American hospital holds Health Fair

July 2009 All Americans help Afghans ‘iron-out’ issues pg 31 Contents Freedom Watch Contents July 2009 Staff

Commander, 40th Public Affairs Det. Maj. Mark Lastoria 4 40th PAD NCOIC Sgt. Michael Armstrong Air operation brings Editor/Print NCO humanitarian aid Sgt. John Zumer to northeastern Layout Editor Pfc. Derek Kuhn

Associate Layout Editor Sgt. Boris Shiloff Associate Staff Writer 8 Layout & Design Spc. Rachelle Cornwell Chosin stop timber- Distribution Specialist/ Staff Writer smuggling donkeys Pfc. Cody Thompson

Staff Writer/Layout & Design Pfc. Kimberly Cole

The Freedom Watch magazine is a 10 monthly publication of the 40th PAD and Airmen detonate Combined Joint Task Force 82. Soviet ordnance Commander, CJTF-82 Maj. Gen. Curtis Scaparrotti

Public Affairs Director, CJTF-82 Lt. Col. Clarence Counts Jr.

Freedom Watch, a U.S. Department of Defense publication, is published the first Mon- 18 day of every month by the 40th PAD located American hospital at building 815-F Dragon Village at Bagram Air Field, Afghanistan. Printed circulation is holds health fair 10,000 copies per month. In accordance with DoD Instruction 5120.4, this DoD magazine is an authorized publication for members of the U.S. military overseas. Contents of the Free- dom Watch are not necessarily the official view of, or endorsed by, the U.S. government or the Department of Defense.

All submissions are subject to editing by the 40th PAD, which can be reached at DSN 22 318-481-6367 or via email at freedomwatch@ ADT cultivates progress swa.army.mil.

Cover photo by Spc. Ida Tate, 7th Signal Brigade PAO Paratroopers from the 82nd Airborne Division Special Troops Battalion, Company B ready an MRAP before departing Bagram Air Field on June 20, to meet with local leaders. 1 Comissioned into the Infantry in June of Command Sgt. Maj. Capel entered the 1978 after graduating from the United military in October of 1977 where he States Military Academy at West Point attended basic training at Ft. Jackson.

In 1984, Maj. Gen. Scaparrotti completed Command Sgt. Maj. Capel completed the Infantry Officer Advanced Course at Ft. advanced infantry training at Ft. Benning. Benning From 1977 to 1981, Command Sgt. Maj. Capel served in the 1st In July of 1989, Maj. Gen. Scaparrotti Battalion, 325th Airborne Infantry served as the Operations Officer for the Regiment, 82nd Airborne Division. 1st Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment, 10th Mountain Division Command Sgt. Maj. Capel’s other From May 1994 to April 1996, Maj. Gen. assignments include: Ft. Kobbe, Scaparrotti commanded 3rd Battalion, Panama; Ft. Jackson; USAER 325th Airborne Combat Team, Southern and US Army Europe, Germany; European Task Force in Vicenza, Italy and ROTC in Columbus, Ga.

In 1998, Maj. Gen. Scaparrotti served as Command Sgt. Maj. Capel the Chief of the Army Initiatives Group served as the Battalion Sergeant in the Deputy Chief of Staff’s Office for Major for the 1st Battalion, 504th Operations and Plans in Washington, DC. Parachute Infantry Regiment from September 2001 to July 2003. In 1999, Maj. Gen. Scapparrotti commanded the 2nd Brigade, 82nd From July 2003 to May 2006, Command Airborne Division. Sgt. Maj. Capel served as the Regimental

Command Sergeant Major for the From July 2001 through July 2003, Maj. 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment. Gen Scapparrotti served as the Assistant Deputy Director for Joint Operations on the Joint Staff in Washington DC. Command Sgt. Maj. Capel became the 22nd Division Command From July 2003 to July 2004, Maj. Gen. Sergeant Major for the 82nd Scaparrotti served as the Assistant Airborne Division in May of 2006. Division Commander (Maneuver) for the 1st Armored Division during OPERATION Command Sgt. Maj. Capel’s duty IRAQI FREEDOM positions include: Rifleman, MG Gunner, Team Leader, Squad Leader, From August 2004 to July 2006, Maj. Drill Sergeant, NCOA instructor, Gen. Scaparrotti served as the 69th Assistant Operations Sergeant, Commandant of Cadets, Operations Sergeant, ROTC Military Academy, at West Point. Instructor, First Sergeant, Battalion Command Sergeant Major, and Maj. Gen. Scaparrotti assumed command Regimental Command Sergeant Major. of the 82nd Airborne Division.

2 3 Winds of change Story and Photos by Spc. Jason Dorsey 1-178 Inf. Regt., 3rd BCT, 1st ID, PAO Helicopters bring more than humanitarian aid to Lagh- man province; they bring hope of future

progress and The 1st 178th Infantry Regiment of the Illinois National Guard delivers two humanitarian aid loads to the village of Garmunay in Laghman province on May 23. Four kicker prosperity. box loads were flown in by a CH-47 Chinook. During the mission, Key Leader Engagements were conducted and Laghman Province Deputy Governor Murtaza Hedayt Qalandarzai speaks to the Commander Mohammed Jan, ANA Recon 4/2/201st Kandak commander, hands hu- humanitarian assistance was delivered to help local Af- media during the key leader engagement in Garmunay Village, Laghman prov- manitarian assistance supplies to villagers during Longbow III in the village of Garmu- ghans. ince on May 23. The deputy governor stressed to the villagers of his province nay, Laghman province on May 23. that ISAF is in Afghanistan to help rebuild and to assist with security.

For the third time in a year, an air assault mission in the with local government officials, including Murtaza Hedayt “That road will eventually bring more projects, develop- western Mehtar Lam province,” Erwin said. “They primarily Laghman province of northeastern Afghanistan provided hu- Qalandarzai, Deputy Governor of Laghman province, and Col. ment and governance in the long run. The mission will survive through subsistence agriculture, growing wheat in the manitarian aid and coordinated information-exchange efforts Mohammed Jan, 201st ANA Recon 4/2/201st Kandak com- help decrease the influence of [militants] in the area and area. There is little commerce because of the remoteness.” between locals and International Security Assistance Forces mander. will help build the relationship with GIROA, the PRT and Soon thereafter, a large crowd of Afghans surrounded the leaders concerning ongoing counterinsurgency operations in During the meeting, village elders expressed the hardships also the new Agricultural Development Team who can as- white kicker boxes full of HA products. The village elders the area. they endure on a daily basis because of the lack of such essen- sist farmers throughout the province.” took charge of the excited crowd and began establishing or- On May 24, members of the 1st Battalion, 178th Infantry tials as clean water and electricity. A general description of why U.S. Forces are in Afghani- der by forming lines, and distributed different items from the Regiment of the Illinois National Guard, Provincial Recon- “Agricultural issues are the main concern for the people of stan was also a burning question for some of the local na- boxes. The ANA along with village elders handed out flour, struction team, Kansas Agriculture Development Team, Ma- Garmunay Village, with water and good fertilizer being very tionals attending the meeting. sugar, beans, rice, and radios to the locals. rine Embedded Training Team and the Afghan National Army scarce items,” Col. Eric C. Peck, 1-6 Kansas Agriculture De- Each commander explained to the people how his unit “The local elders and villagers reacted positively to the HA, conducted Operation Longbow III, which was a Key Leader velopment Team commander, said. works and how they were there to work in close coordina- smiling and thanking the ANA, deputy governor and ISAF Engagement to provide humanitarian assistance in the prov- After listening to the issues from the village elders, the mili- tion with Afghan Forces to assist the Afghan government to leaders,” Erwin said. ince. tary leaders reassured them of their cooperation and intent for be successful until their assistance is no longer needed and Overall, the mission was a success, offering a chance for “The mission was important to the area because it is our provincial reconstruction efforts in the area. In return the lo- ISAF forces can go home. the Laghman residents, ANA and ISAF leadership to meet and fourth major effort to link the people of this remote region with cals will report insurgent activity to ISAF Forces and will not At the end of the meeting the TF Bayonet commander discuss development in the area and build relationships. [Afghan government] officials in Laghman province,” said assist in Anti-Afghan activities. announced to the crowd that they brought humanitarian aid “Longbow III was a success because it was free of enemy Maj. Jack Erwin, a Civil Military Operations officer from St. “In coordination with [Government of the Islamic Republic products for the village as a show of concern and support interaction,” said Lt. Col. Daniel J. Fuhr, TF Bayonet com- Charles , Ill. of Afghanistan], PRT Laghman is planning a road project that from the Afghan Government. mander. “More importantly, it extended the opportunity for the Through fields of wheat, Soldiers were greeted by locals runs along the old spice route which will connect the people “The people of the area need [humanitarian assistance] deputy governor of Laghman province to meet with its con- who led them to the village elders, where the KLE was held of the Galuch with the rest of Laghman province,” Erwin said. because they are poor and live in a very remote area in stituencies in such a remote location.”

