:: Commander COL David G. Cotter

:: Command Sergeant Major CSM Michael D. Howard

:: Deputy Commander LTC Scott S. Naelitz

:: Public Affairs Coordinator Lakia Clarke-Brown

:: Public Affairs Specialist Dustin Senger

:: Visual Information Manager William R. McLeod

:: Photographer Ding Alcayde

:: Desert Mesh Contributors COL Doug Castle 1SG Donald Williams SPC Elayseah Woodard-Hinton Isidoro Geverola

DESERT MESH IS NOW ONLINE: http://www-qa.arcent.army.mil http://www.dvidshub.net Your feedback is important to us. See the back cover for details. CONTENTS DM58: New year in Qatar THE WIRE n Off-post sponsor boosts respite program success 3 n Stryker repair facility shifts focus (continued from below) 8 n USO Qatar recognizes greatness in uniform 10 n Qatar dining competes for repeat honors 11 n Reserve general visits Soldiers in Qatar 12 n ASG-QA Soldier and NCO of the Quarter 13 n Rest and relaxation 14 Commander’s corner n USARCENT 4-5 n Celebrity support during 2008 16 n ASG-QA 6-7 n Spiritual fitness 18 Qatar base n MWR events schedule 19 competes for Connelly n New year party 20 11 n NCO induction 22 Sports teams FITNESS attend Qatar military games n Soldiers run from Qatar to Kuwait 24 31 n Soldier Strong – Fitness Q&A 26 Edition 58 CULTURE This Army magazine is an authorized n (trip to Islamic museum; continued from page 3) publication for members of the Department Walker 28 of Defense. Contents of the Desert Mesh are not necessarily the official views of, or DOHA LIFE endorsed by, the U.S. Government or Depart- ment of the Army. The editorial content is n Qatar military sports history 30 the responsibility of the Area Support Group Qatar public affairs office. General comments n Qatar sports strengthen connections 31 should be addressed to [email protected] or call 011-974-450-2714 (DSN: 318-432- SAFETY 2572). n Seasonal concerns for driving in Doha 32 Desert Mesh layout and design by Dustin Senger. Comments should be ad- n Record-breaking safety period in Qatar 34 dressed to [email protected] or call 011-974-450-2714 (DSN 318-432-2800). Styker repair facility COVER PAGE: (Top) U.S. Central Command rest and recuperation pass program participants line up for a shifts focus photograph with Fatima Al Hamadi at the By DUSTIN SENGER Museum of Islamic Art in Doha, Qatar, Dec. 20. From left to right: U.S. Marine ASG-QA public affairs Corps Lance Cpl. Kerby Telemaque, from Coral Springs, Fla.; Army Spc. Daniel C A M P A S S AY L I YA H , repair facility at Camp As Zimmer, from Chicago, Ill.; Hamadi; Army Pfc. Anthony Arnette, from El Paso, Texas; Qatar – “We want to work Sayliyah, Qatar, Dec. 23. Army Sgt. 1st Class Otis Walker, from ourselves out of a job,” Miami, Fla.; Marine Corps Chief Warrant “When we don’t get damaged Officer Jeff Moxley, from Louisville, Ky.; said Rick Hunt, from vehicles, it means people are and Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Matthew Newark, Ohio, inside the Shimmel, from Phillipsburg, Penn. (Cover Photo-illustration by Dustin Senger) Stryker battle damage (Continued on page 8)

Desert Mesh :  : December 2008/January 2009 CONTENTS DM58: New year in Qatar Camp profile: Walker leads in off-post sponsor hours Off-post sponsor boosts personalized experience. According installation. In December 2007, he respite program success to program officials, Walker has became the Area Support Group sponsored nearly 80 trips off the Qatar noncommissioned officer in Qatar base since March. Over charge of the Camp As Sayliyah By DUSTIN SENGER recent months, he has volunteered transportation motor pool. He is ASG-QA public affairs more sponsorship hours than responsible for hundreds of non- anyone on the installation. tactical vehicle distribution plans DOHA, Qatar – U.S. Army Sgt. 1st and three vehicle lease contracts. Class Otis Walker, from Miami, Fla., “They know to call me when the Walker must respond to any accident sponsored five servicemembers, R&R desk gets really crowded with involving government vehicles. each participating in the U.S. Central people trying to go off post,” said Furthermore, he implemented a Command rest and recuperation Walker. “It depends on my work revised driver’s training program pass program, to travel off the U.S. day, but when they call, I know for installation residents. military installation in Qatar, Dec. they’re desperate.” According to 20. Walker maintains a reputation Walker, he also makes an effort “I ask people what they want to as the person to call when troops to support tenant units requiring do – what they have heard about want to leave the confines of Camp sponsorship to travel off post. – and I always attempt something As Sayliyah, to absorb the genuine cultural. I try and show a different Arabic atmosphere found in the Walker’s off-post activities do side of Qatar; which, if anything, Gulf state. not distract him from meeting gives everyone a little more to brag mission requirements on the about. If people were only able to Since 2004, over 175,000 take pictures of shopping areas, USCENTCOM war fighters have “ They know to call me they’d miss out!” participated in the respite program when the R&R desk gets in Qatar. Several group shopping crowded with people trying (Continued on page 28) and cultural tours are offered, but to go off post.” Army Sgt. 1st an off-post sponsor provides a more Class Otis Walker, Miami, Fla.

U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Otis Walker (center), from Miami, Fla.; with U.S. Central Command rest and recuperation pass program participants in Doha, Qatar, Dec. 20. (Official Army Photo/Dustin Senger)

Desert Mesh :  : December 2008/January 2009 James J. Lovelace Lieutenant General Commanding General USARCENT

he start of the New Year is While we continue to transform T a time to take stock in the ourselves and prepare for challenging previous year’s accomplishments missions, our Family Readiness and set goals for the months ahead. Groups have remained engaged. We have a great deal to be proud of The strength of USARCENT relies here in U. S. Army Central and a lot significantly on the strength of to look forward to as we move into our Families. The volunteer leaders 2009. and members of our FRGs constitute an essential component of our The dedicated professionals, that readiness. The state of USARCENT serve our command each day, have been the reason for our We conducted our inaugural Army many successes. Our Soldiers are Family Action Plan Conference executing their tasks with energy as a direct reporting unit to the and excitement… proudly wearing Department of the Army in 2008. This the USARCENT patch on their left is a powerful program… an attitude sleeve. Our noncommissioned officer within the organization… that gets to corps has truly been the backbone of the heart of taking care of people. the organization. Officers are leading from the front, promoting teamwork, I applaud all your efforts, as it has and providing the guidance in our indeed been a combined effort which pursuit of excellence. Our Civilians has made us endlessly successful. have contributed immensely to Take a moment to revel in the our success as they faithfully and accomplishments of this incredible loyally take care of Soldiers and year… we should all be very proud. Families. Our Family members and volunteer leaders have made critical Our command… a command contributions to our command’s well- full of exceptionally dedicated being and quality of life programs. professionals… will continue to work hard and maintain a quick pace in This past year brought historic 2009. We must take this opportunity changes in the character of to rededicate ourselves to our this organization. Patton’s Own commitment to do the mission; celebrated 90 years of service by protect the force. Together, we will going through a defining period. continue to make USARCENT the premier Army Service Component Our Command has moved rapidly Command in the United States towards Full-Spectrum Operations Army. capability. We reorganized our main and operational command posts, As we “ruck up” and prepare to postured the Early Entry Command move out on another year, we Post forward and adapted our battle can confidently say that the state command processes. After two of ARCENT… has never been successful FSO rotations, we are stronger. We’ve had an incredibly well on our way to JTF certification successful year and it has been in 2009. on the backs of each of you. The Soldiers, Civilians, and Family We have become expeditionary; Members of our great command capable of deploying forward “one are truly making a difference. You all ocean closer to the fight” to conduct make it a pleasure to come to work Full-Spectrum Operations. The Army each and every day. and U.S. Central Command are now realizing the untapped capabilities Thank you for all you do. that can be leveraged from this powerful headquarters. Patton’s Own!

Desert Mesh :  : December 2008/January 2009 John D. Fourhman Command Sergeant Major Command Sergeant Major USARCENT

will never leave a fallen harassment and assault prevention “I comrade.” This is the final part for the Nation, and how we will of our Warrior Ethos that each one of accomplish this through our Army us lives by everyday while we serve Values. our great Army. “We will create a climate of zero Never leaving a fallen comrade tolerance for gender-based is more than just taking care of misconduct – in attitude, word, those wounded on the battlefield; and deed, and become fully, as our it extends to never allowing harm values demand, a band of brothers to come to our fellow brothers and and sisters,” said Geren, during his Sexual assault prevention sisters in arms, in the barracks, on speech. or off duty. Stopping sexual assault begins with Sexual harassment and sexual every Soldier doing the right thing at assault are crimes that eat away at all times. Leaders must inform their the very core of our Army Values Soldiers of the importance of a good and our Warrior Ethos. Right now, sexual harassment and assault the rate of sexual assaults in the prevention program and enforce the Army is twice the rate of the other standards to prevent these heinous services. The worst part behind that acts from occurring. number is that experts estimate on average only one in five sexual U.S. Army Central has proposed assaults ever get reported. several steps in bringing awareness and prevention of sexual harassment It is the responsibility of everyone and assault to the attention of the in the command to look out for their command. fellow brothers and sisters. We must create a positive environment where These steps include, publishing everyone knows that they can count results of Article 15/Court Martial on their fellow Soldiers to do the actions, to send a message that right thing … every Soldier is his these actions will not be tolerated; brother or sister’s keeper. maximizing media potential to proliferate the field with command As Soldiers we are bound together messaging on I. A.M. STRONG; by our values, which help us implementing roving patrols for distinguish ourselves from the rest high risk areas; and creating an of society. That bond to the outside on-line communication access link eye is something some will never for individuals with questions about comprehend – such as the sacrifice sexual harassment and assault. of one Soldier giving their life for a The on-line system will also allow total stranger simply because they individuals to report incidents of share the same uniform. sexual harassment and assault.

