The

H2nd Brigadeeart Combat Team, 101st AirborneB Divisioneat (Air Assault) Volume III, Issue 5 March 2008

Top Guns search homes in Rathwaniyah, pg. 5

Task Force Rogue troops patrol Mansour daily, pg. 4 Page 2 Commander’s Voice The Heart Beat Page 3 CSM Call The Heart Beat

eration, Fardh al Qanoon (Enforcing the will surely, play an important role in As the Spring comes, the tempera- to provide this counsel because they are ing getting out of the Army is that one Law), began a year ago. Improvements helping with local neighborhood se- tures will rise. Leaders need to ensure struggling with the same decision. It is of the greatest things about the Army is; Strike 6 in the security situation in west Baghdad curity. We have initiated 532 projects Soldiers drink plenty of water before, never hypocritical to counsel Soldiers nobody wants to see you fail. The Army can be measured by an 80 percent reduc- since we took over responsibility on during and after physical activity. on their future. It is our duty as leaders is an organization that encourages per- tion in violence since January of 2007. 17 November. Over 346 micro-grants Many of the things we do; drinking to make sure our Soldiers understand sonal growth and promotes teamwork. The Iraqi Security Forces in our area have been provided to small business soda, smoking, and taking dietary If you find yourself in a unit that of operations, under the capable lead- owners who are most immediately af- supplements, do not complement you do not care for it is only tempo- ership of Iraqi Army Brig. General Sa- fected by the assistance. operating in Iraq’s HOT sum- Strike 7 rary. The leadership will change or meer, 1/6 IA, Maj. Brig. General Ghas- There are over 25 major market ar- mer environment. Leaders need you will PCS. You can change your san, 5/6 IA, and 2nd National Police eas in our AO that seem to be doing to know your Soldier’s habits and career field without taking a pay Commander, Maj. General Karim are very well. This resurgence of small ensure they are monitored. Heat cut. I have been in the Army for 26 protecting the Iraqi people side-by-side business and markets would not have casualties are preventable. Drink- years. I have experienced all of this with their U.S. counterparts. The Iraqi occurred without the improvements in ing water, eating properly, and get- and have never regretted staying Security Forces have increased both in security and cooperation with our Iraqi ting the appropriate amount of rest with the team, but every time I was quantity and capability. Nearly 8,000 partners. You all play an important between missions will go a long faced with the decision to reenlist I Iraqi Army soldiers and National Police role here in this operation. I appreciate way to protect our Soldiers from struggled to make sure I was mak- are partnered with the 4,300 Strike Sol- your efforts and dedication to mission becoming heat casualties. ing the “best right” decision. Don’t diers in our formation. and the Iraqi people. Ok reenlistment is another topic try to do it alone. Ask your leaders As a result of your personal dedica- In closing, please take care of each that will become hot. Leaders need for help. Col. William B. Hickman tion, the Strike Brigade Combat team other. We have come a long way, but to take every opportunity to speak I would also like to thank every To all Strike Soldiers, Sailors, Air- has given the west Baghdad people and there is still a lot of work to be done. to their Soldiers about reenlist- Command Sgt. Maj. Scott Schroeder single Soldier who supported the men, families and friends: the Government officials the time neces- I pray that God may bless you, the ment. Many Soldiers struggle with 101ST association. We have had a Strike Brigade, the Iraqi Security sary to move forward. United States of America and the Iraqi this decision regardless of their time what is available, whether taking a bo- very successful drive. It isn’t over we Forces and the people of west Baghdad We have seen over 800 Sons of Iraq, people. in service, 2 to 26 years. We all have nus, looking to reenlist for their present still have a couple battalions that are have come a long way since the com- attend training and graduate from Iraqi Strike 6 a decision to make. It is critical that duty position, or guiding them in taking wrapping up their operations. We have bined Iraqi and Coalition Forces Op- Police training. This is encouraging and “Air Assault” Soldiers receive honest counsel that a professional development assignment. over 550 new members across the BCT provides Soldiers with all the options We must provide this counsel to balance raising over $10,000 in membership available, personal and professional. both professional and personal consider- dues to help support an organization that The eart eat Leaders should also make sure Soldiers ations. Family is always a large part of supports our Soldiers and their family’s H 2nd Brigade CombatB Team In this issue of the Heart Beat 101st Airborne Division who are planning on ETS have a solid this equation. everyday. Again thank you. It still isn’t Commander’s Voice Pg. 2 plan. One thing I tell all Soldiers new to the too late for Soldiers who didn’t have the Col. William B. Hickman Sergeant Major’s Call Pg. 3 Some leaders may find it difficult organization and those who are consider- opportunity to join this association. Commander Command Sgt. Maj. Scott Schroeder TF Rogue Scouts Patrol Daily Pg. 4 CSM

Maj. Jose F. Garcia Top Guns in Rathwaniyah Pg. 5 Public Affairs Officer

Sgt. Paul Monroe Day in the Life-- Sgt. Hall Pg. 6 Around Public Affairs NCOIC

Sgt. James P. Hunter Yarmouk Hospital Open House Pg. 7 Editor Strike AO Submissions: Faces of the Heart Pg. 8-9 To submit stories, photographs, editorials, comments and sugges tions, contact Sgt. James P. Hunter at [email protected]. Top Guns VET OP Pg. 12 Please include rank, first and last name, job title, unit and phone number. IP’s graduate Academy Pg. 13 The Heart Beat is an authorized publication for members of the Department of Defense. Contents of The Heart Beat are not necc- essarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government Safe Neighborhood Project Pg. 16 or the Department of Defense.

STRIKE!!! In Memoriam Pg. 24 2nd Brigade Combat Team -- “Strike” (Top Left) A young Iraqi boy holds up a peace sign to a passing Ameri- The can convoy near the Karama Hospital in the Karkh District of Baghdad. 2ndH Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) Volume III, Issueeart 5 March 2008 Beat Iraqi Security Forces and Coalition Forces continue to patrol and secure areas throughout western Baghdad, ensureing the safety of it’s citizens, On The Cover: and paving the way for a brighter future for all in Iraq. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. James P. Hunter, 2nd BCT, 101st Abn. Div. Public Affairs) Staff Sgt. Nicholas Albert, section leader, with 2nd “Ghost” Platoon, Troop B, 1st Squadron, 75th Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division, receives a kiss from an Iraqi girl while on patrol in Ghazaliyah, Feb. 25. (U.S. (Right) An Iraqi girl smiles at Coalition Forces while her mother carries

Top Guns search homes in Rathwaniyah, pg. 5 Army photo courtesy of 1st Squadron, 75th Cavalry Regiment) her inside the Karama Hospital in the Karkh District of western Baghdad

