOPS!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-9.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-9.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-9.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-9.gif

NOTE: Two stories and photo's posted on Pipeline terrorist attack can be found in this link:

http://forums.hannity.com/showpost.php?p=40898521&postcount=6727

[Loyal American]

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/Halloween_icon.gif ..... Our troops havin' some fun, love it when that happens! ;)


http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/126906.jpg
(left to right) Cpl. Zachary Gardner, Task Force 34, Headquarters signal support specialist of Waite Park, MN, Sgt. Gregory Opoien, TF 34 HQ network operations technician, Spc. Megan Hanft, TF 34 HQ signal support specialists, and Staff Sgt. Jodi Wald, TF 34 HQ orderly room non-commissioned officer of Blaine, MN, dressed up at the Headquarters and Headquarters Company 34th Combat Aviation Brigade's Halloween party at Joint Base Balad, Iraq on Oct. 31, 2008.


Trading Candy Apples for Combat Boots This Halloween

11.07.2008 at 08:06AM


Pirates, dead butlers and more! Oh my! For one night many scary and spooky things came out of the Task Force 34 Headquarters based in St. Paul, Minn.

All kinds of monsters came out … the night of Halloween. The Soldiers of TF34 HHC threw a bash to celebrate holiday with their battle buddies and peers.

“It helps break up the monotony of everyday work here and it is really good for teambuilding,” said Sgt. Jamie Mitre, TF34 HHC information operations non-commissioned officer. “People get to see each other out of the office and we get to know each other on a personal level.”

“I think it reminds us more of home,” said Cpl. Zachary Gardner, TF34 HHC signal support specialist and native of Waite Park, Minn. “We got to dress up and it gave us a little feeling from being back at home.“

The Soldiers who attended the party were met with music, dancing, a costume contest, Halloween trivia and more.

“It brings us closer as a unit, it brings us closer as friends and we get to hang out outside of the workplace,” said Cpl. Gardner, dressed as a Ghostbuster for the evening.

Even though the Soldiers were far, far away from the nearest superstore, many came dressed in festive, innovative costumes to celebrate the holiday.

“People got definitely got creative with their costumes,” said Sgt. Mitre, who also wore an original costume … an altered Army Combat Uniform which she titled ‘Battle Barbie’.

“They integrated everything from PT belts, to first aid supplies and ordering things online … people definitely expanded their creativity,” she said.

The Soldiers were able to enjoy the company of one another, outside the normal day-to-day environment which they are accustomed to.

“It isn’t work, it is not stress, it is camaraderie,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Gery Thesing of Task Force 34 “Instead of just working together, we are able to have fun together.”

“[The Halloween party] was definitely a morale booster, it is great to be here and it gives you a little taste of being home,” said Cpl. Gardner.

As the night wrapped up, the many of the Soldiers who participated and even onlookers viewed the night as super spooky and successful.

“It does show that even though the Soldiers are far away from home, the holidays still are important for them,” said Sgt. Mitre. “This is kind of another family for us, even though we are away from our kids, our spouses, we can still find things to entertain us and make it the holidays here.”

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/126905.jpg
Soldier partiatipates in Halloween trivia at the Headquarters and Headquarters Company 34th Combat Aviation Brigade's Halloween party at Joint Base Balad, Iraq on Oct. 31, 2008.


http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26039

BOO!!! :eek: ..... ;)

[Loyal American]

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Medical Team Fits Child for Wheelchair

11.07.2008 at 02:19PM

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BAGHDAD – The 926th Engineer Brigade’s medical and chaplain sections planned and organized a pediatric wheelchair adjustment, Oct. 28, 2008, for Ahmed Kadhem, a four-year-old boy and resident of Sadr City Sector 4. Ahmed Kadhem has been crippled since birth.

Brad Blauser linked up with Lt. Col. Carlton Fisher, chaplain, 926th Engineer Brigade and Maj. Victor Estes, the brigade’s medical operations officer, to start phase one of the Sadr City pediatric wheelchair donation. Brad Blauser of ‘Wheel Chairs for Kids’ have given many children throughout Iraq pediatric wheelchairs. During this phase, Estes brought in Capt. Scot Tebo, surgeon, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, to assist in the wheelchair fitting and coordinate with Nadam N., a member of the Sadr City Health Committee.

Every child that receives a wheelchair must be properly fitted before they can leave. Ahmed’s wheelchair was fitted by Blauser and a medical team from the 926th Eng. and 3rd BCT. The team received a lot of assistance from Nadam N.

“Nadam searched out and identified Ahmed, then coordinated to get the child to the DAC Hall with his parents,” Estes said.

The second phase of the Wheelchair donation will be next month. Brad Blauser will bring in more than 100 wheelchairs for handicapped children in Baghdad.

“I love healing and reconciliation,” Fisher said. “This project provides help to children who cannot walk. The project also engenders peace making. If we want to win the war against terrorism and promote a free republic in Iraq, peacemaking is the answer.”

http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26060

OH SO SWEET, THANK YOU, TROOPS!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-9.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-9.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-9.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-9.gif

[Loyal American]

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Ten Militants Killed, Thirteen Detain in Nangarhar and Khost
11.08.2008 at 09:00AM
KABUL, Afghanistan – Coalition forces killed ten armed militants and detained thirteen militants during multiple operations aimed at disrupting the Taliban and Haqqani terrorist networks in Nangarhar and Khost provinces, Friday.

In Acheen, a regional Taliban commander was the target of a coalition forces operation which resulted in six armed militants being killed and ten suspected militants being detained. Intelligence suggest the commander is responsible for coordinating and directing improvised explosive device, suicide, and other attacks against innocent civilians, GIRoA and coalition forces in an effort to destabilize the region.

As the force approached the compound, multiple groups of armed militants exited the buildings and attempted to maneuver on the force. One group took up fighting positions on a ridgeline and engaged the force with small-arms fire. Coalition forces engaged two groups of armed militants with precision, close-air support. Other groups of militants were not engaged by coalition forces in an effort to protect potentially innocent civilians who may have been amongst them.

A search of the compound revealed rocket-propelled grenades, AK-47s and other military style equipment. Twelve women and forty children were protected by the force during the operation.

In Spera District, coalition forces killed one militant and detained two while targeting a Haqqani militant, believed to coordinate and direct attacks against the government of Afghanistan and coalition forces in Khost.

During the operation the force came under direct fire from militant inside the compound. Coalition forces attempted to neutralize the threat by returning small-arms fire. Unable to do so and still under fire from the militants, the force used close-air support to protect the force. One armed militant was killed and one was wounded as a result of the strike. The wounded militant was treated by coalition and will continue to be provided health care while being detained. A third suspected militant was detained without issue.

In Sabari District, coalition forces targeted a known Haqqani associate who supports and assists with the movement of foreign fighters into the region. He is also suspected of facilitating IED attacks in the region.

As the force approached targeted militants, the militants failed to follow the directions from the force and displayed hostile intent. Realizing the threat, the force engaged the militants with small-arms fire killing three armed militants. One suspected militant complied with the force’s instructions and was detained without incident. http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26090

23 DIRTBAGS OUT OF COMMISSION, COMPLIMENTS OF CF! :clap:

OUTSTANDING JOB, TROOPS!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-9.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-9.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-9.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-9.gif

[Loyal American]

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/thththththth02paper-28-1-9.gif
Joint International Security Assistance Force and Afghan National Army Operation Disrupts Insurgents in Zhari District
11.08.2008 at 09:28AM

KABUL, Afghanistan — A joint International Security Assistance Force and Afghan operation aimed at disrupting an insurgent cell responsible for planting improvised explosive devices and staging ambushes against ISAF and Afghan forces was successfully completed, Oct. 27, 2008, in the Zhari District.

The two-day operation, known as Operation ARTASH was launched in the area around Howz-e-Medad. ISAF and Afghan national army troops worked hand-in-hand, with the support of other coalition assets, to seize several compounds that were suspected to be used by insurgents as a staging ground for their activities.

Under cover of darkness, Canadian armoured vehicles from Mike Company began blazing a trail into the location while ANA and ISAF soldiers from November Company and the Operational Mentoring Liaison Team discretely approached from a different direction. At first light the ANA and ISAF soldiers seized the compounds without resistance and called upon military working dog teams and engineers to clear the compounds for any potential threats. Many items commonly used to make IED's, small arms ammunition, medical supplies as well as a small quantity of uniforms and cash were discovered in the area.

Maj. Rob McBride, the officer Commanding November Company explained, "The success of this operation is two-fold. Not only have we disrupted a specific group of insurgents responsible for making IEDs, we have also proven once again that we are able to work effectively side-by-side with the ANA to assert our presence in this area and deny the insurgents the freedom to carry out their activities."

Later that morning, Afghan and ISAF soldiers came under fire from several insurgents who had moved into the area. The exchange of gunfire, however, lasted only a few minutes. "I think the insurgents were surprised to see such a powerful response from our presence on the ground," said Maj. McBride. "That also goes a long way to reminding them that we will continue to conduct deliberate operations alongside the Afghan national security forces against any insurgents who are a threat to ISAF, the ANSF and the people of Afghanistan." http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26093

GOOD GUYS DISRUBTING DIRTBAG ACTIVITES, AGAIN! ;)

CARRY ON !!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-9.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-9.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-9.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-9.gif

[Loyal American]

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Suspected Insurgent Leaders Arrested in Uruzgan
11.08.2008 at 09:19AM
KABUL, Afghanistan – International Security Assistance Force forces arrested Haji Mullah Shahabudin and two of his sons, Andalib and Ishadullah in their compound near Kalah Kalah, close to Chora in Uruzgan province.

Haji Mullah Shahabudin is known as a ‘judge and cleric’ insurgent and was still acting as a judge for the insurgents. He is suspected of offering material support to his sons, and of undermining the legal authority of the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

His son Ishadullah, also known as Mullah Rasheed, was previously detained for armed robbery of a bus at a check-point, and was subsequently incarcerated in the Tarin Kowt National Defence Service prison.

Both the arrested sons are suspected of fighting against Afghan national security forces and coalition forces, under command of the third brother, Najibullah, a known insurgent commander in the Chora area. Najibullah fled the scene before ISAF troops were able to apprehend him.

All three detainees have been transferred to Kabul and handed over to the NDS authorities. Currently they remain in NDS custody. http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26091

Afghan National Security Forces, Coalition Forces Kill 2 Militants, Destroy 3 Improvised Explosive Devices in Helmand Province
11.08.2008 at 11:20AM
KABUL, Afghanistan – Afghan national security forces together with coalition forces killed two militants and destroyed three improvised explosive devices during operations Thursday and Friday in Nahr Surkh District, Helmand province.

The combined forces were on a patrol when they identified two militants attempting to detonate an IED along the road. As combined forces drew closer, the two militants attacked the patrol with small-arms fire. ANSF and coalition forces responded with small-arms fire, killing the two militants.

A security sweep of the area near the engagement led to the discovery of three command-detonated IEDs, all of which were safely detonated on site.

No ANSF, coalition forces or civilian casualties have been reported. http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26099

HOOAH!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-9.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-9.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-9.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-9.gif

[Loyal American]

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101st Soldiers Conduct Air Assault in Eastern Afghanistan

11.08.2008 at 10:55AM

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BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan – Soldiers with Headquarters and Headquarters Company and Alpha Company, 101st Division Special Troops Battalion, 101st Airborne Division, conducted an air assault mission in Bamyan province, eastern Afghanistan, Nov. 4, 2008.

It was suspected that a small village in a narrow valley in Bamyan province was facilitating improvised explosive device cells.

Using Chinook helicopters, more than 100 troops air assaulted to the village and searched for IED making materials. After several hours of patrolling they distributed humanitarian assistance.

http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26098

GO IN ABOVE LINK AND SEE THE OTHER PHOTOS! YOU CAN CLICK ON THEM AND THEY WILL COME UP ENLARGED WITH CAPTIONS.

THANK YOU 101ST AIRBORNE, YOU GUYS ROCK!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gif

[Loyal American]

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Afghan National Security Forces, Coalition Help Open Agricultural Center in Paktia Province

.08.2008 at 12:17PM

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KABUL, Afghanistan – Citizens of Dand Patan District, Paktia province Thursday celebrated the opening of the Moqbil Tribal Agricultural and Government Center.

About 50 villagers, including many tribal elders, attended the dedication of the new center. Afghan national security forces and coalition forces who assisted in building the center were also on hand.

The new facility provides farmers with innovative and efficient methods to enhance the production, harvesting and selling of their crops. The center will also propagate the Winter Wheat Seed program which distributes seeds and trains villagers on how to properly plant and grow crops in the harsh Afghan climate.

Under the Winter Wheat Seed program the seed produced by the harvest will be stored at the agricultural center and re-distributed to additional farmers in outlying areas. Eventually all farmers in Dand Patan District will have the opportunity to grow and harvest their own wheat seed.

The center is also intended to stimulate the local economy by encouraging villagers in the area to grow and sell their own food instead of having to pay the higher prices charged by criminal elements.

Village elders said the center is a symbol of how committed their local government and coalition forces are to helping the people of Dand Patan. “The unveiling of this center is a clear indication that the government is listening to the people,” said Dor Akbar, the Moqbil tribal mullah. “The center will also provide a safe haven for the people of Dand Patan to come together to meet and discuss issues which affect them and their families.”

http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26103

PROGRESS!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gif

[Loyal American]

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Coalition forces continue destroying AQI; capture 22 suspects (Tikrit)
Saturday, 08 November 2008
BAGHDAD – During another round of devastating blows to al-Qaeda in Iraq networks, Coalition forces captured 22 suspects Friday and Saturday throughout Iraq.

Coalition forces operating in the vicinity of Tikrit, about 160 km north of Baghdad, targeted terrorist networks in the Tigris River Valley Friday. One man believed to be associated with a local terrorist leader was detained for additional questioning.

Friday in Kirkuk, Coalition forces captured one wanted man believed to have ties with AQI leaders in the region. Four additional suspects were detained during the operation.

About 160 km south of Mosul in the village of Bayji, forces detained three men Friday assessed to have connections to a suspected terrorist associated with the city’s improvised explosive device networks.

AQI foreign terrorist facilitation networks were hit hard again Saturday. A suspected terrorist who reports suggest smuggles foreign terrorists and weapons into Iraq was captured by Coalition forces during an operation outside of Mosul. Two additional suspects were detained for further questioning.

Saturday, Coalition forces continued to pressure AQI car bomb and suicide bomber networks. In Al Yusifiyah, about 35 km southwest of Baghdad, Coalition forces targeted and captured a suspected terrorist believed to be associated with car bomb terrorists. Four additional suspects were detained during the operation.

Forces captured two suspected AQI operatives in Baghdad who are reportedly involved in the city’s suicide bomber operations. Three more suspects were also detained for further questioning. http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23529&Itemid=21

Coalition forces detain 24 suspects, derail al-Qaeda operations throughout Iraq
Friday, 07 November 2008
BAGHDAD – Twenty-four suspected terrorists were detained by Coalition forces Thursday and Friday as they continued operations striking al-Qaeda in Iraq networks throughout the country.

A suspected terrorist who reports suggest is an administrative operative in the Tigris River Valley was captured by Coalition forces Thursday in Tikrit, about 160 km north of Baghdad. The man is also believed to have connections to AQI regional leadership.

Friday in Tikrit, forces captured an alleged terrorist finance administrator and detained a man assessed to be his associate.

Coalition forces in cooperation with Iraqi forces conducted three synchronized operations in Kirkuk Friday targeting AQI leadership and foreign terrorist facilitation networks in the Tamim Province. Two suspected terrorists were captured, and seven additional suspects were detained for further questioning during the series of operations.

About 91 km south of Kirkuk, another Coalition force operation targeted and captured a suspected weapons facilitator for AQI in the Tigris River Valley. Four more suspects were also detained.

Coalition forces continued to degrade terrorist networks in Baghdad Friday, capturing a man who reports suggest is an AQI administrative operative in the city.

Near Tarmiyah Friday, which is about 37 km north of Baghdad, forces detained seven suspects believed to be associates of a long-time terrorist operative in Anbar Province.

Coalition forces continued efforts to disrupt AQI networks in Mosul Friday. There, forces captured a suspected terrorist assessed to have links to international al-Qaeda networks. The man, who is also believed to be a financial administrator, was detained with three additional suspects. http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23522&Itemid=21

AWESOME JOB, TROOPS!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gif

[Loyal American]

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/thththththth02paper-28-1-10.gif
Iraqi Security Forces capture 14 suspected AQI during separate operations in northern Iraq
Saturday, 08 November 2008
BALAD, Iraq –Iraqi Security Forces captured 14 suspected al-Qaeda in Iraq terrorists during three separate operations in northern Iraq Nov. 6.

In Mosul, 2nd Iraqi Army elements captured a suspected improvised explosive device cell leader and three more individuals. The cell is allegedly responsible for manufacturing and emplacing IEDs targeting civilians, Iraqi and Coalition forces.

During a separate operation in Tal Uwaynat in northwest Iraq, 3rd Iraqi Army elements captured five suspected AQI weapons facilitators. The cell members were believed to be supplying weapons to AQI terrorists throughout Ninewah Province.

In the Jedaydah Village of Diyala province, Baqubah Special Weapons and Tactics team captured a suspected AQI cell leader and four cell members. The individuals are believed to be responsible for providing logistical support and safe housing for AQI terrorists in the Bani Sayd area. The cell leader is also believed to be leader of a sniper cell. http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23536&Itemid=128

IA finds rolling cache in Mosul
Saturday, 08 November 2008
MOSUL, Iraq – An Iraqi Army unit received information about a possible vehicle-borne improvised explosive device, but instead discovered a rolling cache containing 14 82 mm mortars, Nov. 6.

The 3rd Battalion, 6th Brigade, 2nd Iraqi Army Division, received a tip about a VBIED that had been parked in the Al Islah Al Zarai neighborhood of Mosul for a couple of days.

After setting up a cordon, the unit investigated the vehicle and determined the vehicle was used to store explosives and weapons and was not a VBIED.

The explosives were removed from the neighborhood without incident.

“Because of information provided by the community, the Iraqi Army was able to find this cache and get the weapons off the streets,” said Maj. Kevin Kugel, Iraqi Security Forces chief, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment. “As people continue to gain confidence in the Iraqi Security Forces and work with them, the security situation will continue to improve.” http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23535&Itemid=128

GREAT JOB, ISF!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gif

[Loyal American]

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Combined Operation Kills Senior Al-Qaeda in Iraq Leader
Saturday, 08 November 2008
BAGHDAD — A senior al-Qaeda in Iraq leader was killed Nov. 6, during a combined cache-clearing operation by Iraqi security forces and a ‘Sons of Iraq’ citizen security group, supported by Coalition forces, military officials reported.

Abu Ghazwan, a key link in the network operations for al-Qaeda in Iraq, was killed during the cache-site raid in the Tarmiyah area, north of Baghdad, officials said.

Coalition officials said Ghazwan commanded numerous terrorist cells in the Taji and Tarmiyah areas, and advised and financed other terrorist cells throughout northern Iraq and was responsible for building and facilitating vehicle bombs in the Baghdad area.

Additionally, officials said, he was responsible for other terrorist groups that recruit and train children and females to conduct suicide attacks against Iraqi and Coalition forces.

Based on tips from local citizens about possible enemy activities and caches at three locations, the combined forces moved to the areas to investigate. They found nothing at the first location and moved on to the second location, where they detained a suspected Ghazwan associate who was wanted on an Iraqi warrant. The patrol also found a cache consisting of various ammunition rounds, knives, gun powder and a small amount of plastic explosives.

The patrol then moved to a house in a third location. An explosion detonated behind it, followed by small-arms fire. The patrol returned fire. Two Sons of Iraq members were wounded in the explosion, officials said.

While searching the area, a Sons of Iraq member found a trail booby-trapped with grenades and an unidentified man hiding in grass. The man showed no movement or response to the patrol's commands, and it was later determined he was Ghazwan and that he was killed by Sons of Iraq and Iraqi Army small-arms fire, officials said.

Coalition forces positively identified Ghazwan, and his body was turned over to the Iraqi Army.

"[The combined force's efforts] show the strategic partnership and commitment to providing a safe and secure environment for the Iraqi people," Army Col. Bill Buckner, a Multi-National Corps - Iraq spokesman, said. "This terrorist and those who work for him have no regard for human lives and don't care about the welfare of Iraq or its people." http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23526&Itemid=128

LWJ HAS A GREAT ENTRY ON THIS, CHECK IT OUT:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/Ghazwan.jpg
Abu Ghazwan. Image is from an Iraqi wanted poster.


Iraqi troops kill senior al Qaeda in Iraq leader
By Bill Roggio
November 7, 2008 6:45 PM

Iraqi troops scored a blow against al Qaeda in Iraq's network during a series of operations in the Tarmiyah region. Iraqi soldiers, backed by the local Sons of Iraq and US troops, killed Abu Ghazwan, a senior al Qaeda in Iraq leader, during a shootout.

Ghazwan was killed after the joint forces were sweeping a region near Tarmiyah that was thought to contain weapons caches and was a location of enemy activity. The Iraqi and US forces were attacked with small arms fire and an land mine as they searched a location. Iraq troops returned fire and later found Ghazwan dead.

Ghazwan, whose real name is Saad Ismael Abdul Salah al Hiyali, was a senior al Qaeda leader in the regions north of Baghdad in Salahadin and northern Baghdad province. He was a direct associate of al Qaeda in Iraq leader Abu Ayyub al Masri.

In 2006 and 2007, Ghazwan led al Qaeda's efforts to take control of Baghdad. He commanded the "northern Baghdad belt," one of four regions surrounding the capital. Al Qaeda used these belts to control access to Baghdad and funnel money, weapons, car bombs, and fighters into the city. Al Qaeda also attempted to strangle the US helicopter air lanes by emplacing anti-aircraft cells along known routes.

The US military learned of al Qaeda's plans for Baghdad's belts (http://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2007/06/the_battle_of_the_be.php) after finding a crude map on the body of Abu Musab al Zarqawi, al Qaeda's leader who was killed by US forces in Baqubah in June 2006.

CLICK on map to read the rest:


http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/baghdad-belts-thumb.jpg (http://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2008/11/iraqi_troops_kill_se.php)

The map of the Baghdad belts, found by US forces on Abu Musab al Zarqawi's body in June, 2006.

[AEOakley]

Iraqi, U.S. Communities Sign Pact for Longterm Partnership

Story by Staff Sgt. Matthew Meadows
Posted on 11.08.2008 at 11:31AM

By Staff Sgt. Matt Meadows
4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division

FORWARD OPERATING BASE LOYALTY, Iraq – Karadah District local leaders and government officials of an Iowa town came together in partnership, Oct. 28, 2008, creating a relationship that could bind their communities for years to come.

Members of the Karadah District council, with Dr. Mohammed Al-Rubeiy leading them, met via video teleconference with Mayor Tom Hanafan and other Council Bluffs, Iowa, city officials to sign an “Agreement of Friendship.”

"It's good to be exchanging culture and ideas between the district councils,” expressed Al Rubeiy. “We pray from the bottom of our hearts to keep this friendship between our countries."

“We believe the cooperation from this agreement will make the city of Council Bluffs and the District of Karadah stronger," said Hanafan in the local newspaper.

The idea of linking the communities as sister cities was the brainchild of Lt. Col. Rick Burns, an Army Reserve civil affairs officer assigned to 418th Civil Affairs Battalion, who recently redeployed to Iowa after being attached to 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light). The agreement was a product Burns’ hard work to establish a partnership between Karadah, where he worked with local leaders, and a city or a town in the United States, explained, Conrad Tribble, team leader for Baghdad 2 embedded Provincial Reconstruction Team.

Such a partnership could form a foundation for work and cooperation “that would last beyond his tenure in Iraq, a tenure he was very committed to,” explained Tribble. This friendship could reach “beyond our tenure here … something Iraqis and Americans, at a sort of people-to-people level, could build on over the next several years.”

Tribble said Burns spent a lot of time and energy to develop support for the partnership in Council Bluffs, Iowa, which already had an established sister-city program. Council Bluffs, Iowa, citizens are open-minded and immediately supported the union, so Tribble helped put together the signing event via VTC, which he referred to as a launching of the partnership between the two areas.

A lot of work went into getting to this point, and now everyone concerned is looking toward how to build on it in the future. Tribble said, Karadah is one of the most secure and stable districts in eastern Baghdad that “has really come back to life in the past couple of years as a commercial district. When you drive down the streets, shops are open; they are selling like crazy. There is a real economy going on there.”

Al-Rubeiy and the rest of the district council members are looking for support to continue building and progressing Karadah into an even greater commercial and business center within Baghdad. They are hoping the partnership with Council Bluff, Iowa, will aid them with these efforts through links and investments from international companies and stimulation of economic growth in Karadah, explained Tribble.

To assist Karadah representatives achieve these goals, the e-PRT plans to help send a delegation from Karadah to Council Bluffs, Iowa, next spring, said Tribble. The delegation will include two or three council members, two or three business representatives, several educational institution leaders, probably a couple non-government organization leaders; and municipality representative such as Public Works Department officials, he said.

The plan is for Karadah delegates to meet with their corresponding institution representative from Council Bluffs and surrounding area to see how they accomplish their tasks and goals.

“This will establish partnerships that will form the basis for future cooperation beyond the trip and [allow them to] have a look into how Americans in the middle of America organize themselves on things like business associations or universities and their linkages to the economy or how the public works department handles daily activies,” commented Tribble. “The learning experience and the exposure Karadah representatives will get, they will bring back here to hopefully use to improve their situation.

Tribble said, Council Bluffs residents would benefit from the partnership too. He wholeheartedly agreed with Hanafan, who said the relationship with the people of Karadah gives Council Bluffs citizens “a real concrete connection to Iraq … and it gives them a real connection to people in Iraq and personalizes the people verses what they see in the newspapers.”

Tribble relayed that the Hanafan wanted local citizens to understand there are real people in Iraq who are doing good things for their country and are working with the United States. Tribble explained that, based on his time spent in other countries, “the people-to-people connections with Karadah delegates would give Council Bluff citizens enormous satisfaction and bring to them the realization that they are helping contribute to stabilizing and strengthening a county that has become very important to the United States.”

The relationship between the Baghdad 2 e-PRT and civil affairs is a seamless one, explained Tribble. Burns’ idea of linking Karadah representatives with connections he has in Iowa fit with the e-PRT programs of developing and promoting local business and economic growth, he said.

The Agreement of Friendship and the partnership it formed is a winning proposition for everybody involved, expressed Tribble. It makes sense from the brigade, civil affairs and e-PRT perspectives and is something they can all feel good about putting together in cooperation, he said.

“Americans read about the security issue in Iraq all the time. When you think Iraq, you think security. Whether it’s good or it’s bad, it’s surge, it’s bombing, it’s improvements in security – that is the issue,” said Tribble. “My deal is that this stuff – building up people-to-people relationships and developing contacts among non-governmental organizations and business leaders and colleges and universities; that is the stuff real progress is made of, that is the stuff that all the security is meant to enable.”

“And so, developing this sort of program is why we are here in the first place, once we get past that security issue,” continued Tribble. “This is the stuff that will last beyond us. This is stuff that will make the relationship solid and will help build the stability in Iraq that will enable us to withdraw troops and … leave in good shape.”

:clap::flag::clap:

http://www.dvidshub.net/?script=news/news_show.php&id=26101

[AEOakley]

Troop Medical Clinic Saving Children at Camp Phoenix:

Package about a military clinic providing emergency care to local Afghans. Produced by Staff Sgt. Michael McCool.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HNUcexuYR2I

Thank you, troops, for all the great work! Keep it up! :flag:

[Loyal American]

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Iraqi Students Receive Backpacks and More

11.09.2008 at 08:25AM

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BAGHDAD – Youngsters cry out with their hands in the air trying to get the teachers attention. One is selected and he marches up to the blackboard to recite the day’s lesson written there. When he finishes, the teacher praises him and he returns to his desk, a grin on his face.

School is back in session here in Sadr City, and the students couldn’t be happier.

Multi-National Division – Baghdad soldiers visited an elementary school, Nov. 3, 2008, in the Sadr City District of Baghdad to see its progress and distribute backpacks, school supplies and food to students in need.

Within the past six months, the schools of Sadr City have seen a complete renovation in preparation for school this fall. Walls were rebuilt and painted, windows replaced, electrical lines installed and clean water piped in. Teachers, most of whom are female, have been hired by the Government of Iraq to teach full time.

Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 6th Infantry Regiment, 1st Armor Division, were invited by members of the Iraqi government to see the schools at work. Classes are held in the morning for boys and in the afternoon for girls; both sessions are packed. Every class was filled with thirty to forty 1st, 2nd or 3rd graders. Lessons focus on the fundamentals: reading and writing Arabic, math and memorizing the Koran.

This is one of fifteen schools in the area where Task Force 1-6 operates. The Soldiers, who are currently attached to 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, are glad to see that their hard work in making this part of Sadr City safe has paid off.

“It felt great, seeing the smile on the kids faces and giving them something they needed,” said Staff Sgt. Robert Gray, a Soldier from Task Force 1-6, who is a native of Homer, La. “It made me feel really good.”

Many of the students are orphans, their parents killed by insurgents trying to gain power through intimidation. The schools themselves used to be unusable; insurgents chased the teachers out and used the schools as places of torture, for weapons storage and as a place to hide.

During the time they spent at the school, TF 1-6 Soldiers passed out backpacks, school supplies and food to students in need. The principal selected 30 students with the greatest needs to receive a brand new backpack with pencils, pens and a notebook and pencil case.

The Soldiers also passed out bags of food and water to the children to take home to their families. Sgt. Mario Braxton, a TF 1-6 Soldier, who is a native of Denver, was especially proud of his work at the school.

“Being an orphan myself, it feels good to give back and show the kindness that was shown to me,” Braxton said.

http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26113

GOD BLESS AND THANK YOU, TROOPS!!!:hug::hug::hug:

[Loyal American]

Report: US aircraft strike in Pakistan's Khyber agency

By Bill Roggio
November 9, 2008 11:41 AM

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Pakistani Taliban spokesman, Mullah Omar

US fighters and artillery batteries struck inside Pakistan's Khyber tribal agency, according to reports from the region. Seven people were reported killed and three were wounded in the strikes.

The strikes occurred after Taliban fighters attacked Afghan forces along the border between Pakistan and Afghanistan, Zee News reported (http://www.zeenews.com/southasia/2008-11-09/482153news.html). US forces targeted the Taliban force as they crossed the border into the Tirah Valley in Khyber agency.

The Tirah Valley is home to the Lashkar-i-Islam, an extremist group that is run by Mangal Bagh. The Lashkar-i-Islam has been battling for control of the valley with the rival Ansarul Islam.

Bagh claims he does not support Baitullah Mehsud's Taliban, nor does he oppose the Pakistani state. But he has carved out a Taliban-like state in Khyber, despite a military operation last year that was designed to relieve pressure on neighboring Peshawar.

The US military has chased and attacked Taliban forces while in "hot pursuit" across the border in to Pakistan several times since 2001. The US and Pakistan have agreed to a set of rules for hot pursuit (http://www.usatoday.com/news/world/2007-08-23-pakistan-engagement_N.htm): US forces must be engaged with the Taliban or al Qaeda as they cross into Pakistan; US forces should not penetrate more than 6 miles into Pakistani territory; and US could enter Pakistan if they have identified the location of Osama bin Laden, Ayman al-Zawahri, or Mullah Omar. Pakistan has denied the agreement exists and the US military refused to comment.

The most controversial incident occurred in the tribal agency of Mohmand in June of 2008.

US forces killed 11 Taliban fighters (http://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2008/06/us_military_clash_on.php) after they attacked US and Afghan troops in Kunar province. The Taliban fighters fled into Mohmand, and US forces struck with artillery and aircraft.

Pakistan claimed the 11 men killed were members of the Frontier Corps, the paramilitary security force that is raised from the tribal areas. But members of the Frontier Corps often fight alongside the Taliban to attack US forces in Afghanistan.

http://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2008/11/report_us_aircraft_s.php

Find related articles: Afghanistan (http://www.longwarjournal.org/fastsearch?tag=Afghanistan), Pakistan (http://www.longwarjournal.org/fastsearch?tag=Pakistan)

[Loyal American]

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1000+ Sons of Iraq Complete 1st Week of Iraqi Police Training

11.09.2008 at 01:07PM

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http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/127172.jpg

BAGHDAD – More than 1,000 Sons of Iraq, Iraqi police recruits, completed their first week of IP training at the al Furat Iraqi Police Training Center.

To kick off the program, 608 SoI registered for training at the al Furat Iraqi Police Training Center, Oct. 31, 2008. Now with the first week of training completed, 1,031 SoI are integrated into the IP training program. The second phase of training began, Nov. 3, 2008, with the inclusion of 19 female recruits preparing themselves to be future Shurta.

“We have seen a great abundance of pride from the former Sons of Iraq and now IP recruits,” said Staff Sgt. Jacque Hayes, non-commissioned officer in charge, IP training center, who facilitates the training program with Iraqi police.

“I am impressed with the willingness of the recruits to learn and train as they train to become future Shurta,” added Hayes, a native of Louisville, Ky., who serves with the 233rd Military Police Company, 18th Military Police Brigade, Multi-National Division – Baghdad.

The SoIs will continue to train for the next three weeks as they take on the challenge to become certified police.

CLICK on photo to read more:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/127173.jpg (http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26120)

AWESOME!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gif

[Loyal American]

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Coalition forces degrade AQI Baghdad bombing cells, detain 11 suspects
Monday, 10 November 2008
BAGHDAD – Coalition forces continued to dismantle al-Qaeda in Iraq’s Baghdad car bomb networks Monday, capturing two wanted men and detaining nine additional suspects.

A wanted man assessed to be an AQI car bomb operative was captured by Coalition forces early Monday in Baghdad’s Karkh neighborhood. Reports suggest the suspected terrorist was directly involved in the planning and execution of an October 12 car bomb attack on a Rasheed neighborhood market. The blast killed five Iraqi civilians and injured 12 others.

In a search of the residence where the man was captured, forces discovered multiple detonators and blasting caps used in constructing car bombs. Seven additional suspects were detained for further questioning.

During a separate operation in Baghdad’s Mansour neighborhood, Coalition forces captured a suspected terrorist believed to be affiliated with the city’s AQI car-bomb network. Reports suggest the wanted man has connections to an alleged car-bomb facilitator who was captured during a November 8 Coalition force operation.

Two additional suspects were also detained during this operation for further questioning. http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23557&Itemid=21

Coalition forces disrupt terrorist networks, detain four suspects
Monday, 10 November 2008
BAGHDAD – Four suspects were detained by Coalition forces during operations targeting terrorist networks in Iraq Sunday and Monday.

Coalition forces continued to pressure AQI networks in the Mosul area Sunday. There, forces captured a wanted man believed to be an AQI foreign terrorist facilitator and weapons smuggler.

A second wanted man believed to be a terrorist operative in central Iraq was captured Monday by forces operating in Mahmudiyah, about 25 km south of Baghdad. One additional suspect believed an associate of the wanted man was also detained for further questioning.

In Tuz Khurmatu, about 70 km southeast of Kirkuk, an operation targeting AQI regional leadership netted one suspect. http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23558&Itemid=21

OUTSTANDING!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gif

[Loyal American]

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/thththththth02paper-28-1-10.gif
Sab Al Bour Residents ‘see Light at End of Tunnel’

11.10.2008 at 06:22AM

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CAMP TAJI, Iraq – Only a year ago, reliable electricity in Sab al Bour was just a dream.

The city, just north of Baghdad along the Grand Canal, was practically deserted, with only diehard residents and pockets of insurgents sticking around in the dark.

As of Nov. 8, 2008, residents in this small agricultural city are literally seeing the light at the end of the tunnel, according to sheik Nadeem Hatem al Tamimi, an influential leader in the area. Outside the city’s new electrical substation, the sheik spoke literally and metaphorically about the town’s emergence from darkness.

“We had evil forces trying to kill Iraqis … and they destroyed all essential services,” he said, describing insurgent attempts to control the city and population. “Today, we are calling for unity between all people of Iraq.”

The top coalition forces leader in the Taji area said he believes peace and stability starts with electricity and was at the event to congratulate Sab al Bour on its achievement.

“Reliable and sustainable access to power allows businesses to flourish, water to crops, schools to educate our children and light on the dark nights of the Iraqi winter” said Col. Todd McCaffrey, commander of 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat “Warrior,” 25th Infantry Division, Multi-National Division – Baghdad. “Sab al Bour is now postured to accept the return of its rightful residents.”

Attendees marked the substation’s opening with a ribbon-cutting, tour and then singing and dancing. As they celebrated their victory and announced the lights were on to stay, they proclaimed they could move on to other goals.

“Now we will ask for other things – forgiveness and unity,” said the last speaker at the event. “Let’s now bring together all Sunni and Shia in Iraq.”

