I MEF returns, takes charge in Al Anbar CPL. JON C. GUIBORD I Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward)

CAMP , - The Marine command that spearheaded combat opera- tions in Iraq in 2003 assumed responsibility for training Iraqi Security Forces in western Iraq during a transfer-of-authority ceremony, February 28, 2006. First Marine Expeditionary Force (For- ward) took charge of the Al Anbar Province from the North Carolina-based II Marine Ex- peditionary Force (Forward). The ceremony officially relieved the II MEF command of its Multi-National Force - West title and bestowed the California-based I MEF with the new job. Commanded by Maj. Gen. Richard C. Zilmer, I MEF (Forward) commanding general, MNF-W is composed Cpl. Jon C. Guibord of active and reserve Marine, Army, and Navy units from throughout the United States. Major Gen. Richard C. Zilmer, commanding general I Marine Expeditionary Force (For- ward), speaks to a crowd of guests at Camp Fallujah, Iraq, Feb. 28, 2005. The speech “I am here to tell you that I MEF is ready to was made minutes after unfurling the I MEF (Forward) colors and taking command of Multi- assume our position as part of this great force,” National Force -- West in the Al Anbar Province during a transfer of authority ceremony. said the Reading, Penn., native and graduate of Kutztown University, Penn. Army Gen. George W. Casey Jr., Multi-Na- “It is an honor to follow your lead,” Zilmer I MEF spent the past year preparing for its tional Force - Iraq commanding general, and said to Huck. “We have watched from afar for current deployment to Iraq by training in the Army Lt. Gen. Peter W. Chiarelli, Multi-Na- the last year...the great work (you and your Southern California coastal base Camp Pendle- tional Corps - Iraq commanding general. The team) have done. You have written new pages ton, Calif., and Marine Combined Air Ground unfurling of I MEF’s colors and battle stream- in the history of the .” Combat Center in 29 Palms, Calif., located in ers symbolized the transfer of authority. Throughout 2005, MNF-W while under II the Mojave Desert. During his brief comments, Zilmer noted MEF’s command, conducted major operations, Zilmer and Sgt. Maj. Thomas H. Howard, the accomplishments of II MEF (Forward) such as Steel Curtain in November, and pro- I MEF (Forward) sergeant major, unfurled and 2nd Marine Division commanding general vided security during the Iraqi national elec- the unit’s colors carried by an MNF-W color Maj. Gen. Richard A. Huck and his Marines tions in December 2005. guard, which included an Iraqi soldier, dur- and Sailors, who returned to the U.S. last ing the small courtyard ceremony attended by week. See TOA Page 9 Commander’s Message to Families Hello from the Al Anbar Province of a market based economy will place the future of Iraq. This is Major General Rick Zilmer, the Iraqi freedom squarely in the Iraqi people’s capa- Commanding General of I Marine Expedition- ble hands. We have a very important, yet difficult ary Force (Forward.) Over the past couple of mission. The Marines are extremely capable and weeks, Marines have been moving into theater I have no doubts that we will be successful. This and preparing to do their part in restoring morning marked the transfer of authority from II sovereignty to the nation of Iraq. Our force de- Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward) to I Marine ployed safely and we were warmly received by Expeditionary Force (Forward.) II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward.) From this date on, the men and women of I The weather is still cool and dry but the MEF (Fwd) will need your continued love and temperature is slowly rising. The Marines are support to guide them through the challenges and focused on their task. They are becoming fa- victories that will mark their time here. I ask for miliar with their areas of operation and getting your help in keeping their focus on the mission to know and understand their counterparts in and I thank you for your constant support. Please the Iraqi Army - who they will train and fight keep us in your thoughts and prayers and continue with over the course of the next year. to write, email, and MOTOMAIL. Our main mission is to develop the Iraqi Maj. Gen. Richard C. Zilmer The next update will come to you from Ser- Security Forces in the Al Anbar Province. Ac- geant Major Howard, the I MEF (Fwd) Sergeant complishment of this mission in coordination Commanding General Major. Until then, take care on the home front and with the development of the rule of law and MNF-W Semper Fidelis.

