The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Sgt 1st Class Miguel A. Wilson, 36, of Bonham, Texas, died Nov. 21 in Abu Sayf, Iraq, of injuries sustained during a rescue attempt of another soldier while their unit was conducting a dismounted reconnaissance mission. He was assigned to the 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, Fort Hood, Texas.
The incident remains under investigation.
For more information media may contact the Fort Hood public affairs office at (254) 287-9993 or 254-287-2520; after hours (254) 291-2591.
Monday, November 24, 2008
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Forces Kill 19 Militants, Detain 11 in Afghanistan
American Forces Press Service
Nov. 23, 2008 - Coalition and Afghan forces killed 19 armed militants, detained 11 suspects and destroyed weapons in Afghanistan in recent days, military officials reported.
Combined forces killed 17 insurgents during an air assault operation in the Shah Wali Kot district of Kandahar province yesterday.
The combined force aimed the assault at a known insurgent safe haven to interdict enemy supplies and fighters. Insurgents in multiple locations fired on forces with automatic weapons and rocket-propelled grenades. Troops returned fire, killing 17 militants. Forces also discovered and destroyed several small weapons caches on site. The stockpiles contained ammunition and bomb-making materials.
Elsewhere in Afghanistan yesterday, coalition forces detained eight suspected militants, including a wanted individual, during an operation aimed at the Haqqani terrorist organization leadership in Paktika province.
Forces targeted a compound in the Orgun district, where military officials believed a Haqqani commander was planning and conducting attacks against local civilians, the Afghan government and coalition forces.
These apprehensions come at a time when recent intelligence indicated that militants in the area were planning attacks against civilians who work with the government and coalition troops in Paktika, Khowst and Paktika provinces, military officials said.
In Ghazni a day earlier, coalition forces detained three suspected militants, including a local Taliban commander, military officials said.
Troops caught the military leader at a compound in the Waghez district in the Nov. 21 operation. The suspect is known to be in direct contact with senior Taliban leaders in the region who facilitate the movement of foreign fighters and coordinate terrorist activities, military officials said.
In Afghanistan on Nov. 20, coalition forces killed two armed militants, and mistakenly killed a civilian during a raid in Zabul province. Troops injured four other civilians during a clearing operation. Forces provided medical care and compensation to the families of the civilian casualties.
(Compiled from U.S. Forces Afghanistan news releases.)
Nov. 23, 2008 - Coalition and Afghan forces killed 19 armed militants, detained 11 suspects and destroyed weapons in Afghanistan in recent days, military officials reported.
Combined forces killed 17 insurgents during an air assault operation in the Shah Wali Kot district of Kandahar province yesterday.
The combined force aimed the assault at a known insurgent safe haven to interdict enemy supplies and fighters. Insurgents in multiple locations fired on forces with automatic weapons and rocket-propelled grenades. Troops returned fire, killing 17 militants. Forces also discovered and destroyed several small weapons caches on site. The stockpiles contained ammunition and bomb-making materials.
Elsewhere in Afghanistan yesterday, coalition forces detained eight suspected militants, including a wanted individual, during an operation aimed at the Haqqani terrorist organization leadership in Paktika province.
Forces targeted a compound in the Orgun district, where military officials believed a Haqqani commander was planning and conducting attacks against local civilians, the Afghan government and coalition forces.
These apprehensions come at a time when recent intelligence indicated that militants in the area were planning attacks against civilians who work with the government and coalition troops in Paktika, Khowst and Paktika provinces, military officials said.
In Ghazni a day earlier, coalition forces detained three suspected militants, including a local Taliban commander, military officials said.
Troops caught the military leader at a compound in the Waghez district in the Nov. 21 operation. The suspect is known to be in direct contact with senior Taliban leaders in the region who facilitate the movement of foreign fighters and coordinate terrorist activities, military officials said.
In Afghanistan on Nov. 20, coalition forces killed two armed militants, and mistakenly killed a civilian during a raid in Zabul province. Troops injured four other civilians during a clearing operation. Forces provided medical care and compensation to the families of the civilian casualties.
(Compiled from U.S. Forces Afghanistan news releases.)
Troops in Iraq Capture 42 Suspected Terrorists, Seize Weapons
American Forces Press Service
Nov. 23, 2008 - Coalition and Iraqi forces detained 42 suspected terrorists and seized weapons caches across Iraq over the past three days, military officials said. In two separate operations in Baghdad today, troops captured eight suspected members of an insurgent network. military officials said the network, known as Asaib Ahl al-Haq, engages in roadside bombings, kidnappings and sectarian killings.
During the first operation, coalition forces caught three suspected insurgents without incident in the Adhamiyah district. Troops detained five other alleged Asaib Ahl al-Haq members in New Baghdad.
Also in Baghdad's Adhamiyah district today, troops apprehended six alleged members of the Kataib Hezbollah network. During the course of operations, forces also discovered two AK-47 assault rifles, a shotgun and several handguns.
During operations in Iraq yesterday:
-- Troops detained seven suspects in Baghdad during an operation targeting a local al-Qaida in Iraq car-bomb facilitator, military officials said.
-- Forces in Beiji caught one wanted man believed to be a cell leader of an al-Qaida in Iraq roadside bombing ring in the region. Forces detained two other suspected terrorists in the raid; they are being held for further questioning.
-- Iraqi police thwarted a kidnapping attempt in the Shaab neighborhood of Baghdad's Adhamiyah district. The police opened fire on four gunmen in a white van in the midst of a kidnapping attempt, injuring one man who was detained on site. police later nabbed a second kidnapper.
-- Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers detained a suspected terrorist and a wanted individual in southern Bahdad's Rashid district. The suspect allegedly has ties with al-Qaeda in Iraq groups operating in the area and is believed to have assisted in carrying out bombing attacks.
-- Coalition and Iraqi forces disrupted terrorist activities during two operations in Ninevah province. In Mosul, combined forces dismantled a roadside bomb, and in Saraj, they seized a cache of weapons containing assault rifles, ammunition, bomb-making materials and other military equipment.
-- Troops discovered three weapons caches in the Iraqi capital that contained mortars, rockets, grenades, roadside bombs, assault rifles and other military equipment. Stockpiles were discovered in Baghdad's Sadr City, Rashid and Rusafa areas.
During Nov. 21 operations in Iraq:
-- Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers caught six alleged terrorists in Baghdad's Adhamiyah district. Military officials said the detained individuals are suspected of crimes against Iraqi people and security personnel and coalition forces. Troops also confiscated five cell phones, two vehicles and a suitcase containing the equivalent of $200.
-- Forces near Yusifiyah detained a suspected terrorist believed to be an al-Qaida in Iraq car-bomb and roadside-bomb cell member who operates in Baghdad and Fallujah. Troops captured three additional suspects in the operation.
-- Coalition forces captured a wanted man believed to be responsible for planting roadside bombs targeting troops along roads in and around Beiji. Reports suggest the suspected terrorist also threatens Iraqis who cooperate with coalition forces. Troops detained one additional man for further questioning.
-- Troops in the Risalah community of Baghdad detained two suspected criminals during an operation.
-- Coalition and Iraq forces discovered weapons caches in the New Baghdad and West Rashid districts of the Iraqi capital. The inventories included an anti-tank guided missile, grenades, ammunition and other military equipment.
(Compiled from Multinational Force Iraq and Multinational Corps Iraq news releases.)
Nov. 23, 2008 - Coalition and Iraqi forces detained 42 suspected terrorists and seized weapons caches across Iraq over the past three days, military officials said. In two separate operations in Baghdad today, troops captured eight suspected members of an insurgent network. military officials said the network, known as Asaib Ahl al-Haq, engages in roadside bombings, kidnappings and sectarian killings.
During the first operation, coalition forces caught three suspected insurgents without incident in the Adhamiyah district. Troops detained five other alleged Asaib Ahl al-Haq members in New Baghdad.
Also in Baghdad's Adhamiyah district today, troops apprehended six alleged members of the Kataib Hezbollah network. During the course of operations, forces also discovered two AK-47 assault rifles, a shotgun and several handguns.
During operations in Iraq yesterday:
-- Troops detained seven suspects in Baghdad during an operation targeting a local al-Qaida in Iraq car-bomb facilitator, military officials said.
-- Forces in Beiji caught one wanted man believed to be a cell leader of an al-Qaida in Iraq roadside bombing ring in the region. Forces detained two other suspected terrorists in the raid; they are being held for further questioning.
-- Iraqi police thwarted a kidnapping attempt in the Shaab neighborhood of Baghdad's Adhamiyah district. The police opened fire on four gunmen in a white van in the midst of a kidnapping attempt, injuring one man who was detained on site. police later nabbed a second kidnapper.
-- Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers detained a suspected terrorist and a wanted individual in southern Bahdad's Rashid district. The suspect allegedly has ties with al-Qaeda in Iraq groups operating in the area and is believed to have assisted in carrying out bombing attacks.
-- Coalition and Iraqi forces disrupted terrorist activities during two operations in Ninevah province. In Mosul, combined forces dismantled a roadside bomb, and in Saraj, they seized a cache of weapons containing assault rifles, ammunition, bomb-making materials and other military equipment.
-- Troops discovered three weapons caches in the Iraqi capital that contained mortars, rockets, grenades, roadside bombs, assault rifles and other military equipment. Stockpiles were discovered in Baghdad's Sadr City, Rashid and Rusafa areas.
During Nov. 21 operations in Iraq:
-- Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers caught six alleged terrorists in Baghdad's Adhamiyah district. Military officials said the detained individuals are suspected of crimes against Iraqi people and security personnel and coalition forces. Troops also confiscated five cell phones, two vehicles and a suitcase containing the equivalent of $200.
-- Forces near Yusifiyah detained a suspected terrorist believed to be an al-Qaida in Iraq car-bomb and roadside-bomb cell member who operates in Baghdad and Fallujah. Troops captured three additional suspects in the operation.
-- Coalition forces captured a wanted man believed to be responsible for planting roadside bombs targeting troops along roads in and around Beiji. Reports suggest the suspected terrorist also threatens Iraqis who cooperate with coalition forces. Troops detained one additional man for further questioning.
-- Troops in the Risalah community of Baghdad detained two suspected criminals during an operation.
-- Coalition and Iraq forces discovered weapons caches in the New Baghdad and West Rashid districts of the Iraqi capital. The inventories included an anti-tank guided missile, grenades, ammunition and other military equipment.
(Compiled from Multinational Force Iraq and Multinational Corps Iraq news releases.)
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Pvt. Charles Yi Barnett, 19, of Bel Air, Maryland, died on Nov. 20 of injuries sustained from a non-combat related incident in Tallil, Iraq. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 12th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas.
The incident is under investigation.
For more information, media may contact the Fort Hood public affairs office at (254) 287-9993 and after hours at (254) 291-2591.
Pvt. Charles Yi Barnett, 19, of Bel Air, Maryland, died on Nov. 20 of injuries sustained from a non-combat related incident in Tallil, Iraq. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 12th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas.
The incident is under investigation.
For more information, media may contact the Fort Hood public affairs office at (254) 287-9993 and after hours at (254) 291-2591.
Friday, November 21, 2008
Electronic Warfare Officers Keep Soldiers Safe
By Army Pfc. Evan Loyd
Special to American Forces Press Service
Nov. 21, 2008 - Navy Cmdr. Ed Fischer and Air Force 1st Lt. E.J. Wong would seem to be out of place in an Army heavy brigade combat team conducting operations in Iraq.
Fischer, whose career field is nuclear engineering, and Wong, an air battle manager, are electronic warfare officers for the 1st Armored Division's 2nd Brigade Combat Team, and they play a critical role in ensuring the safety of brigade soldiers.
"We maintain, field and upgrade the electronic countermeasures throughout the brigade," Wong, a San Francisco native, said.
Electronic warfare officers keep soldiers safe by ensuring that electronic equipment designed to counter enemy tactics -- such as the Warlock system, which protects soldiers from roadside bombs -- is maintained and working properly.
With electronic threats to the U.S. military evolving constantly, the means of fighting that threat must change to keep up, Wong explained.
Prior to arriving to the unit, Fischer said, he wasn't sure what to expect as a naval officer joining the ranks of an Army unit.
"Since I've arrived, I feel like I have been accepted well," the Washington, N.C., native said. "I've never once felt like I don't belong. I feel like I am a part of the team, and in the same sense, I am treated like I am a part of the team."
Wong, who served in Iraq in previous deployments as an air weapons officer, volunteered to deploy again with less than a week's notice.
