Petraeus: Upcoming Troop Reduction Plans 'On Track'

By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service

Jan. 27, 2008 - Plans to withdraw four Army brigade combat teams and two Marine battalions by July are "on track" as the military seeks to draw down the number of troops in Iraq as quickly as ground conditions allow, the top U.S. commander in Iraq said today. Appearing today on CNN's "Late Edition with Wolf Blitzer," Army Gen. David H. Petraeus said the scheduled withdrawal will reduce the number of troops at the height of the surge by one quarter, or roughly 42,500. Further reductions after July will be based on the state of Iraq's security, he added.

"The guidance that (Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates) in fact has given me -- and the president and my chain of command, what all of them have said -- is that reductions after July should be conditions-based," he said.

The general said after the upcoming drawdown, Defense Department and military officials will need time to "let things settle a bit" before making further reduction assessments. Their focus, he said, will be on removing forces expeditiously, but without undercutting progress made during the troop surge that launched this time last year.

Petraeus, commander of Multinational Force Iraq, said drawdowns aim to relieve strains on servicemembers, many of whom have engaged in multiple and extended deployments to support U.S. operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Force level reductions also would save money and cut back the flow of resources, he said.

The Army strives to provide soldiers the highest possible amount of "dwell time" -- the period at home stations between deployments -- and reduce deployments from 15 months to 12, the general added.

"But we want to do it, again, in a way that will allow these gains to be maintained. We don't want to jeopardize what we have fought so hard for," he said. "The key is to make the timing of that right and to figure out when that will make sense."

Petraeus and U.S. Ambassador to Iraq Ryan C. Crocker are expected in coming months to give Congress a follow-up to the military and diplomatic progress update they delivered in September.

Asked today about Iraqi security forces' capability, Petraeus said the roughly 550,000-strong force is assuming an increasingly larger role in maintaining the country's security. The overall forces -- composed of some 343,000 police members, 208,000 defense ministry soldiers and 4,000 special operations forces -- suffer nearly three times the number of U.S military casualties, which Petraeus said indicated the Iraqis' devotion to stability in their country.

Earlier this month, more than 2 million religious pilgrims gathered in Iraq to celebrate the Islamic holiday Ashura. In a ceremony that has been marked in recent years by "terrible bloodshed," the Jan. 18 holiday occurred with minimal violence, the general said.

"The Iraqi security forces planned this year the security for that, ... and in fact, in Najaf, Karbala, and Baghdad the celebrations went off virtually without incident," he said, conceding that violence occurred in Basra and Nasiriya. "But Iraqi security forces responded in each of those cases and dealt with the situation."

Officials have stated that reductions of U.S. forces in Iraq depend largely on an Iraqi security force that is capable of tamping down violence in the country. Petraeus today noted that half of Iraq's 18 provinces currently are under provincial control, but pointed out that Iraq's security institutions face challenges in breeding military leaders and in equipping and maintaining the current forces.

"(Leadership) is the area that is probably the most difficult, because you just can't find captains, colonels, and generals out there in the numbers that they need by just going back to those who are willing to serve from the old army -- not all of whom, perhaps, have the qualities that one would want in the leadership of the new Iraq army anyway," Petraeus said.

"It is easy, relatively speaking, to develop infantry battalions; it is very difficult to develop the institutional underpinnings that support those forces, maintain their vehicles, get them paid on time, feed them, and all of the rest of that," he added.

Petraeus said Iraqi security forces are handling the challenges. The handover of responsibility from U.S. to Iraqi forces is occurring not like a light switch, he said, but more like a rheostat, referring to the type of electrical resistor that adjusts to allow the flow of a current to grow in increments.

The Multinational Force Iraq commander said he does not foresee the U.S. maintaining a permanent military presence in Iraq, but rather a smaller number of U.S. troops remaining in Iraq "for some period of years." Citing key pieces of legislation passed by the Iraqi parliament recently, Petraeus said in the future he envisions troops performing a mission that places greater emphasis on empowering Iraq's "reconcilables," those who embrace cooperation over divisiveness.

"I think our soldiers were prepared intellectually for the concept that there were reconcilables whom we needed to reach out to and try to become part of the solution over time, rather than part of the problem," he said. "And you try to minimize the number of irreconcilables, because at the end of the day, they have to be killed, captured, or run out of the country."

Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.

Sgt. 1st Class Matthew Ryan Kahler, 29, of Granite Falls, Minn., died Jan. 26 in FOB Fenty, Afghanistan, of injuries sustained from small arms fire in Waygul, Afghanistan. Possible friendly fire. Afghan guard (ally) possibly mistook the soldier as an enemy combatant and engaged with small arms fire. Incident is under investigation.

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, the media may contact the U.S. Army, Europe public affairs office at 011-49-6221-57-5816/8694.

Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Sgt. Tracy Renee Birkman, 41, of New Castle, Va., died Jan. 25 in Owesat, Iraq, from non-combat related injuries. She was assigned to the 626th Brigade Support Battalion, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Fort Campbell, Ky.

For more information related to this release, the media may contact the Fort Campbell public affairs office at (270) 793-9966.

Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Pfc. Duncan Charles Crookston, 19, of Denver, Colo., died Jan. 25 in Brooke Army Medical Center, Fort Sam Houston, Texas, of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle during combat operations in Baghdad, Iraq. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kan.

For more information related to this release, the media may contact the Fort Riley public affairs office at (785) 239-3410.

Why We Serve: Army Improves Life for Soldier, Family

By Sgt. Sara Moore, USA
American Forces Press Service

Jan. 25, 2008 - Joining the Army more than four years ago helped Sgt. Dominic Garza achieve some of his personal goals and improve life for his new family. Before Garza joined the Army, he didn't have a high school diploma, was working two jobs, and he and his wife had just welcomed a new daughter into the world. He knew it was time for a change, he said, and all it took was a little convincing from his aunt, who had recently joined the Army.

"I figured it was time to do something quick and something that I know provides structure and gives me focus back into the key aspects of life," Garza said.

Garza is now touring the country as part of the Defense Department's "Why We Serve" outreach program. The program, now in its sixth iteration, takes servicemembers who have recently deployed to Iraq or Afghanistan and sends them to various community, business and veterans groups to tell their stories.

Garza's aunt helped convince him that the military didn't live up to many of its negative stereotypes, he said, and once he decided to join, he had new motivation for getting his high school diploma. He already had a General Educational Development credential, or GED, which would have allowed him to join the military, but he said he felt he needed to get his diploma. "It was just a personal goal of mine to get a high school diploma before I joined the Army," he said.

Garza got his diploma and joined the Army in 2003 as a motor transport/heavy wheeled-vehicle operator. Almost five years later and after two deployments, he said he couldn't have made a better decision.

"There's been a lot of ups and downs, but I look around me and I see my family is well taken care of, way better than if I would have kept those two jobs. They're living a lot better than that," Garza, who now has a son as well, said.

"Not only have I grown through the Army values and I'm comfortable with the atmosphere, I actually look forward to going to work and being mentors to all the soldiers that are younger than me," he continued. "I have no regrets at all. I also know that this is just the beginning for me. There's a lot more I have to learn, and there's a lot more things to see out there and a lot more experiences to be involved with."