CLICK on photo to read full story:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/127308.jpg (http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26143)

GOOD LUCK SAB AL BOUR!!!
SING, DANCE AND BE HAPPY, WITH LIGHTS ON!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gif

[Loyal American]

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Long Knives, Romanians Detour Criminals Outside Nasiriyah

11.10.2008 at 05:50AM

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CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE ADDER, Iraq – Surveying the landscape for criminals in the outskirts of Nasiriyah is a team effort for the Long Knife Brigade and its Romanian White Shark Battalion partners.

A small team of 4th Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division forward observers went to the Iraqi city with Romanian artillery troops from the 341st Infantry Battalion to view the local citizens and their activities Nov. 4, 2008.

The group travelled down long highways before leaving the main roadways for dirt roads running through small villages. The combined forces found an opening in the desert where they could easily maintain proper security.

“[At this location] we can see all around us,” said Romanian Lt. Col. Vasile Vreme, commander of the 341st Infantry Bn., stationed at Contingency Operating Base Adder. “I think this is a good place.”

Just after nightfall, two artillerymen from the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, set up their equipment and observed Iraqi citizens during normal evening activities.

The Long Knife artillery team of Sgt. Will Daniels and Pfc. Justin Dreyer brought a night vision device that provided the ability to easily see hundreds of meters away.

When the first illumination artillery rounds were launched from COB Adder, the sky lit up, as if the sun was beginning to rise, and the team noticed a vehicle with a handful of suspicious-looking men.

“I wanted to get a better look at those guys to see exactly what they were doing,” said Daniels, a forward observer in the Long Knife Brigade’s combat observation and lasing team. “I have to be sure of what they’re doing so I can send back an accurate report.”

The illumination rounds did their job of detouring criminal actions and improving visibility, as the suspicious group fled the scene.

The group observed a second volley of illumination rounds just in time for Daniels to confirm whether the group was preparing to do harm or if they were only on a routine trip outside of town.

The joint Romanian and American artillery teams spent the night observing the area and building esprit de corps to improve their relationship as coalition partners.

http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26141

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gif

[Loyal American]

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1,330 Families Return to Baghdad Area

11.10.2008 at 06:57AM

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Iraqi officials recently announced 1,330 Iraqi families have returned to the three districts in 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division’s operational environment since being displaced due to violence.

The Ministry of Migration and Displaced Persons tracks the return of the citizens on a week-to-week basis. They released the figures, which reflect the number of families who have registered with the ministry since returning to their homes.

To reclaim their houses, these families must provide documentation to the ministry to prove the homes belong to them. Displaced families who register with the ministry are eligible for support from the government of Iraq. Families may receive grants for as much as one million dinar and also may use the money however they deem necessary. While not specifically created to assist displaced persons, the civil services district program is available to them for assistance in securing employment.

An increase in security and stability is primarily responsible for fostering an environment that permits displaced persons to safely return without fear of reprisals from extremist and militant criminals.

“We welcome these good citizens as they return to their homes in eastern Baghdad,” said Maj. Joey Sullinger, a spokesperson for 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light), Multi-National Division – Baghdad. “We hope they fully embrace the Iraqi security forces responsible for the safety and security that allowed these residents to return to their neighborhoods.”

http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26144

FANTASTIC PROGRESS!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gif

[Loyal American]

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Afghan National Army Hosts First Command Post Exercise

11.10.2008 at 04:38AM

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KABUL, Afghanistan – After six months of planning, Afghan national army officials, in conjunction with Combined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan and International Security, put into action their combined efforts for the ANA’s first six-day command post exercise at the Ministry of Defense compound in Kabul, beginning Nov. 1, 2008.

According to U.S. Army Maj. Paul Berquist, a strategic planner from CSTC-A’s planning directorate, every good army conducts a CPX to improve their operational capabilities.

“The real positive outcome of this CPX was that the Afghans came to the realization of how each of their individual efforts complemented each other,” said Berquist.

Staging various tactical scenarios for ANA officials enabled various components such as the medical, logistics and personnel departments to work closely together in a tight, fast-paced work environment.

Berquist said one aspect emphasized during this CPX was the inclusion of counter-insurgency training, humanitarian assistance, information operations and coordinating with the Afghan national police.

“One of our expectations of this CPX is the scenarios used will lead the Afghans to use what they learned in their day-to-day operations,” he said. “The next CPX will be conducted in six months.”

According to CSTC-A’s commanding general, Maj. Gen. Robert Cone, the ANA is a growing force. Current kandak (battalion) numbers are at 67,000 soldiers, up 26,000 from last year. However, these numbers will increase to 134,000 by 2010. In this past year, the Afghan security forces have assumed a leading role in the protection of their homeland, with 62 percent of the fighting against insurgents being led by the ANA with coalition forces acting in a supporting capacity.

During his closing remarks at the CPX, Cone told the participating members of the CPX that their work had shown great promise.

“I am tremendously impressed by the Afghan national army’s ability to undertake this complicated command post exercise. It has been truly impressive in every respect,” Cone said.

“The ANA’s abilities are growing and will make a tremendous impact on the Afghan people. In my heart I know the Afghan soldiers will fight and do magnificently.”

http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26137

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gif..........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gif..........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gif.........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gif.........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gif

[Loyal American]

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Khalidyah Safer After Capture of Terrorist Suspect

11.10.2008 at 12:45PM

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KHALIDYAH, Iraq – Marines with Company C, Task Force 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 1, conducted a cordon and search operation recently, which led to the detainment of the battalion’s number one high value individual.

Muhammad Ayid Fayyad is suspected of being involved with individuals who planned and executed attacks against coalition and Iraqi security forces.

The company learned Fayyad was in the vicinity of a local barbershop in Khalidyah and quickly responded by establishing a cordon around the area.

Marines with 4th Platoon, Company C, set up blocking positions on the main roads leading in and out of the cordon where the company’s Personal Security Detachment provided security for the closed off area.

Lance Cpl. Chelsey Wilson, a 24-year-old assaultman from Pensacola, Fla., was a vehicle commander in 2nd Platoon, which was responsible for the assault and search of the area.
Wilson said as he and two other Marines patrolled near the barbershop they began to notice suspicious behavior.

“There were four men cutting hair inside the shop at the time,” Wilson recalled. “Some of them tried to leave when they saw us, but we held them in the shop.”

The Marines realized one of the four men in the shop was indeed Fayyad after questioning the men and then took him into custody.

Sgt. Keith Fuqua, a 25-year-old squad leader from Milton, Fla., said it was no surprise Fayyad did not resist being detained.

“The operation was successful due to the precision in which it was executed,” Fuqua said. “Every element came together and we got this guy off the streets. The Iraqis are safer.”

Fayyad was immediately taken to the battalion’s detainee collection point for questioning, and then was transported to a higher command for follow-on questioning.

The operation was successfully completed with no casualties to Marines, local nationals or Fayyad.

http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26163

HOORAH, SWEET JOB!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gif

AND HAPPY BIRTHDAY
USMC!!!:flag::flag::flag:

[Loyal American]

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Al Hillah, Iraq — How do you measure success?

Monday, 10 November 2008

Regarding the $7 million newly-renovated Al Hillah Maternity and Children’s Hospital, located in Babil Province, it’s more than bricks and mortar — it’s all about saving lives,” said U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Construction Representative Edward Jones.

Like many USACE military, civilian and contract employees serving in Iraq, Jones will soon return home knowing his efforts directly benefitted thousands of Iraqi families.

“There are many stories that I will take away from this project but there is one that will stay with me forever,” Jones said. “On our final site visit to the hospital, I saw a father hurrying in, carrying his small son. The boy appeared to be unconscious and the man was very upset.”

Although worried about the child, Jones said this event gave him an unexpected understanding and closure to the project. “I was concerned for the child but confident that he was going to receive the quality care that could make all the difference. This scene may have played itself out hundreds of times over the four-year span of this project, but for me it was a first, and that image is a memory I’ll keep forever.”

The rehabilitation included new nurses’ stations, doctors’ offices, an operating room, patient rooms, kitchen and cafeteria. “From a construction standpoint, the facility received a face lift that includes new lighting, ceramic tile, ceilings, flooring, paint and more.

Upgrades were also made to the mechanical, communications and electrical systems, including the installation of new oxygen generators, a heating/cooling system, two 1000kVA generators, a reverse osmosis water purifier, and a medical waste incinerator. A new electrical synchronization switch gear allows multiple generators to operate together meeting load requirements of the facility,” Jones said.

“The list of hospital improvements is impressive. But the success of this project, as I see it, is measured by the people this facility helped during its renovation. This is a maternity and children’s hospital. Its name says it all. Iraqi families found quality professional medical care when they needed it, and that’s why this project touches your heart,” Jones continued. “To my knowledge this facility never closed its doors at anytime during the renovation. Considering the hospital sees an average of 500 people daily, with 300 requiring an overnight stay, keeping those doors open was vital to the well being of the entire community.”

Throughout Iraq, USACE has renovated 40 hospitals and an additional 13 are ongoing.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23567&Itemid=128

USACE ROCKS, AWESOME JOB!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gif

[Loyal American]

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U.S. won’t replace Marines leaving Anbar

By Jeff Schogol (jeffrey.schogol@stripes.osd.mil), Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition, Tuesday, November 11, 2008

ARLINGTON, Va. — About 800 Marines with the 2nd Battalion 2nd Marines will not be replaced when they leave Anbar province next week, Marine Corps officials said Monday.

The move comes as the number of U.S. troops in western Iraq is expected to drop to 26,000 by the first week of December, said Maj. Gen. Martin Post, deputy commanding general of U.S. troops in western Iraq. That’s down from 34,000 in February.

Future troop reductions in western Iraq will depend on the upcoming provincial elections and the status of forces agreement now being hashed out by U.S. and Iraqi officials, Post said.

Unlike other U.S. commanders, Post would not characterize recent security gains as fragile.

The Iraqi security forces have progressed to the point where they don’t need U.S. troops to be first responders, and they have taken the lead with some responsibilities, such as manning entry control points around Ramadi and Fallujah, he said.

"Consistently, the Iraqis are going, ‘We have this; you don’t have to get involved,’ " he said.

Anbar province was once the deadliest place for U.S. troops in Iraq, but public opinion turned against al-Qaida in Iraq in 2006 when it killed a local sheikh, outraging Sunnis in the area.

In the ensuing "awakening" movement, U.S. troops and former Sunni insurgents teamed up to push al-Qaida out of Anbar province, allowing Iraqi troops and police to assume responsibility for security in the province in September.

http://www.stripes.com/article.asp?section=104&article=58741

HOORAH!!!:flag:

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[AEOakley]

This edition features stories on how service members who take time to be friendly to Iraqi children. Produced by Petty Officer Andrew Krauss.

:flag::clap::flag:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i140CoHFNQ0

[Loyal American]

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One AQI terrorist killed, 18 captured by Coalition forces
Tuesday, 11 November 2008
BAGHDAD – Coalition forces targeting al-Qaeda in Iraq networks throughout the country killed one terrorist, captured five wanted terrorists and detained 13 additional suspects Monday and Tuesday.

Coalition forces operating in Baghdad on Monday targeted a long-time AQI operative in the city’s Karkh neighborhood. When ground forces moved toward the terrorist to detain him, he brandished a pistol. Coalition forces, acting in self defense, engaged and killed the armed man. It was determined that the armed terrorist was the wanted man.

In Mosul Monday, Coalition forces continued to dismantle the city’s AQI foreign terrorist and weapons facilitation networks. One wanted man believed to smuggle foreign terrorists and weapons in the Jazeera area was captured along with two men believed to be his associates.

Mosul bombing networks were targeted by Coalition forces Tuesday. There, forces operating just outside the city captured a man believed to have connections to an AQI car bomb cell leader.
One additional suspect was detained for further questioning.

Car bomb and improvised explosive device networks were the target of another Coalition force operation Tuesday in as-Sadiyah, about 112 km northeast of Baghdad. Forces captured an individual who, reports suggest, is a major car bomb and IED facilitator in the Diyala Province. After he was detained, the wanted man then led ground forces to a second location where they captured another man believed to be an AQI leader in the region. Two more suspected terrorists were detained during the operation.

Forces in Haditha, about 211 km northwest of Baghdad, captured an individual Tuesday who is believed to be an AQI operative who participated in attacks against Coalition forces and facilitated finances for AQI. The wanted man, who surrendered himself to forces, is assessed to have connections to AQI networks throughout Iraq. Three additional suspects were detained for further questioning.

A related operation in Haditha targeting a suspected AQI car bomb operative netted two suspects.

Coalition forces continued to pressure AQI leadership networks in Tikrit Tuesday, about 160 km north of Baghdad. There, forces detained three suspected terrorists believed to be associated with a local AQI leader. http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23579&Itemid=21

THANK YOU, TROOPS, OUTSTANDING JOB!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gif

[Loyal American]

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Afghan National Security Forces, Coalition Forces Detain Taliban Leader in Khowst Province
11.11.2008 at 06:35AM
BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan – Afghan national security forces and coalition forces detained a Taliban leader in Wurzi, Khowst province Nov. 9, 2008.

ANSF and coalition forces detained Laeek Shah, a Taliban commander, during a patrol without incident.

Credible intelligence suggests the captured leader is a Taliban field commander and is responsible for leading and conducting attacks on ANSF and coalition troops in the area.

No coalition forces or civilian casualties were reported. http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26193

International Security Assistance Force Forces Help an Afghan Child in Helmand
11.11.2008 at 01:28AM
KABUL, Afghanistan — At midday Nov. 10, 2008, a local girl from the vicinity of Nahr-e-Sarraj in Helmand was bought to an International Security Assistance Force base for medical treatment after falling into a fire and suffering serious burns.

When she arrived at the base, she had burns to her face and left arm, and she could not open her eyes.

ISAF troops cooled her burns with cold water and cleaned and dressed her wounds. She was then taken by ISAF helicopter to a larger ISAF hospital for further medical treatment. http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26180

THANK YOU, GREAT JOB!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-10.gif

[Loyal American]

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Coalition forces continue to target Katai’b Hezbollah
Tuesday, 11 November 2008
BAGHDAD – Coalition forces killed an alleged criminal and apprehended two suspected Katai’b Hezbollah members during separate operations Tuesday morning in Baghdad’s Adhamiyah district.

Acting on intelligence information, Coalition forces targeted a key Katai’b Hezbollah leader, believed to be responsible for recent attacks against Iraqi citizens and Iraqi and Coalition forces.

Coalition forces approached the home of the suspected terrorist, and were confronted by an individual in a nearby house. When he approached forces with a hand gun, Coalition forces perceived hostile intent, engaged the man and killed him.

In a separate operation in Adhamiyah, forces apprehended two other suspected criminals without incident.

Katai’b Hezbollah is assessed to be a surrogate of Iran and its members are believed to be responsible for recent attacks against Iraqi citizens and Iraqi and Coalition forces. http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23583&Itemid=21

ISF captures 11 suspected AQI members during separate operations in northern Iraq
Tuesday, 11 November 2008
BALAD, Iraq – Iraqi Security Forces captured 11 suspected al-Qaeda in Iraq terrorists during separate operations in northern Iraq Nov. 8-10.

On Nov. 10 in Sheik Yunis Village, Iraqi Special Operations Forces conducted an air assault operation capturing five suspected AQI cell members. These individuals are believed to be involved in constructing and transporting vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices into the Mosul area.

During a separate operation on Nov. 10, ISOF captured four suspected AQI terrorists in western Mosul. These individuals are allegedly responsible for kidnapping and assassinating local civilians as well as IED attacks against ISF in western Mosul.

On Nov. 8 in Tahrir, Baqubah Special Weapons and Tactics team conducted an operation capturing two suspected AQI cell leaders. These individuals are believed to be IED cell leaders that conducted attacks against Coalition and Iraqi forces in the Baqubah area and Bani Zayd Region.

This series of operations are directed toward thwarting terrorists’ activities as the Government of Iraq demonstrates a determination to bring those operating outside the law to justice. http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23585&Itemid=128

ABSOLUTELY AWESOME!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-22.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-22.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-22.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-22.gif

[Loyal American]

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Troops Become Citizens on Veterans Day in Afghanistan

11.11.2008 at 10:25AM

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BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan, Nov. 11, 2008 – This Veterans Day was like no other for 77 service members who took the oath of allegiance and officially became U.S. citizens while deployed to Bagram Air Field, Afghanistan.

The U.S. Ambassador to the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, William Wood attended the naturalization ceremony as the guest speaker, along with Maj. Gen. Jeffrey Schloesser, commanding general of Combined Joint Task Force-101 and Regional Command-East commander.

“For some of you, it probably seems like it was just yesterday when you raised your right hand and said that you would support and defend the constitution of the United States and serve in the Armed Forces,” said Schloesser. “Today, you are going to raise your hand again and become a citizen of the country of that constitution.”

After Schloesser said a few words, he introduced Wood as the guest speaker for the ceremony.

Wood’s speech recognized the hard work and dedication of the 77 service members who stood in front of him.

“You’ve served with honor, and you’ve served with skill, and you’ve served with dedication to the country that you so proudly make yours today and we so proudly offer to you,” Wood said. “Your decision to defend the freedoms that the United States were founded on stands as a testament to your dedication.”

Wood concluded his speech and introduced Robert Looney, district director from the United States’ Citizenship and Immigration Services, Bangkok District Office, who said a few words to the service members and administered the oath of allegiance.

“In a few moments I’m going to formalize a process that you started many years ago. I consider all of you already to be American citizens; you were American citizens when you put on your uniform. This will formalize that process and give evidence to the decision you have already made,” Looney said. “Raise your right hand and repeat after me.”

After the Oath, each service member received their Certificate of Naturalization by Wood and Schloesser. The new American citizens then lined up to get handshakes and congratulations from their peers.

Spc. Carol Bell was one of them. She is a native of Kingston, Jamaica, who came to America with her family in her early 20s. Now deployed with the 101st Sustainment Brigade, she explained how she felt during ceremony.

“It was emotional for me, especially when they played ‘God Bless the U.S.A.’ When I say the Soldiers’ creed and when I say, I am an American Soldier, after taking my oath, I can say deep down from within, I am an American Soldier,” Bell said. “ So today meant a lot to me.”

http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=51890

CONGRATUATIONS AND THANK YOU!
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[Loyal American]

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Combined Security Transition Command - Afghanistan Service Members Honor Heroes of Wars Past and Present

11.11.2008 at 10:25AM

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KABUL, Afghanistan - For service members at Camp Eggers, Veteran’s Day was a day to commemorate Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines who have fallen in battle, especially their comrades from Combined Security Transition Command - Afghanistan.

The service members gathered before the 24 coalition forces flags to honor veterans who have worn and continue to wear, the uniform of the U.S. military. During the observance led by CSTC-A Commanding General Maj. Gen. Robert W. Cone, two words were emphasized above all others - sacrifice and remembrance.

“Today, we remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. We remember the men and women who laid down their lives for their country for a cause greater than themselves,” Cone said. “We especially remember our Afghan comrades who have laid down their lives fighting for their country. They continue to take the fight to the enemy to ensure the Afghan people no longer live in fear.”

Cone thanked the service members for their service, reminding each that the freedoms we enjoy, as a nation, come with price.

“These veterans who came before you took the same oath to defend our nation,” Cone said. “They have been an extraordinary example to all who have followed, and we thank them for their service to our nation.”

U.S. forces, not alone in the remembrance of their fallen heroes, were joined by British, Canadian and Australian service members who were celebrating Remembrance Day, a day when service members of the British commonwealth wear a red poppy on their uniforms signifying the losses of soldiers in World War I - and wars since.

Brig. Jonathan Watson, commanding general of CSTC-A’s Command Training Advisory Group, said Remembrance Day, like Veteran’s Day, is a day to honor all fallen comrades of war, military and civilian alike, when a two-minute moment of silence is observed throughout his native England.

For both Chief Petty Officer John Tanedo of CSTC-A’s force integrations and training directorate, and Army Master Sgt. Flora McKnight of the operations directorate, each shared common observations of the ceremony.

“For me, it is a good way to remember that we are defending our country,” said Tanedo. “I think it is important we remember those who came before us who gave their all.”

McKnight said Veteran’s Day is a means of honoring others who thought more of freedom than of their own lives.

“I always think of the outstanding sacrifice of those who served before us. It is they who enable me and my family to have the quality of life we have today.”

Following the ceremony, six service members of CSTC-A’s security force from 436 Chemical Company, Texas National Guard in Laredo, stood at attention before Cone, who congratulated them for their decision to become U.S. citizens a day earlier.

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http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26202




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[Loyal American]

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Marines Celebrate 233rd Marine Corps Birthday in Afghanistan

11.12.2008 at 12:38AM

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KANDAHAR AIR FIELD, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Marines and sailors from Combat Logistics Battalion 3, 3rd Marine Regiment and the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit celebrated the 233rd Marine Corps birthday at Kandahar Air Field in the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Nov. 10, 2008.

The Marines, hundreds of which deployed to the region Nov. 5, are part of the Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Afghanistan.

Although the Marines were located in a combat zone and couldn’t attend the Marine Corps birthday ball, the birthday traditions here remained the same.

On the dry, dusty air field, the ceremony began with a troop formation and reading of the birthday message of the 34th Commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen. James T. Conway.

“Your actions, in Iraq and Afghanistan and across the globe, are the core of why America loves her Marines,” the message read.

Conway’s message was followed by that of the 13th Commandant, Gen. John A. Lejeune, which is customary at Marine Corps birthday celebrations.

The ceremony concluded with the traditional cake cutting and recognition of the oldest and youngest Marines present.

Colonel Gary P. Shaw, 52, the oldest Marine, and Lance Cpl. Francisco Martinez, 19, the youngest Marine, were presented the first pieces of the birthday cake.

Shaw, a liaison officer to the KAF Command, said it was an honor to be recognized as the oldest Marine and celebrate the birthday while deployed.

“I liked it. It was definitely the most memorable birthday I have celebrated,” he said. “I’ve spent birthdays deployed but never to a combat zone, so it was definitely memorable.”

Lance Corporal Jerick Austria, an administrative clerk with SPMAGTF-A, said he wouldn’t want to celebrate the birthday anywhere else.

“I would much rather be here than at the ball,” he said. “Marines are trained to be deployed, so us celebrating the birthday here is very meaningful.”

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Marines prepare to present the oldest and youngest Marines in attendance during the 233rd Marine Corps birthday ceremony at Kandahar Air Field on Nov. 10, 2008.

http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26218

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththththAmericanFlag-Animated--13.gif GOD BLESS OUR MARINES!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththththAmericanFlag-Animated--13.gif

[Loyal American]

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Coalition forces strike AQI networks: two terrorists killed, 16 suspects detained
Wednesday, 12 November 2008
BAGHDAD – Coalition forces continued to thwart al-Qaeda in Iraq’s ability to conduct terrorist operations Tuesday and Wednesday, killing two armed terrorists and detaining 16 additional suspects.

Coalition forces dealt multiple blows to AQI leadership networks in Baghdad Tuesday. Two terrorists were killed and five other suspects were detained during an operation targeting one of the city’s terrorist leaders.

When forces arrived at the location where the wanted man was located, they began receiving small arms fire. Coalition forces returned fire in self defense, killing two armed terrorists. It was determined that one of the dead terrorists was the wanted man. A third armed terrorist injured during the operation was treated by forces on scene and taken to a nearby military base for additional care.

A second operation in Baghdad on Tuesday captured another wanted man believed to have ties to AQI leadership. The terrorist, believed to be a long-time member of AQI, identified himself as the wanted man to forces after the operation. One additional suspect was detained for further questioning.

AQI leadership networks were further degraded Wednesday during two operations in the vicinity of Taji, about 25 km north of Baghdad. There, forces detained five suspects believed to have connections to various AQI personalities within the Baghdad network.

Terrorist networks in Tikrit, about 160 km north of Baghdad, were also pressured by Coalition forces Wednesday. One suspect assessed to have connections to AQI regional leadership was detained for further questioning.

Coalition forces continued to disrupt AQI bombing operations throughout the country Wednesday. Near Bayji, about 160 km south of Mosul, forces captured one terrorist connected to a car bomb leader in the Tigris River Valley. The wanted man surrendered himself to ground forces without incident.

In Mosul, a wanted man believed to conspire directly with that city’s IED and car bomb cell leader was captured by Coalition forces.

And in As Sadiyah, about 112 km northeast of Baghdad, forces captured a wanted man Wednesday believed to be associated with a Diyala-based IED facilitator. http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23597&Itemid=128

HOOAH!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-11.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-11.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-11.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-11.gif

[Loyal American]

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Iraqi Government Pays Its ‘Sons’: West Rashid Sons of Iraq Receive First Government of Iraq Paycheck

11.11.2008 at 06:17AM

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A member of the Sons of Iraq in the Rashid District of southern Baghdad receives his first government of Iraq paycheck at Joint Security Station Jihad Nov. 10, 2008. Each SoI was each given their regular salary of the Iraqi Dinar equivalent of $300.

BAGHDAD, Iraq – The Sons of Iraq in the West Rashid District of southern Baghdad received their first government of Iraq paycheck at Joint Security Station Jihad Nov. 10, 2008.

This is the first large-scale SoI payday conducted by the government of Iraq and marks a landmark achievement in the SoI transition from coalition forces control to GoI control.

“Today is really the next critical step in the transfer that began on Oct. 1,” said Lt. Col. Mike Runey, plans officer with 4th Infantry Division and Multi-National Division – Baghdad, about the SoI payday. “Effectively, the transfer has happened. The critical physical piece for the SoI and their perspective is they will continue to receive pay and compensation for the services they’ve rendered to the country. This is why today is such a hallmark day.”

The SoI from the Jihad neighborhood in southern Baghdad lined up outside a small, second-story room on JSS Jihad and were called up to the pay table one by one. After their identities were verified by Iraqi security forces officials and SoI leaders, the individual being paid placed a thumbprint in blue ink next to their names on a master list and were given their money and told to count it to make sure it was all there.

Leading up this payday, there were some concerns among the ranks of the SoI as to whether or not the government would continue to pay them as seamlessly as coalition forces had done in the past.

Faiq Adeeb was one of the SoI who had concerns leading up to the payday. Seeing his peers receiving their money seemed to set mind at ease, he said.

“The fact that the GoI is paying us today makes us feel more comfortable,” he said. “Things will continue to get better.”

Such concerns regarding payment by the government were not universally held by all SoI, however.

“On the contrary,” said Sarmet Abdi Salam, when asked if he was worried that the government would not pay him. “I believed that the Iraqi government would pay us. A lot of people believed that the government would pay us.”

There are over 30 CSDs throughout Baghdad where both men and women can go to receive training in various fields such as general construction, auto repair, telecommunications, clerical and administration, etc. Following a six-month long course, CSD graduates can immediately take those new skills into the community work force. Currently, the Jihad CSD in Rashid is training approximately 400 students with 176 of those being former SoI.

Successes, like the payday of the Jihad SoI in West Rashid, provide the confidence and the strength to keep moving forward.

CLICK on photo to read FULL STORY, see additional pictures/captions:

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Sons of Iraq in the West Rashid District of southern Baghdad received their first government of Iraq paycheck at Joint Security Station Jihad Nov. 10, 2008. After their identification was verified, each SoI put a thumbprint next to their name on the roster signifying that they had received their money.


GREAT PROGRESS!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-11.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-11.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-11.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-11.gif

[Loyal American]

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/xinsrc_1cbea4e76f754cafa9b8b9f25-1.jpg MORE on payday!!! ;)

Comanche Troop Participates in Historic Payday

11.12.2008 at 09:28AM

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PATROL BASE SOUTH, Iraq – The days of Sons of Iraq getting their pay in American dollars are over. That mission now falls on the capable hands of the Iraqi government.

As such, the 53rd Iraqi Army Brigade conducted its first government of Iraq-funded payday operations, Nov. 10, 2008, at Patrol Base South, northwest of Baghdad.

Soldiers from Comanche Troop, 2nd Squadron 14th Cavalry Regiment “Strykehorse,” 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team “Warrior,” 25th Infantry Division, Multi-National Division – Baghdad, along with the 53-14 Military Transition Team, assisted the 53rd Iraqi Army soldiers in processing 506 paychecks.

“The Iraqi army soldiers are pretty squared away,” said Sgt. 1st Class Charles Sproessig, the MiTT Team non-commissioned officer in charge, who is a native of Hanover, Ind. “Today is a huge step for them, and they will celebrate this tonight.”

In October, Comanche Troop Soldiers scoured SoI rosters, verified enrollment cards and identification paperwork, and paid each member $300 for the month’s work. Today their role was slightly less involved.

“We took somewhat of a back seat to [the Iraqi commanders] in that they were in charge,” said Capt. Travis Shain, commander of Troop C, who is a native of Victoria, Texas. He, along with Cpl. Cerone Waddy, a radio telephone operator, who is a native of Richmond, Va., verified each member on the roster. From there, each member proceeded to the pay table to pick up their hard-earned pay.

A lucky group of 30 SoIs received a special visit prior to getting paid as Gen. Qais, the 53rd Iraqi Army Brigade commander, greeted each individual in the atrium prior to addressing them.

“I want to thank you all for what you are doing,” he said. “This is our country. You will not have to worry about employment as we will find a place for you with the Iraqi army or the Iraqi police.”

Iraqi army soldiers, along with Sons of Iraq members, sang and danced to traditional music.

“This is a historic time for the people of Iraq. You’re seeing the fruits of the GoI’s labor. It was extremely complicated and took a lot of hard work and patience,” Shain said. “The fact that the GoI and Iraqi security forces executed this task with such great ease speaks for itself in that they have come a long way.”

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http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26232

YES, A LONG WAY INDEED! MANY SAID THIS WOULD NEVER COME TO BE AND IT'S HAPPENING AND IT'S AWESOME!!!

THANK YOU, TROOPS, YOU HAD A HUGE PART IN BRINGING THIS SUCCESS TO REALITY!!!

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[Loyal American]

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Afghan National Security Forces, Coalition Forces Kill 4 Militants in Badghis Province
11.12.2008 at 11:28AM
KABUL, Afghanistan – Afghan national security forces and coalition forces killed four militants today after being ambushed about three kilometers from a site in Badghis province where a Norwegian Provincial Reconstruction Team was ambushed last week.

The ambush took place as ANSF and coalition forces were en route to a meeting with village leaders in Ghormach District, where they were going to assess the needs of villagers and coordinate humanitarian assistance.

The combined forces were attacked with rocket propelled grenade, small arms and mortar fire. As enemy forces began reinforcing and maneuvering on the patrol, the combined forces fired on the armed militants, killing four.

No ANSF, coalition forces or civilian casualties have been reported.http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26241

GREAT JOB!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-11.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-11.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-11.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-11.gif

[Loyal American]

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MND-B Soldiers detain suspected criminal in Shurta
Wednesday, 12 November 2008
BAGHDAD – Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers arrested a suspected criminal Nov. 11 in the Rashid district of southern Baghdad.

At approximately 1:15 a.m. in the Shurta community, Soldiers from Company C, 4th Battalion, 64th Armor Regiment, attached to the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, MND-B, detained a suspect during a search operation. The patrol transported the detainee to a nearby combat outpost for processing.

“The 1st ‘Raider’ Brigade uses our ability to strike criminals in the still of night where they sleep,” said Maj. Dave Olson, 1st BCT Spokesman, 4th Inf. Div., MND-B. “Our primary goal is to protect the Iraqi people, where they live and work by killing, capturing or driving the criminals away, which keeps the criminals from terrorizing innocent Iraqi citizens and preventing attacks on Coalition and Iraqi Security Forces.” http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23606&Itemid=128

NPs apprehend 66 wanted suspects in Mosul
Wednesday, 12 November 2008
Mosul, Iraq – National Police and Coalition force captured 66 wanted suspects in Mosul Nov. 11.

The National Police had warrants for the suspects and detained them in the south Mosul neighborhood of Abu Sayf.

Other security gains in Ninewa included the successful disabling of a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device in a joint effort between CF and the Iraqi Police in Qayyarah.

“The fact that an operation of this size and scope is conducted with the support of the citizens indicates the people of Mosul are not only confident in their security forces but are themselves dedicated to achieving a secure and prosperous future,” said Maj. Amanda Emmens-Rossi, U.S. Army spokesperson. http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23608&Itemid=21

IA, CF detain 4 suspected terrorists
Wednesday, 12 November 2008
MOSUL, Iraq – Iraqi Army and Coalition forces detained four men during a raid in the Younis Al Sabawi neighborhood Nov. 11. The detainees are all suspected insurgent group members.


During the raid, Soldiers from the 1st Battalion, 7th Brigade, 2nd Iraq Army Division and Company D, 1st Battalion, 8th Infantry Regiment, also found a large amount of Iraqi Dinar and several Iraqi IDs that did not belong to anyone in the house.

“This is just one of many examples of the Iraqi Army’s ability to track down and bring suspected terrorists to justice,” said Capt. Tia Winston, public affairs officer, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment. http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23611&Itemid=21

AWESOME!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-11.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-11.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-11.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-11.gif

[Loyal American]

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Day in the Life of a Military Working Dog Handler

11.12.2008 at 04:37PM

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FORWARD OPERATING BASE LOYALTY, Iraq – Many Soldiers work outside of their military occupational specialties when they deploy to Iraq; but for some who do not, it’s a dog’s life – or something very close to it.

Although a dog’s life is associated with an easy and lazy existence, that’s not the life of a military working dog or the military professionals who handle them. They earn their money each and every day.

“We give them as much down time over here as we possibly can, but still, training has to be conducted because it’s a diminishing skill,” explained Staff Sgt. Robert Moore, a specialized search dog handler and kennel master from Charleston, W.Va. “We try to put them on odors every day so that we can keep them in tune to what they are doing.”

Deployed in support of Multi-National Division – Baghdad’s 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division units at Forward Operating Bases Loyalty and Rustamiyah, Moore said MWDs and their handlers’ schedules vary according to requests from various maneuver units they support. Therefore, keeping the dogs on a regular schedule doesn’t always work out, but he at least tries to feed his dog, Wisky, about the same times every day: once in the morning and once in the evening.

“Everything revolves around what missions need to be done,” commented Moore, who is assigned to 217th Military Police Detachment at Fort Lee, Va., and attached to Multi-National Division – Baghdad’s 4th Infantry Division Provost Marshal Office while deployed to Baghdad. “We are Soldiers just like everybody else. We have to mold [our schedules] around missions the way that everybody else does.”

Read the rest, CLICK on photo:


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THANK YOU AND DON'T FORGET THE DOGGIE TREATS! ;)

[AEOakley]

Package about the partnership between Iraqi security forces and coalition forces and the progress that has been made securing the country. Produced by Staff Sgt. Robert Smith.

:flag::clap::flag:

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

[Loyal American]

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/thththththth02paper-28-1-11.gif I would of loved to have been back in the states to welcome our Guard home!!! :hug:

100 Indiana Guard Soldiers Return to Indianapolis Airport

11.12.2008 at 07:00PM

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INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. - Friends, families, dignitaries and travelers greeted 100 Soldiers of the 76th Infantry Brigade Combat Team as they returned from their deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom on Nov. 12 at the Indianapolis International Airport.

"I’m so glad he’s back on American soil," said Tamara Moore about an hour before her husband, Spc. Rick Moore, arrived with the other Indiana National Guard Soldiers at the Col. H. Weir Cook terminal.

Other Soldiers' family members shared the emotional relief as they waited in anticipation.

"I know I'll be ready to cry when I see him," said Sophia Render about an hour before her brother arrived. Her brother is Spc. Jessie Miller, a force protection specialist with the brigade’s headquarters company.

For many the homecoming was a time of celebration, a time of reflection and a time to look forward and share burdens instead of dealing with them individually.

"It's a big relief just knowing he's back as my sidekick, my partner. I don't have to be a single parent anymore," said Tamara.

Read more and see additional pictures, CLICK on photo:


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WELCOME HOME FELLOW HOOSIERS! WE LOVE YOU AND WE ARE SO PROUD OF YOU!!! THANK YOU!!!

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[Loyal American]

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New York Soldiers Receive Valor Awards at Veterans Day Ceremony

11.12.2008 at 09:02AM

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KABUL, Afghanistan - Two New York Army National Guard Soldiers assigned to Combined Joint Task Force - Phoenix received Bronze Star Medals with Valor during a Veteran's Day ceremony at Camp Phoenix in Kabul on Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2008

Capt. Joseph Merrill from Binghamton, commander of the Ithaca-NY based Company D, 2nd Battalion 108th Infantry and 1st Sgt. James Meltz from Cropseyville, N.Y. also assigned to Company D wee honored for combat actions on May 25-26. The unit was providing security for a long range convoy from Kabul to Kandahar when it was ambushed. Both leaders were credited for “direct actions that lead to the repulsion of enemy forces without the injury or death to US forces.”

“Veterans are people who know the true meaning of courage and what it really takes to keep a nation free and strong,” said Col. Brian K. Balfe, commander of CJTF-Phoenix VII and NY’s 27th Infantry Brigade Combat Team during his remarks. “And yet compassion is also a part of their legacy,” he added.

Both Capt. Merrill and 1st Sgt. Meltz previously served in Iraq with other NY units. In Afghanistan they often provided security and support for humanitarian outreach efforts and civil medical assistance operations.

