History was made as the first joint U.S. and Iraqi army non-commissioned officer ceremony was held at Forward Operation Base Faylok in Diyala province on March 27. Soldiers from 3rd Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division joined with Soldiers of the 20th Brigade, 5th Iraqi Army Division to officially induct their newest members into the NCO Corps.
Of the 27 Soldiers that were inducted in the ceremony, 18 were members of the 3-21 Inf. and 9 were members of the 20th IA Brigade.
Though the ceremony is not required for Soldiers who become NCOs the ceremony is seen as a time-honored tradition that displays the pride and respect Soldiers have for the Corps.
"It is a great honor. I know when I came up as a sergeant, this was pretty much the tradition and the norm, but due to all of the deployments it has kind of went away. So it is good to see it come back and to see the Soldiers get to participate," said 1st Sgt. Richard Beaver of 3-21 Inf.
The ceremony began with the playing of the U.S. and Iraqi national anthems symbolizing the bond the two groups have created with each other.
"We have united over the last few years. Last deployment we didn't joke around or talk to them [Iraqi army] very much but now we interact with them quite a bit," said Sgt. Melvin Gibson, an NCO inductee with the 3-21 Inf.
During the ceremony the Soldiers from each respective nation stood and recited their service's NCO creed. Each creed was then interpreted to the others language so all could acknowledge the creed being recited.
The guest speaker for the ceremony was Command Sgt. Maj. Robert Austin of the Brigade Support Battalion, 1/25th SBCT who spoke on what it means to be a leader and NCO in the military.
"It was an honor for me to be chosen as the guest speaker to be able to give a message to the young leaders; our future leaders of tomorrow," said Austin.
After Austin spoke, four senior U.S. NCOs along with one Iraqi NCO entered and lit four separate candles signifying the core principles of the military and its forever endurance.
The Soldiers then walked through an archway and over a small wooden bridge on the event's stage to signify their passage into the NCO Corps.
"This is something I'll always remember; the biggest reason is because of the IA. It just shows that every day we are getting closer to the Iraqi people and the Iraqi army," said NCO inductee Sgt. Jessie Calvillo, Company C, 3-21 Inf.
After the ceremony closed the new inductees lined up and were greeted with smiles and handshakes from their fellow Soldiers from both the U.S. and Iraq. The historical event was a defining mark in the relationship between the two nations, once enemies, now comrades, in the struggle to bring peace to a nation.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Southern Afghan Command to Enter 'New Phase' of Operations
By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service
June 25, 2009 - Troops in southern Afghanistan are preparing to launch a "new phase" of operations designed to secure the population but which may also lead to increased violence, a NATO commander said today. Netherlands Army Maj. Gen. Mart de Kruif, commander of the ISAF's Regional Command South in Afghanistan, said his 30,000-strong force will soon begin operations to clear, hold and build central and southern Helmand province and stabilize Kandahar.
"We're entering a new state in the operation, in which I would like to make the case that we took away the operational initiative from the insurgents and are now entering a new state, in which we will have the operational initiative on our side and maintain it," he told reporters at the Pentagon today.
De Kruif, who spoke via videoconference from Kandahar, has seen his forces grow by about 8,000 troops over the past several months amid an influx of mostly U.S. forces. The general recently took command of the 82nd Combat Aviation Brigade, Task Force Pegasus, 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, known as Task Force Leatherneck.
The newly-arrived components, which represent part of the 57,000 overall U.S. forces in Afghanistan, will aid in the operations that are ramping up, the commander said. Meanwhile, NATO has some 32,000 forces there.
"We (should) see the effects of the additional forces on the ground in a very short time from now," de Kruif said.
But de Kruif also predicted that the number of attacks in southern Afghanistan is likely to rise with the influx of additional troops there.
"There will be an increase in incidents in the next couple of months, based on the fact that we are going to deploy these forces and secure areas where we've never been before until now," he said. "And we will also be able to put much more pressure on the insurgency than we did until now."
The general said his command measures success through frequent polling of the Afghan people, tracking the number of incidents and the amount of improvised explosive devices, or IEDs, uncovered.
"The best two metrics I have seen up to now is the amount of shops open in the bazaar and the amount of schools open in the villages," he added. "I would say that's by far the best metrics that I've seen until now."
Meanwhile, one of the multinational force's major security concerns is the "nexus" of the narcotics trade and networks responsible for launching IED attacks.
"It's sad to say that the nexus is there -- we've proven it -- and that the narco-industry is fueling the insurgency partly," de Kruif said. "There is some decrease in poppy harvest now, but overall, the effect of this will be seen on the long run, not next year" in reducing revenues from poppy trade.
De Kruif noted that Regional Command South established a civilian-military cooperation cell in November that produced a regional economic plan endorsed last month by all the governors, line ministries, task forces and provincial reconstruction teams.
The cell oversees about $700 million in projects, nearly $300 million of which is already in use to fund power, water, water management and regional infrastructure.
"This is a significant step and has added value towards the work, what the (provincial reconstruction teams) are doing in the province," he said.
American Forces Press Service
June 25, 2009 - Troops in southern Afghanistan are preparing to launch a "new phase" of operations designed to secure the population but which may also lead to increased violence, a NATO commander said today. Netherlands Army Maj. Gen. Mart de Kruif, commander of the ISAF's Regional Command South in Afghanistan, said his 30,000-strong force will soon begin operations to clear, hold and build central and southern Helmand province and stabilize Kandahar.
"We're entering a new state in the operation, in which I would like to make the case that we took away the operational initiative from the insurgents and are now entering a new state, in which we will have the operational initiative on our side and maintain it," he told reporters at the Pentagon today.
De Kruif, who spoke via videoconference from Kandahar, has seen his forces grow by about 8,000 troops over the past several months amid an influx of mostly U.S. forces. The general recently took command of the 82nd Combat Aviation Brigade, Task Force Pegasus, 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, known as Task Force Leatherneck.
The newly-arrived components, which represent part of the 57,000 overall U.S. forces in Afghanistan, will aid in the operations that are ramping up, the commander said. Meanwhile, NATO has some 32,000 forces there.
"We (should) see the effects of the additional forces on the ground in a very short time from now," de Kruif said.
But de Kruif also predicted that the number of attacks in southern Afghanistan is likely to rise with the influx of additional troops there.
"There will be an increase in incidents in the next couple of months, based on the fact that we are going to deploy these forces and secure areas where we've never been before until now," he said. "And we will also be able to put much more pressure on the insurgency than we did until now."
The general said his command measures success through frequent polling of the Afghan people, tracking the number of incidents and the amount of improvised explosive devices, or IEDs, uncovered.
"The best two metrics I have seen up to now is the amount of shops open in the bazaar and the amount of schools open in the villages," he added. "I would say that's by far the best metrics that I've seen until now."
Meanwhile, one of the multinational force's major security concerns is the "nexus" of the narcotics trade and networks responsible for launching IED attacks.
"It's sad to say that the nexus is there -- we've proven it -- and that the narco-industry is fueling the insurgency partly," de Kruif said. "There is some decrease in poppy harvest now, but overall, the effect of this will be seen on the long run, not next year" in reducing revenues from poppy trade.
De Kruif noted that Regional Command South established a civilian-military cooperation cell in November that produced a regional economic plan endorsed last month by all the governors, line ministries, task forces and provincial reconstruction teams.
The cell oversees about $700 million in projects, nearly $300 million of which is already in use to fund power, water, water management and regional infrastructure.
"This is a significant step and has added value towards the work, what the (provincial reconstruction teams) are doing in the province," he said.
Baghdad School of Art for Girls Celebrates Renovations
By Army Sgt. Brian TierceSpecial to American Forces Press Service
June 25, 2009 - Eight months of work by U.S. soldiers and Iraqi Education Ministry officials culminated in a June 23 ceremony celebrating renovation of the Baghdad School of Arts for Girls in the Iraqi capital's Mansour district. Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers of the 1st Infantry Division's 2nd Heavy Brigade Combat Team worked with Iraqi education officials to make the renovations a reality.
"Today's event is under the slogan 'Art can talk,'" said Kareema Hashim, the school's headmistress. "We look forward to the increased production of the students, thanks to the generosity of our friends in supporting this art school."
Hashim said the school opened its doors in 1935 and has graduated many famous Iraqi artists over the years. But in recent years, degraded security led to the school being unable to maintain operations, and the equipment the students used became either outdated or unserviceable.
After discovering the school in their area of operations, soldiers from the brigade's 5th Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment, kick-started an effort with support from the Education Ministry to provide the school with equipment. With help from Deputy Education Minister Nihad Abbas Shihad al-Juburi, a contract was established to provide the students with the tools they need to develop their abilities.
"Through projects like this, Dr. Nihad is fulfilling his vision for educating Iraq's young women in the best possible artistic techniques," said Army Lt. Col. Christopher Beckert, the brigade's deputy commander. "I wish all of you the best of luck in the coming school year using the equipment in the great institute, and I ask that you accept it as a gift from the American people."
The chance to refurbish the school was made possible by the improved security in the area. The contractor who performed the upgrades said the situation has seen a marked improvement since he began working with coalition forces.
"I have worked with the American Army for four years; I have worked over 50 contracts and through many difficult times," Abbas al-Maliki said. "Thanks to security improvements made by the presence of the Iraqi army, Iraqi police and the Sons of Iraq [civilian security group], the neighborhood is no longer safe for the enemies of Iraq."
With a learning environment safe from the worries of external dangers, officials expressed the hope that the school can help to foster an artistic renaissance here.
"I thank the teachers and the professors here at the institute for their dedication and their love of the arts and for transferring that love of art to their students," Beckert said.
(Army Sgt. Brian Tierce serves in Multinational Division Baghdad with the 1st Infantry Division's 2nd Heavy Brigade Combat Team public affairs office.)
Rodriguez Assumes New Afghanistan Post
American Forces Press Service
June 25, 2009 - Army Lt. Gen. David M. Rodriguez arrived in Afghanistan yesterday to assume his post as deputy commander of U.S. Forces Afghanistan. He'll serve in that capacity on an interim basis as NATO officials set up a new intermediate command that Rodriguez will head in the alliance's International Security Assistance Force to oversee day-to-day military operations.
Earlier this month, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates explained the rationale behind the new command structure and where Rodriquez will fit in under Army Gen. Stanley A. McChrystal, who commands both U.S. and NATO forces in Afghanistan.
"The problem we needed to address is [that] the commander of ISAF under the current arrangement has far too many responsibilities to be able to guide the tactical battle on a day-to-day basis across the country," Gates said. "The plan is for General McChrystal and the [British] deputy commander -- Royal Marines Lt. Gen. Jim Dutton -- to have more of a strategic role in looking across the country at a more elevated level in terms of cooperation between civil and military efforts."
The command as proposed would be an intermediate headquarters under the ISAF commander that would focus on the tactical situation. "It would be very much like the corps commander in Iraq under the Multinational Force Iraq commander," Gates said. "So you've got somebody with the overarching responsibility for strategy, but somebody working the day-to-day battle."
The secretary said he hopes the new NATO command structure will be in place by August. "Immediately on the establishment of this ISAF headquarters," he said, "[Rodriquez] will take off the U.S. hat and put on an ISAF hat, and his only role will be in an alliance role."
This is the second tour of duty in Afghanistan for Rodriquez. As commander of the 82nd Airborne Division, he led Combined Joint Task Force 76, based at Bagram Airfield, from February 2007 to April 2008.
As deputy commander of U.S. Forces Afghanistan, Rodriguez will direct the day-to-day operations and ensure efficient command and control of U.S. forces and continue effective integration and coordination between U.S. and coalition forces operating under ISAF, officials said.
Rodriguez most recently served as Gates' senior military assistant.
(From a U.S. Forces Afghanistan news release. Jim Garamone of American Forces Press Service contributed to this article.)
