By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
June 12, 2007 – Lessons of the Cold War are important, because the same hatred that led to millions of people's deaths during the 20th century is still at work today in the world, President Bush said today as the dedication of the new Victims of Communism memorial here. Bush lauded the new memorial in the U.S. capital as a lasting tribute to an estimated 100 million innocent men, women and children whose lives were cut short by imperial communism.
They include innocent Ukrainians starved to death during Josef Stalin's great famine, Russians killed in his purges, and Lithuanians, Latvians and Estonians loaded onto cattle cars and deported to Soviet death camps, the president said. Others were Chinese killed during the Cultural Revolution, Cambodians slain in Pol Pot's killing fields, East Germans shot attempting to scale the Berlin Wall, Poles massacred in the Katyn Forest, and Ethiopians slaughtered during the Red Terror. Still others were Mosquito Indians murdered by Nicaragua's Sandinista dictatorship and Cubans who drowned in a desperate effort to escape tyranny.
"We'll never know the names of all who perished," Bush said today. "But at this sacred place, communism's unknown victims will be consecrated to history and remembered forever."
Bush said the new memorial helps ensure that future generations remember the crimes of the 20th century to ensure they're never repeated.
"In this hallowed place, we recall the great lessons of the Cold War," he said. One lesson is that "freedom is precious and cannot be taken for granted." Another lesson: "evil is real and must be confronted." A third lesson: "that given the chance, men commanded by harsh and hateful ideologies will commit unspeakable crimes and take the lives of millions."
These lessons are important to remember, Bush said, "because the evil and hatred that inspired the death of tens of millions of people in the 20th century is still at work in the world."
That hatred showed its face on Sept. 11, 2001, when more than 3,000 Americans died during terrorist attacks at the World Trade Center in New York, the Pentagon, and in Shanksville, Pa., he said.
"Like the communists, the terrorists and radicals who attacked our nation are followers of a murderous ideology that despises freedom, crushes all dissent, has expansionist ambitions, and pursues totalitarian aims," he said.
And the similarities go beyond hatred, Bush said. "Like the communists, our new enemies are dismissive of free peoples, claiming that those of us who live in liberty are weak and lack the resolve to defend our way of life," he said. "And like the communists, the followers of violent Islamic radicalism are doomed to fail."
Bush said it's important that people recognize these comparisons and heed the lessons imperial communism left behind.
"By remaining steadfast in freedom's cause, we will ensure that a future American president does not have to stand in a place like this and dedicate a memorial to the millions killed by the radicals and extremists of the 21st century," he said.
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Thursday, June 14, 2007
Defense Department Identifies Casualties
American Forces Press Service
June 12, 2007 – Defense Department officials have released the identities of five soldiers killed supporting operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. '
-- Army Staff Sgt. Brian M. Long, 32, of Burns, Wyo., died June 10 in Baghdad of wounds suffered from explosive ordnance. He was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 3rd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team), Fort Lewis, Wash
. -- Army Sgt. Cory M. Endlich, 23, of Massillon, Ohio, died June 9 in Taji, Iraq, of wounds suffered from enemy small-arms fire. He was assigned to 2nd Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team), Fort Lewis.
-- Army Pvt. Scott A. Miller, 20, of Casper, Wyo., died June 9 in Baqubah, Iraq, of wounds suffered from enemy small-arms fire. He was assigned to 5th Battalion, 20th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team), Fort Lewis.
-- Army Sgt. Charles E. Wyckoff Jr., 28, of Chula Vista, Calif., died June 6 in Helmand province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered from enemy small-arms fire. He was assigned to 1st Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Bragg, N.C.
-- Army Sgt. Dariek E. Dehn, 32, of Spangle, Wash., died June 2 in Sharkat, Iraq, of wounds suffered from an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to 6th Squadron, 9th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas.
(Compiled from Defense Department news releases.)
June 12, 2007 – Defense Department officials have released the identities of five soldiers killed supporting operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. '
-- Army Staff Sgt. Brian M. Long, 32, of Burns, Wyo., died June 10 in Baghdad of wounds suffered from explosive ordnance. He was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 3rd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team), Fort Lewis, Wash
. -- Army Sgt. Cory M. Endlich, 23, of Massillon, Ohio, died June 9 in Taji, Iraq, of wounds suffered from enemy small-arms fire. He was assigned to 2nd Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team), Fort Lewis.
-- Army Pvt. Scott A. Miller, 20, of Casper, Wyo., died June 9 in Baqubah, Iraq, of wounds suffered from enemy small-arms fire. He was assigned to 5th Battalion, 20th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team), Fort Lewis.
-- Army Sgt. Charles E. Wyckoff Jr., 28, of Chula Vista, Calif., died June 6 in Helmand province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered from enemy small-arms fire. He was assigned to 1st Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Bragg, N.C.
-- Army Sgt. Dariek E. Dehn, 32, of Spangle, Wash., died June 2 in Sharkat, Iraq, of wounds suffered from an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to 6th Squadron, 9th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas.
(Compiled from Defense Department news releases.)
Soldiers, Marine Killed in Iraq; Defense Department Identifies Casualties
American Forces Press Service
June 13, 2007 – Two soldiers were killed in Iraq yesterday and a Marine was killed June 11, military officials reported. Also, the Defense Department released the identities of three soldiers killed recently in Iraq.
-- A Marine assigned to Multinational Force West was killed yesterday while conducting combat operations in Anbar province.
-- A Multinational Division Baghdad soldier was killed and two others were wounded when their vehicle struck a roadside bomb in southern Baghdad in the early morning hours yesterday.
-- A Multinational Division Baghdad soldier was killed June 11 when a roadside bomb detonated during combat operations in an eastern section of Baghdad. The deceased servicemembers' names are being withheld pending notification of next of kin.
Meanwhile, the Defense Department released the identities of three soldiers who were killed recently supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died June 10 in Karbala, Iraq, of wounds suffered from an improvised explosive device.
Killed were:
-- Cpl. Llythaniele Fender, 21, of Medical Lake, Wash. Fender was assigned to the 5th Battalion, 5th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, Fort Lewis, Wash. -- Cpl. Meresebang Ngiraked, 21, of Koror, Republic of Palau. He was assigned to the 5th Battalion, 5th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, Fort Lewis.
-- Spc. Adam G. Herold, 23, of Omaha, Neb. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 377th Parachute Field Artillery Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 25th Infantry Division, Fort Richardson, Alaska.
(Compiled from Multinational Corps Iraq and Defense Department news releases.)
June 13, 2007 – Two soldiers were killed in Iraq yesterday and a Marine was killed June 11, military officials reported. Also, the Defense Department released the identities of three soldiers killed recently in Iraq.
-- A Marine assigned to Multinational Force West was killed yesterday while conducting combat operations in Anbar province.
-- A Multinational Division Baghdad soldier was killed and two others were wounded when their vehicle struck a roadside bomb in southern Baghdad in the early morning hours yesterday.
-- A Multinational Division Baghdad soldier was killed June 11 when a roadside bomb detonated during combat operations in an eastern section of Baghdad. The deceased servicemembers' names are being withheld pending notification of next of kin.
Meanwhile, the Defense Department released the identities of three soldiers who were killed recently supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died June 10 in Karbala, Iraq, of wounds suffered from an improvised explosive device.
Killed were:
-- Cpl. Llythaniele Fender, 21, of Medical Lake, Wash. Fender was assigned to the 5th Battalion, 5th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, Fort Lewis, Wash. -- Cpl. Meresebang Ngiraked, 21, of Koror, Republic of Palau. He was assigned to the 5th Battalion, 5th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, Fort Lewis.
-- Spc. Adam G. Herold, 23, of Omaha, Neb. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 377th Parachute Field Artillery Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 25th Infantry Division, Fort Richardson, Alaska.
(Compiled from Multinational Corps Iraq and Defense Department news releases.)
Marine Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Lance Cpl. Johnny R. Strong, 21, of Waco, Texas., died June 12 while conducting combat operations in Al Anbar province, Iraq. He was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, Twentynine Palms, Calif.
For more information in regard to this release the media can contact the Twentynine Palms public affairs office at (760) 830-5476.
Lance Cpl. Johnny R. Strong, 21, of Waco, Texas., died June 12 while conducting combat operations in Al Anbar province, Iraq. He was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, Twentynine Palms, Calif.
For more information in regard to this release the media can contact the Twentynine Palms public affairs office at (760) 830-5476.
Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Spc. Damon G. Legrand, 27, of Lakeside, Calif., died June 12 in Baqubah, Iraq, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit with anti-tank mines, rocket-propelled grenades and small arms fire in Baghdad, Iraq. He was assigned to the 571st Military Police Company, 504th Military Police Battalion, 42nd Military Police Brigade, Fort Lewis, Wash.
For more information related to this release the media may contact the Fort Lewis public affairs office at (253) 967-0152 or (253) 967-0147.
Spc. Damon G. Legrand, 27, of Lakeside, Calif., died June 12 in Baqubah, Iraq, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit with anti-tank mines, rocket-propelled grenades and small arms fire in Baghdad, Iraq. He was assigned to the 571st Military Police Company, 504th Military Police Battalion, 42nd Military Police Brigade, Fort Lewis, Wash.
For more information related to this release the media may contact the Fort Lewis public affairs office at (253) 967-0152 or (253) 967-0147.
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
Leadership Crucial to Developing Iraqi Security Forces
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service
June 12, 2007 – Iraqi security units have developed to the point where they can assume a greater share of the security burden, the U.S. general in charge of training those forces until earlier this week said here today. Army Lt. Gen. Martin E. Dempsey turned over command of Multinational Security Transition Command Iraq to Army Lt. Gen. James Dubik on June 10 in Baghdad and testified before the House Armed Services Committee oversight subcommittee today.
Dempsey gave an unvarnished assessment of the progress and roadblocks in training and equipping the Iraqi army, national police and local police.
"My overall assessment is that many units, especially the Iraqi army units, have become increasingly proficient and have demonstrated both their improved capability and resolve in battle," he said.
But both army and police units continue to be hampered by a lack of depth, he said. "They have a lack of tactical staying power of sufficient capability to surge forces locally," Dempsey told the representatives.
And all security organizations suffer from shortages of leaders from the tactical to the national level, he said.
As conditions in the country change, goals are readjusted and the security situation requires more soldiers and police. For example, the command reached its goal for "trained and equipped" soldiers in December 2006, only to have the goal upped by 45,000. Since then, the goal has risen another 20,000.
Dempsey's command generates units and individual replacements, develops institutional processes -- logistics, financial, manpower, fuel -- necessary to support fielded forces and professionalizing Iraqi forces and leaders.
Changes in the Iraqi government also are being felt through the ranks of the military and police, Dempsey said. Through 2005, the United States paid for all Iraqi security forces, he said. In 2006, the Iraqi government assumed responsibility for all life support for Iraqi forces. "We learned the importance of developing both the tactical and the institutional sectors of the forces simultaneously," he said.
The central government pays all Iraqi soldiers and police, the general said. The government also is paying for subsistence and barracks.
"The ministries of Defense and Interior are functioning institutions who feel themselves responsible for the security of the nation and for their security forces," Dempsey said. "Challenges remain, but we should not underestimate the importance of having a coherent, accountable and responsible Iraqi chain of command from individual soldier and policeman to the ministers of defense and interior."
More work needs to be done, especially at the ministries. He said Iraqi business practices "are horribly inefficient and ineffective," and there are few skilled civil servants. Still, there is progress. This year, the government of Iraq will spend more on its security forces than the United States government. Next year, the Iraqis will outspend the U.S. by a 2-to-1 margin, he said.
"If the government feels itself accountable to the soldier and understands its responsibility to provide him resources, then the soldier, in turn is going to feel his loyalty to the central government. We consider this an important measure of progress," Dempsey said.
The general said the challenge for 2008 is to find an adequate number of leaders to lead the security forces.
"We've been growing young second lieutenants through the military academies for three years," he said. "But it's very difficult to grow majors, lieutenant colonels and brigadier generals. It simply can't be done overnight."
Dempsey said the Iraqi people and their leaders are working in an incredibly challenging and dangerous environment. "The people of Iraq have demonstrated resolve and resiliency in withstanding the assaults of extremists and seem to be committed to make a better life for themselves, their families and their nation," he said. "The leaders and the people of Iraq have not given up on themselves. We should not give up on them."
Dempsey's next assignment is as deputy commander of U.S. Central Command.
Article sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have authored books.
American Forces Press Service
June 12, 2007 – Iraqi security units have developed to the point where they can assume a greater share of the security burden, the U.S. general in charge of training those forces until earlier this week said here today. Army Lt. Gen. Martin E. Dempsey turned over command of Multinational Security Transition Command Iraq to Army Lt. Gen. James Dubik on June 10 in Baghdad and testified before the House Armed Services Committee oversight subcommittee today.
Dempsey gave an unvarnished assessment of the progress and roadblocks in training and equipping the Iraqi army, national police and local police.
"My overall assessment is that many units, especially the Iraqi army units, have become increasingly proficient and have demonstrated both their improved capability and resolve in battle," he said.
But both army and police units continue to be hampered by a lack of depth, he said. "They have a lack of tactical staying power of sufficient capability to surge forces locally," Dempsey told the representatives.
And all security organizations suffer from shortages of leaders from the tactical to the national level, he said.
As conditions in the country change, goals are readjusted and the security situation requires more soldiers and police. For example, the command reached its goal for "trained and equipped" soldiers in December 2006, only to have the goal upped by 45,000. Since then, the goal has risen another 20,000.
Dempsey's command generates units and individual replacements, develops institutional processes -- logistics, financial, manpower, fuel -- necessary to support fielded forces and professionalizing Iraqi forces and leaders.
Changes in the Iraqi government also are being felt through the ranks of the military and police, Dempsey said. Through 2005, the United States paid for all Iraqi security forces, he said. In 2006, the Iraqi government assumed responsibility for all life support for Iraqi forces. "We learned the importance of developing both the tactical and the institutional sectors of the forces simultaneously," he said.
The central government pays all Iraqi soldiers and police, the general said. The government also is paying for subsistence and barracks.
"The ministries of Defense and Interior are functioning institutions who feel themselves responsible for the security of the nation and for their security forces," Dempsey said. "Challenges remain, but we should not underestimate the importance of having a coherent, accountable and responsible Iraqi chain of command from individual soldier and policeman to the ministers of defense and interior."
More work needs to be done, especially at the ministries. He said Iraqi business practices "are horribly inefficient and ineffective," and there are few skilled civil servants. Still, there is progress. This year, the government of Iraq will spend more on its security forces than the United States government. Next year, the Iraqis will outspend the U.S. by a 2-to-1 margin, he said.
"If the government feels itself accountable to the soldier and understands its responsibility to provide him resources, then the soldier, in turn is going to feel his loyalty to the central government. We consider this an important measure of progress," Dempsey said.