BRIEFS Need Legal Support? Tobacco cessation program AKO Individual Medical Readiness Applications for naturalization of a U.S. All personnel that are interested will (IMR) and Immunization Record citizen/ passport services/ powers of attend an orientation mtg on 29 Mar 06. On 4 January 2006, the MEDPROS Team attorney/ notary services/ tax issues/ Time and place TBD. Sign-up NLT 26 modified the AKO Medical Readiness wills/ family support issues/ separation Mar 06 at GAS front desk or call 3640- Alerts to include a link for Soldiers to view agreements/ divorce/ servicemembers civil 715. Personnel may also e-mail HMCS their Individual Medical Readiness (IMR) rights act/ USERRA guidance/ creditor, Tolosa, Renato for more information or and Immunization Record (DD Form debt collector issues/ consumer protection to sign-up. At the orientation, personnel 2766C). Soldiers who find incorrect or consultation or all other personal legal can choose a self-paced program with or blank data in their records can contact matters contact Legal Services Support without medication or choose to attend their nearest MEDPROS Data Entry Team – Iraq @ 3422-121 or email smoking cessation classes, also with or representative to have their information [email protected] without medication at the preference of the corrected/updated. member. 2 Aug. 19, 2005 The Eagle and The Crescent The Eagle and The Crescent Aug. 19, 2005 3 Chaplain’s Corner: Camp Fallujah

MWR events Dominoes: Thur. @2000 living in denial Chess Tournement Fri. @2030 I arrived in theater and hit the ground 5/10k fun run Sat.@0800 running, working 15 hours a day; but the Jazz night: Sun. @2130 truth is that underneath it all, I’m probably Board game night Tue . @2000 still in denial and probably will be for a few Backgammon Wed. @2000 more weeks. My wife and family are, too! I *Movie Night: Daily @ MWR facility 2000 expect soon to start feeling numb and a little For more information, contact aimless. Perhaps I’ll be a little lonely and a bit [email protected] disorganized. You see, I’m just following the emotional A message to emotional script! I can’t help it. I’m human. And so are you. All of us in Iraq need to face The Eagle & Crescent readers the fact that we have begun the emotional cycle The Eagle & Crescent is a publication made of deployment. The good news is, when you for the Marines in Iraq, by the Marines in Iraq of begin to feel emotionally disorganized, you’re the 1st Marine Expeditionary Force. We appreci- already in Stage three—a stage that will last ate your interest, prayers and patriotic support. through the first few weeks of deployment. You’ve already made it through stage one-- Semper Fidelis, anticipation of loss and stage two—detachment and withdrawal. Stage four begins when the BECOME A SUBSCRIBER: If you don’t receive The Eagle & The Crescent “So don’t be surprised, fellow directly, and would like to, please send an e-mail to [email protected]. humans, about everything Just put Subscribe in the subject line and we’ll going on in your heart and add you to our e-mail distribution list. head. The shock will pass Chaplain (CAPT USN) Bill Purdue I Marine Expeditionary Force (FWD) MNF-W Chaplain and we will thrive.” Commanding General, Maj. Gen. Richard C. Zilmer Chaplain (CAPT USN) Bill Perdue Sergeant Major, Sgt. Maj. Thomas H. Howard Our lives have certainly changed over the last few weeks, haven’t they? We kissed the Public Affairs Director...Lt. Col. Bryan F. Salas numbness wears off and you get stabilized into Deputy Director...... Maj. Riccoh T. Player family and Taco Bell goodbye, said farewell a routine. You feel self-confident and know Public Affairs Chief...... Master Sgt. John A. to our beverage of choice and “slipt the surly that you can survive. Cordero bonds of Earth” for a dusty and dangerous So don’t be surprised, fellow humans, about Media Officer...... Capt. Megan M. McClung mission half a world away. They say everything going on in your heart and head. Press Chief...... GySgt. Timothy A. Streaty confession is good for the soul, so here’s mine: The shock will pass and we will thrive. In Editor/ I’m in denial! I probably have been for about Combat Correspondent...Cpl. Jon C. Guibord the meantime, make friends, work hard, call two weeks before I departed. your family, email regularly. Do something My wife, Susan, could tell. I could, too. We Correspondents from throughout the military con- sacrificial for someone else today. Work on tribute to this publication. The views and opinions were about to separate for 12 months, but we your spiritual life by focusing on those things expressed are not necessarily those of the Depart- were acting as if life would never change. We that give you meaning and purpose. And ment of Defense. It is for information only and is not were in blissful denial. Yes, we checked off don’t forget, above all, to have faith. As considered directive in nature. everything on the predeployment list, but we sacred scripture declares, “God is our refuge avoided the painful reality that separation was and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. coming. chapel of hope Therefore, we will not fear….” (Psalm 46) service schedule prayer for marines Righteous God, you rule the nations. Guard Keep those who remain in camp safe, but also Friday- Jewish Sabbath Service - 1830 brave men and women who risk themselves in aware of the danger their comrades face each 1st & 3rd Friday battle for their country, and for the vision of day. Saturday-Catholic Confessions 1700 peace on earth you placed in their hearts. Give Keep from complacency both those who Catholic Vigil Mass 1800 them compassion for enemies who fight not for don’t see the constant danger, and those who Sunday- Catholic Mass 0800 a nation, but for a vision of a world that uses