“This is an honor,” said Merrill who was surprised to receive the award. “That first night was a three hour fight,” he said, adding that his men soundly defeated if not completely destroyed the enemy. “The enemy showed up and stuck around,” said Meltz. “They wanted to play,” he added.

“As a company we will complete over 1100 missions before we finish,” said Merrill. “We figured that after those incidents the enemy took note and for the most part then left us alone,” he said. According to him, the enemy deliberately avoided engaging up-armored Humvees from his unit that carried the “phoenix” logo.

CJTF-Phoenix is part of Combined Security Transition Command - Afghanistan with the mission to mentor and train the Afghan national army and police, and provide assistance to the government of Afghanistan and its people. The task force is comprised of nearly 8,700 service men and women from all U.S. branches, coalition partners and civilian professionals distributed at almost 260 Forward Operating Bases and Combat Outposts throughout Afghanistan. Nearly 1700 members of New York’s 27th IBCT were mobilized for the mission. They came from communities across New York.

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http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26230

GOD BLESS AND THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththththAmericanFlag-Animated--13.gif

[Loyal American]

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Leaders Attend Bridge Reopening in Baghdad

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BAGHDAD, Nov. 12, 2008 – Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers of the 1st Infantry Division’s 1st Combined Arms Battalion, 18th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, attended a bridge reopening ceremony in northwestern Baghdad’s Kadhamiyah district yesterday.

The Al Aima Bridge had been closed since 2005 when a deadly stampede caused the deaths of nearly 1,000 Shiite pilgrims.

The reopening was more than just a ribbon-cutting event, said Army Lt. Col. John Vermeesch, the battalion’s commander, who oversaw the ceremony.

“The opening of this bridge is symbolic of the unity in Baghdad,” Vermeesch said. “Opening this bridge also indicates sectarian relations and security have improved due to the hard work of local leaders and coalition forces.”

The ceremony marking the reopening of the bridge was a festive even,t and included an Iraqi army band and a ceremonial sheep sacrifice. Baghdad’s mayor and the major Iraqi army and police commanders of the Karkh district attended.

Before the ceremony, Iraqi police officers and soldiers cleared and secured the bridge.

“Iraqi security forces have played an instrumental role in not only making an event like this possible, but also in helping the bridge reconstruction project run smoothly,” Army Maj. Koné Faulkner of the 2nd Heavy Brigade Combat Team said.

The event went off without incident, and traffic began flowing across the bridge.

“The people were in a celebratory mood, waving Iraqi flags as they drove across the bridge,” Vermeesch said. “This event, along with others scheduled for the future in the Kadhamiyah district of northwest Baghdad, will continue to promote security and good sectarian relations in the area.”

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http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=51911

GRRREAT!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-11.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-11.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-11.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-11.gif

[Loyal American]

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/xinsrc_1cbea4e76f754cafa9b8b9f25-1.jpg .... Third post on SOI payday! :cool:

Raider Soldiers Oversee Hayys Jihad and Furat Sons of Iraq’s First Payday Under Government of Iraq

11.13.2008 at 03:02AM

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FORWARD OPERATING BASE FALCON, Iraq — Soldiers of the 1st Battalion, 22nd Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Multi-National Division – Baghdad, joined their Iraqi counterparts at various locations across western Rashid to assist Iraqi security forces issuing the first payday to the Sons of Iraq Nov. 10-13.

The long-awaited payday activities are a critical step in uniting the Iraqi people for the future of Iraq, said Staff Col. Ali Abood Thamer, commander of the 1st Battalion, 53rd Brigade, 14th Iraqi Army Division.

“What is happening here, in my opinion, is extremely important because we are training them, putting tools in their hands, and what is the most important thing, taking them away from terrorism,” Ali said. “We are going to give them money; we are going to give them jobs; we are going to give them goals for their future lives.”

Ali said that he took responsibility for supervising and paying the more than 1,000 West Rashid SoI in the Hayy Furat and Hayy Jihad communities after the government of Iraq assumed control of the citizens-led security program Oct. 1.

“We are bringing all these people into the IA and the national police,” said Ali. “They are extremely important because we can train them, and they will be our eyes in the muhallahs. They will keep us better informed on the overall situation.”

Read the rest, CLICK on photo:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/128361.jpg (http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26268)
Iraqi security forces across the Rashid district are charged with the responsibility to facilitate the first payments to the registered members of the Sons and Daughters of Iraq program.

I AM SO LOVING THIS AND NOTE THE LAST PIC IS A DAUGHTER OF IRAQ PICKING UP HER VERY FIRST GOVERNMENT PAY CHECK!

OUTSTANDING!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-11.gif

[Loyal American]

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Iraqi Army Discovers Large Weapon Cache

11.12.2008 at 03:03PM

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CAMP STRIKER, Iraq - Iraqi army soldiers discovered a large weapons cache on Nov. 10 near the town of Owesat in the Mahmudiyah Qada, southwest of Baghdad.

The 17th IA Div. soldiers discovered the weapons cache consisting of one 120-mm mortar round, five rocket-propelled grenades, six artillery rounds, 80 license plates, one box of DSHK ammunition, one 82-mm mortar round, 305 improvised explosive devices, 10 kilograms of gun powder, one 60-mm mortar base plate, four 60-mm mortars, 282 57-mm Russian projectiles, seven 82-mm mortars, 10 pounds of propellants and various other projectiles near Patrol Base Kemple.

Coalition forces responded with an explosive ordnance disposal unit, which moved the munitions to an alternate location for disposal.

“The great work by the 17th Iraqi army removed a large amount of explosives from the Mahmudiyah Qada that could have been used against the ISF and CF,” said Lt. Col. Wayne Marotto, public affairs officer, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division. “We will continue to work with our ISF partners to remove weapon caches from Iraq in order to make the country safe for its citizens.”

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http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26252

305 IED's, WOW, GREAT FIND IA!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-11.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-11.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-11.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-11.gif

POOF GOES ANOTHER DIRTBAG CACHE, JUST LOVE IT WHEN THAT HAPPENS! :D

[Loyal American]

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AQI’s explosives, finance networks struck; 1 terrorist dead, 9 in custody
Thursday, 13 November 2008
BAGHDAD – Coalition forces killed one terrorist, captured three suspected terrorists and detained six additional suspects during operations Thursday targeting al-Qaeda in Iraq’s financial, explosives and leadership networks.

Terrorist funding networks in northern Iraq were disrupted Thursday by two Coalition force operations. During the first operation near Hawijah, approximately 60 km southwest of Kirkuk, one terrorist was killed by forces targeting a Tamim province AQI financial operative. Coalition forces were led to a residence in the area after reports suggested the man was located there.

When they entered the building, a man attempted to engage forces with an AK-47. Forces acted in self-defense, engaged the armed terrorist and killed him. It was later determined the dead terrorist was the wanted individual. Five additional suspects were detained for further questioning.

In the second operation targeting terrorist financial networks, Coalition forces in Mosul captured one suspected terrorist assessed to be a financial facilitator in the region.

Coalition forces targeting AQI’s explosives networks captured one suspected terrorist and one additional suspect near Bayji, 160 km south of Mosul. The suspected terrorist, who is believed to be an improvised explosive device facilitator, identified himself as the wanted individual and surrendered to Coalition forces.

In the Karmah neighborhood of Baghdad, Coalition forces captured one terrorist alleged to have ties to the city’s IED and leadership networks. http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23620&Itemid=128

MND-B Soldiers detain 3 suspected criminals, seize weapons cache
Thursday, 13 November 2008
BAGHDAD – Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers detained three suspected criminals and discovered a weapons cache Nov. 11-12 in the Rashid district of southern Baghdad.

At approximately 1:30 p.m. Nov. 11 in the Aamel community, Soldiers from Company A, 1st Battalion, 22nd Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, discovered and seized a 155 mm artillery round, four AK-47 assault rifles, two ballistic protective plates, and an assortment of tactical apparel.

Soldiers from the Scout Platoon, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Battalion, 4th Infantry Regiment, attached to the 1st BCT, 4th Inf. Div., detained an al-Qaeda in Iraq terrorist during a raid Nov. 11 at approximately 9:45 p.m. in the Hadar community. The patrol transported the detainee, who was wanted for roadside bomb attacks and recruiting more terrorists, to a nearby Coalition forces base for processing.

At approximately 12:15 a.m. Nov. 12, Soldiers from 2nd Platoon, Company B, 4th Battalion, 64th Armor Regiment, attached to the 1st BCT, 4th Inf. Div., arrested a suspected criminal in the Risalah neighborhood. The Soldiers transported the detainee to a nearby combat outpost to conduct additional questioning.

Also in the Risalah neighborhood, Soldiers from 3rd Pltn., Co. B, 4th Bn., 64th Armor Regt., attached to the 1st BCT, 4th Inf. Div., detained another suspected criminal at approximately 12:15 a.m. Nov. 12. The patrol transported the detainee, who is a suspected al-Qaeda operative, to a nearby combat outpost for additional questioning.

“Taking criminals and weapons off the streets to provide a safe and secure environment for the Iraqi citizens is the 1st ‘Raider’ Brigade’s primary mission,” said Maj. Dave Olson, 1st BCT spokesman, 4th Inf. Div., MND-B. “The Iraqi Security Forces are primarily responsible for security in many of the neighborhoods within the Rashid district while Coalition forces provide tactical over-watch, which means we teach, coach and mentor our counterparts as they do independent security operations.” http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23618&Itemid=128

HOOAH!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-11.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-11.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-11.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-11.gif

[Loyal American]

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Hundreds of Servicemembers Re-enlist During Veterans Day Ceremony

Thursday, 13 November 2008

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JOINT BASE BALAD — Nearly 300 servicemembers stationed across Iraq gathered at Holt Stadium here Tuesday to re-enlist in what officials said is the largest mass re-enlistment in the base's history.

After helicopter and convoy movements and rehearsals, 274 servicemembers swore oaths to defend their country again.

"We gather today to remind ourselves that our mission as fighting men and women must continue," Army Brig. Gen. Michael Lally, commander of 3rd Sustainment Command and the host for the event, said. "To continue, we must have those that are willing, able and are inspired to raise their hands again and again to be counted with those that came before them."

To the re-enlisting servicemembers, the significance of holding the ceremony on Veterans Day was important.

"Every Veterans Day has been big for us in uniform," said Army Sgt. Juan Rojas, a cook with the 297th ITC and a Miami native. "It gives me great pleasure to be here and be part of history."

Army Col. Kevin O'Connell, commander of 1st Sustainment Brigade, said Soldiers stay in the Army for the same reasons they join: training, education, adventure, money.

But the most important reason they stay in the military is service to their nation, he added.

"They're patriotic," O'Connell said. "They want to serve in an all-volunteer Army … to give back to a great nation what it's given to them."

While she was not planning to make the Army her career, said Army Sgt. Latasha Myers, a mechanic with the 503rd Maintenance Company, her experiences and the people she works with inspired her to re-enlist.

"I love what I do," she said. "I love fighting for my country."

O'Connell said friends and families should be proud of what their sons and daughters did this day.

"They re-enlisted on a big day, while they're in combat. They continue to serve when their nation needs them -- when we're in conflict," he said. "They're our future."

Lally said the re-enlisting servicemembers are common men and women who always have done, and will continue to do, uncommon things.

"The stories of those in front of you are still being written," he said. "Today another chapter has begun. Wherever they go, whatever they do, each story will be different. Each will contain trials and deployments, and tales from lands yet to be seen. However, the common theme in each will be their selfless service and their universal commitment."

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23629&Itemid=128

THANK YOU, TROOPS, FOR RE-ENLISTING! ALL AMERICANS ARE PROUD OF THE AMAZING JOB YOU ARE DOING!!! :flag::flag::flag:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/troopsgr7-1.gif

[Loyal American]

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/thththththth02paper-28-1-11.gif ..... HOT off the press!!! :clap:

Commando Kandaks Capture Improvised Explosive Device Cell Commander in Khowst Province
11.13.2008 at 12:28PM
BAGRAM AIRFIELD, Afghanistan – Last night, Afghan national security forces, assisted by their coalition partners, captured improvised explosive device expert Badshah Khel in Sabari District, Khowst province.

After receiving credible information from local Afghan officials, Afghan national army commandos conducted an early morning raid on Badshah Khel’s compound and captured the insurgent within minutes of initiating the operation.

During the operation no shots were fired and no non-combatants were harmed, highlighting the precision, professionalism and commitment of the Afghan commandos.

Badshah Khel is one of the most active IED cell commanders in the area and responsible for numerous attacks against coalition and Afghan national security forces in the Khowst province. http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26289


ONE SLIME DIRTBAG OFF THE STREETS, NEVER TO HARM THE INNOCENT AGAIN! GREAT JOB! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-11.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-11.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-11.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-11.gif

[Loyal American]

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Generals Take in Sights of Al Kut

11.14.2008 at 04:28AM

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FORWARD OPERATING BASE DELTA, Iraq – Senior leaders of Multi-National Division – Center removed their armor and toured markets in al Kut with provincial Iraqi security forces as a display of security in Wasit province Nov. 3-4.

Maj. Gen. Michael Oates, MND-C commander, and Brig. Gen. Jefforey Smith, MND-C deputy commanding general for support, joined Maj. Gen. Abd al Hanen Hammood Faisal, provincial director of police, Brig. Gen. Abed Gabr Mazloum, commander of the 32nd Iraqi Army Bde. and Col. Richard Francey, 41st Fires Bde. commander, for the tour and lunch in local restaurants.

The ISF took the lead providing security for both tours, which passed without incident.

“It was an honor to go downtown without weapons or body armor and with Iraqi security,” said Abd al Hanen. “We sent a message that the security situation in Kut is good, and anyone can go downtown and enjoy a walk in safety.”

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http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26328

SOUNDING VERY GOOD TO ME!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-22.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-22.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-22.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-22.gif

[Loyal American]

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Strike Troops Release Former Detainees Back Into Society

11.14.2008 at 03:59AM

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BAGHDAD – As families sat outside the Umr al Kora mosque in southern Ghazaliyah Nov. 13, one could feel the anxiety among all gathered to reunite with their loved ones. Many Iraqis fought hard to fight back their tears, as the joy of seeing their loved one seemed overwhelming.

It was a special day for all in attendance, especially those 47 individuals who were released after their time of detention.

The men were deemed fit to return to society and pledged to uphold peace and strive to become productive members of society.

Alongside their guarantor, who signed a pledge to promise to help the released detainees find jobs and cooperate with their oath, were welcomed with shouts of excitement and tears of joy as their families embraced them, thus marking another historic day for the Strike Brigade.

“I think this is the day that marks the improved security for northwest Baghdad as we welcome members of the family back to see their family members on this historic day,” said Col. Bill Hickman, commander of the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault).

Many of the men have pasts of criminal acts of violence or corruption but are being given a second chance to work and become productive members of society. This is extremely important as the calm within northwest Baghdad continues.

The government of Iraq saw it fit that the men were given this chance at rehabilitation; now it is in their hands to help this tide of stability to continue.

It’s even more important that society itself allows these men to return – and to return to a life of normalcy.

CLICK on photo to finish story:

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GOOD LUCK TO THESE DETAINEES, MAY THEY FIND JOBS AND BE PRODUCTIVE CITIZENS IN THEIR COMMUNITIES!

[Loyal American]

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/thththththth02paper-28-1-12.gif ..... Another Hoosier post, yes, I suppose I am a little bias! ;)

Familiar Faces in Unfamiliar Territory

11.14.2008 at 12:14AM

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CAMP TAJI, Iraq – When transporters from the 1538th Transportation Company, a National Guard unit based out of Elkhart, Ind., conducted their first Convoy Logistics Patrol mission Oct. 12, they were glad to see a few familiar faces in formation.

Under the direction of Staff Sgt. Terry Riggs, a Jeffersonville, Ind., native, and the mission commander, Soldiers from the 1538th Trans. Co. and other units around Camp Taji hauled cargo from the base to other locations in the Baghdad area.

Just as it was the first mission Riggs led since the unit’s transfer of authority with the 515th Transportation Company, it was also the first mission for some of the Soldiers on the convoy security element.

Although these Soldiers were new to the security mission, they were not at all new to Riggs and the other Soldiers of the 1538th Trans. Co.

The security element, which is commonly known as gun trucks, consisted of Soldiers from the 1538th Trans. Co. who were attached to the 1st Battalion, 206th Field Artillery, an Arkansas National Guard unit trained to conduct convoy security missions.

The gun truckers, as they are called, from the 1538th Trans. Co. have trained for their security mission since arriving on Camp Taji, and that night was an important milestone in their training.

“It was a good mission. It was fairly uneventful. For our first mission together, Staff Sgt. Riggs did well,” said New Albany, Ind., native 2nd Lt. Jacob Kruer, the gun truck commander for the mission.

For a gun trucker, “fairly uneventful” is a good night’s work, meaning no opposition was met and no improvised explosive devices or ambushes were encountered along the route.

In addition to the Soldiers on the security element, there were also other familiar faces included on the mission. In attendance were Soldiers from the 991st Transportation Company, an Army Reserve unit from Salisbury, N.C., who went through mobilization training at Camp Atterbury, Ind., alongside the 1538th Trans. Co.

During the mission, the 991st Trans. Co. used Palletized Load System vehicles to deliver cargo while the 1538th Trans. Co. used more traditional tractor-trailer equipment.

“It’s a lot of work getting a mission together. [There are] a lot of moving pieces, but we’re all working together real well. Our gun trucks did great,” said Riggs, who deployed to Iraq before as a transporter.

Even though the Soldiers of the1538th Trans. Co. are divided among the transportation mission and the security escort mission, they will come together many more times over the next year to conduct Convoy Logistics Patrols.

Many of these Soldiers are on their second tour of duty and come from around the state of Indiana, surrounding states, and as far away as Florida and New York. The 1538th Trans. Co. deployed in early September 2008 and is scheduled to return from Iraq in summer of 2009.

http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26317

THANK YOU, TAKE CARE, KEEP YOUR HEADS DOWN! WE ARE VERY PROUD OF YOU AND YOUR FELLOW BROTHERS AND SISTERS!!! :hug:

[Loyal American]

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Communication Key to Success in Karmah

11.13.2008 at 11:10AM

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KARMAH, Iraq – As Karmah progresses toward self-sufficient security with varying branches of Iraqi security forces, one of the final milestones necessary for the forces’ proficiency is organization.

To assist the Iraqis, Marines operating in the region helped them to set up a joint coordination center, which facilitates the organization of efforts of provincial security forces, Iraqi army and Iraqi police and helps propel their collective efforts to efficiently and diligently promote security in the greater Karmah area.

The JCC is essentially the hub for all communications between the security forces, explained Master Sgt. John Grimsley, the 36-year-old assistant operations chief from Groom, Texas, with Task Force 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 1.

The center is manned by representatives from each element of the ISF, as well as a Marine staff non-commissioned officer and a radio operator who are there to assist with any difficulties.

“We’ve taught them how to collect information and push it to the appropriate security forces as well as us,” Grimsley said. “It’s the only way to get our thumbprint off this country and help them secure their own land.”

The significance of the center’s success is substantial, said Major Jason Borovies, the 31-year-old operations officer from Springfield, Va., with 1st Bn., 3rd Marines.

“It’s important for two reasons,” he said. “One is for the obvious, it’s essential for them to coordinate their forces. Secondly, it’s important to coordinate their operations so we can continue the transition to an overwatch position.”

Borovies credited both Marines and ISF for early successes at the center.

“The Marines have a done an outstanding job setting up the JCC,” Borovies said. “They provided instruction and the Iraqi’s figured it out from there.”

ISF leaders also recognize the significance in uniting their forces.

“Providing communication between forces in the area is one of the most important things we have left to do,” said Iraqi Lt. Col. Ali Meshal Hardan, the lieutenant colonel of Karmah Iraqi police station.

“Before the [JCC] no one seemed to know what was going on. Now we coordinate efforts of all the forces to secure Karmah, and work with Marines much better.”

http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26281

GRRREAT!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gif

[Loyal American]

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/TZV76TCADGBPUSCASEW3MYCA2V1TK1CAWTG.jpg ..... I don't believe we've had a post like this one yet!!! Be sure to read all of it and see the hoops these Soldiers, family members jumped to make this happen!!!

Soldiers Share Name Tags/Married Couple Exchanges Wedding Vows in Iraq

11.12.2008 at 04:51PM

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BAGHDAD – As the Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 18th Military Police Brigade, serve in the final weeks of their 15-month deployment, they took time to gather together just before sundown, Nov. 10, 2008, for a rather unique ceremony that would be the first of its kind in the unit’s history.

The reason for the gathering was that two of the brigade’s Soldiers: Sgt. Lori Cortner, a native of Portland, Ore., and Sgt. Joshua Klassen, a native of Pocatello, Idaho, both of whom are assigned to HHC, 18th MP Bde., were actually married mere days prior to the event, Nov. 7. The ceremony served to commemorate their new union as they exchanged name tags and wedding vows as the unit chaplain blessed their marriage.

Col. Mark Spindler, the commander of the 18th MP Bde., walked the ‘bride to be’ down the aisle – in this case, the motor pool – and presented her to her ‘soon to be husband,’ before the couple recited their wedding.

CLICK on picture to read the rest:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/128254.jpg (http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26256)

CONGRATULATIONS AND BEST WISHES!!!

[Loyal American]

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Coalition forces pressure al-Qaeda networks across Iraq; 11 suspects detained
Friday, 14 November 2008
BAGHDAD – Coalition forces detained 11 suspected terrorists Thursday and Friday as they continued operations to expel al-Qaeda in Iraq from the country.

Coalition forces captured one wanted man Thursday during an operation near Al Iskandariyah, about 45 km southwest of Baghdad. Intelligence reports suggest the man is directly involved in terrorist activities in the region, to include assassinations. Two men assessed to be his associates were also detained.

Also Thursday, forces in Bayji, about 160 km south of Mosul, targeted an AQI operative involved in improvised explosive device and car bomb operations and detained one suspect.

Coalition forces continued to dismantle AQI networks in the Tamim province Friday. There, a wanted terrorist surrendered himself to forces, and three additional suspects were detained. The wanted man is reported to have been associated with an AQI leader killed in a previous operation.

Terrorist networks in Mosul were unraveled further during two Coalition force operations in the city Friday. During the first operation, one suspected terrorist assessed to be involved in IED and car bomb operations in east Mosul was captured as well as a man believed to be his associate.

During the second operation, a suspected terrorist believed to have ties with regional terrorist leaders identified himself as the wanted man and surrendered to Coalition forces. http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23645&Itemid=128

MND-B Soldiers find weapons in Baghdad
Friday, 14 November 2008
BAGHDAD – Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers found weapons caches in the Baghdad area Nov. 13.

Soldier serving with Company D, 2nd Battalion, 4th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, found a weapons cache in Adhamiyah at approximately 8:30 a.m. The cache contained two rocket-propelled grenade canisters, two RPG rounds, two RPG launchers, two recoilless rifles, eight 60mm mortar rounds, 43 81mm mortar rounds and an unknown number of canisters of recoilless-rifle propellant

At approximately 7:45 p.m., Soldiers serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, found a cache of various bomb-making materials, which included 10 electrical blasting caps, two Motorola radios with timers, seven Motorola radios, five washing machine timers, three radio-controlled transmitters, a passive infrared device, two Nokia cell batteries, a radio receiver, two battery packs, an unknown circuit board, two pairs of scissors, a set of tweezers, a box cutter and a box of misc. electrical parts.

“Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers excel in removing these dangerous war implements from the hands of those who would harm innocent Iraqi civilians,” said Lt. Col. Steve Stover, spokesman, MND-B and the 4th Inf. Div. “We are diligent in providing a safe environment for the Iraqi people.” http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23642&Itemid=128

OUTSTANDING!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gif

[Loyal American]

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Coalition Forces Kill Four Al Qaida Militants in Paktia
11.14.2008 at 12:44AM
KABUL, Afghanistan – Coalition forces killed four al Qaida associated militants during an operation to thwart the foreign fighter network in Paktia province, Nov. 13.

In Zurmat District, coalition forces targeted an al Qaida associated militant known to assist local Taliban leaders with the movement of Arabs and other foreign fighters into Afghanistan. These fighters have carried out numerous suicide and improvised explosive device attacks in the region.

As the force approached the targeted militants, they refused to follow instructions and attempted to engage the force with AK-47s. Realizing the imminent threat, the force engaged with small-arms fire and killed them.

A search of the area revealed the militants were heavily armed with multiple AK-47s, rocket propelled grenades, hand grenades and pistols. These items were destroyed to prevent future use. http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26319

Joint Afghan National Security Forces, International Security Assistance Force Operation Disrupts Insurgents
11.14.2008 at 04:41AM
KABUL, Afghanistan — Afghan national security forces planned and conducted a joint operation Nov. 12 to disrupt an insurgent cell in Qalat district, Zabul. This cell was responsible for attacks on Qalat city and an International Security Assistance Force base.

Due to the nature of the information received, ANSF and ISAF only had one day to plan and execute an operation under the name “Iron Cage.” The Afghan national army and Afghan national police together with ISAF seized several houses, which were suspected to be used by the insurgents.

In Sikhak village they discovered documents that proved the insurgents’ activity in the area. By the end of the operation, the ANP had detained nine people.

Romanian Major Virgil Ovidiu Pop, ISAF’s battalion commander for the operation, explained, “During Iron Cage we showed our presence in the Qalat area and denied the insurgents’ activities. Close cooperation with our ANSF colleagues was key to the success of this operation. http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26329

International Security Assistance Force Defeats Insurgent Attack in Wardak
11.14.2008 at 06:01AM
KABUL, Afghanistan — International Security Assistance Forces defeated an insurgent attack on an Afghan contractor convoy in Sayed Abad district, Wardak, Nov. 13.

ISAF forces responded to the attack with a ground reaction force and also called for close air support to the location. Having identified more than 10 insurgents in the area an airstrike was called in.

Three civilian contractors were wounded during the insurgents’ attack and were admitted to a local hospital. A further local national was also lightly wounded, however, after initial assistance, required no further treatment.

No other injuries to ISAF forces or civilians were reported. http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26334

HOOAH!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gif

[Loyal American]

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Oregon State, Dhi Qar University Begin Relationship

11.14.2008 at 02:05AM

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CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE ADDER, Iraq – The president of an organization affiliated with Oregon State University met with the Dhi Qar University chancellor Nov. 11 near Nasiriyah.

“We’re looking to build a sustainable relationship that goes beyond a one-time event,” said Josh Mater, the president of the Michael Scott Mater Foundation. “The Michael Scott Mater Foundation will hopefully be a catalyst to facilitate communication directly between OSU and Dhi Qar University.”

During Mater’s presentation to Dr. Ali Ismael al Snafi, chancellor of Dhi Qar University, he highlighted the foundation’s history, some example partnership efforts and what the chancellor can expect when he visits Oregon State in the coming months. The chancellor is scheduled to visit Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) and OSU official Dr. Ed Ray to discuss furthering the two universities’ partnership

“This is an amazing project, and Dhi Qar University would love to team up with OSU,” said Ali. “Since OSU is in the top 100 universities in the world, we hope to exchange ideas, scholarships, projects, training courses and cultural influences.”

Mater stressed that the support for this academic partnership has been overwhelming, with many governmental and non-governmental organizations donating their time and efforts.

Honeywell donated more than 100 books to the university and the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division from Fort Hood, Texas, which is currently operating in southern Iraq and the Dhi Qar province, facilitated delivery of the books to the university.

The Italian Provincial Reconstruction Team is assisting with the province’s rebuilding efforts as well as Oregon State’s efforts

“The key was to bring together so many organizations,” Mater said. “If we and other organizations can emulate this in the future, who knows what can be achieved here in Iraq.”

The Michael Scott Mater Foundation is a non-profit organization named after Mater’s father, a respected, innovative leader within the forest products engineering community in Oregon. Michael Scott Mater passed away from cancer in December, 2002.

“He [Michael Scott Mater] was extremely passionate about education and the community involvement,” Mater said. “The foundation was started in his name simply because I couldn't think of a better way to honor his memory than to continue the work which he did in our home town on an international level.”

The foundation is already doing similar work in South America. Mater’s foundation is committed to simply making the world a better place. He’s certainly started doing that in Iraq.

http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26321


FANTASTIC!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gif

[Loyal American]

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Military Working Dogs Impact Security at Kirkuk

11.14.2008 at 06:39AM

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KIRKUK REGIONAL AIR BASE, Iraq - There are military working dog teams operating around the clock with the 506th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadrons; their number one mission is conducting explosive detection searches and providing alarmed responses to any situation anywhere on the base.

"There is no greater piece of equipment to find explosive material than that of a dog's nose," said Staff Sgt. Brian Pope, 506th ESFS, military working dog handler, who is deployed from McChord Air Force Base, Wash. "Our MWD's provide a huge psychological deterrence for people who may break the law."

With a flawless sense of smell and extraordinary hearing, a MWD is an excellent weapon in the fight to keep KRAB safe.

"MWD not only detect dangerous explosive and narcotic odors, but also can detect human scent," said Staff Sgt. Rufus Watson, 506th ESFS, military working dog trainer, who is deployed from Holloman Air Force Base, N.M. "This capability is highly effective in rooting out bad guys who threaten to penetrate the installation and cause damage to KRAB personnel and infrastructure."

For the handler, a MWD is partner who can always be depended on to do his job.

"These dogs are as discipline and loyal as any Airman, Soldier, Sailor or Marine," said Tech. Sgt. Benjamin Jones, 506th ESFS, NCOIC, K-9 Section, who is deployed from Holloman AFB, N.M. "For the squadron, the K-9 plays a significant role in the commander's base defense plan; he counts on us to assist in eliminating any and every explosive threat on the base."

Handlers work 13-to 14-hour days with their MWD as well as the duties of maintaining their dogs, the dogs living area, and records before and after each shift.

CLICK on photo to read more:

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GOD BLESS THE MWD AND THEIR HANDLERS! :hug:
THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gif

[Loyal American]

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Cultural Borders Extended During Iraqi, American Video Teleconference

11.14.2008 at 07:29AM

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FORWARD OPERATING BASE FALCON, Iraq – “All for Iraq” adorns the light blue flags held by Iraqi children, Nov. 12, as they recited Iraq’s national anthem during a live video teleconference at the Forward Operating Base Falcon’s Morale, Welfare and Recreation Center.

The cultural exchange video teleconference between Iraqi and American children began with the opening remarks from Maj. Gen. Jeffery Hammond, the commanding general of the 4th Infantry Division and Multi-National Division – Baghdad.

“We have a program in Baghdad with 31 Iraqi and American schools partnered with 11 different states in America,” Hammond explained to the teachers, students and leaders on both sides of the world. “The School Partnership Program continues to build and grow in all directions.”

More than 20 Iraqi children from the al Khartoum Primary School in the Shurta community of southern Baghdad gathered at Forward Operating Base Falcon to participate in a question and answer VTC with a group of their peers from Nolanville Elementary School in central Texas.

“My experience is that the young school-age children in Iraq are no different than the children in America,” stated Hammond, who hails from Hattiesburg, Miss, who explained that the program is designed to foster communications between Iraqi and American youths and develop a better understanding of the different cultures.

During the exchange, the two sides asked questions and made remarks on a multitude of subjects, such as school, life and culture.

“I was very pleased to talk to the American students, and I was well educated on how their educational system works,” said Aseel Mazin, a 12-year-old girl, in what is the Iraqi equivalent to 7th Grade in American schools. “I got to learn what their daily schedule is like too.”

The conference offered a chance for Iraqi teachers and students to experience the cultural warmth and good will the Americans exude, said Maj. T.J. Reed, civil affairs officer assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment, 1st BCT, 4th Inf. Div.

“We will foster a cultural change to a time of enlightenment – not to change Iraqis to be like Americans but to exercise their freedoms and make their own decisions,” explained Reed, who calls Las Cruces, N.M., his home.

Interactions between the schools will continue to blossom and extend into high school and college for both sets of children, said Reed

Read the rest, CLICK on photo:

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An Iraqi boy, a student from al Khartoum primary school in the Rashid District of southern Baghdad, picks out his favorite flavor of ice cream during dinner at the Forward Operating Base Falcon Dining Facility, Nov

ABSOLUTELY TERRIFIC IDEA! :clap:
THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gif

[AEOakley]

Story about the celebration ceremony of the 233rd Marine Corps birthday on a base in Iraq.

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

"Even though we're in Iraq, we've still got to keep that tradition going..."

SEMPER FI!

:flag: :clap: :flag:

[Gengar]

Ahem... Word from Michael Yon... Good news indeed...

http://www.pajamasmedia.com/instapundit/archives2/027203.php

[AEOakley]

Ahem... Word from Michael Yon... Good news indeed...

http://www.pajamasmedia.com/instapundit/archives2/027203.php

:clap:Excellent! Thank you for posting the link, Gengar! Great news!

[Loyal American]

Ahem... Word from Michael Yon... Good news indeed...

http://www.pajamasmedia.com/instapundit/archives2/027203.php

Love the sound of victory! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gif

[Loyal American]

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Patriotic Poster Contest Stimulates Pride in Iraqi Youth

Saturday, 15 November 2008

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FOB FALCON — Children of southern Baghdad’s Doura community recently competed in a contest to indulge a budding sense of cultural pride and experiment with a newfound freedom of speech.

During the month of October, various children from Jazeera, located in the Rashid District, created more than 100 posters for a patriotic poster contest to express the Iraqi youth’s feelings on the current situation in Iraq and their forecasts of the future.

The submissions revealed an astonishing level of cultural awareness from the children, said Amir Salman, a councilmember of the Doura Neighborhood Council. What the children lacked in age, they compensated for with insight.

“The children were very proud,” stated Salman, who helped organize the event. “They have been telling all of their friends how much fun they had participating.”

Some of the children employed a wide array of styles and techniques in the production of the posters. The 8-year-olds made astute social observations in oil, and the 10-year-olds produced captivating cultural commentary in watercolor.

Some participants portrayed the current situation in Iraq with intricately detailed depictions of daily life; others displayed political cartoons and Iraqi symbolism to convey their interpretation of life.

Hashem Mahmood, an elected district council leader in Baghdad’s Rashid District, attended the initial unveiling of the exhibition.
“It is a kind of education for the people and it gives them motivation to do positive things,” Hashem said.

Read more, CLICK on photo:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/128771-1.jpg (http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23686&Itemid=128)

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gif..........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gif..........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gif..........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gif..........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gif..........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gif

[Loyal American]

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Coalition forces target AQI in north, central Iraq: one terrorist killed, five detained
Saturday, 15 November 2008
BAGHDAD – One terrorist was killed and five suspects were detained by Coalition forces Friday and Saturday as they continued to target al-Qaeda cells throughout the country.

Coalition forces further degraded al-Qaeda networks in northern Iraq on Friday. One terrorist was killed and another suspect was detained during an operation near Sharqat, about 90 km south of Mosul. Coalition forces stopped a vehicle believed to be driven by a Sharqat-area AQI cell leader. One of the vehicle’s occupants exited the vehicle and began acting in a threatening manner toward Coalition forces. Perceiving hostile intent, the ground force engaged and killed the terrorist. It was later determined that he was the wanted terrorist.

In Mosul, Coalition forces captured a wanted man assessed to be a member of a terrorist group associated with AQI. Reports suggest the man is an intelligence operative with connections to other terrorists throughout the city.

AQI financial facilitation networks were the target of an operation Friday in Kirkuk. There, forces captured a man believed to sell cars to help fund terrorist operations.

Coalition forces dug further into Baghdad AQI networks Saturday. One wanted man believed to have connections to the city’s illegal terrorist court system was captured along with one additional suspect. http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23677&Itemid=21

MND-B Soldiers detain SG criminal, MND-B Airmen report munitions (Baghdad)
Saturday, 15 November 2008
BAGHDAD – Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers captured a suspected Special Groups criminal and Airmen discovered unexploded ordnance Nov. 14 in the Rashid district of southern Baghdad.

While conducting a targeted raid in Hayy Aamel area at approximately 1 a.m., Soldiers from Company A, 1st Battalion, 22nd Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Multi-National Division – Baghdad, detained a Special Groups criminal suspected of conducting an intimidation attack against Iraqi citizens in the Rashid district of southern Baghdad. The patrol moved the suspect to a Coalition forces base for processing.

At approximately noon, Airmen of Detachment 3, 732nd Expeditionary Security Forces, 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing, attached to the 716th Military Police Battalion, 18th MP Brigade, supporting the 1st BCT, 4th Inf. Div., reported finding two serviceable hand grenades in the Risalah area of the Rashid district in southern Baghdad. A CF explosives ordnance disposal team responded to handle the grenades.

“The Soldiers and service members of the 1st ‘Raider’ BCT, working in support of MND-B and Operation Iraqi Freedom, continue to remove criminals and their weapons from the Rashid district and Baghdad,” said Maj. Dave Olson, spokesperson for the 1st BCT, 4th Inf. Div., MND-B. “The men and women of MND-B conduct daily security operations to assist the Iraqi Security Forces, enforcing Baghdad’s Rule of Law to provide a safe and secure environment for the approximately 1.6 million Iraqi citizens of the Rashid district in southern Baghdad.” http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23683&Itemid=128

SWAT units capture 3 suspected criminals in central Iraq (Balad)
Saturday, 15 November 2008
BALAD, Iraq – Iraqi Security forces captured two suspected al-Qaeda in Iraq terrorists and one criminal commander during separate operations in central Iraq Nov. 11-12.