4 5 Education has become a key to be built during the school focus in Kunar province for the expansion project should bring Provincial Reconstruction Team, With the construc- education to almost 18,000 students Class is in session which has mapped out a construc- in Kunar. The school at Tornaou is tion plan estimated at $15.9 mil- tion of these new build- the first to be constructed. lion to build 58 schools along the “ "Right now, Kunar's education border in Afghanistan. ings, children will have infrastructure is in need of some "The PRT believes education a place to learn every help. Many villages do not have Kunar PRT begins construction plays a vital role in rebuilding school buildings within walking Afghanistan," said Lt. Cmdr Rob day, rain or shine.” distances. It is not uncommon to Ross, the PRT engineering Officer see children studying under the in Charge. --Lt. Cmdr Rob Ross, the village tree. Extremes in weather on first of many schools The PRT inspected the ground- PRT engineering Officer can easily prevent classes from work for the first school in the being held in these unsheltered ar- Tornaou Village, of the Chowkay eas. With the construction of these Story and Photos by Lt. j.g James Dietle District, June 2. new buildings, children will have Kunar PRT, 3rd BCT, 1st Inf. Div., PAO Located on the border between a place to learn every day, rain or Afghanistan and Pakistan, Kunar shine," Ross said. province is one of the most vola- Like all PRT projects in Kunar, a tile areas in eastern Afghanistan. local Afghan construction company However, despite these difficul- is contracted to build the Tornaou ties, PRT Kunar has ambitiously Village School. The company uses planned to start the construction local labor from the village, which of the 58 schools before the end of creates better job opportunities and 2009. allows villagers to show pride in The Tornaou Village School their work. holds a special significance to the Since rich farmland is scarce members of PRT Kunar for sev- throughout the Dewagal Valley, the eral reasons. school will have a unique "The Dewaygal On the new school site, Kunar PRT Commander, Murray two-story design. This J. Tynch quizzes children of Tornaou village in Kunar Valley road was just province on their spoken English lessons. design minimizes the completed in February footprint of the school to and it has given us save valuable land that the chance to bring is better suited for farm- development further up ing. When complete it the valley," Ross said. will be the tallest build- "We are continuing to ing in the small village. build on our previous Over 300 boys and girls successes." will be able to receive PRT Kunar has primary education at the worked closely with facility. the Kunar Department "By increasing edu- of Education and local cation we can raise the district governors quality of lives for these to prioritize the 58 children and families. locations where schools We look forward to the should be built to time when the children provide education for of Kunar will all have as many children as the chance to be engi- possible. neers, teachers and doc- With each school tors," said Cmdr. Mur- housing around 300 Villagers start construction for the school in Tornaou village. This two-story school ray J. Tynch, Kunar PRT Teachers of Tornaou Village in Kunar province, Afghanistan, conduct classes under trees to mitigate the intense summer heat, June 2. students, the 58 schools is the first of 58 new schools projected for the Kunar province,Afghanistan. commander. 6 7 Derailing donkeys Chosin battle wood smuggling in Kunar Story by Sgt. Amber Robinson Task Force Spartan, PAO

Kunar province, a lush area near the timber smuggling is even more lucrative. Pakistan border, has in the past been a Most of the timber comes through the Korengal valley and is conduit for illegally smuggled goods then moved down the Konar River to strategic points. It is picked from the Korengal Valley into Pakistan. up by trucks and then moved up the Narang valley through the Lately however, Soldiers from 1st Battal- mountains into Pakistan. ion, 32nd Infantry Regiment, Task Force Although the Pakistan border has various checkpoints that Chosin, have been making a difference monitor traffic, the border is still porous. Trucks carrying the il- against one of the biggest culprits, timber legal timber can’t move through the checkpoints, so it is loaded Courtesy Photo smuggling. onto the backs of donkeys and transported across the rough bor- Soldiers of 1st Battalion, 32nd Inf. Regt., intercept illegal timber as it is smuggled through the Narang Valley in Kunar province, Afghanistan. Donkeys are the primary way that timber smugglers are able to export the timber without detection over the rough terrain of the Afghanistan- “The enemy funds their operations der terrain. Pakistan border. a number of ways,” said Lt. Col. Mark TF Chosin’s un-manned surveillance equipment has photo- O’Donnell, TF Chosin Commander. “They graphed and recorded the smuggling procedure on various oc- move with the same ease. They get to that point and simply tant timber smuggling activity to our attention once we got smuggle illegal gems, opium and timber.” casions. dump the timber.” here.” In the months following the fall of the “We have plenty of footage,” said Capt. Nathaniel Miller, Portions of the Narang Valley have become littered with As it stands, all money that comes from timber smuggling Taliban, many insurgents fled to Pakistan Company D Commander, TF Chosin. “What we’ve observed is abandoned illegal timber. The timber is usually confiscated is spent in Pakistan. The only outcome Afghanistan usually where they continue to operate and help fund a well- oiled process. These guys have been doing this for awhile and stored in Asadabad, the largest city near the Narang Val- sees from the exploitation of its natural resources is a well- insurgency operations in Afghanistan. Vari- and have their routine down to a science. Although the proce- ley. armed and relatively well-funded insurgency. ous resources are imported across the border dure may seem primitive, it works, and more lumber than we can Aside from the visible results, there are other indicators “If Karzai (Afghan President Hamid Karzai) can turn this which fund weapons for enemy groups oper- imagine has been smuggled over the border in this way.” the task force has slowed the illegal trade. around and capitalize on the industry, it would not only bring ating in Afghanistan. Although trucks are used in certain stages of the smuggling, “The price of illegal weapons have doubled,” said Mill- more money to the country, but the cutting could be standard- The timber is mainly used for expensive, most of the movement is done via the Konar River with pack er. “We are also experiencing more focused attacks on our ized and the resources protected. Right now, with no regu- ornate furniture, produced exclusively in Pak- mules and donkeys. strategic outposts. The enemy is mad that we are putting a lations, the Korengal’s timber could be in danger of being istan. “The wood is put into the river, where smugglers ride it like stop to this and are illustrating that through more vicious over-cut.” Prior to the arrival of TF Chosin, the smug- a raft to strategic pick-up sites,” said Miller. “The wood is only attacks.” Although many steps must be taken before the problem gling was a practically untouched practice, said taken a short distance by truck until it is transferred onto don- The illegal timber industry has been operational for years, is solved, the troops of TF Chosin will continue to respond officials in the battalion. keys for the last leg of the route into Pakistan.” but with smugglers now having Taliban connections, the in- when called upon. “Mostly the units before us did not have the Strategic outposts have been erected by TF Chosin to hinder volvement of International Security Assistance Force troops “Until Afghan officials can get a hold on how to fix this, troop strength that we have to combat the prob- the timber flow, and they have caused much difficulty for smug- has been more evident. we’ll fix it the best we know how,” said O’Donnell. “And lem,” said O’Donnell. glers. “Currently we have met with all of our local Afghan that’s with strategic operations. In the future, hopefully things Although drug and gem smuggling are both “The outposts have definitely put a dent in the process,” said leaders and all are aware of the problem,” said O’Donnell. will be different, but for now we will handle the problem as lucrative ways for the enemy to fund insurgency, Miller. “Smugglers go so far with the wood and realize they can’t “It was actually the governor of Kunar that brought the bla- it is.” 8 9 troops operating out of a nearby Combat Outpost. The The EOD team quickly moved closer to examine the additional manpower was used to provide security, as- bomb. A decision was made to detonate the bomb in its sist with communications and transport approximately present location because, according to Hood, the fuse was 1,000 sandbags to the site. active and in good condition. “The sandbags are what we call protected works,” Under the guidance of Hood, troops unloaded the sand- added Hood, who, along bags and informed the vil- Blown with Gibson is stationed lage of nearly 5,000 people at Seymour Johnson Air “This was a former Soviet to clear the area for their Force Base in Goldsboro, safety. Hood stated the ad- N.C. “They mitigate the check point. We were very ditional troops make a dif- effects of the blast, which ference every time they go helps keep fragments and worried. We knew it could on mission, and are a key debris from causing dam- component in the EOD be- age to the area.” kill a lot of people.” ing able to focus on their When the Soldiers objective. away! rolled into town, they --Mahran Ali, APPF Commander “We can’t function with- were greeted by members out another element,” add- of the AFFP and local na- ed Hood. “Their presence tionals eager to see the ensures security among U.S. forces. other things, and allows us “The Soldiers are always helping us,” said Usali to focus on what we need to do without worrying about Agha, the Seya Khak village representative. “We are outside distractions.” happy to have them here. They care about us.” When Hood and his team were satisfied with the precau-