June 25, 2009 - Army Lt. Gen. David M. Rodriguez arrived in Afghanistan yesterday to assume his post as deputy commander of U.S. Forces Afghanistan. He'll serve in that capacity on an interim basis as NATO officials set up a new intermediate command that Rodriguez will head in the alliance's International Security Assistance Force to oversee day-to-day military operations.
Earlier this month, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates explained the rationale behind the new command structure and where Rodriquez will fit in under Army Gen. Stanley A. McChrystal, who commands both U.S. and NATO forces in Afghanistan.
"The problem we needed to address is [that] the commander of ISAF under the current arrangement has far too many responsibilities to be able to guide the tactical battle on a day-to-day basis across the country," Gates said. "The plan is for General McChrystal and the [British] deputy commander -- Royal Marines Lt. Gen. Jim Dutton -- to have more of a strategic role in looking across the country at a more elevated level in terms of cooperation between civil and military efforts."
The command as proposed would be an intermediate headquarters under the ISAF commander that would focus on the tactical situation. "It would be very much like the corps commander in Iraq under the Multinational Force Iraq commander," Gates said. "So you've got somebody with the overarching responsibility for strategy, but somebody working the day-to-day battle."
The secretary said he hopes the new NATO command structure will be in place by August. "Immediately on the establishment of this ISAF headquarters," he said, "[Rodriquez] will take off the U.S. hat and put on an ISAF hat, and his only role will be in an alliance role."
This is the second tour of duty in Afghanistan for Rodriquez. As commander of the 82nd Airborne Division, he led Combined Joint Task Force 76, based at Bagram Airfield, from February 2007 to April 2008.
As deputy commander of U.S. Forces Afghanistan, Rodriguez will direct the day-to-day operations and ensure efficient command and control of U.S. forces and continue effective integration and coordination between U.S. and coalition forces operating under ISAF, officials said.
Rodriguez most recently served as Gates' senior military assistant.
(From a U.S. Forces Afghanistan news release. Jim Garamone of American Forces Press Service contributed to this article.)
Forces Disrupt Taliban Activity in Afghanistan
American Forces Press Service
June 25, 2009 - Afghan and coalition forces killed suspected militants and detained others today in operations to disrupt Taliban activity throughout Afghanistan. The force raided a compound in Helmand province believed to be the hideout of a Taliban commander with ties to Taliban operations within the province.
Upon arrival at the compound in the province's Nad Ali district, the force was engaged by small-arms fire from hostile militants. The force used direct fire and close-air support to repel the attack, killing several militants. The force also detained nearly a dozen suspected militants and seized several small-arms weapons, multiple chest racks and ammunition.
Elsewhere, Afghan and coalition forces raided a compound in Wardak province suspected of being the safe house of a Taliban commander. The commander is believed to be responsible for several attacks on Afghan National Security Forces and coalition forces along Highway 1.
While clearing a compound in Wardak's Sayed Abad district, the force came upon and pursued a group of armed militants. As militants attempted to fire on the force, the force engaged them and eliminated the threat. A search revealed a militant wearing a suicide-bomb vest, small-arms weapons, chest racks and grenades. The force completed the search without further incident, detaining suspected militants.
In the Gelan district of Ghazni province, Afghan and coalition forces raided a compound believed to be the safe house of a key Taliban operator involved with the movement and support of foreign fighters into the region. While clearing the compound, the force encountered and eliminated the threat. The force completed the search without incident.
No Afghan, coalition forces or noncombatant injuries were reported.
(From a U.S. Forces Afghanistan news release.)
June 25, 2009 - Afghan and coalition forces killed suspected militants and detained others today in operations to disrupt Taliban activity throughout Afghanistan. The force raided a compound in Helmand province believed to be the hideout of a Taliban commander with ties to Taliban operations within the province.
Upon arrival at the compound in the province's Nad Ali district, the force was engaged by small-arms fire from hostile militants. The force used direct fire and close-air support to repel the attack, killing several militants. The force also detained nearly a dozen suspected militants and seized several small-arms weapons, multiple chest racks and ammunition.
Elsewhere, Afghan and coalition forces raided a compound in Wardak province suspected of being the safe house of a Taliban commander. The commander is believed to be responsible for several attacks on Afghan National Security Forces and coalition forces along Highway 1.
While clearing a compound in Wardak's Sayed Abad district, the force came upon and pursued a group of armed militants. As militants attempted to fire on the force, the force engaged them and eliminated the threat. A search revealed a militant wearing a suicide-bomb vest, small-arms weapons, chest racks and grenades. The force completed the search without further incident, detaining suspected militants.
In the Gelan district of Ghazni province, Afghan and coalition forces raided a compound believed to be the safe house of a key Taliban operator involved with the movement and support of foreign fighters into the region. While clearing the compound, the force encountered and eliminated the threat. The force completed the search without incident.
No Afghan, coalition forces or noncombatant injuries were reported.
(From a U.S. Forces Afghanistan news release.)
Forces in Iraq Detain Suspected Terrorist, Seize Weapons
American Forces Press Service
June 25, 2009 - Iraqi forces arrested a suspected terrorist and U.S. and Iraqi forces seized a massive weapons cache in Iraq in recent days, military officials reported. In Anbar province yesterday, the Iraqi special weapons and tactics team in Qaim arrested a man who is suspected of smuggling materials and foreign fighters into Iraq and is believed to be responsible for the deaths of police officers in Ramana, Iraq.
Elsewhere, Iraqi security forces and Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers seized a massive weapons cache June 23 near Tarmiyah, north of Baghdad.
The cache contained 26 grenades, 35 rocket-propelled grenades, five roadside bombs with detonation devices, two antipersonnel mines, a suicide vest, 100 rocket and mortar rounds, and a mix of other ammunition, including thousands of small-arms rounds.
Iraqi and U.S. soldiers also recovered base elements used to produce explosives, including military-grade plastic explosives and the mechanisms for triggering them.
Coalition force explosive ordnance disposal technicians conducted a controlled detonation to dispose of the cache.
(Compiled from Multinational Corps Iraq news releases.)
June 25, 2009 - Iraqi forces arrested a suspected terrorist and U.S. and Iraqi forces seized a massive weapons cache in Iraq in recent days, military officials reported. In Anbar province yesterday, the Iraqi special weapons and tactics team in Qaim arrested a man who is suspected of smuggling materials and foreign fighters into Iraq and is believed to be responsible for the deaths of police officers in Ramana, Iraq.
Elsewhere, Iraqi security forces and Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers seized a massive weapons cache June 23 near Tarmiyah, north of Baghdad.
The cache contained 26 grenades, 35 rocket-propelled grenades, five roadside bombs with detonation devices, two antipersonnel mines, a suicide vest, 100 rocket and mortar rounds, and a mix of other ammunition, including thousands of small-arms rounds.
Iraqi and U.S. soldiers also recovered base elements used to produce explosives, including military-grade plastic explosives and the mechanisms for triggering them.
Coalition force explosive ordnance disposal technicians conducted a controlled detonation to dispose of the cache.
(Compiled from Multinational Corps Iraq news releases.)
Kyrgyz Parliament Approves Manas Air Base Agreement
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
June 25, 2009 - The Kyrgyz parliament today ratified an agreement between the United States and Kyrgyzstan to extend U.S. access to Manas Air Base, a key logistics hub that supplies troops in Afghanistan, Pentagon spokesman Bryan Whitman confirmed today. The agreement must now go to Kyrgyz President Kurmanbek Bakiev for signature.
"It's not a done deal until the president signs it," Whitman said. "Out of respect for their processes, we've been trying to give them the time and space to give this the consideration that it needs."
The agreement provides for a transit center at Manas International Airport, operated by the United States, to provide logistical support to coalition forces in Afghanistan. About 15,000 troops and 500 tons of cargo move through the base every month, and the base's importance has increased as more troops deploy into Afghanistan.
Officials said on background that the United States agreed to pay $60 million a year to use the base, up from $17.4 million under the previous arrangement.
Today's vote, if approved by the president, reverses Kyrgyzstan's previous decision to end the arrangement the United States and Kyrgyzstan entered three years ago that gave the U.S. annual renewal rights through July 2011. Kyrgyzstan's foreign ministry notified the U.S. Embassy in the Kyrgyz capital of Bishkek in February that it had six months to leave Manas.
"We think it's to our mutual benefit," Pentagon Press Secretary Geoff Morrell told Pentagon reporters yesterday in anticipation of the parliament's vote. "They obviously have a great stake in what's happening in that region, as do we. And we look forward to continuing to work, with them to supply our troops in Afghanistan so that we can help with the overall security."
(John Kruzel of American Forces Press Service contributed to this article.)
American Forces Press Service
June 25, 2009 - The Kyrgyz parliament today ratified an agreement between the United States and Kyrgyzstan to extend U.S. access to Manas Air Base, a key logistics hub that supplies troops in Afghanistan, Pentagon spokesman Bryan Whitman confirmed today. The agreement must now go to Kyrgyz President Kurmanbek Bakiev for signature.
"It's not a done deal until the president signs it," Whitman said. "Out of respect for their processes, we've been trying to give them the time and space to give this the consideration that it needs."
The agreement provides for a transit center at Manas International Airport, operated by the United States, to provide logistical support to coalition forces in Afghanistan. About 15,000 troops and 500 tons of cargo move through the base every month, and the base's importance has increased as more troops deploy into Afghanistan.
Officials said on background that the United States agreed to pay $60 million a year to use the base, up from $17.4 million under the previous arrangement.
Today's vote, if approved by the president, reverses Kyrgyzstan's previous decision to end the arrangement the United States and Kyrgyzstan entered three years ago that gave the U.S. annual renewal rights through July 2011. Kyrgyzstan's foreign ministry notified the U.S. Embassy in the Kyrgyz capital of Bishkek in February that it had six months to leave Manas.
"We think it's to our mutual benefit," Pentagon Press Secretary Geoff Morrell told Pentagon reporters yesterday in anticipation of the parliament's vote. "They obviously have a great stake in what's happening in that region, as do we. And we look forward to continuing to work, with them to supply our troops in Afghanistan so that we can help with the overall security."
(John Kruzel of American Forces Press Service contributed to this article.)
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
On the Ground: Forces Work Toward Goals in Iraq
American Forces Press ServiceJune 24, 2009 - Iraqi and U.S. forces continued to make strides toward meeting the terms of the U.S.-Iraq security agreement in recent days with the transfer of a joint security station to Iraqi control and meetings that offered provincial leaders and female business owners an opportunity to pave the road ahead. The security agreement calls for the withdrawal of U.S. combat forces from Iraqi cities by June 30 and all U.S. combat troops from Iraq by 2011.
In Wasit province, U.S. forces handed over the responsibility of Joint Security Station Salaam, near Numaniyah, to the Iraqi army June 20.
"We celebrate today to receive the JSS in Numaniyah in accordance with the security agreement between Iraq and the American government," said Brig. Gen. Abed Gabr Mazloum, 32nd Iraqi Army Brigade commander.
The ceremony marked the turnover of the last security station in the province where soldiers of the 2nd Battalion, 20th Field Artillery Regiment, 41st Fires Brigade, worked in partnership with Iraqi security forces. The soldiers of the battalion's Battery A have controlled the station since August.
"I am proud of Alpha 2-20 for their partnership with both the Iraqi police and Iraqi army while they were here at JSS Salaam. You have prepared your [Iraqi security forces] brothers well," said Army Col. Dick Francey, 41st Fires Brigade commander.
Two other facilities in Wasit province will be handed over to Iraqi security forces this month -- JSS Aziziyah and Combat Outpost Summers.
