Established in 1917 to honor those who serve

Vol. 1, No. 2 MULTI-NATIONAL DIVISION – BAGHDAD “steadfast and loyal” february 5, 2006 Iraqi army Iraqi Police graduate academy celebrates 85th Story and photo by Spc. C. Terrell Turner Interior. Iraqi Police Service, they include the rapid 4th Inf. Div. PAO “Today is the 84th memorial of the estab- response Special Police Forces, the commemoration BAGHDAD – Amid cheers and enthusias- lishment of the Iraqi Police. This vital estab- Department of Border Enforcement, the Iraqi Story and photo by tic chants of support, the most recent graduat- lishment assumes a very sensitive duty, which Highway Patrol, and the Bureau of Dignitary Spc. C. Terrell Turner ing class of Iraqi Police stood proudly in front is to protect the Iraqi spirit from the evil power Protection. 4th Inf. Div. of Coalition Force leaders, the Iraqi Minister of the terrorists and murderers.” Currently, there are five police academies, of Defense and the Iraqi Minister of Interior The rebuilding of Iraq’s police force con- teaching a ten-week basic police training, BAGHDAD – With hundreds during Iraqi Police Day Jan 11. tinues to be an ongoing process. Large num- working together to produce 3,000 police offi- in attendance and the whole world Demonstrating their professionalism and bers of officers and enlisted members of the cers a month. watching, the people of Iraq cele- dedication to a unified, democratic Iraq, the police forces were called back into service by Upon graduation, new police officers are brated the 85th commemoration Iraqi Police conducted numerous exhibitions their old departments. Beginning in 2003, the required to take the Ministry of Interior Oath: of the Iraqi Army Jan. 6. on tactical operations in front of the distin- police directorate fell under the command of “I do solemnly swear by Almighty God that For the first time since guished guests in attendance. This included the reestablished Iraqi Ministry of Interior. I will bear true faith and allegiance to the Coalition Forces came into Iraq, police dog-assisted captures and hand-to-hand The police force consists of several agen- Iraqi people and my homeland of Iraq; that I people gathered at the Tomb of combat skills. cies, specially designed to address the difficul- will serve my nation and its constitution in all the Unknowns in central “This is a blessed day for everybody,” said ties facing the Iraqi people as they work to sta- fields, and protect the lives of all citizens, as Baghad’s Green Zone to show the Baqr Jabr Al-Zabeidi, Iraqi Minister of the bilize and secure the country. Along with the see celebration,pg.2 world the progress the Iraqis have made and to honor soldiers lost in battles of the past. Founded in 1921 with the Musa Al Kadhem Battalion, the Iraqi Army has played a crucial role in the political changes that have taken place in the country. But, unlike their actions under the command of former dictator Saddam Hussein, this new army seeks to help establish and main- tain a free and democratic Iraq. “I am a very old officer. I have been in the army since 1970,” said Major Gen. Mosdir Hatem, commander of the 6th Iraqi Army Division. “We celebrate with this ceremony every year. It is a very good feeling especially this year, after all the problems and difficul- ties we’ve had before. Today we celebrate establishing a new Iraqi Army.” The 6th IAD is the first divi- sion in the Iraqi army to take over battle space from coalition forces. Currently they operate in Central Baghdad and plan to take control of more areas as they make progress against the terrorists cur- rently seeking to prevent the sta- bilization of Iraq and the estab- Baqr Jabr Al-Zubeidi, Iraqi Minister of the Interior (far left), presents a diploma to a new graduate from an Iraqi Police Academy in Baghdad during a graduation ceremony on Iraqi Poilce Day Jan. 11. Each month, 3,000 Iraqi police graduate from the ten-week course. see army,pg.7

This Week Tail of two Ask Uncle Troy ...... 22 dogs: Canines Band Calendar ...... 17 train to find Criminal Justice ...... 3 Faces & Places ...... 24 explosives, Iraqi Phrases ...... 16 contraband MWR Calendars ...... 17 Corps of Engineers update Religious Services ..... 18 Page 12 Page 8 Sports Round Up ...... 23 Page 2 The Ivy Leaf february 5, 2006 celebration, CONTINUED FROM PG. 1

God is my witness.” The Iraqi police force has a long and rich history. It was originally created in 1920 under Police Notice #72 and officially established by the government in 1921 by the Iraqi Ministry of Interior. The first police chiefs and staffs for the brigades were appointed in 1922. The training was a joint effort conducted with the British until 1927. For several years after this, Iraqi delegations con- tinued to travel to England to attend high-level police training. Minister Al-Zubeidi is the third minister of the interior since the MOI reactivated. “The achievements made by our civil police in this short period makes this year deserve to (be called) ‘2006, The Year of the Police,’ because of all the successes being made by our brothers and sons in Photo by Spc. Charles Gill, 55th Signal Company attached to HHD, 1st BCT, 4th Inf. Div. the Iraqi Police,” he said. Sector of fire “This change in democracy in our country, after a A 9th Iraqi Army Division soldier observes his sector during a cordon and search mission Jan. 13 near Camp Taji. This long suffering and patience, has good results for the mission was part of a combined operation with 7th Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment, 1st BCT, 4th Infantry Division. Iraqi people.” News from the Front Young girl calls in roadside bomb tip one RPK machine gun, six sticks of C-4 explosives, an unknown amount of TNT, one 152mm round, one tazer and Multi-National Division – Baghdad BAGHDAD – A young girl phoned in a tip of a possible Iraqi army uniforms and identification cards. Public Affairs Office roadside bomb to Coalition Forces Jan. 14, potentially sav- (Courtesy of MND-B PAO) ing innocent lives. Commanding General: The girl reported seeing a white bag in a hole on a road 502nd Infantry Regiment Soldiers Maj. Gen. J.D. Thurman in southeast Baghdad. When Coalition Forces investigated, they found a man hiding in the grass by the road, as well as kill six terrorists in firefight Division Command Sergeant Major: four masked men in a car. A man carrying an AK-47 and Command Sgt. Maj. Ronald Riling talking on a cell phone was observed walking over to two BAGHDAD – While conducting an air-insertion mission, suspected trigger men who were in the prone position. Multi-National Division -- Baghdad Soldiers killed several Public Affairs Officer: insurgents, detained one and discovered a significant Lt. Col. Jonathan Withington Attack aviation engaged the terrorists preventing them from carrying out the attack. weapons cache Jan 11. Soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment Public Affairs Supervisor: Explosive Ordinance Disposal was called to disable the received small arms and indirect fire from insurgent forces Master Sgt. Eric Lobsinger roadside bomb. (Courtesy of MND-B PAO) at approximately 10:45 a.m. The Soldiers returned fire, Editor killing six terrorists and wounding one other. Sgt. 1st Class Mary Mott Two weapons caches discovered Following the fire fight, Soldiers discovered two dead Layout and Design insurgents wearing suicide vests, strapped with explosives. Sgt. Kristin Kemplin BAGHDAD – On Jan. 13, Coalition Forces discovered Soldiers found the weapons cache hidden in a shack. The Photo Editor two large weapons caches. The first cache consisted of six enormous weapons and equipment find consisted of: com- Sgt. K. Ann Drier 107mm rockets, 10 120mm rockets, one 155mm projectile, ponents to make 15 pressure plate improvised-explosive Staff Writers five 76mm rockets, one six-foot rocket, two blasting caps, devices, two 130mm mortar rounds and one 122mm mortar one roll of detonation cord, one 125mm heat round, 44 round. Staff Sgt. Adam Navarro Staff Sgt. Christian Farrell 122mm projectiles, four 102mm rounds and 12 155mm Soldiers also discovered one directional-charge IED, Spc. Karl Johnson rounds. more than 60 electronic detonation devices, 1,500 blasting Spc. C. Terrell Turner Spc. Jacob Judge They also found two 60mm rounds, one 60mm tube, one caps, 50 feet of detonation cord, two packages of plastic G3 rifle, one grease gun, 1 RPK and six 50-pound bags of explosives, four grenades, 200 feet of electrical wire, one The Ivy Leaf is an authorized publication for unknown substance believed to be bomb-making material. 12-volt battery, 400 pounds of homemade explosives, one members of the U.S. Army. Contents of The Ivy The second cache consisted of two recoilless rifles, one sniper rifle, four AK-47s and 20 AK-47 magazines. The Leaf are not necessarily official views of, or 300-lb. bomb casing, two 500-lb. bomb casings, one weapons cache was destroyed by a explosive ordinance dis- endorsed by, the U.S. Government, Department of the Army, or the 4th Infantry Division. The Ivy artillery casing, one TOW casing, three 10mm mortar cas- posal team. Leaf has a circulation of 10,000. The appear- ings, 15 rocket casings, 10 60mm casings, 25 multi-sized (Courtesy of Spc. George Welcome, 2nd BCT, 101st ance of advertising in this publication, including rocket casings, 30 82mm mortar round casings and 60 Airborne Div. PAO) inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the Department of the Army, the 60mm mortar casings. 4th Infantry Division, or The Ivy Leaf of the prod- Soldiers also discovered one tip of a 135mm casing Iraqi Police checkpoint spares ucts and services advertised. Everything adver- packed with an unknown substance without primer, and tised in this publication shall be made available Coalition Force convoy from IED for purchase, use or patronage without regard numerous mortar fins, rifle springs and empty magazines. BAGHDAD – Fast-thinking Iraqi Police spared Coalition to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, (Courtesy of MND-B PAO) marital status, physical handicap, political affli- Force Soldiers from an improvised explosive device in east- ation, or any other nonmerit factor of the pur- ern Baghdad Jan 9. chaser, user, or patron. All editorial content of 6th Iraqi Army Division and MND-B Iraqi Police manning a checkpoint stopped a convoy, The Ivy Leaf is prepared, edited, provided and approved by the Multi-National Division – Soldiers net weapons cache in raid headed by Staff Sgt. Mark Matthews, 801st Brigade Support Baghdad Public Affairs Office. Battalion, 506th Regimental Combat Team, and warned BAGHDAD – Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 6th Iraqi them of the device. Do you have a story to share? Army Division, supported by Multi-National Division -- The Iraqi Police explosive ordnance disposal team soon The Ivy Leaf welcomes columns, commentaries, Baghdad, detained a suspected terrorist and discovered a arrived and destroyed the IED. articles, letters and photos from readers. The weapons cache during a raid north of Baghdad Jan. 12. “The Iraqi Police provided additional security to help deadline for submissions for the February 5 edi- The Iraqi soldiers and Soldiers from a military training secure our convoy while we waited – then their EOD guys tion of The Ivy Leaf is January 19. The deadline exploded the device,” said Matthews. “The IPs tested the for submissions to the February 19 edition is team with 4th Battalion, 320th Field Artillery Regiment, February 2. Submissions should be sent to the received fire from insurgents but quickly suppressed the route, then we made it through with no problems.” Editor at [email protected]. The Ivy firefight and captured one suspect. “Our training is definitely paying off. I appreciate the IPs Leaf reserves the right to edit submissions The Iraqi soldiers also discovered three improvised letting my guys know about the IED. Their actions saved selected for the paper. For further information on lives,” said Capt. Henry Groulx, commander, Company A, deadlines, questions or comments, email the explosive devices, four mortar tubes, 50 mortar rounds, four Editor or call VOIP 242-4940 or 242-4062. rocket propelled grenade launchers, 30 RPG rounds, 50 801st BSB. AK-47 rifles, 10 rocket launchers, 10 rockets, 200 grenades, (Courtesy of Capt. James Lowe, 506th RTC PAO) february 5, 2006 The Ivy Leaf page 3 The Ivy Dragon: OPSEC reminder Maj. Derrill Guidry on non-secure cell phones (personal or govern- ensure that individuals have the proper securi- Operations Security Program ment) – especially family and friends back ty clearance AND need-to-know before dis- Manager, 4th Inf. Div. home. Remember, cell phone and internet closing or releasing information to them. (including the internet café) use is a privilege. TRASH VS. PAPER: ALL written and As I walk around Don’t try to talk “around” classified informa- printed documents/presentations, AAFES the camp and visit tion. Think before talking about the details of receipts, personal letters, memos, notes, finan- forward operating your job. cial statements, etc. go in burn bags or boxes bases in our area of AGGRESSIVELY ENFORCE ACCESS or shredders – No Exceptions. Trash is con- responsibility, it is CONTROL: Be prepared to show and wear sidered as snack food wrappers, empty water clear that many of us your security badge in restricted and access- bottles, food scraps, AAFES or “Burger King” Criminal Justice have gotten comfort- controlled areas (i.e. division headquarters). bags, etc., and is thrown in regular trash Statistics able and complacent Know who’s in your area at all times, and chal- receptacles or bins. DO NOT be a victim of in this “secure” envi- lenge anyone who looks suspicious. the “Dumpster Dive”!!! No criminal justice ronment. Before departing Fort Hood, every DO NOT DIS- STAY ALERT … statistics to report Soldier, NCO and officer received mandatory PLAY IDENTIFI- STAY ALIVE: This OPSEC training and was made aware of the CATION IN PUB- is important because potential threats we now face in the theater of LIC AREAS: Do not too many of us hold operations. wear ID Card/Badge our heads down as You’re not THE ENEMY IS EVERYWHERE! We holders on the out- we walk around our invulnerable. must remain vigilant at all times and practice side of your uniform AORs and as we pass good OPSEC 24/7. Here are a few reminders with your picture and each other. Hold to ensure essential secrecy and protect the personal data your head up, look lives of our soldiers and families: exposed to public around, and observe THINK BEFORE YOU TALK: Who’s lis- view. Take it off and your environment tening to your conversations? Don’t talk secure it until need- ALWAYS. Knowing about mission details, family issues, money ed. your environment problems, relationship/marital problems, etc. SECURE ALL and being able to while standing in line at the DFAC, PX, AT&T CLASSIFIED MATERIALS: If you don’t quickly adapt to a change of scenery or iden- Call Center, or Internet Café -- unless you have official courier orders, don’t get caught tifying potentially dangerous individuals are want to become a perfect target for the enemy. lollygagging outside of your unit headquarters, critical to maintaining effective operations CELL PHONES/INTERNET: Do not dis- TOC, SCIF with “SECRET” thumbdrives or security. ASK QUESTIONS: If you have a All vehicles are cuss mission details, itineraries or specific classified documents. question about security, ask. There’s no at risk. locations of personnel/units with ANYONE INFORMATION SECURITY: Always magic to it -- OPSEC is common sense. The Unsung Hero: Sgt. Alberto Olivera

Story and photo by night.” Sgt. Jorge Gomez, He worked round the 2nd BCT PAO, 4th Inf. Div. clock to make the club a Alberto Olivera dreamed about having better place. Eventually, it all, so he dropped out of college in the owners offered to sell Puerto Rico to pursue his dreams. “At him the club since he had that time, money was more important to more interest in it than me than college,” he said. they. He became a supervisor in a name Almost a year had gone brand sports apparel store after impress- by since he first walked ing the manager with his organizational into the club as a customer, skills. “I started to make good money and and now the same carnival was happy with the job,” Olivera said. was approaching—and But one day during a carnival in Manati, that meant a big crowd in Puerto Rico, he walked into a night club. the club. “It looked like a good club but the peo- This time around, he ple didn’t seem to be having much fun so would be the owner. “But I approached the DJ and made a few sug- during the carnival I start- gestions.” ed to think about what I After taking control of the microphone was getting myself into,” and rallying the crowd, the owner decid- he said. “Fights were ed to let Olivera DJ for a few nights. breaking out and drunk Eventually Olivera worked his way people were causing prob- Sgt. Alberto Olivera, S-4 assistant noncommissioned officer, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th through the club structure from DJ to lems.” Infantry Division, used to keep track of club music, bands and beer in a Puerto Rico night doorman to bartender. “I asked myself if I real- club. He now keeps track of combat power vehicles in Iraq. Olivera said he could sense that the ly wanted to do this for the rest of my Jackson for basic combat training, Soldier with what he needs, it’s like wak- owners were mismanaging the club. life.” Olivera said he began to feel a need Olivera had a strong sense that he was ing up without having a cup of coffee. I “The owners weren’t organizing their to work his way out of the club business about to do something significant with his have even given Soldiers my own person- employees, but that’s because they because it wasn’t the kind of future he life. al items when I’ve had trouble finding weren’t taking the club as a serious busi- wanted. “It was exciting to be a club owner them.” ness,” he said. One morning in July 002 when he was because (I thought that) it made me Sgt. Olivera, 28, is now the S-4 assis- He made suggestions to the owners on headed home after spending all night at famous. But looking back, I realize it was tant NCO for the 2nd Brigade Combat how to improve the business, but instead the club, he noticed an Army recruiting just the club that was famous. People did- Team, 4th Infantry Division. of implementing the suggestions them- station. n’t look at me for my achievements. In But old habits die hard, and Olivera is selves, the owners made him the manag- He walked into the station and the the Army I’m gaining personal satisfac- currently looking into the possibility of er. He quit his job at the sports apparel recruiter talked to him about the supply tion and building inside myself things starting a mini-night club or a miniature store and focused solely on the club. “I specialist military occupational specialty. that I could look back on and be proud golf course on FOB Kalsu. “If I can get made big changes to the club. I made a After that talk, Olivera said, he knew days of,” he said. something going on to help Soldiers feel plan for every week and projected what as an entrepreneur were numbered. For Olivera, helping Soldiers is what like they are back home, then I will be music or bands would play on a given When he first stepped onto Fort makes his day go well. “If I can’t help a happy to help them out.” Page 4 The Ivy Leaf february 5, 2006 CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY MONTH