Task Force Rogue troops patrol Mansour daily, pg. 4 Feb. 25. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. James P. Hunter, 2nd BCT, 101st Abn. Div. Public Affairs) Page 4 The Heart Beat The Heart Beat Page 5 The Heart Beat The Heart Beat Task Force Rogue Scouts patrol daily, stand Top Guns search houses in Rathwaniyah Story, photo by us in our area,” said Gorsuch. a long process; but in the end, it was ready to react to any situation Spc. Elvyn Nieves What started as a five-hour mission rewarding to see the mission accom- Story, photos by MND-B PAO ended in 11 hours. On this day how- plished without finding contraband. ever, the Soldiers of Battery B didn’t “During this type of mission, I use Sgt. James P. Hunter find anything out of place during their my skills and knowledge to help the lo- 2nd BCT PAO BAGHDAD – After receiving com- operation. Despite not finding anything, cal nationals with their medical needs,” plaints from local citizens about they were not disappointed. said Ulery. “Kids from the area come There is no “normalcy” to the people taking weapons into Baghdad’s “We did not find what we were look- to me, and I try to help them out. If it daily lives of Soldiers operating neighborhood of Rathwaniyah, Multi- ing for, which is a good thing because is something complicated, I let them throughout Iraq. Granted, Coalition National Division – Baghdad Soldiers that means all the people living in the know they need to go to the hospital in Forces have been patrolling Iraq for conducted a cordon and search opera- area know we’re doing our job,” said the area.” nearly five years now, but each step tion Feb 19. Gorsuch. “The fact we didn’t find any- The Rathwaniyah neighborhood and each breath taken is a journey; The Soldiers of Battery B, 1st Battal- thing makes it a good day.” has come along much better, and the a journey unknown to some and ion, 320th Field Artillery, 2nd Brigade One of the things the Soldiers of improvements can be seen in the se- one familiar to many. It’s a journey Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division Battery B did during the operation was curity of the area. The locals are very down a path of uncertainty. (Air Assault), searched every house in to station the platoon leader outside receptive to them and very cooperative The daily lives of the Soldiers their section – every room, every box to talk to the Iraqi families while the because they understand it’s for their of Scout Platoon, Headquarters and and every vehicle – everything was Soldiers were searching the houses. By own protection, Ulery said. Headquarters Company, 1st Bat- checked to make sure nobody was hid- doing so, the platoon leader presented a “I’m always extremely proud of talion, 64th Armor Regiment, are ing explosive material or weapons. professional face and explained to them my Soldiers. We’ve come so far since no different. Everyday seems to be “We wanted to show we support exactly what they were doing. This in last year, and just watching how this different; a journey down a path less the locals, and we would actually do turn helped to calm them down while battery has grown in their profession- taken. something to help them,” said Capt. the search was underway. alism amazes me. They were always “We have a very diverse mission Geoffrey Gorsuch, a Peoria, Ill., native, Pfc. Benjamin Ulery, a Jay, Maine, very professional with the families in set,” said 1st Lt. Tyler Rund, the who serves as the commander of Bat- native, who serves as a combat medic the neighborhood. I think they did an Madison, Wisc. native, Sgt. Sen Colon, with the Scouts platoon of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st tery B. “We didn’t want people to hear with Battery B, said the mission was excellent job.” Scout platoon leader. “We execute Battalion, 64th Armor Regiment, pulls security in Adil, a muhallah in western Baghdad, Feb. 7. The scouts patrol all of the battalions targeting, through western Baghdad daily, interacting with local citizens, and stand ready to detain a known insurgent at any stuff and that we were not arresting all high level terrorists given time. doing anything about it. We throughout the battalions [area of wanted to show that we sup- operations].” port them. They also execute a standard “I think they saw our patrol daily, Rund continued, inter- true commitment with them acting with the local population and today. Even though we were gaining a good grasp on the neigh- intruding into their lives, borhood they are working within. most of the people were very “In doing so, we have a working happy to see us because they knowledge of the entire battalions understood why we were AO, and are familiar with the atmo- doing it.” spherics of every aspect,” he said. Gorsuch said they have The Scouts also constitute the had incidents where busi- battalion’s reserve force, on stand- nesses or local leaders were by 24-hours a day to respond to any targeted with a bomb. When significant event within their battle that happens, the Soldier space, Rund said. Particularly, if of the 320th FA respond to there is a known terrorist moving issues of concern, which through their area. demonstrates their care for “The best part of the job is taking the local nationals and lack criminals off of the street,” he said. of fear of the extremists. “Everyone we go after, and subse- “It’s really hard for us quently arrest, has attacked Coalition because there is no police Forces and are truly terrorists; taking station in the area. We have Sgt. Bryan Ganoe (left), a Rindge, N.H., native, who serves as a truck commander, and Sgt. Matthew Hubbard, a Lan- Valparaiso, Ind. native, Spc. John Koritko, and Joshua, Texas native, Spc. Chance Nelson, with the Scouts platoon caster, Calif., native, who serves as a section chief, both assigned to Battery B, 1st Battalion, 320th Field Artillery, 2nd them off of the street makes the area of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 64th Armor Regiment, climb a flight of stairs while to get in there and help them Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), Multi-National Division – Baghdad, search a house during searching a home in Adil, a muhallah in western Baghdad, Feb. 7. The scouts patrol through western Baghdad safer for both the people that live until the Iraqi Security Forc- a cordon and search operation Feb. 19 in the Rathwaniyah neighborhood of Baghdad. Soldiers were conducting the daily, interacting with local citizens, and stand ready to detain a known insurgent at any given time. see SCOUTS, pg. 11 es spread out and accompany search in response to concerns expressed by local residents about weapons and terrorist activity. Page 6 The Heart Beat The Heart Beat Page 7 The Heart Beat The Heart Beat Throughout life, one Strike Soldier has Yarmouk Hospital hosts open house, showcases recent improvements always lead from the front Story, photo by the security situation has improved, he gathered at the Yarmouk Hospital Feb. 16 Story, photo by make an impact on their lives. Sgt. James P. Hunter said. to tour the hospital and view some of the “You make sure they are good Soldiers; make sure they do 2nd BCT PAO Over the last six months, the 2nd Bat- most recent improvements to the facility. Sgt. James P. Hunter talion, 32nd Field Artillery Regiment, in “The whole purpose of the open house 2nd BCT PAO what they are supposed to do, ensuring they stay alert,” he said. “You have to make sure they are there everyday maintaining their conjunction with the 2nd Battalion, 5th is to provide an opportunity for the hos- Surrounded by concrete barriers in west arms and their equipment. The main objective is to complete the Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division, were pital director, Dr. Haqqi, to showcase his Baghdad sits Yarmouk Hospital, which Noncommissioned officer’s lead from the front by mentoring, mission.” able to combat that issue, said Lt. Col. hospital and to talk about issues related to is the largest hospital west of the Tigris coaching and training troops during peace time and war. However, leading by example is nothing new to Hall who Michael Lawson, commander of the 2nd the communities at large,” said Capemay, River and serves to nearly 3 million Iraqis. For the 39-year-old Sgt. William H. Hall, he has always led grew up in a small town along the coast of the Gulf of Mexico. Bn., 32nd FA. N.J. native, Lawson. It houses the only burn center in Baghdad, from the front, and continues to lead by example. Throughout his His town had a well-known football tradition. He was apart of Richmond, Va. native, 1st Lt. Quinn They wanted to showcase what the hos- and is the main trauma center in the Iraqi life, he has lived by the motto, “You lead by example.” that tradition since the age of eight. Robertson, platoon leader for the Civil pital has been doing lately, but also wanted capital. “Sergeant Hall is the NCO that all E-5’s and junior enlisted In 1989, upon graduating from high school, he joined the Ma- Military Operations Platoon, said Coali- to talk about what the hospital needs, he Staffed by nearly 1500 people, with should strive to be,” said Lufkin, Texas native, Staff Sgt. Charlie rine Corps and served as an infantryman with the 3rd Battalion, tion and Iraqi Security Forces are deny- said. 250 doctors, 150 specialists, and 300 nurs- Collier. “Always leading from the front and always setting the 5th Marines. He was a team leader and a squad leader. ing the enemy sanctuary. “This is not a “My attitude is whether you’re Sunni, es and post-graduate trainees, Yarmouk proper example; not the right example, Many members of his family had safe-haven for them. It just lets the enemy Shia, or Arab or Kurd, if you’re injured or Hospital is a busy hospital with outdated the proper example.” served their nation, but none of them know that life goes on and care will be need medical attention the hospital should and overtaxed equipment. Hall wants to ensure his Soldiers had served as a Marine, so he decided given to the Iraqis no matter what his back provide it to you,” Lawson said. “So that’s At one point, the hospital was amid know if they come into a sticky to go against the grain. ground is.” the part we are really trying to showcase to criticism from others because sectarian is- situation while operating in northwest “I always heard it was kind of After seeing the benefits of the com- the community.” sues divided the Shia-heavy hospital staff Baghdad, they can look at him and hard,” Hall said. “At that point in my bined security operation to clear out Ideally, the community leaders will go from the Sunni-heavy population just on know he’s going to make the right life I needed something challenging.” sectarian issues, they wanted to showcase back to their communities and talk about the other side of the hospital confines, said decision. As a Marine, Hall earned his to the community the improvements the the hospital to get it some visibility and Maj. Amit Bhavsar, brigade surgeon, 2nd “Soldiers watch what you do,” Hall Ranger tab and airborne wings. “I got hospital is continuing to make, said Law- generate discussion about issues related Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne said. “Anybody can demand respect to experience a little bit of the Army son. The security situation has allowed for to medical care to the population at Division (Air Assault). but few people earn respect. If [Sol- through the marine corps.” major improvements to the hospitals in- large, he continued. There were reports of Sunnis being ha- diers] truly respect you by you earn- He worked himself all the way to frastructure to meet the needs of providing “There is a significant medical need rassed, denied care, assaulted, kidnapped ing their respect, they’ll follow you the rank of sergeant, until in 1995 medical care to millions of Iraqi citizens. in this community… but it’s limited and even killed within the hospital, which anywhere you’ve got to go.” when he decided to leave the Corps. Community leaders from across because they don’t have the right resulted in a “clean-up” operation of cor- Hall, a native of Foley, Ala., serves He had come down on orders for drill southeast Mansour District of Baghdad medicines, the right medical equip- rupt personnel working within. Since then, as a team leader on the personal secu- instructor, but his father was ailing ment or medical supplies,” Lawson rity detail for Col. William Hickman, from heart disease and he wanted to said. “They’re lacking in some doc- commander of the 2nd Brigade Combat spend what time he had left with him. tors and medical specialties because Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air In the meantime, Hall worked as a the doctors are either not available or Assault). He describes his job as, “Ex- sod farmer and in the lumber business, afraid to come here.” citing, demanding, and rewarding.” but the passion for the military never Dr. Haqqi, the hospitals administra- Daily, the PSD element travels left him. tor, hosted the open house tour to high- throughout the Strike battle space, Foley, Ala. native, Sgt. William H. Hall, a team leader with the “I was an operations manager in light some of the recent improvements escorting the commander as he meets personal security detail, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st a lumber company for several years, that will allow the hospital to better Airborne Division (Air Assault), prepares for a mission, Feb. with Soldiers, influential Iraqi leaders 20. Hall, a father of six and a former Marine, leads by example made good money, but I had a desire serve the community. There have and Iraqi Security Forces. daily continually mentoring, coaching and training his Sol- to serve my country again and come to been improvements in the blood bank, diers. Everyday, in the lead, is Hall. “We Iraq and be apart of history,” he said. trauma center, and with the training of go out everyday. It’s pretty demanding “I felt like I would have cheated my doctors and nurses. A new trauma cen- because we concentrate on the entire [area of operation], going life if I wouldn’t have come over here and at least gave my effort ter is currently under construction and everywhere in northwest Baghdad.” in the battle against terrorism.” there are plans for a new burn center Hall said the key is learning the routes, through continued Since Sept. 11, 2001, Hall had wanted to re-join the ranks, within the facility in the future. planning; however, at times he has to make key decisions on the but had a lot of commitments with family and jobs until one day The burn center provides a much spot. when he said, “Hey, I don’t want to miss out.” needed service in Baghdad and its “You’ve got to make sure you know where you are going Hall rejoined the National Guard where he served with the surrounding communities, but, until because everybody is following you,” he said. “Your main job is 20th Special Forces Group. He went through the selection course, recently, was ill-equipped to provide to get everybody where they need to be.” but even after completing the 21-day course, was not selected. modern burn care due to outdated Right, Dr. Haqqi, Yarmouk Hospital Administrator, speaks with Dr. Tahseen Al-Shaikhli, the Baghdad Though Hall has a responsibility to lead the convoy, he serves However, he didn’t see this as a weakness, but more as a sign. Security Plan Civilian Offical Spokesman, during the Yarmouk Hospital Open House, Feb. 16. Community facilities. an even greater responsibility to his Soldiers. He hopes he can see HALL, pg. 12 leaders from across southeast Mansour District of Baghdad gathered at the hospital to tour and view see YARMOUK, pg. 13 some of the most recent improvements to the facility. Page 8 Faces of the Heart Page 9

