By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
July 26, 2007 - Protecting American citizens requires more than tracking who's entering and leaving the country, screening cargo and making people take their shoes off at airports, President Bush said today in Philadelphia. "I believe it requires a relentless search (and) relentless pressure on an enemy that wants to do us harm again," he told members of the American Legislative Exchange Council in urging patience and support for the war in Iraq.
Bush said it's shortsighted to think that terrorists will retreat if there's no pressure on them. They're committed to imposing their ideology and punishing those who stand in their way, so there's no choice but to confront them, he said.
"The best way to protect you is to keep them on the run (and) keep the pressure on them," the president said. "And that is exactly what the United States of America is doing and will continue to do so long as I'm the president of the United States."
But, Bush said, defeating terrorists isn't enough. "We're ... in an ideological struggle, and the best way to defeat their ideology of darkness in the long term is with an ideology of hope," he said. "The ideology of hope is based upon the universality of liberty."
Bush described the strategy to achieve that goal. The short-term strategy is to defeat terrorists by finding them and bringing them to justice. The long-term strategy is "to help others realize the blessings of liberty," he said.
The president acknowledged that the war hasn't been easy. "I understand the angst amongst the American people. I know that people are weary of war," he said.
He added that he understands that images on people's TV sets can make them question if the war is worth it and whether the United States will succeed.
"Well, I believe the cause is worth it," he said. "I wouldn't ask a mother's child to go into combat if I didn't think it was necessary to protect the American people to stay on the offense. And I do believe we can succeed if we don't lose our nerve."
Bush pointed to the two major theaters of the global war against extremists and radicals: Afghanistan and Iraq. In both theaters, extremists see progress being made and are reacting through violence, he said.
In Iraq, Bush said, rising sectarian violence forced him to make a decision. Rather than pulling U.S. troops out, he sent additional troops to help provide security needed for the new Iraqi democracy to succeed. "The mission is to help protect Baghdad and the people inside Baghdad and to keep relentless pressure on those extremists who are trying to stop the advance of democracy," he said.
Bush said he believes this strategy, led by Army Gen. David H. Petraeus, commander of Multinational Force Iraq, is working. "And I believe it's in the interest of this country, for our own security, for the United States Congress to fully support General Petraeus in his mission and to give him time to come back and report to the United States Congress the progress that he's making," he said.
As the Iraqi Parliament advances this effort from the top down, Bush said, the Iraqi people are supporting it through bottom-up reconciliation. "That's when people on the ground begin to see things change and start making decisions that will lead to peace," he said.
Bush urged patience and support to help a peaceful, stable Iraqi government take shape.
Failing to defeat terrorists in Iraq will have dangerous long-term consequences for Iraq, the region and the United States, he said. "They're dangerous in Iraq, and they'll be dangerous here," Bush said. "And that is why we must defeat them in Iraq, and we can."
Friday, July 27, 2007
Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Staff Sgt. Joshua P. Mattero, 29, of San Diego, died July 24 in Baqubah, Iraq, of wounds suffered from an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 749th Ordnance Company, 63rd Explosive Ordnance Battalion, Andrews Air Force Base, Md.
For more information related to this release, the media may contact the 20th Support Command (CBRNE) public affairs office at (410) 436-0400.
Staff Sgt. Joshua P. Mattero, 29, of San Diego, died July 24 in Baqubah, Iraq, of wounds suffered from an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 749th Ordnance Company, 63rd Explosive Ordnance Battalion, Andrews Air Force Base, Md.
For more information related to this release, the media may contact the 20th Support Command (CBRNE) public affairs office at (410) 436-0400.
Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. Courtney D. Finch, 27, of Leavenworth, Kan., died July 24 in Qayyarah, Iraq, of injuries sustained from a non-combat related incident. He was assigned to the 714th Maintenance Company, Kansas Army National Guard, Topeka, Kan.
The incident is under investigation.
For more information related to this release, the media may contact the Kansas National Guard public affairs office at (785) 274-1192.
Sgt. Courtney D. Finch, 27, of Leavenworth, Kan., died July 24 in Qayyarah, Iraq, of injuries sustained from a non-combat related incident. He was assigned to the 714th Maintenance Company, Kansas Army National Guard, Topeka, Kan.
The incident is under investigation.
For more information related to this release, the media may contact the Kansas National Guard public affairs office at (785) 274-1192.
Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.
Pfc. Juan S. Restrepo, 20, of Pembroke Pines, Fla., died July 22 in Korengal Valley, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit using small arms fire. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment (Airborne), 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team, Vicenza, Italy.
For more information related to this release, media may contact the Southern European Task Force public affairs office at 011-39-0444-71-7011 or 011-39-0444-71-8020.
Pfc. Juan S. Restrepo, 20, of Pembroke Pines, Fla., died July 22 in Korengal Valley, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit using small arms fire. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment (Airborne), 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team, Vicenza, Italy.
For more information related to this release, media may contact the Southern European Task Force public affairs office at 011-39-0444-71-7011 or 011-39-0444-71-8020.
Marine Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of three Marines who were supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Lance Cpl. Robert A. Lynch, 20, of Louisville, Ky.
Cpl. James H. McRae, 22, of Springtown, Texas
Cpl. Matthew R. Zindars, 21, of Watertown, Wis.
All three Marines died July 24 while conducting combat operations in Diyala province, Iraq.
Lynch was assigned to 1st Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, Okinawa, Japan.
McRae was assigned to 3rd Maintenance Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 35, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, Okinawa, Japan.
Zandars was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif.
Media with questions about Lynch or McRae can contact the Okinawa public affairs office at 011-81-611-745-0790 or email OkinawaPao@usmc.mil . Media with questions about Zandars can contact the Camp Pendleton public affairs office at (760) 725-5044.
Lance Cpl. Robert A. Lynch, 20, of Louisville, Ky.
Cpl. James H. McRae, 22, of Springtown, Texas
Cpl. Matthew R. Zindars, 21, of Watertown, Wis.
All three Marines died July 24 while conducting combat operations in Diyala province, Iraq.
Lynch was assigned to 1st Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, Okinawa, Japan.
McRae was assigned to 3rd Maintenance Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 35, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force, Okinawa, Japan.
Zandars was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, Calif.
Media with questions about Lynch or McRae can contact the Okinawa public affairs office at 011-81-611-745-0790 or email OkinawaPao@usmc.mil . Media with questions about Zandars can contact the Camp Pendleton public affairs office at (760) 725-5044.
Thursday, July 26, 2007
Law Enforcement Technology
Editor's Note: Many of the technologies in this summary are being used by state and local police departments for domestic counterterrorism and homeland security.
NLECTC Law Enforcement & Corrections Technology News Summary
Thursday, July 26, 2007
"NOPD Unveils New Crime Maps"
New Orleans Times-Picayune (07/20/07) P. 1; McCarthy, Brendan
On July 19, the New Orleans Police Department launched an upgraded Web site mapping tool that lays out crimes on a map. The tool, located at the bottom of the police department's Web site, permits users to enter any address in New Orleans. At that point, they can look for particular crimes, zoom in and out of certain neighborhoods, and locate incidents going back to the start of 2005. The mapping tool was published on the Web site in early May and got poor reviews from users, who contended that crime information was missing, the maps were difficult to read, and directions were bad. Since then, police department technology head Maj. Michael Sauter and the Mayor's Office of Technology have redone the model and included numerous features. Users can now look by police district boundaries, neighborhoods, ZIP codes, and other information. In addition, they can email maps and transfer the information onto spreadsheets. Sauter notes that around 95 percent of all uniform crime events will be included in the mapping database.
http://www.nola.com/news/t-p/frontpage/index.ssf?/
base/news-8/118491566289730.xml&coll=1
"Do Tasers Save Lives? DeKalb Takes Another Look"
Atlanta Journal-Constitution (07/23/07); Simpson, David
The DeKalb County, Ga., Police Department, which stopped using Taser stun guns in 2005 due to alleged fatalities, is reconsidering the device. Before DeKalb withdrew its Tasers, the guns had been employed 62 times without a reported injury or complaint by a civilian, notes Maj. J.E. Helms, who heads training for DeKalb police. Helms stresses he does not think Tasers by themselves cause fatalities. DeKalb Police Chief Terrell Bolton has obtained the assistance of Southern Christian Leadership Conference president Charles Steele Jr. in facilitating the comeback of Tasers for DeKalb police. Steele states he is in favor of the decision, so long as officers and medical employees are correctly instructed. Meanwhile, R.K. de Graaf, the vice president of the Fraternal Order of Police's DeKalb chapter, stresses the stun guns protect both officers and suspects from injuries. Nationally, Tasers have been marketed as a way to lower shootings, with varied results. Shootings in Miami are said to have significantly fallen when Tasers are employed, while Houston saw its shooting fatalities rise from two in 2004 to 11 in 2005 after Tasers were distributed to officers.
http://www.ajc.com/metro/content/metro/dekalb/
stories/2007/07/22/taser_0723.html
"Laconia Police Eye Use of TASERs"
Laconia Citizen (NH) (07/20/07)
The Laconia, N.H., Police Department is ready to wrap up another fiscal year and is thinking about employing Taser stun guns. The department has already bought one Taser. While both the Belknap Sheriff's Department and the Tilton Police Department employ Tasers, Laconia Police Chief Tom Oetinger said on July 19 that he wants Lt. Steve Clarke to perform an in-depth study of the guns' utilization across New Hampshire and nationally before they are implemented in Laconia. "While I'm always interested in being ahead of the curve in a lot of areas, technology involving the use of force is something where I tend to be conservative until there is some sort of ability to benchmark it and there has been significant street use by other organizations," Oetinger stated.
http://www.citizen.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=
/20070720/CITIZEN_01/107200345/-1/CITIZEN
"Cameras to Catch Street Action"
Capital Times (WI) (07/19/07) P. B2; Miller, Mike
Police in Madison, Wis., are using video cameras to better monitor a busy downtown area of the city heavily populated by bars and clubs. The department says they hope this new technology will provide a more efficient, cost effective way of monitoring the area. The city has spent an additional $100,000 to up police presence in the downtown district as a response to some recent robberies and disturbances caused by drinkers leaving the bars. One camera will be set up in the area on a trial basis. If the trial proves successful, eight more will be put in place by fall. These cameras will be hooked up to laptops in police cruisers allowing officers to monitor several areas at once. http://www.madison.com
"Homeland Security Grants Aid Vital Communications"
Omaha World-Herald (NE) (07/19/07); Stoddard, Martha
New grants announced on July 18 will provide Iowa and Nebraska significant help in offering police, fire fighters, and additional emergency responders the means to speak with each other. Iowa's 911 project manager, John Benson, explained the new grant will be crucial to his state's communications campaign. Nebraska Emergency Management Agency assistant director Al Berndt added that his state has employed a large percentage of its homeland security money to expand the communications network throughout Nebraska. Nebraska has evolved in enabling law enforcement and first responders to talk with each other within certain areas, he added. The initiative includes new radio equipment and technology. Berndt says the next phase is to expand that ability to the entire state and get state agencies on board. The U.S. government is offering $968 million for communications nationwide, utilizing money presented by Congress in a bill from 2005. http://www.omaha.com/index.php?u_page=2798&u_sid=10081784
"A Full-Scale Immersion in Disaster Training"
Colorado Springs Gazette (07/22/07); Zubeck, Pam
The National Exercise Program's latest simulation center in Washington, D.C., conducted a nationwide emergency response training between April 30 and May 17, engaging emergency responders from 11 states and six federal agencies. The latest nationwide drill, Ardent Sentry, cost $20 million and forced responders to extend their resources as a Category 3 mock hurricane hit New England--affecting seven states--and several other disasters occurred within days. The national center is expected to provide written and electronic synopses of the training simulations involving various local and federal personnel to help local and state governments create their own training programs for emergency responders. The center also will offer tabletop exercises and other localized drill information. Officials at the center say that a nuclear disaster will overwhelm many local response teams and their ability to medically care for the injured and exposed.