History of Black History Month “A day on, not a day off” Camp Liberty Soldiers celebrate on Dr. Martin Luther King Day Photos by Spc. Jake Judge, 363rd MPAD

Midsummer Night in Harlem (1938) by Palmer Hayden (1890- 1973). He was one of the first African-American artists to use African subjects and designs in his paintings. This painting, Hayden's most famous work, depicts the residents of Harlem's brownstone houses and showed a thriving African- ABOVE Sgt. 1st Class Walter Preston, equal American community. opportunity non-commissioned officer, Fires Credit: Harmon Collection/National Archives Brigade, 4th Inf. Div., puts up a poster com- Excerpted from The History of Black History, by Elissa Haney memorating Martin Luther King day at the divi- sion dining facility on Camp Liberty Jan. 16. mericans have recognized black history annually since 1926, first as "Negro History Week" and later LEFT Maj. Ashawn Campbell, 4 Inv. Div. as "Black History Month." What you might not know equal opportunity office program manager, affixes a poster commemorating Martin Luther is that black history had barely begun to be studied— King Day inside the barriers at the Camp Aor even documented—when the tradition originated. Although Liberty division dining facility. blacks have been in America at least as far back as colonial times, it was not until the 20th century that they gained a respectable presence in the history books. We owe the celebration of Black History Month, and more importantly, the study of black history, to Dr. Carter G. Woodson. Born to parents who were former slaves, he spent his childhood working in the Kentucky coal mines and enrolled in high school at age twenty. He graduated within two years and later went on to earn a Ph.D. from Harvard. The scholar was disturbed to find in his studies that history books largely ignored the black American population—and when blacks did figure into the picture, it was generally in ways that reflected the inferior social position they were assigned at the time. Woodson, always one to act on his ambitions, decided to take on the challenge of writing black Americans into the nation's history. He established the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (now called the Association for the Study of Afro-American Life and History) in 1915, and a year later founded the widely respected Journal of Negro History. In 1926, he launched Negro History Week as an initiative to bring national attention to the contributions of black people through- out American history. A chef serves comemorative cake to Sgt. Chad Alexander of Division Troops Company, 4th Inf. Div., during the noon meal at the division DFAC on Camp Liberty Jan. 16. Woodson chose the second week of February for Negro History Week because it marks the birthdays of two men who greatly influenced the black American population, Frederick "Hell Fighters" From Harlem instill valuable lessons Douglass and Abraham Lincoln. However, February has much Sechault, France, September 29, a regimental his- the 369th Soldiers dug in to con- more than Douglass and Lincoln to show for its significance in September 29, 1918. torian would later remember, solidate their advance position. black American history. For example: From Harlem streets, and "the day dawned clear and cool. The action depicted earned the February 23, 1868: W. E. B. DuBois, important civil rights other New York City neighbor- There was expectancy in the Croix de Guerre for the entire leader and co-founder of the NAACP, was born. hoods, they came, members of air." A fierce artillery barrage regiment, but the Meuse- February 3, 1870: The 15th Amendment was passed, granti- the only U.S. unit to get "over preceded the attack by the 369th, Argonne claimed nearly one- ng blacks the right to vote. there" with their old State name - nicknamed "Hell Fighters" by third of these black fighting men February 25, 1870: The first black U.S. senator, Hiram R. - the 15th New York. the enemy. as battle casualties. Revels (1822-1901), took his oath of office. These black National After a brutal struggle during This distinguished National February 12, 1909: The National Association for the Guardsmen soon found them- which heavy casualties were sus- Guard Regiment left its proud Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) was founded by a selves with a new name, the tained, Sechault was taken and mark on the AEF as "the regi- group of concerned black and white citizens in New York City. 369th Infantry Regiment. ment that never lost a man February 1, 1960: In what would become a civil-rights Many months after their captured, a trench or a foot movement milestone, a group of black Greensboro, N.C., col- arrival in the war zone the of ground..." lege students began a sit-in at a segregated Woolworth's lunch 369th Infantry, as part of the Today’s 369th counter. French army’s 161st Transportation Battalion1, February 21, 1965: Malcolm X, the militant leader who pro- Division, marched toward a New York Army National moted Black Nationalism, was shot to death by three Black date with destiny in the Guard, carries on the tradi- Muslims. Meuse-Argonne offensive. tions of the gallant "Hell On a fateful day, Fighters" of yesterday. february 5, 2006 The Ivy Leaf page 5 IN MEMORIAM 1/10th Mountain Division presents awards to Soldiers who saved the lives of Iraqi Police By Spc Carlos Caro Carson’s patrol was able to get the man to Compton, attached to 1-87 Inf. as part under attack from terrorists with small 1st BCT, 10th Mtn. Div. PAO the Camp Liberty medical facility. of 3rd Battalion, 15th Infantry, distin- arms fire. BAGHDAD – Soldiers from 1st Coalition forces then transferred the guished himself as a Bradley Fighting Compton positioned his patrol in Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain police officer to the combat support hospi- Vehicle section leader Sept. 15 while con- between the IPs and terrorists. He quickly Division’s 1st Battalion, 87th Infantry tal in the Green Zone. ducting main supply route security in the realized that one of the IPs had been work closely with their Iraqi Police coun- “I just did what I would hope anyone 1st Brigade area of operations. Compton injured, so he dismounted and ran to his terparts every day while they serve to would do for me,” said Carson. was called to assist Iraqi Police, who were aid, carrying the man to safety within his bring freedom to Iraq. Bradley Fighting Vehicle so the man Three 1-87 Inf. Soldiers risked their could be evacuated, treated and lives to save the lives of their fellow com- returned to duty. rades serving with the Iraqi Police. Sgt. “I was completely honored to 1st Class Thomas Carson, Staff Sgt. receive this award,” said Compton. “At Robert Compton, and Spc. Andrew the time, I really wasn’t thinking about Suchanek were presented Army it. I just did what needed to be done. Commendation Medals with valor devices When I told my wife the story, she told Dec. 2. me I was crazy.” Carson distinguished himself when he Suchanek, a combat medic, demon- helped save the life of an Iraqi policeman strated his dedication to duty Oct. 10 by aiding in his treatment and evacuation when he used his body to shield an IP Oct. 1 while under direct fire. That day, who Suchanek was treating at the time Company C, 1-87 Inf., discovered an from any further harm so that the IP improvised explosive device and an could be evacuated and treated. explosive ordnance disposal team was dis- “I didn’t have time to think about patched to the site. it,” said Suchanek. “I just knew I did- When EOD arrived, 1-87 Infantry n’t want that guy to get hurt even Soldiers manning the security cordon worse. I just reacted.” came under fire and an Iraqi policeman During the same awards ceremony, was hit. the 1/10th Mtn. Div. leadership hand- The IP waved to Carson for help. Photo by Spc. Nathan Carr, 1-87 unit public affairs representative ed out 36 other awards, including nine Spc. Andrew Suchanek is presented the Army Commendation Medal with valor devices Carson ran while under fire to aid him. Purple Hearts, three Army Dec. 2 from Lt. Col. Bill Burleson, commander, 1st Battalion, 87th Infantry. Suchanek Carson used supplies from his own med- was one of three 1-87 Inf. Soldiers who risked their lives to save the lives of their fel- Commendation Medals with valor ical kit to treat the Iraqi policeman, and low comrades serving with the Iraqi Police. Sgt. 1st Class Thomas Carson and Staff device, nine Army Commendation then dragged him to safety while the Sgt. Robert Compton were also presented Army Commendation Medals with valor Medals, 17 Army Achievement Medals insurgents continued to fire at him. devices Dec. 2. and three 1st Brigade coins. Fallen ‘Fighting Fifth’ Soldier remembered No Soldier Story by Sgt. 1st Class Mary Mott, 363rd MPAD CAMP LIBERTY – His fellow Soldiers remember Dominic Coles as left behind a man who always had a smile on his face and lived life to the fullest. When enemy fire took his life Dec. 26, Coles was 25 years old. Sgt. Coles, a member of Company A, 5th Engineer Battalion out of Fort Leonard Wood, Mo, joined the Army in 1999 from his hometown of Jessup, Ga. He served with Company A, 54th Engineer Battalion Combat (Corps) (Mechanized), Warner Barracks, Germany, and the 588th Engineer Battalion at Fort Hood, Texas, prior to being deployed to Iraq. At a memorial ceremony held at Camp Liberty Jan. 2, Sgt. Coles was also remembered in tributes given by fellow unit members, includ- ing Staff Sgt Omar McLendon, Co A, 1st Pltn, 1st Squad Leader, who was Coles’ battle buddy and roommate. McLendon said Coles was a “leader and a knowledgeable noncom- missioned officer” who knew his job as a gunner thoroughly, but also loved music, was proficient in computers, and was a devoutly religious Sgt. Matthew Maupin man, “a believer and a Soldier of God” as well as his fellow man. Coles “gladly accepted responsibility; he never asked for a break and “I will never he never complained,” commented 1st Lt. Matthew Nelson. “Gunning leave a fallen was not the only role he played.” He was a leader, a Soldier, an example, a friend and a brother-in-arms. comrade.” He was willing to do what 90 percent of America was not – he was will- These well known words ing to fight for his country.” from the Warrior Ethos Lt. Col. Michael McGuire remarked that Coles was a “‘Fighting Fifth’ ring true for Sgt. Matt Soldier who dedicated himself to serving our country” and lived the Maupin. Maupin is an Army values with “intensity and pride.” Army Reserve Soldier Sgt Undray Jones, Company A, described himself as Coles best friend from 724th and “my homeboy” who had transferred from Company B to Company Transportation Company A in order to serve in the same company with him. “The morning of the who was captured April 26th” Jones recalled tearfully, he got up early and went over to where 9, 2004 during Operation Coles was preparing to go out on the convoy. “We talked about life, what Iraqi Freedom 2. Sgt. we were both going to do when we got back to Fort Leonard Wood.” Maupin – we are still Looking back on that day, Jones said “I guess God was telling me I had looking for you, and we to say Goodbye to my best friend.” will find you. You have Sgt. Coles leaves behind a wife, Tony Coles, and three small children, not been forgotten. Alicia, Ashley and Daryl, as well as his father, William Coles, Jr. His mother, Mary Taylor Coles, predeceased him. Page 6 The Ivy Leaf february 5, 2006

Sgt. Paul Swanson, squad leader, Company E, 2nd Battalion, 8th Infantry Regiment, with the help of interpreter Maitham, tutors Iraqi Sgt. Abbas Sadon Hadi, 4th Brigade, 8th Iraqi Army Division, on the M203 rifle at Forward Operating Base Iskandariyah Jan. 4. Soldiers from 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, are training their Iraqi counterparts on basic rifle marksmanship and other combat-related tasks to enable Iraqi soldiers to conduct operations independently. Iraqi army, ‘Talons’ fight terrorists together Story and photos by Pfc. Michael Molinaro The 2nd BCT is in the phase of Operation Iraqi 2nd BCT PAO, 4th Inf. Div. Freedom where there is a deep partnership between nabling Iraqi soldiers to operate independ- the two armies, said Brooks. Company command- ently is one of the key tasks of the 2nd ers and other leaders from both armies meet several Battalion, 8th Infantry Regiment. The times a week to plan missions, operations and train ‘Talons’ of 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th together. EInfantry Division, wasted no time getting to work “They are no longer huddled in a command with their Iraqi counterparts, coaching and mentor- post,” Brooks said. “They are taking the fight to ing them even as they engage terrorists together. the terrorists.” “We fight shoulder to shoulder,” said Capt. The units live in close proximity to each other, Colin Brooks, commander, Company B, 2-8 Inf. allowing them to learn more about each other's cul- “The goal by the end of the year is total self- tures and strengthen the bond that is forming from reliance so these guys can fight and win on their conducting missions together. own. They are already fairly close.” “We play soccer with them,” said Swanson, Soldiers drill Iraqis in formation movement, grinning. “We are trying to teach them how to play rifle marksmanship, cordon security and Military basketball, but that may take a while.” Operations in Urban Terrain situations. Soldiers from both Armies agree that there are “This area is very dangerous,” said Iraqi Sgt. challenges that need to be overcome to ensure the Tahseen Ali Ghano, executive battalion sergeant, success of the Iraqi Army's development. 4th Brigade, 8th Iraqi Army Division. The Iraqi Army is much further ahead tactically “This teaching gives us a lot of confidence. We than they are logistically, said Brooks. Other ele- hope to take more responsibility away from the ments in the 4th Inf. Div. will train Iraqis on man- Americans. We want to get more experience and aging personnel and logistics. secure this area.” Getting more Iraqis to join the military is anoth- Sgt. Paul Swanson, squad leader, Company E, er test at hand for the IA, said Lt. Asad, command- Capt. Colin Brooks, commander, Company B, 2nd Battalion, 8th Infantry Regiment, conducts reflexive fire training with soldiers 2-8 Inf., said he has seen a performance improve- er, 4th Company, 8th IA Div. from the 4th Company, 8th Iraqi Army Div., at Forward Operating ment in the Iraqi soldiers since his previous “We hope to someday get on the same level as Base Kalsu Jan. 7. The 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry deployment 1.5 years ago. the Americans,” Asad said. “We are trying to end Division Soldiers are training their Iraqi counterparts combat oper- “We are out there with them on missions,” said terrorism in Iraq. As Iraqis, we need to save each ation techniques as the Iraqi Army continues its successful devel- Swanson. “I am very confident in their abilities.” other.” opment under the tutelage of coalition forces. february 5, 2006 The Ivy Leaf page 7 Ambassador Says 2006 to Be 'Year of Police' for Iraq By Jim Garamone with Iraqi army units, and larger units - Iraqi is a diverse country, and the nation our regional friends and allies to do more American Forces Press Service brigades and divisions - will stand up and must reach "a national compact" as the per- to support the emergence of Iraq as a val- BAGHDAD – 2006 will be the 'Year of take over battlespace from coalition forces. manent government takes reins in the com- ued partner in regional political and eco- the Police' in Iraq, the U.S. ambassador to The 8th Iraqi Army Division, for example, ing months, the ambassador said. He said nomic systems," he said. "We will also take Iraq said here today. At a news conference, was certified as ready today in a ceremony the negotiations over the constitution steps to stem unhelpful activities by Syria Zalmay Khalilzhad charted Iraqi political at Multinational Division Central South. began the discussion and narrowed the dif- and Iran." progress over the past year, and talked But the police need some work to ferences among groups, deferring some The U. S. will work with the new gov- about the road ahead for the country. become "credible in their own communi- decisions until the newly elected parlia- ernment to enhance the national ministries, The ambassador, who arrived in Iraq in ties," the ambassador said. The newly ment has a chance to debate them. and to help the provincial and regional July after serving as U.S. ambassador to elected government's selection of a new "This give-and-take and willingness to governments, Khalilzad said. The provin- Afghanistan, said the United States is mak- interior minister will be critical, he said. search for accommodation set the stage for cial reconstruction team concept, so suc- ing progress on the "You can't have some- the ratification of the constitution," he said. cessful in Afghanistan, is being imported "Iraqization" of the securi- one who is regarded as In 2006, the ambassador added he will into Iraq, he added. And that will be a way ty effort. In 2005, the num- “Over the next year, sectarian as minister of work with the parties to help sort out that for coalition officials to help train a level of ber of Iraqi police and the interior," he said. Iraqi national compact. government that really didn't exist under army battalions skyrocket- we will encourage "You need to have some- Khalilzhad said goals of the past year to Saddam Hussein. The focus, he said, will ed from a handful to 123. our regional friends one who has the confi- include Iraqi "rejectionists" in the political be on delivering basic services to the Iraqi Some 81 of these battalions and allies to do more dence of all communi- process and isolate Saddamists and foreign people. are fighting side by side to support the emer- ties." fighters will continue. He pointed to the The ambassador noted economic gains with coalition forces and gence of Iraq as a Much training already number of Sunni Arabs who participated in over the past year. Iraq's gross domestic 42 are taking the lead role, is under way, and the the Dec. 15 election as a sign of success. product grew by 3 to 4 percent in 2004, and he said. valued partner in Interior Ministry's para- "In the coming year, we will continue to embassy officials estimate the growth for "We will work with regional political and military public order bat- bring more Iraqis into the political process, 2005 will be in double digits. Officials, the Iraqis to increase the size, economic systems.” talions acquitted them- which will isolate the hard-core terrorists ambassador explained, have recalibrated capability and credibility Zalmay Khalilzhad selves well in the past and Saddamists," he said. "We will contin- the Iraq reconstruction program to smaller of Iraqi forces," U.S. Ambassador to Iraq year, officials said. But ue to go after the terrorists in focused oper- projects employing Iraqi companies and Khalilzhad said. local police - also under ations." workers. He said he wants Iraq to shift The emphasis on the the Interior Ministry - Khalilzhad said he will continue efforts away from nonproductive subsidies. police does not mean the did not do as well, and to reach out to regional friends and allies to Finally, the ambassador said, he will Iraqi army will be neglected, said embassy the coalition will take steps to provide help Iraq, and will continue to discourage continue efforts to explain U.S. goals in officials after the briefing. Coalition mili- training and increase the professional out- "unhelpful" behavior by Iran and Syria. Iraq and the region as well as he can in as tary transition teams will continue to work look of the Iraqi force, officials added. "Over the next year, we will encourage many places as he can.