Elsewhere, Army Col. Butch Kievenaar, commander of the 4th Infantry Division's 2nd Brigade Combat Team, met with sheiks from Basra province June 16 at the province's Basra Operations Center. The meeting focused on the security agreement and the way ahead. The commander touched on the closure of several bases, and how the closures pertain to the June 30 deadline.
"We are turning over this month two locations. They both will be handed over to the police before the end of the month," he said. Two other locations will continue to have a U.S. presence to train Iraqi security forces at the request of provincial leaders, he said.
The commander also highlighted the brigade's civic action initiatives aimed at improving quality of life. "Currently, we have 103 projects ongoing in the city of Basra," he noted.
The sheiks raised issues concerning agriculture, power and water distribution, and the continuation of projects once U.S. forces depart. Kievenaar said he is determined to keep the lines of communication open with the sheiks.
"What we are trying to do is open up communications between all of the tribal leaders and our forces so that there are no secrets and we are sharing information to provide an avenue to resolve any issues," he explained.
The security agreement also took center stage at a June 20 women's business seminar in Baghdad, coordinated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Gulf Region Division. About 30 Iraqi businesswomen attended the half-day event, part of a continuing series of meetings under the Women's Advocate Initiative.
"Our goal is to encourage and support Iraqi businesswomen to be more involved in the execution and management of construction and in nonconstruction projects," Richard Hancock, division's director of programs, told the audience.
The focus of the initiative was changed from construction projects to ongoing sustainment as building activities wind down in accordance with the security agreement, division officials said.
Andy Scharein, a program manager in the division's operations and maintenance section, encouraged the audience with the potential value of sustainment contracts.
"Normally, [operations and maintenance] is where a lot of money can be made, because a construction project may last a year and a half while building a facility, but for 10, 20 or 30 years or more, that facility will need to be cared for," Scharein said. "And 5 to 10 percent of what that facility cost is generally what we think it takes to take care of it. So, over time, it [means] stable employment and good money to be able to do these kinds of efforts."
Mohamad Husam, deputy program manager for the division's operations, maintenance and sustainment program, presented a history of the division's experience with 133 primary health care centers constructed across Iraq, and how maintaining them could mean business opportunities for Iraqi women. To jump-start that process, the division has committed to performing maintenance on 17 of the completed primary health care centers, which could be good news for women-owned businesses.
Four Iraqi businesswomen briefed the audience about the success of their projects arranged through division contracts. Hancock noted these projects were operations, maintenance and capacity development work for primary health care centers.
"In fact, 50 percent of contracts for primary health care facilities were won by women-owned businesses," Hancock said.
The women's business program began in 2005, and so far has directed $500 million to Iraqi businesswomen who perform service or construction contracts for various coalition forces and agencies operating in the country.
(Army Sgt. 1st Class Joe Thompson of the 41st Fires Brigade, Army Staff Sgt. Carlos M. Burger II of the 4th Infantry Division's 2nd Brigade Combat Team and Rick Haverinen of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Gulf Region Division contributed to this report.)
On the Ground: U.S. Forces Aid Afghan Counterparts
American Forces Press ServiceJune 24, 2009 - U.S. forces offered their support to Afghan forces June 18 in two separate missions: one aimed at boosting military skills and the other at providing aid to school children. A company of Afghan commandos, aided by U.S. soldiers, conducted a two-day "fast-roping" training course at Forward Operating Base Salerno, southeast of Kabul.
Helicopter-borne insertion, better known as air assault, is the movement of military forces to engage and destroy enemy forces or to seize and hold key terrain. Fast-roping is a technique for descending a thick rope, not unlike the one most Americans use in high school gym class. This technique is useful for deploying troops from a helicopter in places where the helicopter itself is unable to touch down.
With support and training from soldiers of Combined Joint Task Force Afghanistan and Task Force Attack, Afghan commandos from the 1st Company Commandos, 203rd Corps Commando Kandak, were instructed on proper techniques for fast-roping onto an objective and immediately securing the perimeter.
Trainees used a rope connected to a forklift before graduating to jumping from a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter.
Afghan Col. Ggulam Nabi, the commander of the 203rd, pointed out the importance of being trained in air assault.
"This is a tactical advantage we must learn," Nabi explained. "We need to be able to drop forces quickly into the fight. The helicopters can come and drop us onto difficult terrain like mountains, dense orchards and behind
the enemy without landing. Because of this, we need this training to eliminate terrorists and to defeat the enemies of Afghanistan."
Nabi said he hopes his commandos will be able to pass on the skills they learned to other commandos in the future.
Elsewhere, Afghan commandos of the 205th Corps and their coalition partners handed out school supplies and toys to children at a school near Kandahar Airfield in Kandahar province.
The commandos led the coordination and distribution efforts while coalition forces provided some of the school supplies and toys for more than 100 children.
"The commandos made all the students and teachers very happy today," said Mohammed Esa, the school principal. "We are very glad [they] came to help the children."
The supplies included book bags, pens, pencils, paper, notebooks, coloring books and crayons.
Though the distribution of school supplies isn't at the forefront of their responsibilities, Afghan 1st Lt. Mohammed Shifa said he enjoyed giving back to the community, which has been very supportive of the commandos' efforts.
"Our primary responsibilities are to look after the safety and security of the Afghan people," Shifa said. "Today, we are distributing these items and helping the children as representatives of the Afghan government. I'm quite happy we could do something for the children."
Shifa and the other commandos spoke to the children about the importance of a good education. He said the children should make it a point to learn about their nation's history and what their families have gone through.
Shifa said important messages were passed on to the children.
"We told the children the main enemies are the Taliban and opium," he said. "We said to inform us, the Afghan National Police or a government representative, if you see anybody doing the wrong thing."
The commandos also handed out soccer balls and volleyballs to the children.
"We are very grateful for the gifts and supplies," Esa said. "The commandos and coalition forces have been very good for the children at the school. These are all our children, and we thank [them] for the help they are providing."
(Army Sgt. Michael Armstrong of the 40th Public Affairs Detachment contributed to this article. Compiled from U.S. Forces Afghanistan news releases.)
Face of Defense: Marine Sings his Patriotism
By Marine Corps Cpl. M.M. BravoSpecial to American Forces Press Service
June 24, 2009 - Sitting in the desert, a thousand miles from home, an infantryman with 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, thinks about his lifetime and all the songs he wrote. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Stephen D. Davis, deployed to Iraq's Anbar province and winner of a recent talent show here, started playing the guitar when his parents bought him his first one when he was 10 years old. After learning a few chords from his dad, he spent a lot of time listening and watching others play, learning as he went.
He wrote his first song -- about his grandfather -- when he was 11 years old.
"My grandpa and my great grandpa were both in the Army, and my great grandpa was in World War II," Davis said. "He never really talked about this stuff all that much, but my grandpa was in the Army during the Cold War, and he used to always tell me he never did anything, but he would always talk about the sacrifice people put out for their country."
Davis, the eldest of seven children in his family, said most of his songs are patriotic and have been inspired by war veterans he's met and the stories they tell him.
"For some reason, I can talk to old people better than I can young people," he said. "It's almost like they're drawn to me for some reason. I like talking to them; I like hearing their stories and how stuff used to be compared to now.
"Most veterans come up and talk to me after they hear my songs," he continued. "They say they think it's a little weird, because all the songs I wrote, I wrote before I ever joined. And they think it's pretty cool that somebody who's never done anything wrote a song like that, and they all told me that I pretty much hit the way they feel about things right on the head -- like I'd actually been there or something."
Recalling the first patriotic song he wrote, Davis told the story of a youth conference he attended, held by Tim Lee, a former sergeant in the Marine Corps, who lost both of his legs in combat.
"They were out on patrol," he said. "One of his buddies was up in front of the patrol, and for some reason, [Lee] said he felt that he needed to be at the front of the patrol. So he told his buddy to get back, and he took point. Probably 10 minutes after that, he walked into a minefield, and he stepped on a mine and lost both his legs."
Davis said he met a homeless Vietnam veteran that same day who told him about the war and all the things that went on there that caused mental problems for him. When the man came home from war, the veteran told Davis, his family and friends disowned him.
"I just had that in the back of my head, and when I got back from the youth conference I was playing my guitar and just wrote down how [the veterans] made me feel, telling me their stories -- how I could see how they felt about all that.
"They're just people doing their jobs; some of them volunteered, some of them didn't," he continued. "They were just doing what they had to do, doing what they were told to do. And they get home and people hated them for it, and they really had no control over it at all."
Davis said his family always has been patriotic and had taught him that what America has is not free -- people had to pay for it.
"It's because of veterans who fought for our freedoms [that] we have all those rights," he said.
Davis said he joined the Marine Corps to give back to his country and to continue the legacy of all the men and women who fought before him.
"To me, people don't realize why we get to live as we do as Americans, so that's why I did it," he said.
At Marine Corps boot camp, Davis met Lance Cpl. Jeffery A. Cook. The two Marines formed a strong friendship throughout their training.
"It wasn't until [infantry school] that he and I became such good friends," said Cook, a machine gunner. "We were in the same platoon, ... and he just happened to have the rack right next to mine. We became closer, and after a few weeks we realized we had a lot more in common than we thought. Stephen is probably one of the most loyal friends I have. We were like brothers, and we were daily made fun of for always being by each other's side."
Both of them raised in the country, and enjoying country music comes with the territory, they said. Cook said he and Davis used to sing together, but that he didn't know how great a guitar player Davis was until they got to their first duty station.
"At boot camp and [infantry school], we would pass the time as best we could by singing every country song we knew," Cook said. "When we ran out of songs, we just made up new ones. I knew early on that he was an extremely talented singer, so when we got to the fleet and I heard him play the guitar, it wasn't much of a surprise. ... When he sings or plays, it makes you feel like you have something to live for. He's definitely an inspirational writer."
With different military occupational specialties and being in different platoons, the friends aren't together as much as they used to be, but they stay in touch as best they can.
"We still do our best to watch each other's backs, and I know if I ever need anything he is the first person I go to," Cook said. "I'm sure he feels the same way about me."
(Marine Corps Cpl. M.M. Bravo serves with the 2nd Marine Logistics Group.)
Manas Air Base Agreement Awaits Kyrgyz Parliament Vote
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
June 24, 2009 - The Kyrgyz parliament is expected to vote in the coming days on agreements reached between the United States and Kyrgyzstan governments to extend U.S. access to Manas Air Base, a logistics hub that supplies troops in Afghanistan, Pentagon Press Secretary Geoff Morrell confirmed today. While emphasizing that the United States is "not counting our chickens before they are hatched," Morrell expressed hope that the deal will go through.
If ratified, the agreements would provide for a transit center at Manas International Airport, operated by the United States, to provide logistical support to coalition forces in Afghanistan.
"We obviously are pleased that the Kyrgyz government has taken this agreement to its parliament to be ratified," Morrell said. "We anticipate that happening in the next couple of days, and we are ... very pleased with these developments."
The deal, if ratified, will reverse Kyrgyzstan's previous decision regarding the base.
Kyrgyzstan's foreign ministry notified the U.S. Embassy in the Kyrgyz capital of Bishkek in February that it had six months to leave Manas, a major logistical and refueling center that supports troops in Afghanistan. About 15,000 troops and 500 tons of cargo move through the base every month, and the base's importance has increased as more troops deploy into Afghanistan.
The decision was to end the arrangement the United States and Kyrgyzstan entered three years ago that gave the U.S. annually renewal rights through July 2011. The United States pays $17.4 million a year to use the base.
Morrell declined to specify how much the United States has agreed to pay to continue using the base, but said both countries appear satisfied with the renegotiated figure.
"We think it's to our mutual benefit," Morrell said. "They obviously have a great stake in what's happening in that region, as do we. And we look forward to continuing to work, with them, to supply our troops in Afghanistan, so that we can help with the overall security."