http://www.gazette.com/articles/national_25130___article.html/pino_local.html
"La. State Police Crime Lab Shrinks Rape Kit Backlog"
Advocate (07/18/07) P. A1; Vetter, Kimberly
The backlog of sexual-assault kits in Louisiana that have not been examined for DNA evidence has fallen from 3,100 four years ago to 200. Louisiana State Police Crime Laboratory director Capt. Jerry Patrick notes that kits between 2004 and this year exist, and that the remainder of the kits, many of them going back to the 1980s, have been taken care of. Patrick credits the lab's ability to lower its backlog to federal grant funds and an expansion in the lab's DNA program. He adds that processing a single rape kit for DNA information costs between $600 and $1,000. Being able to reduce Louisiana's backlog has created an increase in the ability to resolve cold cases. After a rape kit is processed, the results are studied and put in a database known as the Combined Index System (CODIS). The database employs a pair of indexes to produce investigative crimes in cases where biological proof is found at a crime scene. The Convicted Offender index lists DNA profiles of individuals found guilty of felony sex crimes and additional violent offenses. http://www.2theadvocate.com/news/8566202.html
"State Gears Up to Use Internet to Improve 911 Calls"
Knoxville News-Sentinel (TN) (07/18/07); Jacobs, Don
Emergency Services centers are looking for ways to use the Internet to make responding to a crisis faster and easier. Tennessee is one state already looking to institute a new Web-based technology called Next Generation-911 (NG-911). This system will use a combination of Internet technology and fiber-optics that will allow callers to communicate visual as well as verbal information to dispatchers. The dispatchers will then be able to use the same system to send that message to personnel in the field. It will also allow emergency service workers from across the state to better coordinate their efforts. For example, police will be able to use the system to scan fingerprints during traffic stops. NG-911 can also be used to transmit a 3-D map of a building in a siege situation to help officers find the safest way to extract hostages.
http://www.knoxnews.com/news/2007/jul/18/state-gears-
up-to-use-internet-to-improve-911/
"State-Run Sites Not Effective Vs. Terror"
USA Today (07/23/07); Hall, Mimi
The 42 anti-terrorism "fusion" centers that have been created in 37 states have thus far proved inefficient at sharing information to combat terrorism, according to a new report from the Congressional Research Service. The fusion centers were created with the aim of increasing information-sharing among federal, state, and local law enforcement officials. But many of the centers have strayed from their central anti-terrorism mission and have instead "increasingly gravitated toward an all-crimes and even broader all-hazards approach," the report says. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has provided states with some $380 million in funding to create the fusion centers. One common problem plaguing the centers is that federal agents have resisted sharing information with local police, said Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine), who believes there should be a requirement that federal analysts be posted at each center. One DHS official predicts that by the end of 2008, 35 DHS analysts will be working in the centers.
http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2007-07-23-intel-centers_N.htm
"Notification System Gives Status of Criminal Cases"
Reading Eagle (PA) (07/18/07); Young, Mary E.
Victims and witnesses of crime in Berks County, Pa., might be automatically informed in the near future by email or phone when the defendants in whose cases they had a part are to be set free from jail. Computer equipment would be made available within eight weeks after the county commissioners sanction county involvement in the system. A federal grant of $1.25 million will fund the equipment. Victims and witnesses who choose to be entered into the system will have to offer contact data and utilize a personal identification code to obtain information. The system would inform users when a certain defendant is set free on bail, has finished a jail term, or is sent to another facility. District Attorney Mark C. Baldwin believes the system will be helpful as well to law enforcement officials. The system will eventually have data on prisoners in all 53 of Pennsylvania's county prisons and possibly data on inmates in state jails. The system was scheduled to be voted on July 19. http://readingeagle.com/article.aspx?id=50794
"New Lab Expands N.Y.'s Ability to Analyze DNA"
Newark Star-Ledger (NJ) (07/19/07) P. 32
New York City intends to expand its study of DNA evidence by over 17,000 cases annually, due to a new forensics lab that authorities claim is the biggest in the nation. On July 18, Mayor Michael Bloomberg and other city representatives met to formally launch the Forensic Biology Laboratory of the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. New York City wants to begin studying DNA evidence in over 20,000 cases annually, up from the present 3,000 per year. The facility cost nearly $290 million, and has 75,000 square feet of lab room. Bloomberg explained that the lab would enable New York City to locate criminals, and also rule out innocent individuals and study DNA evidence in crimes beside murder cases, including burglaries. He added that the lab would be utilized as well by the Missing Persons agency and the unit that attempts to locate the remains of World Trade Center victims. Police Commissioner Raymond Kelly stated that police officers would be alternating their protocols to make obtaining DNA an element of more crime investigations. "We'll be increasing our obtaining of DNA samples and training people, our evidence collection teams," Kelly said. http://www.nj.com/news/ledger
"Digital Prints"
Idaho Falls Post Register (07/19/07) P. A1; Wells, Heather
The Rexburg, Idaho, Police Department has been pursuing those who are involved in child pornography with the aid of new software that permits investigators to acquire digital proof from storage devices in computers by making a copy of their hard drives. The software can find files that were rewritten or removed, helping to catch child pornographers and embezzlers, and breaking up drug rings. Rexburg police are now utilizing the Forensic Tool Kit to look into a pair of child pornography cases, and they hope to bring charges soon. Earlier in 2007, Rexburg Police Department Det. Supervisor Lt. Shane Turmin requested a federal grant for $14,000 to buy the tool kit. Though the Idaho Falls Police Department does not employ the kit, it does have access to related software. That department has been able to determine passwords on computers and obtain files as primary evidence in child pornography cases. Last year, 17,291 cyber-crime complaints were filed in this country. http://www.idahonews.com
"Sheriff Welcomes Statewide Role"
New Orleans Times-Picayune (07/19/07) P. 1; Scallan, Matt
The newly elected president of the Louisiana Sheriff's Association says adding technology to the sheriff's department will be a priority for him. St. Charles Parish's Sheriff Greg Champagne says technology is an integral part of the department's operations and should be readily available. "The law says we have to register sex offenders, but about half the departments in the state are still filing paper documents and fingerprints with State Police," Champagne states. To remedy the problem, Champagne says efforts are underway to "get all the departments on the same sex offender [reporting] program." As part of the effort, all of the departments will move to new 700 MHz radio systems so that first responders from various agencies can communicate, and email alert systems will be implemented for residents to let them know when criminals are in their area.
http://www.nola.com/timespic/stories/index.ssf?/
base/news-4/1184833711296930.xml&coll=1
"Watching You: Downtown Camera Proposal Gains Momentum"
Daily Progress (07/18/07); Rosen, Seth
Charlottesville, Va., law enforcement are backing an approximately $300,000 proposal that would install cameras downtown to monitor high-crime areas. Police say aside from circumventing potential crimes in the area, the cameras would also assist in investigations. Councilors say that they need more information about the placement and monitoring of the cameras before reaching a decision, but in light of eight assaults that have taken place downtown in the span of two months, the proposal is gaining momentum. "Whether [the public's safety concerns] are real or perceived, we have a responsibility to try to address it in as many ways as we possibly can," said Police Chief Timothy J. Longo. Although councilors noted that some residents might cite privacy issues as reasons for preventing the surveillance, they say public safety should rank above those concerns. The exact method for monitoring the cameras is still up for discussion, but Longo said the surveillance footage would only be used by law enforcement. Longo also said real-time should be used to stream the footage, yet such technology is also more costly. Charlottesville has no current deadline for receiving the bids or voting on the cameras.
http://www.dailyprogress.com/servlet/Satellite?pagename=CDP/MGArticle/
CDP_BasicArticle&c=MGArticle&cid=1173352040076&path=
"Pepper Spray: Is the Hot Stuff Still Relevant in Our High-Tech Electronic World?"
Police and Security News (06/07) Vol. 23, No. 3, P. 65; Ijames, Steve
The use of pepper spray made with Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) became widespread among the majority of U.S. law enforcement agencies by 1992, and its use is still relevant today. Tests conducted in the late 1990s by the International Association of Chiefs of Police and the University of North Carolina found that OC-based sprays are generally safe and effective and that just two of 63 proximal deaths over a period of five years could be attributed to pepper spray. The report also concluded that pepper spray helped reduce injuries among officers as well as suspects, slashed complaints of excessive force, and was used to successfully handle resistance in 85 percent of the cases where it was used. Compared to TASERs, pepper spray is more affordable, priced at about $12 per officer. The newer versions are also more effective, based on evidence that pain is a result of the portion of capsaicinoid in the product and that cone-shaped delivery units require less accuracy compared to conventional spray tools. Pepper sprays are also effective for cases that go beyond the TASER and when multiple suspects are present. One of the newest pepper spray products is the TigerLight, which features a super-bright light and a concealed blast of pepper spray on the handle end. The device is intended for one-handed use and a study by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Office indicates that compliance among suspects was achieved by deputies in 98 percent of the cases when it was used. http://www.policeandsecuritynews.com
"Interoperability: A 21st Century Name for an Evolving Requirements in Ocean City, Maryland"
Sheriff (06/07) Vol. 59, No. 3, P. 11; Dimaio, Bob
For Ocean City, Md., the meaning of interoperability indicates being able to instantly communicate with people from other agencies, departments, or areas via dependable and high quality service. For example, the governments of Ocean City and Worcester County, Md., distribute separate radio systems that link together via a system-to-system network connection. The radios' programming allows them to work on either system. Every Ocean City radio also features extra channels from the National Public Safety Planning Advisory Committee (NPSPAC) designed to let incompatible radios communicate. A countrywide initiative has been launched to build repeater coverage using these channels, and Maryland is spearheading the effort through projects such as the Maryland Eastern Shore Interoperability Network (MESIN). MESIN provides interoperability to counties through such 800 MHz NPSPAC mutual aid channels as 8Call, 8TAC-1, 8TAC-2, 8TAC-3, and 8TAC-4. MESIN is an IP-based network that features gateways, routers, and a fully redundant switch, utilizing 12 tower sites across Maryland's Eastern Shore for disparate personnel with 800 MHz equipment. In 2006, Ocean City added a self-contained Mobile Command Vehicle that has a stand alone 4 channel trunked radio site that can work in conjunction with or in place of the Ocean City Trucked System. More than 100 portable radios are stored ready for use. Another system that enables interoperability is the ACU1000 Interconnect System that can link low band, VHF band, UHF band, military band, 800 MHz band, and wireless phones; modifications in the field for radios can be made as needed using onboard hardware and software. http://www.sheriffs.org
NLECTC Law Enforcement & Corrections Technology News Summary
Thursday, July 26, 2007
"NOPD Unveils New Crime Maps"
New Orleans Times-Picayune (07/20/07) P. 1; McCarthy, Brendan
On July 19, the New Orleans Police Department launched an upgraded Web site mapping tool that lays out crimes on a map. The tool, located at the bottom of the police department's Web site, permits users to enter any address in New Orleans. At that point, they can look for particular crimes, zoom in and out of certain neighborhoods, and locate incidents going back to the start of 2005. The mapping tool was published on the Web site in early May and got poor reviews from users, who contended that crime information was missing, the maps were difficult to read, and directions were bad. Since then, police department technology head Maj. Michael Sauter and the Mayor's Office of Technology have redone the model and included numerous features. Users can now look by police district boundaries, neighborhoods, ZIP codes, and other information. In addition, they can email maps and transfer the information onto spreadsheets. Sauter notes that around 95 percent of all uniform crime events will be included in the mapping database.