‘Warhorse’ Brigade joins festivities to honor year of success for Iraqi police By Maj. Anna Friederich, 2nd BCT PAO, 4th Inf. Div. ed. Qais said the coalition made it possible for them to renovate all the police stations FOB KALSU — The Iraqi Police Force in the Babil Province celebrated a year of suc- throughout the province, acquire much needed equipment, receive superior training and cess in a ribbon cutting and formal ceremony at the Hillah Police Compound Jan. 9. Brig. provide support to the families of the current force and students in the academy. Gen. Qais Hamza, the Babil Provincial Police chief, gathered distinguished guests and The Iraqi chief gave his Warhorse guests and VIPs a tour of the newest addition to the city and government leaders together as well as the leadership of 2nd Brigade Combat compound, a historical area displaying photographs of the Iraqi Police and the coalition Team, 4th Infantry Division, to review the success of the Iraqi Police and the way ahead training together. Qais opened the area by cutting a red ribbon signifying yet another step for 2006. Qais welcomed Col. John Tully, commander, 2nd BCT; Lt. Col. James Love, toward a strong and independent police force. Tully commemorated the occasion by commander, 1st Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment; and Lt. Col. Richard Muraski, com- being one of the first to sign the guest book. mander, Special Troops Battalion, with many thanks for the help coalition forces provid- See success,pg.14

a statement for the event saying: and peace throughout this region of the world. Army, CONTINUED FROM PG. 1 “The strategy of our new army is the defense of the “Since January of 2004, with the founding of the 40th lishment of a democratically elected government. homeland and its people and not as an instrument of enmi- Division, the army continues to modernize its equipment “I think that for the first time in a long time the Iraqi ty and strife directed toward our own people and our and improve its leadership capabilities to the point where Army is seeing itself as protecting the people, instead of a neighbors. The army’s role is to defend our homeland and now it has fielded 10 full divisions including one mecha- regime.” said 1st. Sgt. Charles Smith, Civilian Military allow a free Iraqi people, with a democratically elected nized division and one special forces division along with Operations Military Transition Team advisor, 448th Civil government, to contribute to the establishment of security the other branches of service, the air force and navy.” Affairs Battalion. Dr. Sadoun Al Dulami, Iraqi Minister of Defense, placed wreaths at the Tomb of the Unknowns before mov- ing down to the parade field to address the civilians, local and international media and Iraqi Army troops in atten- dance. “We are doing our best to build a very strong army that has the ability and the power to fight against our enemies and to protect Iraq from the insurgents and assassins,” he said. “We are trying to (be) an army for all of the Iraqi peo- ple without caring about their ethnicity or their tribal affil- iations.” After the ceremony atop the Tomb of the Unknowns, units from all 10 of the Iraqi Army divisions marched in front of the crowd. Iraqi tanks and armored vehicles also were on display on the parade grounds. Several Iraqi citizens in attendance noted that this was a ‘first’ for them in many respects. “I haven’t heard the Iraqi national anthem since before Saddam came into power over 35 years ago,” said one Iraqi man emotionally. “Before this we only heard pro-Saddam songs played at ceremonies.” Since the establishment of a provincial Iraqi govern- ment, significant strides have been made towards stability Dr. Sadoun Al Dulami, Iraqi Minister of Defense (center), meets with Iraqi Army generals and other dignitaries and independence. The Iraqi Ministry of Defense released during the Iraqi Army birthday celebration at the Tomb of the Unknowns in Baghdad. Page 8 The Ivy Leaf February 5, 2006 Paws pound sand Story and photos by Sgt. Ann Drier During that time she has found many caches of 363rd MPAD weapons and stockpiles of munitions. She was taff Sgt. Archie, 67th Engineer awarded a Bronze Star and a Combat Action Detachment, greets everyone with medal during her deployment to Iraq. Because warmth and friendliness. His tail wags she is so good at her job, she has become quite and his tongue lolls from his mouth as well known amongst the insurgent populace. She places both huge paws on his visitor’s chest “They can clear an area one hundred times and gives them a dead-on look in the eyes. faster than soldiers can,” said Sgt. Mathew Staff Sgt. Figo greets her visitors with a seri- McKee, Staff Sgt. Archie’s handler, “because ous stare, more aloof than her counterpart, but they can smell through the walls. This makes still friendly. She’ll gladly accept a pet on the them safer and more cost efficient.” head, for a moment or two, before turning to “They’re very aware of what the dogs can more important business. do,” said Broda. “She has put a lot of people in The 67th Engineer Detachment adopted the prison. Staff Sgt. Figo has taken sniper fire - program, begun by the British army, using dogs and it was directed at her specifically. I’ve to find explosives and contraband, almost three heard that there is a $200,000 bounty for the years ago. Most of the dogs are found in man that brings back her ear.” pounds or donated to the program. They under- All the dogs trained for this mission have a go a training period of about three months tattoo of their ‘serial number’ in their ear to before being placed with a handler. identify them. Somehow the insurgents learned “I went to train under Roger Tredwell, who’s of this and have identified which animal to tar- been doing this kind of thing for 30 years,” said get. This has made it more dangerous for Staff Sgt. Daniel Broda, of 67th Engineer Sgt. Figo to work outside the parameters of the Detachment, handler for Staff Sgt. Figo. “I did- Victory Complex. Some of their missions are n’t see my dog for quite a while. He can judge within the Victory Complex, providing a much in one week which dog to team up with each needed break from constant exposure to handler. He makes the choice based on person- Combat Stress. These missions keep the teams ality and temperament of both the dog and the sharp for missions in the field and safe from handler. Most of the time it works out. ” sniper fire. “Figo is a Lab and Springer spaniel mix, so “She’s only got a little while left here,” said she’s a bit high strung. She’s very independ- Broda. “Our tour is almost up and we’ll get to ent,” said Broda. “It took quite a while before go home. Then we’ll get some time off and she we were able to bond. I didn’t think it was can play all she wants for a while.” going to work out because she wouldn’t listen. Playing is a special treat for dogs with such Then one day it just clicked. Now we’re insep- an important mission. “They have special toys arable. She goes with me everywhere.” they like to play with, like the tennis balls. The pair has been together for almost two Play is her treat for doing a good job. We don’t years now, sharing the same sleeping space give them food treats, that would make them (soon to be kennels), and daily routine. “It lazy, but, when we play ball with them, and feels weird when she’s not with me, like not they don’t have to wear the harness, that is a Sgt. Matthew McKee (left), dog handler with 67th Engineer Detachment, having my weapon with me. Our dogs are treat.” and Staff Sgt. Archie return to base after a mission to search for possi- actually more important than our weapons “Engineer Specialized Search Dog Teams are ble explosives in the gym on Camp Victory Jan. 9. because we can’t do our mission without them,” definitely a force multiplier for all Combat and said Broda. Combat Support operations and have proven Each dog is awarded rank in the Army sys- their ability and worth during multiple military tem, and receives special treatment by the sys- operations. The dog teams are highly-trained tem and their handler. “The dogs are always professionals and perform every mission in a one step higher in rank than their handler in superior manner. From a command perspec- case of abuse,” said Broda. “If a handler abus- tive, they are invaluable,” said Robin es the animal he’s subject to UCMJ action. If I Timmons, Brigadier General, 16th Engineer get promoted, she gets promoted as well.” Brigade (Theater Army) Commander. The dogs, usually Labrador retrievers or a Staff Sgt. Figo is returning home with Sgt. Labrador mix, are given rigorous training and Broda, and Staff Sgt. Archie will pick up where their relationship with their handlers is very she leaves off. He’s been learning the ropes important. When working they wear a special from her for the last three months and is ready harness and they know that when wearing it, to take over for his teacher. For now, the dogs it’s time to work. “They won’t work without and the handlers share the routine, and the dan- their harness,” said Broda. gerous missions, as special teams – supporting And work they do. Staff Sgt. Figo has been the Combat Forces in Multi-National Division- at the Victory complex almost two years. Baghdad.

Sgt. Daniel Broda (left), dog handler with 67th Engineer Detachment and Staff Sgt. Figo share affection before going on a 'sniffer' mission at Sgt. McKee instructs Staff Sgt. Archie to search a vehicle for possible explosive plants outside Camp Victory Jan. 9. the gym on Camp Victory. february 5, 2006 The Ivy Leaf page 9

Photo by Capt. Otis Register, Company A, BSTB commander Cleaning up the streets BAGHDAD – Soldiers from Company A, 1st Brigade Support Battalion, 1/10th Mountain Division, admired their work after using earth-moving equipment throughout December to clean up the streets in the Abu Ghreib area of western Baghdad. Before they could begin work, the area had to be searched for hazards possibly hid- den in the debris. The purpose of the clean up mission was two-fold: to reduce the number of hiding places for insurgent improvised explosive devices and to help create a cleaner and more sanitary environment for the Iraqis working and living in the area. New clinic testament to caring for Soldiers By Spc. Creighton Holub For the Soldiers like Holton, who are but we were very lucky that we were set Infantry Division doctors in Camp Taji, Combat Aviation Brigade PAO, 4th Inf. Div. on their first combat tour, they are getting up exactly where we were and that we saw the development of the new clinic FOB TAJI – The Combat Aviation on-the-job experience in a harsh environ- were as knowledgeable as we were due to during his tour of duty in the 4th Brigade’s medical personnel are standing ment. our docs and our physician assistants that Battalion, 3rd Aviation Regiment. up a new Troop Medical Clinic that has “Every doctor is a wealth of knowl- taught us.” “We have better patient care overall,” been two Operation Iraqi Freedom rota- edge,” Holton explained, “so you can The environment he is located in now said the Kingston, N.Y., native. “We have tions in the making. learn from every person that is in the clin- is less rigorous than the one Miller-Bent a better facility with a lot more privacy. The 1st Cavalry Division started the ic – whether it’s sick call, medications and experienced on his first deployment. The There’s room for each one of the battal- foundation for the clinic that is waiting on procedures – there’s always a lesson in clean, sterile, spacious work areas were ions to see their patients independently. a scheduled ribbon cutting in mid-January. everything you do in the clinic.” not available during his last deployment, There’s a lot more capacity to handle The ribbon cutting will symbolize the The medics are learning, and the com- the veteran medic said. more complicated cases: traumas and transfer of medical care from the 3rd bat veterans like Miller-Bent are spear- “Conditions were very primitive,” such. It provides a better environment for Infantry Division’s Falcon Brigade to the heading the effort of getting the Soldiers Miller-Bent said about his first deploy- the Soldiers. It’s as close as we can get to 4th Infantry Division’s Eagle brigade. into situations where they can raise their ment with the Ironhorse Division. “It was medical care at home without actually “We started operations here Dec. 29,” level of expertise. eight to nine months of living in the dirt – being there. It’s making it less austere.” said Spc. Scot Miller-Bent, a combat “We’ve got a lot of stuff we’re plan- two months without a shower. Things are The results of the work are apparent medic in Headquarters and Headquarters ning on doing,” Miller-Bent said, “but we much nicer now. I used to have to run sick even to the Soldiers who don’t see the Company, 2nd Battalion, 4th Aviation can’t do it right now – our first goal is to call out the back of my ambulance. (Now) clinic every day. Regiment. “We moved everything out get the TMC fully operational. From there the doctors have their own offices. We “You’ve got a bigger waiting room, from the old one. We had about 45 min- we can branch out into our specialty train- have screening rooms, treatment rooms, offices and more privacy for the Soldiers utes to do it before sick call. We hauled ing.” and we even have a pharmacy room all by getting treated,” said Pfc. David Hicks, everything in when we came on shift and Miller-Bent said the training for the itself. Things are incredibly nicer here.” wheeled mechanic from Erp, Calif., who then took over sick call immediately.” medics and the advanced first aid tech- The increase in size is also compli- is assigned to aviation support battalion’s The medical personnel are using the niques taught to the regular Soldier helped mented with an increase in equipment and HSC. old clinic as office space and as a storage him in OIF I. Once a Soldier qualifies in supplies, specifically in the pharmacy. Hicks was one of the first Soldiers to facility while they work on getting the the advanced techniques such as starting “It’s larger than the pharmacy we had arrive at Camp Taji and has received treat- new TMC online. IV fluids, he becomes a combat life saver. TMC 12,” said Maj. Jeffrey Hubert, the ment at both the old and the new troop “Right now we’re moving from clinic The class is about one week long and any brigade flight surgeon, in comparing the medical clinics. Hicks is also one of the to clinic and we’re taking over from 3rd Soldier is eligible for the course. Camp Taji clinic to the one in Fort Hood. Soldiers who assisted in the Hurricane Infantry Division,” said Pfc. Patricia “(In OIF I) we took a rocket-assisted The advances also include Internet Katrina relief efforts back in September. Holton, a combat medic from 105mm shell into a sleep tent and instan- connections with other Army hospitals With all the advances and experiences Headquarters Support Company, 404th taneously took about 40 casualties,” and medical specialists. the Soldiers of the Iron Eagle brigade Aviation Support Battalion. “We have a Miller explained. “We only had four “With the technology in the TMC, we bring to the table, the Army is providing a task in front of us: We have to organize medics on scene. Combat Life Savers can evaluate the patient better,” Hubert necessary combat multiplier to the the pharmacology and try to get the new came and really saved the day. The said. “Beforehand, you would have to Soldiers. clinic up and running. It’s just a matter of Combat Army Surgical Hospital was only evacuate somebody to have them evaluat- “Medical care is one of the things you working out all the glitches and working about five minutes away by ground evacu- ed.” can’t skimp on,” Wolf said. “I think this as a team.” ation. It was a bad thing that happened, Capt. David Wolf, one of the last 3rd TMC is testament to that.” Page 10 The Ivy Leaf february 5, 2006 Joint mission touches lives of village residents U.S. Soldiers and Iraqi Army doctor provide medical assistance, toys to local residents Story and photos by Spc. C. Terrell Turner 4th Inf. Div. PAO he residents in Aqurquf hundred people and we got a hun- (Agargoof), a small village dred. During the summer, when its in the Abu Ghreib area of warmer, we’ve had over a thousand Baghdad, recently received people show up. This is a holiday Tmedical assistance from Soldiers in time and not a lot of people are in the 448th Civil Affairs Battalion and the area.” the 2nd Battalion, 22nd Infantry Each patient received an evalua- Regiment during a joint civilian tion, treatment, as-needed medicine medical assistance project. and humanitarian assistance items, Using the school as a makeshift donated by various organizations. field clinic, the 448th CAB and “Our mission is to provide med- “Triple Deuce” secured the area ical assistance to the local populace, before announcing, via loud speaker, focusing on the youth,” said Maj. the opportunity for local residents to Gustavus Walters, team leader, receive health care as well as much- Company A, 448th CAB. “We try to needed blankets, shoes and school do these as often as possible. These supplies. small operations yield high-impact More than 60 Soldiers worked results, and it’s a good way to let the together as dozens of residents and people know we’re here to help. To their children came to receive help them it means a lot.” from the medics and doctors on loca- The Iraqis received everything tion to assist those in need. from medicine and blankets to shoes The process began with medics, and wheelchairs. assisted by translators, assessing the “We are very happy, and we thank patients’ status. them for their aid,” said one woman, “A lot of these local areas are not who was helped by the doctors. in close proximity to a hospital,” In a display of cooperation, an pointed out Capt. Mark Rieves, com- Iraqi doctor participated in seeing mander, Company D, 2-22nd Inf. and treating patients at the civilian Reg. “Normally we patrol areas and medical assistance project. search for anti-Iraqi forces, then we “I like the army,” said 1st Lt. Dr. go to people’s houses and farms and Abd Ali Shannan, a doctor with 3rd see what kinds of help they need, Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division. “I what they grow, basically their agri- was a military doctor under Saddam cultural logistics.” as well. This is a happy day for me. The 2-22nd Inf. Reg. provided Every day I work and give support to security for the operation and the the people makes me happy.” 448th selected an ideal location for As supplies began to run low, the the event. troops ended the event and made “We came here before and spoke sure the remaining patients in the to the headmaster and teachers to get school compound were taken care of permission to do this,” said Maj. with medicine and blankets before Kathy Champion, company com- they departed the area. mander, Company A, 448th CAB. “I love this,” said Sgt. Cory “We work with units who are willing Smith, senior line medic, Company 1st Lt. Dr. Abd Ali Shannan (left), a doctor with 3rd Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division, sees to do this to find a good location for D, 2-22nd Inf. Reg. “This is the part patients with Maj. Eric Elgin, battalion surgeon, 2-22nd Inf., during a civilian medical assis- them. Hopefully, in the future, Iraqis of the job I like. In Afghanistan, they tance project in the Abu Ghreib area of Baghdad. will do all these (MEDCAPS). We really didn’t have access to medicine can provide security while they do as much as here in Iraq. This is my the rest.” first (MEDCAP) here, and it went “The numbers we’ve received pretty smooth. We gave a lot of vita- today are very good,” Champion mins out today and there seemed to said. “We were hoping for about one be a lot of upset stomachs.”