St. Francisville, La. native, Pfc. Brandon Overholt, with Company C, 1st Battalion, 64th Armor Regiment, attached to the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Divi- sion (Air Assault), pulls security in Khadra, Feb. 27. The Soldiers of Task Force Rogue patrol daily through Khadra alongside Iraqi Security Forces, ensuring the safety and photo by Sgt. James P. Hunter, 2nd BCT PAO security of the Iraqi local citizens. (U.S. Army photo photo by Spc. Elvyn Nieves, MND-B PAO Richmond, Va. native, 1st Lt. Quinn Robertson, platoon leader, civil military operations platoon, 2nd Battalion, by Sgt. James P. Hunter, 32nd Field Artillery Regiment, talks over the radio to his platoon while at the Yarmouk Hospital Feb. 16. The Pfc. Robert Rushton, a Patterson, Calif., native pulls security and calls by radio Feb. 19 during a cordon and 2nd BCT PAO, 101st Abn. CMO platoon visits the hospital daily to prevent enemy forces a safe haven, allowing the hospital to make the search operations in Baghdad’s neigborhood of Rathwaniyah. Div., MND-B) needed improvements to aid ailing Iraqi citizens.

photo by Sgt. James P. Hunter, 2nd BCT PAO Axtell, Neb. native, Sgt. 1st Class Samuel Popple, platoon sergeant, civil military operations platoon, 2nd Battalion, 32nd Field Artillery Regiment, pulls security outside the surgical department at the Yarmouk Hospital Feb. 16. The CMO platoon visits the hospital daily to prevent enemy forces a safe haven, allowing the hospital to make the photo courtesy of Co. C, 526th BSB needed improvements to aid ailing Iraqi citizens. Spv. Jamie Irvine attempts to start an I.V. on the Treatment Platoon Sergeant, Sgt. 1st Class Russell Kruse, at the Riva Ridge Troop Medical Center. photo by Sgt. James P. Hunter, 2nd BCT PAO Gen. Richard Cody, Vice Chief of Staff of the Army, speaks with Lt. Col. David Burwell, commander of the 1st Battalion, 320th Field Artillery Regiment, at the battalions’ headquarters on Camp Liberty, Feb. 13. Page 10 The Heart Beat The Heart Beat Page 11 The Heart Beat The Heart Beat SCOUTS everything put in front of them, he said. “I On one particular occasion while con- will go home knowing that I truly made a ducting a routine patrol, they stumbled onto Platoon leader remarks on positive impact there and my friends and fellow Soldiers difference.” the steps of the home of a known terrorist; that patrol the streets on a daily basis.” In the meantime, it’s about keeping each however, he was not home. his platoon had on Iraqi children During a raid Jan. 29, the Scout troops ap- other safe, away from the dangers that lurk “We spent some time talking to his fam- Story by with the meager resources they are given. Their class sizes are prehended an al-Qaeda in Iraq leader in east around on the streets of Baghdad. ily and neighbors getting our [intelligence] 1st Lt. Benjamin Sevald huge, two or three times the size of the average American class. Mansour who was suspected of targeting and “As a medic, driver and dismount, I straight for a later raid,” he said. attacking Coalition and Iraqi Security Forces always prepare for the worst: actions on They were planning for a later raid in the 1st Bn., 320th FA Many of the college educated teachers make less than $300 per month. The facilities in which they teach are falling apart and it south of Baghdad in the Iskandariyah and contact, how to treat a Soldier if he’s hit, and week; however, they decided to raid the home is extremely difficult for them to obtain funds from the Ministry Haswah area. This suspected insurgent was make them feel like they’re in good hands,” later that night. Recently, the Spartans of 3rd Platoon, Battery B, 1st Battal- of Education. Multi-National Division-Center’s number one said Koritko. “I’ve put all my Soldier and “We snuck into his yard and approached ion, 320th Field Artillery Regiment, were given another op- At one of the schools we secured there were no functioning sought after terrorist. medic skills to test here. My guys should his home without being spotted by either the portunity to have a positive impact on the lives of the children toilets and the principle had repaired the classroom heaters with “We know as a platoon we have made it feel safe with me as a medic and a shooter… neighbors or the occupant of the home itself,” of Iraq. We all have positive memories from the successful money collected from the teaching staff. safer for every Soldier that leaves the wire,” I never feel like someone doesn’t have my Rund said. “Upon search, we found that the Medical Operation that brought quality medical treatment to Despite these seemingly insurmountable odds, the staffs said Valparaiso, Ind. native, Spc. John Ko- back.” target had not returned…” hundreds of children with limited options for seeking medical of the schools have striven, in some cases for thankless years ritko, the Scout platoon medic. “The guys we For the platoon leader, it’s no different. The dismounted element secured the care. When an Iraqi Battalion asked our platoon to help secure on end, to educate the future of Iraq. They labor in crowed, grab are wanted for a lot of different crimes These men are his responsibility. home, patiently waiting for the man to return. two area schools during the national mid-term exams, we were unheated classrooms because they realize the absolute necessity that resulted in attacks on Coalition Forces.” Given the fact these criminals they are At daybreak, his neighbors came to check in more than happy to oblige. There are few missions that Soldiers of their efforts in building a successful future for Iraq. The Prin- Arresting criminals is what the Scout pla- chasing have attacked Coalition Forces, “my on him. They made them sit and wait as well. can embrace with more enthusiasm than that of protecting in- ciple told me his fondest hope is that the government of Iraq toon loves to do, said Koritko. “You feel like focus is to not only catch him, but keep my Then, just a couple hours later, they made the nocent children. Many soldiers also sympathize with children recognizes the importance of educating their countries youth. you’ve accomplished something tangible.” dudes safe in the process,” Rund said. “There neighbor call the criminal to inform him his being forced to slog through an odious exam. No Soldier in the He and the other teachers then promised that if the government For Rund, conducting this sort of task is have been several occasions where we have child was sick. Spartan platoon could allow additional miseries to be heaped did not change its ways they would vote for different leadership specifically why he joined the Army. taken shots or rolled up on armed personnel in “Around an hour later the [terrorist] came upon the suffering children by bibliophobe insurgents. in 2010. This simple promise proves the error in the claim that “For me I couldn’t ask for a better job dur- the area we are targeting the terrorist.” home and walked straight into the arms of This mission also provided an excellent opportunity to Iraqis do not understand democratic government. I know first- ing this deployment,” he said. “I feel a great A lot of things come into play when target- eight scouts,” Rund said. Just another suc- observe the herculean efforts of the Iraqi educators. After hand that some of them have a perfect grasp of the workings of sense of accomplishment leading this platoon. ing these individuals, “[with] coordinating cessful mission for the Scouts. speaking with the principle of the local boy’s school, I can only democracy and they are working hard to create a strong demo- I know Iraq from a standpoint of knowing the the vehicle support with the dismounts and They will continue to patrol Mansour look with awe at what the teachers of Iraq are accomplishing cratic future for their country. people that live here and their day-to-day life, identifying the individual in question,” Rund daily, and react to any given situation when and I know the enemy, arresting more than 40 said. “It is a tricky process sometimes taking called upon as they continue to take that so far.” what limited info we have on some and using journey down the path less taken. Troops helping improve Top Gun operations Rund’s Scout platoon has accomplished it to move in on a target.” Story courtesy of positions. The improvements are not just Thanks to Norkett and other Side- 1st Bn., 320th FA weekly but daily, as Soldiers are given winder Soldiers, the steady improvements daily tasks to improve their operations so in the Top Gun area of operations continue complacency does not set in. to be the driving force which enables each The Service Battery of 1st Battalion, The biggest challenge for the tower Soldier to perform their mission that much 320th Field Artillery Regiment, is always improvement project was when it came to better. looking for ways to improve operations at deciding a course of action to install and Camp Liberty since its arrival in Novem- weld metal doors, antennas and brackets Puppy ber. Since taking over the northwest tow- to a 100 foot tower. The Battery leader- ers in December, several adjustments have ship relied on Sgt. Norkett, Sgt. Berk, Love come to be an aid in the overall operation- Spc. Drake, Pfc. Green and Pfc. Combs to al success the battalion has experienced. complete this daunting task. Such enhancements like the addition Norkett coordinated with KBR to have of plexiglas helps to keep Soldiers warm a crane hoist his welding trailer approxi- while allowing the Soldiers to be more mately 80 feet in the air so he could ac- vigilant about their sector as opposed to complish this large-scale mission; there’s trying to keep warm. The updating of no mission to complex that these Soldiers panoramic photos are used to highlight could not do with relative ease. With over known areas of interests and their loca- six years of welding experience, Norkett tions relative to the towers to ensure the has never experienced a task like this, photo by Sgt. James P. Hunter, 2nd BCT PAO tower guards could report accurately to commenting, “It was a first, very different Clarksville, Tenn. native, Sgt. Steven Olesen, assist the maneuver platoons as they go in from any welding job I’ve done before. I and Spc. Bryce Wiltermood, a native of Sacra- Valparaiso, Ind. native, Spc. John Koritko, a medic sector. never thought I’d be lifting up my trailer mento, Calif., both with the personal security with the Scouts platoon of Headquarters and detachment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Silhouetted, Houston native, Staff Sgt. Jody Riley, with the Scouts platoon of Headquarters and Head- Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 64th Armor New machine gun platforms have been to weld.” Then, with a smile on his face, Airborne Division (Air Assault), pose for a quarters Company, 1st Battalion, 64th Armor Regiment, pulls security in a home in Adil, a muhallah Regiment, climbs a flight of stairs while searching installed, along with camouflage netting to he added, “It’s extremely difficult to do all picture with a puppy at Joint Security Station in western Baghdad, Feb. 7. The scouts patrol through western Baghdad daily, interacting with local an home in Adil, a muhallah in western Baghdad, better conceal the High observation tower that wearing an IOTV!” Ghazaliyah 1, Feb. 24. citizens, and stand ready to detain a known insurgent at any given time. Feb. 7. Page 12 The Heart Beat The Heart Beat Page 13 The Heart Beat The Heart Beat