The general said the challenge for 2008 is to find an adequate number of leaders to lead the security forces.
"We've been growing young second lieutenants through the military academies for three years," he said. "But it's very difficult to grow majors, lieutenant colonels and brigadier generals. It simply can't be done overnight."
Dempsey said the Iraqi people and their leaders are working in an incredibly challenging and dangerous environment. "The people of Iraq have demonstrated resolve and resiliency in withstanding the assaults of extremists and seem to be committed to make a better life for themselves, their families and their nation," he said. "The leaders and the people of Iraq have not given up on themselves. We should not give up on them."
Dempsey's next assignment is as deputy commander of U.S. Central Command.
Article sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have authored books.
Gangs, Drugs and Immigration
Law enforcement officers will have the opportunity to learn about the latest technology developments and sophisticated maneuvers being used to fight gangs worldwide at “Gangs, Drugs & Immigration,” a training conference scheduled for Sept. 5-7, 2007, in downtown Los Angeles.
read more | digg story
read more | digg story
Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Pfc. Cameron K. Payne, 22, of Corona, Calif., died June 11 in Balad, Iraq, of wounds suffered from an improvised explosive device that detonated near his vehicle during combat operations in Baghdad, Iraq. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kan.
For more information related to this release the media may contact the Fort Riley public affairs office at (785) 239-3410.
Pfc. Cameron K. Payne, 22, of Corona, Calif., died June 11 in Balad, Iraq, of wounds suffered from an improvised explosive device that detonated near his vehicle during combat operations in Baghdad, Iraq. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kan.
For more information related to this release the media may contact the Fort Riley public affairs office at (785) 239-3410.
Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Pvt. William C. Johnson, 22, of Oxford, N.C., died June 12 in Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds suffered from an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 1st Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kan.
For more information related to this release the media may contact the Fort Riley public affairs office at (785) 239-3410.
Pvt. William C. Johnson, 22, of Oxford, N.C., died June 12 in Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds suffered from an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 1st Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kan.
For more information related to this release the media may contact the Fort Riley public affairs office at (785) 239-3410.
Officials Reach for Realistic Targets for Iraq's Electric Supply
By Tim Kilbride
Special to American Forces Press Service
June 12, 2007 – The goal for Iraq's electrical sector is to meet roughly 50 percent of demand over the summer, a U.S. reconstruction official said. Army Col. Michael Moon, director of electrical sector development for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Gulf Region Division, spoke with "bloggers" and online journalists on a June 9 conference call. He said he expected to have between 5,000 and 6,000 megawatts of power on the Iraqi grid by summer's end.
Steady generation of 5,000 megawatts would represent 56 percent of the electricity demand for the country and just over 50 percent of the demand for Baghdad, Moon said.
"One good, positive trend is that actually our generation numbers are increasing," he said. "It's been an upward trend for about the last 30 days, keeping in mind that demand has also been increasing during that time period."
Even upon reaching the 6,000-megawatt target in the near-term, Moon said, demand will continue to outstrip supply. But even at less than 100 percent, he noted, most Iraqis are receiving more power than they did under Saddam Hussein.
Prior to the U.S. invasion in 2003, Moon said, electricity was rationed as a political spoil. Baghdad was kept illuminated at the expense of the outlying provinces.
"After Operation Iraqi Freedom, 75 percent of Iraq automatically was receiving twice as much power as they did before," Moon observed. "Unfortunately for the residents of Baghdad who were used to that lion's share, they saw the reduction."
In light of rising demand, "the goal right now is to provide 10 to 12 hours of power daily throughout the country," Moon said. "And again, even before 2003, there (were) no 24-hour operations for electricity. ... And it's not necessarily our goal to get there, but that's just kind of the metrics."
Obstacles to progress abound, the colonel noted. The insurgency represents an omnipresent shadow on construction of a fully functioning national electrical grid, and transmission is affected as a result.
"It's so easy to disrupt the electrical system," Moon said. "It's so easy to pull down a tower and ... cause a blackout across the country."
As an example of the threat to the transmission sector, Moon pointed to a hydroelectric generating station in Anbar province.
"That was an isolated power-generation unit. ... And by linking it back to the grid, that has improved dramatically some of the electricity that's available and getting into Baghdad," he said. "Our big concern is that insurgents or terrorists are going to knock that line down again."
Never knowing when a portion of the national grid might go down makes it extraordinarily challenging to balance the power supply, Moon explained.
"If you get into the real technical parts of it, it is almost impossible to develop a national grid on a rolling blackout system," he said. "It's incredibly complex. It's technical. It requires a great deal of cooperation."
The challenge cannot be considered in the same context as the United States, where the electrical system has been refined over decades, Moon said.
"In our society, we've had 100-plus years of improving it and making it work with long-range planning always looking out ahead to meet ... the growth of our nation," he said. "That has not been the case in Iraq, where you've had infrastructure deterioration for over 20 years and they haven't had 24-hour electricity to begin with."
Similarly, he pointed out, the maturation of bureaucratic functions to oversee the industry takes a long time. While the United States has established agencies with clear regulations, Iraq is still learning to govern itself and share power at the national and provincial levels, he said.
"As much as we hate the bureaucracy in America, boy, I've really learned that it gets stuff done; it actually works. And the problem is, there is absolutely no bureaucracy here," Moon explained.
In the case of the Iraqi minister of electricity, he said, that translates to extreme political hurdles for every new project undertaken.
"His hands are virtually tied in terms of threshold limits that he can actually commit and authorize and has permission to use," Moon said. "Every project he's got to put together sort of a packet, and he's got to go brief the cabinet, he's got to brief the deputy prime minister, he's got to brief the prime minister. If that system was in place in America, the Cabinet official in charge of the Department of Energy wouldn't get squat done."
Inefficiencies at the national level often are misread for neglect and hostility at the provincial level, Moon noted.
"I can tell you, there's 18 governors ... throughout Iraq in the provinces, and they all think the minister of electricity's screwing them," Moon said. "It's the kind of guy that no matter what he does, somewhere somebody's going to hate him."
In fact, the colonel explained, the minister is a "technocrat" with a Ph.D. in electrical engineering.
"He is the kind of guy you need," Moon said. "He has grown up in the Iraqi electrical industry; he was a plant manager. He has worked many of these issues: generation, transmission. He knows what he needs to do. (However,) he doesn't have the resources; he doesn't always have the political backing."
Still, Moon noted, reconstruction of the electrical sector continues to hit milestones, bit by bit. If maintenance improves while generation capacity is increased up to 6,000 megawatts, Moon predicted, "that will definitely be a success."
Reaching that goal by the end of summer would allow coalition assets to switch focus to "serious maintenance" on the turbines and generators, Moon said, "in order to facilitate long-term growth and health of the system."
The colonel reiterated that where Iraq's power situation stands now vs. where it was in 2003 is well advanced from reasonable expectations and historical precedent.
"We forget sometimes how big a project we take on. We forget how big some of these issues are," he said. "But in context of the scope and scale and the security situation, we've got guys that are doing incredible work under arduous conditions, doing the best they can."
(Tim Kilbride is assigned to New Media, American Forces Information Service.)
Article sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have authored books.
Special to American Forces Press Service
June 12, 2007 – The goal for Iraq's electrical sector is to meet roughly 50 percent of demand over the summer, a U.S. reconstruction official said. Army Col. Michael Moon, director of electrical sector development for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Gulf Region Division, spoke with "bloggers" and online journalists on a June 9 conference call. He said he expected to have between 5,000 and 6,000 megawatts of power on the Iraqi grid by summer's end.
Steady generation of 5,000 megawatts would represent 56 percent of the electricity demand for the country and just over 50 percent of the demand for Baghdad, Moon said.
"One good, positive trend is that actually our generation numbers are increasing," he said. "It's been an upward trend for about the last 30 days, keeping in mind that demand has also been increasing during that time period."
Even upon reaching the 6,000-megawatt target in the near-term, Moon said, demand will continue to outstrip supply. But even at less than 100 percent, he noted, most Iraqis are receiving more power than they did under Saddam Hussein.
Prior to the U.S. invasion in 2003, Moon said, electricity was rationed as a political spoil. Baghdad was kept illuminated at the expense of the outlying provinces.
"After Operation Iraqi Freedom, 75 percent of Iraq automatically was receiving twice as much power as they did before," Moon observed. "Unfortunately for the residents of Baghdad who were used to that lion's share, they saw the reduction."
In light of rising demand, "the goal right now is to provide 10 to 12 hours of power daily throughout the country," Moon said. "And again, even before 2003, there (were) no 24-hour operations for electricity. ... And it's not necessarily our goal to get there, but that's just kind of the metrics."
Obstacles to progress abound, the colonel noted. The insurgency represents an omnipresent shadow on construction of a fully functioning national electrical grid, and transmission is affected as a result.
"It's so easy to disrupt the electrical system," Moon said. "It's so easy to pull down a tower and ... cause a blackout across the country."
As an example of the threat to the transmission sector, Moon pointed to a hydroelectric generating station in Anbar province.
"That was an isolated power-generation unit. ... And by linking it back to the grid, that has improved dramatically some of the electricity that's available and getting into Baghdad," he said. "Our big concern is that insurgents or terrorists are going to knock that line down again."
Never knowing when a portion of the national grid might go down makes it extraordinarily challenging to balance the power supply, Moon explained.
"If you get into the real technical parts of it, it is almost impossible to develop a national grid on a rolling blackout system," he said. "It's incredibly complex. It's technical. It requires a great deal of cooperation."
The challenge cannot be considered in the same context as the United States, where the electrical system has been refined over decades, Moon said.
"In our society, we've had 100-plus years of improving it and making it work with long-range planning always looking out ahead to meet ... the growth of our nation," he said. "That has not been the case in Iraq, where you've had infrastructure deterioration for over 20 years and they haven't had 24-hour electricity to begin with."
Similarly, he pointed out, the maturation of bureaucratic functions to oversee the industry takes a long time. While the United States has established agencies with clear regulations, Iraq is still learning to govern itself and share power at the national and provincial levels, he said.
"As much as we hate the bureaucracy in America, boy, I've really learned that it gets stuff done; it actually works. And the problem is, there is absolutely no bureaucracy here," Moon explained.
In the case of the Iraqi minister of electricity, he said, that translates to extreme political hurdles for every new project undertaken.
"His hands are virtually tied in terms of threshold limits that he can actually commit and authorize and has permission to use," Moon said. "Every project he's got to put together sort of a packet, and he's got to go brief the cabinet, he's got to brief the deputy prime minister, he's got to brief the prime minister. If that system was in place in America, the Cabinet official in charge of the Department of Energy wouldn't get squat done."
Inefficiencies at the national level often are misread for neglect and hostility at the provincial level, Moon noted.
"I can tell you, there's 18 governors ... throughout Iraq in the provinces, and they all think the minister of electricity's screwing them," Moon said. "It's the kind of guy that no matter what he does, somewhere somebody's going to hate him."
In fact, the colonel explained, the minister is a "technocrat" with a Ph.D. in electrical engineering.
"He is the kind of guy you need," Moon said. "He has grown up in the Iraqi electrical industry; he was a plant manager. He has worked many of these issues: generation, transmission. He knows what he needs to do. (However,) he doesn't have the resources; he doesn't always have the political backing."
Still, Moon noted, reconstruction of the electrical sector continues to hit milestones, bit by bit. If maintenance improves while generation capacity is increased up to 6,000 megawatts, Moon predicted, "that will definitely be a success."
Reaching that goal by the end of summer would allow coalition assets to switch focus to "serious maintenance" on the turbines and generators, Moon said, "in order to facilitate long-term growth and health of the system."
The colonel reiterated that where Iraq's power situation stands now vs. where it was in 2003 is well advanced from reasonable expectations and historical precedent.
"We forget sometimes how big a project we take on. We forget how big some of these issues are," he said. "But in context of the scope and scale and the security situation, we've got guys that are doing incredible work under arduous conditions, doing the best they can."
(Tim Kilbride is assigned to New Media, American Forces Information Service.)
Article sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have authored books.
Dubik Takes Responsibility for Training Iraqi Security Forces
By Air Force Senior Airman Christie Putz
Special to American Forces Press Service
June 11, 2007 – Much work needs to be done to protect the Iraqi people, but the new general overseeing training for Iraqi security forces is "precisely the right man for this position at this time," the officer in charge of coalition forces in Iraq said. During the ceremony, Army Gen. David H. Petraeus, commander of Multinational Force Iraq, said Dubik has been known throughout his career for his impressive creativity, resourcefulness, innovativeness and impressive leadership skills.
Dubik previously served as the commanding general of 1st Corps and Fort Lewis, Wash., where he trained and sent thousands of soldiers into the fight that he now joins. Both 3rd Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division, and 4th Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division, units he commanded at Fort Lewis, are deployed to Iraq.
Dubik succeeds Army Lt. Gen. Martin E. Dempsey, who will go on to serve as the deputy commanding general of U.S. Central Command, with headquarters at MacDill Air Force Base, Fla.
Petraeus - who held the training post before Dempsey -- commended Dempsey's accomplishments, citing examples of progress made. "There are now 350,000 Iraqi security forces members in the fight," Petraeus said. "Many thousands more are being recruited and trained."
He cited the improved living and working conditions for the Iraqi soldiers and some of the equipment they now have to help them in the fight: tracked and wheeled vehicles, up-armored Humvees, patrol cars and boats, helicopters, C-130 cargo aircraft, pistols, rifles, rocket-propelled grenades, grenade launchers, and heavy machine guns.
Dempsey said he is confident that the future of Multinational Security Transition Command Iraq and NATO Training Mission Iraq looks bright with Dubik in the lead. "Lieutenant General Dubik will be a magnificent commander and brother to Iraq's senior military and civilian leaders," he said.
In his remarks, spoken all in Arabic, Dubik said he is grateful for the opportunity to do his part.
"I am committed to helping Iraq defeat the insurgents and achieve its desire to rule itself in peace and justice, with equality and opportunity for every citizen," he said. "The future of our children will depend upon our wisdom and determination."
(Air Force Senior Airman Christie Putz is assigned to Multinational Security Transition Command Iraq.)
Article sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have authored books.
Special to American Forces Press Service
June 11, 2007 – Much work needs to be done to protect the Iraqi people, but the new general overseeing training for Iraqi security forces is "precisely the right man for this position at this time," the officer in charge of coalition forces in Iraq said. During the ceremony, Army Gen. David H. Petraeus, commander of Multinational Force Iraq, said Dubik has been known throughout his career for his impressive creativity, resourcefulness, innovativeness and impressive leadership skills.
Dubik previously served as the commanding general of 1st Corps and Fort Lewis, Wash., where he trained and sent thousands of soldiers into the fight that he now joins. Both 3rd Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division, and 4th Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division, units he commanded at Fort Lewis, are deployed to Iraq.