1st Lt. Dr. Abd Ali Shannan (center), a doctor with 3rd Bde, 6th Iraqi Army Division, and Maj. Eric Elgin, battalion surgeon, HHC, 2-22nd Sgt. Frank Rodriguez, truck driver, Company E, 2-22nd Infantry, hands out school supplies Infantry, see a young patient during a civilian medical assistance project and toys to local children during the civilian medical assistance project outside Baghdad. to a village in the Abu Ghreib area of Baghdad. Approximately 100 peo- Soldiers also provided medical evaluations and medications to residents. ple were evaluated and given medication as needed. february 5, 2006 The Ivy Leaf page 11 Iraqi army soldiers learn from military transition teams Story and photo by Spc. Karl Johnson 363rd MPAD MAHMUDIYAH, Iraq – The coalition mission with the high- est expectations, the greatest vis- ibility and the most responsibili- ty is that of the Military Transition Teams. The MiTT’s challenging task is to prepare the young Iraqi army to take over the job of securing its own coun- try. The Soldiers are also keenly aware that the American public watches their progress with interest and hope since a well- trained, well-run Iraqi army is necessary to the success of Iraq. In Mahmudiyah, a city south of Baghdad, training is taking shape. “It’s a very challenging mis- sion, but the more we stay with the Iraqi army, the better they become,” said Staff Sgt. Arturo Delagarza, MiTT 2, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Three recent graduates of the first Iraqi Primary Leadership Development Course discuss tactics during a training exercise. The lead- Division. “That way they can ership course is part of an ongoing effort to bolster the Iraqi non-commissioned officer corps. transition to taking over their them to do.” and clearing rooms, close-quar- United States has such a profes- time in February, they will take area, and we can shift to another There will continue to be ters marksmanship and basic sional Army, said Hartwig. “We over the school,” said Seimet. location or possibly even out.” challenges facing both the MiTT movement formations.” have an NCO Corps, and we’re The difference in the level of The process of preparing the and the Iraqi “Any support trying to build theirs.” responsibility in the NCO Corps, Iraqi army for the eventual army, but togeth- that we provide One of the biggest steps taken from the former Iraqi army to turnover is one that requires the er they’ve shown “My hope is that I these guys, they to help build the Iraqi army the current one, is a significant dedication of both Iraqi and the ability to work myself out of a seem to have an NCO Corps is the establishment obstacle the Iraqis are working American forces. overcome adver- open ear to what of the first Primary Leadership to overcome. “They know we’re not here to sity. job. I would like to we’re saying,” Development Course. According to Seimet, his stu- take over,” Delagarza said. “They con- go down to the Iraqi he said. “I think “We went over troop-leading dents impressed him with their “We’re here to help build, and tinue to shadow Army compound and they have a lot procedures, how to do inspec- ability and eagerness to learn they’re working toward taking us, and hopefully they tell me they’ve of respect for tions, military values, officer and new information and then apply over for themselves.” that will begin to got everything under our Army.” NCO relationships, map reading, it in tactical situations. With the To see the evidence of the bolster their con- “I’m finding patrols and convoy operations,” Iraqi army making progress in its MiTT’s progress, you don’t have fidence,” said control.” out that a lot of said Staff Sgt. Justin Seimet, 2nd tactical and professional devel- to look very far. The Iraqi army Delagarza. Capt. John Stroh them have been BCT MiTT platoon Sgt. and IA opment almost every day, it’s not conducts raids, patrols and oper- Along with Military Transition Team two, in the army for PLDC instructor. hard to look forward to what the ates traffic control points on their partnered mis- 2nd Brigade Combat Team, a long time, and In January 2005, the course future might hold. “My hope is 101st Airborne Div., own now, said Delagarza. These sions, the MiTT they’ve got graduated its’ first students. that I work myself out of a job,” examples of the ever-improving provides other some great Those graduates are just the said Stroh. “I would like to go Iraqi army are reasons for hope types of training ideas, said beginning of the professional down to the Iraqi army com- and excitement, he said. And yet, to the Iraqi army to help with Capt. John Stroh, MiTT 2, 2nd development plan under way for pound and they tell me they’ve there is still much that remains their overall development. BCT, 101st Airborne Div. the Iraqi army. For two weeks got everything under control.” to be accomplished. They’ve “We’ve done a lot of tactical One thing the experienced following their graduation, those With the continued dedication shown a lot of progress, training with these guys,” said Iraqi soldiers cannot bring with first PLDC students received the of the MiTT Soldiers and the Delagarza observed. “They’re Capt. Ryan Hartwig, officer in them is the benefits of a strong training necessary to begin hard work of their Iraqi counter- trying to get into the professional charge, MiTT 2, 2nd BCT, 101st NCO Corps, since it virtually did teaching the course themselves. parts, that goal can become a mode, and that’s what we need Airborne Division, “like entering not exist. There is a reason the “We hope that starting some reality.

Hope grows for an Iraqi community with opening of food distribution center Story and photo by Pfc. Michael A. Molinaro tion workers rebuilt the structures, and Iraqi soldiers 2nd BCT PAO, 4th Inf. Div. secured the area so the workers were safe from terror- DIYARAH, Iraq – Residents of Diyarah celebrated ist threat. The buildings were destroyed during the ini- the opening of a food distribution center here Jan. 18. tial portion of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Warlords and The center enables residents to buy grain, produce gang members then used the buildings to organize and other items at low prices through a program creat- criminal activities until the Iraqi army planted itself in ed by the Iraqi government. the town, said Capt. Carlos Badillo, information offi- “We hope this is the beginning of many openings cer, 2-8 Inf. and celebrations for us,” said Saleh Hasen Alwan, the The town council feels safe because of the presence local imam. “The people of this area are in need of of the Iraqi army, Simms said. “They are not afraid of something like this.” the insurgents.” The town council makes sure the voices of its peo- New bathrooms, ceilings, floors and lighting fix- ple are heard, said Capt. Ben Simms, commander, tures were installed for more than 40 local nationals Company D, 2nd Battalion, 8th Infantry Regiment, who will work at the center. Capt. Ben Simms (left), commander, Company D, 2nd 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division. “This is a total nationwide effort,” said Badillo. Battalion, 8th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Bde Combat Team, 4th “Diyarah is a great success because of the town coun- “You have the big government helping a small com- Infantry Division; Saleh Husen Alwan (center), Diyarah cil’s commitment to its people.” munity, and in turn the small community government iman; and Iraqi Capt. Majed Hady Al-Shemevy, commander, The project was a total community effort as local helping its people. It proves the Iraqi government is 4th Company, 2nd Battalion, 4th Bde, 8th Iraqi Army Div., politicians acquired funding for the project, construc- working.” officially open the new food distribution center Jan. 18. Page 12 The Ivy Leaf february 5, 2006 Corps of Engineers Update Al Basheer residents celebrate water projects By Suzanne Fournier water for these village residents is Gulf Region Southern District a water treatment facility, currently U.S. Army Corps of Engineers under construction, to provide BASE CAMP ADDER, Iraq – clean, potable water to villagers for Clean, potable drinking water soon the first time in their lives. The will be available to more than 200 water treatment project includes families living in small communi- electric-power generators, pumps, ties from Al Basheer to Immam and water filter treatment and Akare in Wassit Province, just water storage units. southeast of Baghdad. The U.S. This water system will draw Army Corps of Engineers built a water out of a nearby dirt canal fed water pipe system to bring water to by the Tigris River, treat and filter families that have never had run- the water, and pump it through the ning water in their villages, much water pipes that now connect to less in their homes. The water net- homes. work project cost $172,000 and The treatment facility is expect- was finished this past October. The ed to be complete by the end of second step toward improving March and will cost $250,000. Zakho Military Academy nearing completion By Claude McKinney construction of new cadet living Gulf Region North barracks, a headquarters building, Photo by Polli Barnes Keller, Gulf Region North U.S. Army Corps of Engineers security wall, potable water treat- Children in northern Iraq are happy to receive a special delivery from Lana Aziz. Aziz started ZAKHO, Iraq – In northern ment plant, packaged waste treat- collecting donations of school supplies, shoes and toys in 2002 to distribute to Iraqi school- children after seeing that the children lacked proper shoes for the cold environment. Iraq, there is a school under recon- ment plant, a 400-meter track and a struction that may have a greater soccer field. Other items were an impact on the future of Iraq than obstacle course, parade field with Donated school supplies, shoes any other reconstruction effort. stadium lighting, sanitary sewer The school is Zakho Military system, and a new water supply Academy. and distribution system. distributed to Iraqi schoolchildren As important as oil, electricity, Phase II includes construction By Polli Barnes Keller was collecting shoes. Word spread quickly and water, health care, and primary of a new gymnasium, and the Gulf Region North before she knew it, shoes came rolling in. education are to Iraq’s future, edu- design and implementation of a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Church groups from the States, Aziz’s family, cating those already identified to be new power generation and distribu- MOSUL, Iraq – After years of tyranny and and friends of friends rose to the challenge and the future leaders of Iraq will pro- tion system. This phase also war, the children of Iraq have almost nothing collected approximately 150 pairs of shoes, vide direction in the same manner includes a new military urban war- and are very grateful for each gift they receive. which Aziz distributed in Dahuk, Erbil, and as a rudder steers a large ship. fare training facility, grenade-train- Lana Aziz, an Iraqi citizen and junior engineer Sulaymaniyah. The collection effort was a huge Zakho Military Academy is one of ing field, and an improved firing for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, coordi- success and well received by those in need. Iraq’s two national military officer range, as well as the construction of nates the collection and distribution of shoes Now, almost seven months later, packages academies and is equivalent to the the new cadet weapons training and school supplies for Iraqi children. With each again began arriving addressed to Aziz. She U.S. Army’s Military Academy at building. gift she gives to a needy child, she also gives opened the boxes and was happily surprised to West Point. “We are nearing completion of joy and hope to their lives. find not only shoes for the children, but school “As we live and work on site, this project. And it is gratifying to Through her childhood, Aziz watched as supplies and toys, as well. Aziz’s response to together with the cadets, it is inter- know that my efforts here may be American organizations sent clothing and items the unexpected generosity was, “If they send it, esting to watch first hand how anx- the means to growing a strong lead- to local churches in her community. I will deliver it!” ious and appreciative they are for ership base for the future of Iraq,” She watched as the goods were distributed Early in January, she and Lt. Col. Greg us to complete projects providing said Adekanbi. and noticed some didn’t make it to the families Gunter, USACE Gulf Region North Deputy them new facilities,” said Joshua When the construction of the 19 that needed it the most. Dismayed at the lack of Commander, traveled to two schools located in Adekanbi, U.S. Army Corps of new buildings and other facilities is support for American generosity and the misdi- Dohuk and delivered the goods. Engineers, Gulf Region North proj- complete, the school will have the rection of goods, Aziz decided if she could, she One donor, the second grade class at William ect engineer. capacity to train 500 cadets. They would do something about it. Penn School in Utah, received photographs of Workers implemented the whole will graduate with bachelors While on assignment in the local villages, their delivered donated goods. Their teacher of the academy reconstruction proj- degrees aligned closely to many in she noticed the children lacked proper shoes for commented, “My students and I were ecstatic ect in two phases. Phase I included the engineering field. the cold environment. This gave her the idea to when we put your photos on the big screen and collect shoes for the needy and make sure they saw our red Christmas houses! Seriously ... we Kirkuk is getting an electrical boost were distributed to those who truly needed went crazy! What a joy it was to actually see them. In July 2005, Aziz put the word out our school supplies and cards in the hands of By Polli Barnes Keller definitely needs more power for all through co-workers, friends and family that she those beautiful Iraqi children!” Gulf Region North kinds of consumption. Examples U.S. Army Corps of Engineers of these needs are: domestic use, MOSUL, Iraq – The city of industrial use, sewer services, and Northern Iraq primary school construction complete Kirkuk will soon benefit from the water. This feeder cable is part of By Claude McKinney ground up. construction of the Kirkuk Main the infrastructure that will fulfill Gulf Region North A year in the making, it is now complete and Substation 11 kilovolt feeder cable. these needs.” U.S. Army Corps of Engineers ready to house 36 teachers and about 825 stu- This $123,000 project will consist Approximately 1.5 million peo- DAHUK, Iraq – Within a community, the dents. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers had of the installation of 1500 meters of ple live in the Kirkuk area. The activities occurring in two specialized types of contract over watch of this project. 11 KV underground feeder cable to installation of this cable will pro- buildings hold great sway and influence for the “The Dahuk Resident Office has managed the Kirkuk Substation in the Almas vide a more reliable electricity sup- residents of the community - they are schools and several different types of projects throughout Quarter. This cable will connect ply. religious structures. Because of the influence a Northern Iraq, but the school construction and the substation to a distribution net- Available generating capacity school can have on the current and future society, renovations are special ... they make you smile. work. has increased significantly since it is important to the reconstruction of Iraq to pro- I’ve never seen children so excited to go to Saman Mosa, the U.S. Army the immediate post war period vide sound lasting facilities that will positively school,” said Derek Walker, project engineer. Corps of Engineers project manag- despite the challenges of a poorly influence the future of this country for years to “You can see the future of not just the country, er said, “The Kirkuk main substa- maintained infrastructure, terrorists come. but perhaps the world, in the happiness of the tion is supplying power to an targeting the distribution network, The Kovak Primary School in the Dahuk faces of these children who long to enter them. I expanding community in down- and limited amounts of appropriate District is one of those buildings. This 12-class- can honestly say I know we’ve made a difference town Kirkuk. An expanding city fuels. room school was newly constructed from the in their lives,” he said. february 5, 2006 The Ivy Leaf page 13 3-6 Field Artillery conducts combined traffic control point operations with Iraqi army Story and photo by 2nd Lt. Jason Hawkins Battery, 3-6 FA. “I was very impressed with 3-6 FA unit public affairs representative how quickly and professionally the Iraqi forces BAGHDAD – As part of continuing effort executed the operation,” said Baker. to solidify and enhance the working relation- Soldiers from both nations mingled togeth- ship and camaraderie between Iraqi and U.S. er during the mission, as Soldiers always do. “I forces, a platoon from the 3rd Brigade, 6th am always amazed at how quickly Soldiers of Iraqi Army Division started conducting com- different languages and cultures can make bined traffic control point operations with friends with just a cigarette and a hand shake, Soldiers from 10th Mountain Division’s 3rd said Staff Sgt. James Bennett, 3-6 FA team Battalion, 6th Field Artillery in the Abu Ghraib chief. area in December. Although the Iraqi platoon did not discover “This is just one of many joint operations any weapons or contraband during their that are taking place across Baghdad as the searches, they considered this operation a suc- Soldiers from 3rd Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division stop a vehicle in the Abu Iraqi army assumes responsibility for the safe- cess. Bennett said the operation was a “pre- Ghraib area of western Baghdad Dec. 31 during joint traffic control point ty and security of the populace,” said Capt. ventative measure that gives a sense of well- operations between Soldiers from 3rd Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division and James Baker, commander, Headquarters being to the citizens of the area.” 1/10th Mountain Division’s 3rd Battalion, 6th Field Artillery. Fires Brigade Soldiers design new patch to reflect field artillery mis-

Story and photo by homage to the history of field had originally turned in. His non- Spc. Allison Churchill artillery. As Soldiers continue to commissioned officer-in-charge, Fires Bde. PAO, 4th Inf. Div. turning in design ideas, Ward and Master Sgt. Trevor Jones, gave Soldiers in Fires Brigade, 4th Canuela are assisting by making him time to work on his designs, Infantry Division, have an oppor- suggestions to the artists. Cortez said, because Jones noticed tunity to participate in Army histo- For some Soldiers, the design and appreciated how sincerely ry. The Soldiers contest is quite per- interested he is in competing. have been asked sonal. Spc. Cortez also found a brother artist to design a new “We have cross can- Brandon Cortez, in Master Sgt. Rodney Byus. patch for the nons on everything. signal support Byus has been in Fires Bde. brigade, which systems specialist, since August, but said he previ- will break from It’s time to change has been with the ously designed coins for the the division upon things up a bit.” Army for eight artillery heavy 2nd Infantry its return to Fort Spc. Brandon Cortez years and is anx- Division and wanted to have a Hood at the con- signal support systems spe- ious to have a say hand in the new fires patch design. clusion of the cialist, Fires Brigade in what design he Both Byus and Cortez said they current deploy- will be wearing believe the future Fires Brigades ment. on his shoulder should have a tab similar to the “We need our own unit identifi- after this deployment. While he “Airborne” and “Ranger” tabs. cation,” said Capt. William Ward, has been a part of the unit as a Soldiers have until March 15 to chemical officer, Fires Bde. field artillery asset, he has noticed turn in final designs. The Fires The call for designs went out some patches that he felt could use Bde. commander, Col. Allen last November, said Ward. The improvement, he said. Batschelet, and Canuela, will then Soldiers weren’t given any “We have cross cannons on decide on which design to present specifics, just that the patch everything,” said Cortez. “It’s to a board at Fort Sill, Okla., for a should reflect the field artillery time to change things up a bit.” final decision. Fires Bde. stood up mission of providing indirect fire Cortez said he started working on June 16. Until that point, it had support in theater operations. on patch ideas before deployment been known as DIVARTY, since it Capt. William Ward, chemical officer, Fires Brigade, 4th Infantry Command Sgt. Maj. Gilbert but didn’t hear anything further was comprised of all of 4th Inf. Division, looks over various patch designs submitted by Canuela, Fires Bde., said he would about the competition. When he Div.’s artillery assets. When the Soldiers. The Fires Brigade will be separating from the division like to see the designs fit the army learned that designs were still division switched to the modular after the current deployment and will need its own patch. Ward combat uniform, represent the being accepted in country, he format, several artillery assets is supervising a project allowing Soldiers to turn in drawings for future of the Army, and also pay started reworking the patches he were reassigned to other brigades. the new patch of the Army's first Fires Brigade.