Garza's most recent deployment was to Camp Anaconda, in Balad, Iraq. His unit's mission was to escort and provide security for logistics convoys transporting supplies between military bases. He and his fellow soldiers would sometimes spend up to 24 hours on the road, he said, so they developed strong ties with each other and learned a lot about the country.

Garza recalled an incident when he was driving a truck containing 7,500 gallons of fuel, and a truck driven by an Iraqi came straight toward him without slowing or moving to the side of the road. Right away, Garza perceived this truck as a threat, and was forced to try to slow down his truck and swerve to the side of the road to avoid a collision, he said.

Despite his best efforts, he wasn't able to stop fast enough. He hit a car in front of him, and the truck clipped his fuel tank, causing fuel to spill into the street. Luckily, the convoy he was in had a wrecker truck to contain the fuel spill and a security team to secure the area, he said.

"After that, I realized that we had our stuff together," Garza said. "We had people out there trained to the top of the line. We were pretty confident on the job that we were doing."

Later in his deployment, Garza volunteered to be a gunner for a .50-caliber machine gun, providing security for convoys. He said it was great to have a new experience, and he was able to learn a lot, especially when escorting Iraqi supply convoys.

"A lot of those guys, they had a lot of respect for us. They knew what we were out to do, which was to make sure they got from one place to another safely," he said.

Through the Why We Serve program, Garza said, he hopes to tell audiences about his experiences in the military and to convey to them that America's military members are glad to serve.

"Everybody that's in the military, they joined for a reason," he said. "They volunteered their services. Everybody has a personal little reason why they joined."

Garza said he plans on staying in the military and is aiming to become sergeant major of the Army one day. He knows his family is comfortable in the military lifestyle, he said, and he wants to make sure that continues.

"I see that my family's happy, so I'm not going to do anything to disturb that," he said. "I'm going to continue on doing what I have to do as a provider for my family."

Face of Defense: Soldier Cooks up Morale in Afghanistan

By Spc. Nathan W. Hutchison, USA
Special to American Forces Press Service

Jan. 25, 2008 - Soldiers on the front lines are used to meals, ready to eat -- high-energy, high-calorie packaged meals with little emphasis on taste. Army Spc. Dairo Orozco, of the 82nd Airborne Division's Company F, 2nd Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, is the cook for paratroopers here, and his skills bring an extra touch to the MREs and unitized group ration meals the soldiers eat.

"A (UGR) is just precooked stuff you put in boiling water for about 45 minutes to an hour, and presto," said Orozco, a 25-year-old Queens, N.Y., native. "You just set it and forget it."

Orozco, called "Roscoe" by the soldiers, arrived at this firebase in the south of Afghanistan's Ghazni province in November.

"I was selected to come out here to do the big Thanksgiving Day meal, because the brigade commander and command sergeant major were coming out," Orozco said. "I never got replaced, so I did the same for Christmas and just stuck around."

Even though it's not hard to please a platoon of paratroopers used to dining on MREs, Orozco has culinary arts in his blood. "My father and uncle are chefs," Orozco explained. "My father is the food production manager at Gate Gourmet, an airline catering company, and my uncle is an executive chef at Intercontinental Hotels."

While Orozco doesn't have the facilities and resources to create gourmet meals, the soldiers at Nawa appreciated his efforts during the holidays.

"Christmas dinner was great," said Army 1st Lt. Mordechai D. Sorkin, 3rd Platoon leader, Company B, 2nd Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment. "He's pretty creative; (he) makes do with minimal resources and makes some pretty good stuff."

With a UGR as the canvas for a culinary masterpiece, it's usually difficult for Orozco to constantly rise to the challenge, the Army cook said.

"Pizza-baked spaghetti is the No. 1 product right now, but not by choice," Orozco said. "One of the better UGR meals is the buffalo chicken and lemon chicken, but most of our food stock consists of pizza bake."

Orozco said pizza-bake spaghetti, a meal consisting of meat chunks, noodles and pizza sauce, tops the soldiers' list of worst entrees, but added that he tries to make the meals as enjoyable as possible.

"Roscoe puts a lot more effort into the food than just dropping it in the water, so we're not really eating the same thing every time," said Army Spc. Jeremy A. Clark, 4th Platoon, Company B, 2nd Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment. "He's done the best he can with what we have."

Luckily for the paratroopers in Nawa, Orozco has enough knowledge about the local food and spices to make a meal from scratch.

"Probably about once a week he goes out to get local food and cook it up," Clark said. "He's a real good cook, and I think it helps out a lot with the guys' morale."

Orozco said he originally joined the Army for culinary arts, but the service dropped that military occupational speciality and changed everyone in it to food operations specialists.

"The Army hasn't been exactly what I was expecting, but it has made me more mature," Orozco said. "I may not have learned much more about culinary arts than I already knew, but I know I'll make better decisions once I get out because of my training."

(Army Spc. Nathan W. Hutchison serves with 22nd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment.)

Anthropologist Helps Soldiers Understand Iraqis' Needs

By Sgt. James P. Hunter, USA
Special to American Forces Press Service

Jan. 25, 2008 - With many streets here cluttered with trash and just as many roads bent out of shape, Baghdad can convey an impression of poverty. But something as simple as the produce available here tells a different tale. An anthropologist is helping soldiers and leaders from the 101st Airborne Division's 2nd Brigade Combat Team better understand the needs and living conditions of Iraqi citizens in northwestern Baghdad.

Marcus Griffin is a 40-year-old college professor who is taking a one-year break from teaching to bring his knowledge and experience to the fight. Using anthropology and sociology methods, he tries to determine whether micro-grants coalition officials are providing to Iraqi shopkeepers are having any effect on communities.

Before being "thin" or "chiseled" became the rage in Western societies, the results of people's diet conveyed their relative economic standing. People with "thick" builds were perceived to be wealthy. That's the case in Iraq, Griffin said. Wealthier Iraqis eat rice, lamb and fish. Poorer people eat bread, eggs and beans. But all Iraqis have one thing in common: their daily intake of cucumbers and tomatoes. The difference here is the quality of these products.

"These are quick indicators of market infrastructure," Griffin said.

Economic growth can easily be measured by the quality of produce in Baghdad's inner-city markets, he said.

Griffin often looks at the quality of produce and fish available in the local markets and where the merchants are getting their tomatoes to help him assess the growing economy. The better the quality, he said, the more the economy is growing.

"His expertise in analyzing the type of food being sold in the markets has been useful," said Shreveport, La. native Capt. Thomas H. Melton, commander of Troop A, 1st Squadron, 75th Cavalry Regiment. "He was able to explain the markets in my (area of operations) are receiving poor quality fruits and vegetables, indicating the area is fairly poor and malnourished."

Recently, Griffin toured the markets in southern Ghazaliyah with soldiers from Troop A, 1-75th Cavalry Regiment. There are four markets in southern Ghazaliyah: 8th Street, Nafla, Afran and Zawia. Melton said all four have shown substantial growth since he arrived in early December.

