Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Success Builds on Success in Iraq
Success is building on success in Iraq, a senior military official said July 7 at a news conference in Baghdad.
Navy Rear Adm. Patrick Driscoll, a spokesman for Multinational Force Iraq, said the total number of security incidents in Iraq now sits at 2004 levels.
“As the [Iraqi security force] enforces the rule of law and improves security in places like Basra, Mosul, Amarah and Sadr City, the people are finding new confidence in those that lead and protect them,” Driscoll said. “Iraqis see security forces in their neighborhoods providing protection, and they are increasingly providing the army and police with valuable information that enhances safety.”
The police and army have been able to enter neighborhoods where they could not always operate in the past, Driscoll explained.
“The Iraqi security forces are taking more weapons off the street, which further limits the ability of criminals and terrorists to conduct violent attacks against Iraqi citizens, Iraqi security forces and coalition forces,” he said.
Operations in Basra have taken thousands of weapons off the streets. In late March, Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki ordered Iraqi security forces in to the southern city. Since then, Iraqi soldiers and police have captured more than 6,200 mortars, almost 8,000 artillery rounds, more than 20 surface-to-air missiles, some 750 rockets, nearly 200 rocket-propelled-grenade launchers, almost 340 roadside bombs and more than 50 bombs specifically designed to pierce armor-hulled vehicles, Driscoll said.
In Mosul, Iraqi and coalition forces seized 33 weapons caches during the last week of June alone, and in Baghdad, Iraqi and coalition forces found and safely cleared 67 weapons caches during the same period, he said.
The same is true in other areas of the country. Since Iraqi army operations intensified in Sadr City, forces have seized 217 arms caches. In Amarah on June 29, Iraqi soldiers seized a significant weapons cache that included enough shaped, charged components to build between 40 and 50 of the deadly armor-piercing bombs, and 400 blocks of C-4 explosives and small arms, Driscoll said. On July 3, Iraqi soldiers found another weapons cache with 152 copper disks that are the key components of the armor-piercing bombs.
“We have taken a lot of the enemy weapons off the battlefield, and it's making for significantly improved security,” Driscoll said. “We still face a tough fight. And it is increasingly an Iraqi effort, with the [Iraqi security forces] most often in the lead and coalition in support with key enablers.”
Much work remains, but the Iraqi government is proving it’s up to the job, Driscoll said, noting that coalition forces will continue to help the Iraqi security establishment accomplish its missions.
“We continue to pressure those who want to destroy rather than rebuild Iraq, and coalition forces are committed to supporting the Iraqi security forces in preserving our hard-fought gains,” he said.
Navy Rear Adm. Patrick Driscoll, a spokesman for Multinational Force Iraq, said the total number of security incidents in Iraq now sits at 2004 levels.
“As the [Iraqi security force] enforces the rule of law and improves security in places like Basra, Mosul, Amarah and Sadr City, the people are finding new confidence in those that lead and protect them,” Driscoll said. “Iraqis see security forces in their neighborhoods providing protection, and they are increasingly providing the army and police with valuable information that enhances safety.”
The police and army have been able to enter neighborhoods where they could not always operate in the past, Driscoll explained.
“The Iraqi security forces are taking more weapons off the street, which further limits the ability of criminals and terrorists to conduct violent attacks against Iraqi citizens, Iraqi security forces and coalition forces,” he said.
Operations in Basra have taken thousands of weapons off the streets. In late March, Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki ordered Iraqi security forces in to the southern city. Since then, Iraqi soldiers and police have captured more than 6,200 mortars, almost 8,000 artillery rounds, more than 20 surface-to-air missiles, some 750 rockets, nearly 200 rocket-propelled-grenade launchers, almost 340 roadside bombs and more than 50 bombs specifically designed to pierce armor-hulled vehicles, Driscoll said.
In Mosul, Iraqi and coalition forces seized 33 weapons caches during the last week of June alone, and in Baghdad, Iraqi and coalition forces found and safely cleared 67 weapons caches during the same period, he said.
The same is true in other areas of the country. Since Iraqi army operations intensified in Sadr City, forces have seized 217 arms caches. In Amarah on June 29, Iraqi soldiers seized a significant weapons cache that included enough shaped, charged components to build between 40 and 50 of the deadly armor-piercing bombs, and 400 blocks of C-4 explosives and small arms, Driscoll said. On July 3, Iraqi soldiers found another weapons cache with 152 copper disks that are the key components of the armor-piercing bombs.
“We have taken a lot of the enemy weapons off the battlefield, and it's making for significantly improved security,” Driscoll said. “We still face a tough fight. And it is increasingly an Iraqi effort, with the [Iraqi security forces] most often in the lead and coalition in support with key enablers.”
Much work remains, but the Iraqi government is proving it’s up to the job, Driscoll said, noting that coalition forces will continue to help the Iraqi security establishment accomplish its missions.
“We continue to pressure those who want to destroy rather than rebuild Iraq, and coalition forces are committed to supporting the Iraqi security forces in preserving our hard-fought gains,” he said.
MND-B Soldiers detain key criminal suspected of kidnapping, murder and more
Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers detained a key suspected criminal in the Karadah security district of eastern Baghdad July 8.
Soldiers from the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light) detained the suspected criminal while conducting operations specifically targeting him. He is a suspected high-ranking Special Groups officer in Zafaraniyah who is believed to be a member of a Special Groups cell’s death squad and to have direct involvement with kidnapping, murder and indirect fire attacks against Coalition forces and local government officials.
“Detaining this criminal is a tremendous victory for the people of Zafaraniyah and will allow citizens in eastern Baghdad to live a little safer,” said Maj. Joey Sullinger, a spokesperson for 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light). “Removing criminals from Baghdad’s streets is a necessary step along the path to a secure and stable future for all Iraqi citizens, security forces and government officials.”
Soldiers from the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light) detained the suspected criminal while conducting operations specifically targeting him. He is a suspected high-ranking Special Groups officer in Zafaraniyah who is believed to be a member of a Special Groups cell’s death squad and to have direct involvement with kidnapping, murder and indirect fire attacks against Coalition forces and local government officials.
“Detaining this criminal is a tremendous victory for the people of Zafaraniyah and will allow citizens in eastern Baghdad to live a little safer,” said Maj. Joey Sullinger, a spokesperson for 4th Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division (Light). “Removing criminals from Baghdad’s streets is a necessary step along the path to a secure and stable future for all Iraqi citizens, security forces and government officials.”
Coast Guard Augments Army at Bagram Air Base
Long known to protect the waters surrounding the United States, the question asked each time someone sees them is, “What is the U.S. Coast Guard doing here?”
Chief Petty Officer Daniel Kinville and Petty Officer 2nd Class Lauren Kowalewski are part of an eight-person unit from the Coast Guard’s 1179th Deployment Support Brigade, and are the only two Coast Guard personnel in Afghanistan.
“Usually, everyone’s first reaction when they see us is shock,” said Kowalewski, a Pittsburgh native. “They can’t seem to figure out why we’re so far from the U.S. coast and why we’re in a landlocked country.”
The answer lies in the Coast Guard’s reputation for keen attention to detail with paperwork, packing, customs and hazardous-materials shipping and storage -- their ability to continually ship containers across oceans without frustration issues. Based on this expertise, Army officials requested the Coast Guard’s help with redeploying and sealifting their gear.
The Coastie duo adds another flavor to the vast assortment of uniforms here, and for many soldiers, seeing a Bagram-based Coastie holds a silver lining, Kowalewski said.
“The soldiers get really excited when they see us,” she explained. “They know that once we get here and start customs services, [it] means they are getting closer to going home.”
Kinville and Kowalewski are serving nine-month deployments, and neither is performing duties typical to their Coast Guard specialty. As a prerequisite for their duties here, each had to go through extensive hazardous-materials handling and packing and shipping courses, followed by convoy travel and weapons training.
Still, the additional training and stepping out of normal roles expands a servicemember’s breadth of experience, said Kinville, a Yorktown, Va., native.
“We get the experience of working with the Navy, Air Force, Army and Marines. This is something totally different than what we do back in the states,” he said.
They were both startled when they heard a 155 mm Howitzer fire for the first time, and Kowalewski experienced her first helicopter ride.
“The chance to be here, [to] see the front lines with the soldiers [and to] experience their way of life in and around the different stages of deployment is really amazing,” Kinville said. “I’m proud to be able to support them and help where I can.”
Chief Petty Officer Daniel Kinville and Petty Officer 2nd Class Lauren Kowalewski are part of an eight-person unit from the Coast Guard’s 1179th Deployment Support Brigade, and are the only two Coast Guard personnel in Afghanistan.
“Usually, everyone’s first reaction when they see us is shock,” said Kowalewski, a Pittsburgh native. “They can’t seem to figure out why we’re so far from the U.S. coast and why we’re in a landlocked country.”
The answer lies in the Coast Guard’s reputation for keen attention to detail with paperwork, packing, customs and hazardous-materials shipping and storage -- their ability to continually ship containers across oceans without frustration issues. Based on this expertise, Army officials requested the Coast Guard’s help with redeploying and sealifting their gear.
The Coastie duo adds another flavor to the vast assortment of uniforms here, and for many soldiers, seeing a Bagram-based Coastie holds a silver lining, Kowalewski said.
“The soldiers get really excited when they see us,” she explained. “They know that once we get here and start customs services, [it] means they are getting closer to going home.”
Kinville and Kowalewski are serving nine-month deployments, and neither is performing duties typical to their Coast Guard specialty. As a prerequisite for their duties here, each had to go through extensive hazardous-materials handling and packing and shipping courses, followed by convoy travel and weapons training.
Still, the additional training and stepping out of normal roles expands a servicemember’s breadth of experience, said Kinville, a Yorktown, Va., native.
“We get the experience of working with the Navy, Air Force, Army and Marines. This is something totally different than what we do back in the states,” he said.
They were both startled when they heard a 155 mm Howitzer fire for the first time, and Kowalewski experienced her first helicopter ride.
“The chance to be here, [to] see the front lines with the soldiers [and to] experience their way of life in and around the different stages of deployment is really amazing,” Kinville said. “I’m proud to be able to support them and help where I can.”
Sather Airmen make each shot count
The scene is a typical firing range, not unlike what one would find built for a gun club or on an Army post or Air Force base. The line safety officers meticulously watch the novice shooters, holding their weapons properly, aiming at a silhouette target further down the range. "Is the line ready," shouts one Airman standing among the trainees in prone position. "The line is ready," echo others, kneeling next to the students. "FIRE!" Each shot disturbs the sand wall behind the targets, putting a cloud of dust in the air.
This is not a range filled with Airmen in basic training; this is a vital part of building the Iraqi military.
Training, advising and mentoring Iraqi airmen and soldiers normally falls on the shoulders of the Coalition Air Force Training Team members or members of the Multinational Security Transition Command-Iraq. CAFT-T members of the 370th Air Expeditionary Advisory Squadron at New Al Muthana Air Base, Iraq, adjacent to Sather AB, have called in reinforcements from the 447th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron to help train Iraqis to defend and secure the air base.
Jundees are Iraqi army infantry privates currently undergoing training. Master Sgt. Charles Rivera, a security forces adviser with the 370th AEAS, trains the Jundees in many facets of security, such as base defense and patrols. With that, comes small arms training. Taking about 10 trainees at a time, Sergeant Rivera depends on the members of the 447th ESFS to help at the shooting range to ensure the Iraqi trainees are proficient in their weapons training.
"I usually have enough volunteers from (security forces) to work with the Jundees one-on-one," said Sergeant Rivera, deployed from Lackland Air Force Base, Texas. "Sometimes their skill level is really low, but we spend the whole morning working with them on the fundamentals to get them where they're consistently hitting the target. By the end of the day, you see the joy at how much they're able to fire, how much they've improved just with the practice."
Volunteering at the range is so important, said Tech. Sgt. Christopher Doherty of the 447th ESFS and deployed from the 107th Airlift Wing in Niagara Falls, N.Y.
"It's a chance to see firsthand why we're here," he said. "We're here for the Iraqi people, and if this is how I can help, it's what I'll do. If we can get these guys to shoot on target by the end of their training, we've accomplished what we set out to do."
Getting them to the point that they're hitting the target isn't necessarily an easy task.
"It is a challenge, with the language barrier, to try to tell them how to hit the target where they should," said Master Sgt. Harold Cox, 447th ESFS, deployed from the 190th Security Forces Squadron of the Kansas Air National Guard. "We have to use an interpreter out there to tell them what to do, and they're shooting a different type weapon."
The AK-47s used by the Iraqi soldiers and airmen posed new difficulties for the Airmen responsible for training them due to the security forces Airmen's inexperience with the weapon, but members of the 447th ESFS and 370th AEAS worked together to overcome them. Many security forces members go through additional training prior to deploying to become familiar with different types of weapons, but as a refresher, Sergeant Cox has an AK-47 he shows the helping Airmen before they head to the range with the Iraqis and Sergeant Rivera. The familiarization with the weapon helps Airmen explain weapons discipline and safety while on the range.