"We're all part of one big American team, and I've been accepted really well," he said. "It's been great getting the first-hand experience while being out here with the 2nd BCT."
Wong studied electronic warfare at Fort Huachuca, Ariz., for a month, learning the fundamentals of basic radio and radar theory. His training culminated in hands-on training in Warlock operations and maintenance.
This expertise is invaluable to ensure soldiers are not harmed while operating in their sector, he said.
(Army Pfc. Evan Loyd serves with the 1st Armored Division's 2nd Brigade Combat Team.)
Special to American Forces Press Service
Nov. 21, 2008 - Navy Cmdr. Ed Fischer and Air Force 1st Lt. E.J. Wong would seem to be out of place in an Army heavy brigade combat team conducting operations in Iraq.
Fischer, whose career field is nuclear engineering, and Wong, an air battle manager, are electronic warfare officers for the 1st Armored Division's 2nd Brigade Combat Team, and they play a critical role in ensuring the safety of brigade soldiers.
"We maintain, field and upgrade the electronic countermeasures throughout the brigade," Wong, a San Francisco native, said.
Electronic warfare officers keep soldiers safe by ensuring that electronic equipment designed to counter enemy tactics -- such as the Warlock system, which protects soldiers from roadside bombs -- is maintained and working properly.
With electronic threats to the U.S. military evolving constantly, the means of fighting that threat must change to keep up, Wong explained.
Prior to arriving to the unit, Fischer said, he wasn't sure what to expect as a naval officer joining the ranks of an Army unit.
"Since I've arrived, I feel like I have been accepted well," the Washington, N.C., native said. "I've never once felt like I don't belong. I feel like I am a part of the team, and in the same sense, I am treated like I am a part of the team."
Wong, who served in Iraq in previous deployments as an air weapons officer, volunteered to deploy again with less than a week's notice.
"We're all part of one big American team, and I've been accepted really well," he said. "It's been great getting the first-hand experience while being out here with the 2nd BCT."
Wong studied electronic warfare at Fort Huachuca, Ariz., for a month, learning the fundamentals of basic radio and radar theory. His training culminated in hands-on training in Warlock operations and maintenance.
This expertise is invaluable to ensure soldiers are not harmed while operating in their sector, he said.
(Army Pfc. Evan Loyd serves with the 1st Armored Division's 2nd Brigade Combat Team.)
Soldiers Build New Aid Station in Afghanistan
By Army Sgt. Zach Otto
Special to American Forces Press Service
Nov. 21, 2008 - Soldiers with a battalion of the 101st Airborne Division have rebuilt an aid station allowing them to improve care in a critical part of Afghanistan. Located in a highly violent area of Afghanistan, Combat Outpost Zirok is near a route insurgents use to enter the country from Pakistan, making a large and organized aid station a necessity.
The outpost's aid station originally was housed in a narrow metal shipping container. It was difficult to keep things organized, and if a patient required more than one medic, it was nearly impossible to move around. With the recent arrival of two new platoons, the need for a larger aid station became clear.
When Army Staff Sgt. David Edwards, the treatment noncommissioned officer in charge of the 101st Airborne Division's Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Battalion, 506th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, was sent to COP Zirok, his first task was to make the aid station larger.
He began building a new station from scratch. Along the way, battalion soldiers jumped in and started helping. In less than a month, the new station was up and running.
"Everyone knew this was a benefit for them on this COP, so everyone pitched in and helped out in the construction of it," Edwards said. "This aid station benefits COP Zirok tremendously. I am now able to have more than one person helping on a patient as well as have all supplies within arm's reach and organized."
The new structure is about 400 percent larger than the previous one and provides a sleeping area for four on-call medics so they can be ready at a moment's notice to treat patients.
"The new aid station gives us the opportunity to treat more people as well as have more organization within the station itself," said Army 1st Lt. Dan Huff, executive officer for the battalion's Company A.
The Zirok aid station is stocked with everything from small adhesive bandages to advanced trauma supplies, and it can hold up to four patients. However, patients will not spend extended lengths of time there.
"We would stabilize the patient long enough for them to be flown to another hospital," Edwards said. "We would analyze the soldier and decide, depending on what type of injury, on which hospital to send them to."
The aid station is able to perform many of the same tasks a field hospital can. Edwards said this is possible because of the well-trained medics at COP Zirok and the medical staff at Forward Operating Base Orgun-E.
"With FOB Orgun-E being so close and in direct contact with us, we can get advice any time, as well as same-day supplies if need be," Edwards said.
(Army Sgt. Zach Otto serves in Combined Joint Task Force
Special to American Forces Press Service
Nov. 21, 2008 - Soldiers with a battalion of the 101st Airborne Division have rebuilt an aid station allowing them to improve care in a critical part of Afghanistan. Located in a highly violent area of Afghanistan, Combat Outpost Zirok is near a route insurgents use to enter the country from Pakistan, making a large and organized aid station a necessity.
The outpost's aid station originally was housed in a narrow metal shipping container. It was difficult to keep things organized, and if a patient required more than one medic, it was nearly impossible to move around. With the recent arrival of two new platoons, the need for a larger aid station became clear.
When Army Staff Sgt. David Edwards, the treatment noncommissioned officer in charge of the 101st Airborne Division's Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Battalion, 506th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, was sent to COP Zirok, his first task was to make the aid station larger.
He began building a new station from scratch. Along the way, battalion soldiers jumped in and started helping. In less than a month, the new station was up and running.
"Everyone knew this was a benefit for them on this COP, so everyone pitched in and helped out in the construction of it," Edwards said. "This aid station benefits COP Zirok tremendously. I am now able to have more than one person helping on a patient as well as have all supplies within arm's reach and organized."
The new structure is about 400 percent larger than the previous one and provides a sleeping area for four on-call medics so they can be ready at a moment's notice to treat patients.
"The new aid station gives us the opportunity to treat more people as well as have more organization within the station itself," said Army 1st Lt. Dan Huff, executive officer for the battalion's Company A.
The Zirok aid station is stocked with everything from small adhesive bandages to advanced trauma supplies, and it can hold up to four patients. However, patients will not spend extended lengths of time there.
"We would stabilize the patient long enough for them to be flown to another hospital," Edwards said. "We would analyze the soldier and decide, depending on what type of injury, on which hospital to send them to."
The aid station is able to perform many of the same tasks a field hospital can. Edwards said this is possible because of the well-trained medics at COP Zirok and the medical staff at Forward Operating Base Orgun-E.
"With FOB Orgun-E being so close and in direct contact with us, we can get advice any time, as well as same-day supplies if need be," Edwards said.
(Army Sgt. Zach Otto serves in Combined Joint Task Force
CBR Weapons and WMD Terrorism News- November 21, 2008
Are we safer since 9/11? A special report investigates
“[…] A special report for Reader's Digest by ProPublica, an independent, nonprofit newsroom that produces investigative journalism in the public interest, suggests [that] despite some $48 billion in federal spending on biodefense—including a new nationwide network of research labs and a $1 billion detection system called BioWatch operating in more than 30 cities-the nation may be just as vulnerable to an attack today as it ever was. Indeed, some biodefense experts warn, we may be less safe. […] Frustrated weapons-proliferation experts complain that biodefense programs are haphazard and disorganized, […] [and] government programs have heightened the level of danger by vastly increasing the number of researchers and labs authorized to handle deadly substances. […] Brian Finlay, a senior associate at the Henry L. Stimson Center, a nonpartisan think tank, puts it bluntly: ‘There's no question that the proliferation of bioresearch is leaving us less secure by the day.’” (Reader’s Digest; 20Nov08; Marcus Stern & Adam Piore) http://www.rd.com/your-america-inspiring-people-and-stories/are-we-safer-since-911-a-special-report-investigates/article106961.html
Georgia launches disaster mental health web site
“The Georgia Department of Human Resources (DHR) is proud to launch a new web site that addresses the effects that natural and man-made disasters can have on citizens’ mental and behavioral health. The Disaster Mental Health web site georgiadisaster.info contains information, recommendations and guidance on how to handle personal and community crisis situations, as well as how to bounce back from a crisis. The web site was developed by the University of West Georgia in collaboration with DHR’s Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Addictive Diseases (MHDDAD) and the Division of Public Health (PH) using federal funds from the Bioterrorism Health Community Preparedness Program.” (Emax Health; 21Nov08; Source: Georgia Department of Human Resources) http://www.emaxhealth.com/2/7/26784/georgia-launches-disaster-mental-health-web-site.html
Boston [MA] launches flu shot tracking
“Using technology originally developed for mass disasters, Boston disease trackers are […] creating a citywide registry of everyone who has had a flu vaccination. The resulting vaccination map would allow swift intervention in neighborhoods left vulnerable to the fast-moving respiratory illness. Infectious disease specialists in Boston and elsewhere predicted that the registry approach could prove even more useful if something more sinister strikes: a bioterrorism attack or the long-feared arrival of a global flu epidemic. In such crises, the registry could be used to track who received a special vaccine or antidote to a deadly germ.” (Boston Globe; 21Nov08; Stephen Smith) http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/articles/2008/11/21/boston_launches_flu_shot_tracking/
Md. lawmakers consider anthrax investigation commission “
U.S. Rep. Elijah Cummings’ Washington, D.C., office was shuttered in 2001 after anthrax spores were found, so he’s ‘very sensitive’ to the investigation into the crime, he said. Now, Cummings said he supports a review of the investigation. U.S. Rep. Rush Holt, D-N.J., proposed legislation in September to create a congressional commission to investigate the attacks and the federal government’s response. ‘Whatever we have to do to get to the bottom of this anthrax issue, we need to do it,’ Cummings said. Holt’s bipartisan commission would mirror the 9/11 commission and make recommendations on how to prevent such attacks and respond to future bioterrorism threats.” (Boston Examiner; 21Nov08; Sara Michael)
http://www.baltimoreexaminer.com/local/112108emsANTHRAX.html
In disaster drill, King County [WA] tries out temporary hospital
“Seattle & King County and dozens of local groups turned an exhibition hall at Seattle Center into an emergency health-care center. […] The Seattle Center Exhibition Hall — along with the adjacent opera house at McCaw Hall — can hold 250 cots. The site is equipped to provide portable oxygen and IV drips, among other services. That's a fraction of the almost 60,000 King County residents who might have to be hospitalized during a severe influenza pandemic. […] If the virus behind the epidemic of bird flu in Asia and Europe becomes easily transmittable among humans, caring for infected or exposed persons largely ‘will be up to their families,’ said Michael Loehr, manager of emergency preparedness for Public Health.” (Seattle Times; 19Nov08; Kyung M. Song)
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2008408399_emergency19m.html
[General Electric] Global Research to create ‘biotic man’ [NY]
“GE [General Electric] Global Research scientists will spend the next two years making a ‘biotic man’ for the U.S. military, which would deploy the technology to counter biological warfare attacks. […] The technology will also show how those agents respond to new antibiotic and antiviral drug therapies. […] GE will adapt its Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic software tool, which Niskayuna scientists developed in 2005, for the Defense Department’s Defense Threat Reduction Agency. That medical software creates computational models that show a drug’s response in the body before clinical trials. The modified software will be part of the Defense Department’s Transformational Medical Technologies Initiative.” (Daily Gazette; 21Nov08)
http://www.dailygazette.com/news/2008/nov/21/1121_biotic/
PharmAthene [MD] signs deal with Israeli firm to market biodefense drugs
“PharmAthene Inc. has signed a deal with Medison Pharma Ltd. to commercialize its biodefense drugs in Israel. […] PharmAthene will handle manufacturing of the vaccines and treatments, developed to guard against bioterrorism — a threat to Israeli citizens even before the deaths from anthrax exposure that were seen in the U.S. in the days after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. PharmAthene CEO David P. Wright said in a statement the deal with Medison Pharma underscores ‘the importance of procuring next-generation biodefense products to protect [Israel’s] military and civilian populations from the threat of biological and chemical warfare.’” (Bizjournals.com; 19Nov08; Robert J. Terry; Source: Baltimore Business Journal)
http://www.bizjournals.com/baltimore/stories/2008/11/17/daily37.html?brthrs=1
Concerns about chemicals [CA]
“The Transportation Security Administration last week announced new regulations it said would make rail shipments of sensitive chemicals more secure, thereby reducing the risk of toxic gas releases. The new rules will establish protocols to handle and transfer materials such as chlorine and anhydrous ammonia. And this week the Center for American Progress, which describes itself as a nonpartisan research institute, released a report […] [which] contends that the threat of a terrorist attack on one of these plants can be substantially reduced by requiring them to convert to different kinds of chemicals or more secure processes. Nine such plants are identified in California […]. The report says that more than 4.5million people would be in the ‘vulnerability zone’ in a worst-case toxic chemical release.” (Los Angeles Daily Breeze Editorial; 19Nov08)
http://www.dailybreeze.com/ci_11026854
OPCW [Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons] Director-General addresses the Peace and Security Council of the African Union
“The OPCW Director-General, Ambassador Rogelio Pfirter, visited Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on 19 November 2008 to address the Peace and Security Council (PSC) of the African Union (AU) on the status of implementation of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) and the work of the OPCW, and to meet with senior AU officials. In the address to the PSC, Director-General Pfirter expressed deep appreciation for Africa’s strong support for the CWC and his gratitude to African States Parties for their active contribution in advancing the goals of the Convention. Underlining the strong relationship between the OPCW and African countries, he reiterated the commitment of the OPCW to further strengthen cooperation with the AU.”
http://www.opcw.org/news/news/article/opcw-director-general-addresses-the-peace-and-security-council-of-the-african-union-and-meets-the-ch/
United States [NNSA] joins NATO at nuclear emergency response workshop
“The National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) supported an international nuclear emergency response workshop that ended today in Brussels, Belgium. More than 60 representatives from the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), NATO member countries, the European Union, the United States and the former Soviet Union participated. ‘This workshop shows that the world is united in its efforts to combat nuclear terrorism,’ said Joseph Krol, NNSA associate administrator for emergency operations at the exercise.” (National Nuclear Security Administration; 20Nov08)
http://www.nnsa.energy.gov/news/2211.htm
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.