The Secretary of the Army, the This is a very serious problem in our honorable Pete Geren, spoke at Army and something the command the Association of the United States takes very seriously. Army annual meeting and exposition last in October, discussing the For more information about the I. Army’s continued effort to eradicate A.M. STRONG campaign, go to sexual harassment and sexual the following Web site: http://www. assault. preventsexualassault.army.mil.

He spoke about how the Army Patton’s Own! will become the model for sexual

Desert Mesh :  : December 2008/January 2009 David G. Cotter Colonel Commander Area Support Group Qatar

his edition of the Desert Mesh, challenges, and tournaments T should reach you the first offered on the installation. Getting week of January. We had a great started is easy. Go to the gym celebration at Camp As Sayliyah; and ask how to join the next see pages 20 and 21 in this edition MWR Fitness Mania challenge, an of the Desert Mesh. As we embark installation-wide event that allows on our journey into 2009, we must participants to track individual all resolve to do some old things efforts to increase physical fitness. better and some new things for Fitness Mania occurs every other the first time. month – January has already A message from the started but another will begin in installation commander Area Support Group Qatar is March. Capt. Luis Martinez, ASG- committed to the safety and QA finance officer, earned the security of every resident at Camp most points over four consecutive As Sayliyah. I need everyone competitions. He redeploys this to be familiar with I need everyone month in great shape, installation policies to be familiar leaving the coveted a n d p r o c e d u r e s with installation l e a d p o s i t i o n i n concerning off-post policies and Fitness Mania open travel, dress and procedures to the possibility behavior. Adhering concerning off- of a new reigning to these policies post travel, dress champion. Resolve ensures safe and and behavior. to be in fighting shape secure enjoyment of throughout 2009. Qatar’s numerous attractions. Furthermore, applying Camp As Sayliyah is starting the and advocating these policies new year with an outstanding will help exhibit yourself as a safety record. At the end of great ambassador of the United 2008, the safety office tallied 247 States. Resolve to be a model of days without incident – the most excellence to our host nation. consecutive days ever recorded to date! I want to send a heart-felt Opportunities to improve physical “thank you” to every Soldier, Sailor, fitness are abound at Camp As Airman, Marine and civilian team Sayliyah. Aside from using the member who continues to uphold two outstanding gymnasiums, safe environments throughout the the ASG-QA Morale, Welfare installation. Congratulations! We and Recreation team provides must continue to support this strong many community activities – from momentum by never allowing challenges in resistance training ourselves to grow complacent, on to group aerobics sessions. If you and off duty. Resolve to continue have not experienced aerobics safety excellence throughout with Gina, I think it’s safe to say 2009. you have not pushed yourself yet! Patton’s Own!

You can achieve the best shape of your life by taking full advantage of all the fitness equipment,

Desert Mesh :  : December 2008/January 2009 Michael D. Howard Command Sergeant Major Command Sergeant Major Area Support Group Qatar

irst of all, I want to wish Area endeavors – that’s great news! F Support Group Qatar, and The problem is the use of certain all the tenant units of Camp As fat-loss supplements offered at the Sayliyah, a wonderful new year! AAFES Post Exchange, as well as I want to thank everyone who online. Before you try a product supported mission accomplishment to augment your weight-loss or and troop welfare during 2008. muscle-building efforts, check with Maj. Bascom Bradshaw, troop While moving into 2009, continue medical clinic director, and his to display superior Soldier team of health experts to identify discipline, workplace motivation personal contradictions. Be sure Commit to new year and team efforts. As forward- to ask about concerns with mixing resolutions in Qatar located servicemembers and specific pills, powders or drinks. civilians, we must always take Most importantly, seek help before great pride in every day efforts spending your hard-earned money. ensuring the success of Operation If it’s likely to deliver more harm Enduring Freedom and Operation than good, you don’t need it. Read Iraqi Freedom. Furthermore, we the labels. must never forget the sacrifices made by our family members back In case you missed the grand home. opening, AAFES revitalized the post movie theater on Jan. 6. The After earning the prestigious upgrade projects movies using 35 award last year, Department of millimeter film, allowing first-run the Army Connelly Award program movies to be presented on a huge, officials returned to evaluate the theater-size screen. Ask for a Camp As Sayliyah dining facility movie schedule from the ASG-QA on Dec. 10. I want to thank the Morale, Welfare and Recreation dining facility team for presenting team. another great run from Southwest Asia. Although we didn’t earn To the Noncommissioned Officers: consecutive honors, we did make always remember, you are the the top six for large garrison bearers of standards. You keep dining facilities. Outstanding job! everyone pointed in the right You are number one to each U.S. direction on the installation. I need Central Command war fighter who your help to ensure everyone walks through your doors while reviews recent policy updates. participating in the R&R program A lot has changed over the past in Qatar. They are the big winners month. Take the time to guarantee for the efforts you put forth at each compliance within your respective and every meal. unit.

As ASG-QA command sergeant Soldier First, Leader Always! major, I am seeing a horrible trend on the installation. Many of you are becoming increasingly more active in community and personal fitness

Desert Mesh :  : December 2008/January 2009 President-elect Barack Obama • Jan. 20: Inaugural Ceremony in Washington, DC THE WIRE Stryker contained a mixture of eight Stryker variants: infantry carrier (Continued from page 2) (most common), motor carrier, medical evacuation, engineer going home in one piece.” support, fire support, command, reconnaissance, and anti-tank Hunt is the General Dynamics Land guided missile vehicles. Systems site manager at the Qatar site, responsible for receiving, “The vehicles we received are the repairing and returning Stryker oldest in the Stryker fleet,” said combat vehicles protecting U.S. Hunt. “They spent most of their President-elect Barack Obama Central Command war fighters. ‘lives’ in battle – they look nasty first and President George W. Bush getting here.” Strykers were first walk the Colonnade to the Oval A recent decrease in combat- introduced to combat in 2003, but Office Monday, Nov. 10, 2008, damaged Strykers led to discussions several were constructed as early as the President and Laura about the fate of the repair facility at as 2001. According to Hunt, many Bush welcomed the president- the U.S. military installation in Qatar. vehicles missed their regularly elect and his wife, Michelle, to A new mission was needed to retain scheduled reset dates by two years, the White House. (Official White the team of experienced mechanics, due to operational requirements House Photo/Eric Draper) welders and material controllers. In and unit transitions. November, discussions between CAS in the News! U.S. government and GDLS “We intend to do a ‘reset plus’ on DVIDS provides a officials shifted the focus of the site each vehicle,” said Hunt, “taking timely connection to refurbishing, or “resetting,” worn them beyond reset requirements.” between media organizations out Strykers on the battlefield. Reset procedures consist of around the world. completing annual service tasks, Strykers urgently needing the reset installing upgrades, steam cleaning, See ASG-QA public releases at: service were removed from combat as well as removing and servicing all http://www.dvidshub.net/units/asg-qa operations and sent to Camp As hydraulic pumps, wheel drives and Sayliyah. Recent shipments of gears. At the Qatar site, Strykers Content in this Desert Mesh the light-armored combat vehicle are also repainted, inside and was picked up by the following out, to give passengers agencies (source: DVIDS 360 an increased sense of distribution report, Jan. 7): security and comfort. v Associated Press; New York, NY An onsite warehouse v Bloomberg News; of nearly 4,000 parts New York, NY fuels a fast turnover v Dining Out Magazine; tempo. Mechanics have Denver CO immediate access to v Getty Images; nuts, bolts, drive trains, New York, NY shocks, transmitions v Military.com; – if something is not San Francisco, CA available, a forward- v Museum Magazine; Gabriel Byers, a welder from Utica, N.Y., repair area in Iraq can Washington, D.C. completes repairs on a Stryker vehicle inside usually provide it within v Reuters the battle damage repair facility at Camp two days. If not, parts v Runner’s World; As Sayliyah, Qatar, Dec. 23. In November, are expedited from a Philadelphia, PA discussions between U.S. government and logistics center in the v USO; General Dynamics Land Systems officials United States. Arlington, VA shifted the focus of the site to refurbishing, “The hardest thing to do Contact Dustin Senger, ASG-QA public or “resetting,” worn out Strykers on the affairs specialist, for more information. battlefield.(Official Army Photo/Dustin Senger) is getting everyone to