Working the flight line Sgt. Prettis Young, of Company E, 2nd Battalion, 4th Aviation Regiment, prepares to refuel a CH-47D A 4th Infantry Chinook helicopter Division Combat shortly after it landed Aviation Brigade CH- at Camp Taji, Iraq. The 47D Chinook travels aircraft carried across the flightline Soldiers from the at Camp Taji on Dec. brigade's second 19. The aircraft trans- force package. ported Soldiers in the brigade's second force package for Camp Buehring, Kuwait. Photos by Sgt. 1st Class Reginald Rogers, Combat Aviation Brigade PAO Page 14 The Ivy Leaf february 5, 2006 Gonzales has a firm grip on weighty issues Story and photo by Denise Calabria Gonzales said he was fortunate in adjusting easily to much security to apply to a situation can be a challenge Gulf Region Divisions Baghdad’s sizzling summer temperatures, being a “son” in itself. His goal was to “strike a balance between keep- U.S. Army Corps of Engineers of the desert-like state of Nevada. ing FOB people safe – and allowing them the flexibility BAGHDAD – A phrase the U.S. Army often uses Gonzales came to Baghdad to accommodate a request to do their job.” when rating an exceptional leader is, “Give this officer made of him by Maj. Gen. Chip Long, then Director of “The most difficult challenge – our number one issue the heavy lifting; s/he will get the job done.” On several PCO, to facilitate the transition between PCO and GRD. – is trying to keep the level of security while opening up levels, this statement applies to Col. Frank Gonzales, In honoring that request, the Nevada Army National the organizational structure and facilities to create a rela- who has been on assign- Guard member sacrificed tionship with the Iraqis,” he said. “The biggest (on- ment in Baghdad since an executive position in going) challenge we have for the next few years is transi- August. Upon his arrival the civilian world and a tioning everything over to the Iraqis.” here, Gonzales assumed promotion to brigadier Despite the obvious importance of maintaining tight the role of Gulf Region general in his previous security in a war zone, Gonzales is proud that he was the Division Project and military capacity. Despite primary mover in getting the merger between PCO and Contracting Office Chief those obvious sacrifices, GRD completed. Changing an organization’s structure is of Staff and Security in the he does not appear to no a simple assignment, Gonzales said. International Zone forward regret his decision. “You have to do it right, so it’s transparent to the operating base, a position “This is (the) stuff of a Ambassador, the Multi-National Forces-Iraq, and the requiring a high degree of lifetime, that you won’t be reconstruction effort,” he said. “You have to synergize “people” skills and diplo- able to do again. People with all of the reductions in staff … the reductions in the macy, as well as solid here are making a differ- military footprint ... so that every dollar spent is targeted Army know-how. Col. Frank Gonzales, Chief of Staff and Security for ence. Some people have to helping the Iraqi people.” Gulf Region Division Project and Contracting office, Gonzales’ abilities in to and some people want Gonzales grew up in the Reno/Sparks area of Nevada, takes a break from his workout during deployment to balancing significant and Baghdad. Gonzales has held the Nevada state record to. I want to do this,” said and claims Carson City as his official Home of Record. “weighty” issues, carries for Class I Bench Press in the World's Association of Gonzales. “That makes a He currently calls Las Vegas home. As a civilian back in into virtually every suc- Benchers and Dead Lifters competition since 2003. big difference.” his home state, Gonzales will be returning at the end of cessful venture he under- As PCO Chief of January 2006 to his responsibility as the Operations takes. No run-of-the mill PT program for this Colonel. Security, Gonzales’ efforts have made a real difference Executive for Nevada Power Company. In that role, he is Gonzales began serious weight lifting in his late 30s to for Soldiers. He developed an evaluation system to responsible for the transmission and distribution of the maintain military fitness, but went above and beyond to check under vehicles, thereby reducing insurgency energy that powers the lights of the rapidly growing city become an international competitor. Gonzales qualified threats, and also handled the re-issuance of Security of Las Vegas. When asked where he would like to be to participate in the 2003 World’s Association of Identification Cards to all personnel (approximately five years from now, Gonzales mentions that he would Benchers and Dead Lifters and still holds his state’s 2,200) at the Forward Operating Base. like to visit a reconstructed Iraq. record since 2003 in Class I Bench Press. In the 2003 In addition, Gonzales oversaw the re-inspection of all “I do hope to get back (here),” he said. WABDL world’s competition, he finished third in the 40- Iraqi FOB employees and the re-issuance of their security He has served 28 years in the military – first as an 46 age group with a bench press of 440. Weight lifting is cards, bringing about an increase in the overall security enlisted Soldier, then climbing through officer ranks. still one of his primary tools for maintaining fitness. level. As Iraqis comprise half of the static guard force, Gonzales achieved the rank of colonel at the age of 37 “The interesting thing about power lifting is that any- maintaining a balance between security, capacity devel- and has been a “full bird” (Army slang for the rank of one can do it, no matter what the age or body composi- opment, and training for the Iraqis often walks a fine line, colonel) for the past eight years. The married father of tion,” noted Gonzales. “A weight training program, along Gonzalez observed. three must now focus his attention in another direction. with cardio, can significantly increase your performance “After all,” Gonzales says, “these (Iraqi) guards carry He recently received Senate confirmation for his promo- in any thing you do. One of the greatest outcomes is loaded AK-47s.” tion to general officer. Now, he waits for a slot to open increased strength, stronger bones, and the ability to He also was responsible for turning control of the up at the brigadier general level … and the opportunity to avoid injuries. And most of all (it results in) increased Freedom Building in the GRD/PCO compound over to assume even weightier responsibilities. And maybe quality of life.” the Iraqis. According to Gonzales, knowing just how another WABDL record to go along with that star. success, CONTINUED FROM PG. 7 The main event was a formal ceremony held in the multi-purpose Military and USAID team up to building at the center of the compound. Numerous community, reli- gious and security leaders expounded on the triumphs of the force. They lauded Qais for his leadership and vision and voiced their sup- help small businesses in Iraq port for his continued tenure. As one of the keynote speakers, Tully Story and photo by John Swartzbaugh, become a more respected board member or leader of remarked on the peaceful national government elections. He said Public Relations Manager the association. the election was very successful in large part because the police of Baghdad – Military civil affairs and the USAID “The training programs are great and hard to find the Babil Province, in coordination with the Iraqi army, protected IZDIHAR project recently teamed up in Baghdad to inside Iraq,” said Mahmood Shakir from the Al- the polling sites, allowing the people of Babil to exercise their right provide two days of training in financial planning Karradah district. to vote. and business association management to 18 small “It has helped me a lot. It will help me establish “The police are interested in helping the people of Iraq, they are business owners from the Al-Rasheed and Al- our chamber in Al-Karradah.” the future for Iraq,” Tully said. “They bring security and security Karradah chambers of commerce Dec. 21. “We are excited to be working with the civil-mil- leads to stability which leads to investment, tourism, and jobs which The training was designed to build capacity with- itary operations team to strengthen the business ultimately leads to prosperity and a wealthy Iraq.” Tully con- in the local chambers and their business members so management skills of small business owners,” stat- cluded with a request for the continued support of the Iraqi Police. they can better understand and apply business, man- ed Khalid Al-Naif, head of USAID’s IZDIHAR “Remember, a free and democratic Iraq requires a strong, inde- agement and financial planning skills in order to project. “The desire of the businesspeople to gain pendent and honorable police force, please support the police,” expand their organizations and create new jobs. new knowledge and skills bodes well for the future Tully said. Supporting Tully’s statements, Muraski said he believes “We are working hard to help these chambers of of Iraq’s private sector.” the police force truly has the security of the people at the heart of its commerce become vibrant, functional organiza- “Before, we were so limited in our relationships mission. tions,” said Major Carlos Molina, a civil-military with the international community,” noted Khalid Al- “The people of the Babil Province must believe in the integrity operations economic development officer from the Jumaily, chairman of the Al-Rasheed Chamber of and effectiveness of the police force, and by the show of support of 4th Brigade Combat Team of the 3rd Infantry Commerce. “Today we are free to move forward the local leaders and citizens at the IP day ceremony, they are well Division. “The IZDIHAR project is a perfect fit for and develop our association through programs like on their way,” Muraski said. our needs as it is focused on growing the private sec- this one. Now we are like students and we need Hasim Asseheif, the head instructor at the academy, spoke of tor in Iraq and already provides excellent training more information.” how well trained the force was, and how it was through their efforts for small businesses in a number of key areas.” According to Maj. Molina, the military’s partner- that the province is a safer place to live. Sheik Amed, a local com- The first day of training introduced the small ship with the IZDIHAR project is just the start of munity leader, thanked the Iraqi Police and security forces for their business owners to accounting techniques and dis- support that will help build the capacity of the local efforts. He emphasized that the police force is an organization that cussed cash flow, budgeting and an organization’s chambers. is there for the people and he is confident the province will remain balance sheet. The second day featured training in “We definitely will be providing more training a secure area. The formal portion of the ceremony was concluded how to build a business association, how to generate programs,” he said, “and we are working with IZDI- with a cake cutting, gifts to distinguished guests and entertainment money to run the association, how to select issues to HAR to bring microfinance loans to these small by local artists, followed by a luncheon. advocate on behalf of the members, and how to businesses as well.” february 5, 2006 The Ivy Leaf page 15 Siblings in Service By Sgt. Kristin Kemplin Guard, arrived at Camp Liberty at the 363rd MPAD beginning of last year. Maj. Hall, S-2 CAMP LIBERTY – There are officer-in-charge for 48th Brigade benefits to serving in the military with Combat Team, deployed to Camp a higher ranking sibling. But, for the Stryker in June 2005. The two have Hall sisters, the benefits of rank are not had many opportunities to see overshadowed by the benefits of each other because of the high op being the oldest. tempo, Major Hall recalled. “She can run but she can’t hide. I But when Maj. Hall, now working can find her and still boss her at Camp Tahlil, was scheduled to around,” said Maj. Teresa Hall joking- attend a meeting in the area in ly. Her younger sister, Staff Sgt. January she contacted her sister to Anna Hall, nods in agreement. arrange a visit. “She says that a lot and believe “It doesn’t hurt to have a supply me it’s true,” said Staff Sgt. Hall. sergeant sister because she can help “She forgets who used to make her get me travel arrangements and billet- sandwiches.” ing for the visit,” said Maj. Hall. “I The two sisters, deployed to differ- might be a little biased but she might ent camps, had a rare opportunity to be the best supply sergeant in the visit Jan. 13, a few weeks prior to whole freakin’ Army.” Staff Sgt. Hall’s redeployment to the Having my sister here made my states. Sitting in the Camp Liberty first deployment easier to cope with, division dining facility for dinner, the said Staff Sgt. Hall. two reminisced about the seven- Although they will part ways in month overlap of their deployment to the coming weeks, the sisters will Photo courtesy of the Hall sisters Staff Sgt. Anna Hall, supply sergeant for 126th Military Police Company, with her older sis- Iraq. Staff Sgt. Hall, supply sergeant continue to communicate as they ter Maj. Teresa Hall, S-2 for 48th BCT, at Camp Liberty in January. The sisters had a rare for the 126th Military Police have for the last seven months, by opportunity to visit with each other weeks before Staff Sgt. hall was due to return to the Company, New Mexico National email and occasional phone calls. States after completion of her year-long deployment. Walker Brothers reunite in Baghdad, request to serve deployment together Pfc. Jason Dangel But the tie between the brothers is exceptionally “I had a ton of questions before I got here,” Marquis 4th BCT, 4th Inf. Div. PAO strong. said, “and some of the information that he gave me, I BAGHDAD – As the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th “When we were growing up, it was just basically went ahead and passed on to my battle buddies.” Infantry Division assumes command from 3rd Infantry (just) us brothers, and we didn't see much of our cousins Taries took every opportunity to help his brother out Division, one “Vanguard” Soldier made a request to stay or anything,” he said. “If I were able to stay and change with any questions he had about his deployment. “I in Baghdad. over to his unit, our kids would be growing up right wanted to pass my knowledge onto him,” he said. “I After completing a year-long deployment in support of around each other.” spent a whole year out here, and I figured I could tell him Operation Iraqi Freedom, Spc. Taries Walker wants to His brother, 23-year-old Spc. Marquis Walker, is a everything I know before he got here.” remain another year. His reason is the reason that most radio and communications specialist assigned to the “I was a lot more ready to go (back home to the Soldiers are anxious to leave Iraq -- family. 704th Forward Support Battalion, 4th Brigade Combat states) before he got here,” Taries said. “I mean, I want to The 20-year-old medic, assigned to the 3rd Infantry Team, 4th Infantry Division. Marquis arrived at FOB go home to my family, but I kind of feel like if I left, I Division’s 1st Battalion, 76th Field Artillery Regiment, Union three days before Christmas, where he was greeted would be abandoning him.” 4th Brigade Combat Team, made the request after learn- by members of his brother's unit. As much as Marquis would like Taries to stay, he said ing that his older brother's unit would be relieving his Marquis, a native of Thomaston, Ga., recalls that he he believes his brother deserves to go home and be with battalion at Forward Operating Base Union in the sent emails to his brother virtually everyday from Fort his family. "He's been over here a year, and no matter International Zone. Hood, Texas, until his own unit departed for Kuwait Dec. how much I feel like I'm the big brother, he has the expe- Taries, a native of Las Vegas, Nev., knows that if his 4. He didn’t realize that within the a few weeks he rience,” Marquis said. request is approved, it will be a huge test for his family would be reunited with Taries in Baghdad. As Taries' awaits word on whether his request will be back home. Taries and wife, Shantell, were married A former Marine, Marquis says he felt it was impor- approved, both brothers agree upon one thing: “We are before he left for Iraq in Jan. 2004. He also has a 2-year tant to stay in close touch with his younger brother in family and everything, but at the same time, we're old daughter, Saniya. Iraq about how the deployment was going. Soldiers,” they agreed. “We have a job to do.” Village dedicates new pump Soldiers share their thoughts Story courtesy of 1st BCT PAO, 4th Inf. Div. TAJI, Iraq – The village of Muzerfa dedi- What do you plan to do for your spouse/ cated a new irrigation pump symbolizing the cooperation between the citizens of Iraq and significant other to celebrate Valentine’s Day? Coalition Forces Jan. 19. Lt. Col. John Cross, the commander of 1st Special Troops Battalion, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division met with local leaders to dedicate the irrigation pump that will service the village and nearby farm fields. “It went real well. I met Sheik Maghood and 30 men from the village related to him,” said Cross. “We turned it (the pump) on and we got water.” After the dedication, the Soldiers from 1st “I’m going to send my wife a STB and the local citizens enjoyed a banquet card, dangly earrings, because featuring local cuisine and discussed issues of “Send my kids cards and lots of those are the ones she likes, mutual interest for two hours. chocalates to make them really hyper “Meet my wife and daughter in San and send her flowers that will “They gave us a promise of lots of cooper- for my ex-husband,” said Sgt. 1st Antonio and take her (my wife) to the get there on Valentine’s Day,” ation,” Cross added. Class Shauna Patterson, S-1 Hemisphere restaurant,” said Spc. Ariel said Sgt. Enrique Collazo, This is an example of what lies ahead for noncommissioned officer-in-charge Class, network specialist with Fires TOC operations sergeant for the new Iraq, he added, Iraqi citizens cooperat- for Fires Brigade, 4th Inf. Div. Brigade, 4th Inf. Div. Fires Brigade, 4th Inf. Div. ing with each other and enjoying a safe and secure environment. Page 16 The Ivy Leaf february 5, 2006 First in a series on the 27 articles of T.E. Lawrence By Maj. Derrill Guidry “The following notes have been OPSEC Manager, expressed in commandment form for greater clarity and to save words. They 4th Inf. Div. G7 IO are, however, only my personal conclu- The 27 Articles Published by T.E. sions, arrived at gradually while I worked Lawrence, from The Arab Bulletin, Aug. in the Hejaz and now put on paper as 20, 1917, are essentially the operating stalking horses for beginners in the Arab concept of T.E. Lawrence who led the armies. They are meant to apply only to Arab revolt in 1917-1918. Bedu; townspeople or Syrians require I think they are useful for two reasons. totally different treatment. They are of Lawrence was a Westerner (Brit) and pos- course not suitable to any other person's sessed the same cultural baggage we do, need, or applicable unchanged in any which he had to overcome in dealing with particular situation. Handling Hejaz the Arabs. Arabs is an art, not a science, with Secondly, and I think very useful for us exceptions and no obvious rules. At the in our future endeavor, are the insights he same time we have a great chance there; provides regarding the tribes, clans and the Sherif trusts us, and has given us the sheiks that are more important with the position (towards his Government) which Sunni than was the case with the south the Germans wanted to win in Turkey. If with the Shia, where imams and mosques we are tactful, we can at once retain his dominated the community more so than goodwill and carry out our job, but to did the sheiks, etc. succeed we have got to put into it all the Useful, also, I think, are the tips on interest and skill we possess. tactics and the Arab approach to warfare, 1. Go easy for the first few weeks. A which are important in framing our per- bad start is difficult to atone for, and the spective on what we can expect from the Arabs form their judgments on externals police and ICDC we train and recruit. that we ignore. When you have reached Hamada’s Helpful Phrases Also, his comments on their preferred the inner circle in a tribe, you can do as By Spc. Mohamed “Hamada" Karika form of warfare, the raid, something I you please with yourself and them. 4th Inf. Div. PAO think we can equate to the ambush our 2. Learn all you can about your Ashraf current opponents seem most comfortable and Bedu. Get to know their families, English Arabic (phonetic) with. As we know from the Army and clans and tribes, friends and enemies, How are you doing? eish lonek? our own experiences, they shoot and wells, hills and roads. Do all this by lis- Where are you going? whean RAHyeh? scoot, and seldom stand and fight beyond tening and by indirect inquiry. Do not ask Open the trunk afteh el sanDOOK the initial exchange of gunfire. questions. Get to speak their dialect of Open the glove compartment afteh el shakmasha Editor’s Note: The Ivy Leaf will feature Arabic, not yours. Until you can under- two to three of Lawrence’s Articles every stand their allusions, avoid getting deep An old term locals use to refer to policemen is Abo issue. Here are the first two, with into conversation or you will drop bricks. Ismail, meaning father of Ishmael. Lawrence’s own forward. Be a little stiff at first.