Dubik succeeds Army Lt. Gen. Martin E. Dempsey, who will go on to serve as the deputy commanding general of U.S. Central Command, with headquarters at MacDill Air Force Base, Fla.
Petraeus - who held the training post before Dempsey -- commended Dempsey's accomplishments, citing examples of progress made. "There are now 350,000 Iraqi security forces members in the fight," Petraeus said. "Many thousands more are being recruited and trained."
He cited the improved living and working conditions for the Iraqi soldiers and some of the equipment they now have to help them in the fight: tracked and wheeled vehicles, up-armored Humvees, patrol cars and boats, helicopters, C-130 cargo aircraft, pistols, rifles, rocket-propelled grenades, grenade launchers, and heavy machine guns.
Dempsey said he is confident that the future of Multinational Security Transition Command Iraq and NATO Training Mission Iraq looks bright with Dubik in the lead. "Lieutenant General Dubik will be a magnificent commander and brother to Iraq's senior military and civilian leaders," he said.
In his remarks, spoken all in Arabic, Dubik said he is grateful for the opportunity to do his part.
"I am committed to helping Iraq defeat the insurgents and achieve its desire to rule itself in peace and justice, with equality and opportunity for every citizen," he said. "The future of our children will depend upon our wisdom and determination."
(Air Force Senior Airman Christie Putz is assigned to Multinational Security Transition Command Iraq.)
Article sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have authored books.
Three Soldiers Killed in Iraq; Previous Casualty Identified
American Forces Press Service
June 11, 2007 – Three U.S. soldiers were killed and six were wounded when a suicide car bomb struck the checkpoint they were manning south of Baghdad yesterday.
An Iraqi interpreter also was wounded in the attack, which destroyed part of a highway overpass near Mahmoudiya. The wounded were evacuated to coalition medical facilities for treatment. The names of the dead and wounded are being withheld pending notification of the next of kin.
Meanwhile, the Defense Department announced today the death of an airman who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Airman 1st Class Eric M. Barnes, 20, of Lorain, Ohio, died June 9 as a result of an improvised-explosive-device attack on an Air Force convoy about 100 miles south of Baghdad. He was assigned to the 90th Logistics Readiness Squadron, F.E. Warren Air Force Base, Wyo.
June 11, 2007 – Three U.S. soldiers were killed and six were wounded when a suicide car bomb struck the checkpoint they were manning south of Baghdad yesterday.
An Iraqi interpreter also was wounded in the attack, which destroyed part of a highway overpass near Mahmoudiya. The wounded were evacuated to coalition medical facilities for treatment. The names of the dead and wounded are being withheld pending notification of the next of kin.
Meanwhile, the Defense Department announced today the death of an airman who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Airman 1st Class Eric M. Barnes, 20, of Lorain, Ohio, died June 9 as a result of an improvised-explosive-device attack on an Air Force convoy about 100 miles south of Baghdad. He was assigned to the 90th Logistics Readiness Squadron, F.E. Warren Air Force Base, Wyo.
12 Detained in Raids; Suicide Bombers Killed in Iraq Ops
American Forces Press Service
June 11, 2007 – Coalition forces detained 12 suspected terrorists during coordinated operations targeting the al Qaeda in Iraq network today. Coalition forces targeted a location southeast of Fallujah where an alleged al Qaeda in Iraq cell leader, known for emplacing improvised explosive devices, was staying. Forces detained six suspected terrorists there.
Forces raided a group of buildings in Tarmiyah in an operation targeting a suspected terrorist who is allegedly a financial emir for al Qaeda in Iraq.
During four other coordinated raids in Baghdad, coalition forces detained five other suspected terrorists linked to an al Qaeda in Iraq emir. The ground force also found and destroyed a cache of weapons at the site.
In other news from Iraq, Multinational Force Iraq officials today condemned yesterday's bombing at the Transportation Department in Tikrit.
"These attacks were directed against Iraqi people and their infrastructure, and clearly show the desperate nature of these attackers intent on disrupting the Iraqi economy and intimidating innocent civilians," the statement read.
Also in Iraq operations:
-- Soldiers stopped a potential suicide-car bomb attack June 10 at Patrol Base Warrior Keep, near Sadr Al-Yusufiyah, Iraq. The soldiers were from 2nd Battalion, 14th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry), out of Fort Drum, N.Y. A driver in a dump truck loaded with homemade explosives was stopped attempting to break through the base's perimeter barriers. Soldiers fired at the truck until it stopped. The driver was wearing a suicide vest.
-- Iraqi police killed two insurgents wearing suicide vests at a checkpoint near an education facility in Baquba on June 9. Two men wearing suicide vests approached the checkpoint. When the first individual failed to yield to warnings, the Iraqi police shot the insurgent. This caused his vest to explode. The concussion of the blast detonated the second vest, killing the other insurgent. A third pedestrian wearing a suicide vest was later killed in the same area. One policeman was injured and later died.
-- Multinational Division Baghdad attack helicopter crews on June 9 destroyed a building where homemade explosives were being produced south of Baghdad. The Apache helicopter crew was from the 1st "Attack" Battalion, 227th Aviation Regiment, 1st Air Cavalry Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division.
-- Attack helicopters engaged and destroyed an ambush site south of Khanan on June 9, killing eight insurgents. Gunmen at the site fired at a coalition forces helicopter. Attack helicopters operating nearby moved into the area, where they saw several insurgents in fighting positions armed with rocket-propelled-grenade launchers and a mounted heavy machine gun. The attack helicopters engaged the ambush site, killing eight and destroying the fighting positions.
--Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers recovered a weapons cache and detained four suspects during a security operation June 9 in the Kamaliyah area of eastern Baghdad. Soldiers with 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division's Company B, 2nd Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, based out of Fort Riley, Kan., recovered 23 120 mm rockets, 21 107 mm rockets, 20 pounds of propellant, three mines, two 155 mm artillery rounds, and more than 150 rounds of assorted ammunition.
(Compiled from Multinational Corps Iraq news releases.)
Article sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have authored books.
June 11, 2007 – Coalition forces detained 12 suspected terrorists during coordinated operations targeting the al Qaeda in Iraq network today. Coalition forces targeted a location southeast of Fallujah where an alleged al Qaeda in Iraq cell leader, known for emplacing improvised explosive devices, was staying. Forces detained six suspected terrorists there.
Forces raided a group of buildings in Tarmiyah in an operation targeting a suspected terrorist who is allegedly a financial emir for al Qaeda in Iraq.
During four other coordinated raids in Baghdad, coalition forces detained five other suspected terrorists linked to an al Qaeda in Iraq emir. The ground force also found and destroyed a cache of weapons at the site.
In other news from Iraq, Multinational Force Iraq officials today condemned yesterday's bombing at the Transportation Department in Tikrit.
"These attacks were directed against Iraqi people and their infrastructure, and clearly show the desperate nature of these attackers intent on disrupting the Iraqi economy and intimidating innocent civilians," the statement read.
Also in Iraq operations:
-- Soldiers stopped a potential suicide-car bomb attack June 10 at Patrol Base Warrior Keep, near Sadr Al-Yusufiyah, Iraq. The soldiers were from 2nd Battalion, 14th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry), out of Fort Drum, N.Y. A driver in a dump truck loaded with homemade explosives was stopped attempting to break through the base's perimeter barriers. Soldiers fired at the truck until it stopped. The driver was wearing a suicide vest.
-- Iraqi police killed two insurgents wearing suicide vests at a checkpoint near an education facility in Baquba on June 9. Two men wearing suicide vests approached the checkpoint. When the first individual failed to yield to warnings, the Iraqi police shot the insurgent. This caused his vest to explode. The concussion of the blast detonated the second vest, killing the other insurgent. A third pedestrian wearing a suicide vest was later killed in the same area. One policeman was injured and later died.
-- Multinational Division Baghdad attack helicopter crews on June 9 destroyed a building where homemade explosives were being produced south of Baghdad. The Apache helicopter crew was from the 1st "Attack" Battalion, 227th Aviation Regiment, 1st Air Cavalry Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division.
-- Attack helicopters engaged and destroyed an ambush site south of Khanan on June 9, killing eight insurgents. Gunmen at the site fired at a coalition forces helicopter. Attack helicopters operating nearby moved into the area, where they saw several insurgents in fighting positions armed with rocket-propelled-grenade launchers and a mounted heavy machine gun. The attack helicopters engaged the ambush site, killing eight and destroying the fighting positions.
--Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers recovered a weapons cache and detained four suspects during a security operation June 9 in the Kamaliyah area of eastern Baghdad. Soldiers with 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division's Company B, 2nd Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, based out of Fort Riley, Kan., recovered 23 120 mm rockets, 21 107 mm rockets, 20 pounds of propellant, three mines, two 155 mm artillery rounds, and more than 150 rounds of assorted ammunition.
(Compiled from Multinational Corps Iraq news releases.)
Article sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have authored books.
CENTCOM Advisor: Extended Deployments Set Growth Conditions in Iraq
By Tim Kilbride
Special to American Forces Press Service
June 12, 2007 – U.S. forces in Iraq are managing deployment schedules to maximize efficiency and generate the greatest momentum for changes taking place to benefit the Iraqi people, a senior enlisted official there said today. A recently announced policy of 15-month deployments for the Army was put in place to mitigate the sharp learning curve demanded of soldiers beginning rotations into Iraq and other locations in the war on terrorism, said Marine Sgt. Maj. Jeffrey A. Morin, the senior enlisted leader for U.S. Central Command.
"The situation on the ground changes so quickly and so drastically from day to day, from week to week, when you first arrive on the ground it does take some time for a unit to become fully effective," he said.
In a six- or 12-month rotation, the 30- to 50-day spin-up period in which troops learn to navigate their environment cuts substantially into overall effectiveness when compounded over multiple divisions and rotations, Morin explained.
A 15-month deployment diffuses the impact of the orientation period and also balances the hand-off time at the end of a rotation, he said.
"You don't want to start things you can't finish toward the end of your cycle," he said. "With the 15-month cycle, you're looking at getting more effective combat power on the ground at any given time."
The other "tactical advantage" to the extended deployment, Morin said, is that with a guaranteed 12 months in the rear afterward, soldiers are able to space out intensive training courses that will benefit them on their next rotation.
The time at home also benefits the soldiers' family lives, Morin said, relieving uncertainty about how long a soldier will be home and allowing families to make firm plans.
"There's a lot more continuity, if you will, for home life now that we did not have before," he said.
While the effect of the extended deployments temporarily hurt morale at the time of the announcement, Morin admitted, the certainty of a guaranteed schedule actually improves morale in the long run.
"When you first tell somebody they're going to be extended, ... morale does dip, morale goes down, because they're going to be there longer than they thought they were going to be," he said.
However, he noted, more impacting was "that unknowing period: 'Were we going to be extended? Were we not?' That did affect morale."
Unlike the Army, Morin explained, the Marine Corps will hold to a seven-month deployment schedule. The reason, he said, is that "the Marine Corps has a different kind of dynamic. ... Everything that we do is geared around deployments."
With ongoing, automatic commitments in Okinawa and with Marine expeditionary units, he said, "We have to be able to have that ability to move all those units kind of on the same cycle."
That rotation is associated with the Navy's ship deployment and maintenance timetables, Morin explained. "That seven months is the best and most efficient way that we can do it," he said.
Despite the abbreviated time in country for Marines in Iraq, Morin noted, the shorter seven-month rotation out of country means that the Marines' familiarity with the ground situation doesn't drop off to the extent it would with a longer rest period.
"Your time off that battlefield is greatly reduced," he said. "Although you've missed seven months of that time, you don't really get too dusty, if you will, because you go straight back in."
The increased effectiveness of the Army and Marine Corps becomes apparent in the positive shifts on the ground in Iraq, Morin said.
"I'd just like to let you know that we are making great progress right now, although you might not see it," he said. "But the behind-scene kind of things that are happening out there at the combat outpost level and at the joint security station level" are encouraging, he said.
With fusion between the Iraqi security forces and coalition forces, Morin said, "we're partnering up together and continuing to prosecute this war against the anti-Iraqi forces."
He called the Iraqi people "great, great partners" in the war. "They are not the enemy," he stressed.
"There are many other players out there that want to be the enemy, but the Iraqi people are our friends," Morin said. "And when we are partnered together with them, as we are right now, success down the road -- and I'll never the use the word 'win,' because I really don't know what winning is yet -- but achieving success in that country is coming step by step."
(Tim Kilbride is assigned to New Media, American Forces Information Service.)
Article sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have authored books.
Special to American Forces Press Service
June 12, 2007 – U.S. forces in Iraq are managing deployment schedules to maximize efficiency and generate the greatest momentum for changes taking place to benefit the Iraqi people, a senior enlisted official there said today. A recently announced policy of 15-month deployments for the Army was put in place to mitigate the sharp learning curve demanded of soldiers beginning rotations into Iraq and other locations in the war on terrorism, said Marine Sgt. Maj. Jeffrey A. Morin, the senior enlisted leader for U.S. Central Command.
"The situation on the ground changes so quickly and so drastically from day to day, from week to week, when you first arrive on the ground it does take some time for a unit to become fully effective," he said.
In a six- or 12-month rotation, the 30- to 50-day spin-up period in which troops learn to navigate their environment cuts substantially into overall effectiveness when compounded over multiple divisions and rotations, Morin explained.
A 15-month deployment diffuses the impact of the orientation period and also balances the hand-off time at the end of a rotation, he said.
"You don't want to start things you can't finish toward the end of your cycle," he said. "With the 15-month cycle, you're looking at getting more effective combat power on the ground at any given time."
The other "tactical advantage" to the extended deployment, Morin said, is that with a guaranteed 12 months in the rear afterward, soldiers are able to space out intensive training courses that will benefit them on their next rotation.
The time at home also benefits the soldiers' family lives, Morin said, relieving uncertainty about how long a soldier will be home and allowing families to make firm plans.
"There's a lot more continuity, if you will, for home life now that we did not have before," he said.
While the effect of the extended deployments temporarily hurt morale at the time of the announcement, Morin admitted, the certainty of a guaranteed schedule actually improves morale in the long run.
"When you first tell somebody they're going to be extended, ... morale does dip, morale goes down, because they're going to be there longer than they thought they were going to be," he said.
However, he noted, more impacting was "that unknowing period: 'Were we going to be extended? Were we not?' That did affect morale."
Unlike the Army, Morin explained, the Marine Corps will hold to a seven-month deployment schedule. The reason, he said, is that "the Marine Corps has a different kind of dynamic. ... Everything that we do is geared around deployments."
With ongoing, automatic commitments in Okinawa and with Marine expeditionary units, he said, "We have to be able to have that ability to move all those units kind of on the same cycle."
That rotation is associated with the Navy's ship deployment and maintenance timetables, Morin explained. "That seven months is the best and most efficient way that we can do it," he said.