The controlled detonation of a 250-pound Soviet-era bomb sends debris and smoke into the side of the adjacent mountain near Seya Khak village, Wardak province, June 6.

Story and Photos by Sgt. Rob Frazier 5th MPAD

could kill a lot of people.” They live by the motto “Initial Later that afternoon, French soldiers operating out of For- ward Operating Base Airborne were on patrol and were in- Success or Total Failure” formed of the discovery by Ali and his team. The French took What may sound like an all-or-nothing mentality is what several photos and brought them to FOB Airborne to share motivates the Airmen of the three-man Explosive Ordnance with the EOD team. Disposal team at Forward Operating Base Airborne. “When the French brought in the photos, we were able to “It’s a challenge to say the least,” said Senior Airman Coo- do some research and discovered this was in fact a bomb from per Gibson, serving his second deployment in Afghanistan. the former Soviet Union,” said Tech Sgt. Van Hood, the Team “It’s something different every time we go out. You never Leader for EOD. “We knew we had to get rid of it before it fell know what you’re going to come across.” into the wrong hands.” That included a 250-pound Soviet-era bomb discovered Working with Catamount Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 87th June 6 by members of the Afghan Public Protection Force in Infantry Regiment, EOD put together a plan to dispose of the Seya Khak village. bomb and ensure the safety of Seya Khak villagers. “This was a former Soviet check point,” said Mahran Ali, According to Hood, EOD partnered with 2nd platoon Sol- Explosive Ordnance Disposal team leader, Tech Sgt. Van Hood, (far right) and an Afghan interpreter, speak with a Seya Khak village commander for the APPF. “We were very worried. We knew it diers from Apache Company and Psychological Operations representative as Senior Airman Cooper Gibson and an Afghan National Army Soldier look on June 6. To ensure safety, the EOD asked the villagers to evacuate their homes prior to detonating the Soviet-era bomb. 10 11 Artillerymen hone infantry skills in the field Story and Photos by Sgt. Rob Frazier, 5th MPAD

Due to a change in battlefield perform a wider variety of tasks. drills and today we’re performing fire conditions, Soldiers with 4th Battalion, The 25th is taking an infantry skills missions.” 25th Field Artillery Regiment, at Forward refresher course. That ‘refresher’ Pfc. Jonathan Riley, 4th Battalion, 2 Operating Base Airborne have been consists of combat rehearsal exercises said the opportunity to cross-train has training for more than six weeks to refine that include cordon-and-search, been a rewarding experience. their infantry skills. improvised explosive device response, “It’s good because we need to know Sgt. 1st Class David Morin, platoon perimeter security operations and how how to provide back-up to our comrades sergeant for 4th Battalion, said he has seen to interact with local nationals. outside the wire,” said Riley. “For me a decrease in artillery missions since his “This training gives the Soldiers it’s also exciting because infantry was last tour in Afghanistan. This decreased a wider variety of skills,” said Morin. my first choice when I joined the Army. need for artillery fire frees up Soldiers to “Yesterday we were running maneuver So now I get to do both!” 1 Below: Sgt. Rolla 1:Senior Airman Cooper Gibson displays one of the few re- Hoehn, 4-25th Field maining pieces of a detonated 250-pound Soviet-era bomb. Artillery Regiment, 2: Airmen from the Explosive Ordnance Disposal team, from peers through the Forward Operating Base Airborne, work with 2nd platoon Sol- viewfinder of the diers from Company A, 2nd Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment M119A2 Howitzer to load sandbags. Troops filled an estimated 1,000 sandbags to check his sight during a mission in Seya Khak village, Afghanistan, before picture. Although detonating a Soviet-era bomb. 3: A 250-pound Soviet-era the battery is pre- bomb discovered by Afghans in Seya Khak village. It is be- paring for infantry lieved the bomb had been buried at least 20 years. operations at 3 Forward Operat- ing Base Airborne, they still find time to maintain their pro- tionary measures, he gave the go-ahead added Townsend as he peered through were a few small pieces that fit into the ficiency with their artillery. to Airman 1st Class Chris Townsend. the windows of the MRAP. palm of Gibson and Hood’s hands. “Fire in the hole! Fire in the hole! Fire After a few minutes, Hood gave the “We were pretty pleased with the in the hole!,” shouted Townsend, who is warning over the radio, “Thirty sec- way things went today,” Hood stated. stationed at Royal Air Force Base Lak- onds!” “We were successful in mitigating enheath, England. What took nearly twenty years to damage, no one was hurt, and the blast Making the team’s intentions known, discover vanished 30 seconds later as a did not knock down any buildings.” he pulled the primer to ignite the fuse loud boom and black cloud rose among As the team walked away, Hood and jumped in the back of the EOD the mountains surrounding Seya Khak emphasized once again the goal of Mine Resistant Ambush-Protected ve- village. every EOD mission. hicle to move a safe distance from the After the smoke settled, the Soldiers, “Every one of these is a personal explosion. Airmen, and local Afghans made their challenge, and if it’s out there, we will find a way to take care of it!” “We’re always busy, and it’s good,” way up to the site. All that remained Above: Soldiers from 4-25th Field Artillery Regiment navi- gate across a creek during a dismounted patrol in Nerkh Val- ley, Afghanistan, June 4. The artillerymen recently began performing infantry operations in Wardak province.