American Forces Press Service
June 24, 2009 - The Kyrgyz parliament is expected to vote in the coming days on agreements reached between the United States and Kyrgyzstan governments to extend U.S. access to Manas Air Base, a logistics hub that supplies troops in Afghanistan, Pentagon Press Secretary Geoff Morrell confirmed today. While emphasizing that the United States is "not counting our chickens before they are hatched," Morrell expressed hope that the deal will go through.
If ratified, the agreements would provide for a transit center at Manas International Airport, operated by the United States, to provide logistical support to coalition forces in Afghanistan.
"We obviously are pleased that the Kyrgyz government has taken this agreement to its parliament to be ratified," Morrell said. "We anticipate that happening in the next couple of days, and we are ... very pleased with these developments."
The deal, if ratified, will reverse Kyrgyzstan's previous decision regarding the base.
Kyrgyzstan's foreign ministry notified the U.S. Embassy in the Kyrgyz capital of Bishkek in February that it had six months to leave Manas, a major logistical and refueling center that supports troops in Afghanistan. About 15,000 troops and 500 tons of cargo move through the base every month, and the base's importance has increased as more troops deploy into Afghanistan.
The decision was to end the arrangement the United States and Kyrgyzstan entered three years ago that gave the U.S. annually renewal rights through July 2011. The United States pays $17.4 million a year to use the base.
Morrell declined to specify how much the United States has agreed to pay to continue using the base, but said both countries appear satisfied with the renegotiated figure.
"We think it's to our mutual benefit," Morrell said. "They obviously have a great stake in what's happening in that region, as do we. And we look forward to continuing to work, with them, to supply our troops in Afghanistan, so that we can help with the overall security."
CRB Weapons and WMD Terrorism News, June 24, 2009
[Helena Regional Medical Center] HRMC to join in a statewide disaster drill Wednesday [AR]
"Wednesday, June 24, Helena Regional Medical Center [HRMC] will participate in a statewide exercise designed to test the state's ability to respond to a large-scale public health crisis. The drill involves emergency preparedness planners from hospitals and state and local agencies statewide who plan to rehearse what they would do in the hours and days following an actual public health emergency, such as the release of a bioterrorism agent or the spread of a deadly communicable disease. During a four-hour drill [HRMC] will join forces with the Arkansas Department of Health's local county health unit and state and local government officials from all over Arkansas to test the state's response readiness. According to […] hospital administrator Tom Fewell, preparedness has been a priority for quite some time, but the complexity of response required in today's world presents some challenges for hospitals. […] The exercise will allow hospital emergency response planners across the state to evaluate their capacity to interact with other emergency responder groups using proper personnel, communications systems and operational abilities. […] The exercise will also allow local and state emergency responders to practice their interaction with the federal agencies, especially the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the CDC's Strategic National Stockpile (SNS)." (The Daily World; 23Jun09) http://www.helena-arkansas.com/homepage/x998780583/HRMC-to-join-in-a-statewide-disaster-drill-Wednesday
New bio-containment lab opens in Memphis [TN]
"A new weapon in the fight against infectious diseases is now up and running. The Regional Bio-Lab opened Monday, June 22, 2009, in Downtown Memphis. It's one of only 13 bio-containment labs funded by the National Institutes of Health. […] Researchers will use the new equipment in the lab to step up the fight against everything from bioterrorism to the flu. Dr. Helen Morrow with the Memphis Shelby County Health Department said, 'Germs are always out to get us. Sometimes of their own accord. Sometimes they are used against us […] and we can be proactive in finding ways to combat that.' Scientists will work at the lab to develop new vaccines and therapeutic drugs to protect you from possible epidemics." (abc24 CW30 Eyewitness News; 23Jun09) http://www.myeyewitnessnews.com/news/local/story/New-Bio-Containment-Lab-Opens-in-Memphis/glMJhOi0YU6-yLdCLEWbxQ.cspx
Ebola infection blocked in cells [Galveston, TX]
"Researchers from the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston have found a way to stop Ebola from infecting cells. [...] Researchers have been racing for decades to attempt to halt the tricking virus, but until now there has been limited success. However, a recent study published in Drug Discovery Research holds new promise. Though the experiment was only conducted in cell culture, it is the first time the virus has been stopped from infecting cells. [...] The experiment was a large-scale gene screen. By using a small interfering RNA (siRNA) technique to block over 700 genes one at a time or in combination, scientists investigated under which situations the virus was able to infect the cell. [...] Using a new computer system that searches for statistical significance in an siRNA experiment, they found two unique pathways that seemed to allowed the virus to infect the cell: the PI3 kinase pathway and the CAMK2 pathway. [...] 'With the real virus, we found that the PI3 kinase inhibitor dropped virus titers by 65 percent, and if we used drugs which block CAMK2 function, it was just killed - stopped dead,' [sic] [Dr. Robert] Davey said. 'This is really, very, very interesting because this pathway has a lot of potential for future pharmaceutical exploitation.' At the moment, Ebola is contained within Africa. However, it has long been viewed as a bioterrorism threat because of the efficiency with which it kills its victims." (Examiner; 24Jun09; Meg Marquardt) http://www.examiner.com/x-1242-Science-News-Examiner~y2009m6d24-Ebola-infection-blocked-in-cells
Disarmament cooperation with Russia: construction begins today on a new chemical weapons destruction plant in Pochep, German [Minister of Foreign Affairs] MFA announced
"Under a G8 initiative known as the Global Partnership against the Spread of Weapons and Materials of Mass Destruction, the German Government is supporting the destruction of Russian chemical weapons. In Pochep [Russia], the Federal Foreign Office is providing financing of up to 140 million euro for the construction of a building with technical equipment to incinerate reaction masses as well as residuals from the destruction of chemical weapons. In this building, after the chemical agents are removed, he munitions shells are also put beyond use. Pochep is home to the largest of Russia's seven declared chemical-weapon stockpiles. There are ome 7,500 tons of the nerve gases Vx, sarin and soman, most of which is contained in more than 67,000 shells. All of these stockpiles must be destroyed by the end of April 2012 in accordance with Russia's international-law obligations under the Chemical Weapons Convention. […] Chemical weapons destruction is due to begin in the early summer of 2010." (Isria; 22Jun09)
http://www.isria.com/pages/24June200912.htm
No public comment offered on arsenal's burn permit [Pine Bluff, AR]
"It appears that local residents don't have much to say about continued chemical weapons incineration. The Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality [ADEQ] held a meeting Monday at White Hall City Hall to give the public a chance to provide input on the Pine Bluff Arsenal's chemical weapons disposal permit renewal. Other than representatives of the arsenal's disposal facility and ADEQ, no one from the general public attended the meeting. In a brief presentation outlining the chemical weapons disposal process, ADEQ Deputy Director J. Ryan Benefield said the 45-day public comment period will remain open until July 7. If no comments are received, the permit will be issued as submitted. […] Those involved in the burn […] include ADEQ, the U.S. Army and the contractor hired for disposal, Washington Defense Group, EG&G Division of URS Corp. […] The facility is processing 905.5 lbs. of mustard per hour in its liquid incinerator and 318.75 lbs. per hour in its metal parts furnace. ADEQ approved a draft permit renewal May 21, allowing the facility to increase from 50 percent capacity to 75 percent." (Pine Bluff Commercial; 24Jun09;
Amy Riggin) http://www.pbcommercial.com/articles/2009/06/24/news/news5.txt
Serbs send nuclear fuel to Russia, citing security
"Serbia plans to ship thousands of kilograms of spent nuclear fuel to Russia as it seeks to avert security threats and decommission a research reactor. […] The Vinca Nuclear Institute […] will ship 2.5 tonnes of spent fuel rods and 13 kg of highly enriched uranium via Russia's state-run Rosatom corporation, deputy science minister Miroslav Veskovic said. 'We are concerned over security and safety,' Veskovic said in an interview, adding that the nuclear waste would be sent to Russia for reprocessing and storage. […] Veskovic acknowledged that while the Vinca material would be difficult to process into a weapons-grade substance, there was 'potential for a dirty bomb.'" (Reuters; 23Jun09; Aleksandar Vasovic)
http://www.reuters.com/article/latestCrisis/idUSLN86820
China: Sino-Singaporean joint exercise boosts military ties
"Chinese and Singaporean armed forces Wednesday concluded a joint training exercise, which […] would deepen pragmatic cooperation between the two forces. Aimed at improving counter-terrorism abilities, 'Cooperation 2009' began […] in the southwest Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region on Thursday. At the final drill […], 61 members from each side handled suspected 'bombs' left by 'international terrorists' in a simulated attack using radioactive contaminants, biological and chemical weapons on a world expo. […] The Chinese forces came from an anti-biochemical unit with the [People's Liberation Army] PLA's Guangzhou Military Command and their counterparts were from the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Explosives (CBRE) Defense Group with the 2nd People's Defense Force. […] 'During the training exercise, the officers and soldiers from both sides had close exchanges and observed each other's equipment and skills to fight terrorists [...],' [said] Senior Colonel Luo Mingcan, Chinese chief director of the exercise. 'Sharing radioactive, biological and chemical defense practices could greatly improve the military's ability to deal with more unconventional security threats.' […] Major-General Qi Jianguo, assistant to the PLA Chief of General Staff, said the exercise would enhance mutual trust between the two armed forces and promote bilateral military relations. Chief of Staff of the SAF Joint Chief Brigadier-General Chan Chun Sing […] hoped the SAF could have more opportunities for defense operation with the PLA." (Isria; 24Jun09)
http://www.isria.com/pages/24June2009124.htm
EU seeks to beef up defences against dirty-bomb [and WMD] attacks
"The European Commission unveiled Wednesday proposals to boost the continent's defences against the 'most frightenting scenario' of bio-terrorism or a dirty bomb attack. 'Terrorist groups acquiring weapons of mass destruction, including CBRN (chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear) materials is the most frightening scenario,' said EU Justice Commissioner Jacques Barrot. The proposals […] are aimed at preventing criminals from getting access to such materials, detecting them before they are misused and responding quickly and efficiently when an attack occurs. They include steps to protect potentially dangerous materials and reduce any risk they might be lost, boost the exchange on data between the 27 nations on security issues and train emergency workers to save lives and limit damage. […] An EU expert said the likelihood of such a strike is small, with the highest threat being posed by bio-terrorism. […] The expert said it was also important to develop an early warning system, and particularly one that would mobilise law enforcement agencies more effectively." (EU Business; 24Jun09)
http://www.eubusiness.com/news-eu/1245857522.94
Maha [State] Gov[ernment] to form panels to tackle nuclear, chemical attack [India]
"[The] Maharashtra Government has said it will set up committees to handle the situation in the event of any terror attack involving use of 'nuclear, chemical or biological weapons.' […] A committee has been formed under Industries Department Principal Secretary to handle attacks using chemical weapons. For tackling an attack using nuclear weapons, Principal Secretary (Home) would head a similar panel. The Principal Secretary (Medical Education) would head another panel to tackle a terror attack through biological weapons […] Similar committees would be set at district level." (Indiopia; 23Jun09)
http://www.indopia.in/India-usa-uk-news/latest-news/605610/Maharashtra/1/20/1
Mexico begins radiation detection operations at Lazaro Cardenas port
"The National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) and the Mexican Servicio de Administración Tributaria (SAT) today announced that new radiation detection equipment has been installed at one of Mexico's busiest seaports. Installed at the Port of Lazaro Cardenas, this new equipment is part of a global effort to implement President Obama's commitment to preventing nuclear terrorism by securing dangerous nuclear material around the world. The equipment will be used to help detect smuggled or illicit shipments of nuclear and other radioactive materials that might move through the port. […] This is the second of four Megaports to go operational in Mexico. […] Once all four Megaports are operational, an estimated 92-93% of Mexican imports and exports will be covered under the Megaports Initiative. The remaining percentage of trade transits through various smaller ports not covered by the program's scope. […] The Megaports Initiative is part of NNSA's Second Line of Defense Program, which aims to strengthen the capability of foreign governments to deter, detect, and interdict illicit trafficking in nuclear and other radioactive materials across international borders and through the global maritime shipping system. The Megaports Initiative provides radiation detection equipment, training, and technical support to key international seaports to scan cargo containers for nuclear and other radioactive materials. Around the world, the Megaports Initiative is currently operational in 23 ports and work is underway at over 20 additional ports. (U.S. National Nuclear Security Administration; 23Jun09)
http://nnsa.energy.gov/news/2401.htm
Defentect launches homeland security industry's first-to-market CBRNE sensor management platform [Norwalk, CT]