http://www.nola.com/news/t-p/frontpage/index.ssf?/
base/news-8/118491566289730.xml&coll=1
"Do Tasers Save Lives? DeKalb Takes Another Look"
Atlanta Journal-Constitution (07/23/07); Simpson, David
The DeKalb County, Ga., Police Department, which stopped using Taser stun guns in 2005 due to alleged fatalities, is reconsidering the device. Before DeKalb withdrew its Tasers, the guns had been employed 62 times without a reported injury or complaint by a civilian, notes Maj. J.E. Helms, who heads training for DeKalb police. Helms stresses he does not think Tasers by themselves cause fatalities. DeKalb Police Chief Terrell Bolton has obtained the assistance of Southern Christian Leadership Conference president Charles Steele Jr. in facilitating the comeback of Tasers for DeKalb police. Steele states he is in favor of the decision, so long as officers and medical employees are correctly instructed. Meanwhile, R.K. de Graaf, the vice president of the Fraternal Order of Police's DeKalb chapter, stresses the stun guns protect both officers and suspects from injuries. Nationally, Tasers have been marketed as a way to lower shootings, with varied results. Shootings in Miami are said to have significantly fallen when Tasers are employed, while Houston saw its shooting fatalities rise from two in 2004 to 11 in 2005 after Tasers were distributed to officers.
http://www.ajc.com/metro/content/metro/dekalb/
stories/2007/07/22/taser_0723.html
"Laconia Police Eye Use of TASERs"
Laconia Citizen (NH) (07/20/07)
The Laconia, N.H., Police Department is ready to wrap up another fiscal year and is thinking about employing Taser stun guns. The department has already bought one Taser. While both the Belknap Sheriff's Department and the Tilton Police Department employ Tasers, Laconia Police Chief Tom Oetinger said on July 19 that he wants Lt. Steve Clarke to perform an in-depth study of the guns' utilization across New Hampshire and nationally before they are implemented in Laconia. "While I'm always interested in being ahead of the curve in a lot of areas, technology involving the use of force is something where I tend to be conservative until there is some sort of ability to benchmark it and there has been significant street use by other organizations," Oetinger stated.
http://www.citizen.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=
/20070720/CITIZEN_01/107200345/-1/CITIZEN
"Cameras to Catch Street Action"
Capital Times (WI) (07/19/07) P. B2; Miller, Mike
Police in Madison, Wis., are using video cameras to better monitor a busy downtown area of the city heavily populated by bars and clubs. The department says they hope this new technology will provide a more efficient, cost effective way of monitoring the area. The city has spent an additional $100,000 to up police presence in the downtown district as a response to some recent robberies and disturbances caused by drinkers leaving the bars. One camera will be set up in the area on a trial basis. If the trial proves successful, eight more will be put in place by fall. These cameras will be hooked up to laptops in police cruisers allowing officers to monitor several areas at once. http://www.madison.com
"Homeland Security Grants Aid Vital Communications"
Omaha World-Herald (NE) (07/19/07); Stoddard, Martha
New grants announced on July 18 will provide Iowa and Nebraska significant help in offering police, fire fighters, and additional emergency responders the means to speak with each other. Iowa's 911 project manager, John Benson, explained the new grant will be crucial to his state's communications campaign. Nebraska Emergency Management Agency assistant director Al Berndt added that his state has employed a large percentage of its homeland security money to expand the communications network throughout Nebraska. Nebraska has evolved in enabling law enforcement and first responders to talk with each other within certain areas, he added. The initiative includes new radio equipment and technology. Berndt says the next phase is to expand that ability to the entire state and get state agencies on board. The U.S. government is offering $968 million for communications nationwide, utilizing money presented by Congress in a bill from 2005. http://www.omaha.com/index.php?u_page=2798&u_sid=10081784
"A Full-Scale Immersion in Disaster Training"
Colorado Springs Gazette (07/22/07); Zubeck, Pam
The National Exercise Program's latest simulation center in Washington, D.C., conducted a nationwide emergency response training between April 30 and May 17, engaging emergency responders from 11 states and six federal agencies. The latest nationwide drill, Ardent Sentry, cost $20 million and forced responders to extend their resources as a Category 3 mock hurricane hit New England--affecting seven states--and several other disasters occurred within days. The national center is expected to provide written and electronic synopses of the training simulations involving various local and federal personnel to help local and state governments create their own training programs for emergency responders. The center also will offer tabletop exercises and other localized drill information. Officials at the center say that a nuclear disaster will overwhelm many local response teams and their ability to medically care for the injured and exposed.
http://www.gazette.com/articles/national_25130___article.html/pino_local.html
"La. State Police Crime Lab Shrinks Rape Kit Backlog"
Advocate (07/18/07) P. A1; Vetter, Kimberly
The backlog of sexual-assault kits in Louisiana that have not been examined for DNA evidence has fallen from 3,100 four years ago to 200. Louisiana State Police Crime Laboratory director Capt. Jerry Patrick notes that kits between 2004 and this year exist, and that the remainder of the kits, many of them going back to the 1980s, have been taken care of. Patrick credits the lab's ability to lower its backlog to federal grant funds and an expansion in the lab's DNA program. He adds that processing a single rape kit for DNA information costs between $600 and $1,000. Being able to reduce Louisiana's backlog has created an increase in the ability to resolve cold cases. After a rape kit is processed, the results are studied and put in a database known as the Combined Index System (CODIS). The database employs a pair of indexes to produce investigative crimes in cases where biological proof is found at a crime scene. The Convicted Offender index lists DNA profiles of individuals found guilty of felony sex crimes and additional violent offenses. http://www.2theadvocate.com/news/8566202.html
"State Gears Up to Use Internet to Improve 911 Calls"
Knoxville News-Sentinel (TN) (07/18/07); Jacobs, Don
Emergency Services centers are looking for ways to use the Internet to make responding to a crisis faster and easier. Tennessee is one state already looking to institute a new Web-based technology called Next Generation-911 (NG-911). This system will use a combination of Internet technology and fiber-optics that will allow callers to communicate visual as well as verbal information to dispatchers. The dispatchers will then be able to use the same system to send that message to personnel in the field. It will also allow emergency service workers from across the state to better coordinate their efforts. For example, police will be able to use the system to scan fingerprints during traffic stops. NG-911 can also be used to transmit a 3-D map of a building in a siege situation to help officers find the safest way to extract hostages.
http://www.knoxnews.com/news/2007/jul/18/state-gears-
up-to-use-internet-to-improve-911/
"State-Run Sites Not Effective Vs. Terror"
USA Today (07/23/07); Hall, Mimi
The 42 anti-terrorism "fusion" centers that have been created in 37 states have thus far proved inefficient at sharing information to combat terrorism, according to a new report from the Congressional Research Service. The fusion centers were created with the aim of increasing information-sharing among federal, state, and local law enforcement officials. But many of the centers have strayed from their central anti-terrorism mission and have instead "increasingly gravitated toward an all-crimes and even broader all-hazards approach," the report says. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has provided states with some $380 million in funding to create the fusion centers. One common problem plaguing the centers is that federal agents have resisted sharing information with local police, said Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine), who believes there should be a requirement that federal analysts be posted at each center. One DHS official predicts that by the end of 2008, 35 DHS analysts will be working in the centers.
http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2007-07-23-intel-centers_N.htm
"Notification System Gives Status of Criminal Cases"
Reading Eagle (PA) (07/18/07); Young, Mary E.
Victims and witnesses of crime in Berks County, Pa., might be automatically informed in the near future by email or phone when the defendants in whose cases they had a part are to be set free from jail. Computer equipment would be made available within eight weeks after the county commissioners sanction county involvement in the system. A federal grant of $1.25 million will fund the equipment. Victims and witnesses who choose to be entered into the system will have to offer contact data and utilize a personal identification code to obtain information. The system would inform users when a certain defendant is set free on bail, has finished a jail term, or is sent to another facility. District Attorney Mark C. Baldwin believes the system will be helpful as well to law enforcement officials. The system will eventually have data on prisoners in all 53 of Pennsylvania's county prisons and possibly data on inmates in state jails. The system was scheduled to be voted on July 19. http://readingeagle.com/article.aspx?id=50794
"New Lab Expands N.Y.'s Ability to Analyze DNA"
Newark Star-Ledger (NJ) (07/19/07) P. 32
New York City intends to expand its study of DNA evidence by over 17,000 cases annually, due to a new forensics lab that authorities claim is the biggest in the nation. On July 18, Mayor Michael Bloomberg and other city representatives met to formally launch the Forensic Biology Laboratory of the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. New York City wants to begin studying DNA evidence in over 20,000 cases annually, up from the present 3,000 per year. The facility cost nearly $290 million, and has 75,000 square feet of lab room. Bloomberg explained that the lab would enable New York City to locate criminals, and also rule out innocent individuals and study DNA evidence in crimes beside murder cases, including burglaries. He added that the lab would be utilized as well by the Missing Persons agency and the unit that attempts to locate the remains of World Trade Center victims. Police Commissioner Raymond Kelly stated that police officers would be alternating their protocols to make obtaining DNA an element of more crime investigations. "We'll be increasing our obtaining of DNA samples and training people, our evidence collection teams," Kelly said. http://www.nj.com/news/ledger
"Digital Prints"
Idaho Falls Post Register (07/19/07) P. A1; Wells, Heather
The Rexburg, Idaho, Police Department has been pursuing those who are involved in child pornography with the aid of new software that permits investigators to acquire digital proof from storage devices in computers by making a copy of their hard drives. The software can find files that were rewritten or removed, helping to catch child pornographers and embezzlers, and breaking up drug rings. Rexburg police are now utilizing the Forensic Tool Kit to look into a pair of child pornography cases, and they hope to bring charges soon. Earlier in 2007, Rexburg Police Department Det. Supervisor Lt. Shane Turmin requested a federal grant for $14,000 to buy the tool kit. Though the Idaho Falls Police Department does not employ the kit, it does have access to related software. That department has been able to determine passwords on computers and obtain files as primary evidence in child pornography cases. Last year, 17,291 cyber-crime complaints were filed in this country. http://www.idahonews.com
"Sheriff Welcomes Statewide Role"
New Orleans Times-Picayune (07/19/07) P. 1; Scallan, Matt
The newly elected president of the Louisiana Sheriff's Association says adding technology to the sheriff's department will be a priority for him. St. Charles Parish's Sheriff Greg Champagne says technology is an integral part of the department's operations and should be readily available. "The law says we have to register sex offenders, but about half the departments in the state are still filing paper documents and fingerprints with State Police," Champagne states. To remedy the problem, Champagne says efforts are underway to "get all the departments on the same sex offender [reporting] program." As part of the effort, all of the departments will move to new 700 MHz radio systems so that first responders from various agencies can communicate, and email alert systems will be implemented for residents to let them know when criminals are in their area.
http://www.nola.com/timespic/stories/index.ssf?/
base/news-4/1184833711296930.xml&coll=1
"Watching You: Downtown Camera Proposal Gains Momentum"
Daily Progress (07/18/07); Rosen, Seth
Charlottesville, Va., law enforcement are backing an approximately $300,000 proposal that would install cameras downtown to monitor high-crime areas. Police say aside from circumventing potential crimes in the area, the cameras would also assist in investigations. Councilors say that they need more information about the placement and monitoring of the cameras before reaching a decision, but in light of eight assaults that have taken place downtown in the span of two months, the proposal is gaining momentum. "Whether [the public's safety concerns] are real or perceived, we have a responsibility to try to address it in as many ways as we possibly can," said Police Chief Timothy J. Longo. Although councilors noted that some residents might cite privacy issues as reasons for preventing the surveillance, they say public safety should rank above those concerns. The exact method for monitoring the cameras is still up for discussion, but Longo said the surveillance footage would only be used by law enforcement. Longo also said real-time should be used to stream the footage, yet such technology is also more costly. Charlottesville has no current deadline for receiving the bids or voting on the cameras.
http://www.dailyprogress.com/servlet/Satellite?pagename=CDP/MGArticle/
CDP_BasicArticle&c=MGArticle&cid=1173352040076&path=
"Pepper Spray: Is the Hot Stuff Still Relevant in Our High-Tech Electronic World?"