"With the exception of Zawia, the markets are all traditional open-air markets with bakeries, butcher shops, and fruit and vegetable stands," he said. "These markets cater to the residents of Ghazaliyah from within the (neighborhoods). Zawia market is more like a Western-style strip mall, catering to traffic on a main highway."

Heavy fighting in the area over the past year damaged much of the market, but with improved security, the economy is seeing much growth.

"Store owners are returning every day, but this market is very much in a rebuilding phase," Melton said. "The other markets are each seeing expansion, specifically Nafla and Afran. The presence of new stores, including restaurants, indicates that the economy is improving and the people feel secure."

Griffin said he wanted to see the economic boost and help identify the needs of these Iraqis to help the economy grow even more. "A bakery can change a neighborhood with just the basic necessity of bread," he said. "It can cause change, especially to the economy."

And that is where Griffin started his day: at the local bakery, talking with some of its workers.

Melton said Griffin has taken special interest in this bakery and "will help us facilitate a micro-grant approval for this business in order to study the effects that the micro-grant process has on the community."

The smell of freshly baked bread straight out of the kiln filled the afternoon air as they approached the bakery. Three men worked inside under no lighting except for the glow of the fire baking the bread. The bakery sells nearly 10 pieces at a time, at a cost of 1,250 Iraqi dinars. But keeping the business running is a problem. Having the money to purchase flour and fuel can be quite difficult.

A micro-grant is just what the bakers need to boost their business and the community as a whole, Melton said.

Griffin toured much of the area that day, spending time with an Iraqi family. They sipped on chai tea, ate lamb patties and discussed many of the area's needs, which mostly have to do with the availability of electricity. Lately, the family has been getting only a half hour of electricity a day. Griffin noted all the difficulties they are facing, hoping to fully understand their needs and what it would take to satisfy their desires.

"The biggest needs of the Iraqi people are the improvement of essential services," Melton said. "The residents average between one and two hours of electricity per day. The lack of electricity forces them to spend much of their income on black-market fuel to run generators. Additionally, it prevents the sewage pump stations from working, which contributes to the bad standing-water problems in the streets."

Griffin also stopped at a fruit stand during his visit, noticing that it had coconut for sale -- a rarity, to his knowledge, in Iraq, he said. Having the ability to bring in an exotic, luxurious food, he said, is a sign of economic growth.

"As we move toward tactical overwatch, we need to see visual indicators quickly of how the community and economy is doing -- see the growth within," Griffin said. "It keeps a pulse on the population."

(Army Sgt. James P. Hunter serves in public affairs with the 101st Airborne Division's 2nd Brigade Combat Team.)

Coalition Troops in Iraq Capture 12 Suspected Terrorists

American Forces Press Service

Jan. 25, 2008 - Coalition troops in Iraq captured seven suspected terrorists during operations today in Baghdad and Beiji, military officials said. In Baghdad, coalition forces captured a wanted individual allegedly involved in the facilitation of weapons, improvised-explosive-device materials, vehicles, and suicide bombers for use in al Qaeda in Iraq attacks. Reports indicate the suspect also is linked to foreign terrorist-facilitation networks, including several terrorists currently operating outside of Iraq.

In Beiji, coalition forces captured two wanted individuals and four additional suspects. One of the wanted individuals reportedly is a leader of an al Qaeda-affiliated media and propaganda network. The other wanted individual was captured at a follow-on location and is believed to be an al Qaeda sniper-cell leader. Both wanted individuals are linked to numerous terrorist leaders in the region, including the senior leader of the Beiji network.

During another anti-insurgent operation in the Beiji area, two suspected terrorists were detained while coalition forces targeted an alleged al Qaeda in Iraq member associated with terrorist media and propaganda operations.

Also today, coalition forces detained three suspected terrorists during an operation in Mosul.

Yesterday, northeast of Samarra near the Hamrin Mountains, coalition forces targeted a suspected al Qaeda in Iraq associate who allegedly serves as an interrogator at a terrorist prison and training camp in the region. Reports indicate the individual facilitates weapons purchases and fighter movements in the area.

Intelligence reports led coalition forces to a location where the targeted individual was believed to be operating and they engaged, killing one armed terrorist and destroying a vehicle.

Also yesterday, coalition forces captured five suspected insurgents near Baghdad. One detainee is believed to be an al Qaeda in Iraq cell leader. Reports indicate the suspected terrorist was responsible for an Oct. 30 car-bomb attack that targeted a coalition forces patrol. The detainee also is linked to trafficking weapons throughout the southern Baghdad region and reportedly was planning an attack in the capital city area. Four other suspected terrorists also were captured during the operation. Coalition forces also captured two wanted individuals yesterday in Mosul.

"We will continue to pursue al Qaeda in Iraq and other extremists wherever they take sanctuary," said Army Maj. Winfield Danielson, Multinational Force Iraq spokesman. "Their indiscriminate attacks and oppressive practices will not be tolerated, and we stand committed with Iraqi security forces to end their campaign of terror."

In Jan. 21 Iraq operations:

-- Coalition troops and concerned local citizens discovered and destroyed 30 improvised explosive devices and some weapons caches during operations conducted south and southeast of Baghdad. Among the IEDs found, 16 were pressure-plate activated, seven were command-wire activated, one was an explosively formed projectile, or EFP, and one consisted of various explosives. Eleven weapons caches were found. One cache contained 20 IEDs, plus 83 57 mm rounds and 70 60 mm rounds. Additional caches contained various munitions ranging from 57 mm rounds to 125 mm artillery rounds as well as IED-making materials.

-- An Iraqi special weapons and tactics team from Haditha captured four suspected terrorists in Barwanah during the unit's first solo operation. The Iraqi SWAT team had participated in four other operations accompanied by U.S. special operations troops as advisors.

In other Iraq news, Iraqi and U.S. soldiers announced they'd cleared a key travel route between Baghdad and Baqouba of IEDs during operations this month as part of Operation Phantom Phoenix. The area of the road between Khan Bani Saad and Baqouba had been so heavily covered in IEDs that vehicles had to take other routes to travel between Baghdad and Baqouba, officials said.

"This was a hugely successful brigade-level operation planned and led by the Iraqi army," said Army Lt. Col. Marshall Dougherty, a U.S. commander who participated in the operation. "The (Iraqi) commander laid out his plan and asked us to provide assets to support his effort such as helicopters, close-air support and artillery."

Coalition and Iraqi forces also killed an estimated 41 al Qaeda in Iraq operatives. In addition, Iraqi and U.S. troops found and cleared 12 booby-trapped houses and 11 car bombs, found six weapons caches, and detained nine suspected al Qaeda operatives.

On Jan. 20, U.S. soldiers liberated two local Iraqis who had been kidnapped and tortured for 11 days. Ongoing operations in the area include clearing roadside bombs, repair of the highway and the standing up of concerned local citizens' groups.

"This is another example of the Iraqi army increasing their capacity and taking the lead in making their country safer," Dougherty said.

(Compiled from Multinational Force Iraq and Multinational Corps Iraq news releases.)