On Nov. 12 in Iskandariyah, Hillah Special Weapons and Tactics team arrested two suspected al-Qaeda in Iraq cell members on a Ministry of Interior warrant. The individuals are allegedly responsible for improvised explosive device attacks against Iraqi police, and transporting weapons throughout the Babil province.

During a Kut operation Nov. 11, the Kut SWAT captured a suspected mid-level criminal commander. The individual is believed to be the commander for all Karimiyah District and is allegedly responsible for attacks against Coalition and Iraqi forces. http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23680&Itemid=128

AWESOME JOB!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gif

[Loyal American]

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Afghan, Coalition Forces Capture Insurgent Leader in Ghazni Province
11.15.2008 at 05:54AM
KABUL, Afghanistan — An elite Afghan national police unit, assisted by coalition forces, detained a key insurgent leader in an early morning raid in Espandi village, Ghazni province, Nov. 14.

The combined forces conducted the raid after receiving credible information from local officials on the location of the insurgent, capturing him within minutes of initiating the operation.

The insurgent leader is responsible for the deaths of Afghan national security forces members, improvised-explosive device attacks on coalition forces, and the kidnapping of humanitarian aid workers.

The ANP recovered a video showing the insurgent leader instructing fighters on how and where to emplace IEDs in Ghazni province. The evidence will be utilized to incarcerate the key insurgent leader, ensuring his criminal activities can no longer destabilize the security of Ghazni province.

The special response team commander requested the name of the key insurgent commander be withheld until all members of the IED cell are detained.

During the operation, no shots were fired and no non-combatants were harmed. http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26378

Coalition Forces Kill 10 Haqqani Militants and Foreign Fighters in Paktya
11.14.2008 at 10:21PM
KABUL, Afghanistan – Coalition forces killed 10 Haqqani militants and foreign fighters during an operation to disrupt the Haqqani improvised explosive device and foreign fighter network in Paktya (Paktia) province, Nov. 14.

In Zadran District, coalition forces targeted several Haqqani leaders and foreign fighters, known to plan and conduct IED attacks aimed to injure and kill innocent civilians and coalition forces. These militants were also believed to coordinate suicide bombings and other attacks against Afghan and coalition forces in the region.

During the operation, the force encountered several groups of armed militants who opened fire on them. Unable to neutralize the threat with small-arms fire, coalition forces engaged the militants with precision munitions killing them and destroying a large cache of rocket propelled grenades, mines and other ordnance. http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26374

AND, for a change the above made MSM today too! Take a look:

http://www.comcast.net/articles/news-general/20081115/AS.Afghanistan/

THANK YOU, TROOPS, OUTSTANDING JOB!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gif

[Loyal American]

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SoI, citizens assist IA, MND-B Soldiers to clear streets (Baghdad)
Saturday, 15 November 2008
BAGHDAD – Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers, with help from Sons of Iraq members and citizens, took weapons off the streets of Baghdad Nov. 10-11.

Soldiers from 4th Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment, attached to the 2nd Brigade Combat Team of the 101st Airborne Infantry Division, MND-B, worked with the Iraqi Army’s 3rd Battalion, 54th Brigade, 6th IA Division, to seize munitions in the Mansour district of Baghdad Nov. 10, at approximately 10 a.m. Munitions included a 85 mm PG-7M, three 130 mm OF-33s, a 115 mm OF-27, and 15 pounds of unknown powder.

An Iraqi citizen reported to a local SoI that her children had found weapons inside of a mosque in Adhamiyah at roughly 5:30 p.m. Nov. 10. The SoI informed National Police and found three AK-47s, a machine gun, four rocket propelled grenade launchers, six RPG-7 rockets, an Iranian-manufactured RPG, a 125 mm sabot round, two OG-7 anti-personnel rounds, spare parts for PKCs, 15 RPG propellant chargers, 34 Dishka rounds and five anti-aircraft rounds.

In Mansour, a team of Soldiers with the 4th Inf. Div.’s Battery B, 4th Battalion, 42nd Field Artillery Regiment, attached to the 2nd BCT, 101st Airborne Division, MND-B, found several weapons while searching a factory at approximately 10 a.m. Nov. 11. The weapons consisted of four 60 mm mortars and three blasting caps.

A citizen north of Baghdad found a hidden store of munitions and turned them in to Troop C, 2nd Squadron, 14th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25 Infantry Division at approximately 10:45 a.m. Nov. 11. The find totaled eight 125 mm projectiles.

“U.S. Soldiers and their Iraqi counterparts continue to take munitions and weapons out of the hands of those who would harm the innocent,” said Lt. Col. Steve Stover, spokesman, MND-B and 4th Inf. Div. “SoI also continue to have a role in improving security in and around Baghdad.” http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23681&Itemid=21

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[Loyal American]

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Camp Fallujah Set to Close Four Years After Two Major Battles

11.14.2008 at 03:09PM

By Gunnery Sgt. Matthew A. Butler
I Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward)

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CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq – The Multi-National Force - West command element and the last major coalition force units left here for the final time on Nov. 14, marking an end to the two historic battles for Fallujah and the long fight to return the city to normalcy which started more than four years ago.

“The name Fallujah and Camp Fallujah is the most recognized name of the entire Iraqi war - the city of Fallujah – it’s always been a tough place,” said Marine Maj Gen John F. Kelly, commanding general, MNF-West. “It was a tough place when we took over from the 82nd Airborne and until very recently it was the symbol of al-Qaida and the terrorist power.”

“As we leave here and shift the headquarters to a different part of Iraq we’re closing down a chapter. I think Fallujah has turned more into a symbol of what these cities can be if you defeat the terrorists and empower the Iraqis to take over for themselves.”

Camp Fallujah was home to nearly 8,000 service members from combat and service support units in February when the Camp Pendleton, Calif., based I Marine Expeditionary Forces took charge of al-Anbar.

Now only a few hundred Marines remain to clean up the base before officially handing it over to the Iraqis in the next few months.

Coalition forces began the transition to greater Iraqi control this spring and have been in an advisory and support roll since Anbar returned to Provincial Iraqi Control in September. Closing Camp Fallujah is a direct result of the continued stability in Anbar that made PIC possible.

Some of the bloodiest fighting in the Iraq war, with approximately 95 American deaths, occurred during the second, 46-day battle for Fallujah in November and December of 2004 after al-Qaida and the insurgency laid claim to what is known as the Sunni triangle.

With the insurgency all but eliminated the camp has seen dramatic changes. It no longer needs many of its fortifications. Rows of dirt-filled wire and cloth HESCO and concrete barriers placed around living quarters and soft buildings have been removed.

Sand bags by the thousands have been pulled from windows and emptied. Of the three chow halls only one remains open; the others have been disassembled.

With the level of violence down, so are the causalities at Camp Fallujah’s combat hospital.

The hospital, which has seen 7,750 patients in four and half years, is also closing. The last six month the hospital’s staff of 25 Navy doctors and corpsmen has treated only one casualty. During sustained combat operations in 2004 the hospital of more than 115 doctors was treating more than 3 serious casualties a day.

Finish reading, CLICK on the photo:

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Marines from I Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group (Forward) board an MV-22 Osprey with their personal gear as part of the relocation of Marine forces in Iraq after the turnover of the base to the government of Iraq. Some Marines will remain on the base as part of the base’s transition to the Iraqi military, but the command element has relocated to Al Asad Air Base.

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10th Cavalry Soldiers, Iraqi Police Deliver Humanitarian Aid in Ameriyah

11.15.2008 at 05:39PM

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CAMP LIBERTY, Iraq – With many families lacking the daily essentials in Ameriyah, a neighborhood in western Baghdad, Soldiers serving with 4th Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, attached to 2nd BCT, 101st Airborne Div., Multi-National Division - Baghdad, delivered 50 humanitarian aid boxes to the Al Firdous mosque on Nov. 13.

The boxes were dropped off to be given to needy families in the area through a key local community leader, or shaykh.

“We’ve done this a few times,” said 2nd Lt. Andrew Kendzierski, a native of Buffalo, N.Y., who serves with Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 4th. Sqdn., 10th Cav. Regt. “We bring these aid boxes to local mosques, and then the shaykh of that particular mosque will gather families together, and then the shaykh ensures that the care packages get to them. At this particular mosque, Shaykh Abu Hassan has at least 50 deserving families in mind, and each box provides enough for that family – at least for a little while.”

Kendzierski said that each box contained oil for cooking, rice, water, laundry detergent, essential items for those less-fortunate families.

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THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gif

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Afghan National Security Forces, Coalition Forces Kill 30 Militants in Helmand Province
11.16.2008 at 05:51AM
KABUL, Afghanistan – Afghan national security forces and coalition forces killed 30 militants in the Nahr Surkh District, Helmand province.
ANSF and coalition forces were conducting a combat reconnaissance patrol when they positively identified militants operating in the area. The combined forces engaged the militants with small-arms fire, mounted weapons and supporting fire, killing 30 militants and destroying two militant vehicles.

No ANSF, coalition forces or civilian casualties have been reported. http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26409

Commandos, Coalition Forces Kill Four Insurgents and Destroy Drug Facility
11.16.2008 at 04:06AM
KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Afghanistan – Afghan national army commandos of the 205th Commando Kandak and coalition forces destroyed an insurgent drug processing and distribution facility after engaging enemies in the Spin Buldak District, Kandahar province, Nov. 15.

The combined forces discovered the remote, isolated drug processing and storage facility after receiving reports of illegal activity in the area. The coalition forces were engaged by four insurgents with small arms as they approached the compound. The insurgents were eliminated using small-arms fire.

The facility contained one ton of narcotics, several 55-gallon drums filled with drug processing chemicals and other drug processing equipment. All of the contents were destroyed on site.

No civilian casualties or injuries were reported. http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26407

Afghan National Police, Coalition Forces Target Al-Qaeda and Haqqani Foreign Fighter Networks
11.16.2008 at 12:41AM
KABUL, Afghanistan – Five militants were killed and 18 detained during Afghan national police and coalition operations aimed at dismantling the al-Qaeda and Haqqani foreign fighter networks in eastern Afghanistan, Nov. 15.

In Zurmat District, coalition forces detained a significant al-Qaeda associated militant, known to finance militant operations and to assist Taliban leaders with the movement and training of Arab and foreign fighters into Afghanistan. The al-Qaeda associate was detained during one of several operations targeting the al-Qaeda network in Paktia province, Nov. 15. These operations resulted in five armed militants killed and eight militants detained.

Searches conducted during the operations revealed rocket propelled grenade, several dozen hand grenades, multiple AK-47s and other military equipment. These items were destroyed to prevent future use.

In Khost, Afghan and coalition forces netted a Haqqani militant also known to facilitate the movement of foreign fighters into Afghanistan. During the combined operation, the force discovered 10 additional males believed to be militants and seeking safe heaven as they move into Terezai District to conduct attacks. The combined force also found multiple hand grenades and other military style equipment in the compound. http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26397

Afghan National Security Forces, Coalition Forces Kill Five Militants in Oruzgan Province
11.16.2008 at 12:28AM
KABUL, Afghanistan – Afghan national security forces and coalition forces killed five militants in Shaheed District, Oruzgan province.

ANSF and coalition forces began searching a compound while conducting a foot patrol. As they entered the compound, militants engaged them with automatic weapons. ANSF and coalition forces responded with small-arms fire, killing five militants.

ANSF and coalition forces also discovered two improvised explosive devices on the compound. They neutralized the IEDs on site.

No ANSF, coalition forces or civilian casualties have been reported. http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26394

HOOAH!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gif

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Terrorist networks in Iraq hit hard; two killed, 10 captured (Baghdad)
Sunday, 16 November 2008
BAGHDAD – Coalition forces killed two terrorists, captured five wanted men and detained five additional suspects Saturday and Sunday as they continued striking al-Qaeda in Iraq around the country.

Coalition forces targeted a senior leader of a terrorist organization during an operation in Baghdad on Sunday. When forces arrived at the residence believed to house the terrorist, they called for its occupants to surrender. Two individuals in the building repeatedly refused to comply with instructions and then began acting in a threatening manner. Perceiving hostile intent, Coalition forces engaged the men, killing them both. None of the building’s other occupants were injured.

During an operation targeting AQI leadership in Hit, which is 155 km northwest of Baghdad, one suspected terrorist and three of his associates were detained Sunday. The suspected terrorist has alleged ties to AQI leadership in the region.

Sunday in As Sadiyah, 112 km northeast of Baghdad, Coalition forces apprehended a suspected terrorist believed to be a member of the Diyala AQI network with involvement in intelligence and security operations.

During four separate operations, Coalition forces weakened AQI’s improvised explosive device networks. In Baghdad on Saturday, forces captured one suspected terrorist assessed to be an IED facilitator with ties to leadership in the Rusafa network.

In the second operation, Coalition forces working in Mosul on Sunday detained two individuals suspected of being associated with the city’s IED network.

The third operation took Coalition forces to Abu Ghraib, 25 km west of Baghdad, where they captured one suspected terrorist assessed to have ties to leaders of the region’s IED networks.

Coalition forces in Kirkuk captured one suspected terrorist during a fourth operation targeting AQI’s IED cells. The suspect is assessed to be involved with IED and vehicle borne IED attacks in the region. He is also believed to maintain contact with regional AQI leaders. http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23709&Itemid=21

MND-B Soldiers detain suspected criminal, defeat IED in Rashid
Sunday, 16 November 2008
BAGHDAD – Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers detained a suspected Special Groups criminal and defeated an improvised explosive device Nov. 15 in the Rashid district of southern Baghdad.

At approximately 2:30 a.m., Soldiers of Company A, 1st Battalion, 22nd Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Multi-National Division – Baghdad, conducted operations in the Hayy Jihad community, resulting in the capture of a suspected special groups criminal leader, suspected of IED attacks, murder, extortion, kidnappings, assassinations and weapons trafficking.

At approximately 9:30 a.m., Soldiers from Co. C, 1st Bn., 22nd Inf. Regt., 1st BCT, 4th Inf. Div., MND-B, found an IED in the same community. An explosives ordnance disposal team disarmed the bomb made from three anti-aircraft rounds.

“The Soldiers from the 1st ‘Raider’ Brigade continue to remove criminals and their weapons from the Rashid district in southern Baghdad,” said Maj. Dave Olson, spokesperson for the 1st BCT, 4th Inf. Div., MND-B. “The men and women of MND-B conduct daily security operations to assist the Iraqi Security Forces enforcing Baghdad’s Rule of Law to provide a safe and secure environment for the approximately 1.6 million Iraqi citizens of the Rashid district.” http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23711&Itemid=21

ISF, NP capture of 2 suspected terrorists in Mosul
Sunday, 16 November 2008
MOSUL, Iraq – Iraqi Security Forces and the National Police captured two individuals with possible ties to a-l-Qaeda in Iraq activity in Mosul Nov. 15.

At approximately 10:40 a.m., soldiers with the 1st Battalion, 6th Brigade, 2nd Iraqi Army Division and NP captured the two suspected terrorists and recovered three AK-47 rifles during a combined operation in the Al Rissala neighborhood. The two suspects were taken into custody for questioning.

“The ISF and National Police are performing like a team, and as result, they are making a difference in shutting down terrorist operations in Mosul,” said Maj. Gary Dangerfield, Coalition forces spokesman in Ninevah province. http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23708&Itemid=21

OUTSANDING JOB!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-12.gif

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Joint Air Cargo Operations Terminal Improvements Focus on Keeping Passengers Comfortable

11.16.2008 at 03:22AM

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TAQADDUM, Iraq – With a few new additions and attention to customer service, the service members at Camp Taqaddum’s Joint Air Cargo Operations Terminal are working to make it an easier stay for all transiting passengers.

The combined effort between Base Operations, the Air Liaison Element, Air Force Detachment Four and the Arrival Airfield Control Group/Departure Airfield Control Group focused on improving the way of life for passengers during their transit and their stay at the JACOT.

“Our mission is to keep them inside and out of the elements for as long as possible,” said Chief Warrant Officer Robert J. Dempsey, the AACG/DACG officer in charge for Transportation Company, 1st Maintenance Battalion (-) (Reinforced), 1st Marine Logistics Group.

Previously, passengers would wait outside anywhere from 30 to 40 minutes. Now, thanks to the addition of new Southwest Asia huts, that time has been cut down to 10 minutes extending the traveler’s stay in a comfortable environment.

“It’s almost like [Chicago] O’Hare International Airport without all the delays,” Dempsey said.

The commercial airline appeal has also extended to baggage. While rotating carousels and conveyer belts are not available yet, the “seabag drag” is no longer allowed.

“We will provide a box to put their bags in. We’ll make sure their gear gets taken to the [aircraft] for them. We want them to know we’re thinking of them.”

With new changes in effect and more on the way, the crew at the JACOT strives for customer satisfaction.

“We’re constantly working together as a team to provide customer service by working directly with passengers.”
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Water Treatment Plant Training, Repairs Offer Long-Term Solution

Monday, 17 November 2008

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BABIL PROVINCE — An Iraqi crew’s repairs to the water treatment plant in Musayib will ensure clean drinking water to 50,000 households in the area.

“After years of neglect, the facility is currently pumping water directly from the Euphrates River into the city’s drinking water distribution system with little or no filtration,” said Lt. Col. Michael Darrow with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. “The only treatment that is being provided is chlorination. It is unregulated and insufficient to adequately treat the raw river water,” he continued.

Nearly 35 Iraqi workers are on the crew rehabilitating the plant’s major mechanical systems, with the goal of restoring its full design capacity of 2,160 cubic meters per hour. The $1.6 million project is now 32 percent finished, Darrow said.

This is one of more than 600 water treatment or sewage projects in Iraq overseen by USACE, which have direct impact on the quality of life for nearly 5 million people.

In addition to the construction effort, there is also a mission to ensure that the Iraqis are trained and ready to operate the plant on their own. The Babil Provincial Reconstruction Team and embedded Provincial Reconstruction Team supporting the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, are developing training programs to certify Iraqi operators.

Once the plant repairs are complete next spring, the staff will be ready to produce clean water and will know the proper maintenance requirements to avoid major breakdowns. “The intent is to offer a certification process similar to what the typical water treatment plant operator in the United States is required to go through,” Darrow noted.

“We all recognize that operations and maintenance is one of Iraq’s biggest challenges and that a priority needs to be placed on developing skills and abilities,” said Maj. Kimberly Peeples, deputy team leader of the North Babil embedded PRT. “We are working hand-in-hand with the Babil water director general and the Babil PRT to identify a sustainable solution.

“We are committed to assisting the Iraqis in taking this important step,” she concluded. “It will ensure Musayib families can count on clean water coming out of their taps for years to come.”

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23753&Itemid=128

USACE ROCKS!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-13.gif

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School Upgrade Creates Jobs, Better Learning Environment

Monday, 17 November 2008

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THI QAR PROVINCE — An Iraqi crew is renovating a high school in southern Iraq, repairing the leaky roof, replacing hazardous electrical wiring and fixing the non-functioning toilets.

The project at Al Nadwah School in Al Dhyabat Village in the northern Thi Qar Province translates into jobs for the local community with about 40 residents on the construction crew, building materials purchased from area businesses, and the school itself employing 19 teachers.“

These improvements are enhancing the learning environment here,” said construction representative Toni Graves with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. “My job is to check on the progress and quality of the work. It’s inspiring to see the appreciative smiles from the students.”

The Iraqi laborers are rehabilitating the floors, ceilings, doors, windows, staircases, interior and exterior walls. New electrical panels, wiring, florescent light fixtures, ceiling fans, power outlets, and switches are being installed. The $152,000 project is expected to be complete next month.

More than 240 students attend classes at the 15-room facility which was originally constructed nearly 30 years ago.

Headmaster Mohammed says this is the first major renovation his school has had, and the community is very appreciative. “It’s looking great,” he said. “The Iraqi workers - many of whom live here - know how much their efforts mean to area families. Everyone is pleased.”

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Gulf Region Division has overseen the renovation or new construction of nearly 1,100 schools, with another 38 still under construction.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23751&Itemid=128

GOD BLESS AND THANK YOU USACE!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththththAmericanFlag-Animated--13.gif

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Afghan Doctors Receive Training From Egyptian, Korean, U.S. Physicians

11.17.2008 at 12:07PM

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BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan - Afghan physicians from Kapisa province are learning from the medical communities of three different countries, yet it’s all happening at one place: Bagram, Afghanistan.

This unique, 90-day medical course will provide these Afghan physicians with training like no other available to them before, in fact this course is the very first of its kind in Afghanistan, said Maj. Paul R. Brezinski, Task Force Med plans and programs officer, who is helping to orchestrate the event.

The course began in early November and runs through January. It takes place at the Egyptian Field Hospital, the Korean hospital and the U.S. Craig Joint Theater Hospital. Five physicians have enrolled in these classes so far, including Dr. Mirza, the director of public health for Kapisa province.

The importance of the partnership between these three completely different counties was stressed by the TF Med commander, the Commander of the Egyptian field hospital and the director of the Korean hospital.

“It has to be full coordination because here at the Egyptian field hospital not all of the facilities are available,” said Egyptian field hospital Commander Col. Mohamed Abd Elbaky. “So for example, we don’t have ultrasound [equipment], so we will have to go to the Korean or the U.S. hospitals.”

Just as different medical issues and doctrines are sometimes specific to different countries, those differences are represented in these three clinics.

“We all bring our own piece to the table,” said Brezinski. “At the U.S. hospital we do a lot of trauma cases, so they will see that aspect in the U.S. hospital. They are going to see a lot of patients and clinical issues here at the Egyptian hospital that quite frankly we don’t see that often at all in the states or in Egypt or in Korea.”

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AWESOME!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-13.gif

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International Security Assistance Force, Pakistan Coordinate Strike on Insurgents
11.17.2008 at 11:35AM
KABUL, Afghanistan - Insurgents attacked an International Security Assistance Force base in Paktika, Nov. 16, leading to a coordinated artillery strike into Pakistan.

The ISAF base received two separate rocket attacks from a location within Pakistan. Following the second attack, ISAF soldiers were able to identify the origin of the enemy rocket launches. Upon positive identification, ISAF coordinated with the Pakistan military and fired a total of 20 artillery rounds on the enemy location. The artillery fire caused a secondary explosion at the rocket launch site, which indicates additional munitions in the location.

ISAF and Pakistani soldiers observed all fired artillery rounds. The Pakistan soldiers assured ISAF that they would engage any insurgents attempting to flee deeper into Pakistan.

There were no ISAF casualties. http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26445

Afghan National Security Force, International Security Assistance Force Defeat Two Insurgent Attacks
11.17.2008 at 11:31AM
KABUL, Afghanistan - Afghan national security forces and International Security Assistance Forces defeated two insurgent attacks in eastern Afghanistan, Nov. 16.

In Nangarhar, insurgents fired rocket-propelled grenades at the civilian-populated district center of Khogyani and a nearby ISAF base. Afghan national army, Afghan national police and ISAF forces returned fire by ground and air in defence of the area. A number of insurgents were killed, and one is in Afghan custody. No civilians or soldiers were injured.

Insurgents also attempted to attack an ISAF base in Bermel district, Paktika. ISAF soldiers returned fired in self-defence and called in attack helicopters. A large number of insurgents were killed, while again no civilians or ISAF soldiers were injured.

“We commend the Afghan national army and the Afghan national police for their outstanding defence of their fellow citizens. Their capabilities are improving, and ISAF will continue to support them in defeating these enemies of peace,” said Brig. Gen. Richard Blanchette, ISAF spokesperson. “Although no civilians were injured, the insurgents’ attack on a district center only re-emphasizes their complete disregard for Afghan lives. This further solidifies ISAF’s steadfast support of the Afghan government in our joint mission to make this country more secure so that the Afghan people can go about their business without fear of attack from such murderers.” http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26444

OUTSTANDING!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-13.gif

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Iraqis Make Positive Step in Allowing U.S. Troops to Stay in New Year
11.17.2008 at 03:36PM

WASHINGTON - After weeks of struggle to reach an agreement, an important next step has been made for U.S. troops to continue operations in Iraq in 2009, Pentagon spokesman Bryan Whitman said today.

The Iraqi cabinet has signed the draft U.S.-Iraq status of forces agreement, allowing American troops to continue operating there and training Iraqi security forces after the United Nations Security Council mandate expires on Dec. 31.

The cabinet signing is an important step, but the draft agreement still must be approved by the Iraqi parliament, then ratified by Iraq's three-member presidential council, Whitman told reporters at a Pentagon news briefing.

"It's important to remember that it's just a step in the process," he said. "It's not complete yet, [and] we can continue to remain hopeful and confident that we'll have an agreement that can be implemented."

The current standing agreement allows U.S. forces to operate within the country only until Dec. 31. The Defense Department would not confirm the agreement's details for troop withdrawal. Actual details could be released as early as this week, Whitman said.

"We are at the point now that we have a signed document," he said. "It's my understanding that [U.S. officials] who are a little closer to the process might have details available within the next few days."

http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26460

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Military Leaders Feel Comfortable With U.S.-Iraqi Agreement, Mullen Says


WASHINGTON, Nov. 17, 2008 – All American troops will be out of Iraq by the end of 2011 under the status of forces agreement between the United States and Iraq, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said today. Navy Adm. Mike Mullen called the agreement important and one the United States needs to continue to operate in Iraq after the U.N. mandate expires Dec. 31.

U.S. officials in Baghdad said Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al Maliki and U.S. Ambassador Ryan Crocker signed off on the pact yesterday, and Maliki presented it to the Iraqi Council of Representatives.

U.S. military leaders are comfortable with the provisions of the agreement, including previous concerns that American forces have the necessary legal protections to continue to conduct operations in the country, Mullen said.

“Conditions continue to improve (in Iraq), and specifically, I mean we continue to withdraw forces,” Mullen said during a Pentagon news conference today.

The chairman said he is satisfied with the rate of withdrawal. “(We are) clearly moving forward in a measured way,” he said.

Iraqi security forces have made tremendous progress and should be ready to assume the primary duty of defending their own homeland by the agreement’s 2011 deadline, he said.

Mullen said he is, of course, aware that President-elect Barack Obama has said he would speed up the withdrawal of U.S. troops from Iraq. If ordered, the U.S. military could speed up the withdrawal, he said, but added that he would like for any such actions to be based on conditions in Iraq.

“It's doable,” Mullen said. “It's a very significant footprint and a very sizeable force, but we've been moving in and out of this theater for a long period of time, and we have the capacity and the capability to do it.”

Mullen added, “I certainly understand there are other options. It's something that we look at all the time. But … from the military's perspective, I think it's best to be conditions-based.”

The agreement also calls for American forces to be out of Iraqi cities and towns by the end of 2009. The American military is already out of the towns and cities in most of Iraq. Coalition forces are in overwatch in the provinces that have returned to provincial Iraqi control.

“This is consistent with how we have moved, once an area has been turned over to the Iraqis for security,” Mullen said.

Two areas where there may be problems are in Baghdad and Mosul where most of the fighting is and there is greater need to train Iraqi security forces, Mullen said.

“The Iraqi security forces being able to provide for their own security is one of the big keys to a successful transition,” he said. “We're focused on that like a laser.”

Mullen said he is comfortable with the training timetable.

“That (training) mission has been incredibly well executed,” he said. “The pace is a good pace, and I think that the pace will more than suffice for what needs to be, in terms of Iraqi security forces taking over totally in their own security in the future.”

http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=51969

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Coalition Forces Detain 14 During Operations in Eastern Afghanistan
11.17.2008 at 11:13PM
KABUL, Afghanistan – Coalition forces detained 14 militants during multiple operations to disrupt the movement of foreign fighters and thwart attacks against coalition and Afghan forces in eastern Afghanistan, Nov. 17.

In Tagab District, coalition forces detained six suspected militants during an operation to disrupt attacks against Afghan and coalition forces in Kapisa. The targeted militant is believed to be a Taliban commander who plans and conducts such nefarious activities. The force searched the compound without incident while protecting 19 women and 25 children during the operation.

In a separate operation, coalition forces detained four insurgents following a search of a compound in Waghez District, Ghazni. The operation targeted a local Taliban commander believed to be in contact with senior Taliban commanders in the region. The militant is also suspected of planning and coordinating attacks in Ghazni that kill and injure innocent civilians and coalition forces.

In Zurmat District, coalition forces detained four suspected militants, including targeted al Qaida and Taliban associated individuals, during operations Nov. 17. These militants are suspected of coordinating and aiding the movement of foreign fighters to carry out attacks into the region. http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26471

GREAT JOB, TROOPS!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-13.gif

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Connecting With Iraq’s People, Witnessing Hope at the Roots
11.18.2008 at 04:10AM

CAMP VICTORY, Iraq – They walked in the fields of Iraq, talked to its farmers and people, learned their stories, their struggles, their hope.

Team Borlaug, the agricultural assessment team from Texas A&M University, visited the farmlands of southern Iraq for six months; now, members can look back at their accomplishments.

Humor clings to their tongues as they retell stories of the Iraqi people - despite the poverty and human struggles they’ve seen. They have learned from farmers who shared pains of the past in order to see growth in the future.

Blaze Currie, of Wellman, Texas, the team’s youth program development expert, talked about a farmer in Karbala province who had a plot of land behind his house set aside for farming.

“He said he couldn’t plant it this year, but he would next year,” Currie said of the farmer. “And our simple question that we asked a lot of times was, ‘Why didn’t you plant it last year?’ His answer was, ‘Well, I had to flood it first to get rid of all the mines.’ … That, to me, symbolizes the concept of agriculture in this nation to develop economic stability.”

Currie and the other members of Team Borlaug could talk for hours about these experiences. The team had up to 14 members, and their mission for the past six months was to work with coalition forces and Iraqi farmers to improve the country’s agricultural situation. They visited the eight provinces south of Baghdad and submitted reports to assist in developing actionable plans. As an example, Currie remembers an artillery sergeant who made tea for local sheikhs invited on base as guests.

“He was a big, buffed up dude that I mean, was just pretty rugged … and this big old dude that was stocky and looked like he could manhandle about anybody … [was] leaning over making chai. And I said, ‘Why are you making chai?’ And he had the funniest look and he said, ‘Well, why wouldn’t I? They make chai for us, don’t they? … This is as commonplace as putting ammo in my clip. I gotta’ make chai whenever they come.’

“I’ll never forget that,” Currie said. “That was the epitome of something I didn’t expect a Soldier to be doing – a great service to be doing in Iraq – but they were doing it.”

Team Borlaug gives credit for their success to Soldiers like this one, and to those who escorted them throughout Iraq while they conducted their assessment. When talking about what they learned, they will share their memories; but when talking about their accomplishments, they will point back to civil affair teams, PRTs and coalition forces dedicated to improving this country. Above all, they point to the Iraqi people.

“I learned the people of Iraq want the same thing for themselves and their families that we want for ours. They want peace. They want freedom. They want hope,” Briers said.
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Agricultural Round Table Addresses Successes, Solutions
11.18.2008 at 02:30AM

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CAMP VICTORY, Iraq – An Agriculture Round Table was conducted at the Joint Visitors Bureau on Camp Victory to discuss current issues in Multi-National Division-Center's area of operation Nov. 13.

This was the third round table held with MND-C leaders, which allowed attendees to measure the progress made since the last conference in August.

"There are two important aspects of a conference like this," said Brig. Gen. Jefforey A. Smith, MND-C deputy commanding general of support. "One is the discussion and dialogue and the sharing of thoughts . . . so I would encourage all of us to be good listeners. Second, and most important in my mind, is all of the work that has been done before this."

Multi-National Division-Center has worked closely with several organizations, such as Team Borlaug from Borlaug Institute of Texas A&M University and United States Agency for International Development, as well as provincial reconstruction teams and the government of Iraq to develop recommendations and implement plans for a successful agricultural economy.

"We all operate in a resource-strained environment, and there is no amount of resources we are going to be able to apply in the next year to get the agricultural system in Iraq where it needs to be," said Smith. "I think the legacy those folks here will leave for those who come after us and to the Iraqi people is helping them with prioritizing how we apply the resources that are available to the agricultural industry."

Contrary to what Dr. Edwin Price, leader of Team Borlaug, expected, the main impact has not been the changes in technology or practices but more from empowering the Iraqi people to become more active and assertive in their leadership, economy and agricultural sector.
A functional agriculture sector in Iraq is imperative considering it is the main employer of the country; between 50 and 70 percent of the population derives their income and livelihood from farms or in "off farm" occupations built upon agricultural production.
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Vanguard Holds Final Iraqi Army Route Clearance Graduation

11.18.2008 at 03:29AM

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FORWARD OPERATING BASE KALSU, Iraq – Thirty-one Iraqi army soldiers graduated from the last class of the Vanguard Brigade’s route clearance course at Forward Operating Base Kalsu Nov. 15.

The Lionclaw Route Clearance Academy, which began its first class July 20, taught four iterations of the course to Soldiers in the 31st Brigade, 8th IA Division.

“Today we stand here and celebrate the fourth graduation, and we’re celebrating for two reasons,” said Brig. Gen. Abdul Amir, 31st Bde. commander. “The first reason is because of you, the heroes who have graduated as a road clearance platoon, and the second reason is because now we have finished training four road clearance platoons. Now we have one road clearance platoon in each battalion … so now we have more military fighting ability.”

The course covers route clearance basics and how to properly maintain route clearance equipment. It begins with equipment familiarization and the basic improvised explosive device fundamentals. After learning the basics, the IA Soldiers are expected to start developing missions, which includes conducting mission briefs. Finally, the IA and U.S. Soldiers conduct joint route clearance missions in the Iraqi communities.

“This course gives us a lot of military information on how to do road clearance operations,” said 2nd Lt. Ali Abdulla Moshin, platoon commander for the class with 4th Battalion, 31st Bde. “The U.S. military forces trained us, and then they made us stand up on our own feet to protect our country and keep our country safe.”

Moshin, who is an infantryman, now will specialize in route clearance missions.

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CONGRATULATIONS AND GOOD LUCK, IA!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-13.gif

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Terrorist leadership, bombing networks disrupted; 18 detained
Tuesday, 18 November 2008
BAGHDAD – Coalition operations further dismantled al-Qaeda in Iraq’s terrorist leadership and bombing networks throughout Iraq on Monday and Tuesday, as forces captured four wanted men and detained 14 suspected terrorists.

Forces continued to strike terrorist leadership in Iraq Monday night. During an operation in Bayji, about 160 km south of Mosul, forces detained one man believed to be associated with a terrorist leader in the city. Forces in As Sadiyah, about 112 km northeast of Baghdad, detained four men believed to have connections to a senior courier in the Diyala AQI network.

Two synchronized operations on Tuesday in Tarmiyah, about 35 km north of Baghdad, degraded AQI’s bombing networks in the Tigris River Valley. During one operation, Coalition forces captured a wanted man believed to house suicide bombers and facilitate AQI meetings in his residence. He and three other suspects were detained.

A concurrent operation in Tarmiyah netted a second wanted man believed to train AQI operatives on improvised explosive device construction and employment. The suspected terrorist, who reports suggest was actively planning a car bomb attack in the Tarmiyah area, surrendered himself to Coalition forces. Four other men assessed to be associates of the wanted man were detained for further questioning.

Terrorist bombing networks were also the target of a Coalition operation in Bayji on Tuesday. There, a wanted man associated with IED facilitation networks in the Tigris River Valley, was captured. He surrendered himself to Coalition forces without incident.

Mosul bombing networks were also dealt a blow by Coalition forces on Tuesday. A wanted man, believed to be an IED facilitator, was captured by ground forces along with two additional suspects. The wanted man is also assessed to be an administrator and operations planner for a terrorist organization affiliated with AQI. http://dr15.ahp.dr1.us.army.mil/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23819&Itemid=21

ISF, CF kill 2 terrorists, capture 4 during operations in Mosul
Tuesday, 18 November 2008
MOSUL, Iraq – Two terrorists were killed, and four men detained during two intelligence-driven operations in Mosul Nov. 16-17.

On Nov. 16 at approximately 11:10 p.m, police with the Emergency Response Battalion 3 along with Soldiers from 3rd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, killed two terrorists during an operation in the Al Amel neighborhood. The ERB officers also consficated one 9 mm pistol and two fragmentary hand grenades.

During the second operation, Nov. 17, Iraqi soldiers from the 3rd Battalion, 12 Brigade, 3rd Iraqi Army Division, and Soldiers with the 1st Battalion, 8th Infantry Regiment, captured four suspected terrorists in the Al Tameen neighborhood at approximately 1.a.m. http://dr15.ahp.dr1.us.army.mil/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23817&Itemid=21

OUTSTANDING!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-13.gif

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Coalition Forces Kill 5 Militants, Destroy Weapons Cache in Farah
11.18.2008 at 07:45AM
KABUL, Afghanistan – Coalition forces killed five militants today and destroyed a weapons cache in Farah province.