Despite the abbreviated time in country for Marines in Iraq, Morin noted, the shorter seven-month rotation out of country means that the Marines' familiarity with the ground situation doesn't drop off to the extent it would with a longer rest period.
"Your time off that battlefield is greatly reduced," he said. "Although you've missed seven months of that time, you don't really get too dusty, if you will, because you go straight back in."
The increased effectiveness of the Army and Marine Corps becomes apparent in the positive shifts on the ground in Iraq, Morin said.
"I'd just like to let you know that we are making great progress right now, although you might not see it," he said. "But the behind-scene kind of things that are happening out there at the combat outpost level and at the joint security station level" are encouraging, he said.
With fusion between the Iraqi security forces and coalition forces, Morin said, "we're partnering up together and continuing to prosecute this war against the anti-Iraqi forces."
He called the Iraqi people "great, great partners" in the war. "They are not the enemy," he stressed.
"There are many other players out there that want to be the enemy, but the Iraqi people are our friends," Morin said. "And when we are partnered together with them, as we are right now, success down the road -- and I'll never the use the word 'win,' because I really don't know what winning is yet -- but achieving success in that country is coming step by step."
(Tim Kilbride is assigned to New Media, American Forces Information Service.)
Article sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have authored books.
DoD Identifies Army Casualties
The Department of Defense announced today the death of three soldiers who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. They died June 10 in Karbala, Iraq, of wounds suffered from an improvised explosive device.
Killed were:
Cpl. Llythaniele Fender, 21, of Medical Lake, Wash. He was assigned to the 5th Battalion, 5th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, Fort Lewis, Wash.
Cpl. Meresebang Ngiraked, 21, of Koror, Republic of Palau. He was assigned to the 5th Battalion, 5th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, Fort Lewis, Wash.
Spc. Adam G. Herold, 23, of Omaha, Neb. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 377th Parachute Field Artillery Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 25th Infantry Division, Fort Richardson, Alaska.
For more information related to this release the media may contact the Fort Lewis public affairs office at (253) 967-0152 or (253) 967-0147 in regard to Fender and Ngiraked, and the U.S. Army Alaska public affairs office at (907) 384-1542 in regard to Herold.
Killed were:
Cpl. Llythaniele Fender, 21, of Medical Lake, Wash. He was assigned to the 5th Battalion, 5th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, Fort Lewis, Wash.
Cpl. Meresebang Ngiraked, 21, of Koror, Republic of Palau. He was assigned to the 5th Battalion, 5th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, Fort Lewis, Wash.
Spc. Adam G. Herold, 23, of Omaha, Neb. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 377th Parachute Field Artillery Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 25th Infantry Division, Fort Richardson, Alaska.
For more information related to this release the media may contact the Fort Lewis public affairs office at (253) 967-0152 or (253) 967-0147 in regard to Fender and Ngiraked, and the U.S. Army Alaska public affairs office at (907) 384-1542 in regard to Herold.
Tuesday, June 12, 2007
Air Force Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of an airman who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Airman 1st Class Eric M. Barnes, 20, of Lorain, Ohio, died June 10 as result of an improvised explosive device attack on an Air Force convoy about 100 miles south of Baghdad, Iraq. He was assigned to the 90th Logistics Readiness Squadron, F.E. Warren Air Force Base, Wyo.
For more information in regard to this release the media can contact the F.E. Warren Air Force Base Public Affairs office at (307) 773-3362.
Airman 1st Class Eric M. Barnes, 20, of Lorain, Ohio, died June 10 as result of an improvised explosive device attack on an Air Force convoy about 100 miles south of Baghdad, Iraq. He was assigned to the 90th Logistics Readiness Squadron, F.E. Warren Air Force Base, Wyo.
For more information in regard to this release the media can contact the F.E. Warren Air Force Base Public Affairs office at (307) 773-3362.
Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
Sgt. Charles E. Wyckoff Jr., 28, of Chula Vista, Calif., died June 6 in Helmand Province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered from enemy small arms fire. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Bragg, N.C.
For more information related to this release the media may contact the 82nd Airborne Division public affairs office at (910) 432-0661.
Sgt. Charles E. Wyckoff Jr., 28, of Chula Vista, Calif., died June 6 in Helmand Province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered from enemy small arms fire. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Bragg, N.C.
For more information related to this release the media may contact the 82nd Airborne Division public affairs office at (910) 432-0661.
Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Pvt. Scott A. Miller, 20, of Casper, Wyo., died June 9 in Baqubah, Iraq, of wounds suffered from enemy small arms fire. He was assigned to the 5th Battalion, 20th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team), Fort Lewis, Wash.
For more information related to this release the media may contact the Fort Lewis public affairs office at (253) 967-0152 or (253) 967-0147.
Pvt. Scott A. Miller, 20, of Casper, Wyo., died June 9 in Baqubah, Iraq, of wounds suffered from enemy small arms fire. He was assigned to the 5th Battalion, 20th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team), Fort Lewis, Wash.
For more information related to this release the media may contact the Fort Lewis public affairs office at (253) 967-0152 or (253) 967-0147.
Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. Dariek E. Dehn, 32, of Spangle, Wash., died June 2 in Sharkat, Iraq, of wounds suffered from an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 6th Squadron, 9th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas.
For more information related to this release the media may contact the Fort Hood public affairs office at (254) 287-9993; after hours (254) 291-2591.
Sgt. Dariek E. Dehn, 32, of Spangle, Wash., died June 2 in Sharkat, Iraq, of wounds suffered from an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 6th Squadron, 9th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas.
For more information related to this release the media may contact the Fort Hood public affairs office at (254) 287-9993; after hours (254) 291-2591.
Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. Cory M. Endlich, 23, of Massillon, Ohio, died June 9 in Taji, Iraq, of wounds suffered from enemy small arms fire. He was assigned to the 2nd Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team), Fort Lewis, Wash.
For more information related to this release the media may contact the Fort Lewis public affairs office at (253) 967-0152 or (253) 967-0147.
Sgt. Cory M. Endlich, 23, of Massillon, Ohio, died June 9 in Taji, Iraq, of wounds suffered from enemy small arms fire. He was assigned to the 2nd Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team), Fort Lewis, Wash.
For more information related to this release the media may contact the Fort Lewis public affairs office at (253) 967-0152 or (253) 967-0147.
Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Staff Sgt. Brian M. Long, 32, of Burns, Wyo., died June 10 in Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds suffered from an explosive ordnance. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 3rd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team), Fort Lewis, Wash.
For more information related to this release the media may contact the Fort Lewis public affairs office at (253) 967-0152 or (253) 967-0147.
Staff Sgt. Brian M. Long, 32, of Burns, Wyo., died June 10 in Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds suffered from an explosive ordnance. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 3rd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team), Fort Lewis, Wash.
For more information related to this release the media may contact the Fort Lewis public affairs office at (253) 967-0152 or (253) 967-0147.
Sunday, June 10, 2007
Afghan Civilians Aid Police, Coalition
American Forces Press Service
June 10, 2007 – A tip from citizens led Afghan National Police, along with coalition forces, to a munitions cache 15 kilometers southeast of Chamkani in Afghanistan's Paktya province yesterday, military officials said. Afghan village elders informed Chamkani police of a possible improvised explosive device facilitator operating in the area. Police located and searched the suspect's compound, where they discovered an underground tunnel containing 30 Afghan National Police uniforms, more than 30 improvised explosive devices, 25 mortar rounds, 18 rocket-propelled grenade rounds and four RPG launchers. All serviceable munitions were recovered, but the IED facilitator was not found.
Elsewhere yesterday, Afghan and coalition forces conducted an operation in the Shahjoy and Nawa districts in Zabul province that erupted into a firefight resulting in several al Qaeda and Taliban fighters killed and five militants detained.
Credible intelligence led the forces to two separate compounds suspected of housing several al Qaeda and Taliban fighters, officials said. The joint force approached the compounds and immediately began taking small-arms, machine-gun and rocket-propelled grenade fire from a nearby hillside. A two-hour firefight followed, with Afghan and coalition forces defeating the enemy forces and securing the area.
No civilians were injured in the operation.
"Al Qaeda and Taliban forces ambushed coalition forces to no avail," said Army Maj. Chris Belcher, a Combined Joint Task Force 82 spokesman. "Despite the enemy's best efforts, they didn't succeed in killing any Afghan or coalition forces."
A search of the area following the firefight revealed several caches of small arms, automatic weapons, ammunition, rocket-propelled grenades and other weaponry. The weapons were taken to a safe distance and destroyed.
The five detainees will be questioned as to their identities and involvement in militant activities.
Meanwhile, in the Deh Chopan district of Zabul province, Afghan national security and coalition forces on a combat security patrol prevented enemy fighters from attacking a group of Afghans who were gathering for a shura, a type of council meeting.
The combined patrol foiled the imminent attack after identifying more than a dozen enemy fighters carrying high-powered rifles and 82 mm mortar tubes and rounds near the village of Baylogh. In an attempt to escape, the enemy fighters moved north from the village into mountainous terrain. Coalition aircraft were requested and fired munitions at the fleeing enemy fighters, killing several of them.
No Afghan civilians were injured during the engagement.
"Enemy fighters are no match for the skill and determination of Afghan national security and coalition forces," Belcher said. "We will continue to assist and advise ANSF in order to enhance the Afghan government's ability to maintain stability in the region."
During operations June 8, Afghan civilians aided soldiers from the 209th Afghan National Army Corps along with coalition forces in recovering a large munitions cache in the Marmol district of Balkh. The cache included 52 cases of machine-gun ammunition, 35 cases of anti-aircraft ammunition, 92 107 mm rockets and 51 82 mm mortar rounds. The munitions cache was hidden in several small caves along a ridgeline. After conducting an inventory of the cache, ANA soldiers removed all of the serviceable ordnance and the remainder was blown up in place.
Afghan civilians who facilitate the recovery and turn-in of munitions caches are compensated for their efforts through the Small Rewards Program, Belcher said. The SRP was created to encourage and compensate Afghan civilians for their efforts to rid the country of weapons used by insurgent and foreign fighters.
"Senior Afghan elders have taken an active role in improving the security and peace within their villages by facilitating the recovery of munitions caches," said Belcher. "Their involvement with Afghan national security and coalition forces is crucial to rid the Afghan government of its enemies."
(Compiled from Combined Joint Task Force 82 news releases.)
Article sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have authored books.
June 10, 2007 – A tip from citizens led Afghan National Police, along with coalition forces, to a munitions cache 15 kilometers southeast of Chamkani in Afghanistan's Paktya province yesterday, military officials said. Afghan village elders informed Chamkani police of a possible improvised explosive device facilitator operating in the area. Police located and searched the suspect's compound, where they discovered an underground tunnel containing 30 Afghan National Police uniforms, more than 30 improvised explosive devices, 25 mortar rounds, 18 rocket-propelled grenade rounds and four RPG launchers. All serviceable munitions were recovered, but the IED facilitator was not found.
Elsewhere yesterday, Afghan and coalition forces conducted an operation in the Shahjoy and Nawa districts in Zabul province that erupted into a firefight resulting in several al Qaeda and Taliban fighters killed and five militants detained.
Credible intelligence led the forces to two separate compounds suspected of housing several al Qaeda and Taliban fighters, officials said. The joint force approached the compounds and immediately began taking small-arms, machine-gun and rocket-propelled grenade fire from a nearby hillside. A two-hour firefight followed, with Afghan and coalition forces defeating the enemy forces and securing the area.
No civilians were injured in the operation.
"Al Qaeda and Taliban forces ambushed coalition forces to no avail," said Army Maj. Chris Belcher, a Combined Joint Task Force 82 spokesman. "Despite the enemy's best efforts, they didn't succeed in killing any Afghan or coalition forces."
A search of the area following the firefight revealed several caches of small arms, automatic weapons, ammunition, rocket-propelled grenades and other weaponry. The weapons were taken to a safe distance and destroyed.
The five detainees will be questioned as to their identities and involvement in militant activities.
Meanwhile, in the Deh Chopan district of Zabul province, Afghan national security and coalition forces on a combat security patrol prevented enemy fighters from attacking a group of Afghans who were gathering for a shura, a type of council meeting.
The combined patrol foiled the imminent attack after identifying more than a dozen enemy fighters carrying high-powered rifles and 82 mm mortar tubes and rounds near the village of Baylogh. In an attempt to escape, the enemy fighters moved north from the village into mountainous terrain. Coalition aircraft were requested and fired munitions at the fleeing enemy fighters, killing several of them.
No Afghan civilians were injured during the engagement.
"Enemy fighters are no match for the skill and determination of Afghan national security and coalition forces," Belcher said. "We will continue to assist and advise ANSF in order to enhance the Afghan government's ability to maintain stability in the region."
During operations June 8, Afghan civilians aided soldiers from the 209th Afghan National Army Corps along with coalition forces in recovering a large munitions cache in the Marmol district of Balkh. The cache included 52 cases of machine-gun ammunition, 35 cases of anti-aircraft ammunition, 92 107 mm rockets and 51 82 mm mortar rounds. The munitions cache was hidden in several small caves along a ridgeline. After conducting an inventory of the cache, ANA soldiers removed all of the serviceable ordnance and the remainder was blown up in place.
Afghan civilians who facilitate the recovery and turn-in of munitions caches are compensated for their efforts through the Small Rewards Program, Belcher said. The SRP was created to encourage and compensate Afghan civilians for their efforts to rid the country of weapons used by insurgent and foreign fighters.
"Senior Afghan elders have taken an active role in improving the security and peace within their villages by facilitating the recovery of munitions caches," said Belcher. "Their involvement with Afghan national security and coalition forces is crucial to rid the Afghan government of its enemies."
(Compiled from Combined Joint Task Force 82 news releases.)
Article sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have authored books.
Combined Forces Kill One, Detain 13; Car Bombs Damage Clinic, Mosques
American Forces Press Service
June 10, 2007 – Combined forces killed one terrorist and detained 13 suspected terrorists during the past few days in Iraq, military officials reported. Forces also responded to attacks on a medical clinic and two mosques. Coalition forces captured six suspected terrorists today during operations that continue to deny safe haven to members of the al Qaeda in Iraq terrorist network, military officials said.
Based on information gained during a May 27 operation, coalition forces targeted a location in Fallujah looking for an individual suspected of recruiting for al Qaeda. Officials said the suspected jihad leader is known for using "join or die" sermons and indoctrination ceremonies where those who refuse to swear allegiance are killed. Coalition forces detained one suspected terrorist associated with the leader, military officials said.
In Mosul, two coordinated operations netted three suspected terrorists tied into the al Qaeda in Iraq network. One of the suspects allegedly is a recruiting emir for the terrorist network in Mosul, while another is suspected of facilitating the movement of foreign fighters for al Qaeda in Iraq, officials said.
Southeast of Fallujah, coalition forces detained two suspected terrorists for their alleged involvement with a senior al Qaeda in Iraq leader known for placing improvised explosive devices and coordinating terrorist attacks.