12 13 “Based on the evidence I have seen the that was used in the attack is defi- Kunar officials, security nitely of Russian design and not U.S.,” said Wahidi. “All documents show only the facts about the explosion and no eye witness saw forces work together to a coalition member throw a grenade.” During the outdoor press interviews, Tynch spoke on the current situation in investigate Asadabad attack Asadabad. Story and Photos by Lt j.g James Dietle “This indiscriminate attack on the citi- Kunar PRT, 3rd BCT, 1st ID, PAO zens of Asadabad is the second in two weeks. Asadabad was recently targeted Coalition forces met with Afghan police, that security forces were not re- lage elders of the Asadabad area. by mortars that killed two and wounded leaders June 10 to discuss an explosion sponsible for the explosion. “These are your people, these are my 13. These attacks are not being conducted that occurred in Asadabad city the previ- “We have conducted this investigation people, show them the truth and they will against security forces, but against innocent ous day. after the attack very quickly and careful- listen and believe you. It is your respon- Afghans. We need your help to stop them The Kunar Provincial Reconstruction ly. I have checked and all the sibility,” stated Wahidi after giving them [the attacks] from happening,” Tynch ex- Team and the Kunar governor reviewed held by security forces members are ac- copies of the reports and findings. plained. the security forces’ most recent findings, counted for. We know that none of them The final event was a press conference “Some of the early reporting seems to which included grenade fragments and fired their weapons during the attack. I with both local and international media be wrong,” said Wahidi as the press confer- a video of the attack from an unmanned have shown you video of the event veri- to see the video and the Russian grenade ence ended. “Here is what we know now. aerial vehicle. fying that I am telling the truth of both fragments discovered at the scene. We know there was a blast. We know from This evidence, which has been pub- accounts,” said Commander Murray Tynch narrated the video footage for evidence that I have seen that it was a Rus- licly released by security forces, dem- Tynch, commander of Kunar PRT. the local Afghan leaders through an in- Cmdr. Murray Tynch meets with the Asadabad elders June 10, sian F1 grenade. There was no small arms onstrated to both Governor Sayed Wa- Afghan and security forces officials terpreter and explained what was hap- 2009, at the Kunar Governors compound showing them the evi- fire. We have seen footage that shows se- hidi and General Jalal, Kunar’s head of jointly presented their findings to the vil- pening in the video. dence they gathered with ANSF. The elders exam the character- curity forces did not attack or provoke our istics of the recovered grenade bits with those in the picture in citizens. As we continue to investigate to Afghanistan. find the perpetrators of this attack we will keep everyone informed on the event.”

Security forces deliver humani- tarian aid to the Government of Kunar Province. The aid will be distributed among the local families who were injured in the blast. The aid consists of bags of food, pots and pans, blankets and other items to help families in their time of need. The event took place June 10, 2009, in Kunar province, Afghanistan.

After showing the grenade pictures and video of the attack, Governor Sayed Wahidi and Cmdr. Murray Tynch hold a press conference. Wahidi tells the press: “Now you have seen the evidence, you have seen the truth. Go out and tell the people.” 14 15 Troops celebrate America’s 233rd birthday

Story and Photos by Capt. Michael Greenberger, 5th MPAD

U.S. Forces in Afghanistan kicked off Following the re-enlistment ceremony “Pride does not come at any particular the 4th of July with a rockin’ ceremony Army Sgt. Jeannie Tauala took the stage moment or opportunity. I was humbled marking America’s 233rd birthday. to sing “America the Beautiful”. As her today and my heart delivered.” Two service members each from the voice filled the red, white and blue-clad After the ceremony concluded, the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines, “clamshell” tent, members of the audi- CJTF-82 Band relinquished the musical eight in all, headlined the event by re- ence, flushed with pride, burst into thun- atmosphere to “No Reserve”, a rock en- enlisting in their respective branches to derous applause when she completed her semble also provided by CJTF-82. extend their tours of duty. song. The military 5-piece rock band belted On hand to administer their oath of “It was a huge honor to sing that out hits ranging from Led Zeppelin to enlistment was Maj. Gen. Curtis M. song on this day,” Tauala said. “It was Fall Out Boy. Among their sets, an orig- Scaparrotti, Commanding General, an honor not only to sing for the com- inal song composed by guitarist Army (From top left clockwise) Sgt. Jeannie Combined Joint Task Force-82 and Re- mander but for all the service members Staff Sgt. Kevin Quinones called “Fallen Tauala sings “America the Beautiful”; Maj. Gen. Curtis M. Scaparrotti, Com- gional Command East. not in our homeland on this day. I feel Comrades”. manding General, Combined Joint Task “It was very special,” said Navy Yeo- blessed.” “I was inspired by two fallen comrade Force-82 and Regional Command East man 3rd Class Marquell Vance, one of Following Tauala’s patriotic song ceremonies,” Quinones said. “In one congratulates Staff Sgt. Shance Jeffries, the servicemembers re-enlisting. “How several service members read poems to ceremony, an Air Force sergeant was after she re-enlisted at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, during a ceremony July 4 many E-4s can say they were re-enlisted the audience, such as Navy Senior Chief overwhelmed with tears because she lost marking America’s 233rd birthday, by the commanding general on the 4th Petty Officer Phillis Noiseaux’s recita- a buddy and it just hit me.” 82nd All American Band, Servicemem- of July?” tion dubbed “Wake the Memory of the Playing guitar since 1992, Quinones bers attending the ceremony, Staff This is Vance’s first re-enlistment in Dead”. wrote the lyrics and melody in ten min- Sgt. Kevin Quinones, guitarist for the Combined Joint Task Force-82 rock band which he signed up for another three “The spirit of the poem itself cap- utes on the Bagram Airfield flight line. “No Reserve” plays while vocalist Spc. years of service with the Navy. tured my personal spirit” said Noiseaux. Christine Permenter sings to the beat of Maj. Gen. Curtis band-leader Sgt. 1st Class James Do- M. Scapar- nahue, Navy Senior Chief Petty Officer rotti, Commanding Phillis Noiseaux recites a poem during a General, Com- ceremony July 4 marking America’s 233rd bined Joint Task birthday. Force-82 and Re- gional Command East, administers the oath of enlist- ment to a group of Photo by Spc. Ryan V. Rodney, 25th Signal Battalion servicemembers re-enlisting at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, dur- ing a ceremony July 4 marking America’s 233rd birthday.

Photo by Spc. Ryan V. Rodney, 25th Signal Battalion 16 17 On display American hospital holds health fair Story and Photos by Capt. Michael Greenberger , 5th MPAD

Servicemembers and civilians at Bagram Air Field recently learned ways to prevent injuries and minimize recovery time. Also on display were new vehicles that make transporting patients faster, safer and easier.

A row of specimen jars containing potentially hazardous wildlife alerts people to local environmental hazards at a health fair, sponsored by 18 the Staff Sgt. Heathe N. Craig Joint Theater Hospital, June 13. 19 another, operating room staff displayed a Sgt. Kerry Turner. “The more Soldiers ters of the 1st of the 168th General Aviation “large frag set”, a kit containing surgical we can prevent from getting sick the Support Battalion. instruments and items such as plates and more the hospital can focus on more se- Among them, a new ambulance con- screws used to mend broken bones. rious battle injuries.” verted from a Mine-Resistant, Ambush- Set-up under a shady overhang just Rounding out a total body concept, Protected vehicle. The MRAP ambulance, outside the hospital’s emergency room, the nutrition medicine offices let peo- new to forces in Afghanistan, offers medics patrons of the event were also treated ple know the facts behind supplements quick and safe battlefield extraction of in- to eerie specimens of snakes, spiders, meant to provide “instant results” vs. a jured people. The vehicle itself has many and mice floating in jars – all examples healthy diet and exercise. features not found in other modes of medi- of potentially dangerous local wildlife. “We don’t recommend the use of cal transportation, like a hydraulic litter lift Hosted by the 172nd Medical Detach- supplements,” said Tech. Sgt. Jason system and scores of trauma treatment sup- ment, this table was dedicated to envi- Wickman. “They’re not regulated by plies. ronmental health. the Federal Drug Administration and Also on display was a patient loader, re- Members of the 172nd perform quar- you don’t really know what you’re get- sembling a large container-elevator used to terly rotations in the area, visiting for- ting. Whereas if a person eats a healthy load patients onto large aircraft that don’t ward operating bases large and small to diet, they know what they’re getting and have loading ramps. perform environmental sampling, train shouldn’t need any supplements. No Among the unique vehicles and dis- field sanitation teams and make sure Sol- pill can replace a good workout in the plays, the health fair itself was unique to diers aren’t being exposed to anything gym.” Bagram. harmful. Several unique vehicles used in the “This is the first time this type of event “We promote readiness through pre- daily care of patients were displayed has been done here,” said Hannan. “But vention,” said the detachment’s non- outside the hospital in a landing zone oc- we hope to make this a regular event in the commissioned officer in charge, Staff cupied by medical evacuation helicop- future.”