The militants were tracked to a remote location about 75 kilometers northwest of Farah city where they were observed loading weapons into a vehicle from a weapons cache. Coalition aircraft used precision munitions to destroy the militants, weapons and vehicle.

There were no civilians or man-made structures in the vicinity of the operation. http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26484

FIVE MORE DIRTBAGS OUT OF COMMISSION, NEVER TO HARM THE INNOCENT AGAIN!!!

THANK YOU, SWEET JOB, TROOPS! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-13.gif

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Seddah Radio Station Broadcasting to Local Residents

11.18.2008 at 10:09AM

FORWARD OPERATING BASE KALSU, Iraq – On Nov. 10, U.S. walked into the city council building in Seddah, turned on a portable radio tuned to FM 88.8 and heard something new … music.

“The opening of the Seddah radio station is the first since the time of Saddam,” said 1st Lt. Josh Ray, fire support officer with Company C, 3rd Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division. “The city council, who is always interested in enhancing the quality of life for their citizens, has been instrumental and very motivated about getting the station operational.”

The broadcasting day has been in the works for the past nine months. Seddah radio is official; however, it is still undergoing a broadcasting test to identify strengths and weaknesses in the broadcast.

“They recognized what this means for the city of Seddah as they move forward in the reconstruction stage within their city,” said Ray, a native of Chattanooga, Tenn., who helped facilitate the funding and building of the radio station. “There is now a medium of communication that is far more effective than putting announcements out through the mosque speakers.”

The current signal strength only supplies a broadcast up to eight kilometers, which is unacceptable to Reaad Abd Al Sahib, the radio station director. Reaad is soliciting expert advice from other radio station executives on how to strengthen the signal to maximize the broadcast output and increase the number of Iraqi citizens able to listen to the station.

“All the hard work that so many Iraqi [people] and coalition forces put in to the project really paid off,” said Sgt. 1st Class Christopher Williams, 2nd Platoon sergeant from Bloomington, Ill., who also helped facilitate the project. “We believe that this is just another step in returning the city back to normal. This also shows how far Seddah has come in the last 13 months. The people of Seddah really do believe in change and making their city a better place.”

http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26490

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Rough Riders, Iraqis Strike Lightning at Rifle Range

11.18.2008 at 10:12AM

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CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE ADDER, Iraq – Iraqi and coalition soldiers trained together on one another’s weapons at the Lightning Memorial Range, Nov. 13.

Soldiers from the 10th Iraqi Army Motorized Transportation Regiment and Soldiers of the 27th Brigade Support Battalion, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division learned about their counterparts’ weapon systems and improved their cooperative relationship.

“The goal for today was to build good relationships with the Iraqi troops and learning each other’s weapon systems,” said 1st Sgt. Benito Torres, the head enlisted Soldier of Company A, 27th BSB. Torres believes that this will help his Soldiers perform better with the Iraqi security forces on combat operations.

“We are so happy that we are working together with the American forces, and the cooperation increases and develops every day,” said Iraqi Lt. Col. Ali Abdul Abas, the officer in charge of the Iraqi troops at the range.

The Iraqis learned about the basic principles of marksmanship and how to apply them to the M-4 carbine. The Americans learned how to fire the main weapon that Iraqi Soldiers carry, the AK-47 assault rifle.

“It was good training because it was Soldier-to-Soldier interaction,” said Spc. Derek Horne, a 27th BSB Soldier from Sidney, Ohio. The Iraqi and American Soldiers paired up, and the one that was not firing coached the other.

Iraqi Lt. Ahmed Oahtar, a convoy security commander, believed his troops did a good job and he is looking toward to working with the Long Knife Brigade in the near future.

“The training improved our bond as partners and made us aware of weapons systems we might want to purchase for our army in the future,” said Oahtar, who hails from southern Baghdad.

The units displayed their own unique skills that could be applied to future security operations. While the Iraqi and American troops shot down targets one after the other, they raised the strength and camaraderie that makes this partnership a success.

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Iraqi Security Forces, Coalition Hold Border Security Conference

Tuesday, 18 November 2008

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FORWARD OPERATING BASE GARRY OWEN — For the first time in the Maysan province, leaders from the Iraqi Army, Police and border patrol met with coalition leaders near the provincial capital of Amarah Nov. 15.

The 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division leaders worked behind the scenes for weeks to bring together commanders from the 11th Border Enforcement, the 38th and 41st Iraqi Army Brigades and the Maysan police.

The Long Knife Brigade assembled this group to share information on suspected criminal activity and plan future cooperative efforts to increase border security in the province.

“Up to this point, the border patrol, Iraqi Police and Iraqi Army have done great work in securing the province,” said Col. Philip Battaglia, commander of the Long Knife Brigade. “This conference represents a huge step toward synchronizing all those successes to close security gaps and secure the province as a whole.”

Iraqi leaders were extremely pleased with the new level of cooperation and how the conference demonstrated the big picture to the provincial leaders.

Iraqi leaders were extremely pleased with the new level of cooperation and how the conference demonstrated the big picture to the provincial leaders.

“We are having great success, but since the province is such a large area to cover, we have to make sure our forces’ locations are right with respect to each other,” said Maj. Gen. Habib Taleb Abbas, 10th IA Div. commander.

Habib chaired the conference and offered time to other commanders to address their ideas for future cooperation among the rest of Iraq’s security forces.

Security during Iraq’s upcoming January election was a hot topic for the leaders.

“Working together starts with planning together,” said Maj. Gen. Saad Harbiya, commander of Maysan’s police officers. He recommended another conference to solely focus on security for the election.

Three of the Long Knife Brigade’s battalions are operating in Maysan. The 1st Squadron, 9th Cavalry Regiment, is partnered with the border patrol element to interdict munitions and arrest criminals crossing from Iran into Iraq. The 2nd Bn., 7th Cav. Regt., is partnered with the 38th IA Bde. and the 5th Bn., 82nd Field Artillery Regt., is partnered with the 41st IA Bde.

The Iraqi security forces in southern Iraq have arrested approximately 200 suspected criminals and seized more than 9,000 various munitions – to include improvised explosive device and explosively formed projectile materials since the Long Knife Brigade arrived this summer.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23833&Itemid=128

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Sergeant Receives On-the-spot Promotion in Afghanistan

11.18.2008 at 06:57AM

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KANDAHAR AIR FIELD, Islamic Republic Of Afghanistan – Nov. 16 began much like any other day for Sgt. Jose Garza as he woke up at about 6:30 a.m., shaved his face and put on his uniform. However, Garza, a corporal at the time, went to work early to fix an aircraft. Little did he know that his good work ethic would equate to more than just a repaired aircraft.

That morning, Maj. Gen. Thomas Waldhauser, 1st Marine Division commanding general, meritoriously promoted Garza, an aviation electrician with the air combat element of the Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force - Afghanistan, on the spot after Garza repaired Waldhauser’s aircraft at Kandahar Air Field.

Waldhauser, who was visiting his deployed Marines, arrived at Kandahar on an Air Force KC-130J cargo transport aircraft, but electrical problems delayed its departure, leaving the aircraft grounded for more than an hour while Air Force mechanics tried to correct the problem. Garza, however, fixed the problem in about 30 minutes.

“I was finishing-up some work on another aircraft when my gunny came to me and asked me if I could help-out with the other plane,” said Garza, an aviation electrician. “I never thought it would earn me a [meritorious] promotion.”

Gunnery Sgt. Carlisle L. Wallace, aviation maintenance chief and Garza’s staff noncommissioned officer in charge, said after he talked to the crew, he found out they needed an electrician. He knew Garza was the Marine for the job.

Fellow Marines describe Garza as the go-to-guy in the unit.

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CONGRATULATIONS SGT GARZA AND THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththththAmericanFlag-Animated--13.gif

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U.S. Military Begins Partnership With Haditha Hospital

11.18.2008 at 01:55PM

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HADITHA, Iraq – U.S. military medical personnel from the 345th Combat Support Hospital aboard Al Asad Air Base have taken the first steps toward establishing a partnership with the Iraqi hospital.

Army personnel from the 345th along with service members from the Navy and Marine Corps headed to Haditha Hospital, Oct. 30, to participate in the first key leadership engagement between the two hospitals.

The partnership is designed to increase the capabilities and quality of care available at Haditha Hospital. During the visit, Army doctors met with Iraqi doctors and hospital administrators to gather information regarding what it will take to return the Iraqi facility to its full capabilities.

The biggest challenges will be to increase the quality of basic services and modernize the facility that deteriorated under Saddam Hussein’s regime, according to Col. Dwight Shen, the key leader engagement team leader and the deputy chief of clinical services at the 345th CSH. Shen described the hospital’s current state as “primitive.”

The 2nd Class Petty Officers Association out of Camp Pendleton, Calif. helped to kick start the partnership between the two hospitals by donating more than 200 medical textbooks to the hospital. Petty Officer 1st Class Jesse Tossetti, a corpsman with 3rd Bn. 7th Marine Regt., participated in the initial visit to the hospital and delivered the textbooks for the association.

“This partnership can only benefit the local people of Haditha,” said Tossetti.

Initially doctors and corpsman from the U.S. military will focus their efforts on teaching Iraqi medical personnel about basic hygiene, infection control, preventative medicine and the essential skills of basic life support, according to Shen.

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GRRREAT, THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-13.gif

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Terror Groups Along Afghan-Pakistan Border Feel Pressure

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 18, 2008 – With U.S., Afghan and Pakistani forces applying pressure on both sides of the Afghanistan-Pakistan border, the enemy “is running out of options for places to go,” a senior U.S. officer in the region said today.

Army Col. John M. Spiszer, commander of Task Force Duke, which is centered on the 1st Infantry Division’s 3rd Brigade Combat Team, said the addition of units from the 10th Mountain Division’s 3rd Brigade Combat Team in January will change the operating environment in the four-province region of Regional Command East.

Speaking with Pentagon reporters via teleconference from Forward Operating Base Fenty in Afghanistan’s Nangahar province, Spiszer said the region also includes the provinces of Nuristan, Konar and Laghman.

The area is the most violent in Afghanistan, the colonel said, and the border is a large part of that. In the past year, Taliban and other terror groups have been able to find safe havens on both sides of the rugged border. The 4,200 members of Task Force Duke have worked hard to tamp down the violence, he said, and increased Pakistani efforts on their side of the border have helped.

“In our area of operations, the border is becoming less and less of a transit zone, as Afghan national security forces, U.S. troops, the Pakistani military and the Pakistani Frontier Corps continue to conduct complementary operations against our joint enemy,” Spiszer said.

READ MORE, CLICK ON PHOTO:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/on-the-move3-1.jpg (http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=51989)

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[Loyal American]

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ISF arrest local government official in Diyala for criminal activity
Tuesday, 18 November 2008
KHALIS, Iraq – Iraqi Security Forces, acting on a Government of Iraq warrant, arrested a local government official in Diyala for criminal activity.

The Khalis official was detained for using his government position to deny GoI funding intended to support citizens in eastern Diyala, and providing logistical and financial support to criminal organizations in the area.

The official was on a terrorist watch list and has facilitated the training of criminals on explosives in Iran.

This raid was intended to stop the intimidation of residents, to disrupt criminal activity, and to restore the GoI directed funding to organizations.

The suspect’s case will be reviewed and adjudicated according to Iraqi law. http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23846&Itemid=128
AWESOME!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-13.gif

[Loyal American]

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Coalition forces capture alleged Baghdad weapons dealer, detain eight suspects
Wednesday, 19 November 2008
BAGHDAD – Coalition forces detained nine suspected terrorists during operations targeting al-Qaeda in Iraq's weapons facilitation and leadership networks on Wednesday.

A suspected terrorist who reports suggest is an AQI weapons facilitator was captured by forces in Baghdad. Three additional suspects believed to be his associates were also detained for further questioning.

During a second operation in Baghdad, forces targeted another alleged AQI weapons facilitator who is also assessed to be a financier for the terrorist group. Three suspects believed to have connections to the wanted man were detained during the operation.

About 124 km northeast of Baghdad in Jalula, forces detained three suspects believed to be associates of an AQI leader in the city. http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23850&Itemid=21

Afghan and Coalition Forces Target Haqqani Network in Khost
11.18.2008 at 09:57PM
KABUL, Afghanistan – Afghan and coalition forces detained one suspected militant during a combined operation targeting the Haqqani terrorist network in Khost, Nov. 18.

The combined force searched a compound in Khost district, targeting a militant known to be in direct contact with senior Haqqani leaders who finance and facilitate terrorist activities in the region. A search of the compound revealed one rifle, pistol and magazine. http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26515

GREAT JOB, TROOPS!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-13.gif

[Loyal American]

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/thththththth02paper-28-1-13.gif
Small Patch of Grass Brings Touch of Home to Strikers

11.19.2008 at 04:55AM

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FORWARD OPERATING BASE WAR EAGLE, Iraq – It was a Sunday and approximately 15 Soldiers of the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Multi-National Division – Baghdad, gathered on a small patch of grass at Forward Operating Base War Eagle – ready for battle. The Soldiers split into the blue and green squads. They had their mission and their goal was in sight.

The green squad kicked off the action.

“It’s football. It’s about as American as it gets,” said Sgt. Justin Buck, a native of Wilson, Okla., who serves as a brigade fire support non-commissioned officer with Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 3rd BCT, 4th Inf. Div.

Toward the end of September, a small patch of grass was installed at the FOB. Shortly afterward, the Soldiers started playing ball.

“Sundays … a lot of people have down time; there’s nothing to break up that monotony. It’s such a small FOB. It’s not like you can escape anything and get out of the usual areas,” said Staff Sgt. Keith Reiss, a native of Colorado Springs, Colo., who serves in the supply section, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 3rd Special Troops Battalion, 3rd BCT, 4th Inf. Div.

Reiss and others tried to start a flag football league. They had all the necessary equipment. Unfortunately, the operational tempo made it impossible. Instead, a small core group of players meet every Sunday – walk-ons are always welcome – and play for a few hours, until it becomes too dark to see the ball. They have only missed a few weeks.

CLICK to read more:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/129844.jpg (http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26523)

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[Loyal American]

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Strikers, Warriors, Iraqi Security Forces Conduct Cross-boundary Operation

11.19.2008 at 05:12AM

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AL ISLAH, Iraq – To combat the car bomb threat in northern Adhamiyah, Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers and Iraqi security forces conducted a joint operation in Baghdad’s Istaqlal District Nov. 18.

Soldiers from MND-B’s 1st Combined Arms Battalion, 68th Armor Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, and 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, partnered with the Iraqi army’s 1st Battalion, 42nd Brigade, 11th Division, and the national police’s 3rd Battalion, 4th Brigade, 1st Division and 2nd Brigade, 1st Division, for the maneuver.

The early morning operation netted seven detainees and, hopefully, safer streets for the Iraqi people as well as Iraqi security and coalition forces.

“We will not allow the enemy to exploit the seams between units,” said Maj. Rob MacMillan, a Gulfport, Miss., native, who serves as the operations officer for 1-68 AR.

A coalition of American and Iraqi soldiers participated in clearing and searching buildings, vehicles and nearby fields. Some of those Soldiers were inserted into the area via helicopter to provide quick access to areas that would take too long to reach via ground transportation.

“We conducted a successful cross-boundary operation to deny the enemy a safe haven,” MacMillan said.

Shortly after the sun rose, the Soldiers had cleared their target areas and returned to their bases across northern Baghdad.

“This mission truly showed the value of the Iraqi security forces in helping prevent a dangerous and deadly tool of the enemy from hurting the good people of Iraq, as well as other members of the security forces in northern Baghdad,” said Maj. Michael Humphreys, a Greeneville, Tenn., native, who serves as the public affairs officer for 3rd BCT, 4th Inf. Div.

http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26524

OUTSTANDING JOB, TROOPS, THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-13.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-13.gif

[Loyal American]

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Runway Re-opens, Increases Mission Flexibility of Kirkuk Air Base

Wednesday, 19 November 2008

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KIRKUK REGIONAL AIR BASE — A runway re-opened here after more than three months, with a ceremonial first touch-n-go, Nov. 17.

The newly resurfaced runway 14/32 was christened by Iraqi Air Force Lt. Ali Karim, Iraqi flying wing pilot trainee, and Capt. Craig Morash, 52nd Expeditionary Flying Training Squadron instructor pilot, in a Cessna 172S Skyhawk.

Even though it's open for business, the 506th Expeditionary Operational Support Squadron commander said a small number of final details need to be finished.

"It's like buying a new house," said Lt. Col. Elisabeth Auld, 506th EOSS commander. "There's still a few more things to do. Even so, we have a far superior runway than we had a few months ago.

"We were lucky to have the right combination of airfield management experts, civil engineers and Red Horse warriors to get the job done."

The list of "to do's" though is short, she stated, with final touches needed to the markings on the 8,535-foot runway and the installing of lights so it can be used at night.

With the new surface, Airmen will not have to "chase" every heavy aircraft looking for broken asphalt.

"We will no longer have to worry about that on our new runway," said Tech. Sgt. Clint Harper, 506th EOSS airfield manager. "The resurfacing greatly increases the safety of our crews and aircraft.

Also, without this project to worry about, more time can be devoted to one of the many other projects we have going on, or are coordinating."

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/129670.jpg

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23851&Itemid=128

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[AEOakley]

Major Al-Qaeda operative killed in US missile strike: official

A major Al-Qaeda operative of Arab origin was among six militants killed overnight in a suspected US missile strike in northwest Pakistan, a senior security official told AFP Wednesday.

Security sources identified the militant as Abdullah Azam al-Saudi, a senior member in Osama bin Laden's Al-Qaeda network.

"He was a senior commander of Al-Qaeda and was involved in recruiting and training of fighters," the senior official said.

According to US intelligence shared with Pakistan, al-Saudi was the main link between Al-Qaeda's senior command and Taliban networks in the Pakistani border region, an Islamabad-based senior security official said.

"He was the man coordinating between Al-Qaeda and Taliban commanders on this side of the border, and also involved in recruiting and training fighters," the official told AFP.

He is the second high-profile Al-Qaeda operative killed in recent US missile strikes in Pakistan's rugged tribal region bordering Afghanistan.

Read the rest here: http://www.breitbart.com/article.php?id=081119124755.jtc47ype&show_article=1

[Loyal American]

Major Al-Qaeda operative killed in US missile strike: official



Read the rest here: http://www.breitbart.com/article.php?id=081119124755.jtc47ype&show_article=1

Annie, I was just reading about this, here are two good entries in LWJ too:

US Predator strikes al Qaeda & Taliban outside of Pakistan's tribal areas

By Bill Roggio
November 19, 2008 1:08 AM

An unmanned US Predator aircraft attacked a Taliban and al Qaeda safe house in the Bannu Frontier Region east of North Waziristan early today, according to reports from the region.

At least five people were killed in the early morning airstrike, including two "foreigners," according to Dawn (http://www.dawn.net/wps/wcm/connect/Dawn%20Content%20Library/dawn/news/pakistan/nwfp/us-drone-strike-kills-five-in-bannu--ha). Five people are reported to have been wounded. Arabs and other central Asian and North African al Qaeda members are often called foreigners by local Pakistanis.

Abdullah Azzam al Saudi, a senior al Qaeda leader operating in Pakistan's tribal areas and the Northwest Frontier Province, is reported to have been killed (http://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2008/11/senior_al_qaeda_lead_3.php) in the attack. Azzam, a Saudi national, serves a liaison between al Qaeda and the Taliban operating in Pakistan's northwest, intelligence officials told The Long War Journal. Azzam facilitates al Qaeda's external operations network that is tasked with striking against the West. He also served as a recruiter and trainer for al Qaeda.

Rest in link:

http://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2008/11/us_predator_strikes.php


Senior al Qaeda leader targeted in airstrike in Bannu, Pakistan

By Bill Roggio
November 19, 2008 9:50 AM

This morning's airstrike in Pakistan's Bannu region (http://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2008/11/us_predator_strikes.php) targeted a senior al Qaeda leader with close ties to Osama bin Laden, sources told The Long War Journal.

The early morning Predator strike is thought to have killed Abdullah Azzam al Saudi, a senior al Qaeda leader operating in Pakistan's tribal areas and the Northwest Frontier Province.

Azzam, a Saudi national, serves as a liaison between al Qaeda and the Taliban operating in Pakistan's northwest, intelligence officials said. Azzam facilitates al Qaeda's external operations network that is tasked with striking against the West. He has also served as a recruiter and trainer for al Qaeda.

Pakistani intelligence officials reported Azzam was killed along with four other al Qaeda and Taliban operatives after Hellfire missiles launched from Predator or Reaper unmanned aircraft slammed into the home of Sakhi Mohammad in the Bannu Frontier Region.

Rest in link:

http://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2008/11/senior_al_qaeda_lead_3.php

[Loyal American]

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Raiders Train 9th Iraqi Army Bomb Disposal Technicians

11.19.2008 at 12:13PM

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FORWARD OPERATING BASE FALCON, Iraq – Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers conducted explosive ordnance training with Iraqi security forces bomb disposal technicians, Nov. 16, at Forward Operating Base Falcon in southern Baghdad.

Soldiers and leaders from the 752nd Explosive Ordnance Disposal Company, attached to the 1st Special Troops Battalion, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, MND-B, detonated a van full of munitions to train soldiers from the 9th Iraqi Army Bomb Disposal Company on the proper techniques for effective post-blast site exploitation.

“I think this training is important for the Iraqi EOD because it gives them a chance to see how we operate,” said Staff Sgt. Stephen Cunningham, a team leader assigned to the 752nd EOD Co.

The Soldiers packed the van with approximately 200 pounds of military-grade munitions to properly depict a real-world scenario.

“As far as their equipment is concerned, they have plenty of robots; their bomb suits and their knowledge is very up to date,” explained Cunningham, a Los Angeles native. “They know what they’re dealing with, especially when it comes to conventional ordnance.”

The training keeps the IA soldiers on their toes and it contributes to the fight in the long run, said Spc. Curtis Garner, an EOD specialist assigned to the 752nd EOD Co.

“They seem really responsive, and they have a good grasp on what they are doing for their country,” stated Garner, a native of Portland, Ore. “We just offer them a different avenue, outlook or thought process.”

Garner said he believes the IA team leaders are competent and capable enough to introduce new concepts previously not practiced by the IA bomb squad.

CLICK on photo to read more:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/129937.jpg (http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26534)

GREAT, THANK YOU TROOPS!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gif

[Loyal American]

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/thththththth02paper-28-1-14.gif Good entry at LWJ about Mosul!

In Mosul, Iraqi units overshadow Americans

By Wesley Morgan
November 19, 2008 2:50 PM

One after another, the vehicles streamed past into central Mosul – beige armored vehicles bristling with weapons and antennae, followed by trucks packed with troops. The midnight push was an unusually large one, totaling more than forty vehicles and over a battalion of infantry, all pushing into the centuries-old Zanjili neighborhood, toward a location suspected of being a base for suicide car bombs.

The long column was not American, though. It was a force massed and led on the spur of the moment by Major General Muhammad Sabri Latif, the commander of the 3rd Iraqi National Police Division. Although the vehicles of American advisors were sprinkled throughout the column, and a pair of hulking US Abrams tanks pulled security at a major intersection, the arrival of the long stream of armored vehicles and pickup trucks filled with soldier-policemen in blue camouflage took the American troop commander in the area, Captain Justin Harper, who had planned on a small raid, by surprise.

“It turned into a circus,” said Harper, whose Killer Troop, 3rd “Thunder” Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, is responsible for the part of western Mosul that the squadron headquarters considers most problematic. “But it’s probably what the general intended. He has this huge security detail, and when he takes it out like that, and directs the placement of individual vehicles, it may be frustrating to us, but it shows that he’s in charge.”

The “surge” orchestrated by Generals David Petraeus and Raymond Odierno did not touch Mosul last year, nor did the famous Sahwa, or awakening movement. But this city, the capital of the northern Ninewa province, has been the center of another surge this year – a surge of Iraqi combat forces to lock down one of the last strongholds of the Sunni insurgency in Iraq.

CLICK on link to read the rest, it's interesting:

http://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2008/11/in_mosul_iraqi_units.php

[Loyal American]

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Coalition forces capture five wanted men, detain 10 additional suspects
Thursday, 20 November 2008
BAGHDAD – Coalition forces captured five wanted men and detained 10 additional suspects during operations targeting terrorist networks throughout Iraq on Wednesday and Thursday.

A wanted man assessed to be a car bomb facilitator was captured by Coalition forces Wednesday in Sharqat, about 90 km south of Mosul. Reports suggest the suspected terrorist was actively planning a car bomb attack in the city at the time of his capture. Two additional suspects were also detained.

One suspect was detained by forces in Mosul on Wednesday. The man allegedly has connections to an al-Qaeda in Iraq car bomb cell leader in the city.

Terrorist bombing networks were also the target of a Coalition force operation Wednesday in Abu Ghraib, about 25 km west of Baghdad. There, forces captured a wanted man believed to be associated with an area terrorist group. The suspect is assessed to be involved in car bomb facilitation and possibly has connections to other area terrorist operatives.

Forces in Tikrit, about 160 km north of Baghdad, captured another wanted man and detained four men believed to be his associates Wednesday. The suspect is an alleged AQI cell leader in the city.

Also Wednesday, forces detained one suspect in Baghdad believed to have links to one of the city’s terrorist leader.

Forces continued to target Baghdad-area terrorist leaders Thursday, capturing a suspected terrorist leader and detaining a man believed to be his associate.

Also Thursday, Coalition forces operating in Bayji, about 160 km south of Mosul, captured a wanted man assessed to be a weapons facilitator and financier for a terrorist group associated with AQI. Reports suggest the suspected terrorist, who surrendered himself to forces during the operation, has connections to AQI senior leaders. One additional suspect was detained for additional questioning. http://dr15.ahp.dr1.us.army.mil/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23862&Itemid=21

AWESOME!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gif

[Loyal American]

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Ohio Guard Closes Communications Gap in Afghanistan

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11.19.2008 at 03:54PM

CAMP ARIFJAN, Kuwait - The Ohio Army National Guard's 37th Infantry Brigade Combat Team is making its presence felt in three key areas of Central Command: Kuwait, Iraq and now Afghanistan.

About 40 Soldiers from the brigade have been called in to set up Joint Node Network communications in Afghanistan.

"It's a very important, high-priority mission," said Col. Richard T. Curry, the brigade commander. "The Soldiers who were selected were selected because of their unique skill set and the training they have accomplished over the last year."

Currently, the infrastructure cannot support consistent, reliable communications in Afghanistan and hasn't for quite some time.

Weather and other environmental issues also are wreaking havoc with the systems presently in use.

"Right now, they are not able to call in medical support the way we do in other theatres," Curry said. "There is a communications gap up there. The biggest part of what we will be able to do is fill in that gap and by doing that, I absolutely believe we will be able to save lives in that theatre of operations."

The JNN system will provide the infrastructure for the entire Afghanistan theatre with regular internet, secure phones, secure internet and voice teleconferencing capabilities, which has never been done before in Afghanistan.

"It comes down to the Army has a need. When there's a need, our Soldiers answer," said Capt. Walter Work, the Task Force Dragon Blade commander. "We were called to serve and help out our fellow Soldiers who are hurting as far as communication assets go."

During three months of mobilization training at Fort Hood, Texas, the signal Soldiers of the 37th exceeded the expectations of their instructors.

"We have proven ourselves," Work said. "The Soldiers we selected to go are the best of the best. We are honored and definitely taking our 'A' team to Afghanistan."

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/130006.jpg
http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26550

OHIO GUARD ROCKS, THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gif

[Loyal American]

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Afghan National Security Forces, Coalition Forces Capture Insurgent Leader in Khost Province
11.20.2008 at 04:25AM
KABUL, Afghanistan – Afghan national security forces and coalition forces detained Hakim Jan, a key insurgent leader in an early morning raid in Seyyed Khel village, Khost province, Nov. 19.

Jan is responsible for the deaths of ANSF members and improvised-explosive device attacks on coalition forces.

“ANSF members continue to search for those individuals that do not have the best interest of the people of Afghan at heart,” said Gen. Mohammed Azimi, chief spokesperson for the Afghan ministry of defense.

The combined forces conducted the raid with minimal impact to the detainee or surrounding populace. Jan was detained within minutes of the combined forces entering his residence. No shots were fired.http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26566

Pakistan Supports International Security Assistance Force After Cross-border Attack
11.20.2008 at 01:29AM
KABUL, Afghanistan — International Security Assistance Force has coordinated actions with the Pakistani military after insurgents fired rockets from Pakistan and hit a remote ISAF combat outpost and a nearby Afghan border checkpoint in Paktika province Nov. 18.

The ISAF outpost and the Afghan checkpoint each were hit with two artillery rounds. After the attacks, ISAF contacted the Pakistani military for support. The Pakistani military then launched a mortar strike on the insurgents’ firing location inside Pakistan.

There have been no reports of ISAF or Pakistani military casualties.http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26562

Afghan National Security Forces, Coalition Forces Treat More Than 100 People in Helmand Province
11.20.2008 at 04:22AM
KABUL, Afghanistan – Afghan national security forces and coalition forces medical personnel provided treatment for 114 Afghan villagers in Nar Surkh district, Helmand province, Nov. 18.

The medical professionals provided treatment for men, women and children for multiple ailments, including aches and pains, lacerations, dehydration and varying illnesses. The personnel also distributed much needed cold weather clothing to the people as they left the clinic.

“This is another example of how ANSF are working to provide security and meet the needs of the Afghan people,” said Gen. Mohammed Azimi, chief spokesperson for the Afghan ministry of defense. http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26565

Afghan National Security Force, International Security Assistance Force Soldiers Provide Supplies to Village
11.20.2008 at 01:26AM
KABUL, Afghanistan — A joint Afghan National Security Force and International Security Assistance Force operation helped Afghan people Nov. 17 in Kala village, Qalat district, Zabul.

During Operation Mountain Spring, ANSF and ISAF soldiers met with village elders and distributed food and clothes.

The children received bags of school supplies, which had been donated by the Romanian organization “Save the Children.” Families also received food supplies, blankets and winter clothes. This operation was a step in preparing the villages for the forthcoming winter months.

Major Ovidiu Pop, commander of the 30th Mountain Battalion “Dragoslavele,” welcomed the opportunity to help the Afghans in the village.

“It is very good to have the joint forces here to help our people,” said Haji Bismillah, Kala village leader. “We are supporting of the Afghan government, the ANSF and ISAF because they provide stability and security in our village.”http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26561

OUTSTANDING!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gif

[Loyal American]

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Coalition forces identify terrorist killed November 11 (Baghdad)
Thursday, 20 November 2008
BAGHDAD – Coalition forces have positively identified a terrorist killed in an operation November 11 in Baghdad as Hajji Hammadi, an Iraqi national also known as Hammadi Awdah Abd Farhan and Abd-al-Salam Ahmad Abdallah al-Janabi.

Hammadi was affiliated with al-Qaeda in Iraq since its inception and assumed his role as the AQI “emir” of Karmah and Abu-Ghraib areas west of Baghdad in 2004. He is assessed to have connections with the country’s legacy al-Qaeda leadership, to include AQI founder Abu Musab al-Zarqawi and the terrorist group’s current leaders.

In his position as a regional AQI leader, Hammadi was responsible for planning and conducting multiple attacks on Coalition forces, Iraqi Police, Iraqi government officials and Iraqi citizens. These attacks were carried out as suicide and car bombings, kidnappings, executions and assassinations.

Hammadi was the mastermind behind a June 26, 2008 attack on Coalition forces and Iraqi government officials in Al Anbar province. One of his operatives, disguised in an Iraqi Police uniform, detonated a suicide vest in Karmah, about 40 km west of Baghdad, during the city’s weekly Sheikh’s meeting. This attack killed three U.S. Marines, two interpreters and more than 20 Iraqis, including the mayor of Karmah and several other Sheikhs.
Hammadi escorted the suicide bomber to the location and videotaped the attack.

“Hajji Hammadi’s existence centered on terrorizing Iraqi citizens,” said Brig. Gen. David Perkins, Multi-National Force-Iraq spokesman. “His cowardly attacks against Coalition and Iraqi forces and government officials demonstrated his flagrant disregard for the peaceful nation the Iraqi people seek to build.”

Additionally, Hammadi has been linked to multiple assassinations on Sons of Iraq members in the Baghdad area. Reports indicate Hammadi plotted the Sept. 7, 2008, murder of a SOI lieutenant in the Shurtan village, about 26 km northeast of Baghdad. The lieutenant was reportedly assassinated for refusing to participate in AQI activities. A second SOI lieutenant was the victim of a Hammadi-planned assassination on Oct. 24, 2008, near Karmah, about 40 km west of Baghdad.

Hammadi’s history of terrorist activity includes the abduction and murder of a U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Matt Maupin in 2004. Staff Sgt. Maupin was assigned to the 724th Transportation Co., U.S. Army Reserve. Hammadi also led a group of fighters against Coalition forces in the second battle of Fallujah in the fall of that year.

On November 11, 2008, Coalition forces were led to a residence in Baghdad’s Mansour neighborhood where Hammadi was believed to be located. Ground forces immediately received small arms fire as they entered the building. The Soldiers then returned fire, killing Hammadi and another armed terrorist. Soldiers then provided life-saving medical treatment to one of the armed suspects injured during the fight. He and four other suspects believed to be associates of Hammadi were detained during the operation.

“The removal of Hajji Hammadi from the AQI network is yet another significant blow to the terrorist organization,” Brig. Gen. Perkins said. “His death and the detention of his associates is bringing the people of Iraq one step closer to a safer, more peaceful Iraq.” http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23863&Itemid=128

ANOTHER NASTY MAJOR SLIME DIRTBAG OUT OF COMMISSION, SWEET JOB TROOPS! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gif

AND YOU DID IT ON VETERAN'S DAY TOO! HOOAH!!! :flag:

[Loyal American]

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Ziyad Kareem, whose restaurant in Baghdad was destroyed by a car bomb, thanks Army Capt. Patrick Soule for a microgrant at Combat Outpost Apache, Iraq, Nov. 18, 2008. U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Jerry Saslav

Grants Help Iraqi Business Owners Recover from Attack

COMBAT OUTPOST APACHE, Iraq, Nov. 19, 2008 – Iraqi restaurant owner Ziyad Kareem was talking to his chef in the kitchen on the morning of Nov. 10 when a car bomb exploded in Baghdad’s Adhamiyah district.

Two of his customers and one of his workers were killed in the attack, Kareem said.

Two other civilians were killed and 37 injured that day. Kareem’s restaurant was one of the businesses destroyed; many others were damaged.

Kareem, along with other business owners affected by the attack, requested a microgrant from Multinational Division Baghdad here yesterday to help them rebuild their businesses. The microgrant program, funded by coalition forces, provides up to $5,000 to local businesses in need.

“If we can help the businesses get back to normal, return a sense of normalcy to the population and help them get back on their feet after these cowards come and blew up their businesses, … it will help improve the security here in Adhamiyah and progress here in Baghdad,” said Army Capt. Patrick Soule, commander of the 10th Mountain Division’s Company D, 2nd Battalion, 4th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team.

For 13 years, Abu Ahmed owned and operated a restaurant near Kareem’s and employed 15 people. His restaurant also was destroyed by the blast. Ahmed said he intends to use the grant to help him rebuild his business.

“I have to,” Ahmed said. “It’s the only job [I have] to feed my family.”

Ahmed’s parents’ house also was damaged in the attack.

“This attack, the terrorists did it. They destroyed our country, our people,” Ahmed said. “The people work hard to make some money for his family.”

When it was Kareem’s turn to sign the paperwork, he was visibly grateful.

“[We] understand that you guys didn’t have to do that,” said Kareem, shaking Soule’s hand. “We appreciate it,”

http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=52015

DON'T LET THE DIRTBAGS GET YOU DOWN, REBUILD THOSE RESTAURANTS AND CARRY ON!!! GOOD LUCK AND BEST WISHES FOR MAXIMUM SUCCESS!!!

[Loyal American]

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Iraqi Soldiers send aid to California fire victims

Thursday, 20 November 2008

BESMAYA RANGE COMPLEX, Iraq - A group of Iraqi Soldiers stepped up to help California residents victimized by recent wildfires raging throughout the state.

Iraqi Army Col. Abbas Fadhil, Besmaya Range Complex commander, and his team of “Abbas’ Eagles” raised $500 for wildfire relief.

“We want to send a message to the American president and the American people,” said Abbas. “We feel that we are a family—one body. When one part of the body suffers, the other parts suffer too.”

This is the fourth donation the Soldiers of Besmaya have sent to the American people recently. In September, they raised $1500 for victims of hurricanes Gustav and Ike. The Eagles also donated $500 to the National September 11th Memorial.


http://dr15.ahp.dr1.us.army.mil/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23878&Itemid=21


GOD BLESS AND THANK YOU ABBAS EAGLES!!!

[AEOakley]

This episode features stories on Marines preparing Iraqi Police to take over responsibility for their area, a Marine giving a class on first aid, and a Marine on duty as a gate guard. Provided by Regimental Combat Team 1.