Police and Security News (06/07) Vol. 23, No. 3, P. 65; Ijames, Steve
The use of pepper spray made with Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) became widespread among the majority of U.S. law enforcement agencies by 1992, and its use is still relevant today. Tests conducted in the late 1990s by the International Association of Chiefs of Police and the University of North Carolina found that OC-based sprays are generally safe and effective and that just two of 63 proximal deaths over a period of five years could be attributed to pepper spray. The report also concluded that pepper spray helped reduce injuries among officers as well as suspects, slashed complaints of excessive force, and was used to successfully handle resistance in 85 percent of the cases where it was used. Compared to TASERs, pepper spray is more affordable, priced at about $12 per officer. The newer versions are also more effective, based on evidence that pain is a result of the portion of capsaicinoid in the product and that cone-shaped delivery units require less accuracy compared to conventional spray tools. Pepper sprays are also effective for cases that go beyond the TASER and when multiple suspects are present. One of the newest pepper spray products is the TigerLight, which features a super-bright light and a concealed blast of pepper spray on the handle end. The device is intended for one-handed use and a study by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Office indicates that compliance among suspects was achieved by deputies in 98 percent of the cases when it was used. http://www.policeandsecuritynews.com
"Interoperability: A 21st Century Name for an Evolving Requirements in Ocean City, Maryland"
Sheriff (06/07) Vol. 59, No. 3, P. 11; Dimaio, Bob
For Ocean City, Md., the meaning of interoperability indicates being able to instantly communicate with people from other agencies, departments, or areas via dependable and high quality service. For example, the governments of Ocean City and Worcester County, Md., distribute separate radio systems that link together via a system-to-system network connection. The radios' programming allows them to work on either system. Every Ocean City radio also features extra channels from the National Public Safety Planning Advisory Committee (NPSPAC) designed to let incompatible radios communicate. A countrywide initiative has been launched to build repeater coverage using these channels, and Maryland is spearheading the effort through projects such as the Maryland Eastern Shore Interoperability Network (MESIN). MESIN provides interoperability to counties through such 800 MHz NPSPAC mutual aid channels as 8Call, 8TAC-1, 8TAC-2, 8TAC-3, and 8TAC-4. MESIN is an IP-based network that features gateways, routers, and a fully redundant switch, utilizing 12 tower sites across Maryland's Eastern Shore for disparate personnel with 800 MHz equipment. In 2006, Ocean City added a self-contained Mobile Command Vehicle that has a stand alone 4 channel trunked radio site that can work in conjunction with or in place of the Ocean City Trucked System. More than 100 portable radios are stored ready for use. Another system that enables interoperability is the ACU1000 Interconnect System that can link low band, VHF band, UHF band, military band, 800 MHz band, and wireless phones; modifications in the field for radios can be made as needed using onboard hardware and software. http://www.sheriffs.org
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Troops Nab 48 Suspects, Kill One Insurgent in Iraq
American Forces Press Service
July 25, 2007 - Combined Iraqi and U.S. forces captured 48 suspected terrorists, killed one insurgent and seized weapons and bombs in Iraq over the past three days, military officials said. During an operation today in Tarmiyah, troops detained 10 suspected terrorists. The detainees have alleged ties to an al Qaeda in Iraq leader known for coordinating car-bomb attacks in Baghdad.
Coalition forces netted six suspected terrorists in coordinated raids in Samarra today. During one operation, troops detained five individuals who allegedly are associated with al Qaeda leaders in central Iraq responsible for helping foreign terrorists move into the country. In a separate operation there, coalition forces detained one suspected terrorist who officials said is a close associate of al Qaeda leaders in Baghdad.
During raids targeting key al Qaeda in Iraq leaders in Mosul this morning, coalition forces nabbed three suspected terrorists. One is believed to be the al Qaeda in Iraq administrative emir for Mosul, military officials said.
Elsewhere, troops apprehended one suspected terrorist today during a raid targeting the al Qaeda in Iraq network in Baghdad.
"With every operation coalition forces conduct, we are further degrading and destroying the al Qaeda in Iraq network," said Army Maj. Marc Young, a Multinational Force Iraq spokesman. "Al Qaeda and its foreign leadership seek only to bring violence and fear to the Iraqi people in its attempt to prevent a secure and democratic Iraq."
In Baghdad on July 23:
-- Iraqi security forces and U.S. Special Forces advisors detained 13 suspected al Qaeda members during two operations near Baghdad. Eight suspects are linked to an al Qaeda cell involved in sniper operations and death squad activities near Hayy Aamel. The five others reportedly are involved in al Qaeda sniper and death squad activities near Tib, military officials said.
-- A series of five explosions killed 11 Iraqi civilians and wounded 20 others in central and eastern Baghdad. Those wounded in the attacks are receiving medical treatment.
-- Apache crews from Multinational Division Baghdad teamed with ground forces to disrupt an insurgent attack north of Baghdad. A ground patrol later seized four insurgents involved in the fighting and confiscated nine handguns, ammunition and explosive-making materials.
-- Troops captured three suspected insurgents and recovered a weapons cache in eastern Baghdad's Adhamiyah district. The stockpile contained eight mortar rounds, five rocket-propelled grenade launchers and three rockets, seven grenades, and 1,800 rounds of small-arms ammunition. An explosive ordnance disposal team removed the cache.
-- Multinational Division Baghdad troops seized a large cache containing mortar tubes, munitions and significant amounts of homemade explosives in the southern portion of the Iraqi capital. An explosive ordnance disposal team destroyed the cache in place after troops cordoned off the area.
-- Two children died, and a woman and her daughter were injured after mortar rounds, believed to be fired by al Qaeda operatives, landed in the village of Awad. Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers responded, and the wounded girl and her mother were immediately evacuated via helicopter to a coalition combat support hospital after receiving immediate care at the patrol base.
Elsewhere in Iraq on July 23:
-- Iraqi Security Forces killed an al Qaeda cell's senior leader and detained seven suspected insurgents in a series of early-morning raids at a terrorist training camp northeast of Karmah.
-- Combined Iraqi and U.S. troops operating near Hillah detained a key member of Jaysh al-Mahdi, a rogue militia group. The suspect allegedly is responsible for emplacing improvised explosive devices and explosively formed penetrators that killed several coalition force members when the explosives detonated along Iraqi and coalition force supply routes.
(Compiled from Multinational Corps Iraq, Multinational Force Iraq and Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force Arabian Peninsula news releases.)
July 25, 2007 - Combined Iraqi and U.S. forces captured 48 suspected terrorists, killed one insurgent and seized weapons and bombs in Iraq over the past three days, military officials said. During an operation today in Tarmiyah, troops detained 10 suspected terrorists. The detainees have alleged ties to an al Qaeda in Iraq leader known for coordinating car-bomb attacks in Baghdad.
Coalition forces netted six suspected terrorists in coordinated raids in Samarra today. During one operation, troops detained five individuals who allegedly are associated with al Qaeda leaders in central Iraq responsible for helping foreign terrorists move into the country. In a separate operation there, coalition forces detained one suspected terrorist who officials said is a close associate of al Qaeda leaders in Baghdad.
During raids targeting key al Qaeda in Iraq leaders in Mosul this morning, coalition forces nabbed three suspected terrorists. One is believed to be the al Qaeda in Iraq administrative emir for Mosul, military officials said.
Elsewhere, troops apprehended one suspected terrorist today during a raid targeting the al Qaeda in Iraq network in Baghdad.
"With every operation coalition forces conduct, we are further degrading and destroying the al Qaeda in Iraq network," said Army Maj. Marc Young, a Multinational Force Iraq spokesman. "Al Qaeda and its foreign leadership seek only to bring violence and fear to the Iraqi people in its attempt to prevent a secure and democratic Iraq."
In Baghdad on July 23:
-- Iraqi security forces and U.S. Special Forces advisors detained 13 suspected al Qaeda members during two operations near Baghdad. Eight suspects are linked to an al Qaeda cell involved in sniper operations and death squad activities near Hayy Aamel. The five others reportedly are involved in al Qaeda sniper and death squad activities near Tib, military officials said.
-- A series of five explosions killed 11 Iraqi civilians and wounded 20 others in central and eastern Baghdad. Those wounded in the attacks are receiving medical treatment.
-- Apache crews from Multinational Division Baghdad teamed with ground forces to disrupt an insurgent attack north of Baghdad. A ground patrol later seized four insurgents involved in the fighting and confiscated nine handguns, ammunition and explosive-making materials.
-- Troops captured three suspected insurgents and recovered a weapons cache in eastern Baghdad's Adhamiyah district. The stockpile contained eight mortar rounds, five rocket-propelled grenade launchers and three rockets, seven grenades, and 1,800 rounds of small-arms ammunition. An explosive ordnance disposal team removed the cache.
-- Multinational Division Baghdad troops seized a large cache containing mortar tubes, munitions and significant amounts of homemade explosives in the southern portion of the Iraqi capital. An explosive ordnance disposal team destroyed the cache in place after troops cordoned off the area.
-- Two children died, and a woman and her daughter were injured after mortar rounds, believed to be fired by al Qaeda operatives, landed in the village of Awad. Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers responded, and the wounded girl and her mother were immediately evacuated via helicopter to a coalition combat support hospital after receiving immediate care at the patrol base.
Elsewhere in Iraq on July 23:
-- Iraqi Security Forces killed an al Qaeda cell's senior leader and detained seven suspected insurgents in a series of early-morning raids at a terrorist training camp northeast of Karmah.
-- Combined Iraqi and U.S. troops operating near Hillah detained a key member of Jaysh al-Mahdi, a rogue militia group. The suspect allegedly is responsible for emplacing improvised explosive devices and explosively formed penetrators that killed several coalition force members when the explosives detonated along Iraqi and coalition force supply routes.
(Compiled from Multinational Corps Iraq, Multinational Force Iraq and Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force Arabian Peninsula news releases.)
Troops in Afghanistan Making Progress, Striving to Minimize Civilian Casualties
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
July 25, 2007 - U.S. and coalition troops operating in Afghanistan are taking all measures possible to minimize civilian casualties, the top U.S. commander there told Pentagon reporters today. "We work very, very hard with both precision intelligence and information to ensure that we do not put civilians at risk," Army Maj. Gen. David Rodriguez, commander of Combined Joint Task Force 82 and the 82nd Airborne Division, said via teleconference from Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan.
Rodriguez acknowledged that avoiding civilian casualties is a big challenge, particularly when the enemy doesn't wear uniforms and blends into the general population.