"The weapons handling and training they (the Iraqis) have been provided (in the past) is nothing to the standard we have, so safety is not as big a consideration for them as it is for us. I've go to spend some time on safety," Sergeant Rivera said.
Echoing the attention to safety, Sergeant Cox said the weapon itself isn't conducive to a safe environment due to the lack of imbedded functions. The sergeant said the bolt of an AK-47 doesn't automatically lock to the rear when the magazine is empty.
"So we have to really double check that they're cleared before we walk down in front of the weapons," he said.
In addition to the AK-47, the Jundees receive training on M-9 pistols and familiarization training with the M-4 rifle.
The trainers don't plan to stop making their Iraqi brethren proficient anytime soon.
"As long as we've got personnel out there (at New Al Muthana AB), we'll keep going down and helping them," Sergeant Cox said. "It's great to watch how excited some of them (the Iraqis) get after they get done shooting."
This is not a range filled with Airmen in basic training; this is a vital part of building the Iraqi military.
Training, advising and mentoring Iraqi airmen and soldiers normally falls on the shoulders of the Coalition Air Force Training Team members or members of the Multinational Security Transition Command-Iraq. CAFT-T members of the 370th Air Expeditionary Advisory Squadron at New Al Muthana Air Base, Iraq, adjacent to Sather AB, have called in reinforcements from the 447th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron to help train Iraqis to defend and secure the air base.
Jundees are Iraqi army infantry privates currently undergoing training. Master Sgt. Charles Rivera, a security forces adviser with the 370th AEAS, trains the Jundees in many facets of security, such as base defense and patrols. With that, comes small arms training. Taking about 10 trainees at a time, Sergeant Rivera depends on the members of the 447th ESFS to help at the shooting range to ensure the Iraqi trainees are proficient in their weapons training.
"I usually have enough volunteers from (security forces) to work with the Jundees one-on-one," said Sergeant Rivera, deployed from Lackland Air Force Base, Texas. "Sometimes their skill level is really low, but we spend the whole morning working with them on the fundamentals to get them where they're consistently hitting the target. By the end of the day, you see the joy at how much they're able to fire, how much they've improved just with the practice."
Volunteering at the range is so important, said Tech. Sgt. Christopher Doherty of the 447th ESFS and deployed from the 107th Airlift Wing in Niagara Falls, N.Y.
"It's a chance to see firsthand why we're here," he said. "We're here for the Iraqi people, and if this is how I can help, it's what I'll do. If we can get these guys to shoot on target by the end of their training, we've accomplished what we set out to do."
Getting them to the point that they're hitting the target isn't necessarily an easy task.
"It is a challenge, with the language barrier, to try to tell them how to hit the target where they should," said Master Sgt. Harold Cox, 447th ESFS, deployed from the 190th Security Forces Squadron of the Kansas Air National Guard. "We have to use an interpreter out there to tell them what to do, and they're shooting a different type weapon."
The AK-47s used by the Iraqi soldiers and airmen posed new difficulties for the Airmen responsible for training them due to the security forces Airmen's inexperience with the weapon, but members of the 447th ESFS and 370th AEAS worked together to overcome them. Many security forces members go through additional training prior to deploying to become familiar with different types of weapons, but as a refresher, Sergeant Cox has an AK-47 he shows the helping Airmen before they head to the range with the Iraqis and Sergeant Rivera. The familiarization with the weapon helps Airmen explain weapons discipline and safety while on the range.
"The weapons handling and training they (the Iraqis) have been provided (in the past) is nothing to the standard we have, so safety is not as big a consideration for them as it is for us. I've go to spend some time on safety," Sergeant Rivera said.
Echoing the attention to safety, Sergeant Cox said the weapon itself isn't conducive to a safe environment due to the lack of imbedded functions. The sergeant said the bolt of an AK-47 doesn't automatically lock to the rear when the magazine is empty.
"So we have to really double check that they're cleared before we walk down in front of the weapons," he said.
In addition to the AK-47, the Jundees receive training on M-9 pistols and familiarization training with the M-4 rifle.
The trainers don't plan to stop making their Iraqi brethren proficient anytime soon.
"As long as we've got personnel out there (at New Al Muthana AB), we'll keep going down and helping them," Sergeant Cox said. "It's great to watch how excited some of them (the Iraqis) get after they get done shooting."
Soldier Missing In Action From Korean War Is Identified
The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of a U.S. serviceman, missing in action from the Korean War, have been identified and will be returned to his family for burial with full military honors.
He is Cpl. Steven Lucas, U.S. Army, of Johnson City, N.Y. He will be buried July 11 in Arlington National Cemetery near Washington, D.C.
Representatives from the Army met with Lucas’ next-of-kin to explain the recovery and identification process, and to coordinate interment with military honors on behalf of the Secretary of the Army.
Between 1991-94, North Korea turned over to the U.S. 208 boxes of remains believed to contain the remains of 200-400 U.S. servicemen. North Korean documents turned over with one of several boxes in 1993 indicated that the remains from that box were exhumed near Kaljon-ri. This location correlates with Lucas’ last known location.
Among other forensic identification tools and circumstantial evidence, scientists from the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command and the Armed Forces DNA Identification Laboratory also used mitochondrial DNA and dental comparisons in the identification of Lucas’ remains.
He is Cpl. Steven Lucas, U.S. Army, of Johnson City, N.Y. He will be buried July 11 in Arlington National Cemetery near Washington, D.C.
Representatives from the Army met with Lucas’ next-of-kin to explain the recovery and identification process, and to coordinate interment with military honors on behalf of the Secretary of the Army.
In late November 1950, Lucas was assigned to the Heavy Mortar Company, 31st Infantry Regiment making up part of the 31st Regimental Combat Team (RCT), then engaging enemy forces east of the Chosin Reservoir near Kaljon-ri, South Hamgyong Province, North Korea. On Nov. 29, remnants of the RCT began a fighting withdrawal to more defensible positions near Hagaru-ri, south of the reservoir. Lucas never made it to the lines at Hagaru-ri and was last seen on Nov. 30.
Between 1991-94, North Korea turned over to the U.S. 208 boxes of remains believed to contain the remains of 200-400 U.S. servicemen. North Korean documents turned over with one of several boxes in 1993 indicated that the remains from that box were exhumed near Kaljon-ri. This location correlates with Lucas’ last known location.
Among other forensic identification tools and circumstantial evidence, scientists from the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command and the Armed Forces DNA Identification Laboratory also used mitochondrial DNA and dental comparisons in the identification of Lucas’ remains.
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Afghan Officials Blame Foreign Intelligence Agency for India Embassy Attack
Afghan officials say they have evidence a foreign intelligence agency was involved in Monday's attack on the Indian Embassy in Kabul.
Afghan presidential spokesman, Humayun Hamidzada, did not name the agency, but Tuesday said it was "pretty obvious" who was behind the suicide car bomb attack that killed at least 41 people and wounded more than 150 others.
In the past, Afghan officials have accused Pakistani agents of being behind several attacks on their soil.
Hamidzada told reporters the sophistication of the attack, the kind of materials used, the specific targeting - everything - had the hallmark of a particular intelligence agency that has conducted similar terrorist attacks in Afghanistan in the past.
Speaking in Malaysia, Pakistani Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani Tuesday denied Pakistan's involvement - saying his country is not interested in destabilizing Afghanistan.
No one has claimed responsibility for the bombing that killed four Indian nationals.
A White House spokesman, Gordon Johndroe, called the attack a needless act of violence. Afghan President Hamid Karzai has also condemned the bombing.
The U.N. Security Council joined Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in strongly condemning the attack.
Afghan presidential spokesman, Humayun Hamidzada, did not name the agency, but Tuesday said it was "pretty obvious" who was behind the suicide car bomb attack that killed at least 41 people and wounded more than 150 others.
In the past, Afghan officials have accused Pakistani agents of being behind several attacks on their soil.
Hamidzada told reporters the sophistication of the attack, the kind of materials used, the specific targeting - everything - had the hallmark of a particular intelligence agency that has conducted similar terrorist attacks in Afghanistan in the past.
Speaking in Malaysia, Pakistani Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani Tuesday denied Pakistan's involvement - saying his country is not interested in destabilizing Afghanistan.
No one has claimed responsibility for the bombing that killed four Indian nationals.
A White House spokesman, Gordon Johndroe, called the attack a needless act of violence. Afghan President Hamid Karzai has also condemned the bombing.
The U.N. Security Council joined Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in strongly condemning the attack.
Six Charred Bodies Found in Tijuana as Drug Violence Escalates in Mexico
Mexican police say they have discovered six charred bodies on a street in the northern city of Tijuana.
A police spokesperson said the victims had been shot, then burned, in violence blamed on drug gangs.
Police say the discovery of the bodies Monday brings the death toll to 14 for Tijuana since Saturday.
Police say drug violence is on the rise in Tijuana after two months of relative quiet in the city across the U.S. border from San Diego, California. Almost 300 people have died in drug gang wars in Tijuana this year.
Also Monday, police say gunmen killed the head of the state police in Culiacan, Sinaloa.
Elsewhere, authorities say a severed human head with a note from the killers in a plastic bag was discovered in Culiacan Monday.
Similarly, police officials say a human head with a threatening note for Mexican law enforcement was discovered Saturday in Oaxaca.
Drug-related violence has soared recently in Mexico. Authorities attribute much of it to rival drug gangs, fighting for control of lucrative drug-smuggling routes.
Mexican President Felipe Calderon has taken steps to control the violence. Since taking office in 2006, he has dedicated tens of thousands of soldiers and police officers to the fight against drug trafficking.
A police spokesperson said the victims had been shot, then burned, in violence blamed on drug gangs.
Police say the discovery of the bodies Monday brings the death toll to 14 for Tijuana since Saturday.
Police say drug violence is on the rise in Tijuana after two months of relative quiet in the city across the U.S. border from San Diego, California. Almost 300 people have died in drug gang wars in Tijuana this year.
Also Monday, police say gunmen killed the head of the state police in Culiacan, Sinaloa.
Elsewhere, authorities say a severed human head with a note from the killers in a plastic bag was discovered in Culiacan Monday.
Similarly, police officials say a human head with a threatening note for Mexican law enforcement was discovered Saturday in Oaxaca.
Drug-related violence has soared recently in Mexico. Authorities attribute much of it to rival drug gangs, fighting for control of lucrative drug-smuggling routes.
Mexican President Felipe Calderon has taken steps to control the violence. Since taking office in 2006, he has dedicated tens of thousands of soldiers and police officers to the fight against drug trafficking.
Coalition forces kill, detain militants in Helmand province
Several militants were killed and seven were detained during a Coalition forces operation Sunday in Helmand province.
Compounds in Req District were searched by Coalition forces targeting a militant leader known to smuggle explosives and weapons including IED and heavy machine guns in the area.
During their search of the compounds, Coalition forces identified two armed militants. In both cases the militants threatened the force and were killed with small-arms fire.
Discovered at the site were multiple AK-47s, IED materials, ammunition vests, ammunition and a cache of narcotics in a building. The weapons, explosives and drugs were destroyed to prevent use.
Compounds in Req District were searched by Coalition forces targeting a militant leader known to smuggle explosives and weapons including IED and heavy machine guns in the area.
During their search of the compounds, Coalition forces identified two armed militants. In both cases the militants threatened the force and were killed with small-arms fire.
Discovered at the site were multiple AK-47s, IED materials, ammunition vests, ammunition and a cache of narcotics in a building. The weapons, explosives and drugs were destroyed to prevent use.
Mullen Gets First-Hand Look at Sadr City Improvements
The U.S. military’s top-ranking officer encountered one of Iraq’s most dangerous areas July 7 and saw first-hand the improvements Iraqi and U.S. forces have made during recent months.
Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, received a glimpse of the success that has seen attack levels in Iraq fall to their lowest in four years - a 90 percent decline in attacks during the past year alone. The progress in security has allowed Coalition forces to focus more on other issues, military officials in Baghdad said.
Less than 60 days ago, the streets of Jamilla Market in Baghdad’s Sadr City district weren’t even safe to walk. Now shops are open and business is coming back, said Mullen, who spoke with local merchants as well as U.S. troops during his tour of the two-mile stretch of market.
“We didn’t know where Sadr City was going to go,” the chairman said to Soldiers from the 4th Infantry Division’s 3rd Brigade Combat Team. “Thanks to you, the area is much better and safer; you’ve really made an impact.”
Senior leaders from the 4th Infantry Division and its 3rd Brigade Combat Team explained to Mullen that a continuous presence and increased confidence in the Iraqi Security Forces are the main reasons for the progress. Iraqi Security Forces are better equipped and better prepared than they’ve been in many months, said Army Col. John Hort, the brigade’s commander.
The 4th Infantry Division Soldiers patrol the streets five to seven times a day, and at least two patrols are conducted jointly with Iraqi forces, said Army Capt. Erik Oksenvaag, commander of the company responsible for security in the market and some surrounding areas.