Local Security Gains Press National Action, General Says

By Seaman William Selby, USN
Special to American Forces Press Service

Jan. 25, 2008 - As Iraqis continue to organize at the local level to help with security, they are creating pressure on Iraq's national leaders to build on momentum, a top military official said yesterday. Army Brig. Gen. Edward Cardon, deputy commander for support for Multinational Division Center and Task Force Marne, told online journalists and "bloggers" in a conference call that Iraqis seem to be more and more organized at the local level, with concerned local citizens working alongside Iraqi and coalition forces to make and keep their neighborhoods safe.

"I think that organization is starting to put a lot of pressure from the bottom up on the national government," he said.

Coalition and Iraqi security forces, along with local citizens, have made significant security improvements in the southern belts of Baghdad, Cardon said.

"I think the difference now is (that) before, we were reacting to al Qaeda, now they react to us," he said.

Cardon, who is in the 10th month of his 15-month tour, said that rather than frightening local citizens into inaction, attacks by al Qaeda insurgents are now having the opposite effect.

"When this happens, the resolve of the citizens actually goes up, and then we have more of an effort by these locals to join and purge their area of al Qaeda," he said.

With the local and national security forces making strides, the general said, coalition forces can take a step back and monitor them.

In recent attacks, the Iraqi army and police have been able to handle security situations on their own, he said, as coalition forces maintained liaison with them and watched very carefully.

"I think that the Iraqi government's finally starting to step up and provide some help," Cardon said. "They're much more deliberate in the way they search people, in the way they profile, and in the way they handle the traffic."

Now, the coalition can concentrate on integrating the concerned local citizens into the either the Iraqi security forces or other programs, the general said. Of the 40,500 concerned citizens now in that security program, 20 percent will end up in the Iraqi security forces, and the hope is for the rest to join educational, vocational and other programs they are creating on their own using micro-grants, Cardon told the journalists.

"I think that's very, very encouraging," he said.

(Navy Seaman William Selby works for the New Media branch of American Forces Information Service.)

Army Casualty

The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom.

Staff Sgt. Robert J. Miller, 24, of Iowa City, Iowa, died Jan. 25 in Barikowt, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when he encountered small arms fire while conducting combat operations. He was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne), Fort Bragg, N.C.

For more information media may contact the U.S. Army Special Operations Command public affairs office at (910) 432-6005.

CBR Weapons and WMD Terrorism News- January 25, 2008

Man indicted for E[ast] Greenwich [Township, New Jersey] anthrax threat
“A truck driver accused of mailing the East Greenwich Township municipal building a package of white powder labeled ‘anthrax’ has been indicted by a Gloucester County grand jury. Police say Timothy W. Tobiason, 51, in an attempt to get revenge against the township, mailed a box of white powder and a note identifying it as anthrax to the municipal building on Aug. 7. […] It wasn't anthrax. He was indicted by a Gloucester County grand jury on charges of threatening violence.” (nj.com, 25Jan08, Gloucester County Times) http://www.nj.com/news/gloucester/local/index.ssf?/base/news-8/1201245018130040.xml&coll=8

Key Anthrax Virulence Factor Discovered
“Researchers have discovered how the anthrax bacterium protects itself from the immune system's biochemical assault. The results reveal not only a novel aspect of anthrax virulence, they also suggest a new target, known as bacterial nitric oxide synthase (bNOS), for fighting the pathogen, said study leader Evgeny Nudler, a professor of biochemistry at the New York University School of Medicine. ‘That is the obvious continuation of our work,’ said Nudler, ‘to find small molecule inhibitors of bacterial nitric oxide synthase that would not touch its human counterpart. If we are lucky, we will find this inhibitor that would potentially work as an antibiotic.’" (Washington Post; 24Jan08; Jeffrey Perkel, HealthDay News) http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/01/24/AR2008012402484.html

Food safety’s fiscal influence studied
“After a few spinach and green onion recalls, food safety of produce coming from outside the United States is top of mind – and so is the cost of such recalls. Add in evidence that agricultural bioterrorism is a real threat, and U.S. officials could be facing a fiscal disaster. Five Morrison School of Management and Agribusiness faculty members [at Arizona State University Polytechnic Campus] recently received funding of more than $262,800 from the National Center for Food Protection and Defense (NCFPD) to study the potential monetary losses that could arise in the event of an agro-terrorism attack or contamination of imported produce coming through the border between Arizona and Nogales, Mexico, one of the busiest ports at the Southwest border. […] An intended outcome of the project is to provide better data with which the NCFPD can create food safety policies that help diminish incidents of contamination of food as it travels from grower to produce, importer and retailer.” (Arizona State University, 24Jan08, Stephanie Patterson) http://asunews.asu.edu/20080124_foodsafety

Officials doubt lab a danger
“Opponents of a proposed bioresearch lab in Athens are using scare tactics to fight it, and they're not working, Athens-Clarke [Georgia] Mayor Heidi Davison said Wednesday. Davison supports the National Bio- and Agro-defense Facility, but has said she could be persuaded to change her mind. A speech Tuesday by Edward Hammond, a critic of biodefense programs, did nothing to sway her, she said. ‘I've heard a lot of misinformation and hyperbole, but I haven't heard any facts,’ she said.” (Online Athens, 24Jan08, Blake Aued) http://www.onlineathens.com/stories/012408/news_20080124042.shtml

Malaysia invests in biodefence R[esearch &D[evelopment]
“In view of the worldwide bio-terrorism threat, Malaysia is arming itself with bio-defence countermeasures. Director-general of health Tan Sri Dr Ismail Merican said the country would invest in biodefence research and development, and the manufacturing and commercialisation of products such as halal vaccines. The biodefence products and services would not only be used locally but also supplied to some member countries of the Organisation of the Islamic Conference (OIC) and other countries within Asia. To start the ball rolling, Emergent BioSolutions Inc and Ninebio […] (9Bio) yesterday announced the formation of a joint venture which would focus on creating critical biologics infrastructure and supplying biodefence countermeasures, including an anthrax vaccine known as BioThrax (Anthrax Vaccine Adsorbed), and other medical medical and complementary products and services.” (New Straits Times, 25Jan08, Annie Freeda Cruez) http://www.nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Friday/National/20080125111658/Article/index_html

Scientists manufacture bacteria DNA
“Taking a significant step toward the creation of synthetic forms of life, researchers reported Thursday that they had manufactured the entire genome of a bacterium by stitching together its chemical components. The feat marks the first time that anyone has made such a large strand of hereditary material from off-the-shelf chemical ingredients. Previous efforts had yielded DNA strands less than one-twentieth the size, and those pieces lacked many of the key biological programs that tell a cell how to stay alive. On the basis of earlier experiments, the researchers say the synthetic DNA would ‘boot up’ inside a cell, like a downloaded operating system can awaken a computer -- a potentially historic event that would amount to creation of the first truly artificial life-form. Team members emphasized that they have not done that yet but expressed confidence that they would do so before the end of the year. […] Critics, however, [worry] that without better oversight of the fledgling field, synthetic biology is more likely to lead to the creation of potent biological weapons and runaway microbes that could wreak environmental havoc.” (The Detroit News, 25Jan08) http://www.detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080125/LIFESTYLE03/801250374/1040