"We take the civilian casualties seriously and work very, very hard in every single situation to ensure that the actions we take are required militarily to accomplish the mission and are proportional to the situation we're involved in," he said. "And we review those continually to ensure that we are best protecting the people."
When casualties do occur, the troops strive to ensure the most accurate reporting possible to minimize misinformation. Rodriguez cited an example in which eight civilians were confirmed killed, but different media sources reported that number as high as 50. "So there's a significant potential for a wide range of reports in the newspapers or with the insurgent propaganda," he said.
Overall, Rodriguez said, the security situation continues to improve as more Afghan forces get trained and expand their responsibilities. "The Afghan national security forces are continuing to build their capacity and increasingly taking the lead during planning and operations," he said.
Progress is particularly good in the Afghan National Army, he said, but more trainers are needed to match those strides within the police force.
The Taliban continues to make up the biggest percentage of the insurgency, but the al Qaeda network is at work, too, and introducing the most foreign fighters into Afghanistan, he said.
Rodriguez cited challenges of the porous Pakistan-Afghanistan border region but said troops are working to reduce the flow of insurgents across it. "There's about three areas where we have challenges with foreign fighters, and we continue to target them as best we possibly can," he said.
Cross-border attacks in June were higher than a year earlier, but Rodriguez noted that the rate dropped this month. He attributed the trend to Pakistani military operations along the border and the increased presence of troops from Combined Joint Task Force 82, NATO's International Security Assistance Force, and Afghan national security forces in larger sections of Afghanistan. These units "are helping the government of Afghanistan to extend its reach ... to the people and developing a stable and secure environment for the country," he said.
Rodriguez praised his own "All American Division" troops, who have endured multiple deployments but "continue to perform magnificently." They understand the difference they are making in Afghanistan and serve with the solid support of their families at home at Fort Bragg, N.C., he said.
"There is still a lot of work to do," Rodriguez acknowledged. "But with every project completed and every mission finished, Afghanistan's one step closer to the peace and stability the people of Afghanistan deserve and the enemies of freedom would deny them.
American Forces Press Service
July 25, 2007 - U.S. and coalition troops operating in Afghanistan are taking all measures possible to minimize civilian casualties, the top U.S. commander there told Pentagon reporters today. "We work very, very hard with both precision intelligence and information to ensure that we do not put civilians at risk," Army Maj. Gen. David Rodriguez, commander of Combined Joint Task Force 82 and the 82nd Airborne Division, said via teleconference from Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan.
Rodriguez acknowledged that avoiding civilian casualties is a big challenge, particularly when the enemy doesn't wear uniforms and blends into the general population.
"We take the civilian casualties seriously and work very, very hard in every single situation to ensure that the actions we take are required militarily to accomplish the mission and are proportional to the situation we're involved in," he said. "And we review those continually to ensure that we are best protecting the people."
When casualties do occur, the troops strive to ensure the most accurate reporting possible to minimize misinformation. Rodriguez cited an example in which eight civilians were confirmed killed, but different media sources reported that number as high as 50. "So there's a significant potential for a wide range of reports in the newspapers or with the insurgent propaganda," he said.
Overall, Rodriguez said, the security situation continues to improve as more Afghan forces get trained and expand their responsibilities. "The Afghan national security forces are continuing to build their capacity and increasingly taking the lead during planning and operations," he said.
Progress is particularly good in the Afghan National Army, he said, but more trainers are needed to match those strides within the police force.
The Taliban continues to make up the biggest percentage of the insurgency, but the al Qaeda network is at work, too, and introducing the most foreign fighters into Afghanistan, he said.
Rodriguez cited challenges of the porous Pakistan-Afghanistan border region but said troops are working to reduce the flow of insurgents across it. "There's about three areas where we have challenges with foreign fighters, and we continue to target them as best we possibly can," he said.
Cross-border attacks in June were higher than a year earlier, but Rodriguez noted that the rate dropped this month. He attributed the trend to Pakistani military operations along the border and the increased presence of troops from Combined Joint Task Force 82, NATO's International Security Assistance Force, and Afghan national security forces in larger sections of Afghanistan. These units "are helping the government of Afghanistan to extend its reach ... to the people and developing a stable and secure environment for the country," he said.
Rodriguez praised his own "All American Division" troops, who have endured multiple deployments but "continue to perform magnificently." They understand the difference they are making in Afghanistan and serve with the solid support of their families at home at Fort Bragg, N.C., he said.
"There is still a lot of work to do," Rodriguez acknowledged. "But with every project completed and every mission finished, Afghanistan's one step closer to the peace and stability the people of Afghanistan deserve and the enemies of freedom would deny them.
Reconstruction Teams Help Iraqis Connect With Central Government
By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service
July 25, 2007 - The 25 provincial reconstruction teams operating across Iraq are showing local authorities how to work with the country's central government to obtain needed services, a senior U.S. State Department official said today. This situation is far different from Saddam Hussein's rule, when dispensation of coveted goods and essential services was the sole province of his Stalinist-styled regime that tended to favor only those communities that were unquestionably loyal, Philip T. Reeker, a U.S. State Department spokesman assigned in Baghdad, said during a teleconference with reporters.
Today, PRTs are helping Iraq's provincial governments deliver essential services to their citizens, and they also serve as "a bridge between central government and these more local authorities," Reeker explained.
There is at least one PRT in each of Iraq's 18 provinces, Reeker said, noting that Baghdad has several PRTs. Many PRT specialists come from the National Guard or reserves. These organizations help establish stability in Iraq by building capacity in areas such as government, economics, rule of law, services, infrastructure and public diplomacy.
The 25 PRTs in Iraq have more than doubled in number from the 10 that existed in April, as part of the president's new way-forward strategy, Reeker said. The PRT effort is a joint coalition endeavor, he pointed out, noting that British-, Italian- and Korean-led PRTs also are working in Iraq.
American-led PRTs receive technical support from U.S. military experts, various U.S. government agencies, and the private sector. Help comes from agencies including the U.S. Agency for International Development and the departments of Justice and Agriculture.
Smaller PRTs designed to be embedded within U.S. military units also are being established, Reeker reported. These embedded PRTs "will move with that military unit as it moves," he said.
PRT personnel represent the military and civilian realms and possess expertise in areas such as electricity, health care, water and sewage treatment, animal husbandry, and more, Reeker said. "You really see this unique linkage of civilians and military," he said.
American Forces Press Service
July 25, 2007 - The 25 provincial reconstruction teams operating across Iraq are showing local authorities how to work with the country's central government to obtain needed services, a senior U.S. State Department official said today. This situation is far different from Saddam Hussein's rule, when dispensation of coveted goods and essential services was the sole province of his Stalinist-styled regime that tended to favor only those communities that were unquestionably loyal, Philip T. Reeker, a U.S. State Department spokesman assigned in Baghdad, said during a teleconference with reporters.
Today, PRTs are helping Iraq's provincial governments deliver essential services to their citizens, and they also serve as "a bridge between central government and these more local authorities," Reeker explained.
There is at least one PRT in each of Iraq's 18 provinces, Reeker said, noting that Baghdad has several PRTs. Many PRT specialists come from the National Guard or reserves. These organizations help establish stability in Iraq by building capacity in areas such as government, economics, rule of law, services, infrastructure and public diplomacy.
The 25 PRTs in Iraq have more than doubled in number from the 10 that existed in April, as part of the president's new way-forward strategy, Reeker said. The PRT effort is a joint coalition endeavor, he pointed out, noting that British-, Italian- and Korean-led PRTs also are working in Iraq.
American-led PRTs receive technical support from U.S. military experts, various U.S. government agencies, and the private sector. Help comes from agencies including the U.S. Agency for International Development and the departments of Justice and Agriculture.
Smaller PRTs designed to be embedded within U.S. military units also are being established, Reeker reported. These embedded PRTs "will move with that military unit as it moves," he said.
PRT personnel represent the military and civilian realms and possess expertise in areas such as electricity, health care, water and sewage treatment, animal husbandry, and more, Reeker said. "You really see this unique linkage of civilians and military," he said.
Terrorists' Weapons Being Found in 'Remarkable Numbers,' Admiral Says
By Carmen L. Gleason
American Forces Press Service
July 25, 2007 - The surge of American forces in Iraq has brought about tangible results on the ground, a U.S. military spokesman said during a news conference today in Baghdad. Within the past few days, numerous operations have resulted in the discovery of a "remarkable number" of arms caches in areas throughout Iraq, said Navy Rear Adm. Mark I. Fox, a spokesman for Multinational Force Iraq.
During routine offensive operations July 23, forces discovered nine weapons stockpiles containing 391 mortar rounds, 252 rockets, 21 rifles and pistols, 28 grenades, and multiple homemade weapons, including 475 gallons of nitric acid and 5,000 pounds of fertilizer, he told reporters.
"We are seeing increasingly positive trends in the number of weapons and explosives being taken from the enemy," Fox said. "Forces have seized more weapons caches in the first half of 2007 than all of last year."
The reason for the "dramatic increase" is the volume and accuracy of tips coming from local Iraqi citizens, the admiral said. More than 2,300 tips are coming in to coalition and Iraqi forces on a monthly basis -- four times greater than at the same time last year
Local Iraqis are able to lead forces to weapons stockpiles that couldn't be found otherwise, he said.
Fox said the increase is a result of how coalition and Iraqi security forces are "holding the initiative" by pressuring terrorists, keeping them off balance and constantly being on the move with a mobility and reach that exceeds that of the past four years.
"The combination of surge forces, of increasing local intelligence, growing pressure on the enemy, and the removal of (enemy) sanctuaries reflects, once again, units in the 'pursuit phase' of Phantom Thunder," Fox said.
Iraqi security forces are key partners in the effort, as well, Fox said. He told reporters of an Iraqi pilot who thwarted the piracy of Iraqi oil by thieves during an Iraqi security force operation last week.
"We often speak of one team, one mission," he said. "(Multinational Force Iraq), Army Corps of Engineers and our Iraq counterparts have literally linked arms to do just that.
"The way forward requires more than just military success," Fox said. "We're committed to working side by side to support the Iraq government's effort provide a secure, stable and self-governing nation."
American Forces Press Service
July 25, 2007 - The surge of American forces in Iraq has brought about tangible results on the ground, a U.S. military spokesman said during a news conference today in Baghdad. Within the past few days, numerous operations have resulted in the discovery of a "remarkable number" of arms caches in areas throughout Iraq, said Navy Rear Adm. Mark I. Fox, a spokesman for Multinational Force Iraq.
During routine offensive operations July 23, forces discovered nine weapons stockpiles containing 391 mortar rounds, 252 rockets, 21 rifles and pistols, 28 grenades, and multiple homemade weapons, including 475 gallons of nitric acid and 5,000 pounds of fertilizer, he told reporters.
"We are seeing increasingly positive trends in the number of weapons and explosives being taken from the enemy," Fox said. "Forces have seized more weapons caches in the first half of 2007 than all of last year."
The reason for the "dramatic increase" is the volume and accuracy of tips coming from local Iraqi citizens, the admiral said. More than 2,300 tips are coming in to coalition and Iraqi forces on a monthly basis -- four times greater than at the same time last year
Local Iraqis are able to lead forces to weapons stockpiles that couldn't be found otherwise, he said.
Fox said the increase is a result of how coalition and Iraqi security forces are "holding the initiative" by pressuring terrorists, keeping them off balance and constantly being on the move with a mobility and reach that exceeds that of the past four years.