Desert Mesh :  : December 2008/January 2009 THE WIRE slow down,” said Hunt, pleased by the enthusiasm in the facility. “They are used to ripping Strykers apart to repair battle damage.” Extensive damage in combat requires roughly 60 days for repairs, but a basic reset is accomplished in 10 days: one day prepping, two days welding, one day for suspension and preassembly, then the remaining time spent in assembly and road testing. A quality assurance and control supervisor inspects the entire process as it unfolds. Rick Hunt, from Newark, Ohio, talks with Malcom Monroe, from “This vehicle will grow based on Deridder, La., next to a worn out Stryker vehicle outside a battle what we have learned on the damage repair facility at Camp As Sayliyah, Qatar, Dec. 23. Hunt battlefield,” said Malcom Monroe, a is the General Dynamics Land Systems site manager at the senior wheel vehicle mechanic from Stryker repair facility in Qatar. (Official Army Photo/Dustin Senger) Deridder, La. “The reset Strykers all have common stress fractures, chemical-energy rounds, such as would put their own children in, or broken bolts and bent brackets. The rocket-propelled grenades. get into themselves.” engineers are learning which areas need to be beefed up.” Damage “I have zero disciplinary issues with On Dec. 21, the Qatar site’s first trends made slat armor a required my team,” said Hunt. “They just four refurbished Strykers were addition for each vehicle in 2003. want to work and have proven their returned to troops in Iraq. The cage armor wraps around flexibility. Most of us here either the hull to protect occupants from have family in the military or served in the military “ We intend to do a ‘reset- ourselves. Everyone plus’ on each vehicle - is motivated to send taking them beyond reset out a product they requirements.” Rick Hunt, Newark, Ohio

A refurbished Stryker vehicle outside the battle damage repair facility at Camp As Sayliyah, Qatar, Dec. 23. The vehicle recently finished a reset process after spending most of its “life” in battle. (Official Army Photo/Dustin Senger)

Desert Mesh :  : December 2008/January 2009 U.S. Army Central Standards Book • Army Values THE WIRE • Military Customs and USO Qatar Of those, most are participating in the U.S. Central Command rest Courtesies recognizes and recuperation pass program • Soldier Conduct at the Qatar base. “Since we’re • Wear and Greatness in often focused on the R&R, this Appearance of the Uniform is an outreach to our permanent uniform community.” USO Qatar plans to • Safety/Force Protection select one servicemember each By DUSTIN SENGER • Various References month. ASG-QA public affairs The 3rd Edition (May 2008) is “I enjoy my job,” said Frederickson, now available. Download here: CAMP AS SAYLIYAH, Qatar a ground communication repairman http://www-qa.arcent.army.mil – U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Mark who volunteered for assignment in Frederickson, from Linda Vista, Qatar as a liaison officer who helps Calif., earned the first United Service CAS in the news! facilitate the USCENTCOM respite Organization Qatar Greatness in program. Since its 2004 inception, Uniform award at Camp As Sayliyah, over 170,000 USCENTCOM war Find Camp As Sayliyah news Qatar, Dec. 13. The presentation fighters have participated.”My on the DVIDS Web site at: was created to recognize positive command asked for someone to http://www.dvidshub.net influences on others at the U.S. fill an individual augmentation billet @ military installation. in Qatar, so I raised my hand for it. I had recently returned home from “The Greatness in Uniform award Iraq and had never been to Qatar gives us an opportunity to support before.” our installation’s permanent party,” said Larry Cooke, USO Qatar center USO officials presented Frederickson manager. According to Cooke, each with the first Greatness in Uniform month nearly 4,000 customers seek award for his exceptional performance out the ambience and services in the and conduct while stationed in USO lounge at Camp As Sayliyah. Qatar. After the presentation, he was handed a gift certificate to the installation day spa, a 300-minute phone card and a $25 gift certificate for Operation Mail Call, an Internet- based greeting card service that sends personalized mail to loved ones. Furthermore, USO staff recorded the presentation onto a DVD to send home. Time is provided for private comments, as well as remarks by the individuals who nominated the award recipient.

Officials from the United Service Organization Southwest Asia “It feels good to be recognized stand beside U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Mark Frederickson (center), for having a positive effect on from Linda Vista, Calif., after the first Greatness in Uniform others,” said Frederickson. “If award presentation at Camp As Sayliyah, Qatar, Dec. 13. The R&R participants look for positive award recognized Frederickson for his positive influence on opportunities, they always have a others at the U.S. military installation. From left to right: John great time here. The other day I Robertson, USO Kuwait duty manager; Jonathan Matthews, took a Marine lieutenant, who just USO Southwest Asia director of operations; Frederickson; Larry graduated from Texas A&M, to the Cooke, United Service Organization Qatar center manager; and campus in Qatar. We got a tour and R. Kevin Meade, USO Southwest Asia regional vice president. everything. He said it really made (Official Army Photo/Dustin Senger) his trip worth it.”

Desert Mesh : 10 : December 2008/January 2009 THE WIRE Qatar dining gains experience and learns the “There is such a wide variety here,” tricks of the trade,” said James said Williams, while observing lunch competes for D. Riddle, International Food time service in the Qatar facility. Service Executives Association “They cater to just about anything repeat honors committee chairman. The IFSEA is a you’re after. People walk up and professional organization dedicated say ‘this is the best dining facility’ or By DUSTIN SENGER to raising food service industry ‘we need more of this’ – I have not ASG-QA public affairs standards. Riddle was joined by heard one negative comment.” two Army evaluators: Chief Warrant CAMP AS SAYLIYAH, Qatar – A Officer Jack C. Van Zanten and Sgt. “Camp As Sayliyah has a great Department of the Army Philip Maj. L’Tanya Williams, from Fort chance at earning the Connelly A. Connelly Award committee Bliss, Texas. They visited finalists again,” said Chief Warrant Officer evaluated the Area Support Group in Hawaii, Germany, Korea, South Eunice Buffington, from Memphis, Qatar food service operations Carolina, Maryland and Washington Tenn. In September, she assumed at Camp As Sayliyah, Qatar, – Qatar is the committee’s seventh duties as the installation food service Dec. 10. The command earned and final stop. officer. According to Buffington, the the Connelly Award in 2007, for dining facility is under continuous providing the best large garrison According to the evaluators, scrutiny to find ways to improve. food operation in the Army. It was areas of interests for an award- the first evaluation, and subsequent winning program include: command “The staff here works hard to win, for dining facilities in Southwest support; administration; headcount make each diner feel they have Asia. Although two-year winning procedures; receipt and storage; personalized service,” said streaks are uncommon, they intend sanitation and food handling; training Buffington, a three-time veteran to repeat the honors. and management; appearance; of Connelly competitions. “To me, serving; equipment; and food that’s what a successful food “The Connelly competition gets preparation. service operation is all about.” stiffer each year – everyone Many customers are participating in the U.S. Central Command rest and recuperation pass program. Since 2004, ASG-QA has recharged over 170,000 USCENTCOM war fighters. According to Buffington, the dining facility staff provides “a restaurant feel, with a taste of home.”

“The food looks really good,” said Spc. Justin Clark, from Bremerton, Wa. Clark left Iraq to participate in the R&R program in Qatar, along with Marine Corps Cpl. Darius Brown, from Ashburn, Ga. “This food looks much better than what James D. Riddle, International Food Service Executives we get in Iraq!” said Brown. Association committee chairman, and U.S. Army Sgt. Maj. L’Tanya Williams, food services evaluator, inspect fresh produce “I have been eating here for the last at Camp As Sayliyah, Qatar, Dec. 10. In 2007, Area Support four years,” said Robert Hamilton, Group Qatar was recognized for providing the best large a contractor from Tampa, Fla. garrison food operation in the Army. It was the first evaluation, “During that time, I have seen a and subsequent win, for dining facilities in Southwest Asia. lot of transformations. They keep Although two-year winning streaks are uncommon, they intend getting better each year!” to repeat the honors. (Official Army Photo/Dustin Senger)

Desert Mesh : 11 : December 2008/January 2009 Optical Fabrication Laboratory The optical fabrication lab provides: glasses and inserts; repairs and adjustments; and THE WIRE replacement parts. Reserve general installations in Southwest Asia, an effort to demonstrate support for • Monday thru Thursday: visits Soldiers in deployed Soldiers during a holiday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. season away from home. • Friday: Qatar Appointments only Capt. Christopher Spencer, a • Saturday: By DUSTIN SENGER reservist from New Braunfels, Texas, Closed ASG-QA public affairs provided a detailed overview of the • Sunday: U.S. Central Command rest and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. CAMP AS SAYLIYAH, Qatar – U.S. recuperation pass program at Camp Army Lt. Gen. Jack C. Stultz, Army As Sayliyah. In June 2008, Spencer Contact SPC Armond Alphabet, 427th Reserve commanding general, deployed with the 350th Human MLC optical lab specialist, for more and Command Sgt. Resources Company, information. Maj. Leon Caffie, Army “ We recently a reserve unit from Troop Medical Clinic Reserve command received his Grand Prairie, Texas, holiday message, Sick call supports acute injuries sergeant major, visited to manage the respite so it was an honor or illness requiring treatment or a various reserve units program in Qatar. Since at Camp As Sayliyah, to see him too.” its 2004 inception, over disposition for duty status – E-6 Army Staff Sgt. Qatar, Nov. 25. Stultz 170,000 war fighters and below must present DD form Diana Carter, 689, signed by their first-line a n d C a f f i e w e r e Jonesboro, Ark. were recharged at the supervisor. touring U.S. military Qatar base. • Saturday thru Thursday: 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Sgt. Bill Belanger, a reservist from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Kennesan, Ga., met the leadership • Friday: duo at a work center deep inside a No sick call sign-in (EMS medical warehouse. He was busy coverage only) repairing an infusion pump, equipment needed to deliver intravenous medication for USCENTCOM troops Routine appointments receiving emergency medical care are for evaluation or re- in contingency areas. Belanger evaluation of chronic medical explained how the skills developed conditions, medication refills during six years in the Army reserve and post-deployment health resulted in greater opportunities assessments. in civilian life. Back home, he is a • Saturday thru Wednesday: biomedical technician at St. Joseph’s 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Hospital. Belanger deployed to Qatar 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. last summer with the 427th Medical Logistics Battalion, a reserve unit Contact Maj. Bascom Bradshaw, TMC director, for more information. from Fort Gillem, Ga.