Chemical weapons destruction at Anniston [Chemical Agent Depot] ahead of schedule
“With chemical weapons destruction at the Anniston Chemical Agent Disposal [in Alabama] running ahead of schedule, a company official said safety procedures haven't been ignored. The work is more than 50 days ahead of schedule and the company handling the project could collect $100 million or more in incentive pay for early completion, […].” (al.com, 24Jan08, AP) http://www.al.com/newsflash/regional/index.ssf?/base/news-33/120119715870190.xml&storylist=alabamanews

Army Corps to Resume Chemical Munitions Dig
“The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers plans Thursday to resume digging in Northwest Washington [D.C.] in search of buried chemical weapons. The weapons were left during World War I testing at American University.”
(WJLA.com, 24Jan08)
http://www.wjla.com/news/stories/0108/490524.html

Chemical warfare detection spray released
“ICx Technologies, based in Virginia, announced the launch of a new enzyme-based chemical agent detection spray that pinpoints chemical warfare threats. ICx is a developer of chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and explosive threats detection technologies. The company announced the release of ICx Agentase Disclosure Spray that changes color when sprayed on surfaces contaminated with nerve agents.” (UPI, 25Jan08) http://www.upi.com/International_Security/Industry/Briefing/2008/01/25/chemical_warfare_detection_spray_released/7204/

Grant keeps O'Hara [Township, Pennsylvania] ready to sniff out trouble
“O'Hara emergency volunteers soon will be able to detect dangers such as chemical warfare agents, radiation and toxic industrial gases. For the second consecutive year, the township will receive assistance from the federal government to help respond to potential disasters. This year, it's in the form of a $35,000 Chemical Detection Kit. […] O'Hara is one of only 201 municipalities across the country to receive the equipment. In Pennsylvania, there were 11 detection kits doled out.” (Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, 24Jan08, Tawnya Panizzi) http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/news/cityregion/s_548908.html

Central African Republic Designates OPCW [Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons] National Authority
“In compliance with its obligations under the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), the Central African Republic has informed the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) that it has designated the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as its National Authority. A CWC National Authority is crucial in ensuring the effective implementation of the CWC within each State Party’s national jurisdiction.” (Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, 25Jan08) http://www.opcw.org/pressreleases/2008/PR02_2008.html

[Paul] Wolfowitz appointed chairman of arms-control advisory panel
“Paul Wolfowitz, the former World Bank president and former deputy secretary of defense who was instrumental in the US decision to invade Iraq in 2003, has been named chairman of a panel that advises the State Department on arms-control issues. Wolfowitz, now a visiting scholar at the American Enterprise Institute in Washington, will head Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice's International Security Advisory Board, the State Department said yesterday in a statement. ‘The ISAB provides the Department of State with a source of independent insight, advice, and innovation on all aspects of arms control, disarmament, nonproliferation, political-military issues, and international security and related aspects of public diplomacy,’ the State Department said. Wolfowitz was among the senior US officials who warned of Iraq's alleged weapons of mass destruction capabilities, a key justification for invading Iraq and toppling the late dictator Saddam Hussein.” (The Boston Globe; 25Jan08; Janine Zacharia, Bloomberg News) http://www.boston.com/news/nation/washington/articles/2008/01/25/wolfowitz_appointed_chairman_of_arms_control_advisory_panel/

Bulgaria, U.S. to cooperate in WMD proliferation prevention
“The [g]overnment [of Bulgaria] approved a draft agreement between Bulgaria and the United States on cooperation in the prevention of the proliferation of weapons for mass destruction (WMD), the Government Information Service said on Thursday. The purpose of the agreement is to promote cooperation between the two countries in combating the proliferation of WMD and the related technologies, materials and experience to and from the territory of Bulgaria, and prevent the illegal transfer, including through transiting and transportation, of nuclear, biological chemical and radiological weapons and the related technologies and experience. The agreement will be signed for a term of six years.”
(China View, 25Jan08, Xinhua)
http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2008-01/25/content_7491062.htm

Russia says foreign spies seeking WMD data: RIA [News Agency]
“Russia's domestic security service said on Friday it had foiled several attempts by foreign spies to obtain technology for weapons of mass destruction, RIA news agency reported. The Federal Security Service (FSB) said Western and Asian spy services had tried to obtain information about nuclear enterprises in Siberia and from scientists working on secret high technology projects.” (Reuters, 25Jan08, Conor Sweeney)
http://www.reuters.com/article/worldNews/idUSL2535475320080125

CNS ChemBio-WMD Terrorism News is prepared by the Chemical and Biological Weapons Nonproliferation Program of the James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies at the Monterey Institute of International Studies in order to bring timely and focused information to researchers and policymakers interested in the fields of chemical, biological, and radiological weapons nonproliferation and WMD terrorism.

Paratroopers Help With Afghan Students' Education

By Spc. Gregory Argentieri, USA
Special to American Forces Press Service

Jan. 24, 2008 - With Task Force Saber paratroopers acting as a continuing liaison with schools in Afghanistan's Kunar and Nuristan provinces, a partnership that began in May is helping educate Afghan children. The partnership links children and schools in Afghanistan with children and schools primarily in the United States, Italy and Germany to provide Afghan children with pens, pencils, paper, chalk, notebooks and pen pals.

The paratroopers, from the 173rd Airborne Brigade's 1st Squadron, 91st Cavalry Regiment, provide updates to the partner schools on the progress of the Afghan children through pictures and letters.

"Being in the U.S., it is hard to visualize the lack of resources they have here," said Army Capt. Jay S. VanDenbos, 30, from Tahlequah, Okla., assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 1st Battalion, 91st Cavalry. "Ninety percent of the schools are open-air schools, which are sometimes a tarp and a dirt floor. They'll have a rock that they use as a chalk board, and kids sit underneath the tarp and learn."

VanDenbos said Afghan children are eager for education. "They yearn for knowledge," he said. "Any time anyone goes on patrols, the kids are screaming to 'Give me pen; give me pen.' They don't have anything they can use to learn."

The partnership program is important because the Afghans don't have money, said Army Staff Sgt. Larry D. Gormley, 39, from Livermore, Calif., assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 1-91st Cavalry. "An American school sending them paper, pens and pencils is helping to educate the Afghan people," he said. "And educated people are not the kind of people that strap a bomb to themselves and go and try to blow somebody up."

The benefit of the partnership between the schools goes both ways.

"For the American kids, it gives them a little bit of cultural awareness of the rest of the world," Gormley said. "I think the mission is great. Kids are getting school supplies, and it's improving their level of education."

Afghan teachers, who have seen their facilities destroyed over the years, are firmly behind the program and appreciate the benefits of it.

"Coalition forces are always giving school supplies to the students, and I support the coalition forces for helping the children," said Pacha Gul Aulfat, 36, an Afghan teacher. "It makes me really angry that we do not have school buildings, but coalition forces are building schools for us.

"Most of the past generations are uneducated, but my plan for the future is to teach," Aulfat continued. "I will provide the students of the next generation with an education. Now is a time for education, and all of our attention must be given to education."