An ambulance converted from a Mine-Resistant, Ambush-Protected vehicle is displayed at a health fair, sponsored by the Staff Sgt. Heathe N. Craig Joint Theater Hospital, June 13.

The Staff Sgt. Heathe N. Craig Joint Theater Hospital opened its doors June 13, “We promote readiness through prevention. to highlight a number of services avail- able to Servicemembers in the Regional The more Soldiers we can prevent from get- Command-East area of operations. ting sick the more the hospital can focus on Planned for weeks, hospital staff came together to construct unique displays il- more serious battle injuries.” lustrating what individual sections had to --Staff Sgt. Kerry Turner,172nd Medical De- offer. tachment non-commissioned officer in charge “We put the word out to the depart- ments and people stepped up as smartly as they could to put these displays together,” dom Restoration Center has seen about members have plenty of options to deal said the hospital’s deputy commander, Air 60 Servicemembers for issues from the with the stresses of combat. Inside the Force Col. Fred Hannan. “Warrior Care is combat related to the home related. clinic, services like stress and anger something we take very seriously and we “The goal of the Freedom Restoration management, suicide awareness and wanted to give people here a taste of what Program is to get people back to their prevention, and combat and operational the hospital has to offer – that we’re more jobs,” said Tech. Sgt. Maribel Meekins. stress education round out Task Force than just shots and a pharmacy.” “We instruct people in individual coping Med-East’s abilities to provide an ounce At one table were members of the new skills and provide counseling and our of prevention for a pound of cure. Freedom Restoration Center. Open since methods have led to a 99 percent return- Also on hand, dental specialists dis- February, the center focuses on educating to-duty rate.” played examples of just how much sugar Servicemembers to cope with problems in Combined with the Combat Stress is contained in a variety of soft drinks a combat zone. Since opening, the Free- Clinic located in the hospital, Service- available at the local dining facility. At Staff Sgt. Kerry Turner describes Afghanistan’s unique environmental hazards during a health fair sponsored by the Staff Sgt. Heathe N. Craig Joint Theater Hospital on June 13. 20 21 ADT ‘Plants Giving knowledge a chance a Seed and Story and Photos by Pfc. Chris Baker, Task Force Spartan PAO Afghan National Police from Pul-e- have a better learning experience,” said niture and supplies for the children who Alam and Soldiers of the 710th Brigade Lt. Col. Eugene Shearer, Commander, would otherwise be sitting on the ground,” Grows a Country’ Support Battalion, Task Force Spartan, 710th BSB. said Bennett. delivered approximately 2000 pounds “I’ve never been in school and tried to Bennett says one of the biggest requests of school supplies to the Darwesh and read and write while sitting on the floor. from local leaders were the desks. With Story and Photo by Sgt. Ryan C. Finch, Task Force Warrior PAO Karzai Elementary Schools, near Pul-e- The desks will create a more organized that request fulfilled, the battalion focus can shift toward other projects in the area Task Force Warrior’s Agri-Business Devel- Alam, June 2. classroom,” Capt. William Bennett, like power, well and building projects. opment Team made progress on an experimen- Notebooks, pens and soccer balls were Commander, Company A, 710th BSB. According to Shearer, many more im- tal farm and a demonstration farm designed to handed out, along with many other items Battalion leaders hope the basic sup- provements are on the way. increase agricultural production in the Panjshir in an attempt to provide more amenities plies will help make the learning process “In our area of operation we’ve planned Valley, June 13 and 15. for Afghan students. easier for Afghan children, who are ac- projects for several schools, mosques and “It’s important to develop this piece of land The most significant gift given during customed to having very little. roads,” said Shearer. into something that can be used and improved the day was work desks for the otherwise As Afghan children ran around excit- Shearer also mentioned the Internation- upon in the coming years,” said Army Master empty Darwesh Elementary. edly and asked Soldiers for pens, Ben- al Security Assistance Force’s dedication Sgt. John Herron, an ADT agronomist and hy- “When we found this school, it had nett explained the progress his unit has to helping in Afghanistan. drologist. no furniture whatsoever. What we’ve made in Logar. “It’s a long-term commitment. You can’t Herron went on to explain how the land has done, using Commander’s Emergency “We’ve made great strides to build get everything done right away. It takes the potential to feed more than a dozen villages Relief Program funds, we’ve brought trust and relationships in this area. To- time,” said Shearer. in the area. furniture for them in order for them to day’s a good day. We actually have fur- Members of the ADT visited the experimental farm on June 13, and worked with and trained 10 Afghans on improved soil hydration matters Command Sgt. at the demonstration farm on June 15. Maj. Shelton “We really want to come out here and get Williamson, 710th Brigade some soil samples, start making adjustments, Support Bat- and teach the local population how to get a bet- talion com- ter yield of crops,” said Army Staff Sgt. William mand sergeant J. Jones, an ADT agronomist. major, watches and smiles as The demonstration farm covers more than Afghan children seven acres, and the farm will likely grow dif- take school ferent crops that include corn. desks into “The soil is lacking in organic matter, and it’s the Darwesh very difficult for us to get it to retain water and Elementary school near moisture,” Herron said. He is working with the Pul-e-Alam in team to introduce straw into the soil to improve Logar province, hydration. June 2. The Local Afghans have also been working to desks were de- livered as part clear rocks from the field and finish an irrigation of a humanitar- system that will pump water from the Panjshir ian aid drop by River. 710th Brigade “The local Afghans are all very fast learners, Support Battal- and I think if they continue improving hydration Members of Task Force Warrior’s Agri-Business Development Team work an ion, Task Force Spartan. in the soil and follow the other techniques we experimental farm in Dashtak Village, Afghanistan, June 13. The ADT is also teach them, it could be the model for how crops working at a nearby demonstration farm to improve agricultural production can be grown in larger quantities,” Jones said. in the Panjshir Valley.

22 23 fghan National Se- Acurity Force and In- ANSF, ISAF reach out ternational Security As- sistance Force service members continued work- ing to improve life for Af- to Afghan villagers ghan citizens living in the Story and photos by Polish Army Maj. Marcin Gil Giro District of Ghazni

An Afghan National Po- province during recent op- liceman stands nearby as Afghan villagers pick erations. up farming tools and ANSF and ISAF joined up to conduct other supplies during a a five-day operation increasing safety for humanitarian mission and providing much needed goods to the in the Giro district of local population. The operation resulted Ghazni province June in two humanitarian aid drops to highly on12. Afghan National Security Forces and In- needy villages and one shura. ternational Security As- In all, more than 150 families from sistance Force service two of the poorest villages in the district, members brought food, Panah and Babakhur, benefitted from blankets and hand-held farming equipment for receiving humanitarian aid. ANSF and 150 families to help ISAF troops delivered food, blankets stimulate local improve- and hand-held farming equipment to ment in the villages of ISAF Soldiers talk to a village elder during a hu- help stimulate local improvement. An International Security Assistance Force soldier offers a backpack to an Afghan boy be- Panah and Babakhur. manitarian mission in the Giro district of Ghazni Meanwhile, 30 elders from villages fore the boy leaves with his blanket full of supplies received during a humanitarian mission province, June 12. in the Giro district of Ghazni province on June 12. Afghan National Security Forces soldiers in the district attended a shura with both and ISAF service members brought food, blankets and hand-held farming equipment for 150 ANSF and ISAF troops June 14. The families to help stimulate local improvement in the villages of Panah and Babakhur. meeting gave the villagers an opportu- nity to voice their concerns regarding lo- cal issues and the upcoming elections to ANSF and ISAF.