“[…] A special report for Reader's Digest by ProPublica, an independent, nonprofit newsroom that produces investigative journalism in the public interest, suggests [that] despite some $48 billion in federal spending on biodefense—including a new nationwide network of research labs and a $1 billion detection system called BioWatch operating in more than 30 cities-the nation may be just as vulnerable to an attack today as it ever was. Indeed, some biodefense experts warn, we may be less safe. […] Frustrated weapons-proliferation experts complain that biodefense programs are haphazard and disorganized, […] [and] government programs have heightened the level of danger by vastly increasing the number of researchers and labs authorized to handle deadly substances. […] Brian Finlay, a senior associate at the Henry L. Stimson Center, a nonpartisan think tank, puts it bluntly: ‘There's no question that the proliferation of bioresearch is leaving us less secure by the day.’” (Reader’s Digest; 20Nov08; Marcus Stern & Adam Piore) http://www.rd.com/your-america-inspiring-people-and-stories/are-we-safer-since-911-a-special-report-investigates/article106961.html
Georgia launches disaster mental health web site
“The Georgia Department of Human Resources (DHR) is proud to launch a new web site that addresses the effects that natural and man-made disasters can have on citizens’ mental and behavioral health. The Disaster Mental Health web site georgiadisaster.info contains information, recommendations and guidance on how to handle personal and community crisis situations, as well as how to bounce back from a crisis. The web site was developed by the University of West Georgia in collaboration with DHR’s Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Addictive Diseases (MHDDAD) and the Division of Public Health (PH) using federal funds from the Bioterrorism Health Community Preparedness Program.” (Emax Health; 21Nov08; Source: Georgia Department of Human Resources) http://www.emaxhealth.com/2/7/26784/georgia-launches-disaster-mental-health-web-site.html
Boston [MA] launches flu shot tracking
“Using technology originally developed for mass disasters, Boston disease trackers are […] creating a citywide registry of everyone who has had a flu vaccination. The resulting vaccination map would allow swift intervention in neighborhoods left vulnerable to the fast-moving respiratory illness. Infectious disease specialists in Boston and elsewhere predicted that the registry approach could prove even more useful if something more sinister strikes: a bioterrorism attack or the long-feared arrival of a global flu epidemic. In such crises, the registry could be used to track who received a special vaccine or antidote to a deadly germ.” (Boston Globe; 21Nov08; Stephen Smith) http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/articles/2008/11/21/boston_launches_flu_shot_tracking/
Md. lawmakers consider anthrax investigation commission “
U.S. Rep. Elijah Cummings’ Washington, D.C., office was shuttered in 2001 after anthrax spores were found, so he’s ‘very sensitive’ to the investigation into the crime, he said. Now, Cummings said he supports a review of the investigation. U.S. Rep. Rush Holt, D-N.J., proposed legislation in September to create a congressional commission to investigate the attacks and the federal government’s response. ‘Whatever we have to do to get to the bottom of this anthrax issue, we need to do it,’ Cummings said. Holt’s bipartisan commission would mirror the 9/11 commission and make recommendations on how to prevent such attacks and respond to future bioterrorism threats.” (Boston Examiner; 21Nov08; Sara Michael)
http://www.baltimoreexaminer.com/local/112108emsANTHRAX.html
In disaster drill, King County [WA] tries out temporary hospital
“Seattle & King County and dozens of local groups turned an exhibition hall at Seattle Center into an emergency health-care center. […] The Seattle Center Exhibition Hall — along with the adjacent opera house at McCaw Hall — can hold 250 cots. The site is equipped to provide portable oxygen and IV drips, among other services. That's a fraction of the almost 60,000 King County residents who might have to be hospitalized during a severe influenza pandemic. […] If the virus behind the epidemic of bird flu in Asia and Europe becomes easily transmittable among humans, caring for infected or exposed persons largely ‘will be up to their families,’ said Michael Loehr, manager of emergency preparedness for Public Health.” (Seattle Times; 19Nov08; Kyung M. Song)
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2008408399_emergency19m.html
[General Electric] Global Research to create ‘biotic man’ [NY]
“GE [General Electric] Global Research scientists will spend the next two years making a ‘biotic man’ for the U.S. military, which would deploy the technology to counter biological warfare attacks. […] The technology will also show how those agents respond to new antibiotic and antiviral drug therapies. […] GE will adapt its Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic software tool, which Niskayuna scientists developed in 2005, for the Defense Department’s Defense Threat Reduction Agency. That medical software creates computational models that show a drug’s response in the body before clinical trials. The modified software will be part of the Defense Department’s Transformational Medical Technologies Initiative.” (Daily Gazette; 21Nov08)
http://www.dailygazette.com/news/2008/nov/21/1121_biotic/
PharmAthene [MD] signs deal with Israeli firm to market biodefense drugs
“PharmAthene Inc. has signed a deal with Medison Pharma Ltd. to commercialize its biodefense drugs in Israel. […] PharmAthene will handle manufacturing of the vaccines and treatments, developed to guard against bioterrorism — a threat to Israeli citizens even before the deaths from anthrax exposure that were seen in the U.S. in the days after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. PharmAthene CEO David P. Wright said in a statement the deal with Medison Pharma underscores ‘the importance of procuring next-generation biodefense products to protect [Israel’s] military and civilian populations from the threat of biological and chemical warfare.’” (Bizjournals.com; 19Nov08; Robert J. Terry; Source: Baltimore Business Journal)
http://www.bizjournals.com/baltimore/stories/2008/11/17/daily37.html?brthrs=1
Concerns about chemicals [CA]
“The Transportation Security Administration last week announced new regulations it said would make rail shipments of sensitive chemicals more secure, thereby reducing the risk of toxic gas releases. The new rules will establish protocols to handle and transfer materials such as chlorine and anhydrous ammonia. And this week the Center for American Progress, which describes itself as a nonpartisan research institute, released a report […] [which] contends that the threat of a terrorist attack on one of these plants can be substantially reduced by requiring them to convert to different kinds of chemicals or more secure processes. Nine such plants are identified in California […]. The report says that more than 4.5million people would be in the ‘vulnerability zone’ in a worst-case toxic chemical release.” (Los Angeles Daily Breeze Editorial; 19Nov08)
http://www.dailybreeze.com/ci_11026854
OPCW [Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons] Director-General addresses the Peace and Security Council of the African Union
“The OPCW Director-General, Ambassador Rogelio Pfirter, visited Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on 19 November 2008 to address the Peace and Security Council (PSC) of the African Union (AU) on the status of implementation of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) and the work of the OPCW, and to meet with senior AU officials. In the address to the PSC, Director-General Pfirter expressed deep appreciation for Africa’s strong support for the CWC and his gratitude to African States Parties for their active contribution in advancing the goals of the Convention. Underlining the strong relationship between the OPCW and African countries, he reiterated the commitment of the OPCW to further strengthen cooperation with the AU.”
http://www.opcw.org/news/news/article/opcw-director-general-addresses-the-peace-and-security-council-of-the-african-union-and-meets-the-ch/
United States [NNSA] joins NATO at nuclear emergency response workshop
“The National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) supported an international nuclear emergency response workshop that ended today in Brussels, Belgium. More than 60 representatives from the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), NATO member countries, the European Union, the United States and the former Soviet Union participated. ‘This workshop shows that the world is united in its efforts to combat nuclear terrorism,’ said Joseph Krol, NNSA associate administrator for emergency operations at the exercise.” (National Nuclear Security Administration; 20Nov08)
http://www.nnsa.energy.gov/news/2211.htm
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.
Contractor Answers Nation's Call for Mine-Resistant Vehicles
By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service
Nov. 21, 2008 - Conventional military wisdom holds that enemies have a vote in combat. But manufacturers of the mine-resistant, ambush-protected vehicle have worked to disenfranchise them. When the Defense Department in July 2007 requested nearly $1.2 billion from Congress and asked for an influx of MRAPs for troops in Iraq, BAE Systems was one contractor that answered the call, a response that culminated at the facility here this week.
"The question was how many can you build and how fast can you build them?" said Paul Mann, the MRAP joint program manager at BAE, which capped off its end of production with a retrospective feting yesterday.
The MRAP's unique V-shaped hull diffuses blasts away from the vehicle's underbelly, which has proven an effective countermeasure against the roadside bombs that have killed and injured scores of troops since operations began in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Invoking Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates' plea to industry for an additional 2,650 MRAPs, Mann said that when the Defense Department made force protection its No. 1 acquisition priority, it spurred workers here into action.
BAE responded by kicking into high gear, more than doubling its production from about 15 Caiman trucks per day to roughly 35. In total, it has produced more than 5,000 MRAP vehicles -- 2,868 Caimans and 2,182 RG33s -- under Army and Marine Corps contracts over the past 22 months.
"The quality and quantity of your commitment to this mission will never be forgotten by the armed services," Mann told the Sealy plant workers gathered in a facility room for the day's event.
A news report in June cited roadside bomb attacks and fatalities in Iraq as decreasing by almost 90 percent since June 2007, according to Pentagon records and interviews with military leaders.
Dennis M. Dellinger, BAE's president of mobility and protection systems, spoke from an unarmored 5-ton medium tactical vehicle that doubled as a stage in a facility warehouse.
"Today's celebration is about the fact that there are scores of soldiers that will be able to come home in one piece because of the work you've done," he said.
Dellinger said it's "no coincidence" that the MRAP program led to a decline in combat casualties.
"A number of factors went into that, but one certainly was putting the right kind of protection into the vehicles that they traveled around in," he said. "It was an amoeba if you will, in that we kept adjusting as the threat adjusted."
Praising the people involved in the push -- from the concept and design teams, to the manufacturers, testers, and government assessment personnel -- Dellinger said everybody who contributed to the process should be proud.
"[This] was something that probably was not matched anywhere else in military production history since at least World War II," he said of the speed of production that met time and cost requirements.
Chris Chambers, the vice president of medium/heavy vehicles department of mobility and protection systems, described the encouraging track record of the Caiman vehicle, the last of which rolled off the Sealy lot this week.
The vehicle, which holds up to 10 troops, has been targeted in hundreds of attacks -- everything from small-arms fire to smaller roadside bombs -- including significant attacks that involved large makeshift explosives, he said.
"They've done very well," he said of the vehicles' resilience to attacks. "They're very reliable."
Providing an eyewitness account of the Caiman's durability under fire was William Thibaux Jr., an equipment operator who serves as a petty officer 2nd class in the Navy Reserve. While serving in Iraq last year, Thibaux said, he saw the effects on a convoy of Marine MRAPs hit by a makeshift bomb.
"Of the seven that were in that vehicle, only one walked away with a broken leg," he recalled. "If you would have seen the vehicle, you would have thought everyone would have died, ... but everyone survived."
Besides its contribution to force protection, BAE has other ties to the military. It is a recipient of the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve award, a Defense Department honor that highlights employers who convey exceptional levels of support to National Guard and Reserve forces on their payrolls.
The company also employs retired servicemembers like Bob German, an inventory control supervisor here. German, a retired Marine Corps corporal, has a son who recently enlisted in the Army and is likely to deploy within the next year, he said.