And Stretch... YARMOUK IP’s graduate from Police Academy Top Guns hold vet clinic Story by Over the last couple of months, Coalition Forces Sgt. James P. Hunter & Capt. Mark Battjes for Iraqi livestock held a series of lectures at the hospital dealing with 2nd BCT PAO & 1st Bn., 64th AR Story, photo by facial trauma and advanced airway management. Sgt. James P. Hunter “One of the main problems in the Iraqi health care When Iraqi leaders and Coalition Forces began recruiting men to 2nd BCT PAO system is the lack of access to updated medical infor- join the Concerned Local Citizens, their end state goal was for the mation due to the limitations to internet and updated men to go through the Iraqi Police Academy to join in the mission of texts,” Bhavsar said. “This lecture series is one way securing Baghdad as a legitimate security force. The sounds of sheep echoed through the air, as they arrived in herds of we as U.S. physicians can share our training and Men throughout Baghdad stepped up to answer their fellow nearly 30 at a time in a very rural area of Baghdad. Surrounded by orange knowledge with our Iraqi counterparts.” neighbors call for freedom and security and joined the effort to help fencing, sheep awaited to receive vaccination shots to help with their The Ministry of Health, with help from Coalition protect their fellow men, women and children. growth and reproduction issues. Forces, have been able to combat some of the major With the Iraq’s Maj. Gen. Kadhem Hamid Sharhan, the provincial With the help from civil affairs veterinarians, Soldiers from the 1st Bat- issues within; however, according to Robertson, “We police commander of Baghdad in attendance, more than 490 Iraqis talion, 320th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st have a long way to go.” showed him and his counterparts their readiness and willingness to photo by Sgt. Jerry Hamilton , 526th BSB Airborne Division (Air Assault), held a Veterinarian Operation Feb. 22 in protect their fellow Iraqis as they graduated from the Camp Fiji Iraqi Staff Sgt. Eric Curtis of Mobile, Ala., stretches his Transpor- the southern portion of Abu Ghraib in the Iraqi capital. Police Training Facility in Baghdad Feb. 2. tation Platoon, of the 526th Brigade Support Battalion, 2nd The purpose of the vet operation, where they saw approximately 300 Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), More than 260 of the men were recruited from the Mansour Dis- before they conduct training at the Camp Liberty obstacle sheep, was to help the local populace with their livestock, in time, making course. trict of Baghdad. them healthier and able to reproduce to the better the local economy, said “These men were former CLCs and are now police officers work- Huntsville, Ala. native, Staff Sgt. Richard Gilliland, Civil Affairs Noncom- HALL ing for the Ministry of Interior and the Government of Iraq,” said missioned officer-in-charge, 1st Bn., 320th FA. Capt. Marcus Vartan, a Bristol, Tenn. native, who serves with Multi- The local citizens and leaders within the community brought to the National Division – Baghdad’s 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Soldiers attention that their livestock were not doing so well when it came He figured if he still had the mental and physical Airborne Division (Air Assault). “They are the first class of CLCs to their growth and reproduction, he said. Platoon leaders and battery capabilities to make it through, then why not go to become IPs. They will be followed by many of their other CLC commander’s pushed out into the community to inform the local sheiks and active duty? brothers in the near future.” populace to bring their sheep to the event. “Sometimes in life you have to do something The recent graduates went through the two-week course at Camp “What I hope to happen is the animals first off all get better and are able that makes you feel better inside,” Hall said. “I was Fiji that was taught by 20 Iraqi police instructors from the Iraqi to reproduce for these farmers,” he said. “Then that way they can have a on my way to Desert Storm and it ended so I was Provincial Directorate of Police and five instructors from the Civilian better herd for future meals and make them more economically healthy.” like ‘man I missed out.’ I said, ‘enough’s enough.’” Police Assistance Transition Team, said Vartan. The course taught the It’s not a huge concern thus far within the area, but given the fact the Six weeks after leaving the National Guard, photo by Sgt. James P. Hunter, 2nd BCT PAO students basic knowledge in enforcing the law, weaponry, combative sheep are the Iraqis main source of food in this area, this needed to be done, Hall was in Iraq. “This is what it’s all about. Sgt. Jose Bermudez, a native of Mount Vernon, N.Y, with Headquar- techniques and first aid, while also concentrating on the appropriate Gilliland said. ters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Brigade Special Troops Battal- Everyone’s got to do their time and do the right values, ethics and appropriate guidance on human rights. see VET, pg. 17 ion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), thing,” he said with conviction. “Not too many pulls security in the Karkh District of Baghdad during an Iraqi Human see GRADUATION, pg. 15 people can say they came to Iraq and defended Rights Declaration event Feb. 23. their country.” It was a sudden, but he always had his families support. Hall and his wife have six children with one currently on the way. His wife had just graduated from nursing school, and basically just beginning her career, but he knew whatever he chose to do, his wife and children would back him up 100%. They are continuously there for him, especially knowing when he calls home there is someone waiting to talk to him— somebody who cares about him and is concerned about his well-being, he said. At the end of the day, when Hall finally gets the opportunity to kick his feet up and relax, he thinks photo by Sgt. James P. Hunter, 2nd BCT PAO about his wife and his unborn son, and how God Staff Sgt. Robert Elliott, with the 1st Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air photo by Sgt. James P. Hunter, 2nd BCT PAO has truly blessed him. Assault), recites the Oath of Enlistment during his re-enlistment cer- Iraqi Policemen stand in formation during their graduation ceremony Feb. 2 from Milford, Neb., native, Spc. Joshua Pohlman, and Houston, Alaska native, Pfc. Jimmy emony Feb. 9. Elliott was re-enlisted by Brig. Gen. Joseph Anderson, “He’s let me do what I’ve always wanted to do,” the Iraqi Police Academy at Camp Fiji in Baghdad. More than 490 new policemen Young, both with Battery B, 1st Battalion, 320th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Brigade Chief of Staff, Multi-National Corps- Iraq. he said. “I’ve always had the desire to be in the Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), inject a sheep with a vaccination dur- graduated from the academy and will soon begin patrolling the streets of Bagh- military.” ing a veterinarian operation in southern Abu Ghraib, Feb. 22. dad. Of the graduates, more than 260 are slated to patrol through the Mansour District of Baghdad, in Ameriyah, Adil, Khadra and Jamia. Page 14 The Heart Beat The Heart Beat Page 15 The Heart Beat The Heart Beat Pulling Security Support battalion keeps Road opens in Khadra, paves way for economic growth brigade seeing at night Story by activity, he said. This area saw roughly Khadra and made it a safe neighborhood 1st Lt. Michael Dytrych four to five attacks a day on Coalition and again. Story by 1st Bn., 64th AR Iraqi Security Forces, and local nationals. Additionally, local leaders and Coali- The joint partnership between 1st Bn., tion Forces worked together to devise 2nd Lt. Nathaniel Beckett 64th Armor Regt., and the 1st Battalion, a plan to keep insurgents out. They set Co. B, 526th BSB The Iraqi National Police opened the 6th Brigade, 2nd Iraqi National Police up barriers around Khadra to block out northern checkpoint to vehicle and pedes- Division, headquartered in Khadra, had al-Qaeda in Iraq from conducting at- It’s Thursday morning, and just like every morning inside trian traffic in Khadra, Feb. 27, marking a virtually eliminated the insurgent threat in tacks there, Cannon said. Once the barrier the small maintenance shelter, Soldiers with Company B, 526 momentous milestone system was in place, all Brigade Support Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st in the neighborhood’s traffic had to come through Airborne Division, work tirelessly servicing and repairing Night remarkable secu- the one checkpoint, making Vision Goggles for Soldiers of the Strike brigade. rity and economic it nearly impossible for “The United States Army rules the night, and we help them improvement. insurgents to penetrate the do it, at least that’s how I see it,” said Sgt. Quincy Welch, a spe- This checkpoint neighborhood. cial electronics device repair technician with the 526th Brigade had been previously “That’s the main reason Support Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne closed for more than we have been able to open a year in an effort to up this checkpoint today,” Soldiers with the 2nd Brigade Special Troops Battalion, pulled security during the Division (Air Assault). Iraq Human Rights Declaration in the Karkh District of Baghdad, Feb. 23. (U.S. Welch and Pfc. April Rowser work seven days a week increase local security, Cannon said. “Over the last Army photos by Sgt. James P. Hunter, 2nd BCT PAO) servicing this equipment in the Electronic Maintenance Shop. said Ocala, Fla. native, three months, the security Inside, an air purifier on the wall hums, keeping the air free Capt. Daniel Cannon, situation has drastically of dust. The Soldiers are wedged between a work bench and commander, Company improved, especially with dozens of drawers full of the tools and spare parts they will need C, 1st Battalion, 64th the Sons of Iraq and the to accomplish their task. The work bench is covered with night Armor Regiment. work that they’ve done. vision goggles in various states of repair. Some are here for There was only one The security situation has service; some are burnt out or in need of a good cleaning. exit and one entrance allowed for this to happen, Each pair of goggles will receive careful examination from into the muhallah bottom line.” the critical eyes of this technical duo. Standing close by is the previously. The heightened security photo by Sgt. James P. Hunter, 2nd BCT PAO unit armorer from the 1st Battalion, 64th Armor Regiment. His Khadra, located in allowed for the economic western Baghdad, was An Iraqi National Policeman with the 1st Battalion, 6th Brigade, 2nd Iraqi National Police Divi- development of several battalion alone has 525 sets to be serviced; these are just the first sion pulls security at the newly opened road in Khadra, Feb. 27. The opening of the road will 100. a hot bed for insurgent allow for economic growth and stability in the area. see ROAD, pg. 21 The first step for service is accountability. The work begins in earnest as Welch pulls out a job order and begins to call off GRADUATION Armor Regiment. “Our goal has always been to have our Con- serial numbers. The armorer responds by holding up the cor- cerned Local Citizens become Iraqi Police and a part of the responding NVG. In just a few minutes, 100% accountability legitimate government security forces, so this is an extremely has been achieved. Capt. Mohammed, an Iraqi training commander, said he positive step in the right direction.” Now the goggles are ready to be inspected. If they pass