The program benefits children like 10-year-old Ibrahim, who lives nearby and is spending his winter break learning English from a cook at Forward Operating Base Naray. Ibrahim said he likes school and has very good teachers. He has been attending school for only a year, but proudly says that he passed his year-end exams and will advance to the next level when school resumes.

"Whenever I get an education in the future, I would like to become a doctor or engineer," Ibrahim said. "Whenever I grow up and I become older and older, I would like to serve my country. I love my people, and this is my mission, to complete my education and serve the people of my own country."

(Army Spc. Gregory Argentieri serves in public affairs with 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team.)

Coalition Forces in Afghanistan Kill, Detain Insurgents

American Forces Press Service

Jan. 24, 2008 - Several insurgents were killed and nine suspected insurgents were detained yesterday as coalition forces conducted an operation to degrade Taliban command-and-control networks in Afghanistan's Ghazni province, military officials reported. Coalition forces searching several compounds in Ghazni district for a Taliban commander associated with suicide bombings were met with small-arms fire. They returned fire, using a combination of small-arms and aerial-delivered conventional munitions, killing several insurgents.

The coalition forces found and detained nine individuals when they continued their search of the area. The detainees will be questioned on their involvement in facilitation operations as well as other extremist activities, officials said.

Coalition forces also found and destroyed a cache of explosives to prevent further their use by extremist forces.

"We're continuing to degrade insurgents' ability to effectively manage their forces, paving the way for a stable, secure environment for the people of Afghanistan," said Army Maj. Chris Belcher, a Combined Joint Task Force 82 spokesman.

(From a Combined Joint Task Force 82 news release.)

Officials Denounce Mosul Terror Bombing

American Forces Press Service

Jan. 24, 2008 - Senior U.S. military officials denounced yesterday's deadly terror bombing that reportedly killed at least 30 Iraqi citizens and three Iraqi soldiers and injured at least 150 civilians in the northern Iraq city of Mosul. In a statement released yesterday, Multinational Force Iraq officials offered condolences to those affected by the bombing and expressed outrage over the attack.

"The Multinational Force Iraq joins with the people and government of Iraq to express condolences to the victims and families of those who perished or were injured in the explosion today in Mosul," the statement said. "We share the outrage of the Iraqi people and we denounce the brutal enemy responsible for this attack and his wanton disregard of innocent human life.

"This indiscriminate violence, meant to reverse progress and turn Iraqis against one another, again shows the nature of this barbaric enemy," the statement continued.

The statement noted that Multinational Division North personnel are working closely with authorities to ensure they have sufficient medical supplies and humanitarian assistance in the attack's aftermath. "We stand ready to provide additional support as requested and will continue to work for a peaceful, stable and prosperous Iraq," the statement said.

The bombing "is a stark example of al Qaeda's disregard for the citizens of Iraq," Army Maj. Gen. Mark P. Hertling, commander of Multinational Division North, said. "It also highlights their willingness to risk the lives of innocent civilians by storing weapons in civilian homes, causing limitless pain and suffering on innocent people to further their agenda."

The explosion occurred as Iraqi army units were conducting a raid of a weapons cache in western Mosul.

"Coalition forces will assist Iraqi civilian and security agencies in any way possible to assist in search and recovery efforts," Hertling said. "We offer our condolences to our Iraqi brothers; we will stand by our comrades as they respond to this tragedy and make every effort to bring the perpetrators to justice."

(Compiled from Multinational Force Iraq and Multinational Corps Iraq news releases.)

Joint Raid Yields Capture of Terror Cell Leader

American Forces Press Service

Jan. 24, 2008 - The suspected leader of an al Qaeda in Iraq-affiliated terror cell was detained Jan. 22 in Balad, Iraq, during a joint raid by Iraqi and American forces, military officials reported. The suspected terrorist and his cell are believed to be responsible for mortar and improvised-explosive-device attacks against coalition forces, as well as the kidnapping of innocent Iraqi civilians. The detainee also is believed to have provided safe houses, weapons and money for terrorist operations in the region, officials said.

In other news from Iraq, Iraqi and U.S. forces teamed up to detain a suspected terrorist facilitator and three other suspects during a Jan. 20 raid near Hawija, in Iraq's Kirkuk province. Officials said the men are members of an al Qaeda in Iraq cell that facilitates terrorist attacks.

Also, U.S. soldiers detained a suspected insurgent linked to the detonation of a Jan. 18 explosively formed penetrator explosion in northeastern Baghdad that killed an Iraqi mother and her child. Five other suspects also were detained.

(Compiled from Multinational Force Iraq and Multinational Corps Iraq news releases.)

Team Brings Medical Care, Winter Clothes to Afghan Villagers

By Spc. Nathan W. Hutchison, USA
Special to American Forces Press Service

Jan. 24, 2008 - As seasons change in Afghanistan and the snow starts falling, assistance missions shift from development efforts to missions that focus on providing protection from winter's harsh conditions. Recently, the Afghan National Police and the Ghazni Provincial Reconstruction Team provided medical care, as well as clothes, blankets and toys, to villages throughout the province.

Nawa, one of the more remote districts in the Ghazni province with only one active clinic for about 40 villages, had been reluctant to accept medical care from coalition forces prior to this mission on Jan 12.

"The PRT before us came down and did medical outreaches like we are doing, but no one ever showed up except for a few (police officers)," said Navy Lt. Keith B. Hoekman, medical officer for Ghazni PRT. "Recently, some of the village elders got together and requested we come down and provide some medical care." Radio messages informed the villagers that PRT medics would be available at the clinic, and about 100 people were waiting when the team arrived.

Army Pvt. Shawn M. Testa, a combat medic with the 82nd Airborne Division's 3rd Platoon, Company B, 2nd Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, said the ailments they treated ranged from minor colds to serious diseases.

"We saw different age groups, from infants to the elderly, and they seemed to feel comfortable with us," said Testa, a Bristol, Conn., native. "We get the feeling of satisfaction because they really appreciated us being there to help."

But satisfaction wasn't the only thing to be gained for a soldier with less than a year in the Army and only two months in Afghanistan.

"I learned a lot about different medications and ailments," Testa said. "It was good to see and help that many people who were actually sick and be able to help them."

More women showed up to be treated than expected, Hoekman said.

"We saw over 750 people during the four days, including more than 150 women, which is a huge number for this area," he said. "For a typical medical engagement in Ghazni province, only about 5 percent would be female, and almost all them would be little girls. It is a huge indicator the people trust us and are willing to stand up against the Taliban's attempted control."

Villagers in Small Nawa did not attend the initial event, either because of Taliban warnings or weather, but by the next day they eagerly sought the medical aid from the team.

"The only region that didn't make it the first two days was Small Nawa, the region where they had a lot of kidnappings and a pretty consistent enemy presence," said Army 1st Lt. Mordechai D. Sorkin, 3rd Platoon leader, Company B, 2nd Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment. "The PRT guys still had supplies, so we took a trip, along with the (Afghan National Police) and subgovernor, to a couple villages there."

Sorkin said the initial response was not positive, but that soon the people crowded the improvised clinic for medical assistance.

"So many people turned out," the Sacramento, Calif., native said. "It was just another demonstration that the government is here to help them and the coalition forces are here to support the government."