:clap: :flag: :clap:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BEjQSUXBVF0

[Loyal American]

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Currahee Troops Search for Weapons

11.20.2008 at 10:32AM

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BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan – In the early stages of winter in Afghanistan, creeks begin to freeze as the temperature continues to drop. Everything and everyone seems to slow down and hibernate for the cold weather. The Soldiers with Alpha Company, 2nd Battalion, 506th Infantry Regiment, won’t hibernate this winter.

Early, before the sunrise on Nov. 12, many of these Soldiers awose to feel the air crisp in their lungs as they prepared to set out on a foot patrol, while others loaded up in vehicles to patrol local villages.

The combined operation consisted of U.S. Soldiers, Afghan national army soldiers and Afghan national police who searched mountainsides and local villages for weapons caches suspected to be hidden deep within the mountains of Paktika province, Afghanistan.

“The [combined] operations work much better now than they did in the past,” said 1st Sgt. Darrin Yuhn, Embedded Training Team command sergeant major and mentor to the 203rd Kandak. “The Afghan forces are a lot more involved with the planning of operations.”

Whether it is a routine patrol or a weapons cache search, US and Afghan forces are increasingly working together to halt the violence that has haunted Afghanistan for over 30 years.

Read more, CLICK on photo:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/130174.jpg (http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26576)

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gif

[Loyal American]

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SWAT units capture 4 terrorist suspects, weapons cache in northern Iraq (Balad)
Thursday, 20 November 2008
BALAD, Iraq – Iraqi Security, and Coalition forces, captured four suspected al-Qaeda in Iraq and Islamic State of Iraq terrorists during separate operations in northern Iraq Nov. 14-15.

Tal Afar Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) captured an ISI cell leader in the Biaj area Nov. 15. This alleged terrorist is suspected of conducting murder and intimidation operations, as well as providing financial and logistical support to elements in the area.

“SWAT was able to capitalize on recent training and refine their capabilities during this operation,” said the operation commander.
The capture of this suspected terrorist will disrupt AQI/ISI activities in the Ninewa Province.

In a separate operation to further disrupt ISI activities, Mosul SWAT captured two suspected terrorists in Nimrut. This Nov. 14 operation targeted a sniper cell in an effort to disrupt ISI leadership and operational capability in Ninewa.

“This operation demonstrated an improvement in the speed and flexibility of the Mosul SWAT,” the operation commander said.

“They continue to execute missions as a disciplined fighting force with a clear understanding of the rules of engagement and how to apply it in different situations … This mission successfully removed one member and the primary weapon from an ISI sniper cell that actively targets Coalition forces in Mosul.”

This operation also led to the discovery of a small weapons cache containing a rifle, AK-47s, and loaded AK-47 magazines.

In an unrelated operation Nov. 14, Tikrit SWAT detained a suspected terrorist in Samarra to disrupt the AQI network in the area.

“(This detention) demonstrates that Tikrit is not a safe haven for insurgents to conduct their activities or bed down,” said an operation commander.

This series of operations is directed toward thwarting criminal and terrorist activities as the Government of Iraq demonstrates a determination to bring those operating outside the law to justice. http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23869&Itemid=128

Two ISI/AQI members self-detonate during operation in northern Iraq (Balad)
Thursday, 20 November 2008
BALAD, Iraq – Two Al Qaeda in Iraq and Islamic State of Iraq members wearing suicide vests self-detonated during an Iraqi Special Operations and Coalition forces operation Nov. 16.

The suspected terrorists died during an ISOF operation to disrupt AQI/ISI activities in the Diyala province.

Both of the assailants detonated their suicide vests approximately 100 meters from the ground force. “No one from ISOF or CF was hurt during this operation. http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23867&Itemid=128

GREAT JOB!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gif

[Loyal American]

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University Medical College Opens in Ramadi

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RAMADI — Officials at al Anbar University held a ceremony commemorating the addition of its Medical College here, Nov. 13.

During heavy fighting, many of Iraq’s physicians fled to neighboring countries in hopes of finding better business opportunities. Ramadi officials and Coalition forces are hoping the opening of the medical college fills the void that was left.


“Iraq’s healthcare system is suffering from a severe shortage of physicians, as many physicians fled to Syria, Saudi Arabia and Jordan during the war,” said 1st Lt. Emily Grant, the embedded Provincial Reconstruction Team Ramadi LNO. “This re-opening will not solve the current lack of physicians but it will help to increase the number of physicians down the line.”

The college is a six year institution, with students entering medical school immediately following high school. Upon graduation, students receive their doctorate in medicine.

“Education is always important and if we can help the people become educated, it will lead to a better life for them and Ramadi,” said 1st Lt. David Gilliland, officer in charge of Civil Affairs Group, 2nd Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 1.
Officials are also hoping the college brings Ramadi one step closer to breaking away from the Iraqi insurgency.

“The teachers will give experience to the younger generations of Iraqis and they aren’t scared to anymore,” said Dr. Khalil Ibrahim Abudiyabi, president of the university. “When terrorism first came into the region, their first target was al AnbarUniversity. They don’t want educated people, they want ignorant people and attacking the university helped that. Now, we are educating the students against terrorism so that they know that it is not what we want here.”

The completion of the medical college and other projects in Ramadi have assisted in strengthening the relationship between Coalition forces and Iraqi citizens.

“We want Ramadi to have a better picture for the future and opening institutions like this one is essential,” said Karieem Arak, the chief of the North Provincial Council. “Ramadi has been changed a lot by Coalition forces and we want them to keep going and help us make Ramadi more beautiful. We are very happy with the relationship between the city of Ramadi and Coalition forces. We want to thank them for their continued help and support.”

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23872&Itemid=128

GRRREAT!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gif

[Loyal American]

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Regional Command-West Holds First Journalism Course for Local Press

11.21.2008 at 04:38AM

KABUL, Afghanistan — International Security Assistance Force’s Regional Command-West recently held the first course for local journalists with the help of the Italian defense staff.

Giampaolo Cadalanu, a journalist with Italy’s “la Repubblica,” guided the classes with the intent to improve the formation of journalism in Afghanistan.

Brigadier General Paolo Serra, RC-West commander, first mentioned the possibility of promoting journalism during an interview with an Afghan reporter soon after taking command in early October.

In addition to the course, ISAF’s Herat Provincial Reconstruction Team has supported the local press through improving their offices and providing furniture, computers, printers and scanners.

The goal is to help develop the Afghan society through the promotion of a free and democratic press.

http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26619

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gif..........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gif..........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gif..........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gif..........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gif

[Loyal American]

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Rashid Leaders, Multi-National Division-Baghdad Soldiers Prepare for Show

11.21.2008 at 01:48AM

FORWARD OPERATING BASE FALCON, Iraq – For the first time in a generation, an art and culture show will be hosted in the Rashid district of southern Baghdad Nov. 26.

Twenty renowned Iraqi artists, many of them professors at the Baghdad Art Institute, have agreed to participate in the Doura Art and Culture Show, “New Life, New Culture.”

The event’s organizer, Faruq Fu’ad Rafiq Hamdani of Baghdad’s Mansoor district, said he expects approximately 100 pieces of art including paintings, photographs, sculptures and conceptual art pieces to be displayed at the event.

“Southern Baghdad is not thought to be supportive of the arts,” explained Faruq, regarding the theme he personally selected. “Southern Baghdad has a reputation for violence, but this show will change that perception. This show will introduce a new way for the people of Iraq to live.”

Read more, CLICK on photo:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/130272.jpg (http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26619)

GREAT IDEA, GOOD LUCK WITH THE SHOW!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gif

[Loyal American]

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One killed, 3 arrested during ISOF operation in central Iraq (Ad Diwaniyah)
Friday, 21 November 2008
BALAD, Iraq – During an operation Nov. 19 in Ad Diwaniyah, Iraqi Special Operations Forces came under fire from an assailant on site, and returned fire, killing the gunman. Three suspected terrorists were also arrested in the operation.

The operation targeted a group of individuals under warrants issued by the Counter-Terrorism Bureau and Counter-Terrorism Center.

ISOF conducted the series of raids to capture the wanted individuals, with Coalition forces serving as combat advisors. The suspects will be processed into the Iraqi judicial system.

This operation was directed by the Government of Iraq in an effort to disrupt anti-Iraqi Forces activity in Ad Diwaniyah, and to enforce the Iraqi rule of law. http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23892&Itemid=21

SoI, tip from local citizen lead CF to weapons caches (Samarra)
Friday, 21 November 2008
TIKRIT, Iraq – A Sons of Iraq member led Iraqi Police and Coalition force Soldiers to a large weapons cache at approximately 2:20 p.m. Nov. 19 in Samarra.

A local citizen told the SoI about the cache, which contained 158 60 mm mortar rounds and six 155 mm artillery rounds. The tip helped take these deadly munitions out of the hands of terrorists.

The SoI member who led security forces to the cache survived a previous vehicle-borne improvised explosive device attack at his home in which his family was killed. This attack inspired him to work for Iraq’s future by providing security in his local area.

“He has been deeply wounded by an insurgent attack, and is willing to go as far as is required to work hand-in-hand with U.S. and Iraqi forces to protect the people of Samarra,” said Capt. Benjamin Boekestein, company commander for Charlie Company, 2nd Battalion, 35 Infantry, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division.

Another large cache, containing more than 215 munitions, was discovered by Iraqi special weapons and tactics team members at approximately 5 a.m. southwest of Mukayshfah in Salah ad Din province Nov. 20.

The cache contained three 120 mm rounds, 125 80 mm mortar rounds, 20 80 mm rounds, 25 82 mm rockets, six 20 mm antiaircraft rounds and four cone-shaped explosives.

Local citizens’ tips and Iraqi Security Forces have resulted in large numbers of cache discoveries in recent months. More than 30 caches have been discovered and safely disposed of during the month of November in Salah ad Din province. http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23891&Itemid=21

THANK YOU, AWESOME JOB!!!http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gif

[Loyal American]

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Coalition forces identify terrorist killed November 11 (Baghdad)
Thursday, 20 November 2008
http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23863&Itemid=128

ANOTHER NASTY MAJOR SLIME DIRTBAG OUT OF COMMISSION, SWEET JOB TROOPS! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gif

AND YOU DID IT ON VETERAN'S DAY TOO! HOOAH!!! :flag:

They have a good entry on the above at LWJ with additional insight and links within the text for those interested:

US forces kill al Qaeda in Iraq's leader in eastern Anbar

By Bill Roggio
November 20, 2008 8:41 PM

US forces killed another senior al Qaeda in Iraq leader (http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23863&Itemid=21) during counterterrorism raids in Iraq. Hajji Hammadi, an al Qaeda leader in eastern Anbar province, is the fourth senior al Qaeda leader killed in Iraq and neighboring Syria over the past six weeks.

Hammadi was killed by the hunter-killer teams of Task Force 88 on Nov. 11. The special operations forces killed Hammadi and an associate after a firefight broke out during an operation to capture him in Baghdad’s Mansour neighborhood.

CLICK on photo to read more:
http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/Hajji-Hammadi.jpg (http://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2008/11/us_forces_kill_al_qa_2.php)
Al Qaeda in Iraq leader Hajji Hammadi, killed by US forces on Nov. 11, 2008.

[Loyal American]

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Electronic Warfare Officers Keep Soldiers Safe

11.21.2008 at 01:32AM

CAMP STRIKER, Iraq – Navy Commander Ed Fischer and Air Force 1st Lt. E. J. Wong would seem to be out of place in an Army heavy brigade combat team conducting operations in Iraq.

Fischer, whose career field is nuclear engineering, and Wong, whose background is as an air battle manager, are both electronic warfare officers for the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division and play critical roles in ensuring the safety of Iron Brigade Soldiers.

“We maintain, field and upgrade the electronic countermeasures throughout the brigade” said Wong, from San Francisco, Calif.

The system that protects Soldiers from improvised explosive devices is known as the Warlock System.

Electronic warfare officers keep Soldiers safe by ensuring the equipment is maintained and working properly. The importance of this task is magnified by the constant threat of roadside bombs that take all.

CLICK on photo to read more:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/130271.jpg (http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26616)

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gif

[Loyal American]

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Soldiers First District Advisory Council Meeting Takes Him Back to U.S.

11.21.2008 at 07:43AM

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BAGHDAD – As I walked up to the building with a full complement of Soldiers in full body armor and weaponry, I am greeted by the Iraqi security forces guarding the facility where an upcoming district advisory council meeting is about to take place. I walked into the room. The initial Iraqi, I meet, seemed overjoyed to introduce me to all others in attendance.

I was actually there to introduce myself as the media coordinator for the new unit in town and offer my assistance to get the word out; on their behalf the progress they have coordinated by regularly meeting like this to identify necessary service improvements for their respective beladiyahs (government works agencies).

Everyone was extremely friendly to me and of course offered me the customary cup of hot Chi tea. Being the westerner I am, I immediately sought out the editor of the local publication who discussed what, I believed, would be key improvements to his publication. The gentleman then subtly reminded me of our unfamiliarity by getting me to discuss our families, as we got to know more about one another.
These people are just as our friends and neighbors back home. They are just trying to get back to a sense of normalcy. They may be frustrated with their situation, which most of the population had nothing to do with.

Witnessing this committee's interactions and knowing it as a weekly interaction made me proud to know that I, as a leader partnered with this coalition trying to assist the Iraqi government, am helping to bring a safe and secure environment for families represented in this meeting.

I’m proud to be a Soldier tasked to a simple mission statement – “help the Iraqi population help themselves.”

Read the full story, CLICK on photo:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/130336.jpg (http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26625)

AND WE ARE PROUD OF YOU AND YOUR MISSION TOO!
THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gif

[Loyal American]

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Combat Logistics Battalion - 3 Provides Convoy Security, Care to Afghan Women’s Clinic

11.21.2008 at 06:49AM

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CAMP HERO, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan – Marines and Sailors with Combat Logistics Battalion - 3 conducted their first convoy, providing security during a medical support mission to Camp Hero, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Nov.19.

A Navy medical team with CLB-3, and a medical officer with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron – 466, both assigned to Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force -Afghanistan, traveled with a CLB-3 security convoy to an Afghan regional military hospital to provide health care to Afghan woman.

Upon arrival, the medical team conducted check-ups, physicals and prescribed medication to more than 20 Afghan women.

“I think it’s important to show them we can provide other services than war fighting and that we’re here to provide medical care,” said Navy Lt. Evy Potochny, the medical officer for CLB-3. “Health care is universal and everyone can use it.”

Prior to departure, the convoy took all precautionary measures before exiting the gate.

“You never know what you’re going to encounter, but the platoon conducts rehearsals, mission plans and obtains intelligence on the route the convoy will be taking,” said Staff Sgt. Stephen Girouard, platoon sergeant for 1st Platoon, Motor Transportation Co.

Once the mission was complete, the Marines and Sailors convoyed home.

“It went well,” Girouard said. “Despite the dangers, the mission was a great success for the convoy and medical personnel. The Marines are anxious to go on their next mission and won’t let anything stand in their way to help the Afghan people.”

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/130330.jpg

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-22.gif

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thmilitary-supporttroops-3.jpg ...... http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/th1-3.gif

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/troopsgr7-1.gif

[Loyal American]

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New Courthouse Takes Shape, Bolsters Rule of Law in Babil

Friday, 21 November 2008

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BABIL — A new regional courthouse is taking shape to help Babil Province enforce the rule of law. The new $7 million facility is scheduled to be complete next spring.

“The Iraqi judiciary has a long and proud history going back before the founding of the country itself,” said Mark Robbins, Rule of Law advisor with the Babil Provincial Reconstruction Team.

“For the most part, the judiciary in Babil enjoys the respect of the people,” he said. “But many years of neglect under the previous regime has left it with a crumbling infrastructure and inadequate facilities to meet the rule of law needs of the local population.”

The construction of a new regional courthouse and upgrades to the previous facility have been complicated, Robbins said. But the PRT has remained committed to it. “We look forward to working with the Babil judiciary to ensure that it will soon work in a facility that better reflects the honor and respect of the Iraqi judiciary” he added.

Babil Resident Engineer Jun Morales with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers says the new 35,000 sq. ft. multi-story courthouse will consist of the main office building and adjoining service buildings (cafeteria, guard houses and bathrooms), two fountains, public and employee park areas.

“All buildings will have air conditioning, potable water and intercom systems. The older Al Hillah courthouse, the Municipal Court, will receive a facelift and security upgrades,” Morales said. Throughout Iraq, USACE has completed 55 courthouse projects with an additional 11 ongoing.

Babil, south of Baghdad, became the 12th of Iraq’s 18 provinces to take the lead for its own security operations in October. “The Regional Courthouse is an expansion of their judicial system and a symbol of a new phase within the government,” Morales added. “It’s a key institution in the community’s quest for law and order.”

This project is also creating jobs. Approximately 100 Iraqis are involved with the construction each day. Currently, nearly 100 judges and prosecutors, 175 employees, and almost 200 judicial police and security guards are working at the older Municipal Courthouse. Approximately 450 lawyers also use the existing facility. After the new courthouse complex opens, those numbers are eventually expected to increase.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23894&Itemid=128

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[free2B]

By the way,


How do we who sit at home and pray
Thank you guys and gals so far away
Who sacrifice family, friends, the U.S.A.
To fight for mom, apple pie, the American way

Ignore the dopes, they don't have much to say
Remember us, we're with you all the way
We’re here at night, and with you every day
God Bless our troops, they light the way

We think of you from Buzzards Bay
All the way to Turtle Cay
To Hawaii’s bright and beautiful Lei
Throughout the whole US of A

When skies look cloudy dark and gray
When times are tough and heck’s to pay
Just look above, come what may
Seek the Son’s bright glimmering ray

Y’all know us by our friendly Hey
If we were young we’d join the fray
Were proud of how you fight and stay
So our children can laugh and play

Swiftly win without delay
Let’s not join the old melee
Terror’s fear we say thee nay
We fight to win then go away

Life’s fun at home happy and gay
We have our choice of chick filet
Golden corral and dinner buffet
Steaks and chops just fill the tray.

Lets get back to you guys anyway
You’ve got your orders to obey
And lots more to do but that’s OK
Cause soon you’re here and where are they.


Thank You all for every day
You serve, we all say yay
God keep you safe we ever pray
You are the best I say today

Your Country Supports You
We’re Proud to Say
Until You Return, Hurray!
American Heroes All The Way


A Poem written several months ago and recently revised and extended by free2

[Loyal American]

THANK YOU, FREE!!! :flag::flag::flag:

[Loyal American]

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Forces dismantle terrorist bombing networks in Iraq, detain 16 suspects (Al Yusifiyah)
Saturday, 22 November 2008
BAGHDAD – Coalition forces further disrupted terrorist bombing networks throughout Iraq on Friday and Saturday, capturing three wanted men and detaining 13 suspected terrorists.

One suspected terrorist assessed to be a Baghdad/Fallujah-area al-Qaeda in Iraq car bomb and improvised explosive device cell member was captured Friday near Al Yusifiyah, about 35 km southwest of Baghdad. The wanted man, who reports suggest has connections with AQI leaders in the Baghdad area, was detained with three additional men believed to be his associates.

Friday near Bayji, about 160 km south of Mosul, forces captured a wanted man believed to plant IEDs targeting Coalition forces along roads in and around the city. Reports suggest the suspected terrorist also threatens Iraqis who cooperate with Coalition forces. One additional man was detained for further questioning during the operation.

An operation Saturday in Bayji also targeting terrorist bombing networks netted one wanted man believed to be an AQI IED cell leader in the region. Two more suspected terrorists were detained for further questioning.

Seven more suspects were detained by forces Saturday in Baghdad during an operation targeting a local AQI car bomb facilitator. http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23911&Itemid=128

MND-B Soldiers detain 6 alleged terrorists in Baghdad
Saturday, 22 November 2008
BAGHDAD – Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers detained six alleged terrorists in Baghdad’s Adhamiyah district at approximately 7 p.m. Nov. 21.

Soldiers serving with 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, conducted an operation designed to detain individuals suspected of crimes against the Iraqi people and the Iraqi Security and Coalition forces.

“The six al-Qaeda in Iraq operatives belong to an improvised-explosive device network in eastern Baghdad,” said Lt. Col. Steve Stover, spokesman, Multi-National Division – Baghdad and the 4th Infantry Division. “They are suspected of being responsible for two car bomb attacks in August that killed nine Iraqi civilians and wounded 13. Also, they are the prime suspects of the car bomb attack in Adhamiyah Nov. 10.”

The Soldiers also confiscated items, including five cell phones, two vehicles and a suitcase containing approximately 250,000 Iraqi dinars. http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23913&Itemid=128

NP, MND-B Soldiers seize weapons and munitions in Baghdad
Saturday, 22 November 2008
BAGHDAD – Iraqi National Police and Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers seized weapons and munitions in Baghdad Nov. 21 and 22.

Policemen serving with 2nd Battalion, 4th Brigade, 1st National Police Division discovered an anti-tank guided missile with a tube and timer in a field in New Baghdad at approximately 4 p.m. Nov 21. The weapon was turned over to Soldiers of 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division.

An Iraqi citizen in West Rashid turned in a cache of weapons to Soldiers serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 22nd Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, in West Rashid at approximately 10:20 p.m. Nov. 21. The cache contained a rocket-propelled grenade, two AK-47 magazines, a pineapple grenade, two fragmentary grenades and an unknown number of 5.56 mm rounds of ammunition.

Soldiers with 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division’s Task Force 1st Battalion, 6th Infantry Regiment, seized a cache in Sadr City at approximately 1 a.m. Nov. 22, based on a tip from an Iraqi citizen. The cache consisted of 21 82 mm mortars, a 107 mm high explosive rocket with fuse, seven 57 mm high-explosive projectiles, a 125 mm armor-piercing round, and 11 RPG launchers, a 70 mm rocket, three 85 mm rockets, a 37 mm fragmentary cartridge and two 23 mm fragmentary cartridges.

“Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers make a difference every day as they seize these dangerous weapons and remove them as a potential threat against the people of Iraq,” said Lt. Col. Steve Stover, spokesman, Multi-National Division – Baghdad and the 4th Infantry Division. “Along with the Iraqi Security Forces, they are committed to maintaining a safe environment for the people of Baghdad.” http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23914&Itemid=21

OUTSTANDING JOB!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gif

[Loyal American]

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Chemical Defense Exhibition Another Step Forward for Iraqi Chemical Corps

11.22.2008 at 04:10AM

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CAMP TAJI, Iraq – Until the Iraqi army established its Chemical Corps in 2007, Iraq’s military had been without a strong chemical defense program for years despite the potential threat of enemy chemical attacks.

Iraqi and coalition forces officials made another strong step forward regarding the IA’s chemical defenses when they organized and held a chemical detection and defense technology exposition at Camp Taji Nov. 18-19.

The showcase was held to aid Iraqi security forces officials in planning on how they will equip their corps with the best chemical defense systems and procedures available.

“As you know, chemical weapons have been around for a long time,” said Brig. Gen. Ali Kadim Muhasin Alsadi, commander of the Iraqi Chemical Corps. “Due to these types of threats, there is a need for preventative equipment to protect our troops.”

To confront this potential threat, Ali said Iraq’s ministry of defense approved a proposed budget of two billion Dinar to help purchase equipment for the newly developed chemical corps. The next step would be to plan for recurring training to ensure vitality in the chemical corps.

“We are raising our capabilities; we’re getting to know a lot for the future, and that will help a lot for our defense; we will be opening courses, which will continue to raise our capabilities,” Ali said.

CLICK on photo to read more:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/130460.jpg (http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26660)

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[Loyal American]

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Iraqi Widows Receive Food Bundles From Local Leaders

11.22.2008 at 04:51AM

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WAZERIYAH, Iraq – The Neighborhood Advisory Council of Wazeriyah provided food assistance to 60 Iraqi widows in Baghdad’s Adhamiyah district Nov. 19 while Multi-National Division –Baghdad Soldiers secured the area.

The widows arrived early in the morning and sat in the auditorium waiting for the NAC members to arrive. Atlal Karim, the women’s representative for Wazeriyah, addressed the assembled widows.

“Thank you all for coming. The Wazeriyah NAC is glad to support the widows of the area and will continue to support the widows in the future,” said Karim. “Everyone who came today has shown a desire for the betterment of our country and community”

Following Atlal’s speech, the widows filed outside to receive their food bundles; each bag contained rice, beans and canned goods. Each bag could feed a family of three for a few days.

As Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers from 1st Combined Arms Battalion, 68th Armor Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, assisted in lifting the food sacks out of the truck, the NAC members personally handed the food to each widow. School supplies were also distributed to children who came with their mothers.

Atlal thanked the Soldiers for their assistance.

“Thank you for helping me with my idea to help support the widows. I have many more ideas that I would like to share with you in the future to help these women,” said Atlal. “I am just excited for this initiative and the help [MND-B] have given.”

As the event wrapped up, Sheik Muhammad Adel the Imam, Al Ani Mosque and Wazeriyah NAC chairman, said that he was extremely pleased with how the drop occurred and the turnout of support.

A total of 180 bags were handed out to the widows; 60 food bags remained and were given to Atlal to distribute to the widows who were unable to make the function.

http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26662

THANK YOU, AWESOME!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gif

[Loyal American]

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Combined Forces Kill Insurgents, Save Civilians in Afghanistan
11.21.2008 at 03:57PM
WASHINGTON - Afghan army commandos and their coalition partners killed four militants while simultaneously protecting nearly 90 civilians in an early morning operation today in western Afghanistan, military officials reported.

The combined forces were conducting a raid on a compound, targeting a Taliban commander in Farah province's Dowlatabad village when they received fire from several enemy fighting positions. The combined forces quickly returned fire and also established a security perimeter to protect the civilians, who included 30 children, officials said.

The exchange of fire resulted in the deaths of four enemy fighters who local residents confirmed were Taliban militants.

During the search for more militants, commandos discovered a fully operational explosive device in a local mosque. Commandos removed the bomb and destroyed it. The detonation caused minor damage to the mosque's exterior wall, for which the commandos provided compensation to village elders. The operation also uncovered numerous small arms weapons and bomb-making materials.

No Afghan, coalition or civilian casualties resulted from the operation, officials said.

In other news from Afghanistan, Afghan and coalition forces killed 10 militants near Highway 1 in the Nahr Surkh district of Helmand province yesterday. The forces were conducting a security patrol when they were attacked by militants with small-arms and machine-gun fire. They returned fire, killing the 10 militants.

During the engagement, an Afghan soldier was shot in the back. He was treated on site and transported to a nearby Coalition medical facility. No other Afghan or coalition forces or civilians were injured during the engagement, officials said.

Also yesterday, Afghan and coalition forces killed four armed militants and detained eight others yesterday during an operation in Kapisa province in which an Afghan woman and child were injured when the insurgents used them as human shields, officials said.

In the Tagab district, coalition forces provided medical care to the Afghan woman and child, whom the forces believe lived with the militants. The two were injured when one of the militants detonated a hand grenade. They are recovering at a military hospital, officials said.

The operation targeted the Hizb-e-Islami Gulbuddin terrorist network, which is known to plan and coordinate attacks against civilians and coalition forces, including an attack in August that killed 10 French soldiers, officials said.

As the force attempted to search the compound, they received a large volume of small-arms fire and hand grenades from militants barricaded in a section of the compound. Coalition forces responded with small-arms fire and killed them.
A search of the compound revealed multiple AK-47 assault rifles, hand grenades and other military equipment, which were destroyed to prevent future use. The force detained three suspected militants as a result of the operation.

In Khowst province, Afghan and coalition forces captured a targeted Haqqani terrorist network operative and five other suspects during a combined operation in the Mandozai district. The wanted man is a suspect in roadside and suicide bombings, officials said. Troops searched the compound without incident.
http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26645

HOOAH!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gif

[Loyal American]

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Heightened Security Allows for Closer Friendships

11.22.2008 at 08:24AM

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SATTACK, Iraq – Iraqi security force and Marine efforts have facilitated a continued lull in violence and increased the opportunity for an Iraqi infrastructure in al Anbar province.

Lance Cpl. Roger Burda, a 25-year-old scout sniper from Daytona, Fla., with Mobile Assault Company, Task Force 1st Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 1, and other Marines in the unit took advantage of the area’s stability recently, visiting the Sattack Elementary School to spend time with Iraqi children.

Marines helped the children build wooden trains and bird houses using material donated by a Lowe’s Home Improvement store in his hometown.

Burda’s mother, who works at the store and spends volunteer hours building the same toys with American children, helped him arrange the donation.

“We’ve made really good rapport with the locals and I wanted to give the children something to lift their spirits,” explained Burda.

Burda planed the mission with 1st Sgt. Paul Costanzo, MAC first sergeant, who said everyone was very eager to take the toys to the children.

“The company is always looking for opportunities to help the community,” said Costanzo. “This was one of the better chances we’ve had.”

Burda said during his deployment last year to Iraq, humanitarian efforts were impossible because of the depleted security situation. Now security has improved allowing Marines to step back into an over-watch role, merely advising and assisting ISF where needed.

“Things are much different from past deployments,” Burda said. “[Some schools in the area] weren’t even open and the children had no place to learn.”

Burda said it is important that Iraq’s children understand he and other coalition forces are here to help.

“We are here to make a difference. The children are Iraq’s future,” Burda said.

The day spent with the children, added Burda, left him with a feeling of accomplishment that will last long past this deployment.

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http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26664

SOOOOOOO SWEET!!! :hug::hug::hug:

GOD BLESS AND THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gif

[Loyal American]

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Iraqi Police foil kidnapping attempt in Sha’ab
Saturday, 22 November 2008
SHA’AB, Iraq – Iraqi Police thwarted a kidnapping attempt in Adhamiyah’s Sha’ab neighborhood around noon, Nov. 22.

The police, from the Sha’ab station, witnessed four gunmen in a white van in the midst of a kidnapping attempt. The IPs engaged the men with small arms fire, injuring one man who was later detained.

The other three men escaped immediate capture and fled from the Iraqi Police and a Company E, 1st Combined Arms Battalion, 68th Armor Battalion, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Multi-National Division – Baghdad patrol that was dispatched to the area. Later, a second kidnapper was arrested following a tip from a local resident. The resident notified an Iraqi Police checkpoint of a criminal who had taken refuge inside his home.

The two men are currently in Iraqi Police custody pending further action. Iraqi Police along with the Iraqi Security and Coalition forces are on the lookout for the other two men. “This is a good thing for my police and right now they have responsibility for this country,” said Col. Hassan, commander of Sha’ab Iraqi Police. http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23922&Itemid=128

WOW, OUTSTANDING JOB!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gif

[Loyal American]

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Salman Pak Refurbished School Opens for Students

11.22.2008 at 02:08PM

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BAGHDAD – Wurwood Kindergarten School officially reopened its doors on Nov. 21 in the Rasheed neighborhood of Salman Pak after a two-month-long refurbishing period.

The school has 350 students enrolled, aged 4 to 5 years old, and six class rooms. Prior to the refurbishment, the school could only hold 60 students. The school employs eight teachers, a director and an assistant.

“The neighborhood families feel safe sending their kids to the school,” said Nawad Abid Alaziz, the school’s headmistress, adding that the refurbishment flows in synch with the improved security in the area.

Capt. William Richardson, the commander of Company C, Task Force 2nd Bn., 6th Inf. Regt., 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, Multi-National Division – Baghdad, along with his Soldiers, attended the building dedication ceremony. His unit assisted the Iraqi army, local sheiks and contractors in achieving their success at the school.

“The increased professionalism of the Iraqi army has made the area more secure,” Richardson said.

The brightly painted and orderly school contrasts to what the building’s condition was a short time ago. Much of the building had been hit by gunfire and was strewn with garbage.

Alaziz led Richardson, along with Iraqi army officers and local sheiks on a tour of the school.

Alaziz said she was pleased with the $80,000 refurbishment and that she watches television and sees American kindergarten schools and dreams of having schools like that in Iraq to educate their children.

“We need more rugs, a hot water heater, space heaters for the classrooms and more furniture,” Alaziz told the group.

Richardson said he felt improving education opportunities for the children requires efforts from all those involved.

“Yes, that’s very important because the kids are the future, and with the help of the IA, Sheiks and neighborhood, we can make the school better,” said Richardson.

CLICK on photo to finish story and see additional pictures:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/081123_sod_med.jpg (http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26671)

GRRREAT!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-14.gif

[Loyal American]

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CSI Iraq: Iraq Police Force Graduates First Experts in DNA Analysis
Saturday, 22 November 2008

BAGHDAD — Thirteen Iraqi Police reached a milestone Nov. 20 when they became the first graduates trained in DNA analysis in the history of Iraq.

This first group to complete the DNA Analysis and Theory course at the Ministry of Interior's (MoI) National ForensicsTraining Center was comprised of hand-selected college graduates with degrees in chemistry, biology or bio-chemistry and with experience as crime scene investigators.

"This training is wonderful for MoI and we look forward to putting this knowledge into action to help solve crimes," said one of the graduates. "We were trained with the latest technology and went into each subject in-depth."

Ted Smith, a DNA expert and former director of the West Virginia State Police Forensic Laboratory, conducted the training.

"I was amazed at how fast they learned. With the new equipment we are installing here they will have some of the most modern forensic laboratories," said Smith.

"There have been so many advancements in this field over the past 20 years. DNA analysis used to take three months to get results. Now the results can be obtained in three days."

Smith explained how the students trained in comparative and analytical disciplines that include fingerprint and document analysis, firearms and tool markings, chemical and toxicology analysis, and quality issues related to DNA analysis.

He went on to say these graduates will continue their training in operational practice and will later train others. They will then be assigned to operate police forensic laboratories throughout the country. The main National Forensic Training Institute will remain in Baghdad to train future forensic scientists.

The goal is to train at least 72 forensic scientists in Iraq to help support the Police and the judicial system in providing evidentiary information that will support the rule of law.

http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23918&Itemid=128

FANTASTIC!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-22.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-22.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-22.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/ththththafro-22.gif

[Loyal American]

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Engineers Move Forward With Operation Peace for Iraqi Children

11.22.2008 at 11:33AM

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BAGHDAD – Students of the Al Kifah Girls School in the Rusafa District of Baghdad received much needed school supplies, toys and clothing, Nov. 18, from Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers.

Lt. Col. Carlton Fisher, chaplain, 926th Engineer Brigade, Multi-National Division – Baghdad, Awatef Fadel, the school principal, and Mohamed Abd Al Rahman, mayor of Rusafa, coordinated the school supply donation. The entire 926th Engineer Brigade Family Readiness Group and Families had a hand in organizing the Al Kifah School donation.

“When I got in country, I discovered that several of us were soliciting donations from the 926th Family Readiness Groups, Soldiers’ families and churches and organizations back home,” said Fisher. “I got together with our chief of staff and Sgt. [Amy] Lehman.

“We consolidated our efforts into one mission entitled: "Operation Peace for Iraqi Children." We changed our priority to school supplies and focused on locating a specific school,” he added.

Fisher received clothing from various churches throughout Alabama, North Carolina, Georgia and Illinois. In addition to receiving supplies, 420 backpacks were donated.

CLICK on photo to read more and see additional pictures:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/130482.jpg (http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26669)
A citizen of Rusafa helps out the 926th Engineer Brigade Soldiers, Nov. 18, with his scooter at the Al Kifah girl’s school in the Rusafa District of Baghdad. He loaded the back trailer with school supplies while Soldiers stood guard. Students received backpacks full of school supplies, toys and candy. Along with school supplies students also received clothing items. The ages of the students ranged from 5-11 years old.

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gif

[Loyal American]

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Eight Haqqani Militants Detained in Paktika
11.23.2008 at 12:36AM
KABUL, Afghanistan – Coalition forces detained eight suspected militants, including the targeted individual, during an operation aimed at further decimating the Haqqani leadership in Paktika.

The force searched a compound in Orgun District, targeting a Haqqani commander known to plan and conduct attacks against local civilians, government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and coalition forces. Most recently, intelligence suggest these militants were planning attacks against innocent civilians who work for and with the government of Afghanistan and coalition forces in Paktika, Khost and Paktia provinces. http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26677

Multiple Improvised Explosive Device Finds Disrupt Insurgent Attacks After Joint Operation
11.23.2008 at 12:09AM
KABUL, Afghanistan — Afghan national security forces, in conjunction with International Security Assistance Force soldiers from 45 Commando Royal marines recently unearthed a range of explosive devices in the Sangin Valley area of Helmand province.

During an operation against enemy forces in the area, a combination of ANSF and ISAF soldiers uncovered a selection of improvised explosive devices, mines, detonators, explosives, pressure pads and grenades.

“This substantial set of finds significantly weakens the Taliban’s capacity to conduct attacks against civilians, Afghan national security forces and ISAF troops in the area,” said Brig. Gen. Richard Blanchette, ISAF spokesperson.

“This find also highlights the Taliban’s indiscriminate use of violence. Once planted, these devices pose even more of a threat to civilians who live in the area as they do to the security forces.”

The chief of police for Helmand province, Col. Sherzad said, “The Taliban use these explosive devices indiscriminately. These devices are killing and injuring civilians and they affect the lives of ordinary Afghan men, women and children.”