that sees only good things for the future with this increased amount Prior to their attendance at the academy, Soldiers from inspection, they are passed to Rowser who attaches a purging of policemen patrolling throughout Baghdad to bring peace to Company B, 1st Battalion, 64th Armor Regiment, and the 3rd kit that removes any moisture with a burst of nitrogen. the citizens of Iraq. Battalion, 5th Brigade, 6th Iraqi Army Division, trained them “The reason we have to get the moisture out is to keep the Vartan made a few stops at Camp Fiji to witness the train- on basic security tasks, such as weapons handling, vehicle and electronics from corroding,” says Rowser as she nimbly attach- ing first-hand. personnel searches and night operations. es the purging kit to another set of NVGs. Purging only takes a “I observed them in first aid classes and in making a felony After undergoing the training, the men were able to work at R second but adds years to the life of any night vision device. traffic stop,” he said. “I was most impressed with their superb traffic control points inside the Jamia neighborhood along side NVGs that fail inspection are deemed unserviceable and discipline and high degree of motivation.” Iraqi Army Soldiers. With their graduation from the IP Acad- O start the long road to repair. The individual components of a Particularly for the Iraqi Security Forces of Jamia, the emy, the men will now be able to receive in-depth training on pair of goggles are expensive, so each broken pair requires a event proved to be a historic day. In September, the men were conducting investigations, community policing and resolving G separate job order then repair parts can be ordered to a specific recruited to serve as a local security force to protect the neigh- disputes first hand. serial number. borhood from once again falling into the hands of al-Qaeda. They will also be able to assume a greater role in the U In just a matter of hours these 100 NVGs are finished. The The 50 men, and 11 others who graduated from the Karkh security of the Jamia neighborhood by conducting patrols to armorer is ready to go. Unserviceable goggles will come back Police Academy on the other side of town, will form the core investigate reports of criminal activity, which is often linked E for repair at a later time. The serviceable ones will be swapped of a new police force that will begin work in Jamia next Fri- to terrorist activity. out for one of the 425 that need to come in for service and the day. It was an extremely proud day for the Mansour District of photo by Sgt. James P. Hunter, 2nd BCT PAO process will start all over again. “There hasn’t been any Iraqi Police in the neighborhood Baghdad. After countless months of rampant violence, fol- Livermore, Calif. native, Sgt. Carlos Santos, with Headquarters and Head- since we arrived, so we expect today’s graduation to have a lowed by an uneasy calm, the district now has an enhanced quarters Company, 1st Battalion, 64th Armor Regiment, attached to the 2nd Welch sums it up well, “We can fix anything, short of Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), pulls security running it over with a tank and having to superglue it back big effect on security,” said, 1st Sgt. Samuel Aarons, a native ability now that it has a police force capable of further enhanc- in Khadra, Feb. 27. together.” of Ft. Worth, Texas, who serves with Co. B, 1st Battalion, 64th ing neighborhood safety. Page 16 The Heart Beat The Heart Beat Page 17 The Heart Beat The Heart Beat ‘Safe Neighborhood’ project more than ‘Concrete’ VET IP Stations open for Story, photo by to be placed around Khadra as a security to the check point with a camera man. 1st Capt. Dan Cannon measure for the local nationals, access points Lt. James Gallagher, platoon leader for 2nd Murray, Ky. native, Air Force Staff Sgt. Billy Nored, business in Mansour Co. C, 1st Bn., 64th AR had to be manned and vehicles entering platoon, found out the two of them were a with the 492nd Civil Affairs Battalion, injected the sheep Story, photo by the area searched or the concrete barriers news team with “Out There News” working with ivormectin, which was used as a de-wormer to get rid Sgt. James P. Hunter became nothing more than an almost $1 mil- for Channel 4, a British network. of the screw flies manifesting themselves on the sheep. KHADRA, Iraq – The day began at 4:30 lion eyesore. The reporter introduced himself as simply “Screw flies manifest themselves in and host themselves 2nd BCT PAO a.m. Jan. 27 when Multi-National Division The purpose of the operation is to bolster “Osama” and spent the next hour talking with on sheep and start to produce infection,” Nored said. “We – Baghdad Soldiers from Company C, 1st security at these access points in an attempt Coalition Forces, Iraqi Security Forces and are doing all we can to improve the quality of livestock for Since Coalition Forces toppled the Saddam Hussein regime in 2003, Battalion, 64th Armor Regiment, wiped the to deter enemy logistical movement and local nationals about security in Khadra. The the local populace.” many areas of Baghdad have lacked a police force to serve and meet the sleep out of their eyes, donned their nearly indentify possible weaknesses in the wall. response Osama received from the locals he Golden, Colo. native, Capt. Zach Mills, with the 432nd immediate needs of the Iraqi citizens. dry uniforms and looked out of their sand- In order to do so, the Soldiers spent the next interviewed mirrored that of the comments the Civil Affairs Battalion, who also injected the livestock with Recently, more than 490 recruits graduated from the Camp Fiji Iraqi bagged windows – hoping to find that it 48 hours searching vehicles with their ISF Soldiers have said throughout the operation. Clostridium Chauvoei & Clostridium Septicum, said, “We Police Training Facility in Baghdad. More than 260 of those men were stopped raining sometime during the night. counterparts. “The checkpoints make this crowded, but can make the quality of the animal better. For the economy, solely dedicated to the Mansour District of Baghdad. They were not necessarily looking “It got a little backed up this morning, they are worth it,” said Omhar, a local man it will allow for better meat and better quality. It will allow With the needed Iraqi policemen in place, the next step was to put forward to spending the next 48 hours and we were surprised to see the local Iraqi waiting in line to have his vehicle searched. for the economy to grow from the ground up.” these men in position in their respective neighborhoods to “protect and standing in the rain; and, as luck would Police working the checkpoint with us “Before three months, I wouldn’t let my While injecting the sheep with vaccine, they were serve” the Iraqi citizens against criminal activity. have it, not a drop could be seen falling without even being asked. Without their children walk to school, but the security also trying to get a general consensus of what the animals Iraqi Police stations officially opened for business in Adil, Khadra and through the dim light provided by the joint help this morning, we would have had a line has gotten much better and my children are conditions were in the past, what the current condition of Jamia, Feb. 10, setting the conditions for a more secure and stable area. security station lights as they flickered on of cars backed up a mile,” said Staff Sgt. able to walk to and from school without my them is as opposed to the goal they are trying to reach for “The implementation of a home grown police force in suburbs of and off. All they could hope for was that Thomas Taylor, platoon sergeant for 2nd supervision.” the farmers in the community, said Nored. Jamia, Adil and Khadra will allow local Arab men to secure their neigh- the rain stayed away – at least for the next Platoon, Co. C, 1-64 AR. The local Iraqis are aware that Coalition “The quality is not bad; it’s actually pretty good.” he borhoods and homes,” said Jacksonville, Fla. native, Maj. Chris Budi- couple of days. The locals from Khadra, although hesi- Forces are profiling taxis moving into and said. “It’s good that the word got around so these animals has, executive officer, 1st Battalion, 64th Armor Regiment. “This will At 6 a.m., they began combined tant at first, have made it a point to voice out of the city, but it has not slowed down the could get vaccinated. It’s going to help.” ultimately facilitate our effort to destroy al-Qaeda for once and for all in traffic control point operations with the their appreciation for the wall that now sur- influx of taxi traffic they continue to see at the Another problem they are facing in the area is the lack the Mansour District of Baghdad.” Concerned Local Citizens and their Iraqi rounds their city, said Taylor. As they weigh check points. of an Iraqi veterinarian clinic to treat these animals, said Capt. Azad, commander of the Adil Police Station, said it is time for National Police counterparts of the 1st the inconvenience versus the increased “Two months ago I wouldn’t even come Gilliland. The Top Gun troops want to identify a qualified Iraqi policemen to take control of their neighborhoods. Battalion, 6th Brigade, 2nd Iraqi National security the wall has provided, the majority into Khadra; lately though, business has been vet, provide him with a traveling veterinarian kit and allow “In the next six months, everything will be safer and quieter,” he Police Division. of Khadra citizens have come to appreciate good and the checkpoints are only a slight him to move through the community to give the animals said with conviction and guarantee. “Everyone who goes to school and The operation was simple in its tasking, the barriers. inconvenience. They are actually the reason it regular immunizations and examinations. everyone who goes to work will be safe because the Iraqi Police will do but the purpose had a more complicated At 11:30 a.m. Jan. 28, almost 30 hours is now safe for me to come into Khadra,” said “The ultimate goal is to get a veterinarian in this area their job.” goal. As several tons of concrete continue into the mission, a local national walked up Ali, a taxi driver from Dora. to try and help these people with their animals,” Gilliland There are some immediate problems the Iraqi policemen will face During a neighborhood advisory council said. As Coalition Forces continue to move more toward an see OPENING, pg. 20 meeting a month ago, NAC representatives over watch position, allowing Iraqis to take care of Iraqis is presented a plan to the chairman to produce essential. So getting a veterinarian into the area allows for memos for local bus drivers to come in and Coalition Forces to continue that move toward over watch. out of the city to carry children to and from “We are trying to stimulate their economy as we con- schools in Khadra. There are 14 schools tinue this push forward,” Mills said. “We want them to be inside Khadra that are attended by students able to do this themselves.” throughout the Al Mansour District. In about a month, the veterinarians will push back into Although the barriers have certainly the community to assess the improvements of the sheep. hindered what locals would consider daily ac- tivities in the neighborhood, they continue to develop plans to help streamline and support the project. Marian is one of these bus drivers found waiting in line at the checkpoint with a van full of children who were apparently late getting to the Khadra Girls Secondary School to take their semester exams. “The process is getting easier,” said Mar- ian. “Two months ago, we couldn’t even find