"Defentect […] announces the commercial launch of the homeland security industry's first fully integrated management, monitoring and messaging software platform, DM3 (TM). The DM3 platform coordinates control and management of multiple CBRNE (chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and explosive) sensors, coordinating the collection of data and facilitating response to an event. […] DM3 also affords a straightforward mechanism to add Defentect and third party threat sensors to existing security systems, resulting in a unified and cost-effective solution which detects threats and notifies both camera management systems and appropriate personnel of the event. […] 'Since DM3 and our sensors are IP-based, end users can easily add Defentect as well as many legacy threat sensors to existing security systems. It is delivered as a hosted application […] or can be licensed for installation on an end user's own system,' explained [Defentect President Frank] O'Connor." (Fox Business; 23Jun09; Source: Defentect)
http://www.foxbusiness.com/story/markets/industries/technology/defentect-launches-homeland-security-industrys-market-cbrne-sensor-management/
"Wednesday, June 24, Helena Regional Medical Center [HRMC] will participate in a statewide exercise designed to test the state's ability to respond to a large-scale public health crisis. The drill involves emergency preparedness planners from hospitals and state and local agencies statewide who plan to rehearse what they would do in the hours and days following an actual public health emergency, such as the release of a bioterrorism agent or the spread of a deadly communicable disease. During a four-hour drill [HRMC] will join forces with the Arkansas Department of Health's local county health unit and state and local government officials from all over Arkansas to test the state's response readiness. According to […] hospital administrator Tom Fewell, preparedness has been a priority for quite some time, but the complexity of response required in today's world presents some challenges for hospitals. […] The exercise will allow hospital emergency response planners across the state to evaluate their capacity to interact with other emergency responder groups using proper personnel, communications systems and operational abilities. […] The exercise will also allow local and state emergency responders to practice their interaction with the federal agencies, especially the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the CDC's Strategic National Stockpile (SNS)." (The Daily World; 23Jun09) http://www.helena-arkansas.com/homepage/x998780583/HRMC-to-join-in-a-statewide-disaster-drill-Wednesday
New bio-containment lab opens in Memphis [TN]
"A new weapon in the fight against infectious diseases is now up and running. The Regional Bio-Lab opened Monday, June 22, 2009, in Downtown Memphis. It's one of only 13 bio-containment labs funded by the National Institutes of Health. […] Researchers will use the new equipment in the lab to step up the fight against everything from bioterrorism to the flu. Dr. Helen Morrow with the Memphis Shelby County Health Department said, 'Germs are always out to get us. Sometimes of their own accord. Sometimes they are used against us […] and we can be proactive in finding ways to combat that.' Scientists will work at the lab to develop new vaccines and therapeutic drugs to protect you from possible epidemics." (abc24 CW30 Eyewitness News; 23Jun09) http://www.myeyewitnessnews.com/news/local/story/New-Bio-Containment-Lab-Opens-in-Memphis/glMJhOi0YU6-yLdCLEWbxQ.cspx
Ebola infection blocked in cells [Galveston, TX]
"Researchers from the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston have found a way to stop Ebola from infecting cells. [...] Researchers have been racing for decades to attempt to halt the tricking virus, but until now there has been limited success. However, a recent study published in Drug Discovery Research holds new promise. Though the experiment was only conducted in cell culture, it is the first time the virus has been stopped from infecting cells. [...] The experiment was a large-scale gene screen. By using a small interfering RNA (siRNA) technique to block over 700 genes one at a time or in combination, scientists investigated under which situations the virus was able to infect the cell. [...] Using a new computer system that searches for statistical significance in an siRNA experiment, they found two unique pathways that seemed to allowed the virus to infect the cell: the PI3 kinase pathway and the CAMK2 pathway. [...] 'With the real virus, we found that the PI3 kinase inhibitor dropped virus titers by 65 percent, and if we used drugs which block CAMK2 function, it was just killed - stopped dead,' [sic] [Dr. Robert] Davey said. 'This is really, very, very interesting because this pathway has a lot of potential for future pharmaceutical exploitation.' At the moment, Ebola is contained within Africa. However, it has long been viewed as a bioterrorism threat because of the efficiency with which it kills its victims." (Examiner; 24Jun09; Meg Marquardt) http://www.examiner.com/x-1242-Science-News-Examiner~y2009m6d24-Ebola-infection-blocked-in-cells
Disarmament cooperation with Russia: construction begins today on a new chemical weapons destruction plant in Pochep, German [Minister of Foreign Affairs] MFA announced
"Under a G8 initiative known as the Global Partnership against the Spread of Weapons and Materials of Mass Destruction, the German Government is supporting the destruction of Russian chemical weapons. In Pochep [Russia], the Federal Foreign Office is providing financing of up to 140 million euro for the construction of a building with technical equipment to incinerate reaction masses as well as residuals from the destruction of chemical weapons. In this building, after the chemical agents are removed, he munitions shells are also put beyond use. Pochep is home to the largest of Russia's seven declared chemical-weapon stockpiles. There are ome 7,500 tons of the nerve gases Vx, sarin and soman, most of which is contained in more than 67,000 shells. All of these stockpiles must be destroyed by the end of April 2012 in accordance with Russia's international-law obligations under the Chemical Weapons Convention. […] Chemical weapons destruction is due to begin in the early summer of 2010." (Isria; 22Jun09)
http://www.isria.com/pages/24June200912.htm
No public comment offered on arsenal's burn permit [Pine Bluff, AR]
"It appears that local residents don't have much to say about continued chemical weapons incineration. The Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality [ADEQ] held a meeting Monday at White Hall City Hall to give the public a chance to provide input on the Pine Bluff Arsenal's chemical weapons disposal permit renewal. Other than representatives of the arsenal's disposal facility and ADEQ, no one from the general public attended the meeting. In a brief presentation outlining the chemical weapons disposal process, ADEQ Deputy Director J. Ryan Benefield said the 45-day public comment period will remain open until July 7. If no comments are received, the permit will be issued as submitted. […] Those involved in the burn […] include ADEQ, the U.S. Army and the contractor hired for disposal, Washington Defense Group, EG&G Division of URS Corp. […] The facility is processing 905.5 lbs. of mustard per hour in its liquid incinerator and 318.75 lbs. per hour in its metal parts furnace. ADEQ approved a draft permit renewal May 21, allowing the facility to increase from 50 percent capacity to 75 percent." (Pine Bluff Commercial; 24Jun09;
Amy Riggin) http://www.pbcommercial.com/articles/2009/06/24/news/news5.txt
Serbs send nuclear fuel to Russia, citing security
"Serbia plans to ship thousands of kilograms of spent nuclear fuel to Russia as it seeks to avert security threats and decommission a research reactor. […] The Vinca Nuclear Institute […] will ship 2.5 tonnes of spent fuel rods and 13 kg of highly enriched uranium via Russia's state-run Rosatom corporation, deputy science minister Miroslav Veskovic said. 'We are concerned over security and safety,' Veskovic said in an interview, adding that the nuclear waste would be sent to Russia for reprocessing and storage. […] Veskovic acknowledged that while the Vinca material would be difficult to process into a weapons-grade substance, there was 'potential for a dirty bomb.'" (Reuters; 23Jun09; Aleksandar Vasovic)
http://www.reuters.com/article/latestCrisis/idUSLN86820
China: Sino-Singaporean joint exercise boosts military ties
"Chinese and Singaporean armed forces Wednesday concluded a joint training exercise, which […] would deepen pragmatic cooperation between the two forces. Aimed at improving counter-terrorism abilities, 'Cooperation 2009' began […] in the southwest Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region on Thursday. At the final drill […], 61 members from each side handled suspected 'bombs' left by 'international terrorists' in a simulated attack using radioactive contaminants, biological and chemical weapons on a world expo. […] The Chinese forces came from an anti-biochemical unit with the [People's Liberation Army] PLA's Guangzhou Military Command and their counterparts were from the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Explosives (CBRE) Defense Group with the 2nd People's Defense Force. […] 'During the training exercise, the officers and soldiers from both sides had close exchanges and observed each other's equipment and skills to fight terrorists [...],' [said] Senior Colonel Luo Mingcan, Chinese chief director of the exercise. 'Sharing radioactive, biological and chemical defense practices could greatly improve the military's ability to deal with more unconventional security threats.' […] Major-General Qi Jianguo, assistant to the PLA Chief of General Staff, said the exercise would enhance mutual trust between the two armed forces and promote bilateral military relations. Chief of Staff of the SAF Joint Chief Brigadier-General Chan Chun Sing […] hoped the SAF could have more opportunities for defense operation with the PLA." (Isria; 24Jun09)
http://www.isria.com/pages/24June2009124.htm
EU seeks to beef up defences against dirty-bomb [and WMD] attacks
"The European Commission unveiled Wednesday proposals to boost the continent's defences against the 'most frightenting scenario' of bio-terrorism or a dirty bomb attack. 'Terrorist groups acquiring weapons of mass destruction, including CBRN (chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear) materials is the most frightening scenario,' said EU Justice Commissioner Jacques Barrot. The proposals […] are aimed at preventing criminals from getting access to such materials, detecting them before they are misused and responding quickly and efficiently when an attack occurs. They include steps to protect potentially dangerous materials and reduce any risk they might be lost, boost the exchange on data between the 27 nations on security issues and train emergency workers to save lives and limit damage. […] An EU expert said the likelihood of such a strike is small, with the highest threat being posed by bio-terrorism. […] The expert said it was also important to develop an early warning system, and particularly one that would mobilise law enforcement agencies more effectively." (EU Business; 24Jun09)
http://www.eubusiness.com/news-eu/1245857522.94
Maha [State] Gov[ernment] to form panels to tackle nuclear, chemical attack [India]
"[The] Maharashtra Government has said it will set up committees to handle the situation in the event of any terror attack involving use of 'nuclear, chemical or biological weapons.' […] A committee has been formed under Industries Department Principal Secretary to handle attacks using chemical weapons. For tackling an attack using nuclear weapons, Principal Secretary (Home) would head a similar panel. The Principal Secretary (Medical Education) would head another panel to tackle a terror attack through biological weapons […] Similar committees would be set at district level." (Indiopia; 23Jun09)
http://www.indopia.in/India-usa-uk-news/latest-news/605610/Maharashtra/1/20/1
Mexico begins radiation detection operations at Lazaro Cardenas port
"The National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) and the Mexican Servicio de Administración Tributaria (SAT) today announced that new radiation detection equipment has been installed at one of Mexico's busiest seaports. Installed at the Port of Lazaro Cardenas, this new equipment is part of a global effort to implement President Obama's commitment to preventing nuclear terrorism by securing dangerous nuclear material around the world. The equipment will be used to help detect smuggled or illicit shipments of nuclear and other radioactive materials that might move through the port. […] This is the second of four Megaports to go operational in Mexico. […] Once all four Megaports are operational, an estimated 92-93% of Mexican imports and exports will be covered under the Megaports Initiative. The remaining percentage of trade transits through various smaller ports not covered by the program's scope. […] The Megaports Initiative is part of NNSA's Second Line of Defense Program, which aims to strengthen the capability of foreign governments to deter, detect, and interdict illicit trafficking in nuclear and other radioactive materials across international borders and through the global maritime shipping system. The Megaports Initiative provides radiation detection equipment, training, and technical support to key international seaports to scan cargo containers for nuclear and other radioactive materials. Around the world, the Megaports Initiative is currently operational in 23 ports and work is underway at over 20 additional ports. (U.S. National Nuclear Security Administration; 23Jun09)
http://nnsa.energy.gov/news/2401.htm
Defentect launches homeland security industry's first-to-market CBRNE sensor management platform [Norwalk, CT]
"Defentect […] announces the commercial launch of the homeland security industry's first fully integrated management, monitoring and messaging software platform, DM3 (TM). The DM3 platform coordinates control and management of multiple CBRNE (chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and explosive) sensors, coordinating the collection of data and facilitating response to an event. […] DM3 also affords a straightforward mechanism to add Defentect and third party threat sensors to existing security systems, resulting in a unified and cost-effective solution which detects threats and notifies both camera management systems and appropriate personnel of the event. […] 'Since DM3 and our sensors are IP-based, end users can easily add Defentect as well as many legacy threat sensors to existing security systems. It is delivered as a hosted application […] or can be licensed for installation on an end user's own system,' explained [Defentect President Frank] O'Connor." (Fox Business; 23Jun09; Source: Defentect)
http://www.foxbusiness.com/story/markets/industries/technology/defentect-launches-homeland-security-industrys-market-cbrne-sensor-management/
Increased Violence Expected as U.S. Troops Leave Iraqi Cities
By Donna Miles
American Forces Press Service
June 24, 2009 - Predicting an uptick in violence in Iraq as U.S. combat troops leave the cities by June 30, Pentagon Press Secretary Geoff Morrell said today that deployed troops have geared up for the heightened threat as they comply with the U.S.-Iraq status of forces agreement. "I think we have reason to believe -- and I think our forces have been alerted to the possibility -- that we will likely see an uptick in violence leading up to the June 30 deadline for U.S. combat forces to leave Iraqi cities and towns," Morrell told Pentagon reporters.