Imam Husayn had left his home- number of pilgrims will slice their scalps open with town of Madinah (a city in what is knives and swords. The bloody scene of this high point Culture Experts now Saudi Arabia) with his family of Shiite religious fervor can be very shocking to a in order to avoid confrontation with Westerner. Ashura: A Shiite commemoration of perpetual grief Yazid, a contender for the rule of Although estimates of the numbers of people expected the Islamic empire. Yazid’s army to visit the shrines in Karbala for Ashura’ range from one Muharram is the first caught up with Husayn and his family in Karbala where, million to up to six million, the Karbala shrines are not month of the Islamic after a three-day siege, they beheaded Husayn and others. the only places they will visit. Several hundred thousand lunar calendar. As with all After the beheading, the victorious army took Husayn’s are expected to visit the shrines in Kadhimiyah, Baghdad, Islamic months, the first head on a pike at the front of a procession of chained and Najaf. day of Muharram is deter- captive family members to Damascus. The word Although the intensity of the rituals is much reduced mined by the sighting of `Ashura’ comes from the word `Asharah, the Arabic during the weeks following `Ashura’, they do not stop the new crescent. Muslim word for “ten”. until after the fortieth day after the battle of Karbala, scholars and clergymen The observation of `Ashura is not a celebration. when the captive family members were released and generally do not acknowl- Rather, it is a public ceremony of grief for millions of allowed to return with Husayn’s head to Karbala. This edge astronomical calcu- Shiites worldwide. For the Shiites in Iraq it has special day is known as the Arba`iniyyah, from the Arabic word lations to determine the meaning, because it was in Iraq that Husayn was killed. for forty. The rituals of Arba`iniyyah are nearly identical By Jake Lester beginnings of lunar Iraqi Shiites feel responsible for Husayn’s death, and to the rituals of `Ashura. Arba`iniyyah and is expected to Senior Cultural and months, but depend they carry a great burden of grief. fall on or around Mar. 19. instead on the detection of During the last few days before `Ashura’, hundreds of The two events of `Ashura’ and Arba`iniyyah will Political Advisor the crescent by the naked thousands of Shiites from Iraq and other countries around bring motorized traffic through Karbala to a complete eye. This makes the the world converge on Karbala. The pilgrims will walk halt, both for security reasons and because there will be Islamic calendar somewhat unpredictable. There is no hundreds of kilometers bare-foot in massive processions so many people present that motorized vehicles simply way to accurately predict the Gregorian date of the first in commemoration of the martyrdom of Husayn. Many cannot pass through the massive sea of humanity. The day of Muharram. To further complicate the matter, of the pilgrims will be wearing mournful black. Colored same will occur in the vicinity of the shrines in Najaf and Sunnis and Shiites in Iraq rarely, if ever, agree on the banners will be carried representing the red blood of Kadhimiyyah. date. Husayn, the green of paradise (an important symbol of The events during this time frame will present lucra- This year, the first day of the month of Muharram is Islam), the white of the purity of the Imams and the tive targets for terrorists because of the large potential expected to fall on or around Jan. 31 (this article was black clothing of mourning. damage that may be caused with relatively little effort written on Jan. 20). The first day of Muharram is also the When the processions arrive at Karbala, some pilgrims and because of the great amount of media coverage that first day of the Islamic New Year, which has only a rela- will choose to crawl the remaining distance to the holy such large-scale events guarantee. On `Ashura’ 2004, tively small importance to most Muslims. The most shrine, while others will commemorate the event with nearly 300 people were killed and more than 400 were important day of the month of Muharram is the 10th day, street-plays representing the beheading of Husayn and injured in attacks in Karbala and Baghdad. known as `Ashura’, and is expected to fall on or around the capture of his family. Westerners are advised to keep their distance from Feb. 9. The most striking sight during the `Ashura commemo- these activities, and to be prepared for large crowds `Ashura’ is the day on which Imam Husayn, the third ration will be the scenes of self-flagellation. The most blocking the roads around the shrines in Kadhimiyah, Shiite Imam (and the grandson of the Prophet zealous members of the processions will beat themselves Najaf and Karbala, as well as in the major roads between Muhammad) was killed in Karbala in the year 680 AD. with their hands, sticks and chains. Additionally, a large these areas and other major towns and cities. february 5, 2006 The Ivy Leaf page 17 IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Sgt. Michael Agee Upcoming Story and photo by Sgt. Kristin Kemplin, 363rd MPAD cian. “Some people ask me You may have seen them in the chow hall, five or six Soldiers why (I reenlisted). I really Band Events: sitting near the window playing familiar tunes for a crowd of enjoy my job.” noisy, hungry troops. Or maybe you have seen them at the MWR Prior to his first and sec- playing Latin music or Top 40 hits while Soldiers clap and cheer ond deployments, Agee per- February 5 to the beat of the music. The Soldiers of the 4th Infantry Division formed with the Temple Jazz Brass Quintet: church servic- Band make it their goal to entertain troops and boost morale -- but Orchestra in Temple, Texas es @ 8 a.m., choir at Catholic it is not easy work. They plan events, rehearse daily and still have and local theater in the Mass @ 10:30 a.m. to fit in additional duties. And for most of the band members, the Killeen, Texas, area. When smile on the face of a Soldier is the reward for the hard work. he returns, he will pick up February 6 “If there is just one Soldier in the audience and they are smil- where he left off -- but with a Rock Band: Blizzard DFAC @ ing and happy, I have done my job,” said Sgt. Michael Agee, sax- few changes. Agee will be 11 a.m. ophone player for the band and this week’s band spotlight. joining “Memory Makers,” a Performing for audiences is not new to Agee. A saxophone band dedicated to playing February 7 player since he was in fifth grade, Agee went on to pursue a bach- Glenn Miller arrangements. Brass Quintet: Blizzard DFAC elor of jazz studies at Morehead State University in Kentucky. Agee said he admires Glenn Sgt. Michael Agee practices a @ 11 a.m. The musician soon learned that a steady paycheck in the music Miller, a World War II big piece on his saxophone during Woodwind Quintet: Deflurey business would be hard to come by unless he made it big. band orchestra leader and rehearsal with the 4th Infantry DFAC @ 11 a.m. Division Band “Before I got into the Army, I was playing with swing band trombone player, for his insis- ‘The Jive Rockets’ and I was a jazz band director on the side mak- tence on wanting to play for the troops to boost morale during the February 8 ing 20 bucks an hour. It paid the bills but was not something I war. With a career in music that Agee readily admitted may span Woodwind Quintet: Blizzard could rely on,” explained Agee. Agee also played with bands that the rest of his life, Agee recalled how it all started in elementary DFAC @ 11 a.m. did recordings but never got really big, like Bella Fleck and the school. “Why did I start playing the sax?” Sgt. Michael Agee Latin Band: FOB Falcon @ 8 Flecktones. Agee wanted something more, so he decided to enlist chuckled. “Well, to be honest, when I was in fifth grade and they p.m. in the Army as a bandsman in September 2001. Five years and brought out the instruments, they only had a picture of the sax. I two deployments later, Agee said he does not regret his decision. took the picture home and told my parents I wanted to play the sax February 9 Agee reenlisted for another six years in the 4th Inf. Div. Band because I liked the way it looked.” To Sgt. Agee, we too are glad Brass Quintet: Deflurey DFAC Dec. 13 in Camp Buehring, Kuwait. “(Fort Hood was) my first you liked the way it looked. Keep up the good work 4th Infantry @ 11 a.m. duty station, and I have been deployed two times,” said the musi- Division Band! February 10 Woodwind Quintet: D-Main SUN MON TUES WED THUR FRI SAT DFAC @ 11 a.m. 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 February 11 Aerobics @ 6 a.m. Aerobics @ 6 a.m. Latin Band: Camp Slayer MWR Kickboxing Aerobics and 7 p.m. Kickboxing Aerobics and 7 p.m. Kickboxing Aerobics @ 8 p.m. Jiu Jitsu @ 6 p.m. @ 6 a.m. Jiu Jitsu @ 6 p.m. @ 6 a.m. Jiu Jitsu @ 6 p.m. @ 6 a.m. Aerobics @ 7 p.m. Tae Kwon Do Urban Fitness Tae Kwon Do Urban Fitness Tae Kwon Do Urban Fitness @ February 12 @ 6 p.m. @ 8:30 p.m. @ 6 p.m. @ 8:30 p.m. @ 7 p.m. 8:30 p.m. Brass Quintet: choir services 12 13 14 15 17 18 @ 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. 16 Aerobics @ 6 a.m. Aerobics @ 6 a.m. Kickboxing Aerobics and 7 p.m. Kickboxing Aerobics and 7 p.m. Kickboxing Aerobics February 14 Jiu Jitsu @ 6 p.m. @ 6 a.m. Jiu Jitsu @ 6 p.m. @ 6 a.m. Jiu Jitsu @ 6 p.m. @ 6 a.m. Aerobics @ 7 p.m. Brass Band: Blizzard DFAC @ Tae Kwon Do Urban Fitness Tae Kwon Do Urban Fitness Tae Kwon Do Urban Fitness @ 11 a.m. @ 6 p.m. @ 8:30 p.m. @ 6 p.m. @ 8:30 p.m. @ 7 p.m. 8:30 p.m. Jazz Club: Camp Liberty MWR @ 8 p.m. 19 20 21 Division Aerobics @ 6 a.m. MWR February 15 Kickboxing Aerobics and 7 p.m. Jiu Jitsu @ 6 p.m. @ 6 a.m. Jiu Jitsu @ 6 p.m. February Woodwind Quintet: FOB Tae Kwon Do Urban Fitness Fitness Prosperity DFAC @ 10 a.m. @ 6 p.m. @ 8:30 p.m. Calendar Rock Band: FOB Prosperity DFAC @ 8 p.m. SUN MON TUES WED THUR FRI SAT February 16 Brass Quintet: Camp Slayer DFAC @ 5 p.m. 1 2 3 4

February 17 Karoake Night Ping Pong Tourney R&B Night Poetry Jam Woodwind Quintet: Camp @ 8 p.m. @ 8:30 p.m. @ 8:30 p.m. @ 8:30 p.m. Victory 1.1 DFAC @ 11p.m. 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 Jazz/Old 4 on 4 February 18 School Cards Volleyball Tourney Latin Band: 124th MWR @ 8 Night @ 8:30 p.m. Chess Tourney (TBA) Karoake Night Spades/Dominoes Open Mike Salsa Night Closest to the Pin @ @ 8:30 p.m. Movie Night @ 8 p.m. Tourney @ 8:30 p.m. @ 8:30 p.m. p.m. 10 a.m. to noon @ 8 p.m. @ 8:30 p.m. 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 February 19 Jazz/Old Brass Quintet: choir services School Cards @ 8a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Night @ 8:30 p.m. Texas Hold’em Movie Night Karaoke Night Ping Pong Tourney R&B Night Poetry Jam Closest to the Pin @ Poker Tourney @ 8 p.m. @ 8 p.m. @ 8:30 p.m. @ 8:30 p.m. @ 8:30 p.m. 10 a.m. to noon @ 8:30 p.m. February 21 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 Woodwind Quintet: Camp Jazz/Old Flag Ftball Victory DFAC 1.2 @ 11 a.m. School Cards Team Capt.’s Night @ 8:30 p.m. Pool Tourney Movie Night @ Karaoke Night Mtg @ 6 p.m. Open Mike @ 8:30 Flag Ftball Tourney Closest to the Pin @ @ 8:30 p.m. 8:30 p.m. @ 2000 Spades/Dominoes p.m. (TBA) February 22 10 a.m. to noon Tourney @ 2030 Rock Band: FOB Union 3 MWR 26 27 28 @ 7:30 p.m. Jazz/Old Division School Cards Country Western Brass Quintet: FOB Union 3 @ Night @ 8:30 p.m. MWR Open House Night @ 8:30 p.m. MWR February 7:30 p.m. Closest to the Pin @ (Enjoyment Night) Movie Night 10 a.m. to noon @ 8 p.m. Calendar Page 18 The Ivy Leaf february 5, 2006 GUIDANCE