“Sadr City has been in a tremendous fight to get to this stage,” Mullen said during a media roundtable in Baghdad. “The commanders are telling me the fight is being carried out in great confidence, and they have confidence in the Iraqi Security Forces – that they’ve seen progress.”
Mullen said he remains “modestly optimistic,” and acknowledged that Sadr City has a long way to go before it will be in reach of full government control. He said it’s going to take continued focus and one step at a time in one area at a time.
“I don’t see an end state right now in Sadr City, because it’s got a long way to go,” he said. “It was a place that not too many months ago was a big question for all of us, but continued progress will create a more complete answer down the road. You have to remember that success is a marathon, not a sprint.”
Although complete success may not happen overnight, Mullen said, his walk through the market and other areas was a sure indicator of progress in areas where only a few months ago people couldn’t safely walk.
Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, received a glimpse of the success that has seen attack levels in Iraq fall to their lowest in four years - a 90 percent decline in attacks during the past year alone. The progress in security has allowed Coalition forces to focus more on other issues, military officials in Baghdad said.
Less than 60 days ago, the streets of Jamilla Market in Baghdad’s Sadr City district weren’t even safe to walk. Now shops are open and business is coming back, said Mullen, who spoke with local merchants as well as U.S. troops during his tour of the two-mile stretch of market.
“We didn’t know where Sadr City was going to go,” the chairman said to Soldiers from the 4th Infantry Division’s 3rd Brigade Combat Team. “Thanks to you, the area is much better and safer; you’ve really made an impact.”
Senior leaders from the 4th Infantry Division and its 3rd Brigade Combat Team explained to Mullen that a continuous presence and increased confidence in the Iraqi Security Forces are the main reasons for the progress. Iraqi Security Forces are better equipped and better prepared than they’ve been in many months, said Army Col. John Hort, the brigade’s commander.
The 4th Infantry Division Soldiers patrol the streets five to seven times a day, and at least two patrols are conducted jointly with Iraqi forces, said Army Capt. Erik Oksenvaag, commander of the company responsible for security in the market and some surrounding areas.
“Sadr City has been in a tremendous fight to get to this stage,” Mullen said during a media roundtable in Baghdad. “The commanders are telling me the fight is being carried out in great confidence, and they have confidence in the Iraqi Security Forces – that they’ve seen progress.”
Mullen said he remains “modestly optimistic,” and acknowledged that Sadr City has a long way to go before it will be in reach of full government control. He said it’s going to take continued focus and one step at a time in one area at a time.
“I don’t see an end state right now in Sadr City, because it’s got a long way to go,” he said. “It was a place that not too many months ago was a big question for all of us, but continued progress will create a more complete answer down the road. You have to remember that success is a marathon, not a sprint.”
Although complete success may not happen overnight, Mullen said, his walk through the market and other areas was a sure indicator of progress in areas where only a few months ago people couldn’t safely walk.
Civil Affairs teams bring security, development in Konar province
Capt. Roman Skaskiw, 451st Civil Affairs Battalion, is responsible for the five southern Konar districts of the province, which are Narang, Nurgul, Sarkani, Khas Konar and Chowkay districts. Although these districts differ in the quality of governance and development, they all suffer from a lack of security, power and infrastructure.
"The overall security situation is becoming more stable. The reason for the fighting is local animosities influenced by people who feel they are not getting their share of the redevelopment,” said Skaskiw. “However, development dampens the insurgency as evidenced in improving the police, the roads connecting the people to the government and the burgeoning health care system." The Civil Affairs team works with the Afghan government and international humanitarian organizations to rebuild infrastructure and restore stability in areas stricken by war or natural disasters. The joint civil-military efforts are key components in winning the hearts and minds of Afghans, buttressing the authority of the government in Kabul and providing a central effort in the U.S. led counterinsurgency campaign. The teams are partnered with representatives from U.S. government agencies such as the Department of State, Department of Agriculture and U.S. Agency for International Development.
PRTs were established to facilitate infrastructure development necessary for the Afghanistan people to succeed in a post-conflict environment. Most PRTs are run by Navy and Air Force officers and are the face of the U.S. redevelopment aid for millions of Afghans.
“PRT’s fill specific needs and challenges such as security and stability which is apparent in Afghanistan’s rebuilding process,” said Cmdr. Daniel Dwyer, Konar PRT’s commander. “Development without security is unsustainable and security without development is meaningless.”
"The overall security situation is becoming more stable. The reason for the fighting is local animosities influenced by people who feel they are not getting their share of the redevelopment,” said Skaskiw. “However, development dampens the insurgency as evidenced in improving the police, the roads connecting the people to the government and the burgeoning health care system." The Civil Affairs team works with the Afghan government and international humanitarian organizations to rebuild infrastructure and restore stability in areas stricken by war or natural disasters. The joint civil-military efforts are key components in winning the hearts and minds of Afghans, buttressing the authority of the government in Kabul and providing a central effort in the U.S. led counterinsurgency campaign. The teams are partnered with representatives from U.S. government agencies such as the Department of State, Department of Agriculture and U.S. Agency for International Development.
PRTs were established to facilitate infrastructure development necessary for the Afghanistan people to succeed in a post-conflict environment. Most PRTs are run by Navy and Air Force officers and are the face of the U.S. redevelopment aid for millions of Afghans.
“PRT’s fill specific needs and challenges such as security and stability which is apparent in Afghanistan’s rebuilding process,” said Cmdr. Daniel Dwyer, Konar PRT’s commander. “Development without security is unsustainable and security without development is meaningless.”
July 7 airpower summary: C-130s help sustain SWA operations
Coalition airpower integrated with coalition ground forces in Iraq and International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan during operations July 7, according to Combined Air and Space Operations Center officials here.
In Afghanistan, an Air Force B-1B Lancer dropped guided bomb unit-31s onto enemy fighting positions in the vicinity of Bermel. Furthermore, Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt IIs fired rockets, cannon rounds and dropped general purpose 500-pound bombs onto additional enemy fighting positions in the area. An on-scene joint terminal attack controller confirmed the missions successful.
In the vicinity of Nagalam, an Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle dropped GBU-38s onto an anti-Afghan forces fighting position. A B-1B dropped a GBU-31 and GBU-38s onto additional anti-Afghan forces fighting positions. The missions were declared a success by a JTAC.
B-1Bs dropped a GBU-38 and GBU-31s onto enemy combatants near Bari Kowt. The JTAC reported the missions successful.
F-15Es dropped GBU-31s onto enemy combatants taking shelter in a building in the vicinity of Molla Ashraf. The missions were confirmed a success by a JTAC.
French 2000 Mirages conducted shows of force to deter enemy activities against coalition forces in the vicinities of Gereshk and Sagin. A JTAC reported the mission successful.
An F-15E conducted a show of force to deter activities by anti-Afghan forces in the vicinity of Nagalam. The mission was declared a success by a JTAC.
Shows of force were performed by A-10s in Gardez to deter activities by anti-Afghan forces. A JTAC reported the mission as a success.
A Royal Air Force GR-7 Harrier performed a show of force to deter enemy activities against coalition forces in the vicinity of Tarin Kowt. The mission was reported a success by a JTAC.
In total, 52 close-air-support missions were flown as part of the ISAF and Afghan security forces, reconstruction activities and route patrols.
Fourteen Air Force and RAF intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft flew missions as part of operations in Afghanistan. Additionally, two RAF aircraft performed tactical reconnaissance.
In Iraq, coalition aircraft flew 47 close-air-support missions for Operation Iraqi Freedom. These missions integrated and synchronized with coalition ground forces, protected key infrastructure, provided overwatch for reconstruction activities and helped to deter and disrupt terrorist activities.
Twenty-five Air Force, Navy and Royal Australian Air Force ISR aircraft flew missions as part of operations in Iraq. Additionally, four Air Force and RAF aircraft performed tactical reconnaissance.
Air Force C-130 Hercules aircraft and C-17 Globemaster IIIs provided intra-theater heavy airlift, helping to sustain operations throughout Afghanistan, Iraq and the Horn of Africa.
Approximately 129 airlift sorties were flown, 561 tons of cargo delivered and 2,441 passengers were transported. This included approximately 26,000 pounds of troop re-supply air-dropped in Afghanistan.
Coalition C-130 crews from Australia, Canada, Iraq, Japan and Korea flew as part of operations in Afghanistan or Iraq.
On July 6, Air Force, French, RAF and Singaporean tanker crews flew 58 sorties and off-loaded approximately 3.5 million pounds of fuel to 255 receiving aircraft.
In Afghanistan, an Air Force B-1B Lancer dropped guided bomb unit-31s onto enemy fighting positions in the vicinity of Bermel. Furthermore, Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt IIs fired rockets, cannon rounds and dropped general purpose 500-pound bombs onto additional enemy fighting positions in the area. An on-scene joint terminal attack controller confirmed the missions successful.
In the vicinity of Nagalam, an Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle dropped GBU-38s onto an anti-Afghan forces fighting position. A B-1B dropped a GBU-31 and GBU-38s onto additional anti-Afghan forces fighting positions. The missions were declared a success by a JTAC.
B-1Bs dropped a GBU-38 and GBU-31s onto enemy combatants near Bari Kowt. The JTAC reported the missions successful.
F-15Es dropped GBU-31s onto enemy combatants taking shelter in a building in the vicinity of Molla Ashraf. The missions were confirmed a success by a JTAC.
French 2000 Mirages conducted shows of force to deter enemy activities against coalition forces in the vicinities of Gereshk and Sagin. A JTAC reported the mission successful.
An F-15E conducted a show of force to deter activities by anti-Afghan forces in the vicinity of Nagalam. The mission was declared a success by a JTAC.
Shows of force were performed by A-10s in Gardez to deter activities by anti-Afghan forces. A JTAC reported the mission as a success.
A Royal Air Force GR-7 Harrier performed a show of force to deter enemy activities against coalition forces in the vicinity of Tarin Kowt. The mission was reported a success by a JTAC.
In total, 52 close-air-support missions were flown as part of the ISAF and Afghan security forces, reconstruction activities and route patrols.
Fourteen Air Force and RAF intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft flew missions as part of operations in Afghanistan. Additionally, two RAF aircraft performed tactical reconnaissance.
In Iraq, coalition aircraft flew 47 close-air-support missions for Operation Iraqi Freedom. These missions integrated and synchronized with coalition ground forces, protected key infrastructure, provided overwatch for reconstruction activities and helped to deter and disrupt terrorist activities.
Twenty-five Air Force, Navy and Royal Australian Air Force ISR aircraft flew missions as part of operations in Iraq. Additionally, four Air Force and RAF aircraft performed tactical reconnaissance.
Air Force C-130 Hercules aircraft and C-17 Globemaster IIIs provided intra-theater heavy airlift, helping to sustain operations throughout Afghanistan, Iraq and the Horn of Africa.
Approximately 129 airlift sorties were flown, 561 tons of cargo delivered and 2,441 passengers were transported. This included approximately 26,000 pounds of troop re-supply air-dropped in Afghanistan.
Coalition C-130 crews from Australia, Canada, Iraq, Japan and Korea flew as part of operations in Afghanistan or Iraq.
On July 6, Air Force, French, RAF and Singaporean tanker crews flew 58 sorties and off-loaded approximately 3.5 million pounds of fuel to 255 receiving aircraft.
Monday, July 7, 2008
Coalition helicopters destroy militant mortar teams
Bagram Air Field, Afghanistan (July 5, 2008) -- Coalition forces killed more than a dozen militants following an attack on a combat outpost in Nuristan province yesterday afternoon.
Ground forces at the combat outpost observed militants firing at friendly positions. Ground forces defended themselves with small arms-fire. The insurgents then entered two vehicles and began travelling away from the firing position.
Ground forces called Coalition attack helicopters for support.
The helicopter crews coordinated with ground forces to positively identify the militants’ vehicles.
The attack helicopters then destroyed the two vehicles, killing more than a dozen militants.
The attack helicopters engaged no other targets.
There are no official reports of non-combatant injuries or casualties.
We are aware through media reports that there are allegations of civilian casualties. We are engaging with Afghan officials on this matter.
Ground forces at the combat outpost observed militants firing at friendly positions. Ground forces defended themselves with small arms-fire. The insurgents then entered two vehicles and began travelling away from the firing position.
Ground forces called Coalition attack helicopters for support.
The helicopter crews coordinated with ground forces to positively identify the militants’ vehicles.
The attack helicopters then destroyed the two vehicles, killing more than a dozen militants.
The attack helicopters engaged no other targets.
There are no official reports of non-combatant injuries or casualties.
We are aware through media reports that there are allegations of civilian casualties. We are engaging with Afghan officials on this matter.
Iraqi Army Locates Weapons Cache
Troops assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 38th Brigade, 10th Iraqi Army located a weapons cache in the city of Amarah and detained two individuals occupying the building where the cache was found, July 4.
The IA located three explosively-formed penetrators, 20 155 mm artillery rounds, three anti-tank mines, 20 rocket-propelled grenades, one anti-personnel RPG, three RPG launchers, 21 grenades, three spools of detonation wire, six voltage meters, three camera flashes and a pair of new assault rifles.