have seen it for so long they are dulled to it. Protestant Communion Service 0915 evil means and seeks oppressive goals. Keep Though they must be at war, let them live for Protestant Contemporary Service 1030 our sons and daughters from hate that hardens, peace, as eager to help the Iraqi people as they Gospel Service 1300 but equip them to do the job that must be done. are to have victory over terrorists. Lutheran Services 1830 While this prayer is offered for all who serve, Encourage them as they encourage one Monday - Friday remember especially those dear to us serving another, and never let hard duty or the horrors Catholic Confessions 1700 with the I Marine Expeditionary Force. Keep of war separate them from faith in you as Catholic Daily Mass 1800 those who go outside the wire safe and ready to (Blessed Sacrament Chapel) stand up for righteousness in evil surroundings. Creator. Sustainer and Savior. Amen. 2 Aug. 19, 2005 The Eagle and The Crescent The Eagle and The Crescent Aug. 19, 2005 3 Marines in Iraq have all sides covered CPL. WILLIAM SKELTON neck protectors are required at gear,” said Luman, assigned assigned to Company C. “The 1st Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment all times, in addition to ballistic to Headquarters and Service plates dangle low and get in the eye protection and fire-retardant Company. way a lot.” CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq gloves. Marines manning machine “It’s easy to take on and off Wishchmeyer explained that (Feb. 23, 2006) -- Marines guns in humvee turrets also wear and most importantly they protect Marine commanders owed it to walking the beat in Fallujah are ballistic protection for shoulders, your sides when before there was their Marines to use innovation now covered on all sides, thanks arms and legs. nothing there.” and all available means to protect to new armor and ballistic plates “Side SAPIs are designed to Marines recently demonstrated their forces. Insurgents in Iraq added to their vests. Still, the new protect a Marine’s sides where to Congress that with each added are constantly adapting their gear is getting mixed reviews. the normal flak jacket plates layer of protection, they sacrifice tactics, and gaps in the protective Marines with Regimental don’t cover,” said Maj. Bill mobility they desperately need equipment were specifically Combat Team 5 recently received Wischmeyer, the 39-year-old fighting in an urban environment. targeted. their side body armor plates, called battalion executive officer from Here, on the battlefield, those “Are they heavy? Yes,” he small-arms protective inserts, or San Diego. same questions still linger. added. “Do they make the vest SAPI. The added armor, made of Theplates are designed to “A normal flak jacket only heavier? Yes. Is there a lot of the same materials as the chest stop a bullet from penetrating has a pocket for the front and armor on that thing? Yes, but the and back plates, was generated and injuring Marines and sailors rear plates,” said Pfc. Caleb bottom line is we owe it to the after Marine Marines to provide what Corps officials ever gear we can to commissioned a protect them.” study and found Wishchmeyer some combat deaths explained that Marine might have been commanders owed prevented if the it to their Marines to ceramic armor plates use innovation and extended to the sides all available means to of the torso. protect their forces. The added armor has some Insurgents in Iraq are Marines singing its’ constantly adapting their praises and others tactics. grumbling. The “The enemy adapts added protection to our armor, so we con- is welcomed by stantly have to come up Marines who with better, more effi- expose themselves cient ways to protect our to gunfire and Marines,” Wischmeyer roadside improvised explosive devices. said. But the added “Are they heavy? weight, even at over Yes,” he added. “Do they just a couple pounds make the vest heavier? apiece, is causing “The bottom line is we some Marines to Cpl. William Skelton owe it to the Marines to wonder if the loss Lance Cpl. Colt J. Luman, 1st Battalion,1st Marine Regiment serving with Regimental Combat provide what ever gear of mobility is worth Team 5, holds up a pair of side small-arms protective inserts, SAPIs recently issued to improve, we can to protect them.” the protection. Marines assigned survivability. Still, some Marines harbor concerns about loss of mobility. to 1st Battalion, in firefights. Evidence exists of M. Medley,” a 19-year-old 1st Marine Regiment, serving Marines who were shot in their infantryman with Company C with RCT-5 near Fallujah, were chest SAPI plates, with nothing and Burlington, Colo. resident. among the first to receive their more than a bruise to show for it. “The new side SAPIs have to side SAPIs. They are mandatory Lance Cpl. Colt. J. Luman, a be snapped into the sides of the Cpl. William Skelton is a for each Marine to wear. Orders 22-year-old from Farmington, already heavy flak.” Combat Correspondent serving here are clear about personal N.M., said he’s a fan of the added Pfc. Xeeng Y. Lee, a 20-year- with 1st Battalion, 1st Marine protection. protection. He doesn’t think old infantryman from Syracuse, Regiment in the Al Anbar Marines leaving the wire wear it adds too much weight and N.Y., had his own concerns about Province. For information email chest and back SAPI plates, balances out well with the rest of the side SAPIs. him at SkeltonWB@gcemnf- along with the new side plates. the vest. “The gear is a lot heavier with wiraq.usmc.mil Groin protectors, collars and “They’re good pieces of the side plates on,” said Lee,

4 Aug. 19, 2005 The Eagle and the Crescent ‘Darkhorse’ pauses, remembers its fallen

CPL. MARK SIXBEY 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment

CAMP SMITTY, Iraq (Feb. 22, 2006) -- Marines of Company I, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, Regimental Combat Team 5 gathered here to remember two fallen men Monday, Feb. 20. Cpl. Ross A. Smith, a fire team leader, and Pfc. Javier Chavez Jr., a rifleman, both with 1st Squad, 2nd Platoon, Company I., were killed by hostile action Feb. 9 in the Al Anbar Province. So far, the company has lost three Marines. “There are no words I can say that will relieve the hurt that the Smith’s, Chavez’s and we feel., said Lt. Col. Patrick G. Looney, the 43-year-old battalion commander from Oceanside, Calif. “But what I can offer is that these warriors gave their lives doing what they chose to do. My sincerest condolences go out to the Smith and Chavez families for their great loss.” Portraits of Smith and Chavez rested Cpl. Mark Sixbey alongside their boots, rifles, identification Lance Cpl. Joshua B. Tallis, Company I, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, kneels in front tags and Kevlar helmets, before the U.S. and of the memorial of Cpl. Ross Smith and Pfc. Javier Chavez Jr., who were killed in action Marine Corps flags. The company stood in Feb. 9, 2006. The company held a memorial service at Camp Smitty, Iraq, Feb. 20. formation as their close friends and squad members read prayers and reflected on their friendships with the two men. Smith is survived by his mother and father in Detroit. Lance Cpl. Joshua B. Tallis, an infantryman with 2nd Platoon knew Chavez, from Fresno, Calif., was born Dec. 31, 1986 and recently Smith since they arrived together to their platoon. married Janie Chavez, 19. “You could always tell his presence, always loud, always happy,” “Those of us who knew Javier are better for having known him,” said said Tallis, 21, from Los Angeles. “His platoon is going to miss their Lance Cpl Pierce Ford, a 22-year-old infantryman Colorado Springs, brother.” Colo. He said it was Smith’s third deployment to Iraq. He was 21 years old. “Like Corporal Smith, he was an avid athlete, and an excellent “He was going to get out and take over his father’s business,” Tallis student,” Looney added. “He was also a loving husband, a son, and a said. brother.” Ford said Chavez always put his family first, going home to see them every chance he had. “He was dedicated to his family,” said Ford, 20. “He’d be the first to step up if somebody was being picked on. My prayers go out to his family. He’s in a better place now.” Ford, who knew Chavez since their days at the School of Infantry, said that Chavez planned to use his experience in the Marine Corps as a stepping-stone into a career in law enforcement. “We pretty much did everything together since we met,” Ford explained. “He cared about his family, and he was like a brother to me.” Pfc. Mack McSperitt, from 2nd Platoon knew Chavez since they were classmates in the 7th grade. “He’s a childhood friend,” said McSperitt, a 19-year-old from Hanford, Calif. “He knew what he wanted to do. He joined the Corps to become a better person, to learn honor, courage and commitment.” “He stood up for what he believed in,” he said. “I’m very sorry for the loss of your son. It’s hard, but he fought to the end. You should be proud.” Cpl. Mark Sixbey Lance Cpl Cody Turpen, an infantryman with 2nd Platoon, Company I, salutes the memorial of Cpl. Ross Smith and Pfc. Cpl. Mark Sixbey is a Combat Correspondent serving with 3rd Javier Chavez Jr., at a memorial service at Camp Smitty, Iraq, Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment in the Al Anbar Province. For Feb. 20. information email him at [email protected] AGE: 30 WHERE ARE YOU GOING ON VACATION WHEN HOMETOWN: Alachua, FL (near Gainesville) YOU REDEPLOY: Disney Cruise with my wife and MARITAL STATUS: Married, 10 years kids. KIDS: (2) Daughter – Marissa, 8 yrs old Son WORST PART ABOUT DEPLOYMENT: Leaving family – Patrick, 4 yrs old and friends MOS: 4612-Offset Lithographer, I MEF (FWD) WHAT DOES YOUR FAMILY THINK ABOUT YOUR Combat Camera Chief DEPLOYMENT: They support it 100%. UNIT/DUTY STATION: 1st Marine Division, Combat BEST & WORST MEMORY OF MARINE CORPS: Camera, IA to I MEF/ Camp Fallujah, Iraq “When I was first given my EGA for the garrison FAVORITE HANGOUT: Home, in the back yard cover for the Service Alphas two days before BBQ’ing graduating boot camp. Bad - I try to forget any HOBBIES: Golf of the bad memories. LAST SONG OR MOVIE DOWNLOADED: Kenny FAVORITE COMEDIAN: Any Redneck Comedy Chesney “ Be As You Are” and Pulp Fiction. I Hour guys, George Lopez or Kings of Comedy. need iTunes though so I can download new stuff FAVORITE DUTY STATION: 1st Marine Division, for my iPod. Camp Pendleton, Calif. LAST BOOK YOU READ: The Magnificent Bastards First stepped on the yellow footprints: Aug. 7th FAVORITE MRE: BBQ Pork with Rice or Chili Mac 1994. WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED DURING DEPLOYMENT: WHAT WILL YOU BE DOING IN 5 YEARS: Finalizing Other aspects of the Combat Camera field, such my retirement plans. as photo and video production ADVICE FOR OTHERS HERE: “Take it one day at a WHAT WILL YOU REMEMBER MOST: The song time and try to stay positive.” “Susie Q” by Credence Clearwater Revival Piece of equipment you can’t live without: blasting through the speakers on the flightline as Leatherman. we arrived at TQ. 6 Aug. 19, 2005 The Eagle and The Crescent The Eagle and The Crescent Aug. 19, 2005 7 Pendleton Marines work to hand over clean AO they want to leave no stone providing stability to the “Triad” Marine Regiment, said Burgess. CPL. ADAM C. SCHNELL 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment unturned in their quest to hunt area of Haqlaniyah, Barwanah and “It’s good that we do one more down insurgents. Haditha. sweep of this area before turning it KHAFFAJIYAH, Iraq (Feb. “The quiet places