"Knowing that lives actually do depend on the vehicles we build here, and that we are actually saving lives, is phenomenal," German said. "I get a knot in my throat every time I think about it. You never know if the vehicle we build could be carrying my son or friends of my son's or kids I watched grow up."
American Forces Press Service
Nov. 21, 2008 - Conventional military wisdom holds that enemies have a vote in combat. But manufacturers of the mine-resistant, ambush-protected vehicle have worked to disenfranchise them. When the Defense Department in July 2007 requested nearly $1.2 billion from Congress and asked for an influx of MRAPs for troops in Iraq, BAE Systems was one contractor that answered the call, a response that culminated at the facility here this week.
"The question was how many can you build and how fast can you build them?" said Paul Mann, the MRAP joint program manager at BAE, which capped off its end of production with a retrospective feting yesterday.
The MRAP's unique V-shaped hull diffuses blasts away from the vehicle's underbelly, which has proven an effective countermeasure against the roadside bombs that have killed and injured scores of troops since operations began in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Invoking Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates' plea to industry for an additional 2,650 MRAPs, Mann said that when the Defense Department made force protection its No. 1 acquisition priority, it spurred workers here into action.
BAE responded by kicking into high gear, more than doubling its production from about 15 Caiman trucks per day to roughly 35. In total, it has produced more than 5,000 MRAP vehicles -- 2,868 Caimans and 2,182 RG33s -- under Army and Marine Corps contracts over the past 22 months.
"The quality and quantity of your commitment to this mission will never be forgotten by the armed services," Mann told the Sealy plant workers gathered in a facility room for the day's event.
A news report in June cited roadside bomb attacks and fatalities in Iraq as decreasing by almost 90 percent since June 2007, according to Pentagon records and interviews with military leaders.
Dennis M. Dellinger, BAE's president of mobility and protection systems, spoke from an unarmored 5-ton medium tactical vehicle that doubled as a stage in a facility warehouse.
"Today's celebration is about the fact that there are scores of soldiers that will be able to come home in one piece because of the work you've done," he said.
Dellinger said it's "no coincidence" that the MRAP program led to a decline in combat casualties.
"A number of factors went into that, but one certainly was putting the right kind of protection into the vehicles that they traveled around in," he said. "It was an amoeba if you will, in that we kept adjusting as the threat adjusted."
Praising the people involved in the push -- from the concept and design teams, to the manufacturers, testers, and government assessment personnel -- Dellinger said everybody who contributed to the process should be proud.
"[This] was something that probably was not matched anywhere else in military production history since at least World War II," he said of the speed of production that met time and cost requirements.
Chris Chambers, the vice president of medium/heavy vehicles department of mobility and protection systems, described the encouraging track record of the Caiman vehicle, the last of which rolled off the Sealy lot this week.
The vehicle, which holds up to 10 troops, has been targeted in hundreds of attacks -- everything from small-arms fire to smaller roadside bombs -- including significant attacks that involved large makeshift explosives, he said.
"They've done very well," he said of the vehicles' resilience to attacks. "They're very reliable."
Providing an eyewitness account of the Caiman's durability under fire was William Thibaux Jr., an equipment operator who serves as a petty officer 2nd class in the Navy Reserve. While serving in Iraq last year, Thibaux said, he saw the effects on a convoy of Marine MRAPs hit by a makeshift bomb.
"Of the seven that were in that vehicle, only one walked away with a broken leg," he recalled. "If you would have seen the vehicle, you would have thought everyone would have died, ... but everyone survived."
Besides its contribution to force protection, BAE has other ties to the military. It is a recipient of the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve award, a Defense Department honor that highlights employers who convey exceptional levels of support to National Guard and Reserve forces on their payrolls.
The company also employs retired servicemembers like Bob German, an inventory control supervisor here. German, a retired Marine Corps corporal, has a son who recently enlisted in the Army and is likely to deploy within the next year, he said.
"Knowing that lives actually do depend on the vehicles we build here, and that we are actually saving lives, is phenomenal," German said. "I get a knot in my throat every time I think about it. You never know if the vehicle we build could be carrying my son or friends of my son's or kids I watched grow up."
Coalition Kills Suspected Terrorist, Captures 17
American Forces Press Service
Nov. 21, 2008 - Coalition and Iraqi forces killed a suspected terrorist, captured 17 others and seized dozens of weapons in Iraq in the past week, military officials said. Coalition troops detained 14 suspected terrorists, including three wanted men, today and yesterday while targeting the al-Qaida in Iraq network.
During operations west of Baghdad today, forces captured two suspected terrorists with alleged connections to al-Qaida in Iraq leaders in Anbar province. Five others also were detained.
Also today, forces targeting a suicide bomber in Baghdad detained one suspect. Elsewhere, forces captured a suspected terrorist with alleged connections to al-Qaida in Iraq bombing cells in Tikrit, north of Baghdad.
Yesterday in Kirkuk, forces captured a suspected terrorist with alleged connections to al-Qaida leaders in Tamim province, along with four others.
In another operation, Iraqi special operations forces came under fire Nov. 19 in Diwaniya while targeting suspected terrorists. They returned fire, killing the gunman, and arrested three others.
In other operations in Iraq:
-- Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers found a weapons cache in Baghdad yesterday containing 22 57 mm rounds. They also found a buried cache in Taji later that day with grenades and 5.56 and 7.56 mm rounds.
-- Iraqi forces seized a weapons cache yesterday in Salahuddin province that contained more than 215 munitions, including mortar and antiaircraft rounds, rockets and other explosives.
-- Northwest of Baghdad, Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers found a weapons cache that included three 122 mm high-explosive rounds Nov. 19.
-- A tip from a local resident led Iraqi police and coalition troops to a cache of mortar and artillery rounds Nov. 19 in Samarra.
-- Iraqi soldiers seized a weapons cache that included 130 mm rounds and 155 mm artillery rounds in the Lutifiyah area Nov. 18.
(Compiled from Multinational Force Iraq and Multinational Corps Iraq news releases.)
Nov. 21, 2008 - Coalition and Iraqi forces killed a suspected terrorist, captured 17 others and seized dozens of weapons in Iraq in the past week, military officials said. Coalition troops detained 14 suspected terrorists, including three wanted men, today and yesterday while targeting the al-Qaida in Iraq network.
During operations west of Baghdad today, forces captured two suspected terrorists with alleged connections to al-Qaida in Iraq leaders in Anbar province. Five others also were detained.
Also today, forces targeting a suicide bomber in Baghdad detained one suspect. Elsewhere, forces captured a suspected terrorist with alleged connections to al-Qaida in Iraq bombing cells in Tikrit, north of Baghdad.
Yesterday in Kirkuk, forces captured a suspected terrorist with alleged connections to al-Qaida leaders in Tamim province, along with four others.
In another operation, Iraqi special operations forces came under fire Nov. 19 in Diwaniya while targeting suspected terrorists. They returned fire, killing the gunman, and arrested three others.
In other operations in Iraq:
-- Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers found a weapons cache in Baghdad yesterday containing 22 57 mm rounds. They also found a buried cache in Taji later that day with grenades and 5.56 and 7.56 mm rounds.
-- Iraqi forces seized a weapons cache yesterday in Salahuddin province that contained more than 215 munitions, including mortar and antiaircraft rounds, rockets and other explosives.
-- Northwest of Baghdad, Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers found a weapons cache that included three 122 mm high-explosive rounds Nov. 19.
-- A tip from a local resident led Iraqi police and coalition troops to a cache of mortar and artillery rounds Nov. 19 in Samarra.
-- Iraqi soldiers seized a weapons cache that included 130 mm rounds and 155 mm artillery rounds in the Lutifiyah area Nov. 18.
(Compiled from Multinational Force Iraq and Multinational Corps Iraq news releases.)
Marine Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Gunnery Sgt. Marcelo R. Velasco, 40, of Miami, died Nov. 19 from injuries sustained in a non-hostile incident in Anbar province, Iraq. He was assigned to I Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, I MEF, Camp Pendleton, Calif.
The incident is currently under investigation.
For additional background information on this Marine, news media representatives may contact the Marine Forces Reserve public affairs office at (504) 235-6128.
Gunnery Sgt. Marcelo R. Velasco, 40, of Miami, died Nov. 19 from injuries sustained in a non-hostile incident in Anbar province, Iraq. He was assigned to I Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group, I MEF, Camp Pendleton, Calif.
The incident is currently under investigation.
For additional background information on this Marine, news media representatives may contact the Marine Forces Reserve public affairs office at (504) 235-6128.
Combined Forces Kill Insurgents, Save Civilians in Afghanistan
American Forces Press Service
Nov. 21, 2008 - Afghan army commandos and their coalition partners killed four militants while simultaneously protecting nearly 90 civilians in an early morning operation today in western Afghanistan, military officials reported. The combined forces were conducting a raid on a compound, targeting a Taliban commander in Farah province's Dowlatabad village when they received fire from several enemy fighting positions. The combined forces quickly returned fire and also established a security perimeter to protect the civilians, who included 30 children, officials said.
The exchange of fire resulted in the deaths of four enemy fighters who local residents confirmed were Taliban militants.
During the search for more militants, commandos discovered a fully operational explosive device in a local mosque. Commandos removed the bomb and destroyed it. The detonation caused minor damage to the mosque's exterior wall, for which the commandos provided compensation to village elders. The operation also uncovered numerous small arms weapons and bomb-making materials.
No Afghan, coalition or civilian casualties resulted from the operation, officials said.
In other news from Afghanistan, Afghan and coalition forces killed 10 militants near Highway 1 in the Nahr Surkh district of Helmand province yesterday. The forces were conducting a security patrol when they were attacked by militants with small-arms and machine-gun fire. They returned fire, killing the 10 militants.
During the engagement, an Afghan soldier was shot in the back. He was treated on site and transported to a nearby Coalition medical facility. No other Afghan or coalition forces or civilians were injured during the engagement, officials said.
Also yesterday, Afghan and coalition forces killed four armed militants and detained eight others yesterday during an operation in Kapisa province in which an Afghan woman and child were injured when the insurgents used them as human shields, officials said.
In the Tagab district, coalition forces provided medical care to the Afghan woman and child, whom the forces believe lived with the militants. The two were injured when one of the militants detonated a hand grenade. They are recovering at a military hospital, officials said.
The operation targeted the Hizb-e-Islami Gulbuddin terrorist network, which is known to plan and coordinate attacks against civilians and coalition forces, including an attack in August that killed 10 French soldiers, officials said.
As the force attempted to search the compound, they received a large volume of small-arms fire and hand grenades from militants barricaded in a section of the compound. Coalition forces responded with small-arms fire and killed them.
A search of the compound revealed multiple AK-47 assault rifles, hand grenades and other military equipment, which were destroyed to prevent future use. The force detained three suspected militants as a result of the operation.
In Khowst province, Afghan and coalition forces captured a targeted Haqqani terrorist network operative and five other suspects during a combined operation in the Mandozai district. The wanted man is a suspect in roadside and suicide bombings, officials said. Troops searched the compound without incident.
(Compiled from U.S. Forces Afghanistan news releases.)
Nov. 21, 2008 - Afghan army commandos and their coalition partners killed four militants while simultaneously protecting nearly 90 civilians in an early morning operation today in western Afghanistan, military officials reported. The combined forces were conducting a raid on a compound, targeting a Taliban commander in Farah province's Dowlatabad village when they received fire from several enemy fighting positions. The combined forces quickly returned fire and also established a security perimeter to protect the civilians, who included 30 children, officials said.
The exchange of fire resulted in the deaths of four enemy fighters who local residents confirmed were Taliban militants.
During the search for more militants, commandos discovered a fully operational explosive device in a local mosque. Commandos removed the bomb and destroyed it. The detonation caused minor damage to the mosque's exterior wall, for which the commandos provided compensation to village elders. The operation also uncovered numerous small arms weapons and bomb-making materials.
No Afghan, coalition or civilian casualties resulted from the operation, officials said.
In other news from Afghanistan, Afghan and coalition forces killed 10 militants near Highway 1 in the Nahr Surkh district of Helmand province yesterday. The forces were conducting a security patrol when they were attacked by militants with small-arms and machine-gun fire. They returned fire, killing the 10 militants.
During the engagement, an Afghan soldier was shot in the back. He was treated on site and transported to a nearby Coalition medical facility. No other Afghan or coalition forces or civilians were injured during the engagement, officials said.