“The Afghan people must send a clear message to the enemies of Afghanistan that their extremist and violent ways will not succeed here. For their own safety and security, Afghans must inform the Afghan national police and Army where devices are being laid.” http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26676

Senior Taliban Commander Killed in Targeted International Security Assistance Force Operation
KABUL, Afghanistan — It has been confirmed this morning that a senior Taliban commander was killed by International Security Assistance Force forces during a targeted operation in Southern Helmand Nov. 19.

Mullah Asad died as a result of a successful operation by ISAF forces. Asad was a senior Taliban operational commander for Southern Helmand and was linked to numerous attacks in the Garmsir District. He also facilitated attacks against the Afghan security forces.

His death comes three weeks after another senior commander in Garmsir province, Mullah Mashar, was killed during a similar operation.

Brig. Gen. Richard Blanchette, ISAF spokesperson said “The death of Mullah Asad will have a significant effect on the Taliban’s ability to conduct operations.”

He continued, “These successes continue to undermine the Taliban’s ability to threaten the lives of ordinary Afghan civilians in Helmand province.”

“The enemies of Afghanistan, hiding in the shadows, should end their futile struggle and seek peace.” http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26673

International Security Assistance Force Soldiers Help Children in Deh Rawod, Oruzgan Province
11.22.2008 at 11:54PM
KABUL, Afghanistan — Following the sudden onset of wintery conditions in the Deh Rawod region of Oruzgan, International Security Assistance Force soldiers took advantage of recent donations to distribute warm clothing to local Afghan children.

“Every day, up to seventy children would come to the gate wearing clothes in poor condition that provided [very] limited protection from the harsh winter conditions,” said Capt. Michel of the Tarin Kowt Provincial Reconstruction Team.

Both ISAF and civilian personnel of the Oruzgan base were deeply moved by the noticeable poverty within the region and were glad to provide the much-needed clothing for the children, it having been donated by NATO nations.

‘'Some of the ISAF soldiers [remain primarily] on the base and don't have much contact with the Afghan population. The distribution of winter clothing gave them the opportunity to meet Afghan children, and I can assure you that most were deeply touched,” added Michel. http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26674

OUTSTANDING!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gif

[Loyal American]

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Coalition forces continue to target Asa’ib Ahl al-Haq criminals (Baghdad)
Sunday, 23 November 2008
BAGHDAD – Coalition forces struck another blow to the Asa’ib Ahl al-Haq network early Sunday morning with the capture of eight suspected network criminals in Baghdad.

Acting on intelligence information, Coalition forces targeted alleged Asa’ib Ahl al-Haq criminals in two separate operations.

During the first operation, Coalition forces apprehended three suspected criminals without incident in the Adhamiyah district. Five additional alleged Asa’ib Ahl al-Haq members were apprehended by Coalition forces at a second location in New Baghdad.

Asa’ib Ahl al-Haq is assessed to have engaged in numerous Explosively Formed Penetrator and Improvised Explosive Device attacks, as well as kidnappings, sectarian killings, and other heinous crimes that threaten Iraq’s future. Iraqi and Coalition forces are working together to prevent terrorists and criminals from endangering the Iraqi people. http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23928&Itemid=128

HOOAH!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gif

[Loyal American]

Read this one slowly, I hate this enemy! :evil:

Christmas Comes Early and Often for Those at Indira Gandhi Institute of Child Health

11.23.2008 at 05:30AM

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KABUL, Afghanistan - Children in the Indira Gandhi Institute of Child Health’s burn ward undergo a huge amount of suffering. In a place where their recovery includes flies swarming around open flesh and bandages often being reused, service members from International Security Assistance Force Headquarters regularly bring hope and smiles to the children’s faces through their gifts of medical supplies, crayons, stuffed animals – and themselves.

Many of the donated items come from the United States, while service members come from Great Britain, Germany, Turkey, Canada and others. The language is universal – love – and it’s spoken through the gift of a beanie baby or a game of Pictionary.

“The children are just really suffering, flies swarming all over their bodies,” said U.S. Navy Lt. Jessica Gandy of Milmay, N.J. “There are no screens on the doors or the windows. They really have nothing. The doctors just said to me today, ‘do you have any pens?’”

The hospital is the only pediatric hospital in all of Afghanistan. Its operating budget provided by the Afghan government is $400 a month. The 15 boxes of medical supplies brought by ISAF service members on Nov. 20 will help to bridge the gap between life and death.

“The conditions are horrible and the hospital is very dirty,” said United States Air Force Staff Sgt. Barbara Garcia of Los Angeles. “There are a lot of flies. The bandages are not sanitary; they are not sterile. I don’t think the medical attention here is what they need; a lot of them don’t make it.”

Some of the children’s burns are from improvised explosive devices put in place by the country’s enemies of peace. Some are from household kerosene lamps bursting in flames. And some come from a form of discipline - where diesel fuel, or hot water, is thrown on them.

“Faisal, he was there last time I came here, and he was very badly burned … to the point he could barely blink, he could barely speak,” said Garcia of a 6-year old boy she met at Indira Gandhi Institute of Child Health on Nov. 5. Faisal couldn’t move his arms, but Garcia drew pictures for him. He would say what they were in Dari, and she would repeat it. And then she would say what it was in English, and he would repeat it.

On Nov. 20 Garcia had the opportunity to see Faisal again when she came with ISAF volunteers and supplies.

“I came back this time, and in my heart, I really didn’t think he would be here. But he was, and he is amazingly better. He can move, and he was drawing, and we were playing with the slinky. It was just really awesome to see how well he’s doing.”

According to Abdul Wakil, an Afghan native who frequently visits the hospital with volunteers from ISAF, the gifts and presence of the international militaries are a positive reminder to the Afghan people that they are remembered, that people are uniting to help the Afghan government.

“This is really an encouragement to the people to see soldiers holding the babies on their shoulders and bringing a lot of stuff,” said Wakil. “People in the villages feel that they are forgotten. But when the troops come in the uniforms helping the kids, it’s just really encouraging to them.”

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/130524.jpg


http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26683

GOD GIVE OUR TROOPS AND CF VICTORY OVER THIS ENEMY! :pray:

GOD BLESS AND THANK YOU TROOPS!!!

[Loyal American]

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Afghan National Security Forces, Coalition Forces Kill 17 Militants in Kandahar
11.23.2008 at 06:15AM

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KABUL, Afghanistan – Afghan national security forces and coalition forces killed 17 insurgents during an air assault operation in Shah Wali Kot District, Kandahar province, Nov. 22.

ANSF and coalition forces conducted an air assault operation into a known insurgent ‘safe haven’ to interdict enemy supplies and personnel. Insurgents fired on ANSF and coalition forces with automatic weapons and rocket propelled grenades from multiple locations. ANSF and coalition forces returned fire with organic weapons and supporting fires on the insurgent fighting positions, killing 17 militants.

During the operation, several small weapons caches were discovered and destroyed on site. The caches contained ammunition and improvised explosive device making materials. No ANSF, coalition forces or civilian casualties were reported.

“The ANSF continue to successfully engage and defeat insurgent forces,” said Gen. Azimi, chief spokesperson for the Afghan Ministry of Defense. “They will not stop until all militant ‘safe havens’ are removed.”

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/130531.jpg
An Afghan commando puts a local woman and her child at ease as they conduct combat operations in Shah Wali Kot District, Kandahar province, Nov. 22. The Afghan national security forces and coalition forces secured the noncombatants and kept them safe before continuing on with their mission in a known insurgent ‘safe haven.’


http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26684

THANK YOU, FANTASTIC JOB!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gif

[Loyal American]

LWJ entry I forgot to post yesterday, it's very interesting BUT it has not been confirmed yet! Hope they got this guy!


Al Qaeda operative Rashid Rauf reported killed in North Waziristan strike
By Bill Roggio
November 22, 2008 8:41 AM

Today's early morning airstrike (http://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2008/11/us_hits_taliban_safe.php) by unmanned US Predator aircraft in Pakistan's Taliban-run North Waziristan tribal agency is said to have killed senior al Qaeda operative Rashid Rauf and another al Qaeda leader, according to unconfirmed reports from Pakistan.

Today's airstrike targeted a Taliban compound in the Ali Khel region just outside of Miramshah, the main town in the tribal agency. Five people have been reported killed, including three "foreigners" - a term reserved for al Qaeda - and six more were wounded. An Egyptian named Abu Zubair al Masri was also reported killed in the airstrike.

US intelligence has yet to confirm the death of Rauf or Zubair.
The US has stepped up its cross-border attacks in Pakistan this year. There have been 31 recorded cross-border attacks and attempts in Pakistan this year, according to numbers compiled by The Long War Journal. Twenty-four of these attacks took place since Aug. 31. There were only 10 strikes during 2006 and 2007 combined.

CLICK on photo to read more:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/al-qaeda-pakistan-rashid-rauf-2.jpg (http://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2008/11/al_qaeda_operative_r.php)
Rashid Rauf

[Loyal American]

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Coalition forces detain Katai’b Hezbollah suspects (Baghdad)
Sunday, 23 November 2008

BAGHDAD – Coalition forces apprehended six alleged Katai’b Hezbollah network criminals without incident during two operations early Sunday in Baghdad’s Adhamiyah district.

Acting on intelligence information, Coalition forces targeted an alleged Katai’b Hezbollah special operations group member believed to be responsible for attacks against Iraqi and Coalition forces. Coalition forces detained four suspected criminals in the first location.

During their search of a second location, Coalition forces apprehended two additional suspected criminals and also discovered two AK-47s, a shotgun, and several handguns. http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23929&Itemid=21


AND on the above topic, post 6892 and more from LWJ:

US forces capture 14 Iraqi Shia terrorists in Baghdad

By Bill Roggio
November 23, 2008 10:09 AM

US forces have stepped up operations against the Iranian-backed Shia terror groups operating in Baghdad after a relative lull in November. Fourteen operatives from the League of the Righteous and the Hezbollah Brigades were captured in Baghdad during raids today.

Coalition forces - likely the hunter-killer teams from Task Force 88 - captured (http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23928&Itemid=21) eight members of the League of the Righteous (Asaib Ahl al Haq) during two operations in Baghdad's Adhamiyah and New Baghdad districts early Sunday morning. Six Hezbollah Brigades operatives were captured (http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23929&Itemid=21) during two operations inside Adhamiyah.

Raids targeting the two Iranian-backed terror groups have been infrequent during the month of November. Only two other Hezbollah Brigades fighters were captured (http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23583&Itemid=21) during a Nov. 11 operation in Baghdad. Twenty-eight Hezbollah Brigades operatives were captured (http://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2008/10/iraqi_troops_find_ef.php) during multiple raids in October.

The League of the Righteous is splinter groups that broke away from Muqtada al Sadr's Mahdi Army after Sadr announced he would disband the Mahdi Army and form a small, secretive military arm to fight Coalition forces in June. Sadr's moves caused shockwaves in the Mahdi Army, as some of the militia's leaders wished to continue the fight against US forces in Baghdad and in southern and central Iraq.

The League of the Righteous receives funding, training, weapons, and direction from Iran's Qods Force, the country's secretive special operations group that backs terror groups such as Lebanese Hezbollah. The League of the Righteous conducts attacks with the deadly, armor-piercing explosively formed projectiles, or EFPs, as well as the more conventional roads bombs.

Read more, CLICK on photo:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/Hezbollah-brigades-logo.jpg (http://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2008/11/us_forces_capture_14.php)

[Loyal American]

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Iraqi Police, Baghdad Soldiers Provide Humanitarian Aid to Those Needing Assistance in 9 Nissan

11.23.2008 at 08:34AM

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FORWARD OPERATING BASE RUSTAMIYAH, Iraq – Iraqi police officers and Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers attached to 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, teamed up to distribute humanitarian aid to those who needed the assistance in eastern Baghdad, Nov 20.

The IP and Soldiers from Company A, 1st Battalion, 66th Armor Regiment, 1st Brigade combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, attached to 4th BCT, 10th Mtn. Div., met in the morning to load two trucks: one of humanitarian-aid packages and the other with bottled water.

They headed to one of the poorest areas of the 9 Nissan District to hand out the goods. Each package contained rice, sugar and canned-food items packed in yellow knapsacks.

When the convoy arrived, the streets filled with men, women and children eager to greet the police and Soldiers, who distributed the knapsacks in less than half an hour, noted 1st Lt. Eric Chapman, a platoon leader for Company A, from Killeen, Texas. The Soldiers provided security as the IP officers distributed the aid packages and water to the people.

CLICK on photo to read more:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/130540.jpg (http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26686)

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gif

[AEOakley]

Here's a link to a video story (four minutes in length) about unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) being used by coalition forces. (Provided by American Forces Network Afghanistan.)

:clap:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rTLtxF7favI

[Loyal American]

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Taliban Roadside Bomb Network Takes Hit; Coalition Forces Kill Seven Militants
11.23.2008 at 10:23PM
KABUL, Afghanistan – Coalition forces killed seven armed Taliban fighters during an operation to disrupt the Taliban’s roadside bomb and foreign fighter networks in Ghazni province on Nov. 23.

In Qarbagh District, coalition forces targeted one of the province’s senior Taliban commanders responsible for coordinating and directing roadside bombs, suicide and other attacks against innocent civilians, GIRoA and coalition forces in the region. Intelligence also suggests the commander facilitates the movement of foreign fighters, weapons and bomb making materials into Ghazni.

As the force reached the targeted building, they gave precise directions for all individuals inside the compound to surrender and exit. Adhering to the command, one woman and two children exited the building peacefully. As the force attempted to safeguard the woman and children, they were besieged by small-arms fire and hand grenades from militants barricaded inside the compound. While moving the woman and children into a safe location, the force returned fire killing the seven armed militants inside.

A search of the compound revealed multiple PKM machine guns, AK-47s, grenades, and roadside bomb making materials, including fertilizer. These items were destroyed to prevent future use. This find further highlights the Taliban’s indiscriminate use of violence. Once planted, these devices pose even more of a threat to civilians who live in the area than they do to the security forces.

The woman and children were returned safely to their home following the operation. http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26695

AMAZING JOB, TROOPS, THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gif

[Loyal American]

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Afghan National Army Senior Enlisted Host 4th Sergeants Major of the Army Seminar

11.24.2008 at 04:16AM

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KABUL, Afghanistan — Countless years of military experience were represented at the Kabul Military Training Center’s auditorium as members of coalition forces and the Afghan national army kicked off the ANA Sergeants Major of the Army seminar Nov. 17-19. The event showcased the current development of the ANA bridmal (non-commissioned officers).

“Pieces of equipment, assets and training are important, but what really is important is the ANA’s ability to take on the fight,” said Maj. Gen. Robert W. Cone, Combined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan commanding general. “With the ANA taking on two-thirds of the fight, the growth of the ANA is important.”

The development of the ANA bridmal and “Shaping the future of the ANA” were principal themes of the seminar. More than 100 ANA and coalition sergeants major attended.

“This conference is important because it gives us the opportunity to discuss what works best,” said Sgt. Maj. of the Army Kenneth Preston. “Building a strong NCO corps, like in any other army, is the backbone of its army. Sergeants major’s job is to provide the best training possible for their soldiers.”

During the seminar, ANA command sergeants major showcased examples of the precision training being conducted for their fighting forces.

CLICK on photo to read more:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/130718.jpg (http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26702)

GREAT!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gif

[Loyal American]

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Terrorist networks degraded with capture of 18 individuals
Monday, 24 November 2008
BAGHDAD – Coalition forces captured five suspected terrorists and detained 13 additional suspects during operations targeting al-Qaeda in Iraq around the country Sunday and Monday.

One suspected terrorist was captured during an operation Sunday in Baghdad. The targeted terrorist is believed to be a media operations leader. During a follow-on operation Monday in Baghdad targeting the wanted man’s network, one additional suspect was detained.

Monday in Ramadi, 100 km northwest of Baghdad, Coalition forces captured one suspected terrorist believed to have connections with regional terrorist leaders. Two additional suspects were detained as well.

An operation in Karmah, 41 km west of Baghdad, netted one wanted man as Coalition forces targeted terrorist leadership networks in that region.

Another operation in Karmah resulted in the capture of one wanted man and two additional suspects. The wanted man, who is believed to be involved with improvised explosive device attacks in the city, identified himself as the targeted terrorist and surrendered to Coalition forces.

The suspected terrorist identified another man at the scene of the operation as one of his associates and then led Coalition forces to a secondary location where he identified another of his associates.

A suspected terrorist assessed to be a Mosul-based AQI leader was captured Monday in Mosul along with one of his alleged associates.

In Baghdad, four men were detained during an operation targeting AQI’s IED and suicide vest cells.

Coalition forces detained three suspects Monday in Rawah, 212 km southwest of Mosul. The target of the operation was an individual believed to be involved with foreign terrorist facilitation networks. http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23945&Itemid=128

18 MORE SLIME DIRTBAGS OFF THE STREETS! :clap:

HOOAH!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gif

[Loyal American]

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/5UO733CAA1676FCA74OLUJCA4CSD6QCAIBA.jpg
Nangarhar PRT Brings New Power to Afghan Village

11.24.2008 at 09:38AM

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BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan – Members of the Nangarhar Provincial Reconstruction Team celebrated newly installed electric transformer with the residents of Qasaba village during a ribbon-cutting ceremony Nov. 22.

The $35,000 project was funded by the PRT and will provide a more constant power source to more than 3,000 people in the small village outside the team’s base near Jalalabad.

“This was a great project to be a part of because it allows us to directly help the people who live near us,” said Air Force Capt. Lisa Leon, lead engineer for the PRT. “It lets us return some of the hospitality that has been shown to us so far."

The village only had limited access to electricity prior to the project, but the new transformer will allow the villagers to power their shops, machinery and homes.

“[The PRT] did a good job on this transformer and the people are really appreciative for the help,” said Ataullah, a young Qasaba villager, during the ceremony.

The increased power is especially helpful for the young people of the village because they now have more power for educational and recreational items like computers, televisions and radios, said Ataulla.

Helping improve the Afghan people’s lives is what the PRT’s mission is all about, Leon said.

“The village had unreliable power before, but now they can flip a switch and know that the lights will work,” Leon said. “That's the impact the Afghan government and PRT are working toward here, and I am so happy I could be a part of this."

http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26720

FANTASTIC JOB!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gif

HOOAH, THE LIGHTS ARE ON AND THE COMPUTER IS WORKIN' TOO!!! :D

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/images-3.jpg ..... http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/images-3.jpg ..... http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/images-3.jpg

[Loyal American]

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Iraqi National Police Strive to Serve, Protect

11.24.2008 at 05:59AM

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FORWARD OPERATING BASE FALCON, Iraq — The Iraqi national police, dedicated to enforcing Baghdad’s rule of law, introduced civil capacity and municipality improvement to their skills set working with the support of Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers.

As the situation in the Rashid District continues to progress towards tolerance and tranquility, the role of his national police element should adjust accordingly, said Col. Kadhem Jabar Kadhem, commander of the 2nd Battalion, 7th Brigade, 2nd National Police Div., based in southern Baghdad.

A Civil Affairs Team from Company D, 404th Civil Affairs Battalion, attached to the 1st Special Troops Battalion, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, sponsored the Iraqi team, consisting of a lieutenant and two privates from the 2nd Bn., 7th Iraqi NP Bde.

Capt. Chris Carbone and Sgt. 1st Class Aleksandr Restrepo, head of the Civil Affairs Team assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 4th Infantry Regiment, attached to the 1st BCT, 4th Inf. Div., lead the program in Baghdad’s Doura community.

Carbone, a U.S. Army Reservist, who is also a police officer from Wayne, N.J., has served two previous tours in Iraq as an infantry officer. He recently completed training and gained practical experience as a civil affairs officer during his current deployment.

“There is more to being a cop than arresting people,” Carbone told the freshly formed Iraqi NP CA Team during a partnered patrol Nov. 20. “You have to work towards the betterment of your community.”

The Iraqis nodded their heads, excited to put to use the skills they recently acquired during the two-day lecture series on providing assistance to infrastructure repair and municipality support.

CLICK on photo to read more:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/130729.jpg (http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26707)

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gif..........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gif..........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gif..........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gif..........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gif

[ALcard]

Glad to see this thread continues to flourish :)

[Loyal American]

Glad to see this thread continues to flourish :)
Good morning from Deutschland, ALcard! :angel:

Our troops ROCK!!! :cool:

Here's some more good news! :D


http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/xinsrc_1cbea4e76f754cafa9b8b9f25-1.jpg

‘Sons of Iraq’ continues shift to Iraqi control

Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition, Tuesday, November 25, 2008


Now that virtually all "Sons of Iraq" groups in Baghdad have been shifted to Iraqi government control, such groups in the rest of the country will follow suit, officials say.

The transition, marked by a change in members’ pay from U.S. dollars to Iraqi dinars, is scheduled to be completed across the country by June, a critical time for the country.
Under a security pact being debated by Iraqi lawmakers, U.S. troops would withdraw from cities and towns by June 30 and work out of bases.

The armed civilian groups have been praised for helping calm down violence in the country, but some members have maintained Iraqi security forces have not accepted them.
As of last Wednesday, 24,810 of the 26,000 "Sons of Iraq" in Baghdad have been paid by the Iraq government. There were a few problems with pay, including the lack of extra pay for "Sons of Iraq" leaders, but those are being taken care of, according to a news release issued by Multi–National Division—Baghdad.

Diyala, Babil, Wasit and Qadisyah provinces are next, making the transfer in January, Col. Bill J. Buckner, a spokesman with Multi–National Corps—Iraq, said in an e-mail message.

Anbar province will do it in February, Ninevah and Kirkuk in March, and Salahaddin in April, he said.

Some "Sons of Iraq" members are being trained for jobs in the Iraqi security forces.


http://www.stripes.com/article.asp?section=104&article=59042

I certainly worried a great deal over what would happen to the SOI and DOI. When you figure the majority are Sunni this is a very big deal!

For those who missed the very first PAYDAY's, see these links for story and great photos:

http://forums.hannity.com/showpost.php?p=42377211&postcount=6799

http://forums.hannity.com/showpost.php?p=42401501&postcount=6800

http://forums.hannity.com/showpost.php?p=42485021&postcount=6808

[Loyal American]

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7 suspected criminals arrested in central Iraq
Tuesday, 25 November 2008
BALAD, Iraq – Iraqi Security Forces, with Coalition forces advisors, arrested seven suspected criminals during operations in central Iraq Nov. 20-21.

A reported Special Groups leader and two others were arrested Nov. 21 in Al Qurna during an Iraqi Special Operations Forces operation. The suspected SG leader has allegedly worked with Iranian intelligence for three years and helped smuggle weapons, money and information into Iraq to facilitate SG activities.

In a separate operation, Iraqi Army soldiers, operating under the authority of a Diwaniyah judicial warrant, arrested a suspected criminal who reportedly was trained conduct assassinations of ranking ISF officials. In an unrelated operation in Hashimiyah, an Al Hillah Special Weapons and Tactics team, acting on a warrant issued by the Ministry of the Interior, arrested another suspected criminal during a raid to disrupt criminal operations in Babil province.

On Nov. 20 ISOF captured another suspected criminal during an operation in West Rashid, Baghdad.

In an unrelated operation, an Al Hillah SWAT team detained another suspected SG member in Hayy Askari. This suspected criminal is believed to have ties to transporting weapons, kidnapping and improvised explosive attacks against ISF. http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23960&Itemid=128

Iraqi Security Forces seize weapons caches, capture 2 suspected terrorists in northern Iraq
Tuesday, 25 November 2008
BALAD, Iraq – Iraqi Security Forces (ISF), with Coalition force advisors, captured two suspected al-Qaeda in Iraq/Islamic State of Iraq terrorist and seized a weapons cache during separate operations in northern Iraq on Nov 20-21.

Iraqi Army (IA) soldiers captured a suspected AQI/ISI terrorist during a raid Nov. 21 in Al Zirai. This operation targeted terrorist leadership and operational capability in Ninewa province. The detained individual was suspected of facilitating foreign fighters, displaced insurgents and equipment moving through Mosul.

In a separate operation, the IA detained an alleged AQI Foreign Fighter Facilitator in the Farhatiya area Nov. 20.

In an unrelated operation, on Nov. 20, Mandali Special Weapons and Tactics Teams (SWAT) discovered a weapons cache in the Mahmoud Salman Dahash Village. The cache contained a variety of improvised explosive device making materials. http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23959&Itemid=128

GREAT JOB!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gif

[Loyal American]

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/thththththth02paper-28-1-15.gif
Coalition Forces Disrupt Two Terrorist Networks in Eastern Afghanistan
11.25.2008 at 05:43AM
KABUL, Afghanistan – Coalition forces killed six armed militants and detained 12 suspected militants during operations Nov. 24 to disrupt the Hizb-e-Islami Gulbuddin and Haqqani terrorist networks in Kapisa and Paktika provinces.

An operation in Tagab District, Kapisa province, targeted an HIG commander known to traffic large-scale weapons used to conduct attacks in the region against civilians, Afghan national security forces and coalition forces. Intelligence also indicated the commander planned and coordinated recent attacks in the area that have killed and injured civilians, ANSF and coalition forces.

During the operation in Tagab, coalition forces received small-arms fire from multiple armed militants attempting to maneuver on coalition forces. Coalition forces responded with small-arms fire, killing five militants.

A search of the compound found AK-47s and other military style equipment which were destroyed to prevent future use. Coalition forces detained seven suspected militants. They also provided protection for 11 women and 18 children during the operation.

In Ziruk District, Paktika province, coalition forces killed one armed militant and detained five suspected militants during an operation targeting a known Haqqani subcommander who is believed to facilitate the movement of weapons and foreign fighters into the region.

As coalition forces entered the targeted building, they were immediately engaged by an armed militant. Coalition forces responded with small-arms fire, killing him. Another militant was found holding an explosive device detonator in his hand, but he decided to surrender.

“Coalition forces are continuing operations against the terrorists who want to prevent Afghanistan from achieving the peaceful progress its people want,” said Col. Jerry O’Hara, spokesman for U.S. Forces Afghanistan. “At the same time, we will take every step to protect innocent civilians during our operations, just as we did yesterday in Tagab.” http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26763

OUTSTANDING!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gif

[Loyal American]

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Coalition forces kill two terrorists, capture nine
Tuesday, 25 November 2008
BAGHDAD – During multiple operations targeting al-Qaeda in Iraq on Monday and Tuesday, Coalition forces dealt significant blows to the terrorist organization by killing two terrorists, capturing one wanted man and detaining eight suspects.

Coalition forces struck AQI’s foreign terrorist facilitation network Monday, killing two terrorists during an operation near Rawah, 212 km southwest of Mosul. As the assault force approached a vehicle believed to be occupied by a man assessed to move foreign operatives into Iraq, two armed men exited the vehicle and engaged the Soldiers with small arms fire. Coalition forces, acting in self defense, returned fire, killing the men. It was determined after the operation that one of the dead terrorists was the wanted man. A subsequent search of the vehicle yielded multiple rifles, three rocket-propelled grenade rounds, 12 grenades and a suicide vest.

AQI leadership was the target of an operation Monday in Bayji, about 160 km south of Mosul. There, Coalition forces captured a wanted man assessed to be the leader of a terrorist cell in the city.

Also Monday, two suspects believed to be associated with an AQI car bomb cell leader were detained in Tikrit, about 160 km north of Baghdad.

Improvised explosive device and car bomb cells were also degraded during an operation in Mosul on Tuesday, which netted two men believed to be associated with the city’s car bomb and IED network leader.

Coalition forces continued to disrupt AQI leadership networks around the country Tuesday. In Baghdad, forces detained two men during an operation targeting AQI senior leadership.

In Tikrit, about 160 km north of Baghdad, forces detained two men believed to be associates of a senior courier in AQI’s Diyala network. http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23964&Itemid=21

IA, MND-B Soldiers seize weapons, munitions in Baghdad
Tuesday, 25 November 2008
BAGHDAD – Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers seized weapons and munitions in Baghdad Nov. 24.

Soldiers from Company A, 2nd Squadron of the 14th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, seized a weapons cache at approximately 11:45 a.m., northwest of Baghdad.

The cache consisted of a 120 mm mortar round, 19 60 mm mortar rounds, an empty 60 mm mortar round, two anti-aircraft guns, an AA weapon mount, two AA barrels and a tripod.

At approximately 12:15 p.m., Iraqi Army soldiers seized a munitions cache in the Salman Village north of Baghdad. The munitions included a 152 mm high-explosive projectile, a 130 mm HE projectile, a 120 mm HE projectile and a blasting cap. The munitions were transported to Camp Taji by an MND-B explosive ordnance detachment.

“Removing these weapons and munitions from the hands of extremists serves to safeguard the Iraqi people,” said Lt. Col. Steve Stover, spokesman, MND-B and the 4th Infantry Division. “Our forces remain committed to providing a safe haven for the people as their lives return to a sense of normalcy.” http://www.cjtf7.army.mil/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23963&Itemid=128

WOW, AWESOME JOB!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-15.gif

[Loyal American]

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Why I Serve: 1st Sgt. Believes American Soldier Represents Goodness in Many Lives

11.25.2008 at 08:41AM

CAMP TAJI, Iraq – For one Multi-National Division – Baghdad senior enlisted Soldier, serving as an American Soldier represents the only goodness a lot of people around the world will ever know.

1st Sgt. Albert Rodriguez, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 4th Battalion, 4th Aviation Regiment, Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, is proud of what he and his Soldiers personify around the world.

“For a lot of people in the world, American Soldiers are the only goodness a lot of people will ever know; the only bible a lot of people will never read; and the only example of America and freedom a lot of people will ever see,” said the Oxnard, Calif., native currently on his second deployment to Iraq.

“I am proud to serve, because as a member of the U.S. Army, I am part of a long line of Soldiers who have fought and died for our freedom,” he said. “In particular, I have had two uncles who gave their lives during World War II and the Vietnam conflict.

“When I reflect on what their experiences must have been like, I immediately appreciate all that is good in my life. I believe all Soldiers should be proud of who they are and what they are doing, regardless of their job. They have all sacrificed so much for our country and our freedom.”

CLICK on 1st Sgt Rodriguez photo to read more:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/131321.jpg (http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26770)

THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththththAmericanFlag-Animated--13.gif

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/Coin1.gif

[Loyal American]

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/thththththAmericanFlag-Animated--13.gif
Distinguished Service Cross Recipient Chooses a Third Iraq Deployment

11.25.2008 at 02:12PM


CAMP TAJI, Iraq – He served in Iraq twice before. He was awarded a Distinguished Service Cross for his actions as a squad leader here. He didn’t have to come back.

But Sgt. 1st Class Timothy Nein is back, on his third deployment in Iraq, his fourth overseas this decade. The first was in Bosnia and Herzegovina in 2001.

Only the Medal of Honor trumps the DSC among awards for valor in battle. Nein was the first Guard member to receive the award and only the fourth service member during the Operation Iraqi Freedom.

The DSC was an upgrade from the Silver Star Medal that Nein was originally awarded for his actions as a squad leader with the Kentucky National Guard’s 617th Military Police Company during a March 20, 2005, ambush.

Nein and the National Guard’s Sgt. Leigh Ann Hester – the first woman awarded the Silver Star for direct combat action against an enemy – led a counterattack that saw 27 insurgents killed, seven captured and no deaths in their unit. Two Soldiers were wounded.

Nein still leads in Iraq, where he’s now serving with the Kentucky National Guard’s 223rd Military Police Company.

Five years of change

"I probably didn't have to be here this time, but I don't think that I would have missed it," Nein said. “I feel honored to be a part of this.”

This time, he is a platoon sergeant providing escorts for the 18th Military Police Brigade’s Iraqi Police Transitional Team.

Nein has seen five years of change firsthand. He first deployed here with the initial liberation force in 2003. He was back in 2005.

“I’ve seen a huge difference from 2005 to where we are now,” he said. “I can remember thinking in 2005, looking back at 2003, how much different it was.

“I can’t believe we’ve come as far as we have as far as getting their economy going. The violence is down greatly. It’s unbelievable how much different it is. They have come in five years in the democracy that they have what took us 232 years to get to.

“That’s what I don’t think people see – the great life that we live in the United States.

People look at that and think that it’s always been that way. It wasn’t. Forty, 50 years ago we were still fighting the civil rights movement. We have fought for 232 years to get to where we’re at. Yet in five years [Iraqis] have gone from a dictatorship to the ability to vote for who they want.”
There are two more sections to this, ya gotta read it, CLICK on SFC Nein's photo:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/131356.jpg (http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26790)

SFC NEIN, WE ARE GLAD YOU LOVE WHAT YOU DO AND WE ARE FOREVER GRATEFUL YOU CHOSE TO CONTINUE DOING IT TOO!

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/photos%202/Coin1.gif

[Loyal American]

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‘Ace High’ Soldiers Strike Gold During Cache Sweep

11.26.2008 at 12:29AM

JOINT SECURITY STATION SHEIK AMIR, Iraq – Soldiers from Troop A “Ace High,” 2nd Squadron, 14th Cavalry Regiment “Strykehorse,” 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team “Warrior,” 25th Infantry Division, Multi-National Division-Baghdad, conducted a cache sweep in Dhabtiya, a village northwest of Baghdad, Nov. 24-25.

The two-day operation resulted in eleven cache finds.

Platoons from Ace High Troop, with the help of approximately 50 Sons of Iraq (Abna al Iraq) and Iraqi army soldiers conducted a deliberate east-to-west search along the north side of the Grand Canal Nov. 24. The search initially turned up an unknown type rocket and a 60mm mortar. An ensuing search resulted in four additional separate caches. The cache find was expected, but the size and contents of some of these caches were surprising.

“The size of the heavy weapons caches was not what we had expected,” said Capt. Matt Clark, commander, Ace High Troop, who is a native of Tucson, Ariz. “The discovery of the SA-13 missile [Strella] pod was definitely not something we had envisioned in the beginning.”

The first cache consisted of two AK-47s with magazines, an FAL rifle with magazines, three DSHKA barrels, a hand grenade, 100 meters of time fuse, a SA7 anti-aircraft missile, 120 links of 7.62mm rounds, a .30-caliber machine gun, four Italian anti-tank mines and a 120mm mortar tube.

The second cache consisted of four 155mm artillery rounds, five 130mm rockets with serviceable warheads and two 130mm rocket warheads. The third cache contained a 155mm artillery round and three 105mm projectiles.

The items found in the fourth cache were unserviceable due to corrosion and was much older than the other three. Items found were a flare pistol, four mortar bipods, five .50-caliber machine gun receivers, 10 12.7mm HMG receivers, 30 HMG barrels of various types and calibers with one being unknown, and a light machine gun receiver.

Read more, CLICK on photo:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/131472.jpg (http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26809)

OUR TROOPS, IA AND SOI SNATCHIN' UP THE DIRTBAG CACHES! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gif

AND WE SO LOVE IT WHEN THAT HAPPENS!!! :D:clap::cool::dance:

[Loyal American]

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Coalition Forces Keep the Heat on Terrorist Networks
11.25.2008 at 11:03PM
KABUL, Afghanistan – Coalition forces killed ten armed militants, and detained four suspected militants during operations to thwart the Taliban and Haqqani terrorist networks in Paktia and Paktika provinces, Nov. 25.

The operation in Paktia province targeted a senior Taliban commander in the Zormat district – believed to act as a liaison between the al Qaida and Taliban terrorist networks, assisting with the movement of foreign fighters into Afghanistan. During the operation coalition forces were engaged by small-arms fire from multiple militants, some of whom where barricaded inside the compound. Coalition forces returned fire to protect the force and other innocent civilians in the vicinity. Five armed militants were killed during the operation.

In Sabori district, coalition forces killed five armed militants and detained four suspected militants in an operation that targeted a Haqqani sub-commander. The targeted militant is responsible for planning and conducting attacks against coalition forces in the region. Intelligence suggests this militant also facilitates the movement of weapons and supplies used by terrorist to conduct attacks against innocent civilians, GIRoA and coalition forces.

As the force approached the targeted compound they received small-arms fire from two armed militants attempting to maneuver on the force. Coalition forces returned fire, killing both. The force then received small-arms fire from militants inside the compound. Adhering to coalition procedures, designed to protect innocent civilians inside the building, the force called for all individuals to exit the building and surrender. Eight women and eleven children exited the building unharmed and were moved to a safe location. Continuing to receive fire from inside the building, the force engaged the militants with small-arms fire killing three additional militants. A search of the building revealed multiple weapons.

“We continue to disrupt terrorist networks, stemming the flow of weapons and supplies that are used against innocent Afghan civilians,” said Col. Jerry O’Hara, spokesperson for U.S. Forces Afghanistan.
http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26803

HOOAH!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gif

[Loyal American]

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Blackjack Soldiers Reopen Pool, Enrich Neighborhood

11.26.2008 at 02:18AM

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BAGHDAD – In many American communities, the neighborhood pool is a place to meet up with friends and have some fun while trying to beat the hot summer days.

In the spirit of summer, though a little after the season, the citizens of the Ameriyah neighborhood of northwest Baghdad received a welcome gift when they reopened the Ameriyah pool Nov. 22.