U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Jack C. Stultz, “We recently received his holiday Army Reserve commanding message, so it was an honor to general, meets mobilized see him too,” said Staff Sgt. Diana reservists at Camp As Sayliyah, Carter, a reservist from Jonesboro, Qatar, Nov. 25. Stultz joined Ark, after explaining the process of reservists for a lunch buffet, which medical supply stock control at the was immediately followed by a Qatar base. Carter is part of the discussion regarding training, 427th MEDLOG team responsible leader development, mobilization, for maintaining a substantial employer support, family inventory of medical materials readiness and quality of life. at the prepositioning depot. The (Official Army Photo/Dustin Senger) supplies are eventually distributed

Desert Mesh : 12 : December 2008/January 2009 THE WIRE throughout the USCENTCOM area of responsibility. “I was excited – I had never met a three-star general before!”

Prior to departing Camp As Sayliyah, the Army leadership joined reservists for a lunch buffet, which was immediately followed by a discussion regarding training, leader development, mobilization, employer support, family readiness and quality of life. Caffie, well known for his dynamic enthusiasm, closed the dialogue with a motivational speech highlighting the importantance of military service and leadership U.S. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Leon Caffie (right), Army Reserve responsibility. command sergeant major, meets mobilized reservists at Camp As Sayliyah, Qatar, Nov. 25. (Official Army Photo/Dustin Senger) :: ASG-QA Soldier and NCO of the Quarter

U.S. Army Sgt. Bernina Blackwater, Area Support Group Qatar chaplain assistant, Col. David G. Cotter, ASG-QA commander, Command Sgt. Maj. Michael D. Howard, ASG-QA command sergeant major, Pfc. Crystal Miller, human resources specialist, at Camp As Sayliyah, Qatar, Dec. 31. Blackwater, from Shiprock, N.M., and Miller, from Auburn, N.Y., were recognized as the ASG-QA Noncommissioned Officer of the Quarter and Soldier of the Quarter, respectively. (Official Army Photo/Dustin Senger)

Desert Mesh : 13 : December 2008/January 2009 Rest and Recuperation Pass Program Donations

Help R2P2 THE WIRE participants going on one of the several enjoy the Rest and daily trips offered by the R2P2. program’s relaxation opportunities Service members have the option by donating By Spc. ELAYSEAH of signing up for trips that offer your new or an opportunity to get off post WOODARD-HINTON and experience the culture and used items. 20th Public Affairs Detachment scenery that the country has to offer. • Call the R&R front desk CAMP AS SAYLIYAH, Qatar - for more information. Some of the activities include a trip to Located within the Arabian Al-Saflia Island, where participants Peninsula, on the coast of the Contact Capt. Christopher A. Spencer, can enjoy a variety of water sports ASG-QA rest and recuperation pass Persian Gulf, is a little known retreat such as jet and water skiing. program officer, for more information. called Qatar, where servicemembers

can take a few days to rest and relax “The most popular trip is the water Camp Policies while deployed to the Middle East. sports because [servicemembers]

get to ride on the jet skis and swim Qatar is home to Camp As Policies are posted on the in the Persian Gulf,” said Spc. Sayliyah, where troops stay ASG-QA Intranet Web site: Teddy Thelwell, R2P2 assistant, while visiting a country with http://www.arcentqa.mil* Area Support Group Qatar. beaches, shopping, dining, golf *ASG-QA domain access required. and year-round tropical weather. @ Those who enjoy activities on both

Equality Observance water and land can take advantage Even with all the country has to offer, Participate in base celebrations of the Inland Sea Picnic, where the minor inconveniences that come of our country’s heritage and a caravan of vehicles chauffeur with travel time and the transportation historic periods. service members to a camp located process to get there keeps many next to the beach. Once they arrive, servicemembers from going. they can eat, play sports or rest in one Martin Luther King Jr. of the furnished Arabian style tents. Birthday celebration “There’s a couple of Soldiers in

• Jan. 19: Obervance at 11 my unit who have chosen to take “Once you get to the picnic area a.m. in community activity their four day pass [and stay on the it’s awesome,” said Toldoya. center. forward operating base],” said U.S. “There’s volleyball, swimming Army Sgt. Victor Toldoya, who is • Jan 19: Observance at 7 and hookah pipes. It was a currently deployed to Iraq. “I’ve had p.m. in R&R briefing room. good four or five hours spent.” some bad transportation issues;

but once I got [to Qatar], everything Black History Month Other trips offered by R2P2 I’ve done in the last two days • Feb. 4: Opening Ceremony include, a tour of the capital city really makes up for the two days at noon in large dining facility. of Doha, which offers a chance inconvenience it took to get here.” to learn more about the culture, • Feb. 18: Observance at noon shopping, and a trip to the Doha in community activity center. Although getting to Qatar may PGA style golf course or a cruise. • Feb. 18: Finale at 7 p.m. in be a hassle for some, the military

Top-Off Club. offers a rest and recuperation pass Many of the trips offer an entire program, in conjunction with the Contact Sgt. 1st Class Tammy Theis, day of activities, but for those United Service Organizations and ASG-QA equal opportunity advisor, for that do not want to dedicate an Morale, Welfare and Recreation, more information. entire day off post, there are many to help make Qatar worth the trip. options on Camp As Sayliyah.

According to Toldoya, one “I was really stressed out when I came of the things he enjoyed most over here and now I am relaxed,” said during his first two days was U.S. Marine Cpl. Dalton Vaughn, who is currently deployed to Iraq.

Desert Mesh : 14 : December 2008/January 2009 USO Qatar The USO Qatar offers servicemembers at Camp As Sayliyah movies, games and THE WIRE reading corners in the warm According to Vaughn, his first two pillow room, where many people ambiance of a traditional Arabic days in Qatar were spent bowling, go to relax, sleep or watch a movie. setting. eating at Chili’s, watching movies and communicating with family. “We have Soldiers who come in USO is and spend four days in the USO, a seeking The bowling alley and many other lot of times sleeping,” said Pamela volunteers activities are all centrally located in Russell, duty manager, USO. “There • Everyone is eligible to the building that houses the “Top Off” are a lot of great opportunities for volunteer at the installation area, which offers food and beer in Soldiers to get off post and relax and USO. a Bourbon Street-atmosphere. Here do things, but a lot of what we are • Commit to assisting visiting you can also find a large open area offering is just a little bit of home.” war fighters once per week – with pool tables, darts and a large flexible schedules are available. stage where MWR hosts karaoke The R&R, MWR and USO staff nights and live performances are focused on giving back to Contact Larry Cooke, USO Qatar by popular entertainers. servicemembers by working to make director, for more information. their R&R a pleasant experience. The R&R building is also the home of a USO, which aims to “This is very rewarding,” said provide a calm environment. LaVerne C. Haynes, MWR director.

Everyone must take off their shoes According to Haynes, many before entering the dimly-lit, carpeted servicemembers express that they USO lounge where servicemembers are thankful for what they do for can play board games, X-Box 360 them, yet she responds with, “I am and Playstation 3; troops can also thankful for what you do for us.” visit the comfortably furnished

CAS-TV The Camp As Sayliyah command access channel was upgraded to it’s third revision. Turn your on-post television to channel 36 (may vary).

U.S. Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Javont Whitt, from Detroit, Mich., looks around a shopping area in Doha, Qatar, Oct. 11. Whitt was enjoying a four-day pass from military commitments in Kuwait, by participating in the U.S. Central Command rest and recuperation pass program. With help from a sponsor familiar with Qatar Television culture, he joined two other respite program participants to visit Contact Lakia Clarke-Brown, ASG-QA the Gulf state’s oldest and most famous shopping establishments. public affairs coordinator, for more (Official Army Photo/Dustin Senger) information.

Desert Mesh : 15 : December 2008/January 2009 New AAFES movie theater Visit the new AAFES movie theater adjacent to the large dining THE WIRE facility. All movies shown using :: Celebrity support during 2008 t professional U.S. Army Pfc. Evangelina 35mm reels! Martinez, from Dallas, Texas, is surrounded by Jimmy “Mouth of the South” Heart, Diamond Dallas Showtimes Page and Nikolai Volkoff at Camp • See page 19 As Sayliyah in Qatar, Jan. 21. The legends of wrestling began their Contact Teresa Barrett, AAFES service business manager, for more information. tour of U.S. military installations in Southwest Asia to show their Photography Support support for deployed troops. (Official Army Photos/Dustin Senger) Photos are available on the ASG-QA Intranet Web site: http://www.arcentqa.mil* *ASG-QA@ domain access required. Eagle Cash Eagle Cash eliminates the need to carry paper pogs, loose change or pay costly ATM fees.

Eagle Cash kiosks: • Finance • Large dining facility • Large gym p U.S. Secretary of Energy Samuel W. Bodman greets • Post exchange servicemembers at Camp As Sayliyah, Qatar, Jan. 22. The • R2P2 front desk secretary arrived with his wife and daughter. u Minnesota Vikings cheerleaders greet U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Jeremy Myers, from Coon Rapids, Minn., at Camp As Sayliyah, May 14. The football cheerleaders were visiting troops at U.S. military installations throughout Southwest Asia. t U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. ASG-QA Finance Bonifacio Tee, from New Castle, Del., poses for a photograph • Monday thru Saturday: with Kelly Hu at Camp As 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sayliyah, Qatar, March 11. The Closed from noon to 1 p.m. actress joined Maria Menounos • Sunday: and David Proval to greet 8:30 a.m. to noon troops serving in Southwest Asia during an Ambassadors Contact Capt. Luis Martinez, ASG-QA of Hollywood Tour. “I work finance officer, for more information. night shift and woke up just for this opportunity to see them,” said Tee. “I saw Kelly in ‘The Scorpion King.’ It’s great seeing her in person. I am glad they are able to do this here.”