Hoekman said future medical programs are being planned because of the large turnout and positive response during this mission.

"They are talking about this mission as a medical assessment to figure out what to do for more long-term medical solutions in this area," Sorkin said. "I just hope next time (the PRT) comes longer so we can hit more areas."

Hoekman said the mission's enormous success was not anticipated because of the low turnout in previous missions.

"I think it truly is a change in the tide of people's perception about their government and coalition forces, and their willingness to stand up against the Taliban," Hoekman said. "That is a significant breakthrough, so I see good things to come in Nawa district."

(Army Spc. Nathan W. Hutchison serves with the 22nd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment.)

With Al Qaeda Gone, Combat Outpost Construction Begins

By Sgt. Michael Connors, USA
Special to American Forces Press Service

Jan. 24, 2008 - Just days after a precision air strike rooted out al Qaeda in Iraq operatives in the Arab Jabour area, south of Baghdad, combat engineers arrived to build Multinational Division Center's newest combat outpost. On Jan. 15, soldiers with 535th Equipment Support Company, 479th Engineer Battalion, convoyed from Camp Stryker, in Baghdad, to Zambraniyah, 15 miles southwest in southern Arab Jabour, to begin construction on Combat Outpost Meade. Coalition air strikes hit more than 40 targets Jan. 10 to secure the area in support of Operation Marne Thunderbolt.

Army Maj. Gen. Rick Lynch, Multinational Division Center commander, visited the area Jan. 16, stopping at Combat Outpost Meade, Patrol Base 2 and a former al Qaeda safe house that was captured and converted to a coalition forces observation point.

"I just want to tell you I'm proud to be here with you," Lynch told the combat engineers gathered around him at Combat Outpost Meade. "You all have had more impact than you'll ever know. ... The whole world is turning right here right now at Combat Outpost Meade. We'll fight the global war on terrorism here so we won't have to fight it back home."

After rallying the troops, Lynch handed out commemorative Task Force Marne pocket knives and his personal coins.

On site for less than two days, the engineers already had graded the ground, and a significant proportion of the outer wall was completed. Soldiers built the wall with Hesco barriers -- wire-framed, fabric-lined containers filled with dirt.

Army Pfc. Charles Brosnahan, from Granton, Wis., explained his unit's mission. "We're just trying to build up a spot so the infantry can come in, clean house and keep their sweep going to push the terrorists further away," he said. "(Soldiers) can't do that without a place to live, so we come out here first and build it up."

Combat Outpost Meade is being cut out of an empty field in the vast rural community. Surrounding land is relatively flat, with a smattering of date palm trees and dry shrubs. Homes are spread out over a checkerboard of colorless, sandy fields and thriving green farmland.

Abrams tanks from 4th Battalion, 64th Armor Regiment, attached to 6th Squadron, 8th Cavalry Regiment, and Bradley fighting vehicles from 6-8 Cavalry Regiment, attached to the 3rd Infantry Division's 2nd Brigade Combat Team, stood guard around the perimeter of the new base.

In what is known as "terrain-denial fire," Kiowa helicopters from the 3rd Infantry Division's 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade fired munitions in the distance at passages leading into the area. The overall scene sent a strong message to any lurking al Qaeda elements that coming back was an impossible proposition.

The terrain denial fire blasts occurred several times per hour. Though startling at first, they blended into the din of heavy equipment construction as the day wore on. The combat engineers went steadily about their work, unfazed by their job shaping land so close to frontline fighting just days before.

The 535th was joined at Combat Outpost Meade by soldiers of Company C, 864th Engineering Battalion. While the 535th got a head start on horizontal engineering -- working the land, the 8-64th will be responsible for vertical engineering -- building the structures.

The new base is scheduled for completion by mid-February, said Master Sgt. Joe Constante, from Kerrville, Texas, the division's engineer noncommissioned officer in charge. Multinational Division Center has built 16 bases since March.

Army Spc. Richard Kunard, from El Paso, Texas, a combat engineer with the 535th, echoed Brosnahan's remarks on the purpose of Combat Outpost Meade.

"Ultimately, it will push the insurgents out of this area," he said. "If they have no place to stay, they're always going to be moving, and it will be easier for us to pick them off or locate them and deter any further attacks."

(Army Sgt. Michael Connors serves with the Multinational Division Center Public Affairs Office.)

General Shares Successes, Challenges of Afghan Air Corps

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

Jan. 24, 2008 - The Afghan army air corps is going through rapid growth, but it will take eight years for the force to be self-sustaining and independent, the commander of the Combined Air Power Transition Force said from his headquarters in the Afghan capital of Kabul today. Air Force Brig. Gen. Jay H. Lindell told Pentagon reporters via video-teleconference that the air corps has doubled its capability since October and that he expects it to double again in the next six months.

His 133 U.S. servicemembers are helping the Afghan National Army establish the air corps. Ultimately, the force will have 112 aircraft and 7,400 personnel. It now has 1,950 personnel, about 180 of them pilots.

The command has an eight-year campaign plan to acquire aircraft and train the force, but it is flying now.

"We're well on our way," Lindell said.

The air corps now has four Antonov fixed-wing transport planes and 16 Mi-17 and Mi-35 helicopters. The general said the force will receive 16 more Mi-17, six more Mi-35 helicopters, and four more Antonovs in the next six months. The air corps also will buy 20 C-27A Spartan aircraft, with the first set to arrive in June 2009.

The air corps is engaged in operations daily, Lindell said, flying five fixed-wing missions each day. The command, with Afghan National Army concurrence, has decided to concentrate on building the air mobility aspect of the air corps. "That is the urgent and most critical need that the Afghan national security forces need," the general said.

The air corps will pick up these logistical missions that the Afghan National Army has relied on U.S. or NATO forces to perform.

"On the rotary-wing side, they are actually performing more training missions than operational right now," Lindell said, adding that medical evacuation missions are on the air corps' near horizon.

"We will soon start medevac operations here out of Kabul, and in three months we plan to have medevac operations established at Kandahar with the Afghan air corps," the general said.

Though the force is flying and growing, the air corps suffers from a lack of trained personnel and an aging pilot force. The average age of air corps pilots is 43, and some have not flown for 15 years, he said. The Afghan military has not trained a new pilot since 1992.

"The Afghan pilots that are currently flying are very good stick-and-rudder pilots," Lindell said. "They're very competent; they're professional. They can fly the missions that they're assigned to today. It's just that they do not have the resources."

The Afghan pilots are "day pilots," Lindell said. They do not fly at night or in limited visibility.

"As this force ages, it won't sustain this air corps for the long term, and we are developing plans to train new pilots and bring youth into the program," he said.

The command hopes to begin training 48 pilots a year beginning this year. That will take some years to develop, and at first, the Afghan pilots will train outside the country, probably in the United States.

"Then we hope to develop our training capacity in country here, Afghans training Afghans to be new pilots for this air corps," Lindell said.

In three years, the command hopes to begin training Afghan army air corps personnel to pick up more missions, such as direct ground support and intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance capability.

The force's ground crews and maintenance technicians are retired Afghan personnel. They do on-the-job training with their maintenance technicians. The command is working on a formal technical training school that will be developed in Kabul.