are where the Operation Minotaur focused on over,” said Lance Cpl. Lawrence 26, 2006) -- Marines in the insurgents feel safe to hide,” said Khaffajiyah and southern outlying A. Parkhill, a 20-year-old team Haditha Dam region continued Staff Sgt. Jacob M. Geary, platoon areas including the island to keep insurgents on their heels sergeant for Weapons Platoon, of Alus. The Marines “If we continue to operate in during another counterinsurgency Company I, 3rd Battalion, 1st went house-to-house operation here Feb. 26. Marine Regiment. Geary’s platoon looking for insurgents these areas, they will never The latest operation, dubbed spearheaded the operation. “If they and used metal detectors get a chance to execute “Minotaur,” was aimed at clearing (insurgents) are hiding here and to sweep the river bank more than nine kilometers of using it as a planning site, we want for weapons caches. [their] plans.” riverbank and several small to show them we will be around to “We just wanted 1st Lt. Jared W. Burgess villages south of Haqlaniyah – a disrupt their plans.” to throw something The Camp Pendleton, Calif.- different at them,” town along the Euphrates River in leader from Temecula, Calif. based Marines have spent almost said Geary, a Helmville, Mont., Al Anbar Province, northwest of While the Marines’ focus is six months in Iraq’s western native. “They see mounted troops, Baghdad. on disrupting insurgent activity Al Anbar Province conducting but it isn’t very often they see Although this is usually an and further training Iraqi soldiers, counter-insurgency operations and dismounted Marines go to their inactive area, the Marines said thoughts of home are beginning to homes and search surface. For Parkhill, his thoughts the area.” turn to riding his motorcycle in Approximately southern California. Like many of six weeks ago, the Marines, he is focused on the the Marines swept job at hand, but thinks more and through the area and more about the loved ones waiting found numerous for him and the hobbies he has weapons caches missed since arriving here nearly buried along six months ago. the river bank. “I miss the sunny weather in This prompted California and just cruising around the battalion to with my girlfriend on my bike,” continue to sweep said Parkhill. through this area, Even though the Marines are maintaining a nearing the end of their time vigilant presence to in Iraq, the battalion shows no remind insurgents signs of slowing down their hunt that there is no place for insurgents. They’ll continue to hide. actively seeking out anti-Iraqi “If we continue forces and paving a path for their to operate in these replacements’ success. areas, they will The battalion’s redeployment never get a chance to the U.S. is part of a regularly to execute [their] scheduled rotation of forces in plans,” said 1st Lt. Al Anbar. More than 25,000 Jared W. Burgess, Marine and sailors of Camp a platoon leader Pendleton, Calif.-based I Marine with the company’s Expeditionary Force are replacing Weapons Platoon. the Camp Lejeune, N.C.-based II During the next MEF. month or so, the battalion will be gradually replaced with another Marine Cpl. Adam C. Schnell is a infantry unit. The Combat Correspondent serving with 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Cpl. Adam C. Schnell Marines want to leave this once Regiment in western Iraq. Lance Cpl. Patrick D. Guild, a Oshkosh, Wis., native digs for a possible hidden insurgent-heavy For more information email weapons cache while Lance Cpl. Casey W. Beeman a Fort Worth, Texas area in good shape him at SchnellAC@gcemnf- native, assists with a metal detector. Both Marines, infantrymen with Company for the new unit, wiraq.usmc.mil I, 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, were looking for hidden weapons caches the Hawaii-based in Alus, Iraq, during Operation Minotaur Feb. 26, 2006. 3rd Battalion, 3rd 6 Aug. 19, 2005 The Eagle and The Crescent The Eagle and The Crescent Aug. 19, 2005 7 Marine survives gunshot, defeats attackers

shooting I got shot in the leg.” - was hit so I dragged him into the house and LANCE CPL. CHRISTOPHER J. Despite the wound, Matter was able to see began performing first aid on him. After doing ZAHN his grenade launched against the attackers had that I grabbed Matter and treated his variou 2nd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment effect. s injuries.” ”It worked though,” he said. “Doing that Matter’s cool head continued to prevail FALLUJAH, Iraq (Feb. 23, 2006) -- For some gave the guys time to get back inside. Once we amongst the confusion and lingering threats. Marines, strenuous hours of training is simply had everybody back inside we started to lay ”At some point we all noticed that Copley mind over matter. In combat, one Marine down some heavy suppressive fire to gain fire had gotten shot in the back of the leg and was proved its Matter over mind. superiority. I moved to take another 203 shot bleeding pretty bad,” Matter said. “We didn’t Sgt. John T. Matter, a 26-year-old squad and I got shot again, this time in the neck. know where the bullet had gone after it hit leader from Milwaukee, Wis., survived a blast ”The bullets in his leg and neck didn’t him. I knew that we had to move Copley to the from an improvised explosive device and two deter Matter at all. He continued to provide medevac vehicles that had arrived.” separate gunshot wounds to run a wounded suppressing fire along with the second fire team Roberts explained he tried to pull Copley’s Marine to safety and lead his Marines out of led by Cpl. Joshua J. Frazier, 23-year-old from trousers back up before they rushed him to the kill zone here Dec. 12. Spotsylvania, Va. Frazier admitted he was in a the waiting vehicles, but he couldn’t lift up Recently, he and the Marines he fought sense of awe