Desert Mesh : 16 : December 2008/January 2009 THE WIRE :: Celebrity support during 2008

p Justin Guarini, a former “American Idol” participant, signs autographs for U.S. Army p U.S. Army Master Sgt. Kieth Caraman, from Maj. Shelia Phillips-Hicks, from St. Robert, Tampa, Fla., takes a photograph with Yau-man Mo., at Camp As Sayliyah, Qatar, Aug 6. He Chan, Eliza Orlins and Cirie Fields at Camp was beginning a support tour of U.S. military As Sayliyah, May 20. Chan, Orlins and Fields installations in Southwest Asia; also on tour: Gina are former participants in the popular reality- Glocksen, Brandon Rogers and Nadia Turner. television series “Survivor.” t U.S. Army Capt. Randy Sherman, from Marshall, Mo., meets Charlie Weis, University of Notre Dame head coach, at Camp As Sayliyah, May 22. Weis and four other National Collegiate Athletic Association football coaches were touring U.S. military installations in the Middle East, to include: Jack Siedlecki, Yale University; Mark Richt, University of Georgia; Randy Shannon, University of Miami; and Tommy Tuberville, Auburn University.

u Dan “the Beast” Severn, Ultimate Fighting Championship hall of famer, Travis Lutter, former UFC fighter, U.S. Army 1st Sgt. Robert Myers, from Lawton, Okla., and Mark Coleman, UFC hall of famer, pose for a photograph at Camp As Sayliyah, Qatar, Aug. 20. The UFC celebrities were touring U.S. military installations in the Middle East to show support for war fighters.

p Nate Holland, a professional skier and snowboarder, U.S. Army Lt. Col. John Kizler, from Louisville, Ky., and Danny Kass, two-time Olympic silver medal champion and seven-time Winter X Games medalist, meet at Camp As p U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Sergio Jimenez, Sayliyah, Qatar, June 23. Holland, Kass and Grete Eliassen from Fresno, Calif., takes a photograph with were visiting various U.S. military installations in the Middle members of the St. Louis Rams Cheerleaders East during an X Games tour. at Camp As Sayliyah, Qatar, June 18.

Desert Mesh : 17 : December 2008/January 2009 Chaplain Services Attend the installation ministry team’s spiritual support services:

Spiritual Fitness THE WIRE Luncheon Spiritual fitness every store in town, dodging horses • Jan. 28: Monthly prayer and pedestrians filling the streets. luncheon at noon in the large My five-minute fuel stop turned dining facility. God’s Grizzlies into a 40-minute, white-knuckled • Feb. 25: Monthly prayer ‘adventure.’ luncheon at noon in the large By Col. DOUG CASTLE Installation ministry team Muttering thoughts chaplains have dining facility. no business thinking, I was finally back on the road. Glancing to the Contact Col. Doug Castle, ASG-QA I had been driving for 13 hours, chaplain, for more information at DSN and looking seriously for a motel. right, I saw something and jammed 432-2198. If I didn’t find one soon I was going on the brakes. Ambling along the to have to pull off on a side road banks of the Yellowstone, its long Family Readiness and sleep. I was on I-90, heading hair gently waving in the wind was east from Fort Lewis. I’d spent the a Grizzly! Group Web site summer there as a chaplain for • USARCENT magazines ROTC Advanced Camp, and I was I had always wanted to see a Grizzly • ASG-QA news and photos heading for my home in Missouri. in the wild, but despite many years • Contact information in the woods and mountains, I had • Important links I was in a particular bad mood never come across one. Watching because I’d made the mistake of the bear, no more than fifty yards http://www-qa.arcent.army.mil/qa_frg stopping in a small Montana town from me playfully stroll out of sight, for gas. It was the annual parade, I got back in my truck with a grin and Contact Capt. Thomas Crane, ASG-QA and traffic returning to the interstate drove away. HHC commander, for more information. was diverted into endless loops past But immediately I stopped. God was gently speaking to my heart, and He had my full attention. I had always wanted to see a Grizzly, but would have missed this one if not for the unexpected Livingston ‘tour.’ What I had experienced as an inconvenience and an interruption in my agenda was in actuality an event positioning me for something good!

God was reminding me, in a way, I will never forget that He views my life from a much higher and clearer perspective. I get lost in the smoke of battle immediately around me, but He sees the pathway He has picked out for me to travel. Important lessons and valuable benefits are hidden in even the every-day irritations I encounter. I really CAN trust God’s wisdom!

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and don’t depend solely on your own understanding of things. In every part of your life keep your attention focused on God, and He will put you Illustration by Dustin Senger. Submit ideas for future CAS-toons to on the path He has laid out for you.” [email protected] Proverbs 3:6

Desert Mesh : 18 : December 2008/January 2009 THE WIRE MWR events schedule

w Martin Luther King 5K Fun Run Jan. 19 • 6 a.m. • CAC w Bicycle Relay Race Jan. 25 • 1 p.m. • Large Gym w NFL Super Bowl Sunday Tour Jan. 29-30 • TBD • Large DFAC w Professional Rodeo Tour TBD • TBD w Billy Blanks Tour TBD • TBD w WWE Tour TBD • TBD Contact LaVerne Haynes, ASG-QA MWR director, or Tony Randall, MWR program manager, for more information. AAFES Movie Theater Visit the new AAFES movie theater adjacent to the large dining facility. All movies shown using professional 35 millimeter film reels! Quarantine Eagle Eye Jan. 7 • 7:30 p.m. Jan. 10 • 5 p.m.

Pride and Glory The Day the Earth Stood Still Jan. 8 • 7:30 p.m. Jan. 10 • 7:30 p.m.

The Express Nothing Like the Holidays Jan. 9 • 5 p.m. Jan. 11 • 5 p.m.

The Day the Earth Stood Still Max Payne Jan. 9 • 7:30 p.m. Jan. 11 • 7:30 p.m. The Express Jan. 12 • 7:30 p.m.

Eagle Eye Jan. 13 • 7:30 p.m.

Contact Teresa Barrett, AAFES service business manager, for more information.

Desert Mesh : 19 : December 2008/January 2009 NEWDec. 31, 2008 – Official Army YEARPhotos/Ding Alcayde PARTY

Desert Mesh : 20 : December 2008/January 2009 NEW YEAR PARTY

Desert Mesh : 21 : December2 2008/January00 2009 9 NCODec. 18, 2008 – Official Army INDUCTION Photos/Ding Alcayde Sgt. Nimchie Alce Sgt. Brian Given Jr. Sgt. Jeleen Pedro Sgt. Byron Beltau Sgt. Amaris Henry Sgt. Naomi Richardson Sgt. Jeremy Crutchfield Sgt. Devon Joseph Sgt. Tisha Slade Sgt. Yvonne Davis Sgt. Braxton Kehr Sgt. Brian Thompson Sgt. Demetrice Elmore Sgt. Russ King Sgt. Carlos Valerioalgarra Sgt. Tabitha Gilchrease Sgt. Mia Lampley

Desert Mesh : 22 : December 2008/January 2009 Desert Mesh : 23 : December 2008/January 2009 CAS Bowling Alley Come enjoy the Top-Off Club’s eight-lane FITNESS bowling alley. Soldiers run Free Bowling • Fridays, from noon to 4 p.m. from Qatar to Free Tuesdays Kuwait • Jan. 6: Open bowling from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. By DUSTIN SENGER • Jan. 13: Moonlight bowling ASG-QA public affairs from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. • Jan. 20: Open bowling from CAMP AS SAYLIYAH, Qatar - U.S. 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Army 1st Sgt. Donald Williams, • Jan. 27: Moonlight bowling from Houston, Texas, completed from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. a two-month endurance challenge at Camp As Sayliyah, Qatar, Contact Tony Randall, ASG-QA MWR Dec. 13. The 357-mile fitness program manager, for more information. event simulated running from Qatar to Kuwait, by adding up distances completed on indoor treadmills, from Nov. 1 to Dec. “The hardest part is staying 31. Williams, one of almost 70 to motivated,” said U.S. take on the challenge, was first to Army 2nd Lt. John Santos, finish the massive test of stamina. from Carson, Calif., while participating in a two-month “Finally,” said Williams after endurance challenge at Camp completing the race. “I never As Sayliyah, Qatar, Dec. thought I would get there. I was only 13. “Sometimes I feel like a hoping for 250 miles. But after going hamster running in circles; 250, what’s another 100 miles?” going nowhere while watching Participants in the competition were re-runs of football games separated into four age brackets: and 1980’s music videos on the televisions. (Official Army 20-29, 30-39, 40-49 and 50 and Photo/Dustin Senger) over. Williams, 44, won the overall. get back up and keep going.” “I usually ran five to seven miles, twice a day,” said Williams. “A “The hardest part is staying younger person could do more but motivated,” said 2nd Lt. John Santos, anyone in their 40’s should stay from Carson, Calif. “Sometimes I under 10 miles in any one session. feel like a hamster running in circles; Otherwise you’re flirting with danger.” going nowhere while watching re- runs of football games and 1980’s “The race forces you to adhere to music videos on the televisions. proper nutrition,” said Williams. “I I’d rather run under the desert lost 18 pounds before I started to sun than on these machines.” get some weight back. I started Santos is trailing 130 miles behind eating four times per day to keep Williams in second place for all from seeing stars. People using this age groups. He intends pass the challenge to lose weight probably 357-mile finish line, by Dec. 31. won’t make it to Kuwait, by Dec. 31. If you don’t eat right, you’ll feel “I am back in the rhythm of running it. Also, the race builds confidence. about 10 miles each day,” said Like long road marches, sometimes Santos. “My highest so far was you have to rest, but you always 25 miles; although, I have never