List of religious services, alcoholics Chaplain’s Corner anonymous, environmental morale What is shaping your spiritual character? leave and reunion briefings In one of my favorite movies, becomes a Soldier. CAMP STRIKER CHAPEL DIVISION CHAPEL "Sergeant York," Gary Cooper In October 1918, York's unit is Sunday Sunday stars as the legendary Alvin York. fighting in the Argonne Forest in 9 a.m. Catholic Mass 9 a.m. Contemporary Protestant Set in the backwoods of France. While out on patrol, his 9 a.m. Devotional (TOC Worship Tennessee just prior to World War detail is ambushed. Most of York's Conference room) 10:30 a.m. Roman Catholic I, York is portrayed as a rabble- comrades are killed, wounded or 10 a.m. Contemporary Mass rousing country boy who, one day, pinned down by the raking Chaplain (Maj.) Protestant 3 p.m. Gospel Worship discovers religion and a personal machine gun fire. Against the 10:30 a.m. Protestant (Pad 6, 8 p.m. Collective Protestant Richard Koyama, faith in God. His lifestyle odds, he maneuvers from position Tent 410) Worship deputy division chaplain, changes abruptly and the old to position firing his weapon and 11:15 a.m. Traditional Monday 4th Inf. Div. Protestant 6 p.m. EML Chaplain's habits of wreaking havoc are gone killing 25 enemy soldiers. 4:30 p.m. Protestant Briefing forever. York Regrouping, rooted in the Bible and he refused 6 p.m. LDS 7 p.m. Bible Study turns to the Bible York and the to depart from them. 7 p.m. Praise Service (Gospel) Tuesday for spiritual guid- remaining young As we read and study 7:30 p.m. Praise and Testimony 7 p.m. Bible Study ance and puts junior enlisted Scriptures, may we be challenged (Pad 6, Tent 410) Wednesday into practice his Turning Soldiers capture about the meaning and under- Monday 6 p.m. EML Chaplain's Brief new values. 132 German sol- standing of its testimonies: God's 6:30 a.m. TOC Prayer Service 7 p.m. Bible Study As America diers and march love, mercy, grace, compassion (TOC Conference room) 7:30 p.m. Alcoholics to the 9 a.m. Catholic Mass Anonymous moves closer to them toward and forgiveness. Tuesday Thursday war York is draft- Bible friendly lines. Let us be also reminded, as it 6:30 a.m. TOC Prayer Service 6:30 p.m. Bible Study ed by the Army York is pro- was with Sgt York, that the Bible (TOC Conference room) (Women) but, governed by moted to sergeant shapes our spiritual character as Wednesday 7:30 p.m. Gospel Choir his new beliefs, and emerges from we continue to grow and prosper 6:30 a.m. TOC Prayer Service Rehearsal refuses to join. At first he con- the war a hero and recipient of the according to God's provisions for (TOC Conference room) Friday tends that the Army is in violation Medal of Honor. Upon his return us. May we turn to the Bible to 9 a.m. Catholic Mass 6 p.m. EML Chaplain's of Biblical prohibitions against to the United States, profiteers learn about life through God's 6 p.m. LDS Bible Study Briefing killing. York struggles with this seeking to capitalize on his status plan. Sgt. York, following his 7 p.m. Prayer/Bible Study 7 p.m. Bible Study 7:30 p.m. Prayer/Bible Study Saturday issue and after prayerful consider- hound him for endorsements. conversion, saw a purpose in his (Pad 6, Tent 410) 7 p.m. Bible Study (Men) ation and close scripture examina- Declining these offers of wealth life and carried it out bravely and Thursday 8 p.m. Contemporary tion he reaches a different conclu- and more fame, York returns to faithfully. As God’s precepts and 6:30 a.m. TOC Prayer Service Protestant Praise Band sion. He comes to believe that, in Tennessee, marries, and resumes truths are taught may we draw (TOC Conference room) Rehearsal a just war, killing is necessary in the quiet life of a farmer. York's closer to Him who gives each of 5 p.m. Purpose Driven Life order to preserve peace. York new values for living were deeply us a purpose in life. 7 p.m. Praise Choir Practice WARRIOR CHAPEL Friday Sunday 6:30 a.m. TOC Prayer Service 9 a.m. Roman Catholic Mass What are you plugging into? Tips for electrical safety (TOC Conference room) 10:30 a.m. Contemporary 9 a.m. Catholic Mass Protestant Story by Sgt. Ann Drier with it, and/or unplug the power strip from the wall 11:15 a.m. Catholic Mass (TOC 12:30 p.m. Gospel Protestant 363rd MPAD socket. This is especially important for items in your Conference room) 5 p.m. Latter Day Saints One of the first challenges Americans face when hooch – power fluctuations from refrigerators, Saturday 7 p.m. Non Denominational arriving in Iraq is electricity. Our electric wiring at microwaves, clocks, etc. can cause sparks -- which 6:30 a.m. TOC Prayer Service Christian home in the States is designed to provide 110 volts; cause fires! Use power converters to convert the 220 Wednesday (TOC Conference room) in Iraq, it is designed to provide 220 volts. volt power into 110 volts. Again, don’t overload the 6:45 p.m. Catholic Mass (Pad 7 p.m. Gospel Prayer 6, Tent 410) Thursday Unfortunately, this becomes very apparent the converter or circuits will trip and/or cause fires. 7 p.m. General Protestant moment you plug in your radio, laptop, chargers etc., Don’t block wall plugs, switches or panels, it ENGINEER CHAPEL Friday without the proper power conversion or with an interferes with assured grounds which keep the ten- Sunday 6:30 p.m. Wicca Circle overloaded power strip. It is unmistakable, the sound ant and location safe. Don’t block the aircondition- 8 a.m. Roman Catholic Mass Meeting and the smell … Pffffft and the unmistakable erheater –- it has 10 a.m. Traditional Protestant odor of electric components burning up! To to be serviced and 11:30 a.m. Lutheran Worship CAMP VICTORY CHAPEL, 1 p.m. Latter Day Saints BLG 2 avoid this expensive mistake, and the possibility cleaned monthly 7 p.m. Traditional Protestant Friday of causing a fire in your office or hooch, follow to avoid overheat- Wednesday 6:30 p.m. Shabbat Service the following safety guidelines provided by the ing and causing 7 p.m. LDS Bible Study electricians of KBR: fires. Do not use Friday VOLUNTEER as a choir Use UL damaged cords! 9 p.m. Prayer & Praise member for Camp Liberty approved power Keep the Saturday Catholic services. Contact strips (you can power strip where 10 a.m. Reunion & Suicide Maj. Timothy Walsh at timo- tell if its’ UL you can see it -- thy.walsh @mnd-b.army.mil Brief approved from don’t cover it with the sticker on the newspapers, bottom.) Do Not clothing, or hide it plug more than behind cabinets, two (2) items into under beds, etc. the power strip at Keep in mind, a time! Yes, there most of the build- are six slots in it ings we live and but – the circuitry in the buildings can’t handle the work in are either old and/or were built without the load of six appliances at a time plugged into the protective regulations we enjoy at home. They are same outlet and it could trip the circuits or cause a akin to the mobile homes that so frequently go up in fire! Coffee makers are the worst offender! If flames back in the United States. The hooch you you’re using a power strip purchased from a ‘local live in can burn to the ground before a fire truck can vendor’ this is especially important because the reach it. Be smart, be safe, and don’t overload the wiring used in them is not ‘up to standard’ and will power strips and circuitry in the workplace or your most likely cause fluctuations in power delivered to hooch! your appliance (laptops in particular) that can dam- For further information on electrical safety, you age the components inside. Turn off everything can download electrical safety training slides and a attached to your power strip when you are finished video from the Ironhorse portal. february 5, 2006 The Ivy Leaf page 19 GUIDANCE Life in Smallville, USA: an introduction to Life Support Areas trailers that house all military per- as “Smallville, USA.” As cities from AAFES, Fire Department, Basic LSA Rules: sonnel and contract civilians. in the U.S. are composed of direc- Provost Marshal, MWR, KBR, No driving or parking in the These LSAs are further broken torates to sustain it, each LSA DFAC, and Engineering. The Pad areas (Force Protection, down into separate communities also has a dedicated branch for THM enables information flow Soldier Safety, Infrastructure and managed by a Governor and daily operations. These direc- throughout the LSA and Camp. Protection) two Mayors. Camp Liberty, torates include Department of The THM gives Pad Managers No open flames home of the 4th Infantry Division Public Works, Billet a forum to raise concerns for the Follow posted speed limits and subordinate units, is com- Management, Escort Operations, betterment of their Pad and the Secure trailer at all times posed of two major LSAs and Service Order Requests. LSA as a whole. Critical infor- Know the procedures for The LSAs are simply named DPW takes care of the LSA’s mation discussed at the Mayor emergencies (Fire Department, West and East. West LSA con- infrastructure (e.g. roads, ditches, THM usually comes from the Military Police, QRF) tains nine billeting areas and East and sewage); Billet Management Governors THM. Lt. Col. Follow VBC SOP and 4ID By Maj. Troy Ramirez LSA contains seven. A minor controls trailer occupancy Granger conducts a THM with General Order #1 LSA, or rather the “Division” (issue/turn-in) and submits a said representatives, thus benefit- Do not be complacent; Report Mayor, Task Force LSA only contains one. The task weekly Billeting Utilization ing all of Camp Liberty. An indiscretions immediately Thunderbird of supporting daily living for Report to the Governor; Escort example of current critical infor- Notify Mayor Cell for Force Imagine daily life in these 17 LSAs falls upon leader- Operations provides guards to mation is the issue of gravel Protection Issues Smallville, USA, and consider all ship from the 17th Field Artillery support daily logistics tasks asso- placement and allocation. This is Basic LSA Amenities: of the routine life support systems Brigade, Fort Sill, Oklahoma, ciated with maintaining the LSA; a concern by all tenant units, now Potable Water Production we take for granted on a daily Kellogg, Brown, and Root the SOR desk submits mainte- that the rainy season is upon us. Power Production basis, namely water, sewage, (KBR), as well as other associat- nance requests through KBR for The LSA is truly a home away Sewage Treatment power, etc. What would life be ed contractors. action. The Mayor Cell also from home. Basic amenities are Incinerator without these necessities? By Camp Liberty is governed by includes a Sheriff to maintain and offered through a collective and Laundry Services virtue of a tremendous logistics Lt. Col. Dewey Granger, enforce LSA rules and regula- complex system that provides for Engineer Services effort, Soldiers on Camp Liberty Commander 1st Battalion, 12th tions. a comfortable deployment. Secure Environment do not need to imagine life with- Field Artillery. Mayors include Each Mayor brings all these Tenant unit Pad Managers and MWR/Gym facilities (Free out those necessities. The Life Maj. Nick Mauldin and Maj. Troy directorates together, along with Battalion Executive Officers are Internet) Support Area provides these daily Ramirez. These leaders are supporting agents and Pad the link to the Mayor/Governor AAFES and Affiliates comforts, in an austere environ- tasked with sustaining daily life Managers, to conduct a weekly Cell for constant support through- AFN Television ment. support for the entire camp. Thus Town Hall Meeting. Supporting out the deployment. Fire Department An LSA is the grouping of Camp Liberty operates basically representatives include those Just as a refresher, here are the Medical/Dental Facilities

G1 Word: Board dates 1 Serious The FY06 Captains’ Army Selection Board results were released Jan. 24, 2006. Congratulations to the 254, 4th 59 Minor Infantry Division first lieutenants who were selected for promotion to captain! 600 Close Call Upcoming Selection Boards: Soldiers eligible for these selection boards should review their Official Military Personnel File and Officer Record Briefs to ensure they are squared away. You may review your records online, via AKO. FY06 Capt. AMEDD Selection Board Unsafe By Capt. Hope convenes Feb. 14, 2006. FY06 Lt. Col. Medical/Dental Corps High Risk McCleskey Usè Selection Board convenes Feb. 14, 4th Inf. Div., G1 Ops Chief 2006. Behavior FY06 Lt. Col. Army Selection Board convenes Feb, 28, 2006. REMINDER FOR THOSE OF YOU PLANNING TO TAKE LEAVE ABROAD. If you do not have a U.S. passport, you should apply for one tip of the Iceberg immediately. For first time passport applicants, you must apply in person, and the closest agency in theater is the U.S. Consular at the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad. You will need to submit: A completed (unsigned) passport application DS-11; proof of U.S. citizenship; proof of identity; two recent, identical color photographs; and a $97 application fee (only U.S. dollars are accepted). Additional information is available at: www.travel.state.gov.