of Matter, even as rounds zipped Copley’s body weight. Matter stepped in, alongside spoke of the day Matter put it in his past and Marines fought to repel their attackers. ignoring his own wounds and told him to throw mind he wouldn’t die. Marines from Company ”It was a relief to see him still going,” Copley over his shoulders. E, 2nd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, Frazier said. “I saw him get shot in the leg but ”Instead of having a humvee pull up in front serving with Regimental Combat Team 8, were he stayed on his feet and stayed in the fight. of the building and have them at greater risk performing a reconnaissance patrol in Fallujah ”Once everyone was back in the house the of being shot, I picked Copley up over my to find a patrol base where they could support squad regrouped and assessed casualties. shoulders and ran with him to the medevac the upcoming elections. “I was behind Sgt. Matter when the IED vehicles,” Matter said. “I figured I had a better ”We arrived at an abandoned hospital and went off,” said 1st Lt. James G. King, the chance because I was a smaller target.” Sgt. Matter and I examined the building,” 26-year-old company executive officer from Matter rejoined his squad to find... explained 2nd Lt. Jeffery M. Frederick, a 24- Washington D.C. “I got knocked down, saw year-old from Detroit who is Matter’s platoon one guy firing at us and took him down. I saw commander. “We determined that it would not See Wounded, Page 9 one Marine - Lance Cpl. Michael D. Copley be a good choice ... we were ready to leave the building. I told Sgt. Matter to start pushing his guys outside.” Matter told his first fire team, led by Lance Cpl. Jeffrey M. Roberts, a 20-year-old from Destin, Fla., to move out of the building. Just as Roberts moved his team of Marines, one pointed out five teenagers pointing in their direction and running away. “He also reported that all the shops on the street had closed,” Roberts recalled. “I stepped outside and pointed the kids out to Sgt. Matter who was right behind me. ”It was then an improvised explosive device blew up just 15 feet away. Shrapnel and dust filled the air. Two of the Marines were immediately struck by fragments of the bomb, Matter in the face, and Lance Cpl. John W. Conlee in the face and upper thighs. The situation rapidly grew worse. Gunfire poured in through the smoke. ”Right after the explosion we started getting hosed down with automatic weapons fire from across the street,” Matter explained. “I went back inside to get a better grasp on the situation. The first fire team was pinned down by fire and couldn’t get back inside.” With Marines trapped outside, Matter knew Lance Cpl. Christopher J. Zahn he had to do something. He looked to his M- Sgt. John T. Matter, a 26-year-old squad leader from Milwaukee, Wis., looks through his 203 grenade launcher. sights during a patrol Feb. 23. He is a squad leader with Company E, 2nd Battalion, 6th “I stepped out to shoot a round from my M- Marine Regiment currently deployed to Fallujah, Iraq, with Regimental Combat Team 5. 203 at the building where the fire was coming On the morning of Dec. 12, Matter was engaged by insurgents in a firefight that left him from,” he said. “I got the round off but as I was wounded, but still standing. 8 Aug. 19, 2005 The Eagle and The Crescent The Eagle and The Crescent Aug. 19, 2005 9 Wounded, from Page 8 reinforcements arrived. A quick-reaction force I could coordinate our medevac and QRF. He therapy. The firefight remains vivid in the of Combined Anti-Armor Team and Fleet Anti- kept me updated throughout the fight. Without Marines’ minds, and is a constant reminder that Terrorism Security Team joined in the fight. his leadership that day things could have been all the work invested in training is well worth Matter was ready to fight his way out with his a lot worse.” it. Marines until his first sergeant ordered him to Matter was more humble and saved his “Without even realizing it we all relied on the medevac vehicles. praise for his squad. our training,” Roberts said. “We were doing “I’ll be honest, at that point I was hurting “Those guys did not hesitate at all,” he said. combat reloads, bounding maneuvers and and while I still could have fought, I needed “They reacted exactly the way they had been pointing out targets to each other.” medical treatment pretty bad myself,” he said. trained and did what they had to do. The Frederick credited Matter’s calm and stoic insurgents started the fight and we definitely reactions throughout the firefight to keeping the finished it.” Lance Cpl. Zahn is a Combat Marines alive. Two months later, Matter has recovered Correspondent serving with 2nd Battalion, “He was doing exactly what was expected,” from his wounds, as has Lance Cpl. Conlee. 6th Marine Regiment in the Al Anbar Frederick said. Lance Cpl. Copley has returned to the United Province. For more information email him at “He took care of all the small details so that States and is undergoing extensive physical [email protected] Soldiers assist Marines with defensive operations of explosives, and have been one of the leading causes of casualties CPL. DANIEL J. REDDING 1st Marine Logistics Group for troops in Iraq. While on this patrol a suspicious mound of dirt drew the soldiers” attention - a possible IED. After close inspection of the CAMP TAQADDUM, Iraq (Mar. 12, 2006) -- Soldiers from 2nd surrounding area with no results, it was decided that the mound of dirt Battalion, 130th Infantry Regiment performed a multi-faceted mission was just that - a mount of dirt. near Camp Taqaddum, Iraq, March 12, as they carried out weapons Later in the day, after they conducted the route clearing and terrain cache sweeps, investigated possible improvised explosive devices and association mission, the