The Iraqi unit is partnered with the 2nd Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division.
An explosive ordnance disposal team was notified, and a controlled detonation will be conducted at a later date.
The IA located three explosively-formed penetrators, 20 155 mm artillery rounds, three anti-tank mines, 20 rocket-propelled grenades, one anti-personnel RPG, three RPG launchers, 21 grenades, three spools of detonation wire, six voltage meters, three camera flashes and a pair of new assault rifles.
The Iraqi unit is partnered with the 2nd Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division.
An explosive ordnance disposal team was notified, and a controlled detonation will be conducted at a later date.
Several militants killed with precision airstrikes Nangarhar province
BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan (July 6, 2008) – Several militants were killed today when Coalition forces conducted precision airstrikes in Nangarhar province.
Intelligence revealed a large group of militants operating in Deh Bala District. Coalition forces identified the militants in a mountainous region and used precision airstrikes to kill them.
Intelligence revealed a large group of militants operating in Deh Bala District. Coalition forces identified the militants in a mountainous region and used precision airstrikes to kill them.
July 6 airpower summary: A-10s deter anti-Afghan forces
Coalition airpower integrated with coalition ground forces in Iraq and the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan during operations July 6, according to Combined Air and Space Operations Center officials here.
In Afghanistan, Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt IIs fired canon rounds and dropped general-purpose 500-pound bombs onto anti-Afghan forces in the vicinity of Nagalam. Furthermore, an Air Force B-1B Lancer dropped guided bomb unit-31s and 38s onto additional enemy fighting positions in the area. The joint terminal attack controller confirmed the missions successful.
In the vicinity of Shkin, an Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle dropped a GBU-12 and GBU-38s onto anti-Afghan forces. Additionally, an F-15E performed shows of force to deter activities by anti-Afghan forces in the area. The mission was reported as a success by the JTAC.
An F-15E fired cannon rounds onto anti-Afghan forces fighting positions in the vicinity of Molla Ashraf. The JTAC declared the mission successful.
In the vicinity of Sangin, an F-15E conducted a show of force to deter activities by anti-Afghan forces. The mission was confirmed a success by the JTAC.
A Royal Air Force GR-7 Harrier performed a show of force over enemy positions in the vicinity of Tarin Kowt in order to deter activities by enemy combatants. The JTAC reported the mission successful.
In total, 50 close-air-support missions were flown as part of the ISAF and Afghan National Security Forces, reconstruction activities and route patrols.
Thirteen Air Force and RAF surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft flew missions as part of operations in Afghanistan. Additionally, two RAF aircraft performed tactical reconnaissance.
In Iraq, coalition aircraft flew 56 close-air-support missions for Operation Iraqi Freedom. These missions integrated and synchronized with coalition ground forces, protected key infrastructure, provided over watch for reconstruction activities and helped to deter and disrupt terrorist activities.
Twenty-six Air Force and RAF surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft flew missions as part of operations in Iraq. Additionally, four Air Force and RAF aircraft performed tactical reconnaissance.
Air Force C-130s and C-17s provided intra-theater heavy airlift, helping to sustain operations throughout Afghanistan, Iraq and the Horn of Africa.
Approximately 137 airlift sorties were flown, 488 tons of cargo were delivered and 3,304 passengers were transported. This included approximately 20,160 pounds of troop re-supply air-dropped in Afghanistan.
Coalition C-130 crews from Australia, Iraq and Korea flew as part of operations in Afghanistan or Iraq.
On July 5, Air Force, French, RAF and Singaporean Tanker crews flew 53 sorties and off-loaded approximately 2.7 million pounds of fuel to 226 receiving aircraft.
In Afghanistan, Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt IIs fired canon rounds and dropped general-purpose 500-pound bombs onto anti-Afghan forces in the vicinity of Nagalam. Furthermore, an Air Force B-1B Lancer dropped guided bomb unit-31s and 38s onto additional enemy fighting positions in the area. The joint terminal attack controller confirmed the missions successful.
In the vicinity of Shkin, an Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle dropped a GBU-12 and GBU-38s onto anti-Afghan forces. Additionally, an F-15E performed shows of force to deter activities by anti-Afghan forces in the area. The mission was reported as a success by the JTAC.
An F-15E fired cannon rounds onto anti-Afghan forces fighting positions in the vicinity of Molla Ashraf. The JTAC declared the mission successful.
In the vicinity of Sangin, an F-15E conducted a show of force to deter activities by anti-Afghan forces. The mission was confirmed a success by the JTAC.
A Royal Air Force GR-7 Harrier performed a show of force over enemy positions in the vicinity of Tarin Kowt in order to deter activities by enemy combatants. The JTAC reported the mission successful.
In total, 50 close-air-support missions were flown as part of the ISAF and Afghan National Security Forces, reconstruction activities and route patrols.
Thirteen Air Force and RAF surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft flew missions as part of operations in Afghanistan. Additionally, two RAF aircraft performed tactical reconnaissance.
In Iraq, coalition aircraft flew 56 close-air-support missions for Operation Iraqi Freedom. These missions integrated and synchronized with coalition ground forces, protected key infrastructure, provided over watch for reconstruction activities and helped to deter and disrupt terrorist activities.
Twenty-six Air Force and RAF surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft flew missions as part of operations in Iraq. Additionally, four Air Force and RAF aircraft performed tactical reconnaissance.
Air Force C-130s and C-17s provided intra-theater heavy airlift, helping to sustain operations throughout Afghanistan, Iraq and the Horn of Africa.
Approximately 137 airlift sorties were flown, 488 tons of cargo were delivered and 3,304 passengers were transported. This included approximately 20,160 pounds of troop re-supply air-dropped in Afghanistan.
Coalition C-130 crews from Australia, Iraq and Korea flew as part of operations in Afghanistan or Iraq.
On July 5, Air Force, French, RAF and Singaporean Tanker crews flew 53 sorties and off-loaded approximately 2.7 million pounds of fuel to 226 receiving aircraft.
Thursday, July 3, 2008
MND-B Soldiers detain seven suspected criminals (Baghdad)
Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers detained seven suspected criminals July 2 in the Rashid district of southern Baghdad.
At approximately 11:30 p.m. Soldiers from the 4th Infantry Division, working with Iraqi Security Forces, conducted a search operation and detained seven suspected criminals in the Risalah neighborhood. The patrol returned to a Coalition forces base with the suspects for questioning.
“This is my third tour in Iraq and one of the biggest things I noticed on this tour was the improvement in the Iraqi Security Forces,” said Col. Ted Martin, commander and spokesperson with the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Inf. Div.
“The ISF partnered with us are professionally trained and well-led forces, who are doing a great job in the Rashid district.”
At approximately 11:30 p.m. Soldiers from the 4th Infantry Division, working with Iraqi Security Forces, conducted a search operation and detained seven suspected criminals in the Risalah neighborhood. The patrol returned to a Coalition forces base with the suspects for questioning.
“This is my third tour in Iraq and one of the biggest things I noticed on this tour was the improvement in the Iraqi Security Forces,” said Col. Ted Martin, commander and spokesperson with the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Inf. Div.
“The ISF partnered with us are professionally trained and well-led forces, who are doing a great job in the Rashid district.”
Militants detained in Helmand province
Six militants, including a targeted Taliban leader, were detained Tuesday during a Coalition forces operation to disrupt Taliban operations in Helmand province.
Coalition forces searched several compounds in Nahri Sarraj District targeting the mid-level Taliban leader.
Coalition forces discovered numerous rocket-propelled grenades, IED materials, AK-47 assault rifles, ammunition vests and ammunition hidden in multiple buildings. They also discovered large caches of narcotics, including one estimated at more than 400 pounds. All weapons, munitions and narcotics were destroyed to prevent future use.
Coalition forces searched several compounds in Nahri Sarraj District targeting the mid-level Taliban leader.
Coalition forces discovered numerous rocket-propelled grenades, IED materials, AK-47 assault rifles, ammunition vests and ammunition hidden in multiple buildings. They also discovered large caches of narcotics, including one estimated at more than 400 pounds. All weapons, munitions and narcotics were destroyed to prevent future use.
MND-B Soldiers, IA Make Effort to Protect Iraqi Children
Children, at times, are easy targets for criminals and terrorists. Not only are they the victims of attacks, they are now the victims of recruitment into dangerous organizations.
Since the liberation of Iraq in 2003, there have been several incidents of al-Qaida using children to conduct their terrorist activities.
Soldiers from 4th Platoon, Company C, 1st Battalion 14th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team “Warrior,” 25th Infantry Division, Multi-National Division – Baghdad, joined with the Iraqi army to reach out to children and their families by conducting a patrol throughout the Mushada area, northwest of Baghdad, passing out flyers and speaking with the locals of the city.
Their intent is to educate them about criminal and terrorist activities.
“At first the people that we made contact with were apprehensive to talk to us,” said Sgt. 1st Class Steve Purvis, native of Lexington, N.C., and platoon sergeant with Company C, 1st Bn., 14th Inf. Regt. “But when they realized we were there to inform them and about recent ploys to exploit their children, and that we care about them and their children, they were more receptive and openly began to talk with us.”
Not only were they successful in informing the families, but Sgt. John Mulcahy, native of Atlanta, and team sergeant attached to 1st Bn., 14th Inf. Regt., said they also had success in having their message distributed by the local religious leader, or imam.
Providing reassurance to their people, the Iraqi Army played a necessary role stopping recruitment of children.
“By people seeing the Iraqi Army serving and protecting them, it shows that their country is growing stronger,” said Purvis.
Passing out fliers and speaking to children may seem like a small step, but the message is a significant element toward the primary mission; providing a safe and secure environment for the people of Iraq.
“Everybody knows that Soldiers love children,” Purvis stated. “By using children al-Qaida is trying to exploit their innocence against us. The children of Iraq are the future of the country.”
Since the liberation of Iraq in 2003, there have been several incidents of al-Qaida using children to conduct their terrorist activities.
Soldiers from 4th Platoon, Company C, 1st Battalion 14th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team “Warrior,” 25th Infantry Division, Multi-National Division – Baghdad, joined with the Iraqi army to reach out to children and their families by conducting a patrol throughout the Mushada area, northwest of Baghdad, passing out flyers and speaking with the locals of the city.
Their intent is to educate them about criminal and terrorist activities.
“At first the people that we made contact with were apprehensive to talk to us,” said Sgt. 1st Class Steve Purvis, native of Lexington, N.C., and platoon sergeant with Company C, 1st Bn., 14th Inf. Regt. “But when they realized we were there to inform them and about recent ploys to exploit their children, and that we care about them and their children, they were more receptive and openly began to talk with us.”
Not only were they successful in informing the families, but Sgt. John Mulcahy, native of Atlanta, and team sergeant attached to 1st Bn., 14th Inf. Regt., said they also had success in having their message distributed by the local religious leader, or imam.
Providing reassurance to their people, the Iraqi Army played a necessary role stopping recruitment of children.
“By people seeing the Iraqi Army serving and protecting them, it shows that their country is growing stronger,” said Purvis.
Passing out fliers and speaking to children may seem like a small step, but the message is a significant element toward the primary mission; providing a safe and secure environment for the people of Iraq.
“Everybody knows that Soldiers love children,” Purvis stated. “By using children al-Qaida is trying to exploit their innocence against us. The children of Iraq are the future of the country.”
July 2 airpower summary: F-15Es perform shows of force
Coalition airpower integrated with coalition ground forces in Iraq and International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan during operations July 2, according to Combined Air and Space Operations Center officials here.
In Afghanistan, Air Force F-15E Strike Eagles conducted shows of force in order to deter activities by anti-Afghan forces in the vicinity of Soltani. An on-scene joint terminal attack controller declared the missions successful.
An Air Force MQ-9 Reaper dropped guided bomb unit-12s and fired Hellfire missiles onto a cave in Gereshk. The mission was reported as a success by a JTAC.
A Royal Air Force GR-7 Harrier dropped a 540-pound free-fall bomb onto an enemy building in the vicinity of Kajaki Dam. The mission was declared a success by a JTAC.
In the vicinity of Bari Kowt, Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt IIs fired cannon rounds, rockets and dropped general purpose 500-pound bombs onto anti-Afghan forces and anti-Afghan force positions. A JTAC reported the missions as successful.
An Air Force B-1B Lancer dropped a GBU-31 and GBU-38s onto an enemy combatant position in the vicinity of Qalenaw. The mission was confirmed as a success by a JTAC.
In the vicinity of Nagalam, F-15Es dropped a GBU-31 and GBU-38s onto anti-Afghan forces fighting positions. Furthermore, an F-15E conducted shows of force in the area in order to deter enemy activities by anti-Afghan forces. A JTAC declared the mission a success.
F-15Es performed shows of force in order to deter enemy activities by anti-Afghan forces in Kabul and Bari Kowt. The missions were reported as successful by a JTAC.
In the vicinity of Nagalam, F-15Es dropped GBU-38s onto anti-Afghan forces fighting positions. A JTAC confirmed the missions as a success.