"The combination of surge forces, of increasing local intelligence, growing pressure on the enemy, and the removal of (enemy) sanctuaries reflects, once again, units in the 'pursuit phase' of Phantom Thunder," Fox said.
Iraqi security forces are key partners in the effort, as well, Fox said. He told reporters of an Iraqi pilot who thwarted the piracy of Iraqi oil by thieves during an Iraqi security force operation last week.
"We often speak of one team, one mission," he said. "(Multinational Force Iraq), Army Corps of Engineers and our Iraq counterparts have literally linked arms to do just that.
"The way forward requires more than just military success," Fox said. "We're committed to working side by side to support the Iraq government's effort provide a secure, stable and self-governing nation."
Navy Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a sailor who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Hospitalman Daniel S. Noble, 21, of Whittier, Calif., died July 24, as a result of enemy action while conducting security operations in the Dilaya Province, Iraq. He was permanently assigned to 1st Marine Division, Fleet Marine Force Pacific, Camp Pendleton, Calif.
For further information related to this release, contact Navy Public Affairs at (703) 697-5342, or Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton Public Affairs at (760) 725 5011
Hospitalman Daniel S. Noble, 21, of Whittier, Calif., died July 24, as a result of enemy action while conducting security operations in the Dilaya Province, Iraq. He was permanently assigned to 1st Marine Division, Fleet Marine Force Pacific, Camp Pendleton, Calif.
For further information related to this release, contact Navy Public Affairs at (703) 697-5342, or Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton Public Affairs at (760) 725 5011
Army Casualties
The Department of Defense announced today the death of four soldiers who were supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. They died July 23 in Sarobi District, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near their vehicle. They were assigned to the 1st Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment (Airborne), 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team, Vicenza, Italy.
Killed were:
1st Sgt. Michael S. Curry Jr., 37, of Dania Beach, Fla.
Sgt. Travon T. Johnson, 29, of Palmdale, Calif.
Pfc. Adam J. Davis, 19, of Twin Falls, Idaho.
Pfc. Jessy S. Rogers, 20, of Copper Center, Alaska.
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.
Killed were:
1st Sgt. Michael S. Curry Jr., 37, of Dania Beach, Fla.
Sgt. Travon T. Johnson, 29, of Palmdale, Calif.
Pfc. Adam J. Davis, 19, of Twin Falls, Idaho.
Pfc. Jessy S. Rogers, 20, of Copper Center, Alaska.
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.
Afghan Army, Coalition Forces Repel Taliban Ambushes
American Forces Press Service
July 24, 2007 - Afghan and coalition forces killed numerous Taliban fighters in defeating ambushes yesterday and today. An unknown number of insurgents ambushed a group of Afghan National Army and police troops advised by coalition forces on a combat patrol near the village of Sarizkay in Afghanistan's Kandahar province this morning.
The Afghan army-led patrol was about to pass through the village when Taliban fighters attempted the ambush, U.S. officials said. The combined forces repelled the attack with small-arms fire, and coalition aircraft dropped four bombs and made several strafing runs on the insurgent positions. Several insurgents are believed to have been killed during the skirmish, officials said.
Intelligence suggests that Taliban forces are likely attempting to reassert their presence in northern Kandahar after their recent defeats from Afghan and coalition operations in the area during the past several weeks, U.S. officials said.
In other news from Afghanistan, Afghan national security forces advised by coalition forces successfully defeated a Taliban ambush in Helmand province yesterday.
Taliban insurgents engaged an Afghan-led patrol four kilometers northeast of the village of Gorazon. The insurgents attacked from three separate compounds near Gorazon with 107 mm rockets, heavy machine guns, mortars, rocket-propelled grenades and small arms.
The Afghan and coalition forces immediately returned fire and called in close-air support to destroy the enemy fighters' compounds.
Coalition aircraft dropped three bombs, each on a separate compound, during this encounter. The Afghan-led patrol killed more than three dozen insurgent fighters with small-arms and mortar fire and precision air strikes.
"(Afghan) and coalition forces are defeating the insurgents in an area of Afghanistan that is considered a Taliban safe haven," said Army Maj. Chris Belcher, a Combined Joint Task Force 82 spokesman. "The Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and the coalition will not cede any area of this country to the insurgents. We will continue to find and destroy the enemy until they realize that there is no safe haven to be found in this country."
(Compiled from Combined Joint Task Force 82 news releases.)
July 24, 2007 - Afghan and coalition forces killed numerous Taliban fighters in defeating ambushes yesterday and today. An unknown number of insurgents ambushed a group of Afghan National Army and police troops advised by coalition forces on a combat patrol near the village of Sarizkay in Afghanistan's Kandahar province this morning.
The Afghan army-led patrol was about to pass through the village when Taliban fighters attempted the ambush, U.S. officials said. The combined forces repelled the attack with small-arms fire, and coalition aircraft dropped four bombs and made several strafing runs on the insurgent positions. Several insurgents are believed to have been killed during the skirmish, officials said.
Intelligence suggests that Taliban forces are likely attempting to reassert their presence in northern Kandahar after their recent defeats from Afghan and coalition operations in the area during the past several weeks, U.S. officials said.
In other news from Afghanistan, Afghan national security forces advised by coalition forces successfully defeated a Taliban ambush in Helmand province yesterday.
Taliban insurgents engaged an Afghan-led patrol four kilometers northeast of the village of Gorazon. The insurgents attacked from three separate compounds near Gorazon with 107 mm rockets, heavy machine guns, mortars, rocket-propelled grenades and small arms.
The Afghan and coalition forces immediately returned fire and called in close-air support to destroy the enemy fighters' compounds.
Coalition aircraft dropped three bombs, each on a separate compound, during this encounter. The Afghan-led patrol killed more than three dozen insurgent fighters with small-arms and mortar fire and precision air strikes.
"(Afghan) and coalition forces are defeating the insurgents in an area of Afghanistan that is considered a Taliban safe haven," said Army Maj. Chris Belcher, a Combined Joint Task Force 82 spokesman. "The Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and the coalition will not cede any area of this country to the insurgents. We will continue to find and destroy the enemy until they realize that there is no safe haven to be found in this country."
(Compiled from Combined Joint Task Force 82 news releases.)
Suspected Terrorists Detained in Iraq, al Qaeda Cell Leader Killed
American Forces Press Service
July 24, 2007 - Iraqi and coalition forces detained numerous suspected terrorists and killed an al Qaeda in Iraq cell leader in operations over the last three days, military officials reported. Three synchronized raids west of Taji today targeted al Qaeda operatives associated with senior terrorist leaders and criminal activity. Coalition forces captured one individual suspected of attacking coalition forces and detained 15 others for their alleged links to hijackings and weapons facilitation.
Also today, during a raid northwest of Balad, coalition forces captured a foreign terrorist suspected of involvement in a suicide car-bomb attack in Samarra and detained three other suspected terrorists for their alleged ties to the foreign terrorist.
"We're continuing to hunt down those who terrorize the people of Iraq," said Army Maj. Marc Young, a Multinational Force Iraq spokesman. "Criminals and foreign terrorists have no place in the future of this country."
In operations yesterday, Iraqi security forces killed a senior member of an al Qaeda cell and detained seven suspected insurgents in a series of early-morning raids at a terrorist training camp.
With coalition forces present as advisors, Iraqi security forces cleared a series of buildings located on an abandoned Iraqi army base in the Hamrah region, northeast of Karmah. Iraqi security forces were engaged by an enemy shooter at one of their objectives. An assault team moved to positively identify and kill the shooter, a senior al Qaeda cell member. Various rifles, pictures and identification cards also were seized during the operation.
The abandoned base reportedly was being used as a training facility and safe house for active insurgents and foreign fighters. Several insurgent groups from Fallujah and other western Iraqi cities are suspected to have used the facility for small-arms training and other activities, U.S. officials said.
In other news, Iraqi soldiers, with U.S. Special Forces as advisors, detained seven suspected al Qaeda terrorists in Bulayj on July 22. One of the alleged operatives is suspected of being a key weapons supplier, arming foreign fighters and other operatives who conduct terrorist attacks for al Qaeda in Iraq. In addition to the captured terrorists, 77 AK-47 assault rifles were confiscated during the operation.
(Compiled from Multinational Corps Iraq news releases.)
July 24, 2007 - Iraqi and coalition forces detained numerous suspected terrorists and killed an al Qaeda in Iraq cell leader in operations over the last three days, military officials reported. Three synchronized raids west of Taji today targeted al Qaeda operatives associated with senior terrorist leaders and criminal activity. Coalition forces captured one individual suspected of attacking coalition forces and detained 15 others for their alleged links to hijackings and weapons facilitation.
Also today, during a raid northwest of Balad, coalition forces captured a foreign terrorist suspected of involvement in a suicide car-bomb attack in Samarra and detained three other suspected terrorists for their alleged ties to the foreign terrorist.
"We're continuing to hunt down those who terrorize the people of Iraq," said Army Maj. Marc Young, a Multinational Force Iraq spokesman. "Criminals and foreign terrorists have no place in the future of this country."
In operations yesterday, Iraqi security forces killed a senior member of an al Qaeda cell and detained seven suspected insurgents in a series of early-morning raids at a terrorist training camp.
With coalition forces present as advisors, Iraqi security forces cleared a series of buildings located on an abandoned Iraqi army base in the Hamrah region, northeast of Karmah. Iraqi security forces were engaged by an enemy shooter at one of their objectives. An assault team moved to positively identify and kill the shooter, a senior al Qaeda cell member. Various rifles, pictures and identification cards also were seized during the operation.
The abandoned base reportedly was being used as a training facility and safe house for active insurgents and foreign fighters. Several insurgent groups from Fallujah and other western Iraqi cities are suspected to have used the facility for small-arms training and other activities, U.S. officials said.
In other news, Iraqi soldiers, with U.S. Special Forces as advisors, detained seven suspected al Qaeda terrorists in Bulayj on July 22. One of the alleged operatives is suspected of being a key weapons supplier, arming foreign fighters and other operatives who conduct terrorist attacks for al Qaeda in Iraq. In addition to the captured terrorists, 77 AK-47 assault rifles were confiscated during the operation.
(Compiled from Multinational Corps Iraq news releases.)
Crocker: Iran's Actions, Not Words, Critical for Iraqi Security
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
July 24, 2007 - The success of today's talks between the United States, Iraq and Iran will be measured not by words, but through changing conditions on the ground in Iraq, U.S. Ambassador to Iraq Ryan C. Crocker said in Baghdad today. Iraqi Foreign Affairs Minister Hoshyar Zebari hosted the meeting, which included U.S. and Iranian officials, to discuss security in Iraq. The talks were the second for the group, which last met May 28 in the first direct talks between the United States and Iran in 27 years.
Speaking with Baghdad reporters following the second round of talks, Crocker expressed frustration that Iran continues to focus on process rather than results. "This discussion has to be measured in results, not in principles or promises," he said. "And thus far, the results on the ground are not encouraging."
Despite Iraq's stated policy of promoting a peaceful and stable Iraq, Crocker said, its actions aren't measuring up. In fact, evidence shows there's been "an escalation, not a de-escalation" in Iran's involvement in Iraq since the last trilateral meeting.
"As we made very clear in today's talks, over the roughly two months since our last meeting, we have actually seen militia-related activity that can be attributed to Iranian support go up and not down," he said. "And you all have seen in (Multinational Force Iraq) briefings the detail we have on that, the evidence that supports it."
Crocker said the U.S. delegation reiterated its concern that Iran is arming and training violent militia elements. He noted that statements by detainees and Iraqi munitions captured in Iraq also point directly to Tehran.