Concerned Local Citizens man a checkpoint in Khadra Jan. 27. Multi-National Division – Baghdad Sol- drivers willing to do this job.” diers with Company C, 1st Battalion, 64th Armor Regiment, operationally attached to the 2nd Brigade “You can’t be late if you’re all late to- photo by Sgt. James P. Hunter, 2nd BCT PAO Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), conduct combined traffic control point operations gether,” explained Gallagher, to a van full of with CLCs and Iraqi National Police while concrete barriers were being emplaced throughout the mu- An Iraqi farmer leads his herd of sheep prior to them receiving An Iraqi Policeman takes roll at the Adil Iraqi Police Station in western Baghdad, Feb. hallah to enhance security throughout. students who were worried about being late. vaccinations during a veterinarian operation in southern Abu 9, prior to police training. Iraqi Police Stations opened for business in three muhallahs Ghraib Feb. 22. in the Mansour District of Baghdad Feb. 10. Page 18 The Heart Beat The Heart Beat Page 19 The Heart Beat The Heart Beat New IP force integrates with Deputy Minister Soldiers support Soldiers, become one team of Education visits Story by they would answer that they are somewhat medical supplies help them to provide the Coalition Forces Staff Sgt. Jeryn Jackson of a lifeline. The Soldiers Company A, B, necessary treatment to injured personnel, and C come together to provide logistical, and barriers are hauled and emplaced in Story by This marked the first time the new Iraqi Ameriyah Schools Co. A, 526th BSB maintenance, and medical support in order order to provide essential security to the Police force had patrolled the area. 1st Lt. Robert Langford Story by make the execution of these essential re- Soldiers at DJSS Kadhimiyah. They conducted random searches of Co. B, 1st Bn., 64th AR Spc. Joshua Barnash Day-in and day-out, the Soldiers of the supply missions possible. By supporting these Soldiers, the 526th homes, cars, and pedestrians in an effort 526th Brigade Support Battalion perform Everything that the battalion delivers to BSB is in turn helping them to support The Iraqi Police academies at Camp to better secure the population of Jamia. 4th Sqdn., 10th Cav. Regt. several very important missions, many the security station is vital to the Soldiers other Soldiers. It’s a cycle of subsisting Fiji and Camp Furat, both located in Their presence was widely received by of which support the Soldiers at District of the 2nd Brigade Special Troops Battal- which makes all units an important part of Baghdad, recently graduated two classes the local citizens of the area as it marked Iraq’s Deputy Minister of Educa- Joint Security Station Kadhimiyah in west ion; Company E, 526th BSB; and the 1st the operation. One unit cannot perform its of police officers, with nearly 300 of those a milestone in the effort to establish joint tion, Dr. Nehad Al Joubory, assessed Baghdad. Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment. mission without the help of the other units. new Iraqi Policemen dedicated for the city security in the Baghdad area. the ongoing school projects in If you ask the Soldiers of the 526th Food, water, ice and utensils are Just to get to DJSS Kadhimiyah, a mission of Jamia. Both children and adults were out in the Ameriyah Feb. 13. BSB if their support to the Soldiers in delivered in order to provide essential has to pass through four separate unit’s Those officers are beginning their inte- streets eager to embrace the Iraqi Police Joubory, alongside Lt. Col. Monty Kadhimiyah is important, they would re- nourishment; maintenance supplies and battle space. The concept of several mov- gration into the local neighborhoods with with praise. L. Willoughby, commander of the spond that they are just ordinary Soldiers parts enable them to perform their mis- ing parts that come together to make one the mentoring of Coalition Forces. Sgt. 1st Class Martin Hilton, a Bruns- 4th Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regi- performing a job that must be done. If sions; fuel is delivered so they can keep team is what makes this Army so remark- Soldiers from Company B, 1st Battal- wick, Ga. native, and platoon sergeant in ment, attached to the 2nd Brigade you asked the Soldiers at DJSS Kadhimi- their vehicles running; mail is delivered to able…a machine that cannot be stopped, ion, 64th Armor Regiment, attached to the Company B, described the situation as a Combat Team, 101st Airborne yah if what 526th BSB does is important, help with unit morale and quality of life; cannot be beaten, and will never quit! 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Air- “testament to the strength and determina- Division (Air Assault), visited the borne Division (Air Assault), conducted tion of the Iraqi people.” Al Fardious and Al Rawadan school joint patrols with the newly integrated Currently, the police force in Jamia projects in Ameriyah to gain an as- Ameriyah IP Station opens for business Iraqi Policemen, Feb. 26. stands at 69 trained policemen. Another sessment on its progress, which are The patrol was conducted in Jamia, a 119 recently graduated from the Iraqi projected to open sometime during Story by Upon arrival, Khadim cut the ceremonial ribbon that leads into neighborhood in western Baghdad, and Police Academy and will be joining the the first or second week of March. Sgt. 1st Class Logan Reiser the IP station. Subsequently, Rasheem gave Khadim a tour of the was considered an overwhelming success. force shortly. “The school openings will provide 4th Sqdn., 10th Cav. Regt. facilities, then asked everyone to join him in the conference room a viable and capable facility where were Khadim gave a spoke to all the visitors. Cavalry troops deliver supplies the children of Iraq can continue They discussed reconciliation and the importance of the new their education,” said Capt. Kelly Local citizens of Ameriyah can sleep a little easier tonight IP station. He noted that Ameriyah citizens do not have to live in to Iraqi hospital Lanphere, civil military operations under the watchful eye of their newly opened Iraqi Police station. fear, and they can now live in peace under the watchful eyes of officer, 4th Squadron, 10th Cav. It has been years since the Ameriyah faithful have seen a fully their Iraqi policemen. Regt. operational IP station in their city, but all that has changed. After the ceremony, Lt. Col. Monty L. Willoughby, command- The Deputy Minister discussed is- Under the watchful eyes of the Mansour district police com- er, 4th Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment, attached to the 2nd sues with the contractor in charge of mander, Brig. Gen. Raheem, and the Baghdad police commander, Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), rebuilding the schools while Afrah, Maj. Gen. Khadim, the Ameriyah Iraqi Police station opened its noted that, “These types of events are instrumental toward our the head engineer in charge of school doors to the city in grand fashion Feb. 24. ongoing reconciliation efforts.” projects for the Ministry of Educa- vehicles, the Outlaw maintenance team also the fight. tion, inspected the jobsite on both services and repairs vehicles for two Military In addition to their aggressive service schools. Outlaw Wrench Transition Teams and one Iraqi National schedule, they have also installed countless One of Joubory’s main goals is to Story by Police Training Team. upgrades to Outlaw vehicles to include spot ensure that all schools in the Bagh- 1st Lt. Mike Jones It is also not uncommon to see complete lights, sniper blinds, mine rollers, and spare dad area, as well as within Iraq, are 1st Bn., 64th AR strangers drive into the motor pool for quick tire kits. As the tactical environment changes, photo by Capt. Kyle Satelee, 4th Sqdn., 10th Cav. Regt. photo by Capt. Kyle Satelee, 4th Sqdn., 10th Cav. Regt. equipped with enough computers’ fixes before they head back outside the wire. the mechanics have continually developed Capt. Tom Fournier, commander, Troop C, 4th Soldiers with Troop C, 4th Squadron, 10th Cavalry to combat the growing computer il- Squadron, 10th Cavalry Regiment, attached to Regiment, attached to the 2nd Brigade Combat Outlaw mechanics don’t look at patches or upgrades and improved the survivability of literacy problem. He feels that it is a An integral part of every combat operation the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), place bumper numbers—if they bring it in for work, the Outlaw fleet through added armor fabrica- Division (Air Assault), and an Iraqi man distribute a box of medical supplies on the ground prior to growing problem and wants to focus is maintenance. In order for a mission to be medical supplies at the Islamic Hospital in Ameri- handing them out at Islamic Hospital in Ameriyah it’ll roll out in better shape than before. The tions to increased protection against impro- more time and money on its resolu- completely successful, all vehicles, weapons, yah during a medical supply drop Feb. 12. during a medical supply drop Feb. 12. Outlaw mechanics don’t make band-aid fixes vised explosive devices and small arms fire. tion, even if it means cutting costs in and associated equipment must be fully mis- though. If it comes in for work everything While their work often goes unnoticed, other areas. sion capable and ready for any fight. gets fixed before it rolls back out. They it is simply because their hard work ensures The Deputy Minister was very Since deploying to Iraq, the Outlaw main- take extreme pride in their work and have that everything works. No matter the condi- “Strike” Brigade Combat Team pleased with the progress of the tenance team, of the 1st Battalion, 64th Armor received compliments from every leader who tions— blazing sun, pouring rain, deep mud, ongoing projects and with Coalition Regiment, has performed services on over has visited the motor pool for their work and or the coldest weather of the century— these 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) Forces for their help in the schools 40 wheeled vehicles and 30 tracked vehicles. disciplined