A French 2000 Mirage conducted shows of force over enemy locations in Bari Kowt. The mission was declared a success by a JTAC.
In total, 54 close-air-support missions were flown as part of the ISAF and Afghan security forces, reconstruction activities and route patrols.
Thirteen Air Force and Royal Air Force intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft flew missions as part of operations in Afghanistan.
In Iraq, an Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon performed a show of force in order to deter enemy activities in the vicinity of Khan Bani Sad. A JTAC reported the mission as a success.
In total, coalition aircraft flew 41 close-air-support missions for Operation Iraqi Freedom. These missions integrated and synchronized with coalition ground forces, protected key infrastructure, provided overwatch for reconstruction activities and helped to deter and disrupt terrorist activities.
Twenty-three Air Force and Navy ISR aircraft flew missions as part of operations in Iraq. Additionally, two RAF aircraft performed tactical reconnaissance.
Air Force C-130 Hercules aircraft and C-17 Globemaster IIIs provided intra-theater heavy airlift, helping to sustain operations throughout Afghanistan, Iraq and the Horn of Africa.
Approximately 122 airlift sorties were flown, 427 tons of cargo delivered and 3,624 passengers were transported. This included approximately 42,800 pounds of troop re-supply air-dropped in Afghanistan.
Coalition C-130 crews from Australia, Canada and Iraq flew as part of operations in Afghanistan or Iraq.
On July 1, Air Force, French, RAF and Singapore tanker crews flew 43 sorties and off-loaded approximately 2.1 million pounds of fuel to 141 receiving aircraft.
In Afghanistan, Air Force F-15E Strike Eagles conducted shows of force in order to deter activities by anti-Afghan forces in the vicinity of Soltani. An on-scene joint terminal attack controller declared the missions successful.
An Air Force MQ-9 Reaper dropped guided bomb unit-12s and fired Hellfire missiles onto a cave in Gereshk. The mission was reported as a success by a JTAC.
A Royal Air Force GR-7 Harrier dropped a 540-pound free-fall bomb onto an enemy building in the vicinity of Kajaki Dam. The mission was declared a success by a JTAC.
In the vicinity of Bari Kowt, Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt IIs fired cannon rounds, rockets and dropped general purpose 500-pound bombs onto anti-Afghan forces and anti-Afghan force positions. A JTAC reported the missions as successful.
An Air Force B-1B Lancer dropped a GBU-31 and GBU-38s onto an enemy combatant position in the vicinity of Qalenaw. The mission was confirmed as a success by a JTAC.
In the vicinity of Nagalam, F-15Es dropped a GBU-31 and GBU-38s onto anti-Afghan forces fighting positions. Furthermore, an F-15E conducted shows of force in the area in order to deter enemy activities by anti-Afghan forces. A JTAC declared the mission a success.
F-15Es performed shows of force in order to deter enemy activities by anti-Afghan forces in Kabul and Bari Kowt. The missions were reported as successful by a JTAC.
In the vicinity of Nagalam, F-15Es dropped GBU-38s onto anti-Afghan forces fighting positions. A JTAC confirmed the missions as a success.
A French 2000 Mirage conducted shows of force over enemy locations in Bari Kowt. The mission was declared a success by a JTAC.
In total, 54 close-air-support missions were flown as part of the ISAF and Afghan security forces, reconstruction activities and route patrols.
Thirteen Air Force and Royal Air Force intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft flew missions as part of operations in Afghanistan.
In Iraq, an Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon performed a show of force in order to deter enemy activities in the vicinity of Khan Bani Sad. A JTAC reported the mission as a success.
In total, coalition aircraft flew 41 close-air-support missions for Operation Iraqi Freedom. These missions integrated and synchronized with coalition ground forces, protected key infrastructure, provided overwatch for reconstruction activities and helped to deter and disrupt terrorist activities.
Twenty-three Air Force and Navy ISR aircraft flew missions as part of operations in Iraq. Additionally, two RAF aircraft performed tactical reconnaissance.
Air Force C-130 Hercules aircraft and C-17 Globemaster IIIs provided intra-theater heavy airlift, helping to sustain operations throughout Afghanistan, Iraq and the Horn of Africa.
Approximately 122 airlift sorties were flown, 427 tons of cargo delivered and 3,624 passengers were transported. This included approximately 42,800 pounds of troop re-supply air-dropped in Afghanistan.
Coalition C-130 crews from Australia, Canada and Iraq flew as part of operations in Afghanistan or Iraq.
On July 1, Air Force, French, RAF and Singapore tanker crews flew 43 sorties and off-loaded approximately 2.1 million pounds of fuel to 141 receiving aircraft.
Increased Violence in Afghanistan Causes Concern at Pentagon
WASHINGTON, July 2, 2008 – Defense Department officials are very concerned about the situation in Afghanistan, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said here today.
“Violence is up significantly from a year ago,” Navy Adm. Mike Mullen said during a Pentagon news conference. For the second month in a row, more coalition servicemembers died in Afghanistan than died in Iraq.
Given the country’s harsh winters and unforgiving terrain, summer historically is the fighting season in Afghanistan, but the Taliban have become more organized and efficient, Mullen said. But part of the increase in violence is because there are more coalition and Afghan troops in the country. They are going into more areas, and the Taliban are responding, the admiral said.
Another factor, he said, is a combination of Afghanistan’s porous border with Pakistan and the Taliban using areas in Pakistan’s federally administered tribal area as safe havens. “There is much more freedom this year to move across the border,” the chairman said.
The NATO-led coalition in Afghanistan is at 52,700 personnel, and the effort in the country remains in what’s known as an economy-of-force mission, Mullen said. “What we’re going through now is an ability to win in the combat standpoint, but we don’t have the troops to hold the areas,” he explained.
Mullen said a recent statement by Pakistani Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani on the terrorist problem in the country is encouraging. He praised Gilani’s appreciation of the terrorist threat and the decision to place Gen. Ashfaq Parvez Kayani in command of Pakistan’s frontier corps in addition to the army.
Pakistani security forces launched attacks against the Taliban in and around Peshawar. “It’s important that this be sustained and pressure placed on insurgents,” Mullen said. “I’m encouraged by what I’ve seen, but I think we must be patient.”
U.S. assistance must be as robust as it can possibly be, and the Pakistani government and military must move as rapidly as they can against this problem, the chairman said.
U.S. and NATO leaders are focused on the challenges in Afghanistan, particularly in the east and the south. “We are exploring a number of options and opportunities to get a better understanding of the scope of the threat and the best means with which to counter it,” Mullen said. “I’ve made no secret of my desire to flow more U.S. forces to Afghanistan just as soon as I can. Nor have I been shy about saying those forces will not be available unless or until the situation in Iraq allows us to do so.”
The United States does not have the forces available to flow into Afghanistan without a reduced requirement in Iraq. “We’re on an increasingly positive path in Iraq, and … I’m hopeful that towards the end of the year, opportunities like that will be created,” Mullen said.
No easy solution or quick fix is available in Afghanistan, the admiral said, and more troops will be necessary. Some NATO allies have committed to sending more troops, but not until the end of the summer and into the fall.
“We need and are pursuing a broader interagency international approach -- one that includes infrastructure improvement, foreign investment and economic incentives,” Mullen said. “I’m hopeful these efforts will pay off in the future.”
But everyone needs patience, the chairman said. “As we have seen in Iraq, counterinsurgency warfare takes time and a level of commitment and flexibility,” he said. “We remain committed to a stable future for Afghanistan and her people, and I’m just as convinced as ever that we will achieve it.”
“Violence is up significantly from a year ago,” Navy Adm. Mike Mullen said during a Pentagon news conference. For the second month in a row, more coalition servicemembers died in Afghanistan than died in Iraq.
Given the country’s harsh winters and unforgiving terrain, summer historically is the fighting season in Afghanistan, but the Taliban have become more organized and efficient, Mullen said. But part of the increase in violence is because there are more coalition and Afghan troops in the country. They are going into more areas, and the Taliban are responding, the admiral said.
Another factor, he said, is a combination of Afghanistan’s porous border with Pakistan and the Taliban using areas in Pakistan’s federally administered tribal area as safe havens. “There is much more freedom this year to move across the border,” the chairman said.
The NATO-led coalition in Afghanistan is at 52,700 personnel, and the effort in the country remains in what’s known as an economy-of-force mission, Mullen said. “What we’re going through now is an ability to win in the combat standpoint, but we don’t have the troops to hold the areas,” he explained.
Mullen said a recent statement by Pakistani Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani on the terrorist problem in the country is encouraging. He praised Gilani’s appreciation of the terrorist threat and the decision to place Gen. Ashfaq Parvez Kayani in command of Pakistan’s frontier corps in addition to the army.
Pakistani security forces launched attacks against the Taliban in and around Peshawar. “It’s important that this be sustained and pressure placed on insurgents,” Mullen said. “I’m encouraged by what I’ve seen, but I think we must be patient.”
U.S. assistance must be as robust as it can possibly be, and the Pakistani government and military must move as rapidly as they can against this problem, the chairman said.
U.S. and NATO leaders are focused on the challenges in Afghanistan, particularly in the east and the south. “We are exploring a number of options and opportunities to get a better understanding of the scope of the threat and the best means with which to counter it,” Mullen said. “I’ve made no secret of my desire to flow more U.S. forces to Afghanistan just as soon as I can. Nor have I been shy about saying those forces will not be available unless or until the situation in Iraq allows us to do so.”
The United States does not have the forces available to flow into Afghanistan without a reduced requirement in Iraq. “We’re on an increasingly positive path in Iraq, and … I’m hopeful that towards the end of the year, opportunities like that will be created,” Mullen said.
No easy solution or quick fix is available in Afghanistan, the admiral said, and more troops will be necessary. Some NATO allies have committed to sending more troops, but not until the end of the summer and into the fall.
“We need and are pursuing a broader interagency international approach -- one that includes infrastructure improvement, foreign investment and economic incentives,” Mullen said. “I’m hopeful these efforts will pay off in the future.”
But everyone needs patience, the chairman said. “As we have seen in Iraq, counterinsurgency warfare takes time and a level of commitment and flexibility,” he said. “We remain committed to a stable future for Afghanistan and her people, and I’m just as convinced as ever that we will achieve it.”
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Scouts Make Friends, Help Keep Community Safe
[ratings]
As the sun baked the urban Iraqi streets to a soul-melting 120 degrees, Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers continued a mission that has occupied much of the past four months for them.
Members of the Scout/Sniper Platoon from Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Combined Arms Battalion, 68th Armor Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, walk and drive the streets of the Sha’ab neighborhood in the Adhamiyah district of northern Baghdad to meet the people and to help deter extremists from conducting attacks there.
But, these Soldiers aren’t the only ones on the front lines protecting the Iraqi people as well as American Soldiers. Members of the Iraqi security forces and Sons of Iraq play a vital role in the security here.
“It helps them to get involved and it lets them know exactly what they’re looking for and work together with us to deter that threat as far as searching vehicles, helping with community and give their presence and have them put a face on the same mission that we’re trying to accomplish over here which is to keep the neighborhood safe,” said Sgt. 1st Class Lanny McLaughlin, a Nogales, Ariz., native who serves as the platoon sergeant for the Scout/Sniper Platoon.
McLaughlin stops at several checkpoints during his routine patrols in the area. Once there, he speaks to the men running them – be it national police, Iraqi army or Sons of Iraq (Abna al Iraq)– to ensure they have the proper uniform, enough ammunition and are properly checking vehicles.
This is also a time for McLaughlin to learn about the needs of the neighborhood. In talking to the people, it has opened up another source of information to keep the people safe.
“They will talk to us on a regular basis. If they do see something suspicious, then they’ll stop us and let us know what’s going on,” he said.
He also noted an instance when a welder pulled up wires for an improvised explosive device and gave them to his patrol.
These improvements to what was once a bastion for terrorists are an encouraging site to the Soldiers walking the streets daily.
“When we first got here there was still a lot of trash lying around. It’s cleaned up a lot. For the most part, from the time that we took over, the people that have lived around here, the majority of them have been all about us. They’ve very happy that we’re around,” said Cpl. Robert Stearns, a Clackamas, Ore., native, who serves as a scout with the Scout/Sniper Platoon, HHC, 1st CAB, 68th AR.
As the sun baked the urban Iraqi streets to a soul-melting 120 degrees, Multi-National Division – Baghdad Soldiers continued a mission that has occupied much of the past four months for them.
Members of the Scout/Sniper Platoon from Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Combined Arms Battalion, 68th Armor Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, walk and drive the streets of the Sha’ab neighborhood in the Adhamiyah district of northern Baghdad to meet the people and to help deter extremists from conducting attacks there.
But, these Soldiers aren’t the only ones on the front lines protecting the Iraqi people as well as American Soldiers. Members of the Iraqi security forces and Sons of Iraq play a vital role in the security here.
“It helps them to get involved and it lets them know exactly what they’re looking for and work together with us to deter that threat as far as searching vehicles, helping with community and give their presence and have them put a face on the same mission that we’re trying to accomplish over here which is to keep the neighborhood safe,” said Sgt. 1st Class Lanny McLaughlin, a Nogales, Ariz., native who serves as the platoon sergeant for the Scout/Sniper Platoon.