"We will start that coursework this year," Lindell said. "We will recruit personnel. They'll go through their military basic training, and then we'll run them through our aviation branch school training here in this technical training center as we develop these maintenance technicians."

This year the air corps will graduate about 20 personnel from the tech school, ramping up to at least 350 a year over the next two years.

The air corps uses Eastern Bloc aircraft because that is what the Afghans are used to. However, servicing the aircraft presents problems. "We're not in good shape, and we do have parts problems," Lindell said.

In September, Lindell's command let a $20 million contract to order parts for Afghanistan's legacy aircraft: the Antonov aircraft and the Mi-17s and Mi-35s.

"We've received some of those parts," he said. "We also plan to put on contract the logistics sustainment system. The logistics sustainment system will be initially a contractor that will help supply-chain management with the right parts, with the right certified quality parts for these legacy aircraft, help us with the support equipment, help us with the tooling necessary to maintain them, help us with the tech orders that we need to maintain these aircraft, and some training for the Afghan maintenance personnel."

The eight-year campaign plan is ambitious, but doable, he said.

"We believe we can build this air corps to an adequate level where they are self-sufficient and they do have operational capability to meet their security needs," Lindell said. "I'm just extremely proud of the 133 personnel assigned to the Combined Air Power Transition Force, as we build and develop this Afghan air corps."

Medical Operation Helps Iraqi School Children, Families

By Sgt. James P. Hunter, USA
Special to American Forces Press Service

Jan. 24, 2008 - Hundreds of Iraqi school children and adults received medical care Jan. 16, when soldiers from the 101st Airborne Division's 1st Battalion, 320th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, held a medical operation at central Baghdad's Swaib school. Soldiers from 3rd Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division, handled outer security and crowd control, while Iraqi doctors, physicians, nurses, pharmacists and a dentist worked side by side with their American counterparts to meet the needs of Iraqi citizens.

Doctors saw nearly 300 children and 150 adults that day, said Army Capt. Melvin Jackson, civil affairs officer with 1st Battalion, 320th Field Artillery.

Only one physician, Dr. Abass, normally is available to react to the people's needs in the neighborhood, and he does not have a staff, money or resources to fully aid his fellow citizens, Jackson said.

Though Abass is regarded as a town hero because of his professionalism and demeanor to aid his Iraqi friends and neighbors, he can only do so much, said Sgt. Jason Torres, a medic with the 1-320th FA's personnel security detachment platoon.

Jackson recalled an Iraqi child about 6 years old who had an ear infection.

"Back in the states, if we had an ear infection we'd go see the local doctor and get the necessary antibiotics or medication to take care of it," Jackson said. "This kid had what I consider a mild ear infection, but because it was untreated or he just didn't have the access to a local doctor or medicine to treat it, he became very dizzy and disoriented, and it messed up his inner equilibrium."

The boy eventually was seen by a local doctor and was taken to the Abu Ghraib hospital outside the area and treated.

"Something mild became worse than it originally was, and for that reason they need local health care to deal with minor issues -- cuts, abrasions, flu -- before it turns into something major like pneumonia, severe ear infection or bronchitis," Jackson continued.

Jackson said he hopes the Iraqi Health Ministry recognizes Abass' clinic as a health care center and provides the clinic with health care personnel to help him treat the people in the area.

Jackson said the medical operation provided a chance for Iraqi and U.S. physicians to reach out to the people in Swaib.

"It highlights Iraqis helping Iraqis," he said. "You have the Iraqi army securing the event. You've got local-national nurses and doctors giving back to the community. Ultimately, the long-term effect of this is to get Iraqis to sustain themselves, and this is a small step towards that."

During the medical operation, the physicians saw everything from upper respiratory infections to toothaches, but the medical care is only a part of the operation's success, Torres said.

"I personally feel this builds a better relationship between us and the Iraqis. Especially when we talk about the medical field, we get to find out what our strengths and weaknesses are," he said. "Most importantly, it benefits the Iraqi people; they get the medical attention they need."

(Army Sgt. James P. Hunter serves in public affairs with the 101st Airborne Division's 2nd Brigade Combat Team.)

Iraqi Air Force Builds on 2007 Growth in Size, Capability

By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service

Jan. 24, 2008 - "Tremendous" growth in the Iraqi air force last year in terms of capability as well as capacity is expected to continue in 2008 as Iraq builds its air force from the ground up, a senior U.S. officer assisting that effort reported today. During 2007, the Iraqis stood up four air force training schools and graduated their first military pilots' class since 2003, Air Force Col. Lyman "Lewie" Edwards, who also serves as chief of staff and deputy commander for the Coalition Air Force Transition Team, told retired military analysts via teleconference from Baghdad.

Last year saw other signs of growth, as well. In December, the Iraqis unveiled their new air operations center near Baghdad for command and control functions. The Iraqi air force doubled its fleet to 56 aircraft.

The Iraqi air force has a mix of rotary and fixed-wing aircraft, including UH-1 Huey helicopters, Cessna 172 Skyhawk and 208 Caravan aircraft, CH-2000 military tactical surveillance aircraft, and three C-130 Hercules cargo aircraft. A Dec. 28 ceremony in Baghdad marked the delivery of the newest addition to the fleet, the Beechcraft KingAir 350.

The Iraqis plan to buy more aircraft, including three additional C-130s. They also hope to add fighter jets to the fleet, although Edwards said the framework for supporting those aircraft -- from training to maintenance -- has to be worked out first.

With more members and aircraft, the Iraqi air force was able to carry out more missions during 2007.

"As the capacity of the air force grew, the capability also grew," Edwards said.

The Iraqi air force was flying about 30 sorties a week in January 2007, but increased that number to more than 300 per week by December.

These sorties were both training and operational missions, or a combination of the two, Edwards said. Iraq's air force moved about 13,000 passengers and 400 tons of cargo while conducting about 1,500 intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance flights.

The ISR missions focused heavily on critical infrastructure, with Iraqi aircraft patrolling oil pipelines, electrical power lines and other potential targets to identify enemy activity. "This way, we get a combination of training while doing actual missions," Edwards said.

All signs point to continued growth and a bigger role in the counterinsurgency fight, Edwards said.

"The plan is to continue in 2008, moving closer to fully equipping the Iraqi air force to fight and win (against) the counterinsurgency threat while training more airmen to accomplish that mission," he said.

In addition to sending former Iraqi pilots through refresher training, the Iraqi air force is actively recruiting new members. Earlier this month, 116 new officers completed basic training at the training facility in Taji. The graduation marked the first time Iraqi air force officers taught the two-month course that provides basic military training and education to new recruits.

Two months into his one-year deployment in Iraq, Edwards said, he's found the work under way "exciting and rewarding."

"It's great work. I've been awestruck at the ... amount of stuff that's been accomplished here," he said. "It's amazing to be over here to see what we are doing, to be able to assist ... Iraq, working side by side with the air force and the defense ministry leadership to build an air force from the ground up, literally.

"It's just something that few people have experienced in the past and, hopefully, few people will experience in the future," he said. "It's truly something I will be able to tell my grandchildren about someday."