"We're relentlessly attacking the al Qaeda network to deny terrorists the ability to hide among the Iraqi people and spread their jihadist propaganda," said Lt. Col. Christopher Garver, Multinational Force Iraq spokesman. "The Iraqi people are choosing their own future, and it does not include terrorism."
In Baghdad yesterday, coalition forces killed one terrorist and detained three suspected terrorists during operations targeting secret cell network operations, military officials said.
The captured insurgents are believed to be members of the secret cell terrorist network known for facilitating the transport of weapons and explosively formed penetrators from Iran to Iraq, as well as brining militants from Iraq to Iran for terrorist training.
As coalition forces moved to the targeted building, two terrorists on the roof drew their weapons to engage the ground force. Coalition forces, responding in self defense, engaged the armed terrorists, wounding them. Officials said one terrorist died and the other was taken to a military medical facility for treatment.
Two more suspects were detained by coalition forces at the scene. Both detainees and the wounded terrorist tested positive for explosives residue.
Intelligence reports indicated the terrorist who died was a mid-level facilitator for the secret cell network, military officials said.
"We will kill or capture terrorists where they hide," Garver said. "Denying terrorists safe havens in Iraq is a key step toward providing Iraq and its people the opportunity for a secure and stable future."
Elsewhere, a car bomb detonated near an Iraqi National Police patrol in the Adhamiyah security district of the Iraqi capital, officials said. Two policemen were killed and one was wounded. A third police officer was killed from small-arms fire that occurred immediately following the explosion.
A coalition explosive ordnance team responded to the scene. There were no civilian casualties, officials reported.
Near Tikrit, Iraqi army forces captured four insurgent cell leaders June 8 who are accused of conducting improvised explosive device attacks, sniper attacks and kidnappings against civilians and Iraqi and coalition forces, military officials reported.
The four captured insurgents also allegedly are connected to three sniper attacks earlier this year and are believed to be responsible for conducting surveillance of Iraqi and coalition forces.
Acting on tips from local citizens, Iraqi forces along with coalition advisors entered the targeted house and captured the four suspects without incident, officials said.
Meanwhile, a suspected suicide truck bomb with about 400 pounds of explosives detonated in front of a Shiia Turkomen mosque, killing at least 17 and wounded 20 others in the city of Daquq, south of Kirkuk, military officials reported.
The blast occurred during midday prayer. At around the same time, less than three blocks from the mosque, a second suicide bomber detonated several munitions inside a medical clinic, killing himself and another individual, officials said.
Soldiers from Company D, 2-35th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division on patrol in the area moved to secure the site. An explosive ordnance disposal team conducted post-blast analysis, officials said.
"Both of these attacks demonstrate the absolute heartless and cowardly nature of the terrorists. We suspect the clinic attack was used to prevent those injured in the mosque attack from being cared for quickly," said Col. Gary Patton, chief of staff, 25th Infantry Division.
The blast heavily damaged the mosque, destroying its dome and entrance. Officials also reported major damage to the medical clinic.
Meanwhile, Iraqi National police responded to an attack on a Sunni mosque in the Rashid District in southwest Baghdad, military officials said.
Police cordoned off the surrounding area after the Al Fattah Pasha mosque had been destroyed by an explosive device. The mosque, located in Bayaa, was heavily damaged during the explosion. Officials said there were no casualties.
Multinational Division Baghdad and National police forces secured the area and gathered evidence following the attack.
(Compiled from Multinational Corps and Multinational Force Iraq news releases.)
Article sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have authored books.
June 10, 2007 – Combined forces killed one terrorist and detained 13 suspected terrorists during the past few days in Iraq, military officials reported. Forces also responded to attacks on a medical clinic and two mosques. Coalition forces captured six suspected terrorists today during operations that continue to deny safe haven to members of the al Qaeda in Iraq terrorist network, military officials said.
Based on information gained during a May 27 operation, coalition forces targeted a location in Fallujah looking for an individual suspected of recruiting for al Qaeda. Officials said the suspected jihad leader is known for using "join or die" sermons and indoctrination ceremonies where those who refuse to swear allegiance are killed. Coalition forces detained one suspected terrorist associated with the leader, military officials said.
In Mosul, two coordinated operations netted three suspected terrorists tied into the al Qaeda in Iraq network. One of the suspects allegedly is a recruiting emir for the terrorist network in Mosul, while another is suspected of facilitating the movement of foreign fighters for al Qaeda in Iraq, officials said.
Southeast of Fallujah, coalition forces detained two suspected terrorists for their alleged involvement with a senior al Qaeda in Iraq leader known for placing improvised explosive devices and coordinating terrorist attacks.
"We're relentlessly attacking the al Qaeda network to deny terrorists the ability to hide among the Iraqi people and spread their jihadist propaganda," said Lt. Col. Christopher Garver, Multinational Force Iraq spokesman. "The Iraqi people are choosing their own future, and it does not include terrorism."
In Baghdad yesterday, coalition forces killed one terrorist and detained three suspected terrorists during operations targeting secret cell network operations, military officials said.
The captured insurgents are believed to be members of the secret cell terrorist network known for facilitating the transport of weapons and explosively formed penetrators from Iran to Iraq, as well as brining militants from Iraq to Iran for terrorist training.
As coalition forces moved to the targeted building, two terrorists on the roof drew their weapons to engage the ground force. Coalition forces, responding in self defense, engaged the armed terrorists, wounding them. Officials said one terrorist died and the other was taken to a military medical facility for treatment.
Two more suspects were detained by coalition forces at the scene. Both detainees and the wounded terrorist tested positive for explosives residue.
Intelligence reports indicated the terrorist who died was a mid-level facilitator for the secret cell network, military officials said.
"We will kill or capture terrorists where they hide," Garver said. "Denying terrorists safe havens in Iraq is a key step toward providing Iraq and its people the opportunity for a secure and stable future."
Elsewhere, a car bomb detonated near an Iraqi National Police patrol in the Adhamiyah security district of the Iraqi capital, officials said. Two policemen were killed and one was wounded. A third police officer was killed from small-arms fire that occurred immediately following the explosion.
A coalition explosive ordnance team responded to the scene. There were no civilian casualties, officials reported.
Near Tikrit, Iraqi army forces captured four insurgent cell leaders June 8 who are accused of conducting improvised explosive device attacks, sniper attacks and kidnappings against civilians and Iraqi and coalition forces, military officials reported.
The four captured insurgents also allegedly are connected to three sniper attacks earlier this year and are believed to be responsible for conducting surveillance of Iraqi and coalition forces.
Acting on tips from local citizens, Iraqi forces along with coalition advisors entered the targeted house and captured the four suspects without incident, officials said.
Meanwhile, a suspected suicide truck bomb with about 400 pounds of explosives detonated in front of a Shiia Turkomen mosque, killing at least 17 and wounded 20 others in the city of Daquq, south of Kirkuk, military officials reported.
The blast occurred during midday prayer. At around the same time, less than three blocks from the mosque, a second suicide bomber detonated several munitions inside a medical clinic, killing himself and another individual, officials said.
Soldiers from Company D, 2-35th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division on patrol in the area moved to secure the site. An explosive ordnance disposal team conducted post-blast analysis, officials said.
"Both of these attacks demonstrate the absolute heartless and cowardly nature of the terrorists. We suspect the clinic attack was used to prevent those injured in the mosque attack from being cared for quickly," said Col. Gary Patton, chief of staff, 25th Infantry Division.
The blast heavily damaged the mosque, destroying its dome and entrance. Officials also reported major damage to the medical clinic.
Meanwhile, Iraqi National police responded to an attack on a Sunni mosque in the Rashid District in southwest Baghdad, military officials said.
Police cordoned off the surrounding area after the Al Fattah Pasha mosque had been destroyed by an explosive device. The mosque, located in Bayaa, was heavily damaged during the explosion. Officials said there were no casualties.
Multinational Division Baghdad and National police forces secured the area and gathered evidence following the attack.
(Compiled from Multinational Corps and Multinational Force Iraq news releases.)
Article sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have authored books.
Airman, Soldiers Killed in Iraq, Previous Casualties Identified
American Forces Press Service
June 10, 2007 – A U.S. airman and soldier were killed today, and two U.S. soldiers were killed yesterday in Iraq, military officials reported.
-- The airman, assigned to the 586th Air Expeditionary Group, was killed today during convoy operations in southern Iraq when an improvised explosive device detonated and struck his vehicle.
-- A Multi-National Division Baghdad soldier was killed today during combat operations in a southern section of Baghdad.
-- A Task Force Lightning soldier and a Multinational Division North soldier died yesterday as a result of injuries suffered from small-arms fire while conducting operations in Diyala province. The servicemembers' names are being withheld pending next-of-kin notification.
Meanwhile, the Defense Department has identified an airman and 15 soldiers who died as a result of enemy action in Iraq or Afghanistan.
-- Air Force Senior Airman William N. Newman, 23, of Kingston Springs, Tenn., died June 7 south of Balad, Iraq, of wounds suffered from an improvised explosive device attack. He was assigned to the Explosive Ordinance Disposal Team of the 15th Civil Engineer Squadron, Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii.
-- Army Sgt. 1st Class Greg L. Sutton, 38, of Spring Lake, N.C., died June 6 in Baghdad of wounds suffered from an improvised explosive device attack. He was assigned to the 212th Military Transition Team, 1st Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kan.
-- Army Staff Sgt. Timothy B. Cole Jr., 28, of Missouri City, Texas, died June 6 in Sadah, Iraq, of wounds suffered from an improvised explosive device attack. He was assigned to the 5th Squadron, 73rd Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Bragg, N.C.
-- Army Sgt. Matthew Soper, 25, of Kalamazoo, Mich., died June 6 in Bayji, Iraq, of wounds suffered from an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 1461st Transportation Company (Combat Heavy Equipment), Michigan Army National Guard, Jackson, Mich.
-- Army Pfc. Shawn D. Gajdos, 25, of Grand Rapids, Mich., died June 6 in Baghdad of wounds suffered when his unit was attacked by insurgents using improvised explosive devices and small-arms fire. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley.
-- Army Sgt. Andrews J. Higgins, 28, of Hayward, Calif., died June 5 in Baqubah, Iraq, of wounds suffered when his unit came in contact with enemy forces using small-arms fire. He was assigned to the 5th Battalion, 20th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team), Fort Lewis, Wash.
-- Army Pfc. Timothy R. Vimoto, 19, of Fort Campbell, Ky., died June 5 in Korengal Valley, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when his unit was attacked by insurgents using small-arms fire. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment (Airborne), 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team, Camp Ederle, Italy.
-- Army Pfc. Justin A. Verdeja, 20, of La Puente, Calif., died June 5 in Baghdad of wounds suffered when his unit was attacked by insurgents using small-arms fire. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division, Fort Carson, Colo.
-- Army Staff Sgt. Greg P. Gagarin, 38, of Los Angeles; Army Sgt. James C. Akin, 23, of Albuquerque, N.M.; Army Sgt. Tyler J. Kritz, 21, of Eagle River, Wis.; and Army Sgt. Robert A. Surber, 24, of Inverness, Fla., died June 3 in Thania, Iraq, of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near their vehicle. They were assigned to the 1st Battalion, 37th Field Artillery Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team), Fort Lewis.
-- Army Sgt. Kimel L. Watt, 21, of Brooklyn, N.Y., died June 3 in Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 7th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Schweinfurt, Germany.
-- Army Sgt. Caleb P. Christopher, 25, of Chandler, Ariz., died June 3 in Baghdad of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas. -
- Army Spc. Jacob M. Lowell, 22, of New Lenox, Ill., died June 2 near Gowardesh, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when his unit came in contact with enemy forces using a rocket-propelled grenade and small-arms fire. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment (Air Assault), 173rd Airborne Brigade, Camp Ederle, Italy.
-- Army Staff Sgt. Juan F. Campos, 27, of McAllen, Texas, died June 1 at Brooke Army Medical Center, San Antonio, of wounds suffered when his unit was attacked by insurgents using improvised explosive devices and rocket-propelled grenades May 14 in Baghdad. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Schweinfurt, Germany.
(Compiled from Multinational Corps Iraq, U.S. Central Command Air Forces and Defense Department news releases.)
June 10, 2007 – A U.S. airman and soldier were killed today, and two U.S. soldiers were killed yesterday in Iraq, military officials reported.
-- The airman, assigned to the 586th Air Expeditionary Group, was killed today during convoy operations in southern Iraq when an improvised explosive device detonated and struck his vehicle.
-- A Multi-National Division Baghdad soldier was killed today during combat operations in a southern section of Baghdad.
-- A Task Force Lightning soldier and a Multinational Division North soldier died yesterday as a result of injuries suffered from small-arms fire while conducting operations in Diyala province. The servicemembers' names are being withheld pending next-of-kin notification.
Meanwhile, the Defense Department has identified an airman and 15 soldiers who died as a result of enemy action in Iraq or Afghanistan.
-- Air Force Senior Airman William N. Newman, 23, of Kingston Springs, Tenn., died June 7 south of Balad, Iraq, of wounds suffered from an improvised explosive device attack. He was assigned to the Explosive Ordinance Disposal Team of the 15th Civil Engineer Squadron, Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii.
-- Army Sgt. 1st Class Greg L. Sutton, 38, of Spring Lake, N.C., died June 6 in Baghdad of wounds suffered from an improvised explosive device attack. He was assigned to the 212th Military Transition Team, 1st Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kan.
-- Army Staff Sgt. Timothy B. Cole Jr., 28, of Missouri City, Texas, died June 6 in Sadah, Iraq, of wounds suffered from an improvised explosive device attack. He was assigned to the 5th Squadron, 73rd Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Bragg, N.C.
-- Army Sgt. Matthew Soper, 25, of Kalamazoo, Mich., died June 6 in Bayji, Iraq, of wounds suffered from an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 1461st Transportation Company (Combat Heavy Equipment), Michigan Army National Guard, Jackson, Mich.
-- Army Pfc. Shawn D. Gajdos, 25, of Grand Rapids, Mich., died June 6 in Baghdad of wounds suffered when his unit was attacked by insurgents using improvised explosive devices and small-arms fire. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley.
-- Army Sgt. Andrews J. Higgins, 28, of Hayward, Calif., died June 5 in Baqubah, Iraq, of wounds suffered when his unit came in contact with enemy forces using small-arms fire. He was assigned to the 5th Battalion, 20th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team), Fort Lewis, Wash.
-- Army Pfc. Timothy R. Vimoto, 19, of Fort Campbell, Ky., died June 5 in Korengal Valley, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when his unit was attacked by insurgents using small-arms fire. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment (Airborne), 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team, Camp Ederle, Italy.
-- Army Pfc. Justin A. Verdeja, 20, of La Puente, Calif., died June 5 in Baghdad of wounds suffered when his unit was attacked by insurgents using small-arms fire. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division, Fort Carson, Colo.