AVOID BEING A VICTIM OF A SEXUAL ASSAULT DON'T WALK ALONE, even to the showers! Use a trusted Battle Buddy. Carry a flashlight. Don't take short cuts through Deserted or Dark Areas. The use of alcohol and drugs are not authorized; don't let it be an excuse. If Someone approaches you and you feel threatened, SHOUT for HELP and Immediately Report it to MILITARY POLICE, 24 / 7, at DSN: 822-4790 IRAQNA: 0790-193- 2481 or CID. MAXIMUM PUNISHMENT FOR RAPE RANGES FROM LIFE IMPRISONMENT TO DEATH. Page 20 The Ivy Leaf february 5, 2006 GUIDANCE Combating cold weather injuries in Iraq hen most temperatures in the northern Americans think mountain areas can get as low as of Iraq, they con- minus 86 degrees Fahrenheit. jure up the men- Around Baghdad however, the talW image of a hot, dry desert, a average daily low temperature in scenario somewhat different January is about 42 F, but can from the unexpectedly cold, wet dip down as low as 26 F. weather that we have been expe- Therefore, most of the CWI seen riencing over here this winter. in our troops here will be of the At the Division Surgeon’s non-freezing types that predomi- Office we have already had sev- nate when the weather is wet and By Maj. Mitch Meyers eral cases of cold weather temperatures hover above the injuries show up on our weekly freezing point. Preventive medicine DNBI reports. Throughout the Non-freezing Injuries. officer, 4th Inf. Div. theater, combat support hospitals Chilblains occurs when bare tors. The feet become cold and see about 10 cases a month of skin is exposed to temperatures numb, red, swollen and progress hypothermia resulting from between 20 F and 60 F for pro- to feeling hot with shooting MEDEVAC operations. longed periods of time, especial- pains and even bleeding. Throughout history, cold weather ly when the skin is wet. This Treatment involves getting out of injuries have had a significant commonly occurs during and the cold weather and wet impact on the outcome of mili- after PT runs when exposed skin footwear and drying the feet with tary operations. Fortunately for gets wet from rain or sweat and warm air. The injured soldier us though, almost all cold weath- is made to feel colder than nor- should avoid standing or walking er injuries are preventable when mal by wind chill or cooling off and if severe enough, be evaluat- we wear proper clothing and use quickly after exercise. It causes ed or evacuated for medical good common sense. the skin to become tender, red, treatment. Soldiers at greatest risk for swollen and sometimes itchy. It Hypothermia is the most dan- CWI tend to be young males is easily treated by getting out of gerous of the CWI and can occur who grew up in warm climates, the cold and warming the affect- at temperatures well above freez- have less than 18 months time in ed area(s) gradually with direct ing, particularly if the wind-chill service, had previous cold body heat. It is important factor is high or a person’s skin injuries, smoke or neglect proper though, not to massage the or clothing is wet. Early on in foot care. Soldiers pulling guard affected areas or rub them with hypothermia, a person feels cold Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Mary Ann Mott, 363rd MPAD duty at night or in the rain, man- snow or expose them to hot and will usually begin to shiver Sgt. Raymond Castro, part of the 4th Infantry Division Personal ning machine guns on top of tac- water, open fires or other intense involuntarily to produce body Security Det. for the Chief of Staff, works in a cold morning rain putting together his equipment on top the humvee for a convoy. tical vehicles or flying in heli- heat sources as this could cause heat. If hypothermia worsens, he copters are also at higher risk. further injury. may lose coordination and the Iraq. Treatment can be tricky Use the buddy team method, Types of Cold Weather Immersion Foot is also ability to shiver. He may feel depending on the degree of hydrate, avoid windchill, wear Injuries. referred to as “Trench Foot” sluggish and drowsy. If not hypothermia, but the basic points your snivel gear and apply the CWI are often placed into two which frequently occurred in stopped, this condition can are to get the patient out of the C-O-L-D concept: separate categories. They are World War I Soldiers engaged in progress to unconsciousness, an cold and get them warm and dry C – keep Clothing clean freezing injuries, such as frost- trench warfare. It is caused by irregular heartbeat and death. while seeking medical attention. O – avoid Overheating bite and frostnip, and non-freez- prolonged exposure of the feet to Unconscious trauma and other Prevention L – wear clothes Loose and ing injuries. Winter in Iraq lasts cold, wet conditions typically casualties being air-evaced are at Its far better to prevent CWI in Layers from November to April. During between 32 F and 60 F. particular risk, which is why the from occurring in the first place D – keep clothing Dry this time snow can fall anywhere Inactivity, damp socks, and poor Army just fielded 4,000 than to have to treat them. Here Your Division Surgeon’s in the country and extreme low foot hygiene can all be contribu- hypothermia kits this month for are some simple guidelines: Office wants you to Stay safe! OIF Avian Influenza information: Separating fact from fiction, part 1of 2 By Maj. Mitch Meyers, killer bird flu is tremendous by itself, but to make things compared to about 140 million bird deaths, the disease Preventive medicine officer, 4th Inf. Div. worse, this strain of flu doesn’t just kill birds but also peo- does not appear to be readily transmissible between Avian Influenza, frequently referred to as the Bird Flu, ple. Most forms of avian influenza occur only in birds, species at this time. Also encouraging is that there have has been a popular topic in the news since the current out- just like most forms of human influenza occur only in peo- been no cases reported in which the disease has spread break started in 2003. Now that over 20 people have been ple. Occasionally though, a virus develops characteristics from person to person. infected and four of them died recently in Turkey, which that allow it to jump from one species of animal to anoth- However, influenza viruses can mutate rapidly. If borders Iraq, several of our Soldiers and their family mem- er. This is one of the reasons AI is so worrisome, and to someone is infected with strains of both avian and human bers are wondering if they are at risk and what we are date, over 140 human cases have been reported. Of those, influenza at the same time, the viruses may exchange doing to reduce that risk. over 60 have died, meaning that the disease may be fatal genetic information that allows a slightly modified strain I hope this information paper will help answer some of in around 40 percent of the people who become sick from of bird flu to remain highly lethal, yet become as readily your questions and concerns. it. transmissible from person to person as most common The Nature of the Beast: Like people, birds get the flu Since there have only been about 140 human cases strains of seasonal human influenza. When this happens, too, but not all strains of the viruses that cause flu are quite pandemic influenza can occur. the same. Some flu strains only cause mild symptoms in Pandemic Influenza Potential: Pandemic is short their host, while other strains can cause severe illness and way of saying “global epidemic.” The “Spanish Flu” of rapid death. The H5N1 strain that is currently causing an 1918 was a form of catastrophic flu caused by a virus epidemic in Asia and Europe is one of the lethal types and strain. has resulted in the death over 140 million domesticated Like the virus strain circulating today, it probably start- birds in the last two years. As many domestic birds get ed off as a form of bird flu that jumped species to infect sick and die, millions more are culled to prevent the humans that had little or no immunity to this novel dis- spread of disease. The H5N1 strain of avian influenza is ease. In just over one year the Spanish Flu circled the having a huge financial impact in some regions. globe and infected one third of the people on the planet, Exportation bans on poultry after the disease is detected killing 50 - 100 million worldwide. would be very costly to nations that are major poultry This pandemic killed more people in four months than Photo by Sgt. Kristin Kemplin, 363rd MPAD exporters. Birds find a perch in the middle of Z-Lake on Camp died in four years of intense fighting in World War I. It The agricultural and financial impact alone of this Liberty Jan. 26. see avian,pg.21 february 5, 2006 The Ivy Leaf page 21 GUIDANCE Steadfast & Legal $ Pay Attention $ 230th Finance Battalion Two claims programs “Always There and Ready” Savings Deposit Program available to assist Soldiers The Savings Deposit Program allows DoD service members The Ironhorse will need to bring proof of ownership (e.g., receipts, to invest into a government savings account that earns an annual Legal Center has sworn statements or inventory forms), proof of loss interest of ten percent, compounded quarterly on amounts up to information on two (e.g., Commander’s Inquiry, police report, baggage $10,000. claims programs report) and proof of value (e.g., advertisements of Soldiers deployed for more than 30 days to Iraq, Kuwait, that can reimburse similar items). You will fill out a DD Form 1844 Afghanistan and the Balkans may participate in this program. Soldiers for loss of and DD form 1842 and submit your claim. Your Allotments, cash or personal checks are some ways to con- By Capt. Monica individual equip- claims will be adjudicated and, if approved, you Restrepo, tribute to SDP. However, deposits cannot be greater than your ment. They are the will receive payment by EFT to your bank account. currently monthly net pay and allowances. Chief of Claims & Personnel Claims The second program, available only to Soldiers, Pay and allowances includes special continuation pay and Client Services Program and the is the Body Armor and Protective Equipment reenlistment bonuses – so take advantage of early bulk deposits Body Armor and Reimbursement Program. The purpose of this pro- when you get your reenlistment bonus! Protective Equipment Reimbursement Program. gram is to reimburse soldiers who purchased body For more information regarding this and other finance ques- These two programs aim to compensate soldiers for armor and certain other protective, health and safe- tions, visit: money lost incident to service. ty equipment for use in Operations Noble Eagle, http://266fincom1.hqusareur.army.mil/266CM_FWD/266thFo The Personnel Claims Program is for Soldiers as Enduring Freedom or Iraqi Freedom. Soldiers cur- rward.htm well as Department of the Army civilians. If you rently on active duty (including Army Reserve or Office Hours and Locations have had any personal property damaged, mis- National Guard), former Soldiers and survivors of Liberty Finance Office: Mon.—Sat., 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday, 9 a.m. to noon. placed as a result of movement, or stolen, you may deceased Soldiers may now file claims and receive Stryker Finance Office: Mon.—Wed., 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Sunday, 9 a.m. to noon. be entitled to file a Personnel Claim with the Staff reimbursement for privately-purchased protective Abu Ghraib Finance Office: Bi-Monthly Thur.—Fri., 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Judge Advocate Claims Office. The damage to, or equipment if the Soldier was not issued equivalent Victory Finance Office: Mon.—Sat., 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday 9 a.m. to noon. loss of, property must be considered incident to equipment by the Army prior to deployment on one service. In a deployed environment, many instances of those operations. Seitz Finance Office: Bi-Monthly Friday 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. are incident to service. Examples of some situa- The Army will reimburse Soldiers for protective Justice Finance Office: Bi-Monthly Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and tions that may allow a claim include: (1) loss of body armor, combat helmets, ballistic eye protec- Saturday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. baggage during transport to or around the Area of tion, hydration systems, summer weight gloves, and Rustamiyah Finance Office: Mon.—Sat., 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday 9 a.m. to noon. Operations; (2) damage to personal items caused by knee and elbow pads. To qualify for reimburse- Taqaddum Finance Office: Mon.—Fri., 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sat.—Sun. combat activities; or (3) theft of personal property. ment, the equipment must have been purchased 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. The PCA is a morale program and is not intend- after September 10, 2001 and before August 1, 2004 Falcon Finance Office: Mon.—Sat., 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday 9 p.m. to noon. ed as an insurance policy. As a result, recovery is and all equipment for which reimbursement is Diwaniyah Finance Office: Mon.—Sat., 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. limited. If you are negligent, then you will not be sought must be turned into the Army when a claim Scania Finance Office: Mon.—Sat., 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday 9 a.m. to noon. able to recover losses under the PCA. For example, is filed. If you no longer have the equipment, you Kalsu Finance Office: Mon.—Sat. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. if you left your sunglasses on the table at the DFAC must explain in writing why you cannot turn the Prosperity Finance Office: Mon.—Thur. & Sat. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and someone stole them, you will not be able to get items in with your claim. The claims may still be Sunday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. money for the lost sunglasses. Another major limi- paid even if you do not have the equipment any- CPA-US Embassy Finance Office: Mon.—Sat. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., tation is reasonableness. You can claim only for the more. Sunday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. loss or damage to items that were reasonable to Current soldiers who seek reimbursement should Joint Finance Office: Mon.—Thur. & Sat., 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., have in a deployed environment. For instance, you complete and file a DD Form 2902 with the first Sunday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. can recover for a few stolen DVDs, but not for a field-grade (major or above) commander in the Victory Contracting Office: Mon.—Sat., 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday 9 a.m. to noon. 100 of them. You could also receive money to Soldier’s current chain of command. Please include IIGF Disbursing Section: Mon., Wed., Fri., 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (by appointment) replace a broken TV, but probably not if it is a proof of deployment and copies of proof of pur- CERP Disbursing Section: Mon.—Sat., 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday 9 a.m. to noon. $4,000 plasma model. There are other reasons that chase for the items claimed. Former Soldiers and (by appointment) your recovery might be limited. For example, if survivors of deceased Soldiers should complete a your laptop is broken and can be repaired, you will DD Form 2902 and mail it directly to the U.S. Army receive the cost of repair, not the cost of replace- Claims Service at the address provided on the form. avian, CONTINUED FROM PG. 20 ment. Also, items more then six months old will be Those claims also require proof of deployment and was about 50 times as deadly as most yearly seasonal strains of human depreciated according to a set formula. proof of purchase. influenza, but unlike the common strains that usually just kill the old To file a claim, all you need to do is stop by the If you have any questions in regard to these two and sickly, the 1918 pandemic flu primarily killed young and otherwise Ironhorse Legal Center on Camp Liberty (VOIP programs, please contact the Ironhorse Legal healthy people. 242-4568) or one of your brigade legal teams. You Center on Camp Liberty at 242-4568. Like the 1918 strain, the current H5N1 strain also seems to have a predisposition for young people who are mostly healthy and have good immune systems. Today the world is much more densely populated and modern transportation can quickly facilitate the spread of germs from one hemisphere to another within hours. High Risk Occupations and Behaviors: Infected birds harbor most on this virus in their intestines and can shed large quantities of it though their feces as well as nasal secretions, saliva and blood. Those at high- est risk for acquiring this disease must have close or direct contact with these bodily products. This is why almost everyone infected so far has been involved in raising, butchering, de-feathering or transporting poul- try. Poor hygiene and behavioral practices may have also contributed as they can increase the risk of acquiring this and other diseases. For example, some of the recent cases in Turkey occurred in children play- ing with severed chicken heads. Most U.S. service members won’t have close contact with domestic poultry or wild waterfowl and will never be exposed to the virus. However, there is the possibility that while on patrol, Soldiers may encounter infected birds or feces at poultry markets, butcher shops or while searching for cached weapons in or around chicken coops or duck ponds. Look for part two of this information paper in the next Ivy Leaf. Page 22 The Ivy Leaf february 5, 2006 ENTERTAINMENT Ask Uncle Troy “Ask me a question. I dare you.” To the Guys out there: Have the Valentine Blues got you down? Not to worry, count yourself lucky. Well, it’s coming up on the holiday that all men dread and all women love; the time of year when we men try and find a store that sells red heart-shaped balloons and good chocolates. But why spend the money? ‘cause she will only eat the candy a day or two since she doesn’t want to get fat. Then there is the ultimate holiday money waster -- a dozen red roses. For only (?) 80 bucks, you can have a bunch Uncle Troy, 363rd MPAD of flowers delivered that will die in three days. she took me out to a restaurant, bought But wait gentlemen. You are not me flowers and a 2-carat tennis done. You still have to buy a card, read bracelet!” it and make sure it says the “right thing” Now, don’t get me wrong. There is – so you turn into a romance novelist just nothing dumb about expecting to be to say “I love you.” Hey! What if you treated like a princess, or a king for that just started dating this girl? What are matter, for a day. But, what is this holi- you going to write? “I really like you. day about? You’re a very nice person.” ARRGGH. Is it cupid, the colors red and green And this is a fun holiday? $$, or is it about this person you have Now, with all that done, you’d think found that means the world to you, you can relax. Oh no. You still have to someone that makes your spirits soar, look for a restaurant and spend all day in someone who gets inside your heart and the mall asking sales clerks questions so you can’t live without? If that’s the case, you can find a gift that is tasteful, her then all you have to do to have a great favorite scent, color, etc., says “you real- Valentine’s Day is just tell them this sim- ly listen to me” – OH, and can she return ple, over-used phrase, “I LOVE YOU!” it if she hates it? And on this special day, both of you OK, now you are ready to surprise understand that those simple words come her. All the while you’re a nervous wreck from your heart to their heart because because any one of a million things can that’s what this day really means – your still go wrong. But hey, it’s all about two hearts are as one. LOVE, right? So, see how lucky it is that you’re Freedom Rest available for R&R 4-day pass Now for the women in my audience – deployed and can’t do all of that other MND-B sponsors Freedom Rest, where you can go to take a stress break you probably go through the same thing, stuff this year? on a 4-day pass. You can enjoy many activities and games or just sit but you ladies tend to LIKE doing all of By the way, even after you get home, by the pool and relax. Freedom Rest is located at Camp Prosperity, that thoughtful stuff. save the balloons for a birthday party. which is a six-minute helicopter ride on the “sky taxi.” This is an all Sure, you may say I’m coming at this All questions for “Ask Uncle Troy” should be sent to the editor at expenses paid mini-vacation. You will not be charged leave time. Unit from a man’s point of view – but do you really think a guy wants you to go [email protected]; Put strength is not affected; in an emergency you can return to your unit through all that trouble? You know what “Question for Uncle Troy” as your sub- within a few hours. See your G-1/S-1 for more information and to get we really want. Home-cooked meal, ject line. You must include your full manifested on a flight. Or contact Staff Sgt. Staci Wise, R&R NCOIC for sports on TV, maybe a new tool for a gift, name and unit; however, you may 4th Inf. Div., at [email protected] call it quits. You’ll never see a man say request that your name not be printed in to his friends at the water cooler “wow, the paper with the question if selected. Cartoon Corner

By Maj. James Crabtree

Have something you would like to contribute to the bimonthly comic strip? Contact us at [email protected] february 5, 2006 The Ivy Leaf page 23 SPORTS

inning with two outs and television early because “I’ve got Mariano Rivera on the hill. NO to go to bed. I have an early; fill Sports Roundup lead is insurmountable. in the blank ... class, meeting, Comebacks are always a possi- formation.” I don’t want the with Staff Sgt. Christian Farrell bility. Stop being such ridicu- New York Giants, Islanders, lous realists. And can someone Yankees or Knicks to give up 363rd MPAD please tell me when rooting for before the game is over, so I’m want to know is – where have all long as it’s winning and only our team to lose became the not going to give up on them. the “real fans” gone? True fans, when it’s winning. vogue thing to do? “We’ll get a How about, instead of bailing out as in fanatic – which as the dic- The FWFs are the first ones to better draft pick if we lose the when the ship takes on water, tionary tells us is someone who utter those deadly words “it’s all rest of our games,” is the cry of stay with it like the true captain has excessive zeal or an irra- over’ long before the game or the today’s FWF. You never play to of old. Am I asking too much? As Soldiers, we all live by a tional attachment to something, season is over. A declaration of lose. You never root to lose. If the answer to that question is Warrior Ethos that reads in part: or in this case, some team. “it’s over” should be reserved Period! Why do so many fans yes, then beat it. Hit the road in I will always place the mission Those who would not accept a only for enjoy the 7th inning with our team first, I will never accept defeat, I team’s defeat lightly, never felt when the packing it down by a couple of runs. No will never quit, and I will never there was any reason their team scoreboard SPORTS AND FAIR in prema- one needs you around for the late leave a fallen comrade. There should quit, and would cheer and clock reads turely? If game rally anyhow. was a time when I believed that rally around them when the 00:00 or WEATHER FANS it’s a case If you answered no, then raise sports fans lived by a similar going got rough, not get up and the word of being at your right-hand and repeat the oath. But most sports fans these leave. In the sports lexicon such FINAL is attached to a score. the game, the “phony” fan usual- Sports Fans Creed after me: “I days sadly have little in common a person was labeled a “diehard A game is NOT over when ly laments as he is rising from will always place the mission of with these words. Now, before I fan.” Unfortunately, the diehard your team trails by 14 points in his seat sometime in the third or winning first. I will never accept upset anyone, rest assured that I fan has gone the way of the the 4th quarter -- or even 40 fourth quarter, “I’ve got to beat losing. I will never quit on my do not for a second confuse the dinosaur only to be replaced by points in the 4th quarter. A game the traffic.” The fan watching team. And I will never, ever seriousness of the Soldier’s the “fair-weather-fan’, a person is NOT over when your team is the game from his living room leave a game before it’s over.” Creed with sports. What I really who roots for the home team as trailing by eight runs in the 9th on the other hand turns off the See you at the end of the game! 10th Mountain Soldiers, Iraqi army enjoy soccer match

U.S. Army photo After participating in 1st Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division’s soccer tournament at Camp Justice, 1/10th Mountain Soldiers, 1st Lt. Chad Lawrence and Maj. John Beatty (pic- tures) accept a trophy given to “Friendly American Forces.” “Each participant was given a trophy to com- memorate the friendly spirit between (Iraqi) and U.S. Army Soldiers both on and off the soccer field,” said Beatty, 1- 71 Cavalry executive officer. U.S. Army photo Capt. Jessica Grembi, a medical officer with 1/10th Mountain Division’s Company C, 10th Brigade Support Battalion, is presented an award by 1st Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division soldiers during a soccer tournament in December as the only female to participate in the tournament.

By 1st Lt. Stephen Sherman, rate the friendly spirit between (Iraqi) and U.S. Army HHT, 1-71 CAV Soldiers both on and off the soccer field,” said Maj. John BAGHDAD – The 1st Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Beatty, 1-71 Cav. executive officer. Division held a soccer tournament throughout the month Brig. Gen. Jaleel Khalif Shwail, the 1/6 IA command- of December at Camp Justice. The final game was er, honored the U.S. participants by inviting them to join played at a soccer field in the Kadamiyah area of west- him in his sky box for the final. Capt. Jessica Grembi, a medical officer with Company C, 10th Brigade Support U.S. Army photo ern Baghdad. Soldiers from the 1st Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division held Soldiers from 1/10th Mountain’s 1st Squadron, 71st Battalion, who was at Camp Justice during this time con- a soccer tournament through the month of December at Cavalry Regiment, who work closely with this Iraqi ducting a preventative medical assessment, joined in the Camp Justice and invited 1/10th Mountain Division army unit, were invited to enter a team. fun. She was recognized at the awards presentation for Soldiers to participate. “Each participant was given a trophy to commemo- being the only female to participate in the tournament. Page 24 The Ivy Leaf february 5, 2006 FACES AND PLACES

Staff Sgt. Gary Corbitt, a singer for the 4th Infantry Division Band’s “Muddy Boots,” belts out a country twang at the Iron Horse Oasis dur- ing lunch. Oasis patrons were able to sit back and relax to the beat of the music while enjoying one of the many entertain- ment groups the band provides at the facility.

Photo by Master Sgt. Eric Lobsinger, 4th Inf. Div. PAO

Photo by Spc. Jake Judge, 363rd MPAD Staff Sgt. Michael Murphy, section chief for 503rd Maintenance Company, located on Log Base Seitz, welds a door for an arms room Jan. 21. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Jerry Malec, Fires Bde. PAO ABOVE Warrant Officer Arnold Guzman (right), human resources technician, Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, Fires Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, signs for his dorsal auxillary protective system from Staff Sgt. Martha Hinojosa and Cpl. Fahad Jaha, both of HHB, Fires Bde., 4th Inf. Div., at the Fires Bde. headquarters building Jan. 19. The DAPS is designed to provide enhanced pro- tection for the inteceptor body armor system worn by those deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan.

LEFT Pvt. Daniel Manley (left), combat engi- neer, Company C, 5th Engineer Battalion, Pvt. Kenneth Bryant, heavy equipment operator, Company A, 5th Eng. Bn., Pvt. Mike Christopher, track vehicle repair, 951st Maintenance Platoon, discuss the quality of the concrete they poured while smoothing out a new sidewalk at the front of the 5th Eng. Bn. on Camp Liberty in support of area beautification operations.

Photo by Spc. C. Terrell Turner, 4th Inf. Div. PAO