"There is no question in our minds that this support is going on," he said. "It is not something we need to prove in a court of law."
While it's important that the United States and Iran agree in principle to support a democratic, stable Iraq, Crocker said, these principles amount to little if they're not acted on. "The test and the challenge is applying those principles on the ground," he said.
The three delegations agreed that al Qaeda poses a threat to all three countries and discussed forming a security subcommittee to address it, Crocker said.
He said he made it clear that today's meeting would focus only on Iraqi security. "This is not a forum to address other issues in the Iranian-U.S. relationship," he said.
American Forces Press Service
July 24, 2007 - The success of today's talks between the United States, Iraq and Iran will be measured not by words, but through changing conditions on the ground in Iraq, U.S. Ambassador to Iraq Ryan C. Crocker said in Baghdad today. Iraqi Foreign Affairs Minister Hoshyar Zebari hosted the meeting, which included U.S. and Iranian officials, to discuss security in Iraq. The talks were the second for the group, which last met May 28 in the first direct talks between the United States and Iran in 27 years.
Speaking with Baghdad reporters following the second round of talks, Crocker expressed frustration that Iran continues to focus on process rather than results. "This discussion has to be measured in results, not in principles or promises," he said. "And thus far, the results on the ground are not encouraging."
Despite Iraq's stated policy of promoting a peaceful and stable Iraq, Crocker said, its actions aren't measuring up. In fact, evidence shows there's been "an escalation, not a de-escalation" in Iran's involvement in Iraq since the last trilateral meeting.
"As we made very clear in today's talks, over the roughly two months since our last meeting, we have actually seen militia-related activity that can be attributed to Iranian support go up and not down," he said. "And you all have seen in (Multinational Force Iraq) briefings the detail we have on that, the evidence that supports it."
Crocker said the U.S. delegation reiterated its concern that Iran is arming and training violent militia elements. He noted that statements by detainees and Iraqi munitions captured in Iraq also point directly to Tehran.
"There is no question in our minds that this support is going on," he said. "It is not something we need to prove in a court of law."
While it's important that the United States and Iran agree in principle to support a democratic, stable Iraq, Crocker said, these principles amount to little if they're not acted on. "The test and the challenge is applying those principles on the ground," he said.
The three delegations agreed that al Qaeda poses a threat to all three countries and discussed forming a security subcommittee to address it, Crocker said.
He said he made it clear that today's meeting would focus only on Iraqi security. "This is not a forum to address other issues in the Iranian-U.S. relationship," he said.
Bush Urges Time, Resources for Troops in Iraq
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
July 24, 2007 - President Bush today praised the progress U.S. servicemembers are helping to make in Iraq and urged support and patience as they continue hunting down terrorists intent on creating a safe haven there. "For the security of our citizens and the peace of the world, we must give General (David H.) Petraeus, (commander of Multinational Force Iraq) and his troops the time and resources they need, so they can defeat al Qaeda in Iraq," Bush said during an address at Charleston Air Force Base, S.C.
Bush paid tribute to the U.S. servicemembers he said are fighting terrorists overseas so the United States won't have to face them at home. The fight hasn't been easy or without sacrifice, he acknowledged. It's a "tough fight," he said, but one that's "noble and necessary for our peace."
The president noted the contributions airmen at Charleston Air Force Base, "Team Charleston" and their loved ones are making toward this effort.
During the liberation of Afghanistan, air crews from Team Charleston flew hundreds of sorties to transport troops and deliver supplies and help the liberation of 25 million people, he said. The Charleston airmen are providing similar support in Iraq, too, as C-17 Globemaster III aircraft carry tons of vital supplies every day to troops on the front lines.
"Your efforts are saving lives, and you're bringing security to this country," Bush said. "Every member of Team Charleston can take pride in a great record of accomplishment. America is grateful for your courage in the cause of freedom, and your courage is needed."
Bush recognized the sacrifices military families are making as well. "Our military families endure the separations. They worry about their loved ones. They pray for safe return," he said. "By carrying out these burdens, our military families are serving the United States of America, and this country is grateful to America's military families."
Together, servicemembers, their families and the American people are standing strong against terrorism because giving in to terrorists is no option, the president said. "However difficult the fight is in Iraq, we must win it," he said. "And we can win it."
Bush cited progress in Anbar province, al Qaeda's former base in Iraq that was written off by many as lost. "Since then, U.S. and Iraqi forces have teamed with Sunni sheiks who have turned against al Qaeda," he said. "Hundreds have been killed or captured. Terrorists have been driven from most of the population centers."
U.S. troops are working to replicate that success in other parts of Iraq. "Our brave men and women are taking risks and ... showing courage," Bush said. "And we're making progress."
The president urged patience as that progress continues and told airmen represented at Charleston that he's counting on them to make it happen. "Every man and woman who serves at this base and around the world is playing a vital role in this war on terror," he said. "With your selfless spirit and devotion to duty, we will confront this mortal threat to our country -- and we're going to prevail."
American Forces Press Service
July 24, 2007 - President Bush today praised the progress U.S. servicemembers are helping to make in Iraq and urged support and patience as they continue hunting down terrorists intent on creating a safe haven there. "For the security of our citizens and the peace of the world, we must give General (David H.) Petraeus, (commander of Multinational Force Iraq) and his troops the time and resources they need, so they can defeat al Qaeda in Iraq," Bush said during an address at Charleston Air Force Base, S.C.
Bush paid tribute to the U.S. servicemembers he said are fighting terrorists overseas so the United States won't have to face them at home. The fight hasn't been easy or without sacrifice, he acknowledged. It's a "tough fight," he said, but one that's "noble and necessary for our peace."
The president noted the contributions airmen at Charleston Air Force Base, "Team Charleston" and their loved ones are making toward this effort.
During the liberation of Afghanistan, air crews from Team Charleston flew hundreds of sorties to transport troops and deliver supplies and help the liberation of 25 million people, he said. The Charleston airmen are providing similar support in Iraq, too, as C-17 Globemaster III aircraft carry tons of vital supplies every day to troops on the front lines.
"Your efforts are saving lives, and you're bringing security to this country," Bush said. "Every member of Team Charleston can take pride in a great record of accomplishment. America is grateful for your courage in the cause of freedom, and your courage is needed."
Bush recognized the sacrifices military families are making as well. "Our military families endure the separations. They worry about their loved ones. They pray for safe return," he said. "By carrying out these burdens, our military families are serving the United States of America, and this country is grateful to America's military families."
Together, servicemembers, their families and the American people are standing strong against terrorism because giving in to terrorists is no option, the president said. "However difficult the fight is in Iraq, we must win it," he said. "And we can win it."
Bush cited progress in Anbar province, al Qaeda's former base in Iraq that was written off by many as lost. "Since then, U.S. and Iraqi forces have teamed with Sunni sheiks who have turned against al Qaeda," he said. "Hundreds have been killed or captured. Terrorists have been driven from most of the population centers."
U.S. troops are working to replicate that success in other parts of Iraq. "Our brave men and women are taking risks and ... showing courage," Bush said. "And we're making progress."
The president urged patience as that progress continues and told airmen represented at Charleston that he's counting on them to make it happen. "Every man and woman who serves at this base and around the world is playing a vital role in this war on terror," he said. "With your selfless spirit and devotion to duty, we will confront this mortal threat to our country -- and we're going to prevail."
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt. Shawn G. Adams, 21, of Dixon, Calif., died July 22, in Owaset, Iraq, of wounds suffered from an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 509th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 25th Infantry Division, Fort Richardson, Alaska.
For more information related to this release the media may contact the U.S. Army Alaska public affairs office at (907) 384-1542.
Sgt. Shawn G. Adams, 21, of Dixon, Calif., died July 22, in Owaset, Iraq, of wounds suffered from an improvised explosive device. He was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 509th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 25th Infantry Division, Fort Richardson, Alaska.
For more information related to this release the media may contact the U.S. Army Alaska public affairs office at (907) 384-1542.
Marine Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Lance Cpl. Bobby L. Twitty, 20, of Bedias, Texas, died July 22 from a non-hostile vehicle accident in Al Anbar province, Iraq. He was assigned to Combat Logistics Battalion 6, Combat Logistics Regiment 2, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.
For more information in regard to this release the media can contact the II MEF public affairs office at (910) 451-3538.
Lance Cpl. Bobby L. Twitty, 20, of Bedias, Texas, died July 22 from a non-hostile vehicle accident in Al Anbar province, Iraq. He was assigned to Combat Logistics Battalion 6, Combat Logistics Regiment 2, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.
For more information in regard to this release the media can contact the II MEF public affairs office at (910) 451-3538.
Monday, July 23, 2007
General: Provincial Initiatives Outpace National Government in Iraq
By Tim Kilbride
Special to American Forces Press Service
July 23, 2007 - The slow pace of legislation and political compromise at Iraq's national level should not belie the potential for economic and political progress in the country's provinces, a coalition commander said. With security surge operations in and around Baghdad gradually clearing a path for business development and the growth of governance capacity, a window is open to transform progress in those areas into longer-term stability, Army Brig. Gen. Edward Cardon, deputy commander of Task Force Marne, said July 20.
"The importance of the economic and political progress in Iraq, if we do this right, generates a stability such that we won't need as much military power," Cardon explained.
Efforts toward that end frequently are eclipsed in the public's awareness by details of Iraq's security situation; however, movement on all fronts is inextricably linked, the general said.
In his area of responsibility -- Najaf, Karbala, Babil and Wasit provinces -- Cardon said his forces and representatives of the State Department-led provincial reconstruction teams are working to draft and implement 100-day plans. These plans, he explained, "provide a focus and some benchmarks to improve both security and local governance."
Toward those ends, he described himself as an enabler, forging relationships among Iraqi leaders to address common problems and solutions.
"What we really do is try and link the provincial government to the national government, the local government to the provincial government, working on plans for security and cooperation and coordination," Cardon explained. "That is the hard work of personal engagement."
Success at the local level is in relative contrast to the national government's progress, the general pointed out. "Right now I'm somewhat disappointed with the political progress, in that it hasn't been as rapid as the security progress we've made just over the last few weeks," he said.
"If you go back to the purpose of the surge, it was to get the security situation to a point where you could have political growth," Cardon continued. "I think we're doing that pretty well. But the political progress right now is moving much slower than expected, although it is moving, especially at the lower levels."
Contributing to stability in the provinces, he explained, is the expansion of tribal opposition to terrorist and insurgent presence, a phenomenon similar to what is occurring in Anbar province, Cardon said.
While the Iraqi army continues to grow in capabilities and effectiveness, the performance of the national and local police has been a "mixed bag" over the past two years, the general noted. Now though, Cardon said, shortcomings in the security forces are increasingly being filled by locally mustered vigilante groups, organized along tribal lines.
"Some of these areas that we're clearing out, we have cleared just to a point that we can hold," Cardon said. "And what's starting to fill the gap with the Iraqi security units are these concerned citizens that are ... tired of al Qaeda, of these extremist groups, and have ... (decided to) protect their own neighborhoods."
These groups are neither armed nor paid by coalition forces, Cardon clarified. "But we do acknowledge that they can secure their own areas, and in some areas that's having a real impact on the enemy," he said.
The success of Anbar has continued to spread across belts of southern Baghdad and is even starting to swing all the way around to the east side, Cardon said. "That's buying some time for some political development if we can get the political development to move a little bit quicker," he added.
At the provincial level, such development entails generation of program-management capabilities and movement away from a state-run economic mindset, Cardon explained.