-- Army Staff Sgt. Greg P. Gagarin, 38, of Los Angeles; Army Sgt. James C. Akin, 23, of Albuquerque, N.M.; Army Sgt. Tyler J. Kritz, 21, of Eagle River, Wis.; and Army Sgt. Robert A. Surber, 24, of Inverness, Fla., died June 3 in Thania, Iraq, of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near their vehicle. They were assigned to the 1st Battalion, 37th Field Artillery Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division (Stryker Brigade Combat Team), Fort Lewis.
-- Army Sgt. Kimel L. Watt, 21, of Brooklyn, N.Y., died June 3 in Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 7th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Schweinfurt, Germany.
-- Army Sgt. Caleb P. Christopher, 25, of Chandler, Ariz., died June 3 in Baghdad of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas. -
- Army Spc. Jacob M. Lowell, 22, of New Lenox, Ill., died June 2 near Gowardesh, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when his unit came in contact with enemy forces using a rocket-propelled grenade and small-arms fire. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment (Air Assault), 173rd Airborne Brigade, Camp Ederle, Italy.
-- Army Staff Sgt. Juan F. Campos, 27, of McAllen, Texas, died June 1 at Brooke Army Medical Center, San Antonio, of wounds suffered when his unit was attacked by insurgents using improvised explosive devices and rocket-propelled grenades May 14 in Baghdad. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Schweinfurt, Germany.
(Compiled from Multinational Corps Iraq, U.S. Central Command Air Forces and Defense Department news releases.)
Saturday, June 09, 2007
Air Force Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of an airman who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Senior Airman William N. Newman, 23, of Kingston Springs, Tenn., died June 7 south of Balad, Iraq, of wounds suffered from an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the Explosive Ordinance Disposal Team of the 15th Civil Engineer Squadron, Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii.
For more information in regard to this release the media can contact the Hickam Air Force Base Public Affairs Office at (808) 449-6368.
Senior Airman William N. Newman, 23, of Kingston Springs, Tenn., died June 7 south of Balad, Iraq, of wounds suffered from an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the Explosive Ordinance Disposal Team of the 15th Civil Engineer Squadron, Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii.
For more information in regard to this release the media can contact the Hickam Air Force Base Public Affairs Office at (808) 449-6368.
Air Force Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of an airman who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Senior Airman William N. Newman, 23, of Kingston Springs, Tenn., died June 7 south of Balad, Iraq, of wounds suffered from an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the Explosive Ordinance Disposal Team of the 15th Civil Engineer Squadron, Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii.
For more information in regard to this release the media can contact the Hickam Air Force Base Public Affairs Office at (808) 449-6368.
Senior Airman William N. Newman, 23, of Kingston Springs, Tenn., died June 7 south of Balad, Iraq, of wounds suffered from an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the Explosive Ordinance Disposal Team of the 15th Civil Engineer Squadron, Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii.
For more information in regard to this release the media can contact the Hickam Air Force Base Public Affairs Office at (808) 449-6368.
Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. 1st Class Greg L. Sutton, 38, of Spring Lake, N.C., died June 6 in Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds sustained from an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 212th Military Transition Team, 1st Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kan.
For more information related to this release, the media may contact the Fort Riley public affairs office at (785)239-3410.
Sgt. 1st Class Greg L. Sutton, 38, of Spring Lake, N.C., died June 6 in Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds sustained from an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 212th Military Transition Team, 1st Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kan.
For more information related to this release, the media may contact the Fort Riley public affairs office at (785)239-3410.
Friday, June 08, 2007
Combined Forces Kill 21 Insurgents, Detain 20; Car Bombs Damage Mosques
American Forces Press Service
June 8, 2007 – Coalition and Iraqi forces have killed 21 insurgents, detained 20 suspects, and discovered several weapons caches over the past few days in Iraq, military officials reported. Also, two car bombs detonated near Abu Ghraib yesterday, causing major damage to two mosques. Coalition forces killed one terrorist and detained 12 suspected terrorists during operations targeting the al Qaeda in Iraq network today in Anbar province.
Based on information gained from an operation May 27, coalition forces raided several buildings northeast of Fallujah. After the coalition forces announced their presence through an interpreter, one terrorist outside the building threw a hand grenade at the ground forces. Coalition forces took appropriate self-defense measures and engaged the armed terrorist with small-arms fire, killing him.
Coalition forces searched the buildings and detained 12 suspected terrorists for their alleged involvement in the al Qaeda in Iraq network. Information gained from earlier operations indicates the suspects are involved in indoctrination for al Qaeda in Iraq. In one ceremony conducted by the network, those who declined to join the terrorist group were killed.
"Terrorists have no place in the future of Iraq, and their elimination will help allow the people of Iraq to choose a secure future," said Army Lt. Col. Christopher Garver, Multinational Force Iraq spokesman.
In another operation, Iraqi national police prevented a suicide bomber driving a mini-bus from entering Baghdad's Sadr City neighborhood yesterday.
While waiting in line to enter Sadr City, the driver of the vehicle detonated the car bomb 200 meters from the checkpoint, killing four Iraqi civilians and wounding eight others. No Iraqi security forces were injured in the explosion. Following the blast, Iraqi explosive ordnance teams defused additional unexploded munitions in the vehicle.
Elsewhere, two car bombs detonated, causing major damage to two mosques near Abu Ghraib yesterday.
The first attack occurred at 10:56 a.m., near an Iraqi army traffic-control point. A suicide bomber in a tractor trailer detonated what explosive ordnance teams estimated to be 800-1,000 pounds of explosives, killing two Iraqi army soldiers and one Iraqi resident and wounding four other soldiers.
The blast severely damaged two nearby mosques. A Shiia mosque was nearly 90 percent destroyed in the attack, while a nearby Sunni mosque was heavily damaged, as well. Other buildings, including a school and several shops, also were damaged in the attack. Eight civilian vehicles were also damaged.
In the second attack, at about 11 a.m., a suicide bomber detonated a vehicle about four blocks away from the first attack. One Iraqi army soldier was killed and another injured in the blast.
Coalition forces said the attacks may have been launched by al Qaeda in order to disrupt the reconciliation process in the area. "This type of attack shows al Qaeda has a complete disregard for all Iraqis, regardless of what sect they belong to," said Lt. Col. Peter Andrysiak, deputy commanding officer for the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, whose troops work in the Abu Ghraib area.
In Baghdad, Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers and Iraqi army forces conducted a targeted raid and detained two suspected kidnappers June 6.
Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 7th Field Artillery, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, and Company A, 2nd Battalion, 136th Combined Arms Brigade, established a perimeter around a western Baghdad home and knocked on the front door.
The soldiers, along with their Iraqi counterparts from the 3rd Battalion, 6th Iraqi Army, detained the suspect accused of planning, coordinating and executing numerous kidnappings throughout western Baghdad. The man was taken into custody without incident, and the other occupants of the home were questioned.
Following a search of the home, the suspect's brother was found to possess personal items belonging to an Iraqi interpreter killed three days earlier when the vehicle he was traveling in was struck by an improvised explosive device. With the evidence discovered in the home, the brother also was detained. Both suspects remain in custody.
In a separate operation, Iraqi army forces conducted an early-morning operation June 6, capturing two insurgent leaders linked to an al Qaeda terrorist network in northern Iraq and detaining five other suspected insurgents. The two insurgent leaders are accused of conducting multiple assassinations and improvised-explosive-device attacks on innocent civilians and coalition forces.
Acting on previous intelligence, Iraqi forces raided the residences and detained their primary targets without incident. Five other individuals were detained during the operation.
Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers, acting on a tip from a local Iraqi citizen, discovered and destroyed a car bomb and an explosives cache in southern Baghdad June 6.
Soldiers from Company C, 1st Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment, attached to the 1st Battalion, 18th Infantry Regiment "Vanguards," discovered the car bomb while on patrol in a rural area after receiving a report from a local resident of suspicious activity in the area.
A search of the area also resulted in the discovery of 14 55-gallon drums containing homemade explosives. After cordoning off the area, both the car bomb and explosives were disposed of by an explosive ordnance disposal team.
"This is one more car bomb and cache of explosives discovered and destroyed that will never be used against innocent Iraqi civilians or coalition forces," said Col. Ricky D. Gibbs, commander of 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division. "I'm extremely proud of these soldiers who continue to maintain their edge and act on information provided by courageous Iraqis who are taking a stand against insurgent activity here."
Elsewhere, a joint team of Iraqi and coalition forces used air and ground firepower to destroy insurgents operating in Kabat village, near Baqouba, June 5.
Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 2nd Brigade, 5th Iraqi Army Division, and Company D, 1-12th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, engaged and killed 19 insurgents and wounded one other after the insurgents fired on the joint team with small-arms fire and rocket-propelled grenades from inside three buildings.
"The Iraqi soldiers demonstrated their increased capabilities and, with support from coalition forces, brought those terrorists to justice," said Army Lt. Col. James D. George Jr., acting commander for 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division.
Iraqi army and coalition ground forces, supported by attack aircraft, fixed terrorist positions and used combined ground and air firepower, consisting of small arms, rockets and bombs, to kill or root out the insurgents. Two Iraqi army soldiers were killed, and one U.S. soldier and one Iraqi civilian were wounded during the engagement.
(Compiled from Multinational Corps Iraq news releases.)
Article sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have authored books.
June 8, 2007 – Coalition and Iraqi forces have killed 21 insurgents, detained 20 suspects, and discovered several weapons caches over the past few days in Iraq, military officials reported. Also, two car bombs detonated near Abu Ghraib yesterday, causing major damage to two mosques. Coalition forces killed one terrorist and detained 12 suspected terrorists during operations targeting the al Qaeda in Iraq network today in Anbar province.
Based on information gained from an operation May 27, coalition forces raided several buildings northeast of Fallujah. After the coalition forces announced their presence through an interpreter, one terrorist outside the building threw a hand grenade at the ground forces. Coalition forces took appropriate self-defense measures and engaged the armed terrorist with small-arms fire, killing him.
Coalition forces searched the buildings and detained 12 suspected terrorists for their alleged involvement in the al Qaeda in Iraq network. Information gained from earlier operations indicates the suspects are involved in indoctrination for al Qaeda in Iraq. In one ceremony conducted by the network, those who declined to join the terrorist group were killed.
"Terrorists have no place in the future of Iraq, and their elimination will help allow the people of Iraq to choose a secure future," said Army Lt. Col. Christopher Garver, Multinational Force Iraq spokesman.
In another operation, Iraqi national police prevented a suicide bomber driving a mini-bus from entering Baghdad's Sadr City neighborhood yesterday.
While waiting in line to enter Sadr City, the driver of the vehicle detonated the car bomb 200 meters from the checkpoint, killing four Iraqi civilians and wounding eight others. No Iraqi security forces were injured in the explosion. Following the blast, Iraqi explosive ordnance teams defused additional unexploded munitions in the vehicle.
Elsewhere, two car bombs detonated, causing major damage to two mosques near Abu Ghraib yesterday.
The first attack occurred at 10:56 a.m., near an Iraqi army traffic-control point. A suicide bomber in a tractor trailer detonated what explosive ordnance teams estimated to be 800-1,000 pounds of explosives, killing two Iraqi army soldiers and one Iraqi resident and wounding four other soldiers.
The blast severely damaged two nearby mosques. A Shiia mosque was nearly 90 percent destroyed in the attack, while a nearby Sunni mosque was heavily damaged, as well. Other buildings, including a school and several shops, also were damaged in the attack. Eight civilian vehicles were also damaged.
In the second attack, at about 11 a.m., a suicide bomber detonated a vehicle about four blocks away from the first attack. One Iraqi army soldier was killed and another injured in the blast.
Coalition forces said the attacks may have been launched by al Qaeda in order to disrupt the reconciliation process in the area. "This type of attack shows al Qaeda has a complete disregard for all Iraqis, regardless of what sect they belong to," said Lt. Col. Peter Andrysiak, deputy commanding officer for the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, whose troops work in the Abu Ghraib area.
In Baghdad, Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers and Iraqi army forces conducted a targeted raid and detained two suspected kidnappers June 6.
Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 7th Field Artillery, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, and Company A, 2nd Battalion, 136th Combined Arms Brigade, established a perimeter around a western Baghdad home and knocked on the front door.
The soldiers, along with their Iraqi counterparts from the 3rd Battalion, 6th Iraqi Army, detained the suspect accused of planning, coordinating and executing numerous kidnappings throughout western Baghdad. The man was taken into custody without incident, and the other occupants of the home were questioned.
Following a search of the home, the suspect's brother was found to possess personal items belonging to an Iraqi interpreter killed three days earlier when the vehicle he was traveling in was struck by an improvised explosive device. With the evidence discovered in the home, the brother also was detained. Both suspects remain in custody.
In a separate operation, Iraqi army forces conducted an early-morning operation June 6, capturing two insurgent leaders linked to an al Qaeda terrorist network in northern Iraq and detaining five other suspected insurgents. The two insurgent leaders are accused of conducting multiple assassinations and improvised-explosive-device attacks on innocent civilians and coalition forces.
Acting on previous intelligence, Iraqi forces raided the residences and detained their primary targets without incident. Five other individuals were detained during the operation.
Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers, acting on a tip from a local Iraqi citizen, discovered and destroyed a car bomb and an explosives cache in southern Baghdad June 6.
Soldiers from Company C, 1st Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment, attached to the 1st Battalion, 18th Infantry Regiment "Vanguards," discovered the car bomb while on patrol in a rural area after receiving a report from a local resident of suspicious activity in the area.
A search of the area also resulted in the discovery of 14 55-gallon drums containing homemade explosives. After cordoning off the area, both the car bomb and explosives were disposed of by an explosive ordnance disposal team.
"This is one more car bomb and cache of explosives discovered and destroyed that will never be used against innocent Iraqi civilians or coalition forces," said Col. Ricky D. Gibbs, commander of 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division. "I'm extremely proud of these soldiers who continue to maintain their edge and act on information provided by courageous Iraqis who are taking a stand against insurgent activity here."
Elsewhere, a joint team of Iraqi and coalition forces used air and ground firepower to destroy insurgents operating in Kabat village, near Baqouba, June 5.
Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 2nd Brigade, 5th Iraqi Army Division, and Company D, 1-12th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, engaged and killed 19 insurgents and wounded one other after the insurgents fired on the joint team with small-arms fire and rocket-propelled grenades from inside three buildings.
"The Iraqi soldiers demonstrated their increased capabilities and, with support from coalition forces, brought those terrorists to justice," said Army Lt. Col. James D. George Jr., acting commander for 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division.
Iraqi army and coalition ground forces, supported by attack aircraft, fixed terrorist positions and used combined ground and air firepower, consisting of small arms, rockets and bombs, to kill or root out the insurgents. Two Iraqi army soldiers were killed, and one U.S. soldier and one Iraqi civilian were wounded during the engagement.