Desert Mesh : 24 : December 2008/January 2009 FITNESS taken the ‘run’ part literally. I “I am going to start training for did that in two-and-half hours. I the powerlifting competition in found out these treadmills restart March,” said Williams. “I want to themselves after 60 minutes,” demonstrate a 500-pound bench he said, smirking at the thought. press.” Most people would shun the thought, but not Williams. “It’s hard to run this He has accomplished much without anything “ It’s hard to run the impressive lift to reach for - so this this much without several times in the gives us a goal at least. anything to reach p a s t . I n O c t o b e r It is improving my run for – so this gives 2007, he did it while time outside by allowing us a goal at weighing 205 pounds. me to focus on my form, least.” Army 2nd since I don’t have to Lt. John Santos, “It’s important to break Carson, Calif. worry about tripping things up to stay in over rocks or anything.” shape between annual physical training tests,” said A similar event is scheduled Williams. “If I can do all this at 44 soon, using a combination of years old, then anyone younger treadmill and outdoor running, than me can do it too.” but the winner of the race to Kuwait challenge already has his attention set on something else. U.S. Army 1st Sgt. Donald Williams, from Houston, Texas, completes a two-month endurance challenge at Camp As

Sayliyah, Qatar, Dec. 13. The 357-mile fitness event simulated running from Qatar to Kuwait, by adding up distances completed on indoor treadmills from Nov. 1 to Dec. 31. Williams, one of almost 70 to take on the challenge, was first to finish the massive test of stamina. “Finally,” said Williams after completing the race. “I never thought I would get there. I was only hoping for 250 miles. But after going 250, what’s another 100 miles?” (Official Army Photo/Dustin Senger)

Desert Mesh : 25 : December 2008/January 2009 FITNESS MANIA! U.S. Army Capt. Luis Martinez, Area Support Group Qatar finance officer, FITNESS scored 2,707 points to win the November fitness challenge at athletes due to inadequate and unnatural resistance, whereas free Camp As Sayliyah - scoring four weights allow plenty of long-term consecutive wins! According progression. to MWR officials, Martinez earns his points as a regular Machines may look appealing, participant in MWR tournaments particularly to new gym patrons, but and fitness challenges. they don’t offer the serious lifter a Sign up for January’s Fitness Mania Fitness Q&A lot of options. One benefit they do at the large gym’s front desk. provide the dedicated: they remove By 1st Sgt. DONALD WILLIAMS less serious individuals away from ASG-QA HHC weights the serious lifter needs.

Q. Why use free weights when Q. What’s a good way to machines are much easier? get back in shape after being inactive? A. There are several reasons people choose free weights over A. A good way to get back into machines. Machines may appear shape after being inactive is to take easier but they have drawbacks. your time. Remember, Rome was not built in a day. For gym owners, machines consume a lot of floor space and Start off by allowing your joints to increase equipment costs. Since adapt to an increase in activity levels. they isolate specific muscle groups, Work with lighter resistance until the several machines are required strain on your joints becomes more to work the entire body. On the comfortable. Previously trained other hand, free weights can train muscles may be ready to get multiple muscle groups. Adjustable back to work but prematurely benches or squat racks can be used overloading joints and connective for countless exercises other than tissue can result in injury, and bench presses or squats; such as even more inactivity. You may feel curls, extensions, military presses, “beginner’s pain,” but please don’t deadlifts – the list is extensive. let this stop you – keep training and the discomfort will subside Free weights are highly portable too! soon enough. Stretching can help If the gym is crowded, you can move you complete workouts with less barbells, dumbbells and benches soreness. to areas with less congestion. Machines are much more difficult When you’re ready, set goals to move, considering their weight, based on previous fitness levels. If complexity and dimensions. To your last training goal was to push make matters worse, popular or pull a specific load, try to do it devices tend to attract a crowd of again! Progress will be faster the people waiting for a turn. second time around since muscles have memory. In other words, with Free weights will always provide proper rest and nutrition, strength greater functional strength gains levels can quickly return to handling than machines, as long as loads previously rehearsed. It proper form is practiced while won’t happen over night, but be applying a progressive overload. ready to see dramatic increases Machines limit advanced strength up front. Just remember: when you observe the rebound, reward

Desert Mesh : 26 : December 2008/January 2009 FITNESS yourself by increasing training loads Once you return to a previously EDITOR’S NOTE: Williams has accordingly. Your workouts must held fitness level, take the steps to over 34 years of powerlifting continuously provide a sufficient reach a higher echelon. Progress experience. While stationed at level of intensity to keep improving helps maintain interest in an active Fort Polk, La., he set a state – when the load is no longer heavy, lifestyle. It can be defined by record by bench pressing 350 the training stimulus is no longer increases in strength or changes pounds, while weighing only sufficient. If 100 pounds suddenly in body composition. Hopefully, your 170 pounds. He retired from seems light, graduate to 105 pounds progress will encourage others to competitions, but continues to or more. focus on becoming more fit too! coach individuals interested in ways to increase their strength. :: SOCCENT takes the cup

p Special Operations Command Central earns the fall season’s commanders cup at Camp As Sayliyah, p Basketball between Medical Logistics Nov. 8. To earn the cup, they competed in 14 events, and Area Support Group Qatar, Nov. 7. played over two days. They obtained the most points at the installation’s premier fitness challenge. TOP 5 SOCCENT (36) ASG-QA (35) 2-43 ADA (32) 25th SIG (24) JPOTF (23)

p Flag football between 25th p Signal Battalion and 2-43 Air Combined Media Processing Center runs during a morning Defense Artilery, Nov. 7 one-mile relay race, Nov. 8. (Official Army Photos/Ding Alcayde)

Desert Mesh : 27 : December 2008/January 2009 Rest and Recuperation Pass Program Sponsorship Sponsor an R2P2 participant to give them an opportunity to see CULTURE the local culture and atmosphere Walker Especially the way the dome on while enjoying a break from top looks like it’s spinning as the operations. (Continued from page 3) sun hits the different shapes during the day.” • Call the R&R Desk for Walker’s trip started with the more information Qatar Museum of Islamic Art. The “The Book of Secrets shows the museum first opened its doors foundations of everything we have Contact Capt. Christopher A. Spencer, to visitors Dec. 1. The buildings in our mechanical world today,” ASG-QA rest and recuperation pass said Marine Corps Chief Warrant program officer, for more information. strong elegant design is nestled within the Gulf coastline; creating Officer Jeff Moxley, from Louisville, Ky., on pass from Iraq. “It proves Desert Mesh online! a vivid contrast of colors, from the warm desert sand to the they had a real thought process for cool ocean waters. The museum how to do things.” The 11th century The Desert Mesh is holds fragments of Islamic history, manuscript describes more than available on the Internet: such as manuscripts, textiles and 30 machines and devices – many http://www.arcent.army.mil ceramics. Many exhibits originate not seen in Europe until after the from Turkey, Egypt, Iraq, Iran and 13th century. “It has diagrams of @ battering rams, and even how India. to keep water cool. The ancient “The Qatar emir gave the architect artifacts found in the United States unlimited funding to build this often date way back to cavemen museum,” said Army Pfc. Anthony times. The things out here are more Arnette, from El Paso, Texas, relevant to our era, with religious after listening to an explanation of significance.” the construction of the museum. Arnette was on pass from Kuwait, After departing the museum, the participating in the USCENTCOM group elected to go shopping in respite program in Qatar. “It’s one of Qatar’s most popular malls amazing how everything is put and then journey through the gold together – it’s very creative! shops. The evening ended with a dimly lit dinner in a Moroccan restaurant.

“I didn’t know what to expect… but camel meat is delicious!” said Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Matthew Shimmel, from Phillipsburg, Penn., on pass from Iraq. Shimmel decided to try the Arabic delicacy while the possibility presented itself. “I don’t know when I’ll have an opportunity to have it again. The meat’s texture is like prime rib but I can’t compare the taste to anything – I liked it!”

“This is the first time I have really enjoyed myself since I have been in the military,” said Marine Corps Army Pfc. Anthony Arnette, from El Paso, Texas, glances over Lance Cpl. Kerby Telemaque, from exhibits at the Museum of Islamic Art in Doha, Qatar, Dec. 20. The Coral Springs, Fla., while on pass museum holds fragments of Islamic history, such as manuscripts, from Iraq. “Seeing and getting textiles and ceramics. Many exhibits originate from Turkey, Egypt, involved in the culture helped me Iraq, Iran and India. (Official Army Photo/Dustin Senger) understand Islamic society. I never

Desert Mesh : 28 : December 2008/January 2009 Qatar Museum of Islamic Art Masterpieces from three continents and 14 centuries CULTURE celebrate the dazzling diversity of Islamic Art. “Beyond Boundaries: Islamic Art Across Cultures,” the first exhibition, runs through Feb. 22. Free admission to museum and first exhibition. Guides are available for large groups.