McLaughlin stops at several checkpoints during his routine patrols in the area. Once there, he speaks to the men running them – be it national police, Iraqi army or Sons of Iraq (Abna al Iraq)– to ensure they have the proper uniform, enough ammunition and are properly checking vehicles.
This is also a time for McLaughlin to learn about the needs of the neighborhood. In talking to the people, it has opened up another source of information to keep the people safe.
“They will talk to us on a regular basis. If they do see something suspicious, then they’ll stop us and let us know what’s going on,” he said.
He also noted an instance when a welder pulled up wires for an improvised explosive device and gave them to his patrol.
These improvements to what was once a bastion for terrorists are an encouraging site to the Soldiers walking the streets daily.
“When we first got here there was still a lot of trash lying around. It’s cleaned up a lot. For the most part, from the time that we took over, the people that have lived around here, the majority of them have been all about us. They’ve very happy that we’re around,” said Cpl. Robert Stearns, a Clackamas, Ore., native, who serves as a scout with the Scout/Sniper Platoon, HHC, 1st CAB, 68th AR.
Combined forces killed several militants in Oruzgan province
Coalition and Afghan National Army forces killed several militants in Khas Oruzgan District, Oruzgan province Friday.
The combined forces received small-arms fire from militants while on a routine reconnaissance patrol.
Combined forces returned fire and called in air support, killing several militants.
After the attack, combined forces entered the militants’ compound and found a dead, young girl.
On-scene medical personnel determined the girl was killed before the attack had started.
The combined forces received small-arms fire from militants while on a routine reconnaissance patrol.
Combined forces returned fire and called in air support, killing several militants.
After the attack, combined forces entered the militants’ compound and found a dead, young girl.
On-scene medical personnel determined the girl was killed before the attack had started.
Coalition forces capture suspected SG criminals in Adhamiyah
[ratings]
Coalition forces captured two suspected Special Groups criminals during operations Wednesday in the Adhamiyah district of Baghdad.
Based on intelligence information, Coalition forces targeted the home of a suspected weapons facilitator and trainer wanted in connection with high-profile attacks on Coalition and Iraqi Security Forces.
Coalition forces entered the targeted individual’s residence, where they detained him and one associate without incident. Coalition forces also discovered numerous weapons and ammunition at the suspect’s house.
[ratings]
Coalition forces captured two suspected Special Groups criminals during operations Wednesday in the Adhamiyah district of Baghdad.
Based on intelligence information, Coalition forces targeted the home of a suspected weapons facilitator and trainer wanted in connection with high-profile attacks on Coalition and Iraqi Security Forces.
Coalition forces entered the targeted individual’s residence, where they detained him and one associate without incident. Coalition forces also discovered numerous weapons and ammunition at the suspect’s house.
[ratings]
33 Militants killed in Khost province
Coalition forces killed 33 militants Monday in southern Khost province.
A Coalition aerial recon team located the militants, who were armed with heavy machine-guns and RPGs.
After positive identification, Coalition forces engaged and killed them with attack helicopters and a close air support bomber.
A Coalition aerial recon team located the militants, who were armed with heavy machine-guns and RPGs.
After positive identification, Coalition forces engaged and killed them with attack helicopters and a close air support bomber.
Army Releases Account of First 18 Months After Saddam's Fall
A new book released by the Army examines the challenging period of transition from conventional combined-arms operations to full-spectrum and counterinsurgency operations in Iraq after the fall of Saddam Hussein’s regime in April 2003.
On Point II was written to provide a historical account for future Army leaders on the decisive 18 months following the overthrow of Saddam’s regime, Army Col. Timothy Reese, an armor officer and one of the book’s authors, told online journalists and bloggers in a teleconference yesterday.
“We tried to capture the improvisation and ingenuity of the average American soldier as they … work through the challenges of detainee operations and working without enough linguists and trying to figure out how to oversee or supervise reconstruction operations,” On Point II co-author Donald Wright added.
Reese explained that a period of uncertainty followed the regime’s collapse, when the message wasn’t clear on how U.S. and coalition forces would handle the turnover of power in Iraq.
“Was it an immediate turnover of power to … some sort of Iraqi governing body, or was it going to be a multiyear process of allied occupation leading to a constitution and elections?” he asked.
“That [message] was certainly missing, and it was a message that changed radically in the course of 30 days, so that hurt,” Reese said.
“You can imagine that, in that chaos, where assumptions are changing every day, it would have been very difficult for the military to sort of form this overall command message to the population about exactly where the coalition hoped to take Iraq and its citizens,” Wright said.
As a result, Reese said, U.S. Army and coalition forces throughout Iraq had to initiate programs without the presence of psychological operations and civil affairs assets and without guidance from centralized leadership.
“So, in places around the country, units kind of take up the slack and develop their own messages and programs,” Reese said, “and they filter up towards the higher headquarters, rather than from the higher headquarters down.”
Wright said that these challenges at the tactical level in the first 18 months after the collapse of the Saddam’s regime are the focus of most chapters in On Point II.
“Most of the chapters of the book are really at the tactical level,” Wright said. “How are the soldiers trying to deal with the guidance that they get from above, as well as the challenges they face in the [areas of responsibility]?
“And they’re all very different,” he continued. “The 1st Armored Division is facing a much different situation in Baghdad than is the 101st [Airborne Division] up in the Mosul area.”
Reese cited some examples of locally developed initiatives -- “everything from simple stuff like rules of the road when driving and how to pick up trash in your neighborhood, to how we’re going to form a local advisory council in your town or your province to help establish some self-government.”
“We try to describe that transition and show the incredible … ingenuity and initiative of units around the spectrum,” Reese added.
Regarding the apparent lack of central leadership during the period the book covers, Reese said he hopes readers won’t walk away thinking senior leaders in the U.S. government and armed forces were unprepared.
“The magnitude of the tasks in [front of] them were so immense and the time so short that it … would have been very, very difficult, no matter how good that planning was and how good the team structure was in these organizations,” he said.
“Even if that planning had been a bit more robust and had … happened earlier on in the process,” Reese added, “a lot of the assumptions on which that planning was done turned out to be incorrect once the coalition got to Baghdad.”
Reese explained that On Point II is part of a series of books on military history being published by the Combat Studies Institute at Fort Leavenworth, Kan.
“This book should be seen in the context of the Army as a learning organization, … where the Army tries to learn as best it can from its operations -- good, bad or otherwise,” he said.
On Point II was written to provide a historical account for future Army leaders on the decisive 18 months following the overthrow of Saddam’s regime, Army Col. Timothy Reese, an armor officer and one of the book’s authors, told online journalists and bloggers in a teleconference yesterday.
“We tried to capture the improvisation and ingenuity of the average American soldier as they … work through the challenges of detainee operations and working without enough linguists and trying to figure out how to oversee or supervise reconstruction operations,” On Point II co-author Donald Wright added.
Reese explained that a period of uncertainty followed the regime’s collapse, when the message wasn’t clear on how U.S. and coalition forces would handle the turnover of power in Iraq.
“Was it an immediate turnover of power to … some sort of Iraqi governing body, or was it going to be a multiyear process of allied occupation leading to a constitution and elections?” he asked.
“That [message] was certainly missing, and it was a message that changed radically in the course of 30 days, so that hurt,” Reese said.
“You can imagine that, in that chaos, where assumptions are changing every day, it would have been very difficult for the military to sort of form this overall command message to the population about exactly where the coalition hoped to take Iraq and its citizens,” Wright said.
As a result, Reese said, U.S. Army and coalition forces throughout Iraq had to initiate programs without the presence of psychological operations and civil affairs assets and without guidance from centralized leadership.
“So, in places around the country, units kind of take up the slack and develop their own messages and programs,” Reese said, “and they filter up towards the higher headquarters, rather than from the higher headquarters down.”
Wright said that these challenges at the tactical level in the first 18 months after the collapse of the Saddam’s regime are the focus of most chapters in On Point II.
“Most of the chapters of the book are really at the tactical level,” Wright said. “How are the soldiers trying to deal with the guidance that they get from above, as well as the challenges they face in the [areas of responsibility]?
“And they’re all very different,” he continued. “The 1st Armored Division is facing a much different situation in Baghdad than is the 101st [Airborne Division] up in the Mosul area.”
Reese cited some examples of locally developed initiatives -- “everything from simple stuff like rules of the road when driving and how to pick up trash in your neighborhood, to how we’re going to form a local advisory council in your town or your province to help establish some self-government.”
“We try to describe that transition and show the incredible … ingenuity and initiative of units around the spectrum,” Reese added.
Regarding the apparent lack of central leadership during the period the book covers, Reese said he hopes readers won’t walk away thinking senior leaders in the U.S. government and armed forces were unprepared.
“The magnitude of the tasks in [front of] them were so immense and the time so short that it … would have been very, very difficult, no matter how good that planning was and how good the team structure was in these organizations,” he said.
“Even if that planning had been a bit more robust and had … happened earlier on in the process,” Reese added, “a lot of the assumptions on which that planning was done turned out to be incorrect once the coalition got to Baghdad.”
Reese explained that On Point II is part of a series of books on military history being published by the Combat Studies Institute at Fort Leavenworth, Kan.
“This book should be seen in the context of the Army as a learning organization, … where the Army tries to learn as best it can from its operations -- good, bad or otherwise,” he said.
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Enemy Neutralized in Iraq’s Anbar Province, Colonel Says
The enemy in the eastern portion of Iraq’s Anbar province has been neutralized, the coalition commander in the area said June 30.Al-Qaida in Iraq still can launch occasional horrific attacks, but in Ramadi and Fallujah - once strongholds of the terror group - security is allowing the region to transfer to provincial Iraqi control, Marine Corps Col. Lewis Craparotta, the area’s coalition commander, told Pentagon reporters in a briefing via satellite from Camp Fallujah.
Still, the colonel said, Coalition and Iraqi forces must remain vigilant, as al-Qaida wants to come back into the area. “Both cities have historical significance to the insurgents,” he explained.
In an attack in Karmah last week, for example, an al-Qaida suicide bomber infiltrated a tribal leader meeting. The explosion killed three Americans and 15 Iraqi leaders.
“We watch the enemy actions very closely,” Craparotta said. “We work side by side with both the Iraqi Police and the Iraqi Army to reduce the enemy's capabilities to execute these attacks, and to prevent them from re-establishing themselves in our area.”
Iraqi Police and Soldiers are full partners in the fight against al-Qaida, the colonel said.
“Yesterday, … we sat down with the police and the army and talked about this incident in Karmah,” he said, “and we decided there was a need to conduct an operation that … was completed this morning.”
Craparotta said he asked the Fallujah police chief what he needed from the coalition to perform the mission. “He told me that he would just as soon I watch my students go out there and execute and that he was confident he could do it, and if I was available to provide a [quick-reaction force], that that would be enough,” the colonel said.
While the events in Karmah are tragic, he said, they need to be taken in perspective.
In May and June, five other suicide-vest attacks and a car-bomb attack took place in Fallujah, he said, and Iraqi Police and Soldiers minimized the effects of these attacks and prevented many more attacks. The police, in fact, have the lead in Ramadi and Fallujah, he added.
“The relationships that we have developed with the Iraqi police have allowed us to reduce slowly our 24-hour presence [and] put them in the lead for most of the day-to-day operations,” the colonel said. “There is mutual respect among the forces and a common goal: protecting the citizens. Both the Iraqi Army and the Iraqi Police leadership have certainly proven capable. They have risen to every occasion, and they have certainly earned the respect of the population.”
Coalition experts continue to train the Iraqi Security Forces. Military and police transition teams work with Iraqi units to hone their skills.
Security progress allows civilian agencies and the Iraqi government to step forward to improve the quality of life for the average Iraqi, Craparotta said. “We've assisted or are assisting the Iraqis with local governance, reconstruction, implementing the rule of law and generally trying to improve the quality of life for the citizens,” he said. “Local governments are continuing to prosper, with mayors and city councils taking on more and more responsibility. And we expect that that will accelerate here, as we transition to provincial Iraqi control.”
ISOF, elite ISF units continue clean up operations in Amarah
Iraqi Special Operations Forces, the Hillah Special Weapons and Tactics team and the Baghdad National Emergency Response Unit are playing key roles in the Government of Iraq’s massive campaign to disrupt the criminal elements in the city of Amarah.
With the cooperation of tribal leaders and many of the local citizens, Iraqi Security Forces began setting the foundation to enforce the rule of law in the city June 19. ISOF, Hillah SWAT and the Baghdad National ERU conducted several precision operations throughout the city targeting Special Groups criminals and abettors.
According to Iraqi Brig. Gen. Noa’amam Dakeel Jawad, the Iraqi National ERU commander, ISOF and ISF will continue to conduct operations in the area until the citizens of Amarah are safe and free from the criminals in their city.
“The ERU, ISOF and Hillah SWAT have all played a large role on missions of high importance,” he said. “Things have been successful and will continue to be.”