Also yesterday, Afghan and coalition forces killed four armed militants and detained eight others yesterday during an operation in Kapisa province in which an Afghan woman and child were injured when the insurgents used them as human shields, officials said.
In the Tagab district, coalition forces provided medical care to the Afghan woman and child, whom the forces believe lived with the militants. The two were injured when one of the militants detonated a hand grenade. They are recovering at a military hospital, officials said.
The operation targeted the Hizb-e-Islami Gulbuddin terrorist network, which is known to plan and coordinate attacks against civilians and coalition forces, including an attack in August that killed 10 French soldiers, officials said.
As the force attempted to search the compound, they received a large volume of small-arms fire and hand grenades from militants barricaded in a section of the compound. Coalition forces responded with small-arms fire and killed them.
A search of the compound revealed multiple AK-47 assault rifles, hand grenades and other military equipment, which were destroyed to prevent future use. The force detained three suspected militants as a result of the operation.
In Khowst province, Afghan and coalition forces captured a targeted Haqqani terrorist network operative and five other suspects during a combined operation in the Mandozai district. The wanted man is a suspect in roadside and suicide bombings, officials said. Troops searched the compound without incident.
(Compiled from U.S. Forces Afghanistan news releases.)
Gates Optimistic Troop Surge Will Ensure Smooth Afghan Election
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
Nov. 21, 2008 - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates expressed confidence today that more troops being sent to Afghanistan's Regional Command South will be sufficient to shore up security for Afghanistan's elections in late September. Gates, speaking at a joint conference with his counterparts whose countries provide 90 percent of the troops to RC-South, declared a successful presidential election one of the most important objectives in Afghanistan in the upcoming year.
The secretary spent the day here at a former Canadian military base conferring with defense ministers from Canada, Australia, Denmark, Estonia, the Netherlands, Romania and the United Kingdom about the situation in Afghanistan.
Topics covered a broad range of issues, including a shared interest in "surging as many forces as we can" to provide security for the elections, Gates told reporters. "All of us agree that one of our most important, and maybe the most important, objective for us in 2009 in Afghanistan is a successful election," Gates said.
The secretary described U.S. plans to increase its troop commitment, currently about 31,000, with just under half assigned to the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force.
A heavy battalion of about 1,800 Marines, many of them from 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, has already deployed, he said. In addition, the U.S. Army 10th Mountain Division's 3rd Brigade Combat Team will start arriving in Afghanistan in January for duty in Regional Command East.
No decisions have yet been made about the timetable for providing the three additional brigade combat teams and aviation assets requested by ISAF Commander Army Gen. David McKiernan. However, Gates said he expects at least some of those troops, once committed, to be sent to southern Afghanistan.
"We would like to get some of those additional brigade combat teams into Afghanistan before the election so they can make a contribution to greater security," he said. "But we are still working on that and we have not made any final decisions about the timing."
Decisions also need to be reached about "how they can best reinforce our allies who are already in some of these provinces [and] how they will interface with and work with the Afghan forces," he said.
Another factor, he said, is how these troops will merge their efforts with civil efforts already under way.
As those details are worked out, Gates expressed confidence that the forces will be in place to ensure a smooth election.
"I think that the prospects for being able to have these elections successfully are good," he said. "I think that the security situation will be under enough control to allow the election to take place."
Gates called the 20,000-troop increase in Afghanistan over the past 18 months by the United States and its allies and partners an important step in confronting what he conceded are "some significant challenges."
Insurgents have found a sanctuary in the western border area, and new actors have joined the effort over the past two years, causing violence to spike, he said.
But Gates emphasized that the situation in Afghanistan isn't nearly as bad as some characterize it. The Taliban holds no land in Afghanistan, and loses every time it comes into contact with coalition forces, he said. "And so the notion that things are out of control in Afghanistan or that we are sliding toward a disaster, I think, is far too pessimistic," he said.
As ISAF beefs up its numbers, Gates said it will be watching the Afghans to ensure they're moving forward as well. "We all recognize the need for the Afghan government, with our help, to demonstrate some progress over the course of 2009," he said.
"We need to remember that this is Afghanistan's war against a threat to a freely elected Afghan government," he told reporters on the return flight to Washington. "We are there to help them take on that threat. This is not our war, necessarily."
While the United States doesn't want the Taliban, al Qaeda or other insurgents to regain a foothold in Afghanistan, "at the end of the day, it has got to be Afghanistan's war for its own people," Gates said.
"So I think the key is, 'How do we reverse the trends in the last couple years or so, in terms of rising violence, and create a better security environment in which economic development [and] civic development can take place?'" he said.
Canadian Defense Minister Peter MacKay, who hosted the meeting, said the increased troop presence in the volatile RC-South region will have a big impact on reconstruction and development efforts.
Asked directly if the U.S. surge means Canada will be able to accelerate its own troop drawdown in Afghanistan, MacKay gave an unqualified "no."
"This is about reinforcement, not replacement," he said. "This is about continuing in a joint UN-backed, NATO-led effort."
MacKay reiterated the call for more nations to contribute to the mission, emphasizing that those supporting RC-South are carrying "a disproportionate share of the load" there. He encouraged other NATO countries to "examine their ability to do more," whether providing troops on the ground, equipment support, or help with development programs.
"Other countries should be under no illusion," MacKay said. "We are still asking for them to pick up the slack and share the burden."
American Forces Press Service
Nov. 21, 2008 - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates expressed confidence today that more troops being sent to Afghanistan's Regional Command South will be sufficient to shore up security for Afghanistan's elections in late September. Gates, speaking at a joint conference with his counterparts whose countries provide 90 percent of the troops to RC-South, declared a successful presidential election one of the most important objectives in Afghanistan in the upcoming year.
The secretary spent the day here at a former Canadian military base conferring with defense ministers from Canada, Australia, Denmark, Estonia, the Netherlands, Romania and the United Kingdom about the situation in Afghanistan.
Topics covered a broad range of issues, including a shared interest in "surging as many forces as we can" to provide security for the elections, Gates told reporters. "All of us agree that one of our most important, and maybe the most important, objective for us in 2009 in Afghanistan is a successful election," Gates said.
The secretary described U.S. plans to increase its troop commitment, currently about 31,000, with just under half assigned to the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force.
A heavy battalion of about 1,800 Marines, many of them from 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, has already deployed, he said. In addition, the U.S. Army 10th Mountain Division's 3rd Brigade Combat Team will start arriving in Afghanistan in January for duty in Regional Command East.
No decisions have yet been made about the timetable for providing the three additional brigade combat teams and aviation assets requested by ISAF Commander Army Gen. David McKiernan. However, Gates said he expects at least some of those troops, once committed, to be sent to southern Afghanistan.
"We would like to get some of those additional brigade combat teams into Afghanistan before the election so they can make a contribution to greater security," he said. "But we are still working on that and we have not made any final decisions about the timing."
Decisions also need to be reached about "how they can best reinforce our allies who are already in some of these provinces [and] how they will interface with and work with the Afghan forces," he said.
Another factor, he said, is how these troops will merge their efforts with civil efforts already under way.
As those details are worked out, Gates expressed confidence that the forces will be in place to ensure a smooth election.
"I think that the prospects for being able to have these elections successfully are good," he said. "I think that the security situation will be under enough control to allow the election to take place."
Gates called the 20,000-troop increase in Afghanistan over the past 18 months by the United States and its allies and partners an important step in confronting what he conceded are "some significant challenges."
Insurgents have found a sanctuary in the western border area, and new actors have joined the effort over the past two years, causing violence to spike, he said.
But Gates emphasized that the situation in Afghanistan isn't nearly as bad as some characterize it. The Taliban holds no land in Afghanistan, and loses every time it comes into contact with coalition forces, he said. "And so the notion that things are out of control in Afghanistan or that we are sliding toward a disaster, I think, is far too pessimistic," he said.
As ISAF beefs up its numbers, Gates said it will be watching the Afghans to ensure they're moving forward as well. "We all recognize the need for the Afghan government, with our help, to demonstrate some progress over the course of 2009," he said.
"We need to remember that this is Afghanistan's war against a threat to a freely elected Afghan government," he told reporters on the return flight to Washington. "We are there to help them take on that threat. This is not our war, necessarily."
While the United States doesn't want the Taliban, al Qaeda or other insurgents to regain a foothold in Afghanistan, "at the end of the day, it has got to be Afghanistan's war for its own people," Gates said.
"So I think the key is, 'How do we reverse the trends in the last couple years or so, in terms of rising violence, and create a better security environment in which economic development [and] civic development can take place?'" he said.
Canadian Defense Minister Peter MacKay, who hosted the meeting, said the increased troop presence in the volatile RC-South region will have a big impact on reconstruction and development efforts.
Asked directly if the U.S. surge means Canada will be able to accelerate its own troop drawdown in Afghanistan, MacKay gave an unqualified "no."
"This is about reinforcement, not replacement," he said. "This is about continuing in a joint UN-backed, NATO-led effort."
MacKay reiterated the call for more nations to contribute to the mission, emphasizing that those supporting RC-South are carrying "a disproportionate share of the load" there. He encouraged other NATO countries to "examine their ability to do more," whether providing troops on the ground, equipment support, or help with development programs.
"Other countries should be under no illusion," MacKay said. "We are still asking for them to pick up the slack and share the burden."
'Guard Farmers' Join Counterinsurgency Fight in Afghanistan
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service
Nov. 21, 2008 - The National Guard is taking a biblical verse to heart: "They will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks." Commanders in Afghanistan are looking forward to the deployment of two agri-business development teams next year. The teams – one from Indiana and one from Tennessee – are made up of National Guardsmen with farming backgrounds. They will serve a year in Afghanistan advising local governments and people on agricultural practices.
An agri-business development team from Texas already is working in Afghanistan's Ghazni province.
"The focus of all we do is the Afghan people, and our intent in everything we do is to separate the people physically and psychologically from the enemy," said Army Col. John P. Johnson, commander of Combined Task Force Currahee. The unit is built around the 4th Brigade Combat Team of the 101st Airborne Division from Fort Campbell, Ky.
The task force has responsibility for 2.3 million people in Wardak, Logar, Paktia, Khowst and Paktika provinces in Regional Command East. The vast majority of the people in the region are farmers or herders, and agricultural expertise will help them improve their quality of life.
"We try to connect with the legitimate government and the Afghan security forces with the people," Johnson said.
About 80 Guard members make up each team. The military has no occupational specialty for farmers, so the members can be any specialty or branch. They are included in the unit solely for their civilian expertise, National Guard Bureau officials said.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has some specialists in provincial reconstruction teams, but not many at other levels of command. The "soft power" these teams represent can help Afghanistan for the long run, Johnson said.
"We cannot succeed here with military power alone," he said.
It is critical to follow military power with rebuilding and construction funds, Johnson said. "We're really excited about getting these two agri-business development teams in our area of operations," he said.
The teams bring expertise in hydrology, dairy farming, chicken farming, soil conservation, pest management and agricultural business practices. The people in the provinces are subsistence farmers, but there is potential to build the agricultural capacity, Johnson said.
The teams will have support from agricultural universities in the United States. The Indiana team is undergoing refresher training at Purdue University.
"They will have an entire system that allows them to increase production and take advantage of all the potential that is here," the colonel said.
For example, wheat that farmers grow in Khowst is delivered to Pakistan for milling. The Pakistanis ship it back to Afghanistan for sale. With help from the teams, Afghans may be able to start their own milling plants.
"Teams will assist the farmers to build entire agricultural systems and allow them to take full advantage of all the agricultural potential resident here," Johnson said.
American Forces Press Service
Nov. 21, 2008 - The National Guard is taking a biblical verse to heart: "They will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks." Commanders in Afghanistan are looking forward to the deployment of two agri-business development teams next year. The teams – one from Indiana and one from Tennessee – are made up of National Guardsmen with farming backgrounds. They will serve a year in Afghanistan advising local governments and people on agricultural practices.
An agri-business development team from Texas already is working in Afghanistan's Ghazni province.
"The focus of all we do is the Afghan people, and our intent in everything we do is to separate the people physically and psychologically from the enemy," said Army Col. John P. Johnson, commander of Combined Task Force Currahee. The unit is built around the 4th Brigade Combat Team of the 101st Airborne Division from Fort Campbell, Ky.
The task force has responsibility for 2.3 million people in Wardak, Logar, Paktia, Khowst and Paktika provinces in Regional Command East. The vast majority of the people in the region are farmers or herders, and agricultural expertise will help them improve their quality of life.
"We try to connect with the legitimate government and the Afghan security forces with the people," Johnson said.