An International Security As- sistance Force soldier offers farming tools to Afghan villagers during a humani- tarian mission in the Giro dis- trict of Ghazni province on June 12. Afghan National Security Forces and ISAF service members brought food, blankets and hand-held farm- ing equipment for 150 families to help stimulate Afghan villagers stand in line to receive food, blankets and supplies brought to their Giro district in Ghazni province by Afghan National local improve- Security Forces and ISAF Servicemembers on June12. ment in the villages of Panah and Babakhur. 24 25 New Joint Operation Coordination New ambulances keep Center established in Wardak Photos and story by Spc. Jaime’ DeLeon, TF Spartan

hen a report comes transit time in ‘Czech’ in that someone in Wardak needs help, the AfghanW National Army and the Af- ghan National Police are trained to spring into action. Until recently, however, they didn’t have an easy way to coordinate with each other. June 14 marked a turning point on better communications as the grand opening of the Operation Coordination Center-Province fa- cility will make their synchroniza- tion efforts easier. “The OCCP is a place for the ANA, ANP, and (ISAF) forces to have a cen- tralized location in order to better coor- Afghan National Army Gen. Nezamuddin Choopan, with the help of Provincial Governor dinate between all three forces, but with Mohammad Fidai, cuts the ribbon officially opening the Operation Coordination Center-Prov- the ANA and ANP spearheading efforts,” ince in Mayden Shar, Wardak province, Afghanistan, June 14 said Sgt. 1st Class Wayne Trimble, acting officer in charge of the OCCP for ISAF. The building itself is small and neat, right in with his Afghan coworkers. work together in, as we work together in “The ANA and ANP are very dedicated Afghanistan.” Story and Photos by Filip Moravec surrounded by high stone walls that ob- Media Officer, Logar PRT struct the view of the picturesque Wardak to making their country a better place; Choopan was not the only one feeling the countryside. Within the walls of the com- they are really jumping in with both excitement of this momentous occasion. The public health system in Logar "This problem is more serious in those eleven ambulances for Logar now,“ Sid- pound geraniums bloom in neat planters feet.” ANA, ANP and U.S. Soldiers and civilians has been improved with the donation of districts, where security is not improved, diqui said. and small trees provide needed shade. Provincial Governor Mohammad toured the OCCP while drinking chai and seven ambulances, which will help with but also in isolated areas like Charkh, Beside this project, the Czech PRT The beautiful setting makes it easy to Fidai; Members of the Afghan National talking excitedly with each other. patient transportation between health fa- Kharwar or Azra. In some parts of prov- has began construction on two district forget the imminent threat nearby. That Army, Afghan National Police, and “We are happy the Americans are cilities in the province. ince, we had to rent cars for transporta- hospitals and has purchased photovoltaic is, until the radio begins to crackle with Spartan Brigade, 10th Mountain coming to our country, the peace is coming In the field of healthcare, the Provin- tion of the needy ones. The Czech PRT panels for ten health centers, maternity the sound of reports coming in. Division all came to the OCCP for the with them,” said Col. Fazalrahim Rahimi, cial Public Health Department closely donated seven ambulances, and we have clinics and district hospitals. In a split second, men of all three forc- ribbon cutting ceremony. ANA Air Force Operations Officer. “This cooperates with the non-governmental Guests were greeted outside the gate new building is allowing us to work es leap from their chairs and set down organization MRCA (Medical Refresher The public their cups of chai. The report warns of by ANP officers entrusted with event together with them and our own ANP Courses for Afghans). health system in a possible vehicle-borne improvised ex- security. Under the colors of the Afghan much easier.” "We have three district hospitals, five Logar has been improved with plosive device attack. Instantly a mem- Flag were dozens of chairs all filled with “The U.S. is just here to mentor and comprehensive health centers and eigh- people anxious to witness the historic help (the ANA and ANP) out, but they the donation of ber of the Afghan National Army sits teen basic health care centers in Logar. seven ambu- down at one radio and a U.S. Soldier sits event. definitely have the lead on this,” Trimble It is unfortunately not enough for the lances, which at another to spread the word. As the ceremony began, ANA said. 300,000 citizens of the province,“ said will serve for It didn’t take long for the OCCP to General Nezamuddin Choopan greeted With ISAF’s continued assistance, Aziz Rahman Siddiqui, of the MRCA. transportation between health reach this level of competence. the guests. After several speeches, the the ANA and ANP will move forward to The MRCA, which has been work- time had come to cut the ribbon. With counter insurgents with the new OCCP as facilities in the “Once the building was complete, it ing in Logar since 2005, has been unable province. only took the ANP and ANA a week to the help of Fidai, Choopan cut the ribbon a stable base. to arrange enough vehicles for patient move in and get things running,” said officially opening the OCCP. “I’m really looking forward to seeing transportation from villages to district Trimble, a Detroit native, who despite “Today is a happy day,” said what we can get accomplished here,” hospitals. According to the research, for his fair skin and piercing blue eyes fits Choopan. “We now have the OCCP to Trimble said with a smile. some 60 percent people living in rural areas, healthcare is hardly accessible. 26 27 Story by Abdo Zacheus, CJTF-82 Safety Office