Regarding the economy, stimulating enterprise growth and diversification is already a challenge, further complicated by a flood of Iranian imports into the areas south and east of Baghdad, the general said.
"The bigger problem now is the Iranian economic influence in Iraq, ... because there's no tariffs, and the borders basically are wide open," Cardon said. "They're importing ... low-cost goods into Iraq, which then compete against Iraqi business, and it's hard for Iraqi business to compete against mass production."
One avenue being pursued to boost the economy is the resumption of certain state-owned enterprises to push Iraqi-made niche products to in-country consumers and foreign markets, Cardon said. That task is being taken on by the Defense Department's Task Force for Business and Stabilization Operations, he said. Other expertise comes from the State Department's provincial reconstruction teams.
Despite progress, the sectarian radicalization of some areas is an obstacle to freedom of movement and prevents goods from getting to market, Cardon said. And while the number of "spectacular attacks" that exacerbate sectarianism has been reduced by the surge, they do still take place, he said.
Business and security issues will be discussed in an upcoming provincial governors' conference facilitated by his office, Cardon said. The appropriate ministers from Baghdad are expected to attend to hash out disconnects between the regional and national governments.
"One of the complaints of the governors is that they're disconnected from the national government," Cardon said. "So, you know, this is a great opportunity to ... develop government capacity by just getting them together."
(Tim Kilbride is a writer assigned to Task Force Marne Public Affairs.)
Special to American Forces Press Service
July 23, 2007 - The slow pace of legislation and political compromise at Iraq's national level should not belie the potential for economic and political progress in the country's provinces, a coalition commander said. With security surge operations in and around Baghdad gradually clearing a path for business development and the growth of governance capacity, a window is open to transform progress in those areas into longer-term stability, Army Brig. Gen. Edward Cardon, deputy commander of Task Force Marne, said July 20.
"The importance of the economic and political progress in Iraq, if we do this right, generates a stability such that we won't need as much military power," Cardon explained.
Efforts toward that end frequently are eclipsed in the public's awareness by details of Iraq's security situation; however, movement on all fronts is inextricably linked, the general said.
In his area of responsibility -- Najaf, Karbala, Babil and Wasit provinces -- Cardon said his forces and representatives of the State Department-led provincial reconstruction teams are working to draft and implement 100-day plans. These plans, he explained, "provide a focus and some benchmarks to improve both security and local governance."
Toward those ends, he described himself as an enabler, forging relationships among Iraqi leaders to address common problems and solutions.
"What we really do is try and link the provincial government to the national government, the local government to the provincial government, working on plans for security and cooperation and coordination," Cardon explained. "That is the hard work of personal engagement."
Success at the local level is in relative contrast to the national government's progress, the general pointed out. "Right now I'm somewhat disappointed with the political progress, in that it hasn't been as rapid as the security progress we've made just over the last few weeks," he said.
"If you go back to the purpose of the surge, it was to get the security situation to a point where you could have political growth," Cardon continued. "I think we're doing that pretty well. But the political progress right now is moving much slower than expected, although it is moving, especially at the lower levels."
Contributing to stability in the provinces, he explained, is the expansion of tribal opposition to terrorist and insurgent presence, a phenomenon similar to what is occurring in Anbar province, Cardon said.
While the Iraqi army continues to grow in capabilities and effectiveness, the performance of the national and local police has been a "mixed bag" over the past two years, the general noted. Now though, Cardon said, shortcomings in the security forces are increasingly being filled by locally mustered vigilante groups, organized along tribal lines.
"Some of these areas that we're clearing out, we have cleared just to a point that we can hold," Cardon said. "And what's starting to fill the gap with the Iraqi security units are these concerned citizens that are ... tired of al Qaeda, of these extremist groups, and have ... (decided to) protect their own neighborhoods."
These groups are neither armed nor paid by coalition forces, Cardon clarified. "But we do acknowledge that they can secure their own areas, and in some areas that's having a real impact on the enemy," he said.
The success of Anbar has continued to spread across belts of southern Baghdad and is even starting to swing all the way around to the east side, Cardon said. "That's buying some time for some political development if we can get the political development to move a little bit quicker," he added.
At the provincial level, such development entails generation of program-management capabilities and movement away from a state-run economic mindset, Cardon explained.
Regarding the economy, stimulating enterprise growth and diversification is already a challenge, further complicated by a flood of Iranian imports into the areas south and east of Baghdad, the general said.
"The bigger problem now is the Iranian economic influence in Iraq, ... because there's no tariffs, and the borders basically are wide open," Cardon said. "They're importing ... low-cost goods into Iraq, which then compete against Iraqi business, and it's hard for Iraqi business to compete against mass production."
One avenue being pursued to boost the economy is the resumption of certain state-owned enterprises to push Iraqi-made niche products to in-country consumers and foreign markets, Cardon said. That task is being taken on by the Defense Department's Task Force for Business and Stabilization Operations, he said. Other expertise comes from the State Department's provincial reconstruction teams.
Despite progress, the sectarian radicalization of some areas is an obstacle to freedom of movement and prevents goods from getting to market, Cardon said. And while the number of "spectacular attacks" that exacerbate sectarianism has been reduced by the surge, they do still take place, he said.
Business and security issues will be discussed in an upcoming provincial governors' conference facilitated by his office, Cardon said. The appropriate ministers from Baghdad are expected to attend to hash out disconnects between the regional and national governments.
"One of the complaints of the governors is that they're disconnected from the national government," Cardon said. "So, you know, this is a great opportunity to ... develop government capacity by just getting them together."
(Tim Kilbride is a writer assigned to Task Force Marne Public Affairs.)
Coalition Forces Continue to Close in on Terrorists Networks
American Forces Press Service
July 23, 2007 - Coalition forces captured 12 suspected terrorists during operations targeting al Qaeda and its logistics networks around Iraq today. Coalition raids of safe houses in Mosul, Yusafiyah, Tarmiyah and south of Baghdad resulted in the capture of individuals suspected of facilitating the movement of foreign terrorists into and around Iraq for al Qaeda operations.
"Foreign terrorists who come to Iraq to support al Qaeda will find no safe haven to operate from," said Army Maj. Marc Young, a Multinational Force Iraq spokesman. "We will not tolerate terrorists' indiscriminate attacks against innocent Iraqis."
In operations yesterday, U.S. Special Forces advised elements of 2nd Iraqi Army Division and 3rd Iraqi Army Brigade in separate missions resulting in the detention of key operatives near Taji.
In one mission, Iraqi troops detained a high-level financier of al Qaeda-affiliated Islamic army of Iraq. The individual is alleged to be responsible for financing numerous attacks against innocent Iraqi and coalition forces over the past two years. Iraqi forces seized $20,000 worth of Iraqi currency, documents and computer equipment during the operation.
In the other mission, the troops detained seven suspected al Qaeda terrorists. One is allegedly a key weapons supplier who has armed foreign fighters and other terrorist operatives in Iraq. Forces confiscated 77 assault rifles during the mission. "This successful mission is another demonstration of the Iraqi security forces and national government's resolve to stopping violent criminal elements and ensuring the safety of their people," a senior coalition advisor said.
Also yesterday, Multinational Division Baghdad troops in the western part of the city found a factory in which explosively formed penetrators, the most deadly form of roadside bomb, were being made. Roughly 300 pounds of homemade explosives and parts were found, in addition to a disassembled anti-tank mine, two rocket-propelled-grenade sights, 14 copper plates and two video cameras.
In other operations over the past few days:
-- First Calvary Division soldiers freed three Iraqi civilians and detained their four kidnappers in a house south of Samarra on July 21.
-- Iraq security forces and U.S. Special Forces detained five individuals suspected of conducting terrorist activities in Mosul during an early-morning operation July 21. Iraqi forces seized five assault rifles, 14 weapons magazines, one chest rig, a bayonet, four cell phones, two soldering irons, numerous electronic components, and three automobiles.
-- A precision air strike destroyed a tanker truck loaded with explosives during Operation Marne Avalanche northeast of Haswah on July 20. An F-16 fighter jet dropped two 500-pound bombs on the truck and destroyed it.
-- Coalition forces killed nine terrorists, detained eight suspected terrorists and uncovered weapons caches during an operation near Muqdadiyah on July 20-21. The ground forces discovered a terrorist safe house hiding a weapons cache of rifles, ammunition, a rocket-propelled-grenade launcher, mortars, assault vests and camouflage uniforms.
"We're targeting al Qaeda members and leaders no matter where they hide," Young said. "These terrorists operate with a system of values totally inconsistent with those of the Iraqi people."
(Compiled from Multinational Corps Iraq and Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force Arabian Peninsula news releases.)
July 23, 2007 - Coalition forces captured 12 suspected terrorists during operations targeting al Qaeda and its logistics networks around Iraq today. Coalition raids of safe houses in Mosul, Yusafiyah, Tarmiyah and south of Baghdad resulted in the capture of individuals suspected of facilitating the movement of foreign terrorists into and around Iraq for al Qaeda operations.
"Foreign terrorists who come to Iraq to support al Qaeda will find no safe haven to operate from," said Army Maj. Marc Young, a Multinational Force Iraq spokesman. "We will not tolerate terrorists' indiscriminate attacks against innocent Iraqis."
In operations yesterday, U.S. Special Forces advised elements of 2nd Iraqi Army Division and 3rd Iraqi Army Brigade in separate missions resulting in the detention of key operatives near Taji.
In one mission, Iraqi troops detained a high-level financier of al Qaeda-affiliated Islamic army of Iraq. The individual is alleged to be responsible for financing numerous attacks against innocent Iraqi and coalition forces over the past two years. Iraqi forces seized $20,000 worth of Iraqi currency, documents and computer equipment during the operation.
In the other mission, the troops detained seven suspected al Qaeda terrorists. One is allegedly a key weapons supplier who has armed foreign fighters and other terrorist operatives in Iraq. Forces confiscated 77 assault rifles during the mission. "This successful mission is another demonstration of the Iraqi security forces and national government's resolve to stopping violent criminal elements and ensuring the safety of their people," a senior coalition advisor said.
Also yesterday, Multinational Division Baghdad troops in the western part of the city found a factory in which explosively formed penetrators, the most deadly form of roadside bomb, were being made. Roughly 300 pounds of homemade explosives and parts were found, in addition to a disassembled anti-tank mine, two rocket-propelled-grenade sights, 14 copper plates and two video cameras.
In other operations over the past few days:
-- First Calvary Division soldiers freed three Iraqi civilians and detained their four kidnappers in a house south of Samarra on July 21.
-- Iraq security forces and U.S. Special Forces detained five individuals suspected of conducting terrorist activities in Mosul during an early-morning operation July 21. Iraqi forces seized five assault rifles, 14 weapons magazines, one chest rig, a bayonet, four cell phones, two soldering irons, numerous electronic components, and three automobiles.
-- A precision air strike destroyed a tanker truck loaded with explosives during Operation Marne Avalanche northeast of Haswah on July 20. An F-16 fighter jet dropped two 500-pound bombs on the truck and destroyed it.
-- Coalition forces killed nine terrorists, detained eight suspected terrorists and uncovered weapons caches during an operation near Muqdadiyah on July 20-21. The ground forces discovered a terrorist safe house hiding a weapons cache of rifles, ammunition, a rocket-propelled-grenade launcher, mortars, assault vests and camouflage uniforms.
"We're targeting al Qaeda members and leaders no matter where they hide," Young said. "These terrorists operate with a system of values totally inconsistent with those of the Iraqi people."
(Compiled from Multinational Corps Iraq and Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force Arabian Peninsula news releases.)
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