(Compiled from Multinational Corps Iraq news releases.)
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Kirkuk Example Provides Hope Despite Terrorist Attacks, Commander Says
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service
June 8, 2007 – Kirkuk, Iraq's northern oil center, is an example of people of all sects, tribes and religions being able to live and work together in the Middle East, said Army Col. Patrick Stackpole, commander of 3rd Brigade 25th Infantry Division. That's why it is a terrorist target. Stackpole briefed the Pentagon press corps today via teleconference from the northern Iraq city. His brigade has been in Kirkuk since August 2006 and is working with Iraqi security forces to improve safety and security throughout the province.
Kirkuk is a rich prize with roughly 10 billion barrels of oil, which represent approximately 40 percent of Iraq's oil reserve and 70 percent of its natural gas production.
Saddam Hussein tried his version of ethnic cleansing in the city. He forced Arab families to move to Kirkuk to dilute the power of Kurds and Turkomen who constitute the majority of people in the province, Stackpole said.
"Kirkuk boasts a long history of peaceful coexistence," Stackpole said. "Kurds, Arabs, Turkoman and Assyrians comprise both the ethnic and religious diversity of the region, and we have not seen the same level of ethnic nor sectarian strife that we've seen in other parts of Iraq."
Part of this is millennia of living together and part of it is "the overall resilience of the people of Kirkuk not to allow ethnic differences to divide them," the colonel said.
The U.S. brigade is partnered with Iraqi security units, including the 2nd Brigade of the 4th Iraqi Army Division, the local provincial police and also the 1st Strategic Infrastructure Brigade. "We work closely with each to assist in training the forces and to maintain security, protect the people, infrastructure and natural resources throughout the province," he said.
The U.S. and Iraqi forces have conducted more than 900 partnered operations at the brigade, battalion and company level. There have been literally thousands of platoon and section patrols.
"These operations have served not only to provide security to the people of the province but also to prepare the Iraqi army and the police to eventually achieve self-sufficiency," Stackpole said. He said the Iraqi Army brigade is becoming a truly effective, capable force.
Police presence is also growing in capability and size, he said. There are now almost 2,000 police province wide, and the local police have primary responsibility for security in the city of Kirkuk, he said.
But the enemy is ruthless. "Across the province, we face Islamic extremists, former regime elements and Baath loyalists," he said. "While these organizations offer nothing but violence and rhetoric, attempts to discredit the government and coalition forces continue.
"Each day, through our partnership with the security forces, we work to counter these violent attacks by also extending the reach of the elected government. The Iraqi people's prosperity is the key," Stackpole said.
The Iraqi national government is working to improve basic services in the province, Stackpole said, and it is also working to spur economic development.
The straqtegy in Kirkuk calls for expanding presence in the province. The coalition brigade has created and manned several small patrol bases.
"With this increased presence, we are better able to deny insurgents freedom of movement and sanctuary while integrating more closely with the local population in building relationships that demonstrate our objectives are in line with their security and safety," Stackpole said.
And the strategy is paying off. "We've established freedom of movement on major routes in our area of operation, with focus on a road from Kirkuk south to Tikrit," he said. "We've identified and filled nearly 400 road craters and have increased our discovery rate of (improvised explosive devices) from 33 percent in September to 64 percent today."
The brigade has also captured 15 high-value individuals, who were responsible for financing, controlling, planning and providing weapons. "We continue to gather actionable intelligence targeting cell leaders and their conspirators," he said. "We're also seeing an increased commitment to security by the civilian population."
The road ahead in Kirkuk may be bumpy - thanks in part to Saddam's 'Arabization' of the city. An article in the national constitution allows the residents of the city to vote on their future. To be effective there must be a period of normalization, a census to get a handle on the people in the area and finally a vote.
The enemy does not want a stable Kirkuk. "We see daily IEDs, rocket attacks, kidnappings, murders and drive-by shootings, all used to intimidate the population and keep them out of the political process," Stackpole said. "Despite this, we see a resilience in the people, dedication on the part of the Iraqi security forces, and overall determination not to let the terrorists succeed."
Article sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have authored books.
American Forces Press Service
June 8, 2007 – Kirkuk, Iraq's northern oil center, is an example of people of all sects, tribes and religions being able to live and work together in the Middle East, said Army Col. Patrick Stackpole, commander of 3rd Brigade 25th Infantry Division. That's why it is a terrorist target. Stackpole briefed the Pentagon press corps today via teleconference from the northern Iraq city. His brigade has been in Kirkuk since August 2006 and is working with Iraqi security forces to improve safety and security throughout the province.
Kirkuk is a rich prize with roughly 10 billion barrels of oil, which represent approximately 40 percent of Iraq's oil reserve and 70 percent of its natural gas production.
Saddam Hussein tried his version of ethnic cleansing in the city. He forced Arab families to move to Kirkuk to dilute the power of Kurds and Turkomen who constitute the majority of people in the province, Stackpole said.
"Kirkuk boasts a long history of peaceful coexistence," Stackpole said. "Kurds, Arabs, Turkoman and Assyrians comprise both the ethnic and religious diversity of the region, and we have not seen the same level of ethnic nor sectarian strife that we've seen in other parts of Iraq."
Part of this is millennia of living together and part of it is "the overall resilience of the people of Kirkuk not to allow ethnic differences to divide them," the colonel said.
The U.S. brigade is partnered with Iraqi security units, including the 2nd Brigade of the 4th Iraqi Army Division, the local provincial police and also the 1st Strategic Infrastructure Brigade. "We work closely with each to assist in training the forces and to maintain security, protect the people, infrastructure and natural resources throughout the province," he said.
The U.S. and Iraqi forces have conducted more than 900 partnered operations at the brigade, battalion and company level. There have been literally thousands of platoon and section patrols.
"These operations have served not only to provide security to the people of the province but also to prepare the Iraqi army and the police to eventually achieve self-sufficiency," Stackpole said. He said the Iraqi Army brigade is becoming a truly effective, capable force.
Police presence is also growing in capability and size, he said. There are now almost 2,000 police province wide, and the local police have primary responsibility for security in the city of Kirkuk, he said.
But the enemy is ruthless. "Across the province, we face Islamic extremists, former regime elements and Baath loyalists," he said. "While these organizations offer nothing but violence and rhetoric, attempts to discredit the government and coalition forces continue.
"Each day, through our partnership with the security forces, we work to counter these violent attacks by also extending the reach of the elected government. The Iraqi people's prosperity is the key," Stackpole said.
The Iraqi national government is working to improve basic services in the province, Stackpole said, and it is also working to spur economic development.
The straqtegy in Kirkuk calls for expanding presence in the province. The coalition brigade has created and manned several small patrol bases.
"With this increased presence, we are better able to deny insurgents freedom of movement and sanctuary while integrating more closely with the local population in building relationships that demonstrate our objectives are in line with their security and safety," Stackpole said.
And the strategy is paying off. "We've established freedom of movement on major routes in our area of operation, with focus on a road from Kirkuk south to Tikrit," he said. "We've identified and filled nearly 400 road craters and have increased our discovery rate of (improvised explosive devices) from 33 percent in September to 64 percent today."
The brigade has also captured 15 high-value individuals, who were responsible for financing, controlling, planning and providing weapons. "We continue to gather actionable intelligence targeting cell leaders and their conspirators," he said. "We're also seeing an increased commitment to security by the civilian population."
The road ahead in Kirkuk may be bumpy - thanks in part to Saddam's 'Arabization' of the city. An article in the national constitution allows the residents of the city to vote on their future. To be effective there must be a period of normalization, a census to get a handle on the people in the area and finally a vote.
The enemy does not want a stable Kirkuk. "We see daily IEDs, rocket attacks, kidnappings, murders and drive-by shootings, all used to intimidate the population and keep them out of the political process," Stackpole said. "Despite this, we see a resilience in the people, dedication on the part of the Iraqi security forces, and overall determination not to let the terrorists succeed."
Article sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have authored books.
Admiral Describes Way Forward for Baghdad Troop Surge
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service
June 8, 2007 – The surge of U.S. troops into Iraq as part of the Baghdad Security Plan is already having an effect, and Americans need to be patient, a spokesman for Multinational Force Iraq said here during a June 6 interview. The coalition in Iraq is not where it wants to be, "but we're a lot farther on than we were before," said Navy Rear Adm. Mark Fox.
Elements of the last of five U.S. "surge" brigades are arriving in Baghdad and, all told, more than 28,000 American troops will be part of the surge.
"We are conducting more operations where we haven't operated before," Fox said. "We are seeing an increase in contacts with insurgents and an increase in activity."
The increase in contacts has resulted in an increase in U.S. casualties, he said, but the number of sectarian killings has dropped since President Bush announced the plan in January. There was an increase in violence in May, but Fox attributed it to "greater activity -- engaging more than we have in the past."
The coalition and Iraqi forces are clearing neighborhoods and are holding them. "It will take some time ... to set the conditions now and increase the level of protection for the Iraqi people," he said.
The will of the Iraqi people is a center of gravity for the struggle against extremists.
"Protecting them is key to the way ahead," Fox said. "If you protect the Iraqi people, you have an enormous ally."
The Iraqi people are looking at the example set in Anbar province, Fox said. The sheikhs and tribal leaders are encouraging the people of the mostly Sunni province to cooperate with coalition forces and the Iraqi government, Fox said. The incidents in the country have dropped precipitously.
"The more contact we have with the Iraqi people, the more the people see the Iraqi security forces and the coalition forces are working to protect them, the more interaction with and cooperation from the Iraqi people we will get," the admiral said.
The strategy in Baghdad and other urban centers is focused on joint security stations. The stations allow Iraqi and coalition forces to maintain constant presence and protection in the neighborhoods.
There are currently plans to build 76 stations in greater Baghdad. In them, Iraqi and coalition forces live side by side, Fox said. The coalition forces continue to work with Iraqi soldiers and police officers in training. The two nationalities patrol the neighborhoods together. The Iraqi forces provide the cultural understanding of the neighborhoods.
The permanent presence is allowing the Iraqi and coalition forces to build the neighborhoods. Businesses are returning to the areas, and the building funded by the coalition and Iraqi government pays workers in the neighborhoods to make improvements.
"U.S. forces have won every battle, but military force cannot win the war," Fox said. "Economic, political, diplomatic efforts are needed, and those take time."
These are long-term efforts. "Baghdad is a city the size of Detroit," Fox said. "It will take time for the Iraqi government and coalition to turn these around."
The Iraqi government is holding political discussions with some insurgent groups to get them to buy in to the government, as the Anbar groups did, Fox said.
In other areas of Iraq, city councils are debating the way forward. "It's not Jefferson-and-Madison type democracy," Fox said. "It has a very Iraqi cast to it, but I found it very encouraging to see the people arguing over how to move forward."
Iraqi security forces are making progress, but there are problems with training and loyalty, the admiral acknowledged. The Iraqi Army has to be a national institution, he said, and Iraqi soldiers must put loyalty to the government above loyalty to sect or tribe or region. Again, this will take time, he said.
"There are some strong and good things going on, but there are obviously loyalty and training problems," Fox said. "But I like the trend. I'm seeing more and more indications that the Iraqi security forces are becoming more capable, more confident and more comfortable in operations."
Article sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have authored books.
American Forces Press Service
June 8, 2007 – The surge of U.S. troops into Iraq as part of the Baghdad Security Plan is already having an effect, and Americans need to be patient, a spokesman for Multinational Force Iraq said here during a June 6 interview. The coalition in Iraq is not where it wants to be, "but we're a lot farther on than we were before," said Navy Rear Adm. Mark Fox.
Elements of the last of five U.S. "surge" brigades are arriving in Baghdad and, all told, more than 28,000 American troops will be part of the surge.
"We are conducting more operations where we haven't operated before," Fox said. "We are seeing an increase in contacts with insurgents and an increase in activity."
The increase in contacts has resulted in an increase in U.S. casualties, he said, but the number of sectarian killings has dropped since President Bush announced the plan in January. There was an increase in violence in May, but Fox attributed it to "greater activity -- engaging more than we have in the past."
The coalition and Iraqi forces are clearing neighborhoods and are holding them. "It will take some time ... to set the conditions now and increase the level of protection for the Iraqi people," he said.
The will of the Iraqi people is a center of gravity for the struggle against extremists.
"Protecting them is key to the way ahead," Fox said. "If you protect the Iraqi people, you have an enormous ally."
The Iraqi people are looking at the example set in Anbar province, Fox said. The sheikhs and tribal leaders are encouraging the people of the mostly Sunni province to cooperate with coalition forces and the Iraqi government, Fox said. The incidents in the country have dropped precipitously.
"The more contact we have with the Iraqi people, the more the people see the Iraqi security forces and the coalition forces are working to protect them, the more interaction with and cooperation from the Iraqi people we will get," the admiral said.
The strategy in Baghdad and other urban centers is focused on joint security stations. The stations allow Iraqi and coalition forces to maintain constant presence and protection in the neighborhoods.
There are currently plans to build 76 stations in greater Baghdad. In them, Iraqi and coalition forces live side by side, Fox said. The coalition forces continue to work with Iraqi soldiers and police officers in training. The two nationalities patrol the neighborhoods together. The Iraqi forces provide the cultural understanding of the neighborhoods.
The permanent presence is allowing the Iraqi and coalition forces to build the neighborhoods. Businesses are returning to the areas, and the building funded by the coalition and Iraqi government pays workers in the neighborhoods to make improvements.
"U.S. forces have won every battle, but military force cannot win the war," Fox said. "Economic, political, diplomatic efforts are needed, and those take time."
These are long-term efforts. "Baghdad is a city the size of Detroit," Fox said. "It will take time for the Iraqi government and coalition to turn these around."
The Iraqi government is holding political discussions with some insurgent groups to get them to buy in to the government, as the Anbar groups did, Fox said.
In other areas of Iraq, city councils are debating the way forward. "It's not Jefferson-and-Madison type democracy," Fox said. "It has a very Iraqi cast to it, but I found it very encouraging to see the people arguing over how to move forward."
Iraqi security forces are making progress, but there are problems with training and loyalty, the admiral acknowledged. The Iraqi Army has to be a national institution, he said, and Iraqi soldiers must put loyalty to the government above loyalty to sect or tribe or region. Again, this will take time, he said.
"There are some strong and good things going on, but there are obviously loyalty and training problems," Fox said. "But I like the trend. I'm seeing more and more indications that the Iraqi security forces are becoming more capable, more confident and more comfortable in operations."
Article sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have authored books.
Afghan, Coalition Forces Defeat Enemy Fighters; Civilians Reject Insurgents
American Forces Press Service
June 8, 2007 – Elements of the 205th Afghan National Army Corps, advised and assisted by coalition forces, defeated enemy insurgents in two separate firefights in Afghanistan's Kandahar and Zabul provinces June 6, military officials reported. The first battle took place midday near the village of Petaw, in the Shah Wali Kot district of Kandahar province, when an unknown number of enemy forces fired on a combined patrol. The combined patrol immediately returned fire, then quickly maneuvered to kill several enemy fighters within two hours.