He cited past patterns in which terrorists and insurgents increased their attacks in the days leading up to elections and other significant milestones.
Recent incidents in Iraq, including the "horrific" bombing south of Kirkuk last weekend, also indicate a possible repeat before U.S. combat troops leave urban areas in accordance with the U.S.-Iraqi status of forces agreement, Morrell said.
Army Gen. Raymond T. Odierno, commander of Multinational Force Iraq, has expressed confidence in the capabilities of both his forces and the Iraqi security forces to deal with the increased threat level, Morrell said. As combat troops leave the cities, they'll form "layers of defense" outside the urban areas and continue to conduct combat operations with Iraqi security forces.
However, smaller contingents of U.S. troops will remain behind to support the Iraqi security forces until they're no longer needed. "This is going to be a coordinate/train/advise/assist role," he said. "So we'll really be there as a complement to them."
Morrell cited progress in improving security in Iraq and helping the Iraqi security forces develop capacity.
"Security incidents, despite that awful attack, remain at all-time lows since March of 2003," he said. "So despite the fact that you've seen sporadic high-profile attacks still taking place in Iraq, the overall security climate is a good one."
Morrell stopped short of declaring victory over the insurgency. "We think we have beaten back al-Qaida to the point where they are now conducting attacks that are basically propaganda campaigns in an attempt to make it look as though they are driving us out of the Iraqi cities," he said. "In fact, the truth of the matter is that ... the work of our brave men and women in uniform over the past couple years has created a climate such that we can leave Iraqi cities, and the Iraqi security forces are developed to the point where they are capable of taking over that responsibility."
Meanwhile, progress has continued on the economic and political fronts as well.
"All those things are improvements," Morrell said. "And we signed a security agreement with the Iraqis nearly a year ago in which they asked us to stay in Iraq for the next three years to help them continue to build upon that momentum.
"We view that obligation seriously, and we intend to honor it," he added.
American Forces Press Service
June 24, 2009 - Predicting an uptick in violence in Iraq as U.S. combat troops leave the cities by June 30, Pentagon Press Secretary Geoff Morrell said today that deployed troops have geared up for the heightened threat as they comply with the U.S.-Iraq status of forces agreement. "I think we have reason to believe -- and I think our forces have been alerted to the possibility -- that we will likely see an uptick in violence leading up to the June 30 deadline for U.S. combat forces to leave Iraqi cities and towns," Morrell told Pentagon reporters.
He cited past patterns in which terrorists and insurgents increased their attacks in the days leading up to elections and other significant milestones.
Recent incidents in Iraq, including the "horrific" bombing south of Kirkuk last weekend, also indicate a possible repeat before U.S. combat troops leave urban areas in accordance with the U.S.-Iraqi status of forces agreement, Morrell said.
Army Gen. Raymond T. Odierno, commander of Multinational Force Iraq, has expressed confidence in the capabilities of both his forces and the Iraqi security forces to deal with the increased threat level, Morrell said. As combat troops leave the cities, they'll form "layers of defense" outside the urban areas and continue to conduct combat operations with Iraqi security forces.
However, smaller contingents of U.S. troops will remain behind to support the Iraqi security forces until they're no longer needed. "This is going to be a coordinate/train/advise/assist role," he said. "So we'll really be there as a complement to them."
Morrell cited progress in improving security in Iraq and helping the Iraqi security forces develop capacity.
"Security incidents, despite that awful attack, remain at all-time lows since March of 2003," he said. "So despite the fact that you've seen sporadic high-profile attacks still taking place in Iraq, the overall security climate is a good one."
Morrell stopped short of declaring victory over the insurgency. "We think we have beaten back al-Qaida to the point where they are now conducting attacks that are basically propaganda campaigns in an attempt to make it look as though they are driving us out of the Iraqi cities," he said. "In fact, the truth of the matter is that ... the work of our brave men and women in uniform over the past couple years has created a climate such that we can leave Iraqi cities, and the Iraqi security forces are developed to the point where they are capable of taking over that responsibility."
Meanwhile, progress has continued on the economic and political fronts as well.
"All those things are improvements," Morrell said. "And we signed a security agreement with the Iraqis nearly a year ago in which they asked us to stay in Iraq for the next three years to help them continue to build upon that momentum.
"We view that obligation seriously, and we intend to honor it," he added.
Afghanistan Strategy Fuels 'Unprecedented' Government Cooperation
By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service
June 24, 2009 - The Afghanistan-Pakistan strategy unveiled earlier this year has garnered unprecedented cooperation among U.S. government agencies, the top Pentagon policy official said today. Michelle Flournoy, undersecretary of defense for policy, said in a statement submitted to the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee that a "whole of government" approach to the region is being coordinated.
"We have launched what I believe is a truly unprecedented interagency effort to implement our new strategy," states Flournoy's testimony, which Wallace "Chip" Gregson, assistant secretary of defense for Asian and Pacific security affairs, read to Congress today on behalf of Flournoy, who is traveling in Asia.
A whole-of-government approach reflects a foreign policy philosophy that military effort should be complemented with diplomacy, economic aid and other instruments of state power if a comprehensive strategy is to be effective.
This, in addition to reliance on international partnerships, is a core component of the Afghanistan-Pakistan strategy that President Barack Obama's administration made public in March. Reversing insurgents' gains and securing the population, helping to build a self-reliant Afghan security force, and providing a secure environment in which Afghan governance and development programs can take root and grow are its top priorities.
"Doing all those things isn't strictly -- or even primarily -- a task for the U.S. military, though our military has a vital role to play," Flournoy said. "The challenges we face in Afghanistan and Pakistan are economic, diplomatic and informational as well as military. ... To succeed, we must make good use of all elements of national power, military, diplomatic, and economic."
In the midst of arranging the comprehensive approach, Flournoy said, the United States is clarifying agency responsibilities, synchronizing the various government efforts and resources, and developing measures of effectiveness to determine what's working and what needs changing.
On one hand, U.S. officials must articulate clear guidance that is coordinated from the top down, Flournoy said. But power brokers in Washington must understand the limits of centralized planning.
"That's why this administration has been so focused on identifying and empowering key senior leaders, military and civilian, both at the theater level and in country," she said. Operationally, the United States is refining the civil-military plan designed to help in achieving the unity of effort needed, while delegating as much authority as possible to local actors, she added.
In her remarks, Flournoy cited the interagency team headed by Ambassador Richard Holbrooke, special envoy to Afghanistan and Pakistan, as an example of the kind of coordination necessary.
"It is staffed by talented individuals drawn from many different departments and agencies," she said, including the departments of Defense and Agriculture and the U.S. Agency for International Development. Several top Defense Department regional experts and military officers are on loan to Holbrooke's team, Flournoy added.
Flournoy underscored the important role Washington plays in overseeing the efforts.
"Even as we have empowered senior leaders in the field, we recognize that their work must be accompanied by ongoing and intensive senior level support and oversight here in Washington," she said. "We have established interagency working groups at every level, from frequent Principals and Deputies Committee meetings down to highly specialized interagency working groups."
Though today's hearing and other oversight measures are only four months in the making, Flournoy noted, she expressed optimism at the way the comprehensive approach is evolving.
"We still have a lot of work ahead of us as we continue to build efficient and effective coordination structures," she said. "But I want to emphasize that we've already achieved a genuinely unprecedented level of interagency cooperation."
American Forces Press Service
June 24, 2009 - The Afghanistan-Pakistan strategy unveiled earlier this year has garnered unprecedented cooperation among U.S. government agencies, the top Pentagon policy official said today. Michelle Flournoy, undersecretary of defense for policy, said in a statement submitted to the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee that a "whole of government" approach to the region is being coordinated.
"We have launched what I believe is a truly unprecedented interagency effort to implement our new strategy," states Flournoy's testimony, which Wallace "Chip" Gregson, assistant secretary of defense for Asian and Pacific security affairs, read to Congress today on behalf of Flournoy, who is traveling in Asia.
A whole-of-government approach reflects a foreign policy philosophy that military effort should be complemented with diplomacy, economic aid and other instruments of state power if a comprehensive strategy is to be effective.
This, in addition to reliance on international partnerships, is a core component of the Afghanistan-Pakistan strategy that President Barack Obama's administration made public in March. Reversing insurgents' gains and securing the population, helping to build a self-reliant Afghan security force, and providing a secure environment in which Afghan governance and development programs can take root and grow are its top priorities.
"Doing all those things isn't strictly -- or even primarily -- a task for the U.S. military, though our military has a vital role to play," Flournoy said. "The challenges we face in Afghanistan and Pakistan are economic, diplomatic and informational as well as military. ... To succeed, we must make good use of all elements of national power, military, diplomatic, and economic."
In the midst of arranging the comprehensive approach, Flournoy said, the United States is clarifying agency responsibilities, synchronizing the various government efforts and resources, and developing measures of effectiveness to determine what's working and what needs changing.
On one hand, U.S. officials must articulate clear guidance that is coordinated from the top down, Flournoy said. But power brokers in Washington must understand the limits of centralized planning.
"That's why this administration has been so focused on identifying and empowering key senior leaders, military and civilian, both at the theater level and in country," she said. Operationally, the United States is refining the civil-military plan designed to help in achieving the unity of effort needed, while delegating as much authority as possible to local actors, she added.
In her remarks, Flournoy cited the interagency team headed by Ambassador Richard Holbrooke, special envoy to Afghanistan and Pakistan, as an example of the kind of coordination necessary.
"It is staffed by talented individuals drawn from many different departments and agencies," she said, including the departments of Defense and Agriculture and the U.S. Agency for International Development. Several top Defense Department regional experts and military officers are on loan to Holbrooke's team, Flournoy added.
Flournoy underscored the important role Washington plays in overseeing the efforts.