About 80 Guard members make up each team. The military has no occupational specialty for farmers, so the members can be any specialty or branch. They are included in the unit solely for their civilian expertise, National Guard Bureau officials said.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has some specialists in provincial reconstruction teams, but not many at other levels of command. The "soft power" these teams represent can help Afghanistan for the long run, Johnson said.
"We cannot succeed here with military power alone," he said.
It is critical to follow military power with rebuilding and construction funds, Johnson said. "We're really excited about getting these two agri-business development teams in our area of operations," he said.
The teams bring expertise in hydrology, dairy farming, chicken farming, soil conservation, pest management and agricultural business practices. The people in the provinces are subsistence farmers, but there is potential to build the agricultural capacity, Johnson said.
The teams will have support from agricultural universities in the United States. The Indiana team is undergoing refresher training at Purdue University.
"They will have an entire system that allows them to increase production and take advantage of all the potential that is here," the colonel said.
For example, wheat that farmers grow in Khowst is delivered to Pakistan for milling. The Pakistanis ship it back to Afghanistan for sale. With help from the teams, Afghans may be able to start their own milling plants.
"Teams will assist the farmers to build entire agricultural systems and allow them to take full advantage of all the agricultural potential resident here," Johnson said.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Gates to Meet With Allies, Discuss Afghanistan Mission
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
Nov. 20, 2008 - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates arrived here today to encourage a more regional approach to the mission in Afghanistan's Regional Command South during a two-day meeting of defense ministers from nations contributing the lion's share of forces there. The meeting, at Canadian Forces Base Greenwood, will provide an opportunity for the eight ministers to focus on the situation in Regional Command South and their strategy for stabilizing that volatile area, Pentagon Press Secretary Geoff Morrell told reporters yesterday.
In addition to the United States and Canada, the participants represent Australia, Denmark, Estonia, the Netherlands, Romania and the United Kingdom. Collectively, they contribute about 90 percent of RC-South's approximately 18,000 troops.
The ministers last met in June in Brussels, Belgium.
Five sessions during the next two days will focus on two main themes: generating a regional instead of a provincial approach in RC-South and increasing support for the Afghan national security forces, a senior defense official traveling with Gates told reporters.
In addition to asking for contributions to a trust find to sustain the security forces, Gates is expected to reiterate his request for more embedded trainers, the official said.
"All of the countries with troops in RC-South are truly engaged in the fight," the official said. "And I think the secretary welcomes the chance to sit down with them and talk to them about their observations.
"We think this is a real opportunity to regionalize the approach to RC-South," he said. "The mechanics of how we are set up is obviously very provincial," citing initiatives to expand that focus to the entire region.
That's critical, he said, because tackling the effort on a province-by-province basis simply doesn't work against an enemy that doesn't recognize or respect those borders.
Working together regionally will make RC-South more effective in countering weapons and drug trafficking and enemy movements. The regional approach will also promote civil-military coordination that Gates considers key to success in Afghanistan, the official said.
The agenda will also includes discussions on RC-South's evolution and what other changes may be needed as well as challenges along the Pakistan border area, although counternarcotics initiatives also are likely to be raised, he said.
Yesterday, Morrell called this week's session particularly important since the Dutch assumed command of the region Nov. 1. International Security Assistance Force Commander Gen. David McKiernan presided over the ceremony in which Canadian Maj. Gen. Marc Lessard passed command responsibility to Dutch Maj. Gen. Mart de Kruif.
The change of command marked the beginning of 12-month commands in RC-South.
During the change of command ceremony, Lessard noted the challenges ISAF faces in the region. "While the enemy facing us is resilient, ruthless and has little concern for the civilian population, there can be no doubt that the common determination and perseverance demonstrated by the [Afghan government], [Afghan National Security Forces] and ISAF will ensure that we will continue achieving progress and success for the people of Afghanistan," he said.
Also at the ceremony, DeKruif expressed confidence as Afghan security forces increase in numbers and capabilities and more coalition forces deploy into Afghanistan.
"I am very proud to command such fine men and women from different countries and cultures but united in their devotion to the operation," he said. "It is their professionalism, courage, endeavour and determination, which, together with our Afghan partners, will bring success."
This week's session comes just days after McKiernan lamented the shortage of coalition troops in Helmand and Kandahar provinces in southern Afghanistan.
"Quite frankly, we do not have enough military forces there – international, Afghan army, Afghan police, border police – to have sufficient presence in southern Afghanistan to provide for adequate security for the people," McKiernan said at the Atlantic Council of the United States' Commanders Series.
McKiernan expressed hope that additional U.S. forces on the way would help fill this gap. "We have an additional infantry brigade that's been committed to Afghanistan and will be there in January," he said. "In addition to that, I've asked for, over time, three additional ground brigades and other enablers, to include aviation and [intelligence, reconnaissance and surveillance] and logistics and so forth."
McKiernan said he was "cautiously optimistic" about increasing coordination among coalition forces, Afghan national forces and Pakistanti forces in counterinsurgency efforts and outlined a three-part formula for defining success in Afghanistan. These, he said, include a sense of security and freedom of movement for Afghan civilians, a trustworthy government without corruption and the start of progress in developmental standards for the future.
Calling himself a "glass is half-full commander in Afghanistan," McKiernan said progress is taking place on all three fronts, but not as quickly as hoped. "The people in Afghanistan do not feel secure in many areas in the south and the east. They don't feel like they have freedom of movement. They are dissatisfied with their government," he said.
"But on the other hand, the vast majority of the people in Afghanistan do not support the Taliban, they do not wish the Taliban to re-emerge in power in Afghanistan. And they accept the presence of foreign forces on their soil to help fight for their security.... So the glass is half-full."
American Forces Press Service
Nov. 20, 2008 - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates arrived here today to encourage a more regional approach to the mission in Afghanistan's Regional Command South during a two-day meeting of defense ministers from nations contributing the lion's share of forces there. The meeting, at Canadian Forces Base Greenwood, will provide an opportunity for the eight ministers to focus on the situation in Regional Command South and their strategy for stabilizing that volatile area, Pentagon Press Secretary Geoff Morrell told reporters yesterday.
In addition to the United States and Canada, the participants represent Australia, Denmark, Estonia, the Netherlands, Romania and the United Kingdom. Collectively, they contribute about 90 percent of RC-South's approximately 18,000 troops.
The ministers last met in June in Brussels, Belgium.
Five sessions during the next two days will focus on two main themes: generating a regional instead of a provincial approach in RC-South and increasing support for the Afghan national security forces, a senior defense official traveling with Gates told reporters.
In addition to asking for contributions to a trust find to sustain the security forces, Gates is expected to reiterate his request for more embedded trainers, the official said.
"All of the countries with troops in RC-South are truly engaged in the fight," the official said. "And I think the secretary welcomes the chance to sit down with them and talk to them about their observations.
"We think this is a real opportunity to regionalize the approach to RC-South," he said. "The mechanics of how we are set up is obviously very provincial," citing initiatives to expand that focus to the entire region.
That's critical, he said, because tackling the effort on a province-by-province basis simply doesn't work against an enemy that doesn't recognize or respect those borders.
Working together regionally will make RC-South more effective in countering weapons and drug trafficking and enemy movements. The regional approach will also promote civil-military coordination that Gates considers key to success in Afghanistan, the official said.
The agenda will also includes discussions on RC-South's evolution and what other changes may be needed as well as challenges along the Pakistan border area, although counternarcotics initiatives also are likely to be raised, he said.
Yesterday, Morrell called this week's session particularly important since the Dutch assumed command of the region Nov. 1. International Security Assistance Force Commander Gen. David McKiernan presided over the ceremony in which Canadian Maj. Gen. Marc Lessard passed command responsibility to Dutch Maj. Gen. Mart de Kruif.
The change of command marked the beginning of 12-month commands in RC-South.
During the change of command ceremony, Lessard noted the challenges ISAF faces in the region. "While the enemy facing us is resilient, ruthless and has little concern for the civilian population, there can be no doubt that the common determination and perseverance demonstrated by the [Afghan government], [Afghan National Security Forces] and ISAF will ensure that we will continue achieving progress and success for the people of Afghanistan," he said.
Also at the ceremony, DeKruif expressed confidence as Afghan security forces increase in numbers and capabilities and more coalition forces deploy into Afghanistan.
"I am very proud to command such fine men and women from different countries and cultures but united in their devotion to the operation," he said. "It is their professionalism, courage, endeavour and determination, which, together with our Afghan partners, will bring success."
This week's session comes just days after McKiernan lamented the shortage of coalition troops in Helmand and Kandahar provinces in southern Afghanistan.
"Quite frankly, we do not have enough military forces there – international, Afghan army, Afghan police, border police – to have sufficient presence in southern Afghanistan to provide for adequate security for the people," McKiernan said at the Atlantic Council of the United States' Commanders Series.
McKiernan expressed hope that additional U.S. forces on the way would help fill this gap. "We have an additional infantry brigade that's been committed to Afghanistan and will be there in January," he said. "In addition to that, I've asked for, over time, three additional ground brigades and other enablers, to include aviation and [intelligence, reconnaissance and surveillance] and logistics and so forth."
McKiernan said he was "cautiously optimistic" about increasing coordination among coalition forces, Afghan national forces and Pakistanti forces in counterinsurgency efforts and outlined a three-part formula for defining success in Afghanistan. These, he said, include a sense of security and freedom of movement for Afghan civilians, a trustworthy government without corruption and the start of progress in developmental standards for the future.
Calling himself a "glass is half-full commander in Afghanistan," McKiernan said progress is taking place on all three fronts, but not as quickly as hoped. "The people in Afghanistan do not feel secure in many areas in the south and the east. They don't feel like they have freedom of movement. They are dissatisfied with their government," he said.
"But on the other hand, the vast majority of the people in Afghanistan do not support the Taliban, they do not wish the Taliban to re-emerge in power in Afghanistan. And they accept the presence of foreign forces on their soil to help fight for their security.... So the glass is half-full."
Soldiers Train Iraqi Bomb Disposal Technicians
By Army Sgt. David Hodge
Special to American Forces Press Service
Nov. 20, 2008 - Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers conducted explosive ordnance training with Iraqi security forces bomb disposal technicians Nov. 16 at this base in southern Baghdad. Soldiers and leaders from the 752nd Explosive Ordnance Disposal Company, attached to the 4th Infantry Division's 1st Special Troops Battalion, 1st Brigade Combat Team, detonated a van full of munitions to train soldiers from the 9th Iraqi Army Bomb Disposal Company on the proper techniques for effective post-blast site exploitation.
"I think this training is important for the Iraqi EOD, because it gives them a chance to see how we operate," said Army Staff Sgt. Stephen Cunningham, a team leader assigned to the 752nd EOD Company.
The soldiers packed the van with about 200 pounds of military-grade munitions to properly depict a real-world scenario.
The Iraqi technicians have plenty of robots, and their bomb suits and knowledge are up to date, Cunningham said. "They know what they're dealing with," he added, "especially when it comes to conventional ordnance."
The training keeps the Iraqi soldiers on their toes and contributes to the fight in the long run, said Army Spc. Curtis Garner, an EOD specialist assigned to the 752nd EOD Company.
"They seem really responsive, and they have a good grasp on what they are doing for their country," Garner said. "We just offer them a different avenue, outlook or thought process."
Garner said he believes the Iraqi team leaders are competent and capable enough to introduce new concepts previously not practiced by their bomb squad.
"In the beginning, we received good training and knowledge from our friends," said Lt. Col. Neve Rathwan Risa, commander of the 9th Iraqi Army Division Bomb Disposal Company. "They have good experience, and hopefully we will develop ourselves to deal with the improvised explosive devices."
Risa said he stresses the importance of knowledge and training to his soldiers and that he believes the exercise was a good opportunity for Iraqi bomb disposal technicians to train with coalition forces.
"It's very important to have this kind of branch in the new [Iraqi Army] to deal with all the roadside bombs and to disarm any explosive devices and make the roads safe for the people and the army," Risa explained.
The team is one of the leading bomb disposal companies in the Iraqi army, Army 1st Lt. Brad Lewis, an EOD technician assigned to the 752nd EOD Company, said.
"These guys played a big part in the push for Sadr City earlier this year," he said. "Since, we have been trying to work them by establishing training programs [and] training of the younger soldiers, and getting them to the point where they could pass the EOD school in Basra."
This type of training signifies what the Iraqi security forces need to eventually take control of another operational area, Army Maj. Mike Ricciarti, liaison to Multinational Division Baghdad EOD operations, said.