The second battle took place during the hours of darkness in the Deh Chopan district of Zabul province when enemy forces fired 107 mm rockets at a coalition firebase. Afghan and coalition forces returned mortar fire then pursued an unknown number of enemy attackers as they attempted to get away. During the pursuit, the combined force exchanged small-arms fire with the fleeing attackers, killing a number of them.
No Afghan civilian injuries were reported in the separate battles.
"Afghan National Army and coalition forces will remain devoted to uprooting insurgent elements in the region," said Army Maj. Chris Belcher, a Combined Joint Task Force 82 spokesman. "We will continue to assist and advise the (Afghan National Army) by conducting combined security operations in order to enhance the Afghan government's ability to maintain stability in the region."
Elsewhere, several hundred Afghans and village elders from the Ali Khail (Jaji) and Laja Ahmad Khail districts of Paktya province forced enemy insurgents out of their villages June 4.
The Afghan villagers were angered over the enemy insurgent presence in their area and informed Afghan national police and coalition forces, officials said. Afghan civilians confronted the insurgents, took their weapons, and told the enemy insurgents they were no longer welcome in their districts.
Afghan residents near Chamkani also stopped enemy insurgents from bringing fighters, suicide bombers and material from Pakistan through the area. Two weeks ago, Chamkani Afghan police members intercepted two suicide bombers after receiving information from the local populace. As a result, one suicide bomber was not able to harm anyone and blew himself up. During that same time period, Afghan civilians came to the aid of two Afghan border control points and repelled enemy forces as they attempted to overrun the positions.
Two days ago, in neighboring Paktika province, local tribal members near Shkin pursued enemy insurgents near the Pakistan border after the insurgents killed two civilians and injured several others during an enemy direct-fire attack on the local bazaar.
In Khowst province, the local populace has pledged support to serve and protect the region from insurgents and assist the local legitimate government. In addition, Afghan civilians have expressed their support to assist local checkpoints in the Zambar region.
"Afghan civilians living in Paktya, Paktika and Khowst have decided to not allow enemy insurgents to seek refuge in their villages anymore," Belcher said. "There is no limit to what the Afghan National Army and Afghan national security forces can accomplish with the support of the Afghan populace."
(Compiled from Combined Joint Task Force 82 news releases.)
Article sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have authored books.
June 8, 2007 – Elements of the 205th Afghan National Army Corps, advised and assisted by coalition forces, defeated enemy insurgents in two separate firefights in Afghanistan's Kandahar and Zabul provinces June 6, military officials reported. The first battle took place midday near the village of Petaw, in the Shah Wali Kot district of Kandahar province, when an unknown number of enemy forces fired on a combined patrol. The combined patrol immediately returned fire, then quickly maneuvered to kill several enemy fighters within two hours.
The second battle took place during the hours of darkness in the Deh Chopan district of Zabul province when enemy forces fired 107 mm rockets at a coalition firebase. Afghan and coalition forces returned mortar fire then pursued an unknown number of enemy attackers as they attempted to get away. During the pursuit, the combined force exchanged small-arms fire with the fleeing attackers, killing a number of them.
No Afghan civilian injuries were reported in the separate battles.
"Afghan National Army and coalition forces will remain devoted to uprooting insurgent elements in the region," said Army Maj. Chris Belcher, a Combined Joint Task Force 82 spokesman. "We will continue to assist and advise the (Afghan National Army) by conducting combined security operations in order to enhance the Afghan government's ability to maintain stability in the region."
Elsewhere, several hundred Afghans and village elders from the Ali Khail (Jaji) and Laja Ahmad Khail districts of Paktya province forced enemy insurgents out of their villages June 4.
The Afghan villagers were angered over the enemy insurgent presence in their area and informed Afghan national police and coalition forces, officials said. Afghan civilians confronted the insurgents, took their weapons, and told the enemy insurgents they were no longer welcome in their districts.
Afghan residents near Chamkani also stopped enemy insurgents from bringing fighters, suicide bombers and material from Pakistan through the area. Two weeks ago, Chamkani Afghan police members intercepted two suicide bombers after receiving information from the local populace. As a result, one suicide bomber was not able to harm anyone and blew himself up. During that same time period, Afghan civilians came to the aid of two Afghan border control points and repelled enemy forces as they attempted to overrun the positions.
Two days ago, in neighboring Paktika province, local tribal members near Shkin pursued enemy insurgents near the Pakistan border after the insurgents killed two civilians and injured several others during an enemy direct-fire attack on the local bazaar.
In Khowst province, the local populace has pledged support to serve and protect the region from insurgents and assist the local legitimate government. In addition, Afghan civilians have expressed their support to assist local checkpoints in the Zambar region.
"Afghan civilians living in Paktya, Paktika and Khowst have decided to not allow enemy insurgents to seek refuge in their villages anymore," Belcher said. "There is no limit to what the Afghan National Army and Afghan national security forces can accomplish with the support of the Afghan populace."
(Compiled from Combined Joint Task Force 82 news releases.)
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Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
Pfc. Timothy R. Vimoto, 19, of Fort Campbell, Ky., died June 5 in Korengal Valley, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when his unit was attacked by insurgents using small arms fire. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment (Airborne) 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team, Camp Ederle, Italy.
For more information related to this release the media may contact the Southern European Task Force public affairs office at 011-39-0444-71-7011 or 011-39-0444-71-8020.
Pfc. Timothy R. Vimoto, 19, of Fort Campbell, Ky., died June 5 in Korengal Valley, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when his unit was attacked by insurgents using small arms fire. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment (Airborne) 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team, Camp Ederle, Italy.
For more information related to this release the media may contact the Southern European Task Force public affairs office at 011-39-0444-71-7011 or 011-39-0444-71-8020.
Iraq, Afghanistan Remain 'Main Effort' in Terror War, Lute Says
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service
June 7, 2007 – The conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan represent the "main effort" in the war on terrorism, a general nominated as a top administration official said today. Army Lt. Gen. Douglas E. Lute spoke before the Senate Armed Services Committee as part of the confirmation process to be assistant to the president and deputy national security advisor for Iraq and Afghanistan. The position is a new one, and the press has reduced the title to "war czar." Lute is currently the Joint Staff's operations director.
Lute said the greater Middle East and Central Asia regions will not succeed if Iraq and Afghanistan do not succeed.
"The stakes for these two countries are certainly high, as they are for all the countries in the region," he said in his opening statement before the committee. "But the stakes for the United States are also high."
If confirmed for the new position, Lute would report directly to President Bush. "I will brief him daily, and I will act on his instructions in fulfilling my duties," Lute said. "I will work closely with National Security Advisor Steve Hadley to clarify priorities, establish milestones, provide follow-through and set the policy development agenda."
The president officially nominated Lute to the new position May 15. Lute has met with members of Congress since then to discuss the nomination and legislators' concerns. He said all people he has spoken with are concerned for the well-being and safety of U.S. personnel serving in Iraq and Afghanistan.
The new position is designed to advise the president on how to provide U.S. personnel with increased, focused, full-time support in Washington. "It will do so in two ways: by executing policy decisions comprehensively and by developing policy adaptations for use on the ground," Lute said.
He said the status quo, especially in Iraq, is not acceptable. "To change this, we are in the midst of executing a shift in course as announced by the president in January," he said.
Early results for the Baghdad security plan are mixed, Lute said. Iraq is a complicated area, and fixing a problem in one place may uncover others somewhere else. "But one factor remains constant: the dedication and sacrifice of our men and women, military and civilian, serving in these combat zones," he said. "They are a continuing inspiration to me and to my family."
Article sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have authored books.
American Forces Press Service
June 7, 2007 – The conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan represent the "main effort" in the war on terrorism, a general nominated as a top administration official said today. Army Lt. Gen. Douglas E. Lute spoke before the Senate Armed Services Committee as part of the confirmation process to be assistant to the president and deputy national security advisor for Iraq and Afghanistan. The position is a new one, and the press has reduced the title to "war czar." Lute is currently the Joint Staff's operations director.
Lute said the greater Middle East and Central Asia regions will not succeed if Iraq and Afghanistan do not succeed.
"The stakes for these two countries are certainly high, as they are for all the countries in the region," he said in his opening statement before the committee. "But the stakes for the United States are also high."
If confirmed for the new position, Lute would report directly to President Bush. "I will brief him daily, and I will act on his instructions in fulfilling my duties," Lute said. "I will work closely with National Security Advisor Steve Hadley to clarify priorities, establish milestones, provide follow-through and set the policy development agenda."
The president officially nominated Lute to the new position May 15. Lute has met with members of Congress since then to discuss the nomination and legislators' concerns. He said all people he has spoken with are concerned for the well-being and safety of U.S. personnel serving in Iraq and Afghanistan.
The new position is designed to advise the president on how to provide U.S. personnel with increased, focused, full-time support in Washington. "It will do so in two ways: by executing policy decisions comprehensively and by developing policy adaptations for use on the ground," Lute said.
He said the status quo, especially in Iraq, is not acceptable. "To change this, we are in the midst of executing a shift in course as announced by the president in January," he said.
Early results for the Baghdad security plan are mixed, Lute said. Iraq is a complicated area, and fixing a problem in one place may uncover others somewhere else. "But one factor remains constant: the dedication and sacrifice of our men and women, military and civilian, serving in these combat zones," he said. "They are a continuing inspiration to me and to my family."
Article sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have authored books.
Afghan, U.S. Troops Kill al Qaeda Agent, Net 3 Insurgents
American Forces Press Service
June 7, 2007 – Afghan and U.S. forces killed a suspected al Qaeda agent and captured three other suspected insurgents during separate actions in Afghanistan's Zabul and Nangarhar provinces today, military officials said. The suspected al Qaeda operative had fired on Afghan and U.S. troops as they approached a reputed militant safe house located in the Khogyani district of Nangarhar province. The house was allegedly used by al Qaeda to funnel weapons and explosives for terrorist operations. Coalition forces returned fire, killing the militant.
A search of the house yielded numerous weapons, including timers and grenades used to make improvised explosive devices. No coalition casualties were incurred during the operation.
The detained threesome will be questioned about their identities and involvement in terrorist activities, officials said.
The other Afghanistan operation targeted a reputed safe house in the Shajoy district of Zabul province and resulted in the detention of three suspected Taliban members, officials said. The house was reportedly used to facilitate the movement of foreign fighters into Afghanistan, officials said.
Various weapons were seized during the operation and destroyed. The detainees will undergo questioning about their alleged activities. No shots were fired, and no one was injured during the operation.
(Compiled from Combined Joint Task Force 82 news releases.)
Article sponsored by criminal justice online leadership; and, police and military personnel who have authored books.
June 7, 2007 – Afghan and U.S. forces killed a suspected al Qaeda agent and captured three other suspected insurgents during separate actions in Afghanistan's Zabul and Nangarhar provinces today, military officials said. The suspected al Qaeda operative had fired on Afghan and U.S. troops as they approached a reputed militant safe house located in the Khogyani district of Nangarhar province. The house was allegedly used by al Qaeda to funnel weapons and explosives for terrorist operations. Coalition forces returned fire, killing the militant.
A search of the house yielded numerous weapons, including timers and grenades used to make improvised explosive devices. No coalition casualties were incurred during the operation.
The detained threesome will be questioned about their identities and involvement in terrorist activities, officials said.
The other Afghanistan operation targeted a reputed safe house in the Shajoy district of Zabul province and resulted in the detention of three suspected Taliban members, officials said. The house was reportedly used to facilitate the movement of foreign fighters into Afghanistan, officials said.
Various weapons were seized during the operation and destroyed. The detainees will undergo questioning about their alleged activities. No shots were fired, and no one was injured during the operation.
(Compiled from Combined Joint Task Force 82 news releases.)
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Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Pfc. Shawn D. Gajdos, 25, of Grand Rapids, Mich., died June 6 in Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds suffered when his unit was attacked by insurgents using improvised explosive devices and small arms fire. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kan.
For more information related to this release the media may contact the Fort Riley public affairs office at (785) 239-3410.
Pfc. Shawn D. Gajdos, 25, of Grand Rapids, Mich., died June 6 in Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds suffered when his unit was attacked by insurgents using improvised explosive devices and small arms fire. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kan.
For more information related to this release the media may contact the Fort Riley public affairs office at (785) 239-3410.
Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Staff Sgt. Timothy B. Cole Jr., 28, of Missouri City, Texas, died June 6 in As Sadah, Iraq, of wounds suffered from an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 5th Squadron, 73rd Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Bragg, N.C.
For more information related to this release the media may contact the 82nd Airborne Division public affairs office at (910) 432-0661.
Staff Sgt. Timothy B. Cole Jr., 28, of Missouri City, Texas, died June 6 in As Sadah, Iraq, of wounds suffered from an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 5th Squadron, 73rd Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Bragg, N.C.
For more information related to this release the media may contact the 82nd Airborne Division public affairs office at (910) 432-0661.
Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Pfc. Justin A. Verdeja, 20, of La Puente, Calif., died June 5 in Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds suffered when his unit was attacked by insurgents using small arms fire. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division, Fort Carson, Colo.
For more information related to this release the media may contact the Fort Carson public affairs office at (719) 526-3420; after hours (719) 526-5500.
Pfc. Justin A. Verdeja, 20, of La Puente, Calif., died June 5 in Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds suffered when his unit was attacked by insurgents using small arms fire. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division, Fort Carson, Colo.
For more information related to this release the media may contact the Fort Carson public affairs office at (719) 526-3420; after hours (719) 526-5500.
Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. Kimel L. Watt, 21, of Brooklyn, N.Y., died June 3 in Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 7th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Schweinfurt, Germany.
For more information related to this release the media may contact the 1st Armored Division public affairs office at 011-49-611-705-4859.
Sgt. Kimel L. Watt, 21, of Brooklyn, N.Y., died June 3 in Baghdad, Iraq, of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 7th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Schweinfurt, Germany.
For more information related to this release the media may contact the 1st Armored Division public affairs office at 011-49-611-705-4859.
Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. Matthew Soper, 25, of Kalamazoo, Mich., died June 6 in Bayji, Iraq, of wounds suffered from an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 1461st Transportation Company (Combat Heavy Equipment), Michigan Army National Guard, Jackson, Mich.
For more information related to this release the media may contact the Michigan Army National Guard public affairs office at (517) 481-8140.
Sgt. Matthew Soper, 25, of Kalamazoo, Mich., died June 6 in Bayji, Iraq, of wounds suffered from an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 1461st Transportation Company (Combat Heavy Equipment), Michigan Army National Guard, Jackson, Mich.
For more information related to this release the media may contact the Michigan Army National Guard public affairs office at (517) 481-8140.
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