The pool has been closed since 2003. According to Shihad Ahmed Abdullah, the lead contractor for the project, the area has seen a number of terrorist attacks and the pool itself has been vandalized and stripped of all necessary resources to maintain a functioning pool.

The fortunes of the neighborhood pool took a drastic turn for the best when Soldiers from the 4th Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, which is based out of Fort Carson, and operationally attached to the 2nd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, made renovating the pool one of its top priorities.

“It’s really about working together with the community,” said Capt. Kelly Lanphere, 4-10th Cav. fire support officer. “We pooled our resources together to work with the local community and local government to reopen this pool and now, today, we are reopening the Ameriyah pool.”

The reconstruction project did not just call for the pool to be rebuilt but also the pool house in the complex which added a new air-conditioning system.

“This is another place where people can come and enjoy themselves,” said Shihad Ahmed Abdullah. “Thanks to the air-conditioning system, local citizens can now host computer training, catered events as well as wedding parties.”

With improved security and the quality of life on the rise in Baghdad, Blackjack Soldiers said they knew they had a golden opportunity to provide a boost to the morale of the local citizens and they took full advantage of the chance.

“I think this pool’s great; it’s a great project,” said Lanphere. “More than anything, it represents hope. Ameriyah was a very bad place for a long time, and today is really a sign of hope of things to come.”

Once the ribbons were cut, children from the community had the chance to take a quick dip into the pool. Although the cold of November was in the air, the warming sense of pride in their new pool could be seen all over their faces and that sense of pride was shared by the Soldiers of 4-10th Cav.

“We’re making progress one day at a time,” said Lanphere. “All the projects we’re doing, they’re making an impact for the people.”

http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26812

SWEET JOB BLACKJACK TROOPS, THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gif

HAVE LOTS OF FUN, KIDS, BUT BUT BUT IT IS NOVEMBER!!! :lol:

[Loyal American]

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/turkey_icon.gif First Thanksgiving post from our troops this year!!! :D

Strikers Prepare for Thanksgiving in Northeastern Baghdad

11.26.2008 at 12:27AM

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FORWARD OPERATING BASE WAR EAGLE, Iraq – Soldiers from the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, Multi-National Division – Baghdad, will enjoy a feast of fresh turkey with all the fixings this Thanksgiving holiday.

Three months ago, food service technicians and officers began planning for this celebration to ensure that every Soldier operating in their area was provided with a traditional Thanksgiving meal Nov. 27 – they have succeeded.

Warrant Officer Darryl Goddard, a food service officer with 3rd BCT, 4th Inf. Div., who has been planning the Thanksgiving dinner at Forward Operating Base War Eagle, is ready for the challenge of feeding the more than 300 Soldiers there.

“I am ensuring that Soldiers at FOB War Eagle and 4th Inf. Div. are supported with a little taste of home … and I am working diligently to ensure they get the necessary feeling of home here in Iraq while in Iraq,” said the Norfolk, Va., native.

That taste of home includes more than 800 pounds of fresh turkey, which will be prepared and fixed at the larger dining facilities and then pushed out to the smaller combat outposts and joint security stations.

“Every Soldier will get a good Thanksgiving dinner based upon patrol schedule,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Daniel Dailey, a Palmerton, Pa., native, who serves as the senior enlisted leader for the 3rd BCT, 4th Inf. Div. “It will be a continuous operation throughout the day.”

But turkey is not the only traditional food being served to the troops this holiday season. Sweet potato pie, apple cobbler and Baskin Robin’s ice cream are just a few other treats to accompany the feast.

“I feel that it is important from a biblical standpoint and a moral standpoint for Soldiers on the battlefield be able to be comfortable and enjoy the Thanksgiving tradition that has been going on for centuries,” said Goddard.

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http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26808

HAPPY THANKSGIVING TROOPS, YOU GIVE US ALL SO MUCH TO BE PROUD OF AND THANKFUL FOR EVERY DAY OF THE YEAR! WE HOPE EVERYONE OF YOU GET TO HAVE A THANKSGIVING DINNER!!! THERE ARE A LOT OF THOUGHTS, PRAYERS AND LOVE COMIN' YOUR WAY FROM A GRATEFUL AMERICA!!! :flag:

[Loyal American]

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Coalition Forces Clear a Known Improvised Explosvie Device Command Node in Kandahar
11.26.2008 at 03:38AM
KABUL, Afghanistan – Coalition forces killed 15 militants, and detained six suspected militants during an early morning raid in Anizai, Zhari district, Kandahar province, Nov. 26.

Coalition forces were clearing a compound known to be an improvised explosive device command and control node when they were fired upon. Coalition forces returned fire with small arms weapons killing 15 insurgents and detained six.

“We will continue to support the Afghan people by seeking and disrupting militant networks,” said Col. Jerry O’Hara, U.S. Forces Afghanistan spokesperson.

No coalition forces or civilian casualties were reported.http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26814

CF DISRUPTING DIRTBAG ACTIVITIES AGAIN!!! :D

CARRY ON TROOPS, OUTSTANDING JOB!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gif

[Loyal American]

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297th Transfer Company Supports Signal Co. Redeployment

11.26.2008 at 06:34AM

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CAMP TAJI, Iraq – The Centralized Receiving and Shipping Point, or CRSP, is run by the 297th Inland Cargo Transfer Company, 398th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 1st Sustainment Brigade. The 297th ICTC have been supporting Signal Company’s movement throughout the deployment. The CRSP yard supports movement of goods in and out of Camp Taji.

Signal Company, Special Troops Battalion, 1st Sustainment Brigade has been working with the 297th ICTC since the beginning of the deployment.

“We’ve used them to send our equipment to other FOB’s several times and all those times the CRSP yard has been crucial in our mission’s success. Everything from personal equipment to mission equipment has been sent through, and everything made it to their destinations with no issues,” said Sgt. 1st Class Clifton Norrid from Alvarado, Texas, a platoon sergeant with Signal Co. “During a communications support mission, we had to deploy to another FOB within 72 hours. This was the first time that we had to coordinate movement of equipment from one FOB to another. We were concerned that our equipment would get damaged or lost along the way, but the CRSP yard had a concrete procedure that was easy to follow.”

“Many of the Soldiers of the 297th came right out and offered their assistance. They made it incredibly easy for us to deploy and meet our timeline. Their flexibility and willingness to work with us was refreshing and is very much appreciated,” said Sgt. Frank Giger from Kansas City, Mo., command post node team chief with Signal Co. "During our redeployment we sent numerous container inserts through the CRSP yard in order to successfully redeploy our Soldiers back to the states. The CRSP yard helped us burn Radio Frequency Identification tags and coordinate transportation for our redeployment containers to Kuwait. Through the use of the CRSP yard, Signal Company was able to successfully conduct combat support operations through the duration of the deployment."

http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26820

GREAT JOB, THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gif

[Loyal American]

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/thththththth02paper-28-1-16.gif ..... Cool story AND there is a fellow HOOSIER in the mix too! ;) He's the one holding the tray up at the big table, I love our Guard!!! :hug:

1538th Transportation Company Soldier Serve Up a Piece of History

11.26.2008 at 08:00AM

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CAMP TAJI, Iraq – The Iraqi army opened a new chapter in its history recently with the beginning of the Iraqi army’s first Sergeants Major Academy. The course brought together Iraq’s most senior non-commissioned officers from around the country and around the services at the beginning of November for a 24-day session.

Three 1st Sustainment Brigade Soldiers assigned to the Cantigny Dining Facility on Camp Taji were given the honor of serving the dinner and being witness to this historic event. Spc. Johnny Trinidad, of Elkhart, Indiana, along with Sgt. Gerald Medford, from Rocky Mount, N.C., and Spc. Jennifer Hoopes, a Corvallis, Oregon native, all donned cook whites to serve up a meal of lamb, chicken and fish to the gathering of nearly a hundred.

Trinidad and Hoopes are food service specialists assigned to the 1538th Transportation Company, and 991st Trans. Co., respectively, and are both members of the 165th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion. Medford currently serves with the Headquarters and Headquarters Company of the 1st Sustainment Brigade.

When struck by the historical nature of the event he was witnessing, Trinidad, remarked, “I’ll never see anything like this again. I had no idea really what the event was when I was chosen to participate.” Trinidad was struck by what many called a momentous event, and what it meant for the future of the Iraqi army. “I’m honored to be part of something like this.”

The class was composed of the senior non-commissioned officer from each division of the Iraqi army as well as the Iraqi air force, Iraqi special forces and the Iraqi national police. This meeting of minds brought together combat arms, military police, logistics and training center specialties in an effort to not only convey to Iraqi forces a better understanding of the role of the sergeant major, but also to open a dialog across the divisions of the Iraqi government.

Each sergeant major was hand-picked by their division commander to attend the inaugural course at the Taji Regional Training Center in order to provide feedback to improve and grow the academy’s program of instruction. The group also included many of the instructors and support personnel from the academy. The instructors come from across coalition forces representing NATO, and the dinner included sergeants major from the Czech Republic, U.S. Army, and U.S. Marine Corps.

After the meal many of the course attendees, as well as, visiting dignitaries, including the commander of the Taji RTC, Iraqi Gen. Barhar and Gen. Adnan, requested pictures with Hoopes, Medford and Trinidad.

Among the students for the course was Command Sgt. Maj. Adel, the senior NCO of all Iraqi ground forces, who also posed for pictures with fellow attendees, as well as, their American maitre d'. “I didn’t realize that this event was going to be such a big deal,” said Hoopes, who was in great demand for pictures by many of the Iraqis present.

Command Sgt. Maj. William High of the Coalition Army Training Team, the activity of Multi-National Security Transition Command - Iraq responsible for equipping, manning and training at eleven bases across Iraq, said that this event came about sooner than imagined. “Because of the surge and the settling of the country’s security situation, we were able to bring them together for this course. In fact, it was due to much persistence by the Iraqi sergeants major in this room.” In time, High added, the course will grow from 24-days to three months, eventually becoming a six-month course. The improved security situation in Iraq is enabling growth in training, with the first Iraqi marines to begin training in the southern part of the country at the end of this year. High and other sergeants major envision the development of service academies within Iraq in the future. Trinidad remarked, “This is the beginning of something big for the Iraqis.”

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http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26825

HOOAH! HOOPES, MEDFORD AND TRINIDAD GET THE JOB DONE RIGHT! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gif

YA JUST GOTTA LOVE OUR TROOPS!!!

[Loyal American]

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Internal Training Key to Iraqi Air Force Independence

11.26.2008 at 09:55AM

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As the Iraqi parliament works out the details of the new Status of Forces Agreement that calls for American forces to withdraw from the country in 2011, Iraqi air force emergency responders from new al Muthana Air Base took the lead for the first time in a mass casualty response exercise, Nov. 21, as they learn how to operate independent of their American counterparts.

The exercise was the largest and most difficult to date for the fledgling air force which brought together firefighters, medical personnel, security forces, command and control, emergency management and safety elements for the first time in order to test their response abilities, as well as to develop an independent training and exercise capability.

“There have been several medical courses arranged and conducted by U.S. advisors,” said Capt. Sunny Holden, 321st Air Expeditionary Advisory Squadron medical advisor. “The challenge and purpose of this exercise was to continue developing the Iraqi air forces’ ability to plan and to conduct their own training and exercise program.”

American emergency responders from the 447th Air Expeditionary Group at Sather Air Base and training personnel from the 321st AEAS worked with Iraqi leaders to teach them how to develop exercise scenarios.

This mass casualty exercise was the first of its size and scope, adding a training element the Iraqis have not experienced thus far—real people playing the role of the wounded.

CLICK on photo to read more and see several other images:

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http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gif..........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gif..........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gif..........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gif.........http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gif

[Loyal American]

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Twins Proudly Serve, Defend Iraq

11.26.2008 at 09:45AM

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JOINT SECURITY STATION UR, Iraq – They stand an imposing presence in a sparsely decorated containerized housing unit. That image grows more ominous as they don their protective gear for another mission.

Then, just as quickly as the fear crept in, it’s gone. One simple gesture eases all nervousness: a smile. And that smile fills the room.

For Pvts. Kareem and Munir Khameel Obid, who both stand nearly six-and-a-half feet tall and weigh more than 225 pounds, serving in the Iraqi army is a chance to protect the people they saw being victimized by terrorists.

“At that time, we hated [the terrorists] because we saw them killing the innocent people without a reason,” said Kareem, who serves alongside his brother in the Iraqi Army’s 5th Company, 2nd Battalion, 44th Brigade, 11th Division. “We are very lucky because now we are working here against the [terrorists] and with the coalition forces.”

The brothers, who hail from al Hillah, worked various jobs following the invasion in 2003 before joining the Iraqi army earlier this year.

“I tried to join the Army before that but my parents wouldn’t let me because they were scared of the bad people,” Kareem said.

Now, after training together in Taji and working with coalition forces in Bayji, Kareem and Munir work as bodyguards for Capt. Sa’ad Khamel Abdul Sitar, their company commander.

“When we have any order, they do it without discussion,” Sa’ad said of the twins’ dedication to their duty.

The 5th Company is based out of Joint Security Station Ur in northeastern Baghdad and works to contain special groups in the Sadr City area.

“I like to do missions because I don’t like to sit around. I can’t stay here for a day. I need to go on missions every day,” said Munir.

The brothers both said they have seen progress in placating the violence that once plagued this part of the capital. They’re both hopeful for a bright future for the country they proudly call home.

“The situation in Iraq is getting better because the people on the streets are talking to us and they are approaching us,” Munir said. “They are honest with us. The situation in my country is getting better every day.”

Standing proudly next to each other, the brothers are nearly impossible to differentiate. Both flash the same bright smile and both have the same, fill a doorframe physique. Master Sgt. Nassar, the Soldiers’ enlisted leader, offers one suggestion.

“I have an order for them: somebody has to grow a mustache,” Nassar said.

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http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26828

BEST WISHES FOR MAXIMUM SUCCESS KAREEM AND MUNIR!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gif

[Loyal American]

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Forces target AQI bombing, leadership networks; 18 suspects in custody
Wednesday, 26 November 2008
BAGHDAD – Coalition forces further degraded al-Qaeda in Iraq on Tuesday and Wednesday, detaining 18 suspects during operations targeting the terrorist group’s bombing and leadership networks.

Coalition forces operation Tuesday in Qayarrah, about 60 km south of Mosul, captured one wanted man believed to be an AQI operative. Reports suggest the man was actively involved in planning a car bomb attack in Sharqat at the time of his capture. One additional suspect was detained for further questioning.

Forces continued to target AQI bombing networks Wednesday. Two alleged Bayji-based improvised explosive device facilitators were captured near Hadithah, about 211 km northwest of Baghdad. One of the wanted men surrendered himself to Coalition forces during the operation. Four additional suspects were also detained.

Another operation Wednesday in Baghdad netted two suspects believed to be associated with an AQI car bomb and IED operative in the city.

A wanted man assessed to be a Diyala AQI administrative operative and explosives facilitator was captured Wednesday in Tuz Khurmatu, about 70 km southeast of Kirkuk. The suspected terrorist, who reports suggest has connections to al-Qaeda operatives outside of Iraq, was detained with another man assessed to be his associate.

Coalition forces partnered with Iraqi forces during a Tuesday operation targeting AQI military leaders near Hawijah, 60 km southwest of Kirkuk. The forces captured one suspected terrorist believed to have connections to a Tamim AQI leader. One additional man was detained for further questioning.

Four suspects were detained by forces Wednesday near Ad Dawr, 136 km north of Baghdad, during an operation targeting a Sumarra-area terrorist cell leader. http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=24001&Itemid=128

Afghan National Security Forces, Coalition Forces Disrupt Militant Activities in Helmand
11.26.2008 at 11:05AM
KABUL, Afghanistan – Afghan national security forces and coalition forces killed seven militants today and uncovered three caches containing drugs and improvised explosive device-making materials during a clearing operation in Nahr Surkh District, Helmand province.

Militants fired on ANSF and coalition forces with machine gun and rocket propelled grenade fire.

ANSF and coalition forces responded with small arms and supporting fires, killing seven.

ANSF and coalition forces searched the area and found a cache of bombing-making materials that included control wire, metal and homemade explosives; a cache of 12 mortar rounds; and a cache of 175 pounds of opium, which was destroyed.

During the operation, the combined forces protected more than 300 local villagers from enemy fire.

No ANSF, coalition forces or civilian casualties have been reported.

“The bottom line is that joint operations like this save innocent Afghan lives as well as increase the capabilities of Afghan national security forces,” said Col. Jerry O’Hara, U.S. Forces Afghanistan spokesman. http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26831

AWESOME JOB!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gif

[Loyal American]

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News School Offers New Hope to Nablus Children

11.26.2008 at 09:33AM

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BAGHDAD – If knowledge is power and the pen is actually mightier than the sword, then the refurbishing and reopening of the Nablus school in the Yarmouk community of northwest Baghdad, Nov. 23, will serve to empower the children of Mansour with the skills necessary to improve their lives.

The refurbishing project, which is also underway in more than 200 schools in Baghdad, added six new rooms, a computer lab and a science lab in addition to the school’s auditorium being refurbished at no cost by the local contractor.

“The Nablus school should be the model that the other 220 schools currently under reconstruction follow,” said Dr. Nihad, Karkh District Deputy Minister of Education.

The government of Iraq has placed a high level of importance on the rebuilding and refurbishing of its educational systems, said Dr. Nihad. The Nablus school, along with the refurbishing, also received boxes full of paper, more than 350 backpacks and 100 informative Iraqi comic books, which were distributed by members of Iraqi security forces and the ministry of education.

It was also a marquee day for Soldiers of the 4th Battalion, 42nd Field Artillery Regiment, operationally attached to the 2nd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Multi National Division – Baghdad, who are responsible for security in the area.

“The refurbishing of this school gives hope to the elementary students in Yarmouk,” said 1st Lt. Nicholas Anderson, a civil military operations officer with 2nd Bn., 42nd FA Regt. “Furthermore, it demonstrates the concern for academics from the local leadership.”

During the event, students who will attend the refurbished school performed for the crowd. An Iraqi band provided entertainment as well. The entertainment brought a sense of normalcy, which serves as a reminder to the Soldiers who have worked so hard in recent moths to improve the standard of living for the people of Iraq.

The Soldiers know they are getting the job done in their operational environments, said Anderson, and they know also know that by empowering the Iraqis, they are making the transition that much easier.

“This was an outstanding Iraqi-led event,” he concluded.

http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26827

FANTASTIC!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gif

[Loyal American]

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Doors Open at Karmah Hospital

11.26.2008 at 03:48PM

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KARMAH, Iraq – Officials in Karmah opened the doors to a new hospital after years of planning and construction, recently.

A shortage in funding threatened to delay the opening of the Karmah Hospital, but Marines with Task Force 1st Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 1’s Civil Affairs Group, helped to facilitate final construction efforts.

Prior to the hospital opening, only a small under-manned, under-equipped clinic served the entire Karmah region’s 40,000 citizens, requiring people to travel to Fallujah for anything beyond basic healthcare.

“It was just a health clinic before,” said Sgt. Andrew Hodgdon, a 24-year-old operations chief from Houston, with CAG. “Now they have a modern hospital with top of the line equipment.”

The hospital will facilitate most general services and will include a dental clinic among other specialized service clinics. It will also house three ambulances to expedite medical emergencies

The hospital’s opening marks significant gains for the Karmah region, largely due to profound improvements in security. Citizens here have pulled together to thwart violence and insurgent activity.

“The level of progress is unbelievable,” Hodgdon said. “Finishing construction would have been impossible without [Karmah’s] help. They earned this hospital, and they definitely deserve it.”

The people of Karmah were more than enthusiastic to see the completion of a critical piece of infrastructure.

“It’s an excellent hospital,” said Basim Sami, a doctor’s assistant at the hospital. “It was very important to Karmah, the future of Karmah, to complete this hospital. It gives the people faith, all of us faith, that we are getting better one school, one hospital at a time.”

Service members said the new hospital should reduce the strain on surrounding hospitals, such as Fallujah General Hospital, where over-crowding has been a problem.

“A big key to its importance is giving people in Karmah access to a wide variety of healthcare without the need to travel to other cities,” said Navy Lt. Richard Ellis, the battalion surgeon, from Panama City, Fla., with 1st Bn., 3rd Marines.

Ellis said the more people go to general practitioners before going to see a specialty doctor in cities like Fallujah, the more efficiently the overall medical system runs.

“For them to have a brand new hospital—it’s a sign things are progressing,” Ellis said.

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http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26848

GRRREAT!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gif

[Loyal American]

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Iraq navy, marines to begin guarding port, oil platforms

Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition, Thursday, November 27, 2008

The U.S. Coast Guard, Navy, Marines and British Royal Navy are training Iraqi forces to protect a port and two offshore oil platforms in southern Iraq.

The Iraqi navy and newly formed Iraqi marines do exercises at the port of Umm Qasr on the Khawr Az Zubayr waterway, according to a news release issued by Multi-National Security Transition Command - Iraq.

Coast Guard instructors recently trained Iraqi marines on board, search and seizure techniques using a group of stacked containers. Iraqi marines climbed cargo netting up the side of a container to begin a search.

After teaching basic boarding procedures, "we teach boarding, teach ethics — how to deal with people, how to talk to people," said U.S. Coast Guard Petty Officer 3rd Class Thomas Campbell, one of the instructors.

The marines get a week of training in a schoolhouse, a week practicing boarding commercials vessels in the river, and a week boarding coalition boats in the Persian Gulf.
Equipped with a variety of vessels including patrol boats and fast attack boats, they mainly safeguard oil platforms and board, search and seize vessels.

The Iraqi navy secures two oil platforms off the coast and is responsible for port and coastal security law enforcement, search and rescue, and safeguarding commercial ships, officials say.

http://www.stripes.com/article.asp?section=104&article=59087

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[Loyal American]

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Posters are the latest tool against insurgents in Iraq

By Heath Druzin (druzinh@estripes.osd.mil), Stars and Stripes
Mideast edition, Thursday, November 27, 2008

BAGHDAD — In a country that often feels like the Wild West, security forces are turning to a tactic straight out of the American West to isolate and arrest suspected insurgents: the wanted poster.

The posters are hung throughout Baghdad in bustling markets, at checkpoints, even on semi trucks. They include photos of the suspects, along with descriptions of their crimes and, maybe most importantly, offer a cash reward.

The newest low-tech approach — reminiscent of the deck of cards with pictures of key figures in the Saddam Hussein regime that the U.S. military produced at the beginning of the Iraq war — is paying dividends, Iraqi and U.S. officials said.

Tipsters looking for reward money have turned in a few suspected insurgents but, more than that, having their picture plastered across town has driven many of the wanted underground, officials said.

"Because they became famous, everybody knows them and they can’t work inside the city," said Maj. Falah Mustafa, who works in Baghdad’s Saha neighborhood, one of many areas in the south of the city that has seen a steep drop in violence in recent months.

CLICK on photo to read more:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/59086_1126164722b.jpg (http://www.stripes.com/article.asp?section=104&article=59086)

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[Loyal American]

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Coalition forces detain Katai’b Hezbollah suspects (Sadr City)
Thursday, 27 November 2008
BAGHDAD – Coalition forces continue to degrade the Katai’b Hezbollah network with the arrest of another network member early Thursday just south of Sadr City.

Acting on intelligence information, Coalition forces targeted a key Katai’b Hezbollah member believed to have close ties to network leadership.

Coalition forces approached the wanted man’s location, where he identified himself to forces and was apprehended without incident.

“Iraqi citizens in the search area were very cooperative and understanding of the need to apprehend network criminals who hide in their neighborhoods,” said Lt. Col. Matt Garner, MNF-I spokesman.

Katai’b Hezbollah is assessed to be responsible for recent attacks against Iraqi citizens and Iraqi and Coalition forces. http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=24041&Itemid=128

IT'S A REALLY GOOOOD DAY WHEN OUR TROOPS SNATCH UP AN IRANIAN SUPPORTED HEZBOLLAH DIRTBAG! :clap:

HOOAH, GREAT JOB TROOPS!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gif

OH SHEEESH, THEY DID THIS ON THANKSGIVING DAY, SURE HOPE THEY GOT BACK TO BASE FOR SOME TURKEY!!! :pray:

[Loyal American]

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Provincial Reconstruction Team, Iraqi Security Forces Spread Smiles to Iraqi Children

11.26.2008 at 08:34PM

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CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE ADDER, Iraq – Local Iraqi security forces distributed school supplies in Maysan province on Nov. 23 with assistance from the Maysan provincial reconstruction team.

Iraqi and American troops handed out various school supplies such as crayons, rulers, pencils and even backpacks to the elementary school children. While some of the troops issued school supplies, others provided security at the scene.

American Soldiers assigned to the 1st Squadron, 9th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division worked with the 10th Iraqi army division’s troops to make the event a success.

“This was a great opportunity to make the children here happy,” said 1st Lt. Yahea Lafth, an Iraqi military intelligence soldier. Lafth, who is originally from Baghdad, has worked with American troops for years, but he admits this is the first time they have worked together to supply happiness to the children of the Maysan province.

“I like to work with the Americans. This is not the first or the last time we will work together,” Lafth said.

Craig Reilly and his wife, Arie, who work for Multi-National Division - Center, organized the event. The school supplies were provided through a $2,000 grant from the J. Kirby Simon Foreign Service Trust, a charitable fund committed to expanding opportunities for professional and community service.

“We put a lot of work into this project, and it paid off,” Reilly said. Reilly and Foote said the effort put into getting the supplies to these children was worth seeing the emotional reaction from the people there.

Thanks to the support of the PRT and coalition forces working together, the children of Maysan province have something that will make their school days a little more enjoyable.

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http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26855

PRT AND CF BEING SWEEEET TO THE KIDS!
I LOVE THESE POSTS!!! :clap: :cool: :dance: :D :hug:
GOD BLESS AND THANK YOU!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gif

[Loyal American]

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International Security Assistance Force Medics Give New Hope to Young Afghan Girl

11.27.2008 at 12:48AM

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KABUL, Afghanistan — International Security Assistance Force medical personnel recently came together to save the life of a nine-year-old Afghan child.

Toor Pekai has lived with a benign tumor on her face for nearly five years. Benign or not, the tumor grew to impede her speech and ability to eat solid foods.

Jordanian Lt. Col. Mamoun Al-Basheer and a team of doctors worked tirelessly through a six-hour operation to remove a significant portion of the tumor. Al-Basheer is the director of Eagle 27, the Jordanian medical mission to Afghanistan based in Zabul.

He learned about Toor Pekai in early October from U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Mark Hubner, the senior medical advisor on ISAF’s Zabul Provincial Reconstruction Team. Al-Basheer had been in country for one week.

“I accompanied her from [Forward Operating Base] Lagman and took her to [Kandahar Air Field] where I, a British surgeon and his assistant formed a team that operated on Toor Pekai,” he said. “We restored, hopefully, the functional elements in her face ... and she can eat and drink again.”

The surgical team took six hours to remove the tumor on Toor’s face. The growth was an unusual type of tumour called fibrous dysplasia. These tumours tend to be benign and slow growing.

“Although benign in nature, slow-progressing tumours that are not treated can grow to obstruct eating and breathing,” Al-Basheer said. “So, yes, this could have killed her. I couldn’t be happier for Toor Pekai. She’s a cheerful, lovely girl. There is nothing more satisfying to a physician than doing something that impacts a patient’s life to a great degree. It’s not just prolonging her life as a little girl; it’s giving her a new opportunity with an improved quality of life.”

The Zabul PRT had to weigh the options before deciding on surgery for Toor.

“It is an ethical dilemma,” Hubner said. “Does one spend $1 million on a single case that is dramatic and pulls at our heart strings while at the same time hundreds of children are dying of diarrhea or starvation? Diarrhea is not dramatic. Yet that mother mourns the loss of her child just as much the mother of the ‘dramatic’ situation.”

“In this case, we struggled with what would be the best balance,” he added. “Just because we could not do everything does not mean we should not do anything. Previous cases around Afghanistan show that taking a single patient and sending him back to the U.S., Europe or Canada for dramatic surgery rarely works out for the best — there is often no follow up capability in rural areas.”

“We were very happy to learn that there were resources as close as [Kandahar Air Field] to help this girl,” Hubner said. “This was multi-national and multi-organizational cooperation at its best. And as a bonus, when she needs future surgery in a few years, the [Afghan national army] ear, nose and throat surgeon will be able to do it.”

http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26866

GOD BLESS AND THANK YOU FOR HELPING TOOR!!! :hug:

[Loyal American]

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Warriors Bid Farewell to Macedonian Army Partners

Thursday, 27 November 2008

CAMP TAJI — After eleven rotations since the beginning months of Operation Iraqi Freedom, the Macedonian Soldiers are ending their part of the Coalition forces mission here.

The end-of-mission ceremony was “bittersweet” for Coalition forces, as this longtime partner was closing a chapter on its partnership in Iraq.

“Around 450 troops have passed through this mission, and a lot of experience has been brought to the republic of Macedonia and the Soldiers of Macedonia,” said Col. Krume Velkov, director of the general staff of the armed forces for the Republic of Macedonia. “This is certainly a very significant chapter of our history.”

In the past five years, the Macedonian Soldiers have fought side by side with the Coalition and have experienced the progress in Iraq.

“The Coalition has been very fortunate to have the dedicated support of nations like the Republic of Macedonia. They have stood with the Coalition and with the Iraqi Security Forces over the past few years,” said Marine Maj. Gen. Paul Lefebvre, deputy commanding general, Multi-National Corps – Iraq. “Because of your efforts over the past five years, the security condition for thousands of Iraqi citizens has greatly improved.”

CLICK on photo to read more:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/081127_sod_med-1.jpg (http://www.mnf-iraq.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=24047&Itemid=128)

THANK YOU MACEDONIAN TROOPS!
WE APPRECIATED ALL YOUR HARD WORK AND DEDICATION TO THE MISSION!!! http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gifhttp://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/ththththafro-1-1-16.gif

[Loyal American]

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Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers Celebrate Thanksgiving With Fellow Comrades

11.27.2008 at 12:56PM

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CAMP LIBERTY, Iraq – The line stretched out the doors and curved along the sidewalks as Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers gathered at the 4th Infantry Division’s Ironhorse Oasis Dining Facility to celebrate Thanksgiving together, Nov. 27.

Historians say it was 1621 when colonists and Indians shared an autumn harvest feast, known to many Americans as the first Thanksgiving celebration. The shared meal became a symbol of cooperation and interaction – and has held great meaning and importance over time.

The legacy has survived centuries as people throughout the United States gather every year on the last Thursday of November to celebrate their thanks and share enormous amounts of food with their family and friends.

Although Soldiers with MND-B weren’t home with their families and loved ones this Thanksgiving, they made every attempt possible to continue the traditions and celebrate their gratitude.

More than 72,000 Soldiers, fellow service members, contactors, subcontractors and Department of the Army civilians throughout Baghdad feasted on 49,600 pounds of turkey, 6,300 pounds of fresh shrimp, 35,000 pounds of fresh mashed potatoes, 8,000 pounds of bread and dressing, 10,400 pounds of corn, 7,300 pounds of green beans, 55 gallons of gravy and 10,000 assorted pies, said Chief Warrant Officer 4 Sharon McCray, a native of Fort Worth, Texas, who serves as command food advisor with Company B, Division Special Troops Battalion, 4th Inf. Div., MND-B.

CLICK on photo to read more:

http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/BarbOOOO2/131880.jpg (http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26888)

HAPPY THANKSGIVING, TROOPS!!! :hug::hug::hug:

[Loyal American]

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Camp Eggers Celebrates Thanksgiving With Carnival

11.27.2008 at 10:18AM

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KABUL, Afghanistan — Service members at Camp Eggers marked Thanksgiving Day 2008 with good food, games and laughter, as Combined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan celebrated with a winter carnival.

With a joint military command of more than 1,000 personnel away from home during the holidays, morale, welfare and recreation personnel sought to make the holiday memorable.

“Thanksgiving back home for me is always a huge gathering, so being away from home during the holidays is hard,” said Petty Officer 3rd Class Odell Hudson. “But today has been fun. It took away the thought of being away from home for the holidays.”

Camp Eggers personnel participated in various competitions, including darts; football and softball throws; and pie- and hot dog-eating competitions. Prizes were offered, and camel rides were also available around base.

CSTC-A provides advisors, mentors and trainers to help the Ministry of Defense and Ministry of Interior with organizing, training, equipping and supporting Afghan national security forces in order to defeat the insurgency; provide internal security; extend and enforce the rule of law; set conditions for economic development; and gain the trust and confidence of the citizens of Afghanistan.

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Taking aim, Petty Officer 3rd Class Odell Hudson gets ready for his final shoot of the free-throw competition. For every game won, tickets were given for a raffle of various prizes at Camp Eggers' winter carnival, Combined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan, Kabul Thanksgiving Day.
http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26881

GOD BLESS OUR TROOPS!!! :hug::hug::hug:

[Loyal American]

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Secretary of the Navy Visits Troops in Fallujah

11.27.2008 at 05:18PM

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FALLUJAH, Iraq – Secretary of the Navy Donald C. Winter visited Marines and other service members operating in Fallujah, Iraq, during the Thanksgiving Day holiday.

Winter met with the Marines and Sailors of 1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 1, at Camp Baharia to take part in holiday festivities and to praise progress they and other service members are making throughout Iraq, Nov. 27.

During a brief town hall meeting, Winter spoke about the future of the War on Terror and about several changes that are currently taking place in Iraq as part of the transfer of security.

“We are currently in a transition period, and we need to make sure we hand over security to the Iraqis in a proper manner,” said Winter.

Earlier in the day, Winter and Lt. Col. Chris Hastings, commanding officer, 1st Bn., 4th Marines, visited Entry Control Point 1A in Fallujah to witness progress Iraqi security forces have made.

Iraqi police now handle security at the ECP, replacing Marines with the battalion. The ECP regulates civilian and military traffic into the city.

“We looked at operations taking place at the ECP because of the shift in the way they are run,” said Hastings. “The past two weeks have been extremely successful with the way it has been ran, and we suspect that they will continue to prevent violence from occurring.”

Winter also took the opportunity to serve troops a Thanksgiving meal at the camps dining facility.

“I appreciate your hard work and efforts,” Winter said to a group of Marines at the dining facility. “I hope you have a great Thanksgiving; you deserve the dinner that we are serving you, and I hope this shows our appreciation for you.”

Several Marines with the battalion waited in line to speak with Winter and expressed their gratitude for the visit.

Winter urged the Marines to continue making progress in Fallujah, and expressed his thanks for their selfless efforts.

http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26892

GOD BLESS OUR MARINES!!! :flag:
THANK YOU FROM A GRATEFUL AMERICA!!! :flag:

[Loyal American]

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Multi-National Forces–Iraq Commander Spends Thanksgiving With Ramadi Troops

11.27.2008 at 05:34PM

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CAMP RAMADI, Iraq – Army Gen. Raymond T. Odierno, the commanding general of Multi-National Forces–Iraq, spent his Thanksgiving visiting troops at Camp Ramadi and other locations throughout, Iraq, Nov. 27.

During his visit at Camp Ramadi, Odierno greeted Marines of 2nd Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 1, and later ate Thanksgiving lunch with Marines from the regiment and Soldiers with Task Force Ramadi.

Odierno thanked the Marines and Soldiers for their service and said he is proud to be serving with them during this demanding time.

“I just want to say that I am proud to be able to serve with you, especially on days like this,” Odierno said to Marines at the 2nd Bn., 9th Marines’ headquarters. “Many people all over the United States are thankful for a lot of things but I’ll tell you one thing, they’re thankful for you and the job you do.”

Sgt. John F. Newhouse, a 36-year-old maintenance chief from Pittsburg with Headquarters and Support Company, 2nd Bn., 9th Marines, commented on what it meant to him and his Marines that Odierno took time to visit on the special day.

“He just stopped by to see how we were doing and it’s great that out of all the places he could have stopped on Ramadi, he came here to our shop. It’s really a great morale boost for the Marines,” Newhouse said.

Odierno left the Marines with some advice before departing for the camp’s dining facility.

“It’s a different world in Iraq now than it was 18 months or even a year ago,” Odierno said. “What you need to do now is stay focused on what you’re doing, take care of your battle buddies, maintain standards and don’t get complacent.”

Odierno also made stops in Baghdad, at Forward Operating Base Iskan and at Contingency Operating Base Speicher.

http://www.dvidshub.net/index.php?script=news/news_show.php&id=26894

THANK YOU FOR TAKING TIME TO VISIT OUR TROOPS ON THANKSGIVING DAY, GENERAL ODIERNO!
YOU ARE ALL DOING A OUTSTANDING JOB AND IT IS GREATLY APPRECIATED!!!
:flag:

[Loyal American]

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Two suspected AQI terrorists captured Thursday
Friday, 28 November 2008
BAGHDAD – Coalition forces captured two wanted men during operations Thursday night, as they continued to disrupt al-Qaeda in Iraq’s bombing and leadership networks.

AQI bombing networks were further degraded by Coalition forces Wednesday. Forces in Byji, 160 km south of M