"Even as we have empowered senior leaders in the field, we recognize that their work must be accompanied by ongoing and intensive senior level support and oversight here in Washington," she said. "We have established interagency working groups at every level, from frequent Principals and Deputies Committee meetings down to highly specialized interagency working groups."
Though today's hearing and other oversight measures are only four months in the making, Flournoy noted, she expressed optimism at the way the comprehensive approach is evolving.
"We still have a lot of work ahead of us as we continue to build efficient and effective coordination structures," she said. "But I want to emphasize that we've already achieved a genuinely unprecedented level of interagency cooperation."
Iraqi, Coalition Forces Arrest Terror Suspects
American Forces Press Service
June 24, 2009 - Iraqi forces and coalition advisors arrested suspected terrorists, including a senior leader, in operations in Iraq in the past five days, military officials reported. Yesterday, Iraqi police from the Basra special weapons and tactics team, aided by coalition advisors, arrested a suspected terrorist during an Iraqi-led operation in southern Iraq. The man is suspected in the development and use of roadside bombs and indirect-fire attacks against Iraqi and coalition forces in Maysan province.
Southwest of Baghdad, the Emergency Response Brigade, an elite police force, and coalition advisors arrested three suspected terrorists June 22 in Amariyah. The forces arrested the suspected terrorists, including an alleged senior-level leader, for their involvement in the facilitation and approval of multiple suicide bombings.
In Mahmudiyah, south of Baghdad, an element of Iraqi special operations forces, aided by coalition forces, arrested a suspected insurgent June 20. The suspect is believed to be responsible for supervising insurgent operations in the Baghdad area.
In separate operations in Ninevah province:
-- Iraqi forces and coalition advisors arrested two suspected terrorists June 21. The men are suspected of funding anti-Iraqi operations, smuggling, sniper attacks and indirect-fire attacks against Iraqi and coalition forces in Mosul.
-- Iraqi forces, aided by coalition advisors, arrested two suspected terrorists June 20. The suspected terrorists are believed to have led terrorist cells that facilitate attacks against Iraqi security forces in Mosul.
The Mosul SWAT team, along with coalition advisors, arrested a suspected financier and weapons smuggler June 19. According to military reports, his arrest is expected to disrupt terrorist activities in the province.
(Compiled from Multinational Corps Iraq news releases.)
June 24, 2009 - Iraqi forces and coalition advisors arrested suspected terrorists, including a senior leader, in operations in Iraq in the past five days, military officials reported. Yesterday, Iraqi police from the Basra special weapons and tactics team, aided by coalition advisors, arrested a suspected terrorist during an Iraqi-led operation in southern Iraq. The man is suspected in the development and use of roadside bombs and indirect-fire attacks against Iraqi and coalition forces in Maysan province.
Southwest of Baghdad, the Emergency Response Brigade, an elite police force, and coalition advisors arrested three suspected terrorists June 22 in Amariyah. The forces arrested the suspected terrorists, including an alleged senior-level leader, for their involvement in the facilitation and approval of multiple suicide bombings.
In Mahmudiyah, south of Baghdad, an element of Iraqi special operations forces, aided by coalition forces, arrested a suspected insurgent June 20. The suspect is believed to be responsible for supervising insurgent operations in the Baghdad area.
In separate operations in Ninevah province:
-- Iraqi forces and coalition advisors arrested two suspected terrorists June 21. The men are suspected of funding anti-Iraqi operations, smuggling, sniper attacks and indirect-fire attacks against Iraqi and coalition forces in Mosul.
-- Iraqi forces, aided by coalition advisors, arrested two suspected terrorists June 20. The suspected terrorists are believed to have led terrorist cells that facilitate attacks against Iraqi security forces in Mosul.
The Mosul SWAT team, along with coalition advisors, arrested a suspected financier and weapons smuggler June 19. According to military reports, his arrest is expected to disrupt terrorist activities in the province.
(Compiled from Multinational Corps Iraq news releases.)
Medevac Crew Stays Ready in Iraq
By Army Sgt. Travis ZielinskiSpecial to American Forces Press Service
June 24, 2009 - The phone rings, and silence fills the room. All eyes and ears become focused on the soldier answering. The word "urgent" is uttered, and the sequence begins. Aircrews scramble as shouts of "Mission!" echo through the hallway. A once-quiet building now is filled with the commotion of a well-organized and practiced procedure.
Depending on the type of call, the 1st Cavalry Division medical evacuation aircrews of Company C, 2nd Battalion, 1st Air Cavalry Brigade, have time limits from when they receive a call to when they leave the ground en route to the point of injury. During an urgent call, the aircrews have just minutes to leave the ground.
"Once the 'nine-line' medevac [request] is received, the crew chief and a pilot will grab their gear, head out to the aircraft and prep it up to the point of engine start," said Army Capt. Alek Finley, the company's medevac detachment officer in charge.
During that process, the pilot in command checks grid coordinates and plans the route to the pick-up while the medic gets follow-up information from the unit about the patient, Finley said.
"As soon as the pilot in command hits the seat, the engines are started and the aircraft taxis out," he said. "If it is an urgent medevac, we will let the tower know, and they will pretty much clear up all the airspace for us."
The short time period before take-off is critical for the medics to learn as much as possible about the situation.
"Right off the bat, I go into [operations] and find out where we are going, what the unit's call sign is, what the nature of the injury is and any additional equipment that we need to bring with us," said Sgt. Karen Henson, a flight medic.
Being a medic in a flight company, she added, it is important to make the most of the available time. With the short flight time between areas, she explained, medics have to be prepared to deal with whatever situation comes their way.
"When we get three to four minutes out, I will give them a call -- one, to let them know that we are inbound so they can get the soldier packaged, just so we can spend the least amount of time on the ground, and two, to get a patient update," Henson said.
For this mission, the medic said, all she knew was that the situation was urgent and the patient had taken shrapnel to the hands and legs. "So getting an update on this one gets me in the mindset of what I need to be prepared for," Henson said, "and I waste the least amount of time possible once the patient is in my care."
The medevac pilots have a great deal of experience, and they never take their role lightly, Finley said.
"Once we are a minute inbound, all the talking and all the chatter stops," he said. "It is like game time – it's time to focus on what's going on.
"Typically, you do some type of recon," he continued. "You will fly over the [landing zone], especially if it is some place you have never been to before. It is just to try and give everyone as much situational awareness that you can, and then you commit to the landing."
The crew's patient had received initial treatment at a troop medical clinic before coming into the care of the brigade's medevac unit for transportation to the 10th Combat Support Hospital in Baghdad.
"It is important to constantly check the wounds, vitals and the alertness level of the injured soldier to ensure his condition does not degrade," Henson said.
Time is an extremely valuable commodity when a soldier suffers a serious injury in combat, and medevac soldiers know not to waste it. Henson said it took the medevac crew less than a half hour to transport their patient from the troop medical clinic to the hospital, including the time spent on the ground.
The medevac aircrew's mission is complete once the patient and all of the critical information are handed over to the new provider.
"After that, we either head back home, or sometimes we can get a follow-on mission and the whole process starts all over again," Finley said. "This is probably the most rewarding job I could think of in the Army."
Ground soldiers usually don't leave their base unless they know the medevac unit is flying, Finley said.
"[They] think about us whenever they do missions," he added. "One of the questions they check the box on during planning is, 'Hey is medevac up?' It is a pretty important piece to the puzzle for the ground commanders."
The Company C pilots, crew chiefs and medics have a great sense of pride knowing they are helping soldiers get through life-threatening situations.
"Being a medic, you can go to sleep at night knowing that you made a difference, knowing that this guy will be able to go home and see his mother, his wife, his sister and continue to live his life," Henson said. "It gives you a warm and fuzzy feeling."
(Army Sgt. Travis Zielinski serves with the 1st Cavalry Division's 1st Air Cavalry Brigade public affairs office.)
Afghanistan Opens First National Park
By Army Sgt. Sean C. Finch
Special to American Forces Press Service
June 24, 2009 - Gov. Habbiba Sarobi of Afghanistan's Bamyan province hosted the grand opening for the country's first national park June 18. Guests and dignitaries from the U.S. embassy gathered with government officials from throughout Afghanistan to cut the ribbon symbolizing the opening of the national park and reserve at the Band-e-Amir Lakes natural dam.
"This inauguration symbolizes a turning point in our history and future," Sarobi said. "We should recognize this moment as a realization of not only the natural beauty, but of the significance of its promise for the future of our area."
Among those in attendance were U.S. Ambassador to Afghanistan Karl Eikenberry, who was making his first trip to Bamyan, and Army Brig. Gen. William Mayville, deputy commanding general of support for Combined Joint Task Force 82, who noted the area's natural beauty and tranquillity.
"This place is so serene, and truly a marvel to look at," Mayville said. The lakes form a unique attraction in the mountainous Bamyan region. Formed by glacier water nearly 400 feet in depth, they give the appearance of being cut from the stone that forms the mountains around them.
After a presentation from the officials at the ceremony, guests of the inauguration were treated to rides on paddle boats and a meal.
"This has been a day that I will long remember, as a look toward the future of our country," said Second Vice President of Afghanistan Kareem Khalili. "The air, the pure water and the true peace of this place is something that everyone should be able to enjoy."
Sarobi spoke optimistically about the future of the national park and how new roads built by the New Zealand-led provincial reconstruction team and Task Force Warrior will provide access to the park and its many resources.
"Everyone should be able to experience this, and I hope that the roads are completed soon so that we can share this wonderful sight with all the citizens of Afghanistan," Sarobi said.
(Army Sgt. Sean C. Finch serves in the Task Force Warrior public affairs office.)
Special to American Forces Press Service
June 24, 2009 - Gov. Habbiba Sarobi of Afghanistan's Bamyan province hosted the grand opening for the country's first national park June 18. Guests and dignitaries from the U.S. embassy gathered with government officials from throughout Afghanistan to cut the ribbon symbolizing the opening of the national park and reserve at the Band-e-Amir Lakes natural dam.
"This inauguration symbolizes a turning point in our history and future," Sarobi said. "We should recognize this moment as a realization of not only the natural beauty, but of the significance of its promise for the future of our area."
Among those in attendance were U.S. Ambassador to Afghanistan Karl Eikenberry, who was making his first trip to Bamyan, and Army Brig. Gen. William Mayville, deputy commanding general of support for Combined Joint Task Force 82, who noted the area's natural beauty and tranquillity.
"This place is so serene, and truly a marvel to look at," Mayville said. The lakes form a unique attraction in the mountainous Bamyan region. Formed by glacier water nearly 400 feet in depth, they give the appearance of being cut from the stone that forms the mountains around them.
After a presentation from the officials at the ceremony, guests of the inauguration were treated to rides on paddle boats and a meal.
"This has been a day that I will long remember, as a look toward the future of our country," said Second Vice President of Afghanistan Kareem Khalili. "The air, the pure water and the true peace of this place is something that everyone should be able to enjoy."
Sarobi spoke optimistically about the future of the national park and how new roads built by the New Zealand-led provincial reconstruction team and Task Force Warrior will provide access to the park and its many resources.
"Everyone should be able to experience this, and I hope that the roads are completed soon so that we can share this wonderful sight with all the citizens of Afghanistan," Sarobi said.
(Army Sgt. Sean C. Finch serves in the Task Force Warrior public affairs office.)
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
'Crazy Troop' Soldiers Work With Iraqis to Strengthen Borders
By Army Staff Sgt. Rodney FolienteSpecial to American Forces Press Service
June 23, 2009 - Soldiers with the 4th Infantry Division's 2nd Brigade Combat Team say they are seeing big improvements in the Iraqis' ability to secure their country's borders.
The soldiers of "Crazy Troop", 1st Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment, are currently working with Iraqi border security forces near Forward Operating Base Minden.