approach to maintenance. Their great Soldiers take tremendous pride in all renovation. Despite managing the headquarters company Operation Iraqi Freedom vehicle fleet that is double the size of their technical repair skills have lead to a 98% they do. Their work is the cornerstone of the stateside fleet, due to additional specialty operational readiness rate, keeping Outlaw in battalion’s success. Page 20 The Heart Beat The Heart Beat Page 21 The Heart Beat The Heart Beat Personal security detachment platoon: “It’s a Family” Iraqi Security Forces Story, photo by within the team. Spc. Preston S. Millner The Soldiers know they can always turn to the noncommis- HHC, 2nd BSTB sioned officers when they need advice or when they need to just sit down and talk. Sgt. David Acevedo of Vancouver, Wash., said, “I am really glad that I can be apart of this family and serve From the first day that Staff Sgt. Adam Hughes took over the here in Iraq with them.” personal security detachment platoon of the 2nd Brigade Special The platoon consists of 14 personnel trained to provide pro- Troops Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Di- tective services for Lt. Col. Miguel B. Hobbs, commander, 2nd vision (Air Assault), he made sure they would become more like BSTB. They also provide services for the Strike Team Engineer- a family. Even though the PSD team ing and Management Team, which (Left) An Iraqi National Policeman with the 1st Battalion, 6th is made up of many different special- supervises and assesses the reconstruc- Brigade, 2nd Iraqi National Police Division pulls security in Khadra, Feb. 27. (Right) An Iraqi Army Soldier pulls security ties, such as infantrymen, military tion developments in the Karkh District near a vegetable stand in the western Baghdad Karkh District policemen, engineers, and so forth, it of west Baghdad. March 1. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. James P. Hunter, 2nd BCT was a must they came together as a The projects the STEAM Team sup- PAO) family. ports consist of cleaning up the roads, It can be stressful seeing each per- working on the barriers on the high- OPENING Also, in Khadra, there are 168 total policemen operating out son everyday and being around each ways, reconstruction of the sidewalks, of the Khadra Police Station. Of those men, 58 are recent gradu- other all the time, but by becoming a repairing water lines and many more ates of the police academy. close family they are able to oper- essential services. within their muhallahs, said Columbia, S.C. native, 1st Lt. Ben- Even though these men are graduates of the IP Academy, ate as a well as any team and even Staff Sgt. Paul Sanford of Clarksville, jamin Kim, executive officer, Co. A, 1st Bn., 64th Armor Regt. their training will not stop as Coalition Forces want to build the exceed the standard. Tenn., said, “I am impressed with the One of the biggest problems in Adil is the number of abandoned strongest police force possible. About once a month the platoon dedication the contractors in the Karkh homes. On Feb. 9, the day prior to the opening, IP’s in Adil began comes together and conducts a sens- District have shown to projects through- When sectarian violence went into full throttle, many people filtering into their station for continued training. ing session, to discuss freely what out the Baghdad area. It shows they Sgt. David Acevedo of Vancouver, Wash., provides protective let their homes for the safety of their families. With the security Their day began at 9 a.m. Some came in late, some were out they need to improve on or sustain, security for the Strike Team Engineering and Management really care about the future of Iraq.” situation stabilized, many Iraqis are returning to find others oc- of uniform and a few were unshaven. This did not go over to which helps with the communication Team in the Karkh District. see FAMILY, pg. 23 cupying their homes, he said. well with Azad, their station commander. He expects disciplined “You have the home owners coming back with their proofs policemen on his force. ROAD of deeds,” Kim said. “The Iraqi Police will be the legitimate “Discipline is something you have to enforce,” Kim said. Battalion awards grants to center force that helps maintain security in the area while helping to “You can’t have people showing up late to formation. It also market areas in Khadra because the local citizens Story by business plan to help model possible resolve issues of land ownership.” shows that these people didn’t show up because they were were no longer scared to venture outside of their 4th BCT, 3rd Inf. Div. PAO growth of their business. However, Adil is a relatively safe neighborhood, and with the drafted; they showed up because they want to be here. They homes to shop for goods, he said. The economic The instructors mentored the addition of 53 Iraqi Policemen operating out of the Adil Police just need guidance in the right direction, and that is what this is and security advancement of Khadra allowed students with their business plans Station, Kim hopes they “will be able to maintain the stability really all about— giving them the guidance and showing them Coalition Forces and their Iraqi Security Forces FOB KALSU, Iraq – Students from and then selected the top 15 plans to that already exists in the area and provide more security.” the way.” partners to evaluate the possibility of opening the Babylon Center for Economical receive micro grants. “The opening of the Adil IP Station will most importantly Over the next couple weeks, Soldiers will train these men this crucial northern checkpoint. Development received micro grants in The Commander of 2nd Battalion, provide more security forces throughout the Hay’y. Nothing can on various police tactics to continue to develop their skills, said Though they found the security enhance- a ceremony, Jan. 26, in Iskandariyah. 502nd Infantry Regiment, Lt. Col. happen if the area is unsecured,” said Sweetwater, Tenn. native, Kim. ment helped boost the economy in Khadra, it The micro grants ranged from Michael Getchell, met with the top Capt. John Dixon, commander for Company A. “More security According to Phoenix native, Staff Sgt. Terry Blogg, Bradley inevitably slowed the economy due to the closed $1000 and $2500; the total awarded graduates from the business training will enable the residence of Adil to feel safer, thus allowing for Section Leader with 3rd Platoon, Co. A, 1st Bn., 64th Armor northern checkpoint. was $27,250. The grants were made and personally thanked the recipients more stores to open and essential services returned, stimulating Regt., they will teach on various topics such as duties and re- During a recent patrol, Jacksonville, Fla. to nine existing businesses and six for their efforts to improve their busi- economic growth. sponsibilities, medical training, reacting to improvised explo- native, Maj. Chris Budihas, operations officer, new businesses. ness. “Furthermore, this will show the people that the [Govern- sive devices, ethics training, operating tactical checkpoints, and 1st Bn., 64th Armor Regt., and COL Mustafa, More than 100 local business own- “I am opening up a café. This is ment of Iraq] is continuing to make progress to return the area rules of engagement. commander of 1-6-2 Iraqi National Police, asked ers in Iskandariyah participated in the my first business. It’s the first kind to a sense of normalcy and encourage reconciliation as the GoI That day Blogg taught a class on escalation of force. “Self the local leaders what supplementary actions class. There was no fee for the class of business for this area; a small shop is seen as caring about the Sunni population,” Dixon continued. defense; A police officer has the right to defend himself,” he could further boost their economy. Their answer and enrollment was open to everyone, that sells snacks and sandwiches,” In Jamia, their police force will operate out of Joint Security said to the class. “You may use force to defend yourself against was to open the northern checkpoint to allow the male and female, prospective and cur- said one of the recipients, Eltiat Ali Station Jamia. They currently have 65 Iraqi Police to patrol hostile act or hostile intent.” flow of residents from surrounding neighbor- rent business owners. Globe, one of three women who re- throughout Jamia. As they continue to train, they will continue to learn and hoods to shop in their markets. The course taught basic business ceived a grant, “I was very surprised “It will give the residents of the neighborhood hope for con- grow as a more organized and legitimate police force, he said. “The opening of this checkpoint will theory, accounting procedures and when they told us that we would tinued improvement in the security situation,” said Parker, Colo. One day these will solely be their streets to control and secure. undoubtedly increase the local economy and business planning. At the end of the receive the grant. We did not expect native, Capt. Mark Battjes, commander, Company B, 1st Bn., “In the future, Coalition Forces will be able to take a further return Khadra to a state of normalcy,” course, all of the students created a that news.” 64th Armor Regt. “This will allow Coalition Forces to deepen backseat as the people of Iraq begin to solve problems on their Budihas said. our partnership with the Iraqi Security Forces as we work to- own,” Budihas said. “The need for Coalition Forces will still be gether to secure the population.” present, but as a facilitator instead of the initiator.” Page 22 The Heart Beat The Heart Beat Page 23 The Heart Beat The Heart Beat Platoon’s training leads to successful missions Iraqi refugees return home to Jamia Story by In order to verify the family’s status, Emad required that the Story by Soldiers receive the message. It is a much senior specialists who then are supervised Capt. Mark Battjes men provide proof that they owned the home in the Jamia neigh- Sgt. Joshua Cannon focused training approach. by the noncommissioned officers of the Co. B, 1st Bn., 64th AR borhood, were currently living in that home, and had in fact been Co. A, 526th BSB Some days