• The Museum of Islamic Art’s opening hours are Saturday, Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Friday from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Call the Qatar Museum of Islamic Art U.S. Army Spc. Daniel Zimmer, from Chicago, Ill., and Marine at 422-4444, for more information, or visit the Web site: http://www.mia.org. Corps Lance Cpl. Matthew Shimmel, from Phillipsburg, Penn., qa/english depart the Museum of Islamic Art in Doha, Qatar, Dec. 20. The museum first opened its doors to visitors on Dec. 1. The buildings strong elegant design is nestled within the Gulf coastline; creating a vivid contrast of colors, from the warm desert sand to the cool ocean waters. (Official Army Photos/Dustin Senger)

Fatima Al Hamadi reveals an interactive exhibit explaining the Book of Secrets at the Museum of Islamic Art listen to in Doha, Qatar, Dec. 20. The museum first opened its doors to visitors in on Dec. 1. U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Otis Walker (right), from Miami, Fla., takes photographs of the demonstration. expected all the similarities and I stationed in Qatar.” feel they know our culture. This is a recharge that gives us experiences “I tell everyone: ‘if you’re having to talk about for a lifetime.” a bad day, go sponsor the R&R,’” said Walker. “After you hear stories “I was here trying to travel off about Iraq and Afghanistan, you post in 2006,” said Walker. “The realize there isn’t much to complain sponsored just dropped us off and about here. For me, it’s about them. left. My friend and I said, ‘if we I take pictures of all the groups ever get stationed here, we’ll take I sponsor and meet new friends the time to show people things.’ A every day.” little more than a year later, I was

Desert Mesh : 29 : December 2008/January 2009 Qatar Armed Forces Competitions The annual Qatar armed forces competitions are underway. Take part of an outreach DOHA LIFE effort to build friendly found: sports competitions. relationships between Qatar military the U.S. and Qatari sports history U.S. Army officials were excited military. by the positive relationships that succeeded the events in 2003. On Armed Forces By DUSTIN SENGER May 11, 2004, they sent a letter to the Marksmanship ASG-QA public affairs host nation military headquarters to Competitions request opportunities for continued • Jan. 11-28 Qatar Emir Hamad bin Khalifa Al semi-annual sports competitions. Commander-in-Chief Shooting Thani has actively supported athletes Qatar military officials responded on Competitions (officers) and major sports competitions since July 17, 2004. U.S. servicemembers he succeeded his father’s rule of the • Jan. 20-22 were officially invited to join them in Gulf country in 1995. International Chief of Staff Marksmanship the nation’s annual military sports athletic events helped build world- Competitions competitions – as the only non- wide awareness for the rapidly Qatari participants. The military • Feb. 1-25 developing and prosperous Gulf sports competitions included: Military Run emirate. The 15th Asian Games marksmanship, basketball, soccer, • March Doha in December 2006 presented volleyball, table tennis, cross-country Qatar as the first venue for a major Contact Capt. Thomas Crane, ASG-QA and a challenging military run. HHC commander, or Raed Barghouti, Olympiad event in Arabia. ASG-QA civil affairs specialist, for more Topping the score cards, U.S. information. In June 2003, Qatar military servicemembers earned 3rd place officials asked Qatar-based U.S. during the first season marksmanship servicemembers to join them in competition. At the 2005 to 2006 athletic activities – a major success military sports competitions, they Permanent Off-Limit Areas of sociable interaction between the earned 2nd place in a cross country in Doha for Camp As two nations’ military forces. Prior run. The following season, Air Force Sayliyah Military and DOD to the athletic events in 2003, U.S. Capt. Benjamin Washburn, from Civilians: servicemembers had limited, low- Colorado Springs, Co., achieved level, military-to-military relations 1st place during a pistol competition Iranian souqs • with their Qatar counterparts. To against eight Qatari military teams. • Industrial area bring the two diverse cultures According to Washburn, he had together, a common interest was • Al Wakra never shot pistol one-handed before • Marine House located at the US Embassy • Establishments serving alcohol, except full-service restaurants located in: Four Seasons, Ritz-Carlton, Intercontinental, Sheraton, Marriott, and Ramada hotels • Local residences of employees of private corporations or other civilian organizations under contract U.S. Armed Forces battle their Qatari counterparts during a volleyball with the U.S. government championship game in Doha, Qatar, Oct. 23. In June 2003, Qatar military officials asked Qatar-based U.S. servicemembers to join them Contact Capt. Mark Singer, ASG-QA deputy provost marshall for more in athletic activities – a major success of sociable interaction between information. the two nations’ military forces. (Official Army Photo/Ding Alcayde)

Desert Mesh : 30 : December 2008/January 2009 DOHA LIFE – in competition or otherwise. doubles table tennis competition. However, he was provided a helpful Events still on the schedule include: range coach by the host nation’s basketball, marksmanship, cross- military. country and the military run – as well as various other competitions “It’s nice to see an American that are dependent on troop standing in formation to receive a availability. trophy,” said Qatar Army Brig. Gen. Khalifa Al Khulaifi, Qatari Military “The Qatar military takes extra Sports Association deputy director, pride in their sports competitions,” U.S. Air Force Capt. minutes before the award ceremony said Hani Abukishk, Area Support Benjamin Washburn, from honoring Washburn with a gold Group Qatar civil affairs officer. Colorado Springs, Co., is medal on Jan. 20, 2008. Qatar He was part of the first negations congratulated by members Army Lt. Jo’an bin Hamad Al Thani, to bring the two nations together of the Qatar military, Jan. military police officer, son of the emir, in sports competitions. “Especially 30, 2007. Washburn earned was present to congratulate the Air the marksmanship events, since the first gold medal since Force security forces officer. they specifically showcase a military U.S. servicemembers began skill, unlike basketball and soccer. participating in Qatar military The 2008 to 2009 season is still The Qatar rifle and pistol teams sports competitions in 2004. underway. So far, the U.S. Armed generally don’t expect us to beat (Official Army Photo/Dustin Forces earned 2nd place at the them,” he said. Senger)

Qatar sports Ambassador LeBaron remarked that the U.S. Embassy supported strengthen the vision of Qatar’s leaders in pro- moting sporting activities as part of connections a healthy lifestyle, and there were no people better placed than our military service members to help us U.S. Embassy Qatar achieve that goal. Press release The Qatari and U.S. militaries, DOHA, Qatar, Nov. 23, 2008 which enjoy a long tradition of co- – U.S. Ambassador to Qatar operation in all fields, take advan- Joseph LeBaron and Brig. Gen. tage of the cooler months to field Khalifa Al Khulaifi, Qatar Military teams in friendly competitions in a U.S. Army Sgt. Lumbala Sports Association deputy director, number of sports. Walumbala (right), from inaugurated a friendly soccer game Sacramento, Calif., runs between teams from the Qatari and Prior to the soccer match, Raed toward an opposing goal U.S. militaries. The early morning Barghouti, coach of the American during a championship soccer match, which was played at Al Sadd team, observed that his side was game at Al Sadd stadium stadium, highlighted the successful taking on a big challenge by facing collaboration between the two in Doha, Qatar, Nov. 27. the strongest Qatari military soccer Walumbala joined several militaries in the sports arena. team this season. The coach’s con- other members of the U.S. cerns were borne out by the Armed Forces to play against results, as the U.S. team their Qatari counterparts was soundly defeated. during the nation’s annual military sports competitions. Speaking before the game, (Official Army Photo/Ding Brigadier General Al Khu- Alcayde) laifi said he welcomed fur- ther sports collaboration between the U.S. and Qa- (Courtesy Photo/U.S. Embassy Qatar) tari militaries.

Desert Mesh : 31 : December 2008/January 2009 Education Center The Army Continuing Education System offers a variety of programs to assist SAFETY servicemembers in obtaining their college degree, GED, Seasonal Other; 18 percent). certification or licensure – through a variety of distance concerns for At Camp As Sayliyah, it’s ex- learning programs. Visit driving in Doha tremely important for leaders to the education center for impose a strong vehicle safety awareness program within their more information on ACES By ISIDORO A. GEVEROLA programs and services. respective units. Statistically, ac- ASG-QA safety manager cidents occur more often while off-duty. Off-post travel can be dif- • Tuition assistance The U.S. Army Combat Readi- ficult, especially for an unfamiliar • GI Bill ness/Safety Center fiscal 2008 driver finding their way in a foreign • Distance education end-of-year review reported a re- traffic environment. • eArmyU duction in Class A accidents on • Promotion points! ground. Army Motor Vehicle and Qatar weather conditions and Army Combat Vehicle Class A ac- local aggressive driving habits, Contact Annette Whitaker, education cidents significantly decreased. center director, for more information. compounded with treacherous Class A accidents for AMV and roads, offer significant challenges Drove a Little Fast? ACV vehicles accounted for nine for all drivers. The sun sets quick- percent and three er during the cool percent, respectively. Statistically, accidents season and fog Check traffic violations at the However, privately- Qatar e-Government portal: occur more often while appears in the owned vehicle and off-duty. Off-post travel http://www.moi.gov.qa/English early mornings motorcycle accidents can be difficult, espe- with airborne cially for an unfamiliar @ and fatalities are sand settling in Vehicle Accidents driver finding their way continuing problem the air. Take your All accidents, on and off post, areas for the Army. in a foreign traffic en- must be reported to the military vironment. time and learn POVs accounted for measures to en- police desk, no matter how 55 percent of total minor: 460-8214 sure you arrive Class A accidents in fiscal 2008, safely and avoid becoming an far eclipsing the second most Army loss statistic! • Call your supervisor common cause (Personnel Injury- • Report the five W’s • If damage is minor, move your vehicle off the road. • DO NOT move the vehicle after a major collision • DO NOT leave the scene unless instructed by an official.