The troop has been providing additional security at a border entry point, monitoring the steady flow of people leaving and entering Iraq and working with the civilian and military teams to professionalize Iraq's border security forces.
"We're working by, with and through the Iraqi border security forces to get them up to speed," said Army Sgt. 1st Class Matthew Maloy, 2nd Platoon sergeant, C Troop. "I think our mission is one of the best missions the brigade currently has."
"Our soldiers are more than up to the task. They are motivated, put in long hours, don't complain, get the job done, and I think they are some of the best soldiers in the Army," he said proudly.
The cavalry soldiers and the Iraqi border security forces have been working well together, said Maloy, of St. Johns, Ariz. He said the Iraqis have been working hard and show their determination to protect their fellow citizens.
"We work together for the people of Iraq," said Ali, a border security forces member, as he smiled and pointed to himself and U.S. soldiers.
"I love working with these guys. We're getting to know each other pretty well and are building good working relationships," said Army Spc. Adam Sugg, a cavalry scout with C Troop.
"It makes me feel like we're doing something really important here. If not for us, Iraqis and Americans, there'd be a greater chance that more threats would get past the border to hurt more people," said Sugg, of Suffolk, Va.
"Our mission is to provide security for military and civilian teams out here and to assist in professionalizing the Iraqi border security forces," said Army 2nd Lt. Cody John, 2nd Platoon leader, C Troop. In only a short time, he said, he has seen improvements in the forces' performance and is optimistic of their future capabilities to maintain border security without assistance.
"If, at the end of each day, the Iraqis are a little better at doing their jobs by themselves, it means we're doing our job and makes it all worthwhile," John said.
(Army Staff Sgt. Rodney Foliente serves with the 4th Infantry Division's 2nd Brigade Combat Team public affairs office.)
Afghan Forces Destroy Narcotics, Weapons Caches
American Forces Press Service
June 23, 2009 - Afghan army and public protection forces led several operations today and yesterday that removed drugs, weapons and explosives in eastern Afghanistan, military officials reported. Afghan National Army commandos, assisted by coalition forces, destroyed a large weapons cache today in the Spira district of Khost province.
The Afghan-led force, assisted by coalition troops, was conducting a search-and-clear operation in the area when villagers reported the presence of the weapons cache. The team discovered rocket-propelled grenades and mortar rounds hidden in a mountainside cave.
Elsewhere, in the Chalikor Valley of Zabol province, the Afghan commandos and soldiers today discovered 1,100 pounds of opium and 1,600 pounds of ammonium nitrate while conducting clearing operations in an area known for militant activity.
The partnered forces destroyed the weapons and narcotic caches on site after ensuring the area was free of noncombatants.
Yesterday in Afghanistan:
- Afghan National Army commandos and soldiers with Afghanistan's 205th Corps seized 300 pounds of black-tar opium in Zabol province's Chalikor valley while searching a well-known militant safe-haven. One man was detained without incident.
- Afghan citizens approached a checkpoint and told Afghan Public Protection Force members they'd observed insurgents unloading multiple gallon jugs and placing a homemade bomb under a bridge during the night. The protection force secured the site until the Afghan National Police arrived to disconnect the bomb and recover the cell phone to which it was connected.
It was the first use of the protection force in Wardak province's Nerkh district.
- Afghan national security forces, assisted by coalition forces, were conducting security operations in Khost province when they were approached by residents who informed them of homemade bombs emplaced in a school in the city of Porekah.
Forces discovered that militants had placed four bombs in the building, three of which had detonated and damaged the school earlier in the day. The forces located, removed and disarmed the last bomb before it could explode.
In the skies over Afghanistan yesterday, 79 close-air support missions were flown in support of the International Security Assistance Force and Afghan security forces, reconstruction activities and route patrols. Twenty-two Air Force surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft flew missions as part of operations in Afghanistan. In addition, two Navy aircraft performed tactical reconnaissance.
(Compiled from U.S. Forces Afghanistan and Combined Air and Space Operations Center news releases.)
June 23, 2009 - Afghan army and public protection forces led several operations today and yesterday that removed drugs, weapons and explosives in eastern Afghanistan, military officials reported. Afghan National Army commandos, assisted by coalition forces, destroyed a large weapons cache today in the Spira district of Khost province.
The Afghan-led force, assisted by coalition troops, was conducting a search-and-clear operation in the area when villagers reported the presence of the weapons cache. The team discovered rocket-propelled grenades and mortar rounds hidden in a mountainside cave.
Elsewhere, in the Chalikor Valley of Zabol province, the Afghan commandos and soldiers today discovered 1,100 pounds of opium and 1,600 pounds of ammonium nitrate while conducting clearing operations in an area known for militant activity.
The partnered forces destroyed the weapons and narcotic caches on site after ensuring the area was free of noncombatants.
Yesterday in Afghanistan:
- Afghan National Army commandos and soldiers with Afghanistan's 205th Corps seized 300 pounds of black-tar opium in Zabol province's Chalikor valley while searching a well-known militant safe-haven. One man was detained without incident.
- Afghan citizens approached a checkpoint and told Afghan Public Protection Force members they'd observed insurgents unloading multiple gallon jugs and placing a homemade bomb under a bridge during the night. The protection force secured the site until the Afghan National Police arrived to disconnect the bomb and recover the cell phone to which it was connected.
It was the first use of the protection force in Wardak province's Nerkh district.
- Afghan national security forces, assisted by coalition forces, were conducting security operations in Khost province when they were approached by residents who informed them of homemade bombs emplaced in a school in the city of Porekah.
Forces discovered that militants had placed four bombs in the building, three of which had detonated and damaged the school earlier in the day. The forces located, removed and disarmed the last bomb before it could explode.
In the skies over Afghanistan yesterday, 79 close-air support missions were flown in support of the International Security Assistance Force and Afghan security forces, reconstruction activities and route patrols. Twenty-two Air Force surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft flew missions as part of operations in Afghanistan. In addition, two Navy aircraft performed tactical reconnaissance.
(Compiled from U.S. Forces Afghanistan and Combined Air and Space Operations Center news releases.)
Afghan Border Efforts Show 'Great Signs of Success'
By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service
June 23, 2009 - Afghan, Pakistani and coalition military operations designed to restrict militants' movements and eliminate safe havens along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border have accomplished visible gains, a senior U.S. military officer posted in Afghanistan said today. The continuation of Operation Lionheart border-interdiction operations that began last year has made "it difficult for the enemy to function," Army Col. John M. Spiszer, commander of 3rd Brigade Combat Team assigned to the 1st Infantry Division, told Pentagon reporters during a satellite-carried news conference.
Spiszer's forces comprise Task Force Duke posted in Regional Command East in northeastern Afghanistan. The task force conducts counterinsurgency, reconstruction and humanitarian operations in Nangarhar, Nuristan, Konar and Laghman provinces that are located near or along the border with Pakistan.
"I believe we are showing great signs of success with this within the central Konar region, especially," Spiszer said.
The colonel praised the labors of his more than 5,300 soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines in helping Afghan forces provide security and stability across Task Force Duke's area of responsibility. He also saluted the efforts of Afghan and Pakistani troops in interdicting militant infiltration routes along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border.
"Our soldiers also conducted numerous patrols and ambush operations to engage enemy fighters moving along infiltration routes" in Konar province near the border, Spiszer said.
The security situation in his area of operations is mixed, Spiszer said. Enemy activity has decreased in the dangerous Korengal Valley, he noted, while the overall number of "security incidents" has increased as a result of increased contact with the enemy.
The enemy has been pushed away from populated areas into less-populated mountainous regions, Spiszer said, following counterinsurgency strategy.
"You can interdict the border. You can position yourself in between the enemy and the populace," Spiszer pointed out. Meanwhile, he said, Afghan forces are performing the bulk of security duties in Nangarhar province.
Afghan forces also are performing most of the security mission to protect Highway 7, an important supply road that runs through Nangarhar and Laghman provinces, Spiszer said.
Also, he said, Task Force Duke has obligated $102 million in commander's emergency response program money to fund the improvement of more than 500 miles of roads and the construction of 97 schools.
"Roads are providing security, micro-commerce and access to services," Spiszer explained, while the building of schools "leads the people to a better future and helps us moderate extremist influences."
In April, Spiszer's soldiers helped earthquake-stricken Afghans living in Nangarhar province. That quake, he said, destroyed more than 200 homes and left thousands of Afghans homeless. The U.S. Air Force-manned provincial reconstruction team in the area responded to the emergency by delivering relief supplies such as water, beans, rice, flour and blankets to residents in need.
And, an agribusiness team from Kansas, Spiszer noted, is helping Afghan farmers in Laghman province with agriculture and livestock development.
Additionally, he said, a military police battalion from Fort Carson, Colo., is partnering with Afghan police serving across the four provinces and 50 districts within his purview.
And, all of these counterinsurgency, reconstruction and humanitarian efforts are helping the Afghan people to gain "faith in their government and hope for their future," Spiszer said.
American Forces Press Service
June 23, 2009 - Afghan, Pakistani and coalition military operations designed to restrict militants' movements and eliminate safe havens along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border have accomplished visible gains, a senior U.S. military officer posted in Afghanistan said today. The continuation of Operation Lionheart border-interdiction operations that began last year has made "it difficult for the enemy to function," Army Col. John M. Spiszer, commander of 3rd Brigade Combat Team assigned to the 1st Infantry Division, told Pentagon reporters during a satellite-carried news conference.
Spiszer's forces comprise Task Force Duke posted in Regional Command East in northeastern Afghanistan. The task force conducts counterinsurgency, reconstruction and humanitarian operations in Nangarhar, Nuristan, Konar and Laghman provinces that are located near or along the border with Pakistan.
"I believe we are showing great signs of success with this within the central Konar region, especially," Spiszer said.
The colonel praised the labors of his more than 5,300 soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines in helping Afghan forces provide security and stability across Task Force Duke's area of responsibility. He also saluted the efforts of Afghan and Pakistani troops in interdicting militant infiltration routes along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border.
"Our soldiers also conducted numerous patrols and ambush operations to engage enemy fighters moving along infiltration routes" in Konar province near the border, Spiszer said.
The security situation in his area of operations is mixed, Spiszer said. Enemy activity has decreased in the dangerous Korengal Valley, he noted, while the overall number of "security incidents" has increased as a result of increased contact with the enemy.
The enemy has been pushed away from populated areas into less-populated mountainous regions, Spiszer said, following counterinsurgency strategy.
"You can interdict the border. You can position yourself in between the enemy and the populace," Spiszer pointed out. Meanwhile, he said, Afghan forces are performing the bulk of security duties in Nangarhar province.
Afghan forces also are performing most of the security mission to protect Highway 7, an important supply road that runs through Nangarhar and Laghman provinces, Spiszer said.
Also, he said, Task Force Duke has obligated $102 million in commander's emergency response program money to fund the improvement of more than 500 miles of roads and the construction of 97 schools.
"Roads are providing security, micro-commerce and access to services," Spiszer explained, while the building of schools "leads the people to a better future and helps us moderate extremist influences."
In April, Spiszer's soldiers helped earthquake-stricken Afghans living in Nangarhar province. That quake, he said, destroyed more than 200 homes and left thousands of Afghans homeless. The U.S. Air Force-manned provincial reconstruction team in the area responded to the emergency by delivering relief supplies such as water, beans, rice, flour and blankets to residents in need.
And, an agribusiness team from Kansas, Spiszer noted, is helping Afghan farmers in Laghman province with agriculture and livestock development.
Additionally, he said, a military police battalion from Fort Carson, Colo., is partnering with Afghan police serving across the four provinces and 50 districts within his purview.
And, all of these counterinsurgency, reconstruction and humanitarian efforts are helping the Afghan people to gain "faith in their government and hope for their future," Spiszer said.
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