Coalition forces are a better-equipped and trained force over the last five years, he said, adding that he believes improvements are on the horizon for his Iraqi counterparts.
"We are mentoring them, and we are assisting on levels that we can," he said. "We're sharing tactics, techniques and procedures that will help them stay alive and continue on with their mission."
(Army Sgt. David Hodge serves in Multinational Division Baghdad with the 4th Infantry Division's 1st Brigade Combat Team Public Affairs Office.)
Special to American Forces Press Service
Nov. 20, 2008 - Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers conducted explosive ordnance training with Iraqi security forces bomb disposal technicians Nov. 16 at this base in southern Baghdad. Soldiers and leaders from the 752nd Explosive Ordnance Disposal Company, attached to the 4th Infantry Division's 1st Special Troops Battalion, 1st Brigade Combat Team, detonated a van full of munitions to train soldiers from the 9th Iraqi Army Bomb Disposal Company on the proper techniques for effective post-blast site exploitation.
"I think this training is important for the Iraqi EOD, because it gives them a chance to see how we operate," said Army Staff Sgt. Stephen Cunningham, a team leader assigned to the 752nd EOD Company.
The soldiers packed the van with about 200 pounds of military-grade munitions to properly depict a real-world scenario.
The Iraqi technicians have plenty of robots, and their bomb suits and knowledge are up to date, Cunningham said. "They know what they're dealing with," he added, "especially when it comes to conventional ordnance."
The training keeps the Iraqi soldiers on their toes and contributes to the fight in the long run, said Army Spc. Curtis Garner, an EOD specialist assigned to the 752nd EOD Company.
"They seem really responsive, and they have a good grasp on what they are doing for their country," Garner said. "We just offer them a different avenue, outlook or thought process."
Garner said he believes the Iraqi team leaders are competent and capable enough to introduce new concepts previously not practiced by their bomb squad.
"In the beginning, we received good training and knowledge from our friends," said Lt. Col. Neve Rathwan Risa, commander of the 9th Iraqi Army Division Bomb Disposal Company. "They have good experience, and hopefully we will develop ourselves to deal with the improvised explosive devices."
Risa said he stresses the importance of knowledge and training to his soldiers and that he believes the exercise was a good opportunity for Iraqi bomb disposal technicians to train with coalition forces.
"It's very important to have this kind of branch in the new [Iraqi Army] to deal with all the roadside bombs and to disarm any explosive devices and make the roads safe for the people and the army," Risa explained.
The team is one of the leading bomb disposal companies in the Iraqi army, Army 1st Lt. Brad Lewis, an EOD technician assigned to the 752nd EOD Company, said.
"These guys played a big part in the push for Sadr City earlier this year," he said. "Since, we have been trying to work them by establishing training programs [and] training of the younger soldiers, and getting them to the point where they could pass the EOD school in Basra."
This type of training signifies what the Iraqi security forces need to eventually take control of another operational area, Army Maj. Mike Ricciarti, liaison to Multinational Division Baghdad EOD operations, said.
Coalition forces are a better-equipped and trained force over the last five years, he said, adding that he believes improvements are on the horizon for his Iraqi counterparts.
"We are mentoring them, and we are assisting on levels that we can," he said. "We're sharing tactics, techniques and procedures that will help them stay alive and continue on with their mission."
(Army Sgt. David Hodge serves in Multinational Division Baghdad with the 4th Infantry Division's 1st Brigade Combat Team Public Affairs Office.)
Face of Defense: Soldiers Truly Are 'Brothers in Arms'
By Army Spc. Curtis Riffle
Special to American Forces Press Service
Nov. 20, 2008 - Serving in the Army can be a long, difficult road. For many, the best way to survive is to embrace friends and coworkers along the way, and soldiers often consider their comrades as brothers and sisters. But two Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers are brothers in the literal sense. Army Capt. Lionel Macklin and Army Sgt. Donnell Macklin were happily reunited here Nov. 7 to commemorate the sergeant's commitment to remain a part of the Army team.
Sgt. Macklin serves as a forward signal support noncommissioned officer with the 25th Infantry Division's Company B, 52nd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, based out of Hawaii. His older brother serves as a platoon leader with the 4th Infantry Division's Company A, 3rd Battalion, 4th Aviation Squadron, Combat Aviation Brigade, based out of Fort Hood, Texas.
The two are natives of Ozark, Ala., and are intimately aware of the bonds that bring "brothers in arms" together. They were able to take advantage of the opportunity for the captain to administer the re-enlistment oath to his younger brother.
"For me, it was an obvious choice as to who was going to swear me in," Sgt.Macklin said. "I haven't seen my brother in four years, and for this opportunity to present itself, there was no other way I would have it done."
Capt. Macklin said he shares his brother's pride and enthusiasm, and that he was honored not only to attend his brother's life-making decision, but also to conduct the ceremony.
"This is a great honor for me, for our family [and] for him to let me do his re-enlistment," he said.
Both brothers will continue to serve in their respective units for the duration of the deployment, and both said they hope to visit home during their block leaves to share their experiences with the rest of their family.
(Army Spc. Curtis Riffle serves in Multinational Division Baghdad with the 25th Infantry Division's Company B, 52nd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team.)
Special to American Forces Press Service
Nov. 20, 2008 - Serving in the Army can be a long, difficult road. For many, the best way to survive is to embrace friends and coworkers along the way, and soldiers often consider their comrades as brothers and sisters. But two Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers are brothers in the literal sense. Army Capt. Lionel Macklin and Army Sgt. Donnell Macklin were happily reunited here Nov. 7 to commemorate the sergeant's commitment to remain a part of the Army team.
Sgt. Macklin serves as a forward signal support noncommissioned officer with the 25th Infantry Division's Company B, 52nd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, based out of Hawaii. His older brother serves as a platoon leader with the 4th Infantry Division's Company A, 3rd Battalion, 4th Aviation Squadron, Combat Aviation Brigade, based out of Fort Hood, Texas.
The two are natives of Ozark, Ala., and are intimately aware of the bonds that bring "brothers in arms" together. They were able to take advantage of the opportunity for the captain to administer the re-enlistment oath to his younger brother.
"For me, it was an obvious choice as to who was going to swear me in," Sgt.Macklin said. "I haven't seen my brother in four years, and for this opportunity to present itself, there was no other way I would have it done."
Capt. Macklin said he shares his brother's pride and enthusiasm, and that he was honored not only to attend his brother's life-making decision, but also to conduct the ceremony.
"This is a great honor for me, for our family [and] for him to let me do his re-enlistment," he said.
Both brothers will continue to serve in their respective units for the duration of the deployment, and both said they hope to visit home during their block leaves to share their experiences with the rest of their family.
(Army Spc. Curtis Riffle serves in Multinational Division Baghdad with the 25th Infantry Division's Company B, 52nd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team.)
Ohio Guard Closes Communications Gap in Afghanistan
By Army Spc. Kimberly Johnson
Special to American Forces Press Service
Nov. 20, 2008 - The Ohio Army National Guard's 37th Infantry Brigade Combat Team is making its presence felt in three key areas of Central Command: Kuwait, Iraq and now in Afghanistan. About 40 soldiers from the brigade have been called in to set up Joint Node Network communications in Afghanistan.
"It's a very important, high-priority mission," Army Col. Richard T. Curry, the brigade commander, said. "The soldiers who were selected were selected because of their unique skill set and the training they have accomplished over the last year."
Afghanistan's current infrastructure cannot support consistent, reliable communications. Weather and other environmental issues also are wreaking havoc with the systems now in use.
"Right now, they are not able to call in medical support the way we do in other theaters," Curry said. "There is a communications gap up there. The biggest part of what we will be able to do is fill in that gap, and by doing that, I absolutely believe we will be able to save lives in that theater of operations."
The JNN system will provide the infrastructure for the entire Afghanistan theater with regular and secure Internet, secure phones and voice teleconferencing capabilities, which have not been available in Afghanistan.
"It comes down to the Army has a need. When there's a need, our soldiers answer," Army Capt. Walter Work, Task Force Dragon Blade commander, said. "We were called to serve and help out our fellow soldiers who are hurting as far as communication assets go."
During three months of mobilization training at Fort Hood, Texas, the signal soldiers of the 37th exceeded the expectations of their instructors.
"We have proven ourselves," Work said. "The soldiers we selected to go are the best of the best. We are honored and definitely taking our 'A' team to Afghanistan."
(Army Spc. Kimberly Johnson serves with the 37th Infantry Brigade Combat Team.)
Special to American Forces Press Service
Nov. 20, 2008 - The Ohio Army National Guard's 37th Infantry Brigade Combat Team is making its presence felt in three key areas of Central Command: Kuwait, Iraq and now in Afghanistan. About 40 soldiers from the brigade have been called in to set up Joint Node Network communications in Afghanistan.
"It's a very important, high-priority mission," Army Col. Richard T. Curry, the brigade commander, said. "The soldiers who were selected were selected because of their unique skill set and the training they have accomplished over the last year."
Afghanistan's current infrastructure cannot support consistent, reliable communications. Weather and other environmental issues also are wreaking havoc with the systems now in use.
"Right now, they are not able to call in medical support the way we do in other theaters," Curry said. "There is a communications gap up there. The biggest part of what we will be able to do is fill in that gap, and by doing that, I absolutely believe we will be able to save lives in that theater of operations."
The JNN system will provide the infrastructure for the entire Afghanistan theater with regular and secure Internet, secure phones and voice teleconferencing capabilities, which have not been available in Afghanistan.
"It comes down to the Army has a need. When there's a need, our soldiers answer," Army Capt. Walter Work, Task Force Dragon Blade commander, said. "We were called to serve and help out our fellow soldiers who are hurting as far as communication assets go."
During three months of mobilization training at Fort Hood, Texas, the signal soldiers of the 37th exceeded the expectations of their instructors.
"We have proven ourselves," Work said. "The soldiers we selected to go are the best of the best. We are honored and definitely taking our 'A' team to Afghanistan."
(Army Spc. Kimberly Johnson serves with the 37th Infantry Brigade Combat Team.)
Afghan, Coalition Forces Capture Key Insurgent Leader, Militant
American Forces Press Service
Nov. 20, 2008 - Afghan and coalition forces detained a key insurgent leader in an early morning raid in Afghanistan's Khowst province yesterday. Hakim Jan is responsible for the deaths of Afghan security force members and roadside-bomb attacks on coalition forces, officials said.
In other news from Afghanistan, Afghan and coalition forces detained a suspected militant during a combined operation targeting the Haqqani terrorist network in Khowst.
The combined force searched a compound, targeting a militant known to be in direct contact with senior Haqqani leaders who finance and facilitate terrorist activities in the region, officials said. The search turned up a rifle, a pistol and an ammunition magazine.
(Compiled from U.S. Forces Afghanistan news releases.)
Nov. 20, 2008 - Afghan and coalition forces detained a key insurgent leader in an early morning raid in Afghanistan's Khowst province yesterday. Hakim Jan is responsible for the deaths of Afghan security force members and roadside-bomb attacks on coalition forces, officials said.
In other news from Afghanistan, Afghan and coalition forces detained a suspected militant during a combined operation targeting the Haqqani terrorist network in Khowst.
The combined force searched a compound, targeting a militant known to be in direct contact with senior Haqqani leaders who finance and facilitate terrorist activities in the region, officials said. The search turned up a rifle, a pistol and an ammunition magazine.
(Compiled from U.S. Forces Afghanistan news releases.)
Iraqis, Coalition Kill al-Qaida in Iraq Leaders
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service
Nov. 20, 2008 - Iraqi and coalition forces have struck a severe blow against al-Qaida in Iraq, a senior coalition spokesman said in Baghdad today. Army Brig. Gen. David Perkins, a spokesman for Multinational Force Iraq, said one al-Qaida leader killed was responsible for the abduction and murder of Army Staff Sgt. Keith "Matt" Maupin in June 2004.
The blows against al-Qaida will have significant effects on the terrorist network, he said.
"In the last two months, coalition and Iraqi forces have detained 136 people who played key roles in al-Qaida in Iraq, along with taking part in the network structures throughout Iraq and having links to other places throughout the world," Perkins said during a news conference.
Coalition and Iraqi forces combined to kill Haji Hammadi, one of the founders of al-Qaida in Iraq, who was the terror organization's leader in Karmah and Abu Ghraib, an area west of Baghdad. "Hammadi was responsible for planning and conducting attacks against coalition forces, Iraqi forces, government officials and Iraqi citizens," Perkins said.