In the past several days, Jawad and his men, along with Hillah SWAT and ISOF, have detained more than 20 individuals on warrants issued by the Ministry of Interior.
The past weeks’ clearing efforts have allowed the Iraqi government to take control of Amarah and work to establish a lasting presence for security and stability. Many Special Groups criminals, particularly the top-level criminals, fled the area to avoid capture.
“So far, there has been little to no retaliation and no innocent [people] have been hurt,” said an ISOF sergeant.
While most of the criminals fled in fear since their operations began, Jawad and his men are still making detainments, finding evidence of criminal activity and recovering criminals’ weapons caches.
In one particular mission, the ERU searched a downtown building believed to be the headquarters for Special Groups. In addition to discovering an apparent torture room containing what were identified as interrogation tools and a large number of anti-Coalition propaganda, they found a large weapons cache consisting of explosively formed projectiles, more than 100 rounds of assorted ammunition, home-made bombs, wire and anti-tank rounds, along with information on methods of attacking Coalition forces’ convoys.
Other successful operations included the detainment of a man reported to be the leader of a criminal cell specializing in sectarian killings and a financier for the organization. The ERU has also detained an Iraqi Police chief who is suspected of being a Special Groups criminal leader, facilitator and financier who has great influence over the IP in the area, as well as a police officer wanted for his involvement with sectarian killings.
According to a local sheikh, Amarah is used as a shipment point for all of the provinces in Iraq and a “warehouse” for weapons and wanted criminals traveling back and forth from Iraq and Iran.
In-depth searches for hidden weapons caches in Amarah by Iraqi Forces yielded approximately seven sites. Estimated finds by ISOF, SWAT, and ERU include roughly 180 lbs. of explosive compounds, 600 anti-tank mines, 280 rocket propelled grenades, 200 various EFP-making materials, more than 1,000 assorted rounds of ammunition, 320 mortar rounds, explosive-making materials and various weapons including more than 80 pieces of sniper equipment.
Citizens are counting on the GoI to continue seizing illegal weapons and weeding out the corrupt officials and criminal elements from their city.
Jawad believes the GoI will be successful and will ultimately turn Amarah into a peaceful community and a better place for its citizens.
When the clearing operations are complete, there will be more opportunities for work, and the youth will be more apt to join the Iraqi Security Forces, said Jawad. With criminals gone, people will prosper from a stimulated economy and improved safety and security.
“I would like all the bad people brought to justice,” said Jawad. “Everyone should be held accountable. The law should be forced on everyone to guarantee the success of the mission for Amarah and all of Iraq.”
With the cooperation of tribal leaders and many of the local citizens, Iraqi Security Forces began setting the foundation to enforce the rule of law in the city June 19. ISOF, Hillah SWAT and the Baghdad National ERU conducted several precision operations throughout the city targeting Special Groups criminals and abettors.
According to Iraqi Brig. Gen. Noa’amam Dakeel Jawad, the Iraqi National ERU commander, ISOF and ISF will continue to conduct operations in the area until the citizens of Amarah are safe and free from the criminals in their city.
“The ERU, ISOF and Hillah SWAT have all played a large role on missions of high importance,” he said. “Things have been successful and will continue to be.”
In the past several days, Jawad and his men, along with Hillah SWAT and ISOF, have detained more than 20 individuals on warrants issued by the Ministry of Interior.
The past weeks’ clearing efforts have allowed the Iraqi government to take control of Amarah and work to establish a lasting presence for security and stability. Many Special Groups criminals, particularly the top-level criminals, fled the area to avoid capture.
“So far, there has been little to no retaliation and no innocent [people] have been hurt,” said an ISOF sergeant.
While most of the criminals fled in fear since their operations began, Jawad and his men are still making detainments, finding evidence of criminal activity and recovering criminals’ weapons caches.
In one particular mission, the ERU searched a downtown building believed to be the headquarters for Special Groups. In addition to discovering an apparent torture room containing what were identified as interrogation tools and a large number of anti-Coalition propaganda, they found a large weapons cache consisting of explosively formed projectiles, more than 100 rounds of assorted ammunition, home-made bombs, wire and anti-tank rounds, along with information on methods of attacking Coalition forces’ convoys.
Other successful operations included the detainment of a man reported to be the leader of a criminal cell specializing in sectarian killings and a financier for the organization. The ERU has also detained an Iraqi Police chief who is suspected of being a Special Groups criminal leader, facilitator and financier who has great influence over the IP in the area, as well as a police officer wanted for his involvement with sectarian killings.
According to a local sheikh, Amarah is used as a shipment point for all of the provinces in Iraq and a “warehouse” for weapons and wanted criminals traveling back and forth from Iraq and Iran.
In-depth searches for hidden weapons caches in Amarah by Iraqi Forces yielded approximately seven sites. Estimated finds by ISOF, SWAT, and ERU include roughly 180 lbs. of explosive compounds, 600 anti-tank mines, 280 rocket propelled grenades, 200 various EFP-making materials, more than 1,000 assorted rounds of ammunition, 320 mortar rounds, explosive-making materials and various weapons including more than 80 pieces of sniper equipment.
Citizens are counting on the GoI to continue seizing illegal weapons and weeding out the corrupt officials and criminal elements from their city.
Jawad believes the GoI will be successful and will ultimately turn Amarah into a peaceful community and a better place for its citizens.
When the clearing operations are complete, there will be more opportunities for work, and the youth will be more apt to join the Iraqi Security Forces, said Jawad. With criminals gone, people will prosper from a stimulated economy and improved safety and security.
“I would like all the bad people brought to justice,” said Jawad. “Everyone should be held accountable. The law should be forced on everyone to guarantee the success of the mission for Amarah and all of Iraq.”
Militants killed, detained in Nimroz province
BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan (June 30, 2008) – Several militants were killed and one was detained Sunday during a Coalition forces operation to disrupt militant activities in Nimroz province.
Coalition forces searched compounds in Khash Rod District targeting a Taliban leader known to facilitate suicide IED attacks.
Coalition forces identified numerous militants armed with AK-47s, rocket-propelled grenades and hand grenades. Multiple militant groups engaged the force in a compound and in nearby areas. Coalition forces then killed them using small-arms fire. Two additional groups of armed militants maneuvered against the force and were killed by airstrikes.
The force discovered numerous AK-47s, ammunition vests, ammunition, RPG warheads, grenades and IED materials. The weapons, munitions and IED material were destroyed to prevent future use.
Coalition forces searched compounds in Khash Rod District targeting a Taliban leader known to facilitate suicide IED attacks.
Coalition forces identified numerous militants armed with AK-47s, rocket-propelled grenades and hand grenades. Multiple militant groups engaged the force in a compound and in nearby areas. Coalition forces then killed them using small-arms fire. Two additional groups of armed militants maneuvered against the force and were killed by airstrikes.
The force discovered numerous AK-47s, ammunition vests, ammunition, RPG warheads, grenades and IED materials. The weapons, munitions and IED material were destroyed to prevent future use.
June 30 airpower summary: B-1Bs deter enemy combatants
Coalition airpower integrated with coalition ground forces in Iraq and International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan during operations June 30, according to Combined Air and Space Operations Center officials here.
In Afghanistan, Air Force F-15E Strike Eagles dropped guided bomb unit-31s and GBU-38s onto an anti-Afghan forces rocket team in the vicinity of Worzhanah Kalay. Furthermore, an F-15E conducted shows of force in the area in order to deter enemy activities by anti-Afghan forces. An on-scene joint terminal attack controller declared the mission a success.
An Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II fired rockets onto anti-Afghan forces in the vicinity of Bari Kowt. Furthermore, F-15Es dropped a GBU-38 and GBU-31s onto anti-Afghan forces' fighting positions. The missions were reported as a success by a JTAC.
In the vicinity of Uruzgan, French Mirage 2000s dropped GBU-12s onto enemy positions. A Mirage 2000 also performed shows of force over enemy positions in the area. A JTAC confirmed the mission as a success.
A Royal Air Force GR-7 Harrier and GR-9 Harrier fired rockets and dropped Enhanced Paveway II munitions onto enemy combatants in the vicinity of Uruzgan. The mission was declared a success by a JTAC.
An A-10 conducted shows of force in order to deter activities by anti-Afghan forces in the vicinity of Qarah Bagh. A JTAC reported the mission as a success.
In the vicinity of Khas Konar, F-15Es dropped GBU-38s onto anti-Afghan forces positions. The mission was confirmed as a success by a JTAC.
In Bagram, A-10s dropped GBU-12s onto anti-Afghan forces positions. A JTAC declared the mission a success.
An F-15E performed shows of force in order to deter activities by anti-Afghan forces in the vicinity of Konduz. The mission was reported as successful by a JTAC.
In the vicinity of Nagalam, F-15Es dropped GBU-31s and GBU-38s onto anti-Afghan forces fighting positions. The mission was confirmed as a success by a JTAC.
A GR-7 and GR-9 fired rockets and dropped a 540-pound free-fall bomb onto enemy combatants in the vicinity of Deh Chopan. An Air Force B-1B Lancer dropped GBU-38s onto an enemy machine gun team in the area. A JTAC declared the missions as successful.
In Khowst, a B-1B dropped GBU-38s onto enemy combatants. The mission was reported as successful by a JTAC.
Shows of force were conducted by an A-10 in order to deter activities by anti-Afghan forces in the vicinities of Khas Konar and Bari Kowt. A JTAC confirmed the missions as successful.
In Qalat, a GR-7 performed a show of force in order to deter enemy activities in the area. The mission was declared successful by a JTAC.
Shows of force were performed by Mirage 2000s over enemy positions in the vicinities of Tarin Kowt and Molla Ashraf. A JTAC reported the missions as successful.
In total, 54 close-air-support missions were flown as part of the ISAF and Afghan security forces, reconstruction activities and route patrols.
Thirteen Air Force and Royal Air Force intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft flew missions as part of operations in Afghanistan. Additionally, two RAF aircraft performed tactical reconnaissance.
In Iraq, coalition aircraft flew 48 close-air-support missions for Operation Iraqi Freedom. These missions integrated and synchronized with coalition ground forces, protected key infrastructure, provided overwatch for reconstruction activities and helped to deter and disrupt terrorist activities.
Twenty-six Air Force and Navy ISR aircraft flew missions as part of operations in Iraq. Additionally, eight Air Force, Navy and RAF aircraft performed tactical reconnaissance.
Air Force C-130 Hercules aircraft and C-17 Globemaster IIIs provided intra-theater heavy airlift, helping to sustain operations throughout Afghanistan, Iraq and the Horn of Africa.
Approximately 117 airlift sorties were flown, 514 tons of cargo delivered and 1,335 passengers were transported. This included approximately 93,000 pounds of troop re-supply air-dropped in Afghanistan.
Coalition C-130 crews from Australia, Canada and Iraq flew as part of operations in Afghanistan or Iraq.
On June 29, Air Force, French, RAF and Singaporean tanker crews flew 56 sorties and off-loaded approximately 3.2 million pounds of fuel to 266 receiving aircraft.
In Afghanistan, Air Force F-15E Strike Eagles dropped guided bomb unit-31s and GBU-38s onto an anti-Afghan forces rocket team in the vicinity of Worzhanah Kalay. Furthermore, an F-15E conducted shows of force in the area in order to deter enemy activities by anti-Afghan forces. An on-scene joint terminal attack controller declared the mission a success.
An Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II fired rockets onto anti-Afghan forces in the vicinity of Bari Kowt. Furthermore, F-15Es dropped a GBU-38 and GBU-31s onto anti-Afghan forces' fighting positions. The missions were reported as a success by a JTAC.
In the vicinity of Uruzgan, French Mirage 2000s dropped GBU-12s onto enemy positions. A Mirage 2000 also performed shows of force over enemy positions in the area. A JTAC confirmed the mission as a success.
A Royal Air Force GR-7 Harrier and GR-9 Harrier fired rockets and dropped Enhanced Paveway II munitions onto enemy combatants in the vicinity of Uruzgan. The mission was declared a success by a JTAC.
An A-10 conducted shows of force in order to deter activities by anti-Afghan forces in the vicinity of Qarah Bagh. A JTAC reported the mission as a success.
In the vicinity of Khas Konar, F-15Es dropped GBU-38s onto anti-Afghan forces positions. The mission was confirmed as a success by a JTAC.
In Bagram, A-10s dropped GBU-12s onto anti-Afghan forces positions. A JTAC declared the mission a success.
An F-15E performed shows of force in order to deter activities by anti-Afghan forces in the vicinity of Konduz. The mission was reported as successful by a JTAC.
In the vicinity of Nagalam, F-15Es dropped GBU-31s and GBU-38s onto anti-Afghan forces fighting positions. The mission was confirmed as a success by a JTAC.
A GR-7 and GR-9 fired rockets and dropped a 540-pound free-fall bomb onto enemy combatants in the vicinity of Deh Chopan. An Air Force B-1B Lancer dropped GBU-38s onto an enemy machine gun team in the area. A JTAC declared the missions as successful.