training for the Gun Truck platoon. The section sergeant, Staff Sgt. refugees outside of Iraq in the last year. Platoon covers basic Soldiering tasks. Damon White a resident of Richmond, All of the men stated that they returned to Iraq because of the Tasks such as weapons clearing proce- Ky., commented, “When everybody Fifteen men, each representing a refugee family that has dramatic increase in security Jamia, and they praised the efforts The Soldiers of 2nd Brigade Combat dures, daily maintenance of vehicles, radio knows what to do and when to do it, the recently returned to their home, stood tall at the Neighborhood of the Iraqi Security Forces and their Coalition Force counter- Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air As- maintenance and proper radio operating training really pays off. It makes the mis- Advisory Council in Jamia, a neighborhood in western Baghdad, parts. sault), need supplies to sustain the mission procedures are great refreshers for all Sol- sions run really smooth.” Feb. 25. “This is an extremely positive sign for the long-term security of securing the neighborhoods of Bagh- diers of every level in the platoon. The platoon consists of a mixture of These families fled Iraq as the violence began to increase in of the neighborhood”, remarked Fredricksburg, Va. native, 1st Lt. dad. The mission of the 526th Brigade Other days the platoon reviews very Soldiers from different military back- the western Baghdad neighborhood. John Rerucha, executive officer for Company B, 1st Battalion, Support Battalion is to provide those specific training, reinforcing their ability grounds. There are fuel specialists, auto- The men came to the NAC hall to meet with Emad, a repre- 64th Armor Regiment. “If people feel safe enough to return to the supplies. The mission of the Security and to execute convoy tactics used in different mated supply specialists, water purifica- sentative of the Mansour District Advisory Council’s Displaced homes they left behind, that demonstrates that the neighborhood Escort Platoon of Company A, 526th BSB, situations. They review classes, for ex- tion specialists, transporters, and even a Person’s Committee, in order to begin the process to receive has rejected terrorism and sectarian violence.” simply known as Gun Truck Platoon, is ample, on the proper procedures to evacu- petroleum lab specialist. assistance from the Government of Iraq and have their refugee Emad will continue to come to the NAC hall in Jamia as this to make sure that those needed supplies ate a casualty or repel a Level I threat in According to the platoon leader, 2nd cases closed with the United Nations. marked only his first visit to the area. safely get to the Strike Soldiers. an urban environment. For the Gun Truck Lt. Eric Shumpert from Sumter, S.C., Emad explained that each refugee family would receive mon- The Khadra NAC chairman, Muhammed, noted that the 15 The Soldiers of Gun Truck Platoon Platoon Soldiers, battle focused training is “Every Soldier of the platoon is trained etary assistance from the Government of Iraq, between 1 million men represented only a portion of the refugee families who have train daily to remain vigilant against any very important, but battlefield situations to perform all jobs involving gun truck and 4 million Iraqi Dinars, once their status had been verified. returned to Jamia. threat posed toward the supply convoys need to be balanced with basic soldiering duties from driving, communications, and they escort. “Complacency will be our to enhance discipline. The goal is realistic casualty evacuation to manning a crew number one threat the entire time we are training that is scenario based that teaches served weapon.” FAMILY here,” explains Staff Sgt. Leroy Brown Soldiers to think through problems and It is this professional diversity that from New Orleans, La., the Gun Truck find solutions. makes this specific platoon unique. With platoon sergeant. “The supply convoys “This is my time,” explains Antioch, so many strengths being brought together, Without help from the battalion’s PSD, the STEAM Team that we run have a significant impact on Calif., native Pfc. Jeffery Thomas, “Back the Security and Escort Platoon truly un- would not be able to conduct their missions effectively. how well the brigade can operate. That’s in the rear this would be like ‘Sergeant’s derstands how necessary their existence is. Many members of the PSD volunteered for the mission why we train everyday, why Gun Truck Time’ and really impersonal. But now, I’ve The motto of the 101st Abn. Div. is “A because they wanted to go outside wire. However, now that Platoon maintains the way it does, so that got to be the one training my buddy’s. So, Rendezvous With Destiny.” This unit is they are in Iraq they are able to see all the things the Army is we can be successful.” making sure this training gets done right not afraid to meet its destiny, because of doing to improve the country from a structural, economic, and The training is completed at the lowest everyday is really important to me.” how they adapt is evident by the success- governmental standpoint. Remembering one of the first times the platoon went out- rank level and in small groups so that The small groups are supervised by ful creation of elements like this platoon. side the wire, they went down a back road and one of the first thoughts was that it was frightening area, with trash thrown Daughter’s of Iraq fill essential role in Ghazaliyah security about and beat up sidewalks. Story by been permitted to search female suspects. With the current photo by Sgt. James P. Hunter, 2nd BCT PAO Merely two months later, after many STEAM Team proj- ects were completed, the roads look brand new. Knowing Sgt. Matthew Vanderboegh threat of female suicide bombers, having these women on the Stanton Island, N.Y. native, Sgt. Christopher Hoyt, with the personal secu- streets will enable a dynamic stabilization in security, which rity detachment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air what they are doing will make a difference in this country is 1st Sqdn., 75th Cav. Regt. Assault), removes the bolts from a tire after the tire went flat at District very pleasing. has not been pursued in the past. Additionally, the Daugh- Joint Security Station Kadhimiya Feb. 28. ters of Iraq will also augment recent shortages in locally SOI Since joining the PSD, they have learned a lot about them- With little assistance from Soldiers from Troop A, 1st security forces. selves, the Army, and Iraq. The platoon has become a tight Squadron, 75th Cavalry Regiment, the women of Ghazaliyah Though the training was comprehensive enough to handle ROLE knit group of Soldiers, knowing they will walk away from have stepped up and answered the call to assist in securing a most day-to-day situations, the call for expanded duties may this deployment with many memorable friends. future for Iraq. not be far off. female security force is a welcome sight at the female At Joint Security Station Ghazaliyah nearly 20 female vol- Sgt. Abercrombie, one of the training noncommissioned schools where the previous SOI elements have not had the The first day of work for the Daughters of Iraq was coinci- unteers attended a three-day course to train for basic security officers, said, “Just like the SOI, these women will grow into ability to enforce security measures other then deter external dentally on the same day that an insurgent leader who directly procedures. The training included such tasks as radio opera- their role. Once we start seeing good things from them we threats. The success of the suicide bomber mainly relies on recruited women was captured by Coalition Forces in the tions, reporting procedures and weapons training. Additional- will see about getting them some more responsibility. It is surprise. Women are not normally viewed with as having Diyala province. From video footage taken at the schools, ly the women were trained in searching of female suspects; an not hard to transition them to full Iraqi Policewomen and give much scrutiny for their actions and are much freer to strike the Daughters of Iraq displayed great confidence and pride essential aspect that will act as a force multiplier in the future. them a bigger playing field.” where they please. Due to efforts by coalition forces to put in their work. The student’s bags were inspected and others According to Capt. Thomas Melton, commander of Troop The situation of dealing with women in security roles has up barricades to prevent vehicle-borne improvised explosive were skillfully searched. These women have become a great A, no problems were encountered in training, and the women always caused a measure of resentment between the local devices, suicide vests are being seen as an alternative. testament to the efforts the Iraqi people have accomplished to were very excited about the prospect of protecting their com- populace and the Coalition Forces. However ,for the Southern Recently, Feb. 2, two female suicide bombers killed over 70 secure their own freedom despite the best efforts by al-Qaida munity. Ghazaliyah Guardian Commander Shuja Naji Shaker, the in a Baghdad Market. to prevent it. In the past the Sons of Iraq, or Abna’a al-Iraq, have not see ROLE, pg. 23 In Memoriam We Shall Never Forget...

“The Lord is my Shep- herd, I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures; he leadeth me beside still waters. He restoreth my soul; he leadeth me in paths of righteousness SGT CONRAD ALVAREZ for his name sake. Yea STAFF SGT ROBERT J. WILSON ALPHA COMPANY though I walk through the ALPHA COMPANY 1-502 INFANTRY REGIMENT valley of the shadow of 1-502 INFANTRY BATTALION death, I will fear no evil for Thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table for me in the pres- ence of mine enemies; thou annointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life and CPL ALBERT BITTON I will dwell in the house of SPC MICHEAL B. MATLOCK HEADQUARTERS AND the Lord, forever,” ALPHA COMPANY HEADQUARTERS COMPANY Psalm 23 1-502 INFANTRY REGIMENT 1-502 INFANTRY REGIMENT

SPC MICHEAL E. PHILLIPS BRAVO COMPANY 1-502 INFANTRY REGIMENT