The terror leader most recently was responsible for a June 26 attack in Karmah. Hammadi escorted a suicide bomber disguised as an Iraqi police officer to the attack location and then videotaped the attack, Perkins said. The attack killed 20 Iraqis, including the mayor of Karmah and several sheiks. The attack also killed U.S. Marines.
Hammadi also was responsible for the abduction and murder of Maupin in 2004, Perkins said. Maupin, an Army reservist with the 724th Transportation Company, was kidnapped April 9, 2004. His status was missing/captured until March 28 of this year, when officials at Dover Air Force Base, Del., identified remains as his.
"The removal of a cold-blooded killer of innocent Iraqis and coalition personnel will further degrade the ability of al-Qaida to carry out these attacks," Perkins said.
The killing of another al-Qaida leader shows the growth of cooperation among coalition forces, the Iraqi military and the "Sons of Iraq" citizen security groups, said Army Col. Todd McCaffrey, commander of the 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team. A Sons of Iraq tip to the Iraqi army led to the death of Abu Ghazwan, a senior al-Qaida leader in the northern belt of Baghdad.
McCaffrey, who also spoke during the news conference, said the operation strengthened ties between the Sons of Iraq and the Iraqi security forces. Ghazwan was the leader of the terror organization in Baghdad's northern belt, and he was killed in the village of Tarmiyah, where he had operated for the last two years.
"The Sons of Iraq actually killed Abu Ghazwan and brought his body back for identification," McCaffrey said. "This renewed confidence on the part of the Sons of Iraq and the Iraqi Army. We're very positive about the cooperation between the two groups, and look forward to more in the future."
American Forces Press Service
Nov. 20, 2008 - Iraqi and coalition forces have struck a severe blow against al-Qaida in Iraq, a senior coalition spokesman said in Baghdad today. Army Brig. Gen. David Perkins, a spokesman for Multinational Force Iraq, said one al-Qaida leader killed was responsible for the abduction and murder of Army Staff Sgt. Keith "Matt" Maupin in June 2004.
The blows against al-Qaida will have significant effects on the terrorist network, he said.
"In the last two months, coalition and Iraqi forces have detained 136 people who played key roles in al-Qaida in Iraq, along with taking part in the network structures throughout Iraq and having links to other places throughout the world," Perkins said during a news conference.
Coalition and Iraqi forces combined to kill Haji Hammadi, one of the founders of al-Qaida in Iraq, who was the terror organization's leader in Karmah and Abu Ghraib, an area west of Baghdad. "Hammadi was responsible for planning and conducting attacks against coalition forces, Iraqi forces, government officials and Iraqi citizens," Perkins said.
The terror leader most recently was responsible for a June 26 attack in Karmah. Hammadi escorted a suicide bomber disguised as an Iraqi police officer to the attack location and then videotaped the attack, Perkins said. The attack killed 20 Iraqis, including the mayor of Karmah and several sheiks. The attack also killed U.S. Marines.
Hammadi also was responsible for the abduction and murder of Maupin in 2004, Perkins said. Maupin, an Army reservist with the 724th Transportation Company, was kidnapped April 9, 2004. His status was missing/captured until March 28 of this year, when officials at Dover Air Force Base, Del., identified remains as his.
"The removal of a cold-blooded killer of innocent Iraqis and coalition personnel will further degrade the ability of al-Qaida to carry out these attacks," Perkins said.
The killing of another al-Qaida leader shows the growth of cooperation among coalition forces, the Iraqi military and the "Sons of Iraq" citizen security groups, said Army Col. Todd McCaffrey, commander of the 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team. A Sons of Iraq tip to the Iraqi army led to the death of Abu Ghazwan, a senior al-Qaida leader in the northern belt of Baghdad.
McCaffrey, who also spoke during the news conference, said the operation strengthened ties between the Sons of Iraq and the Iraqi security forces. Ghazwan was the leader of the terror organization in Baghdad's northern belt, and he was killed in the village of Tarmiyah, where he had operated for the last two years.
"The Sons of Iraq actually killed Abu Ghazwan and brought his body back for identification," McCaffrey said. "This renewed confidence on the part of the Sons of Iraq and the Iraqi Army. We're very positive about the cooperation between the two groups, and look forward to more in the future."
Coalition Forces Capture Five Wanted Men, 10 Additional Suspects
American Forces Press Service
Nov. 20, 2008 - Coalition forces captured five wanted men and detained 10 additional suspects during operations targeting terrorist networks throughout Iraq yesterday and today, military officials reported. Coalition forces operating in Beiji, south of Mosul, captured a wanted man today who is believed to be a weapons facilitator and financier for a terrorist group associated with al-Qaida. Reports suggest the suspected terrorist, who surrendered himself to forces during the operation, has connections to al-Qaida senior leaders, officials said. An additional suspect was detained for questioning.
A wanted man believed to be a car-bomb facilitator was captured by coalition forces yesterday in Sharqat, south of Mosul. Reports suggest the suspected terrorist was actively planning a car-bomb attack in the city at the time of his capture, officials said. Two additional suspects were detained.
In Mosul yesterday, coalition forces detained a man who allegedly has connections to an al-Qaida in Iraq car-bomb cell leader in the city.
Terrorist bombing networks also were the target of a coalition operation yesterday in Abu Ghraib, west of Baghdad. Forces captured a wanted man believed to be associated with an area terrorist group. The suspect is believed to be involved in car-bomb facilitation and possibly has connections to other area terrorist operatives, officials said.
Forces in Tikrit, north of Baghdad, captured another wanted man and detained four men believed to be his associates yesterday. The suspect is an alleged al-Qaida cell leader in the city. Also yesterday, forces detained a man in Baghdad believed to have links to one of the city's terrorist leaders.
Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers in the Bayaa community of southern Baghdad's Rashid district detained a suspected member of an Iranian-backed enemy group yesterday.
Also yesterday, U.S. soldiers detained a man suspected of kidnapping, murder and attacks against Iraqi security and coalition forces.
In operations Nov. 18:
-- Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers and Iraqi security forces conducted a joint operation in Baghdad's Istaqlal district. The early morning operation netted seven detainees. A coalition of American and Iraqi soldiers participated in clearing and searching buildings, vehicles and nearby fields.
-- Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers and Iraqi National police confiscated a rifle cache during a clearance operation in the Abu Tshir community of southern Baghdad's Rashid district. They seized 38 AK-47 assault rifles, three sniper rifles and 14 AK-47 magazines.
-- Iraqi soldiers received a tip from a local citizen that led them to a weapons cache in the Lutafiyah area and asked for help from U.S. soldiers to dispose of the cache. The cache consisted of 25 130 mm rounds and eight 155 mm artillery rounds. An explosive ordnance disposal team documented the contents of the site before safely destroying them.
In other developments, coalition forces have positively identified a terrorist killed in a Nov. 11 operation in Baghdad as Hajji Hammadi, an Iraqi national also known as Hammadi Awdah Abd Farhan and Abd-al-Salam Ahmad Abdallah al-Janabi.
Hammadi was affiliated with al-Qaida in Iraq since its inception and assumed his role as the al-Qaida in Iraq leader of the Karmah and Abu Ghraib areas west of Baghdad in 2004, officials said. He is believed to have connections with the country's legacy al-Qaida leadership, including al-Qaida in Iraq founder Abu Musab al-Zarqawi and the terrorist group's current leaders.
In his position as a regional al-Qaida leader, Hammadi was responsible for planning and conducting multiple attacks on coalition forces, Iraqi police, Iraqi government officials and Iraqi citizens, officials said. These attacks were carried out as suicide and car bombings, kidnappings, executions and assassinations.
Hammadi was the mastermind behind a June 26 attack on coalition forces and Iraqi government officials in Anbar province, officials said. One of his operatives, disguised in an Iraqi police uniform, detonated a suicide vest in Karmah during the city's weekly sheiks meeting. This attack killed three U.S. Marines, two interpreters and more than 20 Iraqis, including the mayor of Karmah and several other sheiks. Hammadi escorted the suicide bomber to the location and videotaped the attack, officials said.
He also has been linked to multiple assassinations of "Sons of Iraq" citizen security group members in the Baghdad area, officials said. Hammadi's history of terrorist activity includes the abduction and murder of Army Staff Sgt. Matt Maupin in 2004, they added. Maupin's body was found earlier this year. Hammadi also led a group of fighters against coalition forces in the second battle of Fallujah in the fall of 2004, officials said.
(Compiled from Multinational Force Iraq and Multinational Corps Iraq news releases.)
Nov. 20, 2008 - Coalition forces captured five wanted men and detained 10 additional suspects during operations targeting terrorist networks throughout Iraq yesterday and today, military officials reported. Coalition forces operating in Beiji, south of Mosul, captured a wanted man today who is believed to be a weapons facilitator and financier for a terrorist group associated with al-Qaida. Reports suggest the suspected terrorist, who surrendered himself to forces during the operation, has connections to al-Qaida senior leaders, officials said. An additional suspect was detained for questioning.
A wanted man believed to be a car-bomb facilitator was captured by coalition forces yesterday in Sharqat, south of Mosul. Reports suggest the suspected terrorist was actively planning a car-bomb attack in the city at the time of his capture, officials said. Two additional suspects were detained.
In Mosul yesterday, coalition forces detained a man who allegedly has connections to an al-Qaida in Iraq car-bomb cell leader in the city.
Terrorist bombing networks also were the target of a coalition operation yesterday in Abu Ghraib, west of Baghdad. Forces captured a wanted man believed to be associated with an area terrorist group. The suspect is believed to be involved in car-bomb facilitation and possibly has connections to other area terrorist operatives, officials said.
Forces in Tikrit, north of Baghdad, captured another wanted man and detained four men believed to be his associates yesterday. The suspect is an alleged al-Qaida cell leader in the city. Also yesterday, forces detained a man in Baghdad believed to have links to one of the city's terrorist leaders.
Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers in the Bayaa community of southern Baghdad's Rashid district detained a suspected member of an Iranian-backed enemy group yesterday.
Also yesterday, U.S. soldiers detained a man suspected of kidnapping, murder and attacks against Iraqi security and coalition forces.
In operations Nov. 18:
-- Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers and Iraqi security forces conducted a joint operation in Baghdad's Istaqlal district. The early morning operation netted seven detainees. A coalition of American and Iraqi soldiers participated in clearing and searching buildings, vehicles and nearby fields.
-- Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers and Iraqi National police confiscated a rifle cache during a clearance operation in the Abu Tshir community of southern Baghdad's Rashid district. They seized 38 AK-47 assault rifles, three sniper rifles and 14 AK-47 magazines.
-- Iraqi soldiers received a tip from a local citizen that led them to a weapons cache in the Lutafiyah area and asked for help from U.S. soldiers to dispose of the cache. The cache consisted of 25 130 mm rounds and eight 155 mm artillery rounds. An explosive ordnance disposal team documented the contents of the site before safely destroying them.
In other developments, coalition forces have positively identified a terrorist killed in a Nov. 11 operation in Baghdad as Hajji Hammadi, an Iraqi national also known as Hammadi Awdah Abd Farhan and Abd-al-Salam Ahmad Abdallah al-Janabi.
Hammadi was affiliated with al-Qaida in Iraq since its inception and assumed his role as the al-Qaida in Iraq leader of the Karmah and Abu Ghraib areas west of Baghdad in 2004, officials said. He is believed to have connections with the country's legacy al-Qaida leadership, including al-Qaida in Iraq founder Abu Musab al-Zarqawi and the terrorist group's current leaders.
In his position as a regional al-Qaida leader, Hammadi was responsible for planning and conducting multiple attacks on coalition forces, Iraqi police, Iraqi government officials and Iraqi citizens, officials said. These attacks were carried out as suicide and car bombings, kidnappings, executions and assassinations.
Hammadi was the mastermind behind a June 26 attack on coalition forces and Iraqi government officials in Anbar province, officials said. One of his operatives, disguised in an Iraqi police uniform, detonated a suicide vest in Karmah during the city's weekly sheiks meeting. This attack killed three U.S. Marines, two interpreters and more than 20 Iraqis, including the mayor of Karmah and several other sheiks. Hammadi escorted the suicide bomber to the location and videotaped the attack, officials said.
He also has been linked to multiple assassinations of "Sons of Iraq" citizen security group members in the Baghdad area, officials said. Hammadi's history of terrorist activity includes the abduction and murder of Army Staff Sgt. Matt Maupin in 2004, they added. Maupin's body was found earlier this year. Hammadi also led a group of fighters against coalition forces in the second battle of Fallujah in the fall of 2004, officials said.
(Compiled from Multinational Force Iraq and Multinational Corps Iraq news releases.)
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