soldiers stopped in two local towns to pass out conducted route clearance operations during the daylong operation. stuffed animals, candy and toothbrushes to the Iraqi children. Although Along the way, the Illinois-based National Guard unit took time to their primary mission was defensive patrols against the insurgency, the interact with the locals, stopping in local villages around the base. soldiers frequently interacted with the Iraqis, lightening the mood of The soldiers” primary mission is to provide base security for the their operations. Marines and sailors of the forward-deployed 1st Marine Logistics Group. The soldiers were grateful it wasn”t business as usual and could The 4,200 joint-service members of 1st MLG are part of the 25,000 do something a little light hearted. Whether it”s handing out candy or Marines, airmen, soldiers and sailors of the 1st Marine Expeditionary searching for IEDs, the soldiers are proud of what they are doing in Iraq, Force”s forward deployed element. said Sgt. 1st Class Timothy J. Atteberry, platoon sergeant. The 1st MLG”s mission is “The individual, personal to provide sustained logistics satisfaction of helping another support to I MEF and Iraqi human being really comes from security forces operating in these kinds of humanitarian-aid the Al Anbar province of Iraq. type missions,” said Atteberry, Marines with 1st MLG will also a 38-year-old native of support the development of the Champagne, Ill. Iraqi Security Forces’ logistic While the day ended with capabilities in order to enable no weapons caches or IEDs independent ISF led counter discovered, it was ultimately insurgency operations. a success for the soldiers, said During their mission, the Spec. Sean M. Seahausen, a 30- soldiers were acquainting year-old native of Godfrey, Ill. themselves with the routes in “As long as everybody gets their newly assigned area to back inside the wire safe (and) ensure the safety of the roads for we put a few smiles on the faces future convoys, said Staff Sgt. around here... it’s definitely a Thomas D. Reif, convoy patrol good day,” said Seahausen. leader and 37-year-old native of Cpl. Daniel J. Redding Raymond, Ill. Cpl. Daniel Redding is To clear a route for future Local Iraqi children become excited as soldiers hand out candy, a Combat Correspondent convoys the soldiers scan the roads stuffed animals and other supplies in a village near Camp Taqaddum, serving with the 1st Marine Iraq, March 12th, 2006. The soldiers from 2nd Battalion, 130th for possible signs of makeshift Logistics Group in the Al Infantry Regiment, performed a multi-faceted mission during a bombs called improvised explosive Anbar Province, Iraq. For day-long operation as they carried out weapons cache sweeps, more information email him devices. investigated possible improvised explosive devices and conducted The IEDs are manufactured in at Daniel.Redding@cssemnf- a variety of ways with a variety route clearance operations. wiraq.usmc.mil 8 Aug. 19, 2005 The Eagle and The Crescent The Eagle and The Crescent Aug. 19, 2005 9 Father, Son united at Taqaddum LANCE CPL. STEPHEN J. HOLT 1st Marine Logistics Group (FWD)

CAMP TAQADDUM, Iraq - For men and women in the U.S. military, good-byes are one of the hardest parts of deploying to foreign lands, as service members must bid farewell to loved ones. However, for one father and his son, a deployment to Iraq didn’t mean good-bye, but rather a fortunate crossing of their paths. For nearly a month, Chief Petty Officer Nestor A. Lazaga, 53, and his 22 year- old son, Petty Officer 3rd Class Mark G. Lazaga, have had the unique experience of spending time together in a combat zone while stationed together here. The younger Lazaga, a hospital corpsman assigned to Marine Aircraft Group 39, Ma- rine Wing Support Squadron 372 at Camp Taqaddum, is preparing to return to Camp Pendleton, Calif., after a seven-month de- ployment as his father begins his own seven Lance Cpl. Stephen J. Holt months in Iraq. During Mark’s deployment his job had Chief Petty Oficer Nestor Lazaga, 53, and his son, Petty Officer 3rd Class Mark Lazaga, 22, him doing everything from the daily sick stand side by side at Camp Taqaddum, Iraq. Nestor will fill the role of leading chief petty offi- calls, to providing medical support on cer of the medical aid station for Brigade Service Support Group 1, the headquarters element convoys and major construction projects in of the 1st Marine Logistics Group. case any Marine was hurt while out on such missions. ter of their family. said Mark. Mark’s motivation to join the Navy and “It’s not easy having to take care of two kids As Mark’s deployment to Iraq nears an medical field is due in large part to his father. and worry about two men in Iraq,” said Mark. end, he plans on supporting his dad by taking The senior Lazaga is the leading chief petty “We’re in the middle of a war, and (my mother, on some of the responsibilities his father had officer of the medical aid station for Brigade Jackie) has to work at the same time. She’s a shouldered back home. Service Support Group-1, the headquarters ele- great mother.” “I’ll maintain the house and help my mom ment of the 1st Marine Logistics Group here. Nestor couldn’t agree more with his son. by driving my brother and sisters places,” Mark “My dad has been a huge inspiration to me. She is proud to support us, but it’s also said. “I’ll pretty much be the man of the house I saw what opportuni- painful, he said. My family is very proud of while my dad is away.” ties the Navy offered her because she has a Although it will be hard for Nestor to remain my father and I wanted “Our relations will be stronger strong heart and is so in Iraq while his son goes home, one message to capitalize on them as patient. remains clear. well,” said Mark. because we’ve