lectricity kills hundreds and in- The following is a list of items supervisors Electric Shock First Aid While waiting for medical help, follow these Ejures thousands of people each can check in their daily walkthroughs of work Call your local emergency number immedi- steps: year, and deployed sections or billeting areas: ately if any of these signs or symptoms occur: Soldiers, Airman, Marines and Sailors ♦ Be aware that unusually warm or hot out- ♦ Cardiac arrest 1. Look first. Don't touch. The person may still are especially vulnerable. Overloaded lets may be a sign that unsafe wiring condi- ♦ Heart rhythm problems be in contact with the electrical source. Touching circuits, electrical modifications done tions exist. Unplug any cords to these outlets ♦ Respiratory failure the person may pass the current through you. by Servicemembers, and using substan- and do not use until a qualified electrician has ♦ Muscle pain and contractions 2. Turn off the source of electricity if possible. dard equipment are some of the common checked the wiring. ♦ Seizures If not, move the source away from you and the reasons for electrical accidents. Some of ♦ Know where the breakers and boxes are ♦ Numbness and tingling affected these accidents can be avoided by simply located in case of an emergency. Do not touch person, using a non conducting object made of following proper safety precautions and a person or electrical apparatus involved in an cardboard, plastic or wood. being alert and aware of your surround- electrical accident. Always disconnect the cur- 3. Check for signs of circulation (breathing, ings. A Servicemember injured or killed rent first. coughing or movement). If absent, begin CPR im- in a mishap is a loss to the unit when the ♦ Do not use outlets or cords that have ex- mediately. unit can least afford it. posed wiring. 4. Prevent shock. Lay the person down and, if ♦ Ensure all electrical equipment has the possible, position the head slightly lower than the Underwriters Laboratory approval sticker. trunk, with the legs elevated. ♦ Ensure only trained and authorized per- sonnel work on electrical equipment Caution ♦ Clearly label and rope off all electrical ♦ Don't touch the person with your bare hands if he or she is hazards as needed to prevent personnel from still in contact with the electrical current. ♦ Don't get near high-voltage wires until the power is turned touching or walking into circuit panels and off. Stay at least 20 feet away, much farther if wires are jumping wiring. and sparking. ♦ Do not daisy chain power strips and Do ♦ Call the fire department, and no- not stack adapters. tify them that it's an electrical fire. ♦ Never use water to put out the ♦ Make sure you keep at least 6 inch clear- flames, as that may cause serious ance in front of and around the wall outlets. shock. Use only an approved fire ex- Keep items or debris from making contact tinguisher (ABC), or leave the prem- with the power strips. ises. ♦ If possible, shut off the main ♦ Leave the technical work to the experts. breaker. Check for and report any potential electrical ♦ Be prepared for fires by installing issues such as: loose connections, exposed smoke detectors, acquiring fire extin- guishers, updating and correcting any wiring, and any burned or charred marks on electrical problems, and holding fire the wall. If this exists, Report It drills periodically. 28 29 Fast-roping for freedom: 82nd Airborne DSTB Afghan commandos add new skill to fight Story and Photos by Sgt. Michael Armstrong, 40th PAD supports local district Story and Photos by Pfc. Cody Thompson, 40th PAD company of Af- (Left) Army 1st Lt. Thomas Buller, 4th Battalion, 101st Air- he 82nd Airborne ghan comman- borne Regiment, 159th Combat A Aviation Brigade, 101st Airborne TDivision Special Troops Division (Air Assault), demon- Battalion, Company B dos conducted a two-day strates the proper way to “fast commander met with local training course for a valu- rope” to Afghan commandos from the 1st Company Com- Afghan leaders, June able skill, June 18 at FOB mando, 203rd Corps Commando Kandak, during a two-day train- 20, in Dandar Village, Salerno. ing course at Forward Operating Base Salerno, Afghanistan, June Afghanistan. Helicopter-borne insertion, better 18. Capt. Booker Wilson, 82nd Airborne known as air assault, is the movement of Division Special Troops Battalion, Com- military forces to engage and destroy ene- pany B commander from Fort Bragg, my forces or to seize and hold key terrain. N.C., met each leader to seek resolutions Fast-roping is a technique for descending to the major issues affecting villages Capt Booker Wilson, commander, 82nd Airborne Division Special Troops Battalion, Company a thick rope not unlike the one most Amer- in Kohe Safi district, Parwan province. B, takes a moment to talk with an Afghan National Policeman. icans used in high school gym class. This According to the elders and shura lead- technique is useful for deploying troops ers, a few of their concerns are quality the local economy. Wilson with the 82nd Airborne from a helicopter in places where the heli- of drinking water, dilapidated irrigation “Almost everyone in our village is DSTB Company B. copter itself is unable to touch down. systems and roads, lack of jobs, security, jobless, so they go to Iran and Pakistan Afghans in Dandar Village have to With the support and training from Sol- schools and school supplies. for work,” said Naqibullah, village el- travel far to receive medical treatment diers from Combined Joint Task Force – (Right) A commando from the 1st Company Com- According to the Central Intelligence der and teacher for Sanjali Village. mando, 203rd Corps Commando Kandak, slides where time could potentially prove Afghanistan and Task Force Attack, the down a fast rope during training at Forward Operat- Agency the unemployment rate in Af- “Find us contractors from across the fatal. One elder requested the 1st Company Commandos, 203rd Corps ing Base Salerno, Afghanistan, June 18. ghanistan is approximately 40 percent. province and hire locals from your construction of a health clinic in Commando Kandak, were instructed on New jobs could usher in the potential for village and when I return we will an objective and immediately secur- Dandar for the locals residing there. proper techniques for fast-roping onto increased money, which would bolster pay you to build schools and fix the ing the perimeter. Trainees use a rope “In the summer it is easy to travel irrigation systems and roads,” Capt. connected to a forklift, before graduat- to the hospital in Kabul, but in the Wilson, a Jackson, Miss., native, ing to actually jumping from a UH-60 winter the roads are covered with offered Naqibullah. Blackhawk helicopter. the future. snow and we cannot drive there,” Security was the concern for one During the training, Afghan Col. “That’s our natural behavior,” Nabi said Mohammad, the village elder village elder, although others reported Ggulam Nabi, the commander of the said. “When one of us learns something and shura for Dandar. Wilson’s little Taliban activity. 203rd, explained the need to have new, they teach it to others.” goal is to distribute payments to “I have been working with Coalition these Commandos trained in air as- “When the people of Afghanistan multiple contractors who will hire forces and Afghan National Police and sault. are able to see what the commandos are the locals from across the province would like to continue to in the future,” “This is a tactical advantage we doing for them, it helps us to get new to build better schools, clinics and said Lalsaid, a village elder from must learn,” said Nabi. “We need to recruits, make them professional and to roads. Lalabamba. “We’ve had problems with be able to drop forces quickly into help stop the enemies of Afghanistan “A civil affairs team assesses what the Taliban but if we had more security the fight. The helicopters can come from being destructive,” Nabi said. would be gained by placing a school it would be safer.” and drop us onto difficult terrain like “The commandos are held in high in a certain location,” said 1st Sgt. Capt. Wilson said he would “look mountains, dense orchards and behind regard in Afghanistan,” said Afghan Wilson. “Building a school creates into bringing a larger security presence the enemy without landing. Because of Capt. Abdul Saboor, the commander of an investment in that area.” to Lalabamba Village.” Afghan Capt. Abdul Saboor, (left), the com- this we need this training to eliminate 1st Company, “We are proud of how we With these new resources at hand mander of 1st Company Commandos, 203rd “We are trying to incorporate area terrorists and to defeat the enemies of are received by the people. The com- the villagers can bolster their local Corps Commando Kandak, watches the fast Spc. Joseph Stoffel, infantryman, 82nd Air- support groups with police mentorships economy and potentially create an rope training his commandos are conducting Afghanistan.” mandos are doing a great job and are we borne Division Special Troops Battalion, and U.S. Soldiers to increase security environment where they can build a at FOB Salerno June 18. Nabi also hopes that his comman- willing and ready to sacrifice ourselves Company B, dismounts to pull security dur- in the village,” said 1st Sgt. Ramah dos learn enough to train each other in for the people of Afghanistan.” ing their trip to Dandar Village, June 20. better Afghanistan. 30 31 Chief Warrant Officer 2 Nicholas Jones, Sgt. Mitchell Godwin Photos and Staff Sgt. Joseph Pospesel of 425th Brigade Special Troops Battalion, 4th Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 25th Infantry Division, inspect an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle in the Paktika from the Field Province, Afghanistan, June 3. From left, Master Sgt. John Nombrano, noncommissioned offi- cer in charge, Red Team, Combined Joint Task Force-82, Maj. Gen. Curtis Scaparrotti, 82nd Airborne Division and CJTF-82 commander, Command Sgt Maj. Thomas Capel, 82nd Abn. Div., CJTF-82 and Pfc. Richell Vannieuwenhuyzen, Finance Special- ist, CJTF-82 cut the cake to mark the Army's 234th birthday, June 14, at Bagram Air Field.

Photo by Pfc. Andrya Hill, 4th BCT, 25th Inf. Div., PAO

Photo by Sgt. Michael Armstrong, 40th PAD

Photo by Sgt. Rob Frazier, 5th MPAD Staff Sgt. Herb Clark, gunnery sergeant for Battery B, 4th Battalion, 25th Field Artillery Regiment, stands guard while Soldiers search a bus at a traffic check point in Wardak province, Afghanistan, June 13. This joint mission combined Soldiers from 4-25 and 2nd Battalion, 87th Infantry Photo by Staff Sgt. David Hopkins 3rd BCT, 1st ID, PAO Photo by Staff Sgt. David Hopkins 3rd BCT, 1st ID, PAO Regiment to ensure freedom of movement that has been the target of Photo by Pfc. Melissa Stewart TF Spartan, PAO Soldiers with Troop C, 6th Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regi- numerous improvised explosive device blasts this month. Staff Sgt. Eric Winn and Sgt. 1st Class Jimmy Carswell from Troop C, 6th Squad- Spc. Jeremy Todd, a military police Soldier with Brigade ment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, ron, 4th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, scan Special Troops Battalion, Task Force Spartan, laughs with climb a rugged mountain slope in Kunar province during a mountain slope with their weapons before their troop departs on a patrol in an Afghan National Police member at Combat Outpost a patrol. Kunar Province. Baugess in Logar province. 32 33 Photos from the Field

Photo by Pfc. Andrya Hill, 4th BCT, 25th Inf. Div., PAO Navy Lt. David Bennett, a Physician’s Assistant with the Paktika Photo by pfc. Derek Kuhn, 40th PAD Provincial Reconstruction Team, carries a civilian hit by an impro- A Soldier flies an American flag during a recent Chinook flight over vised explosive device into the 67th Forward Surgical Team facility Afghanistan. on Forward Operating Base Sharana for treatment following an at- tack June 7.