In Khowst, a B-1B dropped GBU-38s onto enemy combatants. The mission was reported as successful by a JTAC.
Shows of force were conducted by an A-10 in order to deter activities by anti-Afghan forces in the vicinities of Khas Konar and Bari Kowt. A JTAC confirmed the missions as successful.
In Qalat, a GR-7 performed a show of force in order to deter enemy activities in the area. The mission was declared successful by a JTAC.
Shows of force were performed by Mirage 2000s over enemy positions in the vicinities of Tarin Kowt and Molla Ashraf. A JTAC reported the missions as successful.
In total, 54 close-air-support missions were flown as part of the ISAF and Afghan security forces, reconstruction activities and route patrols.
Thirteen Air Force and Royal Air Force intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft flew missions as part of operations in Afghanistan. Additionally, two RAF aircraft performed tactical reconnaissance.
In Iraq, coalition aircraft flew 48 close-air-support missions for Operation Iraqi Freedom. These missions integrated and synchronized with coalition ground forces, protected key infrastructure, provided overwatch for reconstruction activities and helped to deter and disrupt terrorist activities.
Twenty-six Air Force and Navy ISR aircraft flew missions as part of operations in Iraq. Additionally, eight Air Force, Navy and RAF aircraft performed tactical reconnaissance.
Air Force C-130 Hercules aircraft and C-17 Globemaster IIIs provided intra-theater heavy airlift, helping to sustain operations throughout Afghanistan, Iraq and the Horn of Africa.
Approximately 117 airlift sorties were flown, 514 tons of cargo delivered and 1,335 passengers were transported. This included approximately 93,000 pounds of troop re-supply air-dropped in Afghanistan.
Coalition C-130 crews from Australia, Canada and Iraq flew as part of operations in Afghanistan or Iraq.
On June 29, Air Force, French, RAF and Singaporean tanker crews flew 56 sorties and off-loaded approximately 3.2 million pounds of fuel to 266 receiving aircraft.
Guantanamo Detainee Charged for Role in USS Cole Attack
WASHINGTON, June 30, 2008 – A Saudi Arabian national being held at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, has been charged with planning and preparing for the attack on the USS Cole that killed 17 U.S. sailors and wounded 47 others, the Defense Department announced today.
Abd al-Rahim al-Nashiri was charged today in connection with the Oct. 12, 2000, attack on the vessel as it awaited refueling in the Port of Aden in Yemen, Air Force Brig. Gen. Thomas Hartmann, legal advisor to the convening authority in the Office of Military Commissions, told Pentagon reporters today.
The chief prosecutor has recommended that the case be tried as a death-penalty case.
Susan J. Crawford, the convening authority, will review the case and determine which, if any, of the charges should be referred for trial by a military commission, Hartmann said. If she refers the case for trial, Crawford must also decide if she will refer it as a capital case.
The Nashiri swearing brings to 20 the number of detainees at Guantanamo Bay involved in the military commissions process, Hartmann said.
He noted that the military commissions process provides the accused several protections, including representation by a military counsel and a civilian counsel of his own choosing at no expense to the government. The protections, guaranteed by the Military Commissions Act, ensure that Nashiri “receives a fair trial consistent with American standards of justice,” Hartmann said.
Nashiri was charged today with conspiracy to violate the law of war, murder in violation of the law of war, treachery or perfidy, terrorism, destruction of property in violation of the law of war, intentionally causing serious bodily injury, providing material support to terrorism and attempted murder.
Charges brought against Nashiri today claim he rented apartments and facilities near the Port of Aden to prepare for an attack, bought the boat and explosives used in the attack and arranged for two co-conspirators to launch the attack.
During the attack, two men dressed as civilians are alleged to have piloted what looked like a small, civilian garbage barge up to the ship. The two men allegedly made friendly gestures to crewmembers aboard the ship before detonating explosives hidden in their boat that blasted a 40-foot hole in the side of Cole.
Nashiri also was charged with participating in the unsuccessful attack on the USS The Sullivans as it refueled in the Port of Aden on Jan. 3, 2000, and for helping attack the French supertanker SS Limburg in the Gulf of Aden on Oct. 6, 2002. That attack left one crewmember dead and spilled about 90,000 gallons of oil into the gulf.
Nashiri was arrested in October 2002 in the United Arab Emirates and was under CIA custody before being transferred to Guantanamo Bay in 2006.
Hartmann said the charges issued today result from an extensive investigation that brought together the intelligence and law enforcement communities. “We’d rather do it right. We’d rather do it thoroughly. We’d rather do it fairly than quickly,” he said.
If the Nashiri case goes to trial, Hartmann said the defense counsel will have the opportunity to argue points before the military judge, including allegations that Nashiri was subjected to the “waterboarding” interrogation technique by the CIA. “The judge, just as in any matter of law, will make a final decision as to the validity of any piece of evidence,” he said.
Pentagon spokesman Bryan Whitman emphasized the Defense Department’s commitment to “ensuring that both the process and the military commissions proceedings themselves are as transparent as possible, within the bounds of security and safety.”
The United States has used military commissions for war crime trials since the Revolutionary War, he noted.
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Abd al-Rahim al-Nashiri was charged today in connection with the Oct. 12, 2000, attack on the vessel as it awaited refueling in the Port of Aden in Yemen, Air Force Brig. Gen. Thomas Hartmann, legal advisor to the convening authority in the Office of Military Commissions, told Pentagon reporters today.
The chief prosecutor has recommended that the case be tried as a death-penalty case.
Susan J. Crawford, the convening authority, will review the case and determine which, if any, of the charges should be referred for trial by a military commission, Hartmann said. If she refers the case for trial, Crawford must also decide if she will refer it as a capital case.
The Nashiri swearing brings to 20 the number of detainees at Guantanamo Bay involved in the military commissions process, Hartmann said.
He noted that the military commissions process provides the accused several protections, including representation by a military counsel and a civilian counsel of his own choosing at no expense to the government. The protections, guaranteed by the Military Commissions Act, ensure that Nashiri “receives a fair trial consistent with American standards of justice,” Hartmann said.
Nashiri was charged today with conspiracy to violate the law of war, murder in violation of the law of war, treachery or perfidy, terrorism, destruction of property in violation of the law of war, intentionally causing serious bodily injury, providing material support to terrorism and attempted murder.
Charges brought against Nashiri today claim he rented apartments and facilities near the Port of Aden to prepare for an attack, bought the boat and explosives used in the attack and arranged for two co-conspirators to launch the attack.
During the attack, two men dressed as civilians are alleged to have piloted what looked like a small, civilian garbage barge up to the ship. The two men allegedly made friendly gestures to crewmembers aboard the ship before detonating explosives hidden in their boat that blasted a 40-foot hole in the side of Cole.
Nashiri also was charged with participating in the unsuccessful attack on the USS The Sullivans as it refueled in the Port of Aden on Jan. 3, 2000, and for helping attack the French supertanker SS Limburg in the Gulf of Aden on Oct. 6, 2002. That attack left one crewmember dead and spilled about 90,000 gallons of oil into the gulf.
Nashiri was arrested in October 2002 in the United Arab Emirates and was under CIA custody before being transferred to Guantanamo Bay in 2006.
Hartmann said the charges issued today result from an extensive investigation that brought together the intelligence and law enforcement communities. “We’d rather do it right. We’d rather do it thoroughly. We’d rather do it fairly than quickly,” he said.
If the Nashiri case goes to trial, Hartmann said the defense counsel will have the opportunity to argue points before the military judge, including allegations that Nashiri was subjected to the “waterboarding” interrogation technique by the CIA. “The judge, just as in any matter of law, will make a final decision as to the validity of any piece of evidence,” he said.
Pentagon spokesman Bryan Whitman emphasized the Defense Department’s commitment to “ensuring that both the process and the military commissions proceedings themselves are as transparent as possible, within the bounds of security and safety.”
The United States has used military commissions for war crime trials since the Revolutionary War, he noted.
Six Units Get Call for 2009 Iraq Deployment
WASHINGTON, June 30, 2008 – The Defense Department has alerted six combat units for deployment to Iraq from January to March 2009, officials said here today.
Though the announcement identifies forces for the current level of effort in Iraq, Pentagon spokesman Bryan Whitman said, it does not try to predict decisions down the road.
“It’s proper, prudent planning to give units the time to train and to ensure they are notified in a deliberate fashion and well in advance of when they would have to deploy,” Whitman said.
The four Army combat brigades and two Marine regimental combat teams cover about 33,000 personnel. These are normal rotation forces, and all of the units have the capability of performing full-spectrum combat operations.
The Marine units notified today are Regimental Combat Team 8 and Regimental Combat Team 6, both based in Camp Lejeune, N.C.
The Army units are the 1st Cavalry Division’s 1st and 2nd brigade combat teams, based at Fort Hood, Texas; the 10th Mountain Division’s 3rd Brigade Combat Team, based at Fort Drum, N.Y.; and 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team of the Pennsylvania National Guard’s 28th Infantry Division.
The announcement for the 12-month deployments assumes a force level of 15 brigade combat teams in Iraq. “This is a planning effort for maintaining a 15-combat-brigade level,” Whitman said.
“That doesn’t mean decisions down the road couldn’t affect this,” he added. “You can always have units that redeploy earlier and deploy later. This is a planning effort to sustain the current level of operations.”
The last surge brigade will leave Iraq by the end of July. Some 45 days later, officials in Iraq, U.S. Central Command and the Pentagon will assess conditions in Iraq “post-surge,” Whitman said. Decisions after that review could affect deployments, he said.
Though the announcement identifies forces for the current level of effort in Iraq, Pentagon spokesman Bryan Whitman said, it does not try to predict decisions down the road.
“It’s proper, prudent planning to give units the time to train and to ensure they are notified in a deliberate fashion and well in advance of when they would have to deploy,” Whitman said.
The four Army combat brigades and two Marine regimental combat teams cover about 33,000 personnel. These are normal rotation forces, and all of the units have the capability of performing full-spectrum combat operations.
The Marine units notified today are Regimental Combat Team 8 and Regimental Combat Team 6, both based in Camp Lejeune, N.C.
The Army units are the 1st Cavalry Division’s 1st and 2nd brigade combat teams, based at Fort Hood, Texas; the 10th Mountain Division’s 3rd Brigade Combat Team, based at Fort Drum, N.Y.; and 56th Stryker Brigade Combat Team of the Pennsylvania National Guard’s 28th Infantry Division.
The announcement for the 12-month deployments assumes a force level of 15 brigade combat teams in Iraq. “This is a planning effort for maintaining a 15-combat-brigade level,” Whitman said.
“That doesn’t mean decisions down the road couldn’t affect this,” he added. “You can always have units that redeploy earlier and deploy later. This is a planning effort to sustain the current level of operations.”
The last surge brigade will leave Iraq by the end of July. Some 45 days later, officials in Iraq, U.S. Central Command and the Pentagon will assess conditions in Iraq “post-surge,” Whitman said. Decisions after that review could affect deployments, he said.
Bush Signs $162 Billion Supplemental War Funding Bill
WASHINGTON, June 30, 2008 – President Bush today signed a $162 billion supplemental bill that principally will fund U.S. military operations abroad.Bush thanked congressional leaders of both parties for agreeing to provide what he described as “vital funds” to men and women in uniform serving in harm’s way.
“I appreciate that Republicans and Democrats in Congress agreed to provide these vital funds without tying the hands of our commanders and without an artificial timetable of withdrawal from Iraq,” he said.
The bill takes shape as Iraq experiences the lowest levels of violence since March 2004. The legislation also comes to fruition as the last of the five Army brigades to deploy with the “troop surge” in Iraq prepares to return next month.
Bush announced the temporary 33,000-troop surge in January 2007 to tamp down violence in Iraq and help prepare Iraq’s national security forces to maintain security. The first surge brigade returned home in March, and the final redeployment next month will reduce the number of brigades in Iraq to 15.
“We welcome them home,” Bush said, referring to redeploying troops. “And with this legislation, we send a clear message to all that are serving on the front line that our nation continues to support them.”
The funding also provides servicemembers a more generous education package, which for the first time could be passed to family members if troops opt not to use it themselves. Bush said transferability of GI Bill education benefits helps fulfill a debt of gratitude the nation owes military families.
“They endure sleepless nights and the daily struggle of caring for children while a loved one is serving far from home,” he said. “We have a responsibility to provide for them, so I'm pleased that the bill I signed today includes an expansion of the GI Bill.
“It will help us to meet our responsibilities to those who support our troops every day, America's great military families,” he added.
Other items in the legislation include a $465 million initiative that partners the United States with Mexico and other Central American nations in an effort to crack down on violent drug-trafficking gangs. It provides nearly $2.7 billion in relief for states that experience disasters, such as the recent flooding and tornadoes in the American Midwest. The bill also expands unemployment insurance benefits.
The president praised the legislation as an example of successful bipartisan support for members of the U.S. military.
“This bill shows the American people that even in an election year, Republicans and Democrats can come together to stand behind our troops and their families,” he said.
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