Put these phone numbers in your mobile phone:

Off-post emergency: 999 On-post emergency: 911 ASG-QA BDOC: 460-8423 ASG-QA Civil Affairs: 588- 9345

Contact Capt. Mark Singer, ASG- U.S. Army Chyna Williams, from Crestview, Fla., attends tactical QA deputy provost marshall, or Hani Abukishk, civil affairs officer, for more vehicle training at Camp As Sayliyah, Qatar, Dec. 19. (Official Army information. Photo/Ding Alcayde)

Desert Mesh : 32 : December 2008/January 2009 SAFETY Driving in the dark during the cool weather season. avoid having to use emergency Exercise caution and avoid ex- driving tactics. It’s important to remain alert and cessive speeds when driving dur- ready to react while conducting ing these periods of limited vis- You can prevent skids by driving off-post missions at night. Driv- ibility – pedestrians, bicycles and slowly and carefully, particularly ing after sunset is challenging motorcycles can become difficult around curves. Steer and brake - sometimes dan- to spot! with a light touch; avoid hard gerous. According Losing control of your breaking when you need to stop to the U.S. National car on wet pavement You may use low- or slow down. If you start to skid, is a frightening experi- beam headlights or remain calm and ease your foot Safety Council, traf- ence. Skidding and hy- fic death rates are fog lights to indicate off the gas – only apply the brake droplaning can happen if your car has an anti-lock brak- three times greater unless you execute your position on the at night than dur- timely defensive and road to other driv- ing system. Carefully steer in the ing the day. In fact, preventive measures ers. But do not use direction you want the front of the nighttime death to adjust your speed your high-beam car to move. Steering into the skid rates are more than during wet conditions. headlights or your will bring the back end of your car two times higher. hazard lights as a in line with the front. Why is it so dangerous? Dark- means of being seen. Although ness and fatigue are the primary this is a popular practice here, it Hydroplaning occurs when the culprits. can easily lead to traffic accidents water in front of your tire builds by creating poor visibility and dis- up faster than your car’s weight can push it out of the way. Water Qatar streets are often poorly lit, tractions for you and other driv- pressure causes your car to rise especially in the industrial area. ers. Be better prepared to react to up and slide on the wet road. Your Ninety percent of a driver’s re- sudden changes by leaving plenty car can lose contact with the road action depends on vision. After of space between you and other and drift out of your lane. Do not sundown, depth perception, color vehicles. brake or turn suddenly if you find recognition and peripheral vision yourself hydroplaning. Ease your are all compromised. Along the Roads soaked by rain foot off the gas until the car slows streets in Qatar, people frequently and you can feel the road again. wear dark clothing, ride bicycles According to historical averages, If you need to brake, do it gently with no lights or reflectors, as well Qatar’s rainy season emerges with light pumping actions. You as walk across busy streets and in December and continues until can brake normally if your car has intersections with little warning. March. In December 2006, resi- an anti-lock system; a computer dents witnessed record break- mimics the pumping action when Sleepiness slows reaction time, ing down pours. The roads filled necessary. To avoid hydroplaning, decreases awareness and im- with water during this uncanny keep your tires properly inflated, pairs judgment – just like drugs or wet season and many drivers maintain good tire condition, slow alcohol. Driving after a long, hard, found themselves unprepared. down on wet roads and stay away mentally demanding day can be So far we have had few showers from puddles. Try to drive in the very risky. You are at serious risk in 2008, but it’s likely we will see tire tracks left by the cars in front for an accident if you work long or widespread down pours over the of you. odd hours, drive a great deal each next month or two. day, suffer from a sleep disorder Be aware of high winds or have been prescribed medica- Losing control of your car on wet tion with sedatives. pavement is a frightening experi- Driving in windy conditions can ence. Skidding and hydroplaning be another test of driving skills. Finding your way in fog can happen unless you execute You need to be extra cautious and timely defensive and preventive maintain good control of your ve- Qatar is in its inclement weather measures to adjust your speed hicle by driving defensively, season. Heavy fog frequently during wet conditions. Precau- unfolds in early morning hours tionary driving habits will help you (Continued on page 34)

Desert Mesh : 33 : December 2008/January 2009 Safety/Fire Training Attend the installation safety training.

Unit Safety Representative and Fire SAFETY Warden/Prevention driving Be extremely careful when open- • Jan. 15: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ing vehicle doors while parked in Confined Space Training (Continued from page 33) windy conditions. Strong winds • Jan. 20: 9 a.m. to noon can easily whip the door right out First Aid Training reducing your vehicle speed, in- of your hand and damage the ve- hicle parked next to you. • Jan. 21: 9 a.m. to noon. creasing your following distance CPR Training and giving yourself plenty of Driving in Qatar can be difficult • Jan. 22: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. room to react to blowing objects and debris. Be careful of upcom- without any adverse environmental Fire Extinguisher Training ing traffic situations – even when conditions. Stay aware of your sur- • Jan. 27: 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. you maintain proper control, other roundings and drive to arrive. HAZWOPER Refresher drivers may not. • Jan. 27: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. HAZWOPER Supervisor Record-breaking awards in 2008 and continues to • Jan. 28: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. present itself as a premier instal- safety period in lation for safety excellence. Contact Isidoro Geverola, installation safety manager, or Daniel Guzman, Qatar installation fire chief, for more During 2009, the safety office information. will focus on in-house training, By ISIDORO A. GEVEROLA identifying hazards and an even ASG-QA safety manager more proactive composite risk management program. The goal CAMP AS SAYLIYAH, Qatar is to achieve safety excellence in – Camp As Sayliyah residents every possible mission-oriented achieved 247 accident-free days, endeavor. Dec. 31, marking the longest inci- dent-free period ever recorded at Safety first! Senior military leaders the U.S. military installation. This demand it and military personnel, safety milestone is evidence of su- civilians, and contractors live by it. perior safety awareness, training Why? Because it’s the right thing to and enforcement throughout the do! Safety is of utmost importance U.S. military installation in Qatar. in every military environment. A strong safety culture is evident throughout the base – from top senior military leaders, to enlisted ranks and instal- lation contractors.

“Safety first” is the safety call for Area Support Group Qatar – echoing loud and clear for everyone work- ing on Camp As Sayliyah. Since ASG-QA provides base operation services for Lt. Gen. James J. Lovelace, U.S. the installation populace, Army Central commanding general, the safety program is fo- presents the Secretary of the Army and cused on individual wellbe- Chief of Staff of the Army Exceptional ing and over-all installation Organization Safety Award to Col. safety. As a result of numer- David G. Cotter, Area Support Group ous efforts, ASG-QA accu- Qatar commander, June 21. (Official mulated Army-level safety Army Photo/Dustin Senger)

Desert Mesh : 34 : December 2008/January 2009 New traffic law For minor accidents, drivers must move vehicles to avoid traffic congestion and a 1,000 SAFETY Qatari Riyal (roughly $275) fine You can take several effective measures to minimize after- as articulated in the new Qatari dark dangers by preparing your car and following special traffic law: guidelines while you drive. The National Safety Council recommends the following tactics: • Qatari Traffic Law, Article 23: “Not removing • Prepare your car for night driving. Clean headlights, taillights, signal the vehicle from the lights and windows (inside and out) once a week, more often if nec- accident’s site to the essary. nearest parking after non-casualty accident if • Have your headlights properly aimed. Misaimed headlights blind it is possible to move it other drivers and reduce your ability to see the road. and report to the police immediately.”

• Don’t drink and drive. Not only does alcohol severely impair your Contact Hani Abukishk, ASG-QA civil driving ability, it also acts as a depressant. Just one drink can induce affairs officer, for more information. fatigue.

• Avoid smoking when you drive. Smoke’s nicotine and carbon mon- oxide hamper night vision.

• If there is any doubt, turn your headlights on. Lights will not help you see better in early twilight, but they’ll make it easier for other drivers to see you. Being seen is as important as seeing.

• Reduce your speed and increase your following distances. It is more difficult to judge other vehicle’s speeds and distances at night.

• Don’t overdrive your headlights. You should be able to stop inside the illuminated area. If you’re not, you are creating a blind crash area in front of your vehicle.

• When following another vehicle, keep your headlights on low beams so you don’t blind the driver ahead of you.

• If an oncoming vehicle doesn’t lower beams from high to low, avoid glare by watching the right edge of the road and using it as a steer- ing guide.

• Make frequent stops for light snacks and exercise. If you’re too tired to drive, stop and get some rest.

• If you have car trouble, pull off the road as far as possible. Warn approaching traffic at once by setting up reflecting triangles near your vehicle and 300 feet behind it. Turn on flashers and the dome light. Stay off the roadway and get passengers away from the area.

• Observe night driving safety as soon as the sun goes down. Twilight is one of the most difficult times to drive, because your eyes are constantly changing to adapt to the growing darkness.

Desert Mesh : 35 : December 2008/January 2009 ..:: Contribute and be published in the Desert Mesh! ::.. Please contact the ASG-QA public affairs office to learn how to become a contributor.

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Edition 58

This Army magazine is an authorized publication for members of the Department of Defense. Contents of the Desert Mesh are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government or De- partment of the Army. The editorial content is the responsibility of the Area Support Group-Qatar public affairs Office. General comments should be addressed to [email protected] or call 011-974-450-2714 (DSN 318-432-2572).