experienced The deployment “The mission is first, however I will miss my Nestor’s influence the same thing. I love my son has not only given son,” Nestor said. “Having two family mem- the family faith and bers in a deployment is hard to do, but we must didn’t stop there. He and (we) can relate to one helped his son sort out strength, but has also do our mission.” how to best capitalize another.” been a bonding experi- Although they will be separated by thou- ence for the deployed sands of miles as one generation prepares to on the opportunities Chief Petty Officer Nester A. Lazaga available in the Navy, members of the leave and another settles in, the Lazagas can and help figure out how Lazaga family. take pride and solace in knowing their service Mark could best serve “Our relationship has made their family stronger. his nation. will be stronger because we’ve experienced the “I’ve always been interested in the medical same thing. I love my son and (we) can relate field. My father’s career as a medical profes- to one another better,” said Nestor. sional in the Navy showed me there were For Mark, the experience brought him closer Lance Cpl. Steven Holt is a Combat opportunities in this field. I didn’t have any to his father through a better understanding of Correspondent serving with the I Marine second thoughts,” Mark said. his father’s previous deployments. Logistics Group in the Al Anbar Prov- For Nestor and Mark, their journeys in Iraq “As a child I never quite understood deploy- ince. For more information email him at could not have been possible without support ments, but now that I’ve been through what [email protected] by the rest of the family back in the United he’s (Nestor) been through I’ve been better States, especially Jackie, the woman at the cen- able to relate to him and his past experiences,”

10 Aug. 19, 2005 The Eagle and The Crescent The Eagle and The Crescent Aug. 19, 2005 11 Warriors’ Words Storm veteran. TOA, from Page 1 Zilmer also addressed Iraqi Security Force CLB-5 was relieved by CLB-8 at a change commanders in the audience. of command ceremony at Camp Fallujah, This is the third time I MEF has deployed in “I look forward to the great association that Iraq March 12, 2006. Before the Marines we will develop over the next couple months as support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Through- return to Camp Lejuene, N.C., they offered we collectively work to make our forces much some advice for those just arriving in out the two previous deployments, I MEF was stronger and win this important conflict.” support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Here crucial in bringing stabilization to the western is what a few of the Marines had to say... province of Al Anbar. Zilmer emphasized the difference of this Cpl. Jon Guibord is a Combat year’s mission. “Keep faith that Correspondent serving with the I Marine “Our mission here first and foremost is to one day you are Expeditionary Force in the Al Anbar develop the capabilities of the Iraqi security going to go home Province. For more information email him at forces to allow them to win this counter-in- [email protected] and (you will) see surgency in Iraq,” said the Operation Desert your family.”

Cpl. Scott P. Beaudry Pendleton- based Marines Take over support role in Fallujah CLB 8 transportation routes, and providing supplies 2nd Marine Division CPL. LYNN MURILLO I Marine Expeditionary Force to forward deployed combat units in their area of operations. “Keep up with CAMP FALLUJAH, Iraq – Providing “We are here to help the RCT get the Iraqi what is going direct combat support to Marines in the Security Forces up to speed,” said Lt. Col. on in the area. Fallujah area is a mission Combat Logistics Randy J. Lawson, commanding officer, CLB It is constantly Battalion 5, 1st Marine Logistics Group 5. “We would like to improve on the things changing” (FWD) took responsibility of in a transfer of that CLB 8 has done.” authority ceremony here, March 12, 2006. The Marines of CLB 5 will be deployed to the area for the next seven months, while Cpl. Joshua R. Clark The unit assumes this role as their Camp CLB 8 Lejeune, North Carolina-based counterparts Multi-National Forces-West continues to aid 2nd Marine Division from CLB 8 head home after a seven- in the rebuilding of the Iraqi Security Forces. month stint providing logistical support for Regimental Combat Team 8. Delivering supplies such as food, water, “Stay focused on Cpl. Lynn Murillo is a Combat and ammunition were daily missions for the Correspondent serving with the I Marine the job at hand.” unit. Expeditionary Force in the Al Anbar During the elections here in December, Province. For more information email her at CLB 8 was part of Operation Liberty Express, [email protected] Lance. Cpl. Robert and delivered election supplies and provided W. Haws security in some CLB 8 of the more 2nd Marine Division dangerous parts of Fallujah. “(Junior Marines) Combat Trust your Logistics leadership. We Battalion 5, made know what we are up primarily of Marines of doing.” the 1st Marine Logistic Group Cpl. Chris C. Conteras from Camp CLB 8 Pendleton, Calif., 2nd Marine Division will serve in direct support “Pay attention to of Regimental detail. It’s the little Combat Team things that count, 5 and perform and know your jobs missions like and don’t be afraid building and Cpl. Lynn Murillo to ask questions.” fortifying The Marines of Combat Logistics Group gear up to provide logistical Sgt. Joseph S. Gray bases, repairing support to Regimental Combat Team 5 as they take the reigns from CLB 8 and clearing CLB 8 as they return home at a transfer of authority ceremony here nd 2 Marine Division roads along March 12, 2006. 10 Aug. 19, 2005 The Eagle and The Crescent The Eagle and The Crescent Aug. 19, 2005 11