A pallet is combat off-loaded from a C-17 Globemas- ter III June 20, 2009, at Tarin Kowt Airfield, Afghani- stan. The 816th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron is the first unit to conduct a combat offload in theater.

Photo by Staff Sgt. David Hopkins 3rd BCT, 1st ID, PAO A Soldier with Troop C, 6th Squadron, 4th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, scans the surrounding area as night begins to fall during a mountain patrol in northeastern Afghanistan.

Photo by Air Force Staff Sgt. Shawn Weismiller, AFCENT Combat Camera Team

(Right) Afghan Border Policemen stand in front of a guard tower at the new ABP Headquarters in the village of Naray in Nari district, Kunar prov- ince, June 16. The new headquarters facility will house the 1st Kandak’s Headquarters, and includes living quarters, a dining room, adminis- trative buildings and weapons stor- age for the policemen. In addition to these essential facilities, the new headquarters also includes ameni- Photo courtesy of 5th MPAD ties for female members of the ABP in the area, as well as a mosque to Soldiers from the 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kan., and Soldiers from the 2nd Battalion, 12th Infantry help provide for all personnel at the Regiment, 4th Infantry Division, Fort Lewis, Wash., conduct a patrol outside the city of Nangalam, Kunar province, June 18. The 1st Inf. Div. headquarters. Soldiers are being replaced by their 4th Inf. Div. counterparts after completing a year-long deployment in eastern Afghanistan.

Photo by Lt. j.g. James Dietle, Kunar PRT 34 35 Army retention new$ Story by Sgt. Maj. Joseph Wolfe and Sgt. John P. Zumer, 40th PAD 2nd Lt. Cara Berangere French Army The 82nd Airborne Division Retention Team is in town. for Stop Loss Special Pay will be entered at the top of the Hometown: Amberieu en Bugey, France The Retention Sergeant Major is Sgt. Maj. Joseph Wolfe. The system By Human Resources Command (HRC) and paid by Current Assignment: Communication In- team consists of Operations NCO Sgt. 1st Class Douglas Wil- Defense Finance Accounting Service (DFAS). Career Coun- lis, 82nd DSTB Career Counselor Sgt. 1st Class Araceli Nava selors will only process those Soldiers who are entitled to the formation System Orange Signal Battalion and 30th MEDCOM Career Counselor Sgt. 1st Class Juan Pa- pay but not submitted by HRC. Title: Chief Regulator of Public Support dilla. Other Career Counselors on the installation consist of The Deployment Extension Incentive Pay (DEIP) program Job Description: She is in charge of finan- 45th Sustainment Brigade Master Sgt. Sheila Sango, 159th was also implemented on June 10, 2009. This program is cial support, human resources, and sleeping Aviation Richard Sgt. 1st Class Depontee; Staff Sgt. Latayna for those Soldiers who are scheduled to deploy on or after area. Orama and Staff Sgt. Charles Cartwright and Staff Sgt. Ricky January 1, 2010 and do not have enough time to complete the Harris for the Special Forces. deployment. The Soldiers contractual ETS must be after the Best Part of Deployment: The dining fa- On March 31, 2009, the Army implemented the 90 day win- latest arrival date (LAD) and prior to redeployment+60 days. cilities and working out. dow again for reenlistment. A soldier can no longer reenlist The program is broken into two tiers, tier one is for those Deployed Goals: Support international once they are within 90 days of their ETS. The Army gave ev- Soldiers who extend their enlistment between LAD-270 days forces. eryone a blanket exception to this policy until June 30, 2009. and LAD-180 days and tier two is for those Soldiers who ex- After June 30, 2009, there is an exception to policy process for tend their enlistment between LAD-180 and LAD-90. Tier How She Spends her Free Time: Drink- this with some very stringent criteria. one Soldiers will receive 500 dollars a month for every full ing coffee and working out. The Stop Loss Special Pay program is also in effect for month they extend their enlistment and Tier two Soldiers will Plans Upon Return: To eat French food those Soldiers who will go past their contractual ETS during receive 350 dollars a month for every full month they extend with family and friends and to go on vacation. their deployment or for those Soldiers who were denied retire- their enlistment. ment. The entitlement is 500.00 dollars per month. These Sol- Soldiers must deploy with their unit to maintain eligibility diers will not receive their money until they start serving past for the payments and payment will not start until they start their contractual ETS or their approved retirement date. For serving on their extension. Soldiers also will have until 90 approved retirements, the approved retirement order will need days prior to their contractual ETS to participate in the pro- to be verified by the servicing Career Counselor. Entitlement gram. Soldiers participating in the DIEP program will retain their reenlistment eligibility until they are within their 90 day win- dow from their extended ETS. If a Soldier reenlists while serving on a DIEP extension and decide to reenlist they will Warrior Profile continue to serve out their extension and receive the entitle- ments of it plus the entitlements of their reenlistment. Petty Officer 2nd Class Finally on June 5, 2009, the Army suspended the annual Demario Davis retention and awards program. In layman’s terms this means U.S. NAVY the Army has been so successful that they are going to be Hometown: Memphis, Tenn. over their authorized end-strength for Fiscal Year 2009. The Current Assignment: Army has not told us to stop reenlisting Soldiers, they have Joint Logistics Command told us to slow down and try and hold Soldiers to reenlist after October 1, 2009. Title: Religious Program Specialist What this means to the individual Soldier is that if you Best Part of Deployment: Cross Fit will lose a reenlistment option or a bonus by waiting then we Football. will still reenlist you. If you won’t lose anything then we will Study for career ad- continue to counsel Soldiers and lock them in for reenlistment Deployed Goals: options and ask them to wait until October. However it is still vancement and become more physically fit. the Soldiers choice to reenlist or not, no one can tell them they How He Spends his Free Time: can’t unless they are not qualified. Sports and exercise. The individual Soldier is still the most valuable commod- ity the Army has and they know that. We at the CJTF-82 reen- Plans Upon Return: To take his daugh- listment office know that also and we will continue to insure ter to Disneyland. that every Soldier receives the best counseling and the best reenlistment options that the Army has to offer. Airborne, All The Way!!! 36 37 Unit Spotlight

Reconstruction Team (PRT) as partners in supporting local government, providing advice and assistance to the Provincial Governor, the Afghan National Police and district sub-governors.

BRANCH OF SERVICE: U.S. Army UNIQUE FACTS ABOUT THE UNIT: First test platoon, the prime ancestor of th All- NAME OF UNIT: 501ST Parachute Infantry American parachute units. Received Presiden- Regiment tial Unit Citation in Normandy, France. Re- ceive Presidential Unit Citation in Bastogne, PREVIOUS DUTY LOCATION: Belgium. Received Valorous Unit Citation in Ft. Richardson, Ala. .

UNIT HISTORY: Activated at Camp Toccoa, COMMANDED BY : Capt. Stanley B. John- Ga. on Nov. 15, 1942 son and 1st Sgt. Daniel R. Moore

Would you like to have your unit in the spotlight? If so, email the 40th PAD at [email protected]. Please include